Cancer Dictionary

DNA, short for Deoxyribonucleic Acid, is a vital molecule found in all living organisms. It contains the unique genetic code that determines the traits of a living being. Structured in a double helix shape, DNA contains pairs of nucleotides, which form genes, the basic units of heredity.

"Hormone Receptor Status" refers to a clinical parameter determined in patients with certain types of cancers. It reveals whether the patient's cancer cells express specific proteins (hormone receptors) like estrogen and progesterone, signifying their dependency on these hormones for growth. This information influences the selection of optimal therapeutic strategies, informing decisions on hormone therapy use.

CA 19-9, or Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9, is a tumor marker primarily used to monitor treatment response and disease recurrence in pancreatic cancer patients. It can also be elevated in other gastrointestinal cancers and conditions such as cirrhosis and pancreatitis. It's not recommended for cancer screening in asymptomatic individuals due to non-specific findings.

A primary tumor is the original growth of cancer cells that initially forms in the body. It is typically the first indication or onset of cancer within a specific organ or tissue. The primary tumor can metastasize, spreading to different body parts, resulting in secondary tumors. Treatments often target the primary tumor first to stop further spread of cancer.

A surgical oncologist is a specialist in the field of oncology, responsible for the surgical removal of tumors and cancerous tissues. They work as part of a multidisciplinary team, providing surgical interventions, performing biopsies, and contributing to treatment planning for cancer patients. Their expertise lies in cancer surgery and understanding tumor biology.

Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, primarily responsible for stimulating milk production after childbirth. Also, it plays a role in fertility by inhibiting follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Elevated levels can cause reproductive problems in both men and women.

Bone metastasis refers to the condition wherein cancer cells from the primary site (like breast, lung, or prostate) spread to the bones. This is a common occurrence in advanced stages of cancer, causing pain, fractures and other complications. The occurrence of bone metastasis often indicates a poorer prognosis for cancer patients.

Oncogenes are genes that can potentially cause cancer. When they are normal, they help to regulate cell growth and division. However, when they are altered or mutated, they can lead to abnormal cell growth and proliferation, eventually fostering the development of cancer.