Cancer Dictionary

Anaplastic thyroid cancer is a rare, aggressive type of thyroid cancer characterized by uncontrolled growth of cells in the thyroid, a gland located at the base of the neck. This cancer often grows quickly and spreads to other parts of the body, making it difficult to treat. Despite its severity, it accounts for only about 1-2% of all thyroid cancers.

Epidermoid carcinoma, also known as squamous cell carcinoma, is a type of cancer that primarily originates from the squamous cells found in the skin or the mucous membranes. It's commonly seen on sun-exposed areas like face and hands but can occur in other body parts. It often appears as a scaly, crusty, or warty growth or a non-healing sore. Regular medical checkups are essential for early detection and treatment.

Eyelid cancer refers to a variety of malignancies that affect the eyelid. These are usually skin cancers, which develop from cells lining the eyelid. Its common types include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The condition may cause symptoms like a persistent lump, red eye, or irritation. Diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as vision loss.

Fibrosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates from fibrous tissue, typically affecting the legs, arms, or trunk. Characterized by the rapid growth of spindle-shaped cells, it is most common in middle-aged adults. With early detection and treatment - often a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy - the prognosis can be improved.

Leukemia is a group of blood cancer types that primarily affect the bone marrow and white blood cells. It occurs when the body's bone marrow produces an excessive number of abnormal white blood cells, inhibiting the production of red blood cells and platelets, important for proper bodily function. This interferes with the body's ability to fight infections, clot blood, and transport oxygen.

Renal cancer, also known as kidney cancer, is a disease characterized by the abnormal and uncontrollable growth of cells in the kidneys, vital organs that filter waste from the blood. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, back pain, and fatigue. Late detection or diagnosis could lead to the disease spreading to other organs. Treatment varies depending on the stage and may include surgery, radiation, or targeted therapy.

"Squamous cell carcinoma" is a prevalent type of skin cancer that originates from squamous cells. These cells form the outer layer of the skin's epidermis. The condition is commonly caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It often exhibits as a firm, red nodule, or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusty surface. Though primarily appearing on sun-exposed areas, it can occur anywhere on the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital in preventing its spread.

Thyroid cancer is a type of malignancy that begins in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ at the base of the throat responsible for hormone production. Symptoms often include a lump in the neck, voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight changes. Treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer but can include surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, hormonal therapy, and chemotherapy. Early detection allows for a high survival rate.

Kaposi's sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that causes multiple lesions to form in the skin, oral cavity, lymph nodes, and internal organs. Often associated with individuals having a compromised immune system, such as HIV/AIDS patients, it's triggered by human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). Both cutaneous (skin) and visceral (internal organ) forms exist, showcasing symptoms like reddish or purplish patches, nodules, or plaques.

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It begins in the milk ducts and spreads to surrounding breast tissue. If undetected or untreated, it can also metastasize to other parts of the body, escalating to a potentially life-threatening condition. It can affect both men and women.