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Feb 21, 2024 · It helps to learn some of the most common terms they use and what those words mean. Understanding the lingo can help you work with your doc as you fight your disease together.
NCI's Dictionary of Cancer Terms provides easy-to-understand definitions for words and phrases related to cancer and medicine.
Jan 31, 2022 · A cancer diagnosis may be the first time you hear certain words, or you may have heard them before but not understood exactly what they mean. Ajit Bisen, M.D., explains common cancer terms to help you navigate your diagnosis.
- Molly Adams
Get definitions for commonly used cancer-related terms from the American Cancer Society.
- What Are The Symptoms of A Tumor?
- What Causes Tumors?
- Risk Factors
- What Are The Complications of Tumors?
Tumor symptoms vary depending on where it develops, how big it is and whether it’s cancerous. You may be able to feel the mass, as with a breast lump. You may be able to see a bump or a raised, abnormal area of skin if the neoplasm is close to your skin’s surface. But you can’t always tell you if you have a tumor just by looking or feeling for one....
Tumors form when abnormal cells pile up, creating an overgrowth, or mass. Your body constantly makes new cells to replace old or damaged ones that die off. For a neoplasm to form, the cells don’t die off as expected. Or, new cells grow and multiply faster than they should. The cells accumulate, causing the tumor to grow.
Tumors can affect anyone. The specific factors that increase your chances of developing a neoplasm vary based on the type. But general risk factors for tumors include: 1. Gene mutations (changes), such as mutated BRCA genes. 2. Inherited conditions, such as Lynch syndrome and neurofibromatosis(NFS). 3. Family history of certain types of cancer like...
Complications of tumors may include: 1. Placing pressure on organs: Benign tumors may grow and put pressure on organs. For example, large mediastinal tumors, which form in your chest area, can impact organs like your windpipe, heart or lungs. Cancerous tumors can also place pressure on organs. 2. Excess hormone production: Endocrine tumors may caus...
Cancer is an abnormal multiplication of cells in a healthy tissue, creating a malignant tumor, which can metastasize.
A term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and can invade nearby tissues. Cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems. There are several main types of cancer.