Cancer Dictionary

Basal cells are a type of cell found at the bottom layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. These cells are responsible for skin regeneration, producing new skin cells and pushing older cells upward. Abnormal growth of basal cells can lead to basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer.

"Benign" refers to a condition, tumor, or growth that is not harmful in effect and not malignant. It is non-cancerous and does not spread to other parts of the body. It denotes a mild form or consequence that does not typically become life-threatening or seriously damaging. In healthcare, benign is often associated with a positive prognosis.

Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (Beta HCG) is a hormone produced by cells that are associated with pregnancy. It's usually detected in blood tests or urine tests to confirm pregnancy or as part of a screening test for certain birth defects. It can also be used in medical diagnostics to detect some cancers.

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth or mass of cells within the brain. These tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can originate from the brain tissue itself or from other parts of the body, spreading to the brain. The presence of a brain tumor can disrupt normal brain function by compressing surrounding structures, causing neurological symptoms, and potentially leading to serious health issues. Diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors involve various medical interventions, such as imaging studies, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the type, location, and characteristics of the tumor.