Cancer Dictionary

Cancer Stage (I, II, III, IV) refers to the extent of cancer spread in the body, determined by the size and location of the tumor, lymph node involvement, and whether the disease has metastasized. Stage I usually indicates a small tumor confined to the origin site. Stage II and III show larger tumors or greater spread to nearby tissues and nodes. Stage IV symbolizes advanced cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body.

Carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in cells making up the skin or the tissue lining organs, such as the liver or kidneys. Unlike sarcomas, carcinomas originate in epithelial cells, including those in glandular tissues. These cancers can affect many parts of the body, often leading to specific symptoms based on their location and stage. Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP) is a rare disease where cancer cells are found in the body but the place the cancer began, known as the primary site, cannot be determined. Often, the cancer is already advanced by the time it's diagnosed. Early detection and accurate diagnosis of the primary site can aid in targeted treatment.

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that enables a doctor, usually a gastroenterologist, to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). It involves inserting a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) into the rectum. This tube has a small video camera on the end, which sends images to a display monitor allowing for the detection of abnormalities or early signs of cancer.

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine in the digestive system. It typically starts as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps that can, over time, develop into cancers. Early detection through routine screenings can help prevent the progression of colorectal cancer.

A "Complete response" in a healthcare context typically refers to the total disappearance of all detectable signs and symptoms of disease, often as a result of treatment. It indicates a positive outcome where the individual shows no further evidence of the illness. However, it doesn't guarantee that the disease is permanently cured. It's an important effect reported in clinical trials and cancer treatment.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) refers to a group of various malignant cancers that develop in the lymph system, which is part of the body's immune system. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, NHL types are identified by various unique genetic marker abnormalities. These cancers can originate anywhere in the body and spread to any tissue or organ. It exhibits diverse symptoms and can proceed at varying rates, depending on the type.

Oral cancer refers to any cancerous tissue growth located in the mouth. It may arise as a primary lesion originating in any of the oral tissues, by metastasis from a distant site of origin, or by extension from a neighboring anatomic structure, such as the nasal cavity or the maxillary sinus. Early detection significantly increases the chances of a successful treatment.

Computed tomography (CT) is a medical imaging technique used to visualize internal structures of the body in detail. It combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images, or slices, of bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues. CT provides more detailed information than standard X-rays.

"Cribriform" is a term used in anatomy and histology, referring to a structure that appears perforated or sieve-like. The term is frequently used to describe a structural pattern characterized by numerous round, small openings - resembling a sieve. This term is often mentioned with the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone in the skull or in pathological processes like cribriform carcinoma.

Cytology is a branch of biology that deals with the study of cells - their structures, functions, and behavior. It is crucial in understanding diseases at a cellular level, forming the foundation for medical practices such as cancer detection through the study of cell samples.