Cancer Dictionary

An endoscope is a medical instrument used for visual examination of internal body structures that are not visible to the naked eye. It comprises a flexible or rigid tube fitted with lens systems and a light source, allowing doctors to diagnose, monitor and surgically treat various conditions. It's regularly used to examine organs such as the stomach, colon, or lungs.

An erythrocyte, also known as a red blood cell, plays a fundamental role in the body's circulatory system by transporting oxygen from the lungs to body tissues. These biconcave-shaped cells, packed with hemoglobin, allow them to bind with and carry oxygen and carbon dioxide. They lack nuclei, making more room for hemoglobin. Erythrocytes, a vital component of blood, give it a characteristic red color.

The "Europe Beating Cancer Plan" is a strategic initiative by the European Union aiming to facilitate cooperation among Member States, optimizing resources to effectively prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. It accentuates the importance of research, quality of care, innovation, and reducing inequalities in tackling cancer across the region.

Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) is a treatment approach primarily used for prostate cancer. It works by reducing or blocking the production or action of androgens, male sex hormones like testosterone, which can promote the growth of cancer cells. ADT can be administered through surgery, medications, or hormone therapy and is effective in slowing down or stopping cancer progression.

Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells developing from a single parent cell. This is a fundamental process for growth, development, and repair in multi-cellular organisms. In essence, mitosis ensures each new cell has the same DNA as the original.

"Receptor status" refers to the presence or absence of particular proteins (receptors) on the surface of cancer cells. These receptors influence how the cancer behaves and responds to treatment. They are typically identified in laboratory tests, helping doctors guide the most effective treatment. Common examples include hormone receptors in breast cancer and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 in certain types of cancers.

Apoptosis is a programmed cell death mechanism in the body, operating as a natural process of destructing old, faulty, or harmful cells. It's crucial for maintaining the balance in various bodily functions, from embryonic development to adult homeostasis. It's often subject to research in disease contexts, notably cancer, where apoptosis regulation fails.

A growth factor is a naturally occurring substance, often a protein, that plays a crucial role in stimulating cellular growth, proliferation, and differentiation. They are essential for regulating various cellular processes and maintaining the health and vitality of the body. Growth factors specifically function by binding to receptors on the cell surface, triggering cellular changes.