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We hope you
will find this glossary useful to further your understanding of treatments and
cancer terms. Many of the links and definitions are cross-linked, for your convenience.
Abdomen
(ab-DO-men): The part of the body the contains the pancreas, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and other organs.
Acoustic
(ah-KOO-stic): Related to sound or hearing.
Adenocarcinoma
(AD-en-o-kar-si-NO-ma): A type of lung cancer in which the cells grow in patters resembling cubes or columns.
Adjuvant therapy
(AD-ju-vant THER-a-pee): Treatment given in addition to the primary treatment.
Adrenal glands
(a-DREE-nal): A pair of small glands, one located on top of each
kidney. the adrenal glands produce hormones that help control heart rate, blood pressure, they way the body uses food, and other vital functions.
Anaplastic
(an-ah-PLAS-tik): A term used to describe cancer cells that divide rapidly and bear little or no resemblance to normal cells.
Androgen
(An-dro-jin): A hormone that promotes the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics.
Anemia
(a-NEE-mee-a): A decrease in the normal number of red blood cells. This condition can cause a number of symptoms, including shortness of breath, weakness, and fatigue.
Anesthetic
(an-es-THET-ik): Drugs or gases given to cause a loss of feeling. A local anesthetic makes an area of the body numb. A general anesthetic puts the patient to sleep.
Angiogram
(AN-jee-o-gram): An x-ray of blood vessels, which can be seen because of an injection of a dye that shows up in the x-ray pictures.
Antibiotics
(an-ti-by-AH-tiks): Drugs used to treat infection.
Antibodies
(AN-ti-bod-eez): Proteins made by certain white blood cells that fight infection and disease.
Anticonvulsant
(an-ti-kon-VUL-sant): Medicine to stop, prevent or control seizures.
Alopecia
Hair Loss.
Alveoli
(al-VEE-o-lye): Tiny air sacs at the end of the bronchioles.
Asbestos
(as-BES-tus): A natural material that is made up of tiny fibers. If the fibers are inhaled, they can lodge in the lungs and lead to cancer.
Astrocytoma
(as-tro-sy-TO-ma): A type of brain cancer that arises from star-shaped cells called astrocytes. They may grow anywhere in the brain or spinal cord. In adults, Astrocytoma most often arise in the cerebrum. In chidden, They occur in the brain stem, the cerebrum, and cerebellum. A grade III Astrocytoma is sometimes called Anaplastic Astrocytoma. A grade IV Astrocytoma is usually called glioblastoma multiforme.
Antiandrogen
(an-tee-AN-dro-jen): A drug that blocks the actin of male sex hormones.
Antiemetic
A medicine to prevent or control nausea or vomiting.
Anus
(AY-nus): The opening at the lower end of the rectum through which solid wastes leave the body.
Arteriogram
(ar-TEER-ee-o-gram): An X-ray of blood vessels, which can be seen after an injection of a dye that shows up in the x-ray pictures.
Aspiration
(as-per-AY-shun): Removal of a sample of fluid and cells through a needle.
Ataxic gait
(ah-TAK-sik): Awkward, uncoordinated walking.
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B cells
A type of white blood cell. Many B cells mature into plasma cells.
Barium solution
A liquid containing barium sulfate that is used in X-Rays to highlight parts of the body.
Benign (be-NINE): Not cancerous; does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia
(hy-per-PLAY-zha): A noncancerous condition in which an over growth of prostate tissue pushes against the urethra and the bladder, blocking the flow of urine. Also called benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH.
Bile
A yellow-green fluid made by the liver. Bile is stored in the gallbladder. It passes through the common bile duct into the duodenum, where it helps digest fat.
Biological therapy
(by-o-LOJ-i-kul): Treatment that uses the body's natural defenses to fight cancer. Also called immunotherapy.
Biopsy
(BY-op-see): The removal of a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
Bladder
The hollow organ that stores urine.
Bone marrow
The soft, spongy tissue in the center of the large bones that produces white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
Bone marrow transplantation
Treatment in which healthy bone marrow replaces bone marrow that has been affected by disease or treatment of disease.
Brachytherapy
internal radiation treatment achieved by implanting radioactive material directly into the tumor or close to it. Sometimes called internal radiation therapy.
Brain stem
The stemlike part of the brain that is connected to the spinal cord.
Brain stem glioma
(glee-O-ma): A type of brain cancer that occurs in the lowest, stemlike part of the brain. The brain stem controls many vital functions. Tumors in the area generally cannot be removed. Most brain stem gliomas are high-grade astrocytomas.
Bronchi
(BRON-kye): The large air tubes leading to the lungs. One tube is called a bronchus.
Bronchioles
(BRON-kee-ols): The tiny branches of air tubes in the lungs.
Bronchitis
(bron-KYE-tis): Inflammation (swelling and reddening) of the bronchi.
Bronchoscope
(BRON-ko-scope): A thin, flexible instrument used to see the breathing passages through a lighted tube.
Bronchoscopy
(bron-KOS-ko-pee): A test that permits the doctor to see the breathing passages through a lighted tube.
Burkitt's lymphoma
A type of non-hodgkin's lymphoma that most often occurs in young people between the ages of 12 and 30. The disease usually causes a rapidly growing tumor in the abdomen.
