Cancer Dictionary

Immunoglobulin refers to any class of proteins, produced by the immune system, that function as antibodies in the response to an invasion by foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses. They play a crucial role in identifying and neutralizing these pathogens, enhancing immune responses.

Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve a successful pregnancy after a 12-month period of appropriately timed, unprotected intercourse. It is well established that it can result from various cancer treatments. Patients who received alkylating agents, cisplatin, and other heavy metal-containing chemotherapy are at risk. Radiation therapy to the hypothalamus/pituitary axis, ovaries, or testes has the potential to significantly increase this risk. One’s own fertility status can be checked via fertility tests but there is no absolute way to test for future fertility potential in either cancer survivors or the general population. Ovarian reserve tests only provide indirect estimates and do not predict natural fertility potential in regularly ovulating women, and likewise, semen analysis cannot absolutely predict sterility in males.

Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the glandular cells, which are found in various organs of the body. These cells secrete mucus, digestive enzymes, or hormones, among other substances. Adenocarcinomas can occur in different parts of the body, most commonly in the lungs, colon, prostate, and breasts. It is a malignant tumor and treatment varies depending on the location and stage of the disease.

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.

Aneuploidy refers to an abnormality in the chromosome number in a cell, where there's either an excess or a deficiency of one or multiple chromosomes. This variation from the normal chromosome number (diploid) often leads to various genetic disorders. The most common example is Down syndrome, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are targeted cancer therapeutics that combine an antibody specific to a tumor-associated antigen with a cytotoxic drug designed to kill cancer cells. They allow precise drug delivery, reducing damage to healthy tissues and potentially improving treatment effectiveness and reducing side effects.

Antimetabolites are a class of drugs that inhibit the function of natural metabolites, vital substances for cellular processes, leading to cell destruction. Commonly used in chemotherapy, these drugs target rapidly dividing cancer cells, slowing or stopping their growth. They mimic natural substances, interfering with DNA synthesis, which hinders cell replication.

An "Aromatase Inhibitor" is a class of drugs used in the treatment of breast cancer and ovarian cancer in postmenopausal women. These drugs work by blocking the enzyme aromatase, which the body utilizes to produce estrogen, a hormone that can stimulate the growth of certain types of cancer cells. Therefore, by reducing estrogen levels, these inhibitors can slow or halt the growth of cancers.

"B-cell" refers to a type of white blood cell that plays a pivotal role in the immune system. B-cells can mature into cells that produce antibodies, specialized proteins that help fight infections, viruses and diseases. They also create immune memory, enabling the immune system to respond more efficiently to future exposures to the same pathogens.

A carcinogen refers to any substance, radionuclide, or radiation that promotes carcinogenesis, the formation of cancer. It works by altering the cellular metabolism or damaging DNA directly in cells, which in turn can induce the development of cancerous growths. Hence, exposure to carcinogens increases cancer risk. Examples include tobacco smoke, asbestos, and certain chemicals.

A clinical trial is a scientific research process involving volunteers that tests the efficacy and safety of new medical treatments, drugs, and prevention strategies. It's a part of biomedical research designed to add to the medical knowledge base. The trials are usually carried out in successive phases, each with different objectives and testing different variant of the treatment.

"Cross-border healthcare" refers to a phenomenon wherein individuals seek medical care beyond their home country's borders. This often occurs due to cost differences, availability of advanced treatments, shorter waiting periods, or quality of care considerations. It incorporates elements of healthcare policy, patient rights, international laws, and healthcare quality standards. It's a key component of the global healthcare system.

A PET Scan or Positron Emission Tomography is a diagnostic imaging test used in medicine. It uses a radioactive substance known as a tracer to look for disease or abnormalities in the body. PET scans provide detailed 3-dimensional images, mostly used for detecting cancer, heart abnormalities and brain disorders. This scan is highly effective in revealing or evaluating several conditions as it shows how organs and tissues are functioning.

Ductal carcinoma refers to a common type of breast cancer that begins in the cells lining the milk ducts, which act as transport channels from the lobules, where milk is made, to the nipple. It can remain within the ducts as a non-invasive cancer (ductal carcinoma in situ) or it can spread beyond the ducts into the breast tissue (invasive ductal carcinoma).

EU4H, or European Union for Health, refers to the collective health initiatives, policies, and regulations managed by the European Union. It encompasses a diverse range of topics, such as public health, health education, disease prevention, and healthcare services across European nations to foster better health outcomes for its inhabitants.

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.

Epithelial cells are a type of cell that lines the outer surfaces of organs and blood vessels throughout the body, as well as the inner surfaces of cavities in many internal organs. They serve as a barrier between the inside and outside of your body and have specialized functions including secretion, selective absorption, protection, transcellular transport and detection of sensation.

The estrogen receptor (ER) is a protein within cells that binds to the estrogen hormone. There are two types: ER-alpha and ER-beta. Upon binding, these receptors can alter gene expression, influencing cell growth and differentiation. They play significant roles in reproductive and non-reproductive systems, and can be involved in certain diseases, including breast cancer.

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.

Hormone therapy refers to the medical use of hormones, either natural or synthetic, to treat certain conditions, such as menopause symptoms, certain cancers, or hormonal imbalances. This procedure impacts the body's endocrine system, which controls numerous bodily functions with hormones. It can come in multiple forms, including pills, patches, creams, or injections. It's essential, however, to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting the therapy.

Immunotherapy is a type of medical treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight diseases, including cancer. This can be done in several ways, including stimulating the immune system to work harder, providing it with components like man-made immune system proteins, or training it to specifically attack cancer cells.

Intravenous (IV) refers to a method of delivering medications, fluids, or nutrients directly into a person's bloodstream through a vein, commonly via a needle or tube. It ensures rapid action and precise control over the amount of substance administered. Often used in hospitals or medical facilities for treatments, rehydration, or during surgeries.

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.

A Microarray is a laboratory tool used to detect the expression of thousands of genes simultaneously. It's a two-dimensional grid where probes (DNA or RNA fragments) are attached. By analyzing the way a sample interacts with these probes, scientists can measure the expression levels of massive quantities of genes, making it a crucial tool in genomics research.

Palliative care refers to specialized medical care that focuses on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain and stress caused by serious illnesses. It aims to increase quality of life for both the patient and their family and it's suitable for any stage or type of illness.

Pediatric oncology is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers occurring in children and adolescents. This branch combines various treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery and stem cell transplantation, along with research on cancer biology and genetics. The aim is to effectively treat and ideally achieve remission, while reducing potential side effects and improving the quality of life for young patients.

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small, colorless cell fragments in our blood that form clots and stop or prevent bleeding. These essential components of the blood are produced in the bone marrow and serve a crucial role in blood coagulation, wound healing, and inflammation response.###

Quantitative PCR (qPCR), also known as Real-Time PCR, is a molecular biology technique used to amplify and simultaneously quantify DNA in real time. The main benefit of qPCR over traditional PCR is its ability to detect the specific sequences during the phase of exponential amplification, making it more efficient and accurate for DNA analysis and cloning tasks.

Recurrence refers to the act of occurring again or repeating. In a health context, it often refers to the return of a disease or condition after a period of improvement or apparent cure. It can also apply to repeated patterns or events in various other disciplines, such as mathematics, engineering, or computer science.

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.

The lymphatic system, a vital part of the immune system, comprises a network of lymphatic vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph. It is responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body, transporting white blood cells to fight infections, and facilitating the absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system.

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 cancer refers to a type of cancer that has spread beyond the layer of tissue where it initially developed and started invading surrounding, healthy tissues. It's also known as infiltrating cancer. Notably, it is more serious than in situ (noninvasive) cancer, which remains within its original location.

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.