Bypass
An operation in which the doctor creates a new pathway for the flow of body fluids.
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CHART
Stands for Continuous Hyperfractionated Accelerated Radiation Therapy. Instead of being treated Mon. thru Fri. once a day, the treatment is condensed into 12 straight days three times a day 8am 12pm and 8pm with the same total dose as if they would have gotten 40 treatments over a month and a half of once a day treatments. Survival rates are greater treating this way with minimal side effects. see Simon Kramer Institute
Cancer
A term for diseases in which abnormal cells grow and divide without control. Cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and can spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body. see also cancer, in depth definition
Calcium
(KAL-see-um): A mineral found mainly in the hard part of the bones.
Carcinogen
(car-SIN-o-jin): Any agent that is known to cause cancer.
Carcinoma
(car-si-NO-ma): cancer that begins in the tissues that line or cover an organ.
Cartilage
(KAR-ti-lij): Firm rubbery tissue that cushions bones at joints. A more flexible kind of cartilage connects muscles with bones and makes up other parts of the body, such as the larynx and the outside parts of the ears.
Catheter
A slender, flexible tube used for draining or injecting fluids.
Central nervous system
The brain and the spinal cord. Also called CNS.
Cerebellum
(sair-uh-BELL-um): The portion of the brain in the back of the head between the cerebrum and the brain stem.
Cerebral hemispheres
(seh-REE-bral-HEM-iss-feerz): The tow halves of the cerebrum.
Cerebrospinal fluid
(seh-REE-bro-SPY-nal): The watery fluid flowing around the brain and spinal cord. Also called CSF.
Cerebrum
(seh-REE-brum): The largest part of the brain. it is divided into two hemispheres, or halves.
Cervix
(SIR-viks): The lower, narrow end of the uterus that forms a canal between the uterus and the vagina.
Chemoprevention
(KEE-mo-pre-ven-shun): The use of natural or laboratory-made substances to prevent cancer.
Chemotherapy
(kee-mo-THER-a-pee): Treatment with anticancer drugs.
Clinical trials
Research studies that involve patients. Each study is designed to answer scientific questions and to find better ways to prevent or treat cancer.
Cobalt 60
A radioactive substance used as a radiation source to treat cancer.
Colon
(KO-lun): The long, coiled tubelike organ that removes water from the digested food. The remaining material, solid waste called stool, moves though the colon to the rectum and leaves the body through the anus.
Colonscopy
(ko-lon-OS-ko-pee): An examination in which the doctor looks at the colon though a flexible, lighted instrument called a colonoscope.
Corpus
The body of the uterus.
Colony-stimulating factors
Laboratory-made agents similar to substances in the body that stimulate the production of blood cells. Treatment with colony-stimulating factors can help the bone marrow recover from the effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Common bile duct
The tube through which bile passes from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum.
Computer topography
(tom-OG-rah-fee): An x-ray procedure that uses a computer to produce a detailed picture of a cross section of the body. Also called a CT scan.
CT scan
A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body created by a computer linked to an X-ray machine. Also called CAT scan.
Crainiopharyngioma
(KRAY-nee-o-fah-rin-jee-O-ma): A type of cancer that develops in the region of the pituitary gland near the hypothalamus. They are usually benign; however, they are sometimes considered malignant because they can press on or damage the hypothalamus and affect vital functions. These tumors occur most often in the children and adolescents.
Crainotomy
(kray-nee-OT-o-mee): An operation in which an opening is made in the skull so the doctor can reach the brain.
Cyptorchidism
(kript-OR-kid-izm): A condition in which one of both testicles fail to move from the abdomen, where they develop before birth, into the scrotum; also called undecended testicles.
Cyst
(sist): An abnormal sac within a tissue or organ, usually filled with fluid.
Cryosurgery
A procedure that uses extremely cold liquid nitrogen to destroy cancer cells.
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Dialysis
(dy-AL-i-sys): The process of cleansing the blood by passing it through a special machine. Dialysis is necessary when the kidneys are not able to filter the blood.
Diaphragm
(DY-a-fram): The thin muscle below the lungs and heart that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.
Digestive tract
The organs through which food passes. These are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, and rectum.
Digestive system
The organs of the body that take in food and turn it into products that build and repaid tissue. It also separates waste products that body cannot use so they can leave the body through bowel movements.
Dilation and curettage
(dye-LAY-shun and KYOO-re-tahzh): A minor operation in which the cervix is opened (dilation) and the cervical canal and uterine lining are scraped with a spoon-shaped instrument called a curette (curettage). This procedure is also called a D & C.
Dosimetrist
A person who plans and calculates the proper radiation dose for treatment.
Duodenum
(doo-uh-DEE-num): The first part of the small intestine.
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ERCP
(endoscopic retrogade cholangiopancreatogram) (en-do-SKOP-ik RET-ro-grade ko-LAN-gee-o-pan-kree-AT-o-gram): A special x-ray of the common bile duct.
Edema
(eh-DEE-ma): Swelling; an abnormal buildup of fluid.
Encapsulated
(en-KAP-soo-lay-ted): Confined to a specific area; the tumor remains in a compact from.
Electrolarynx
(e-LEK-tro-LAR-inks): A battery-operated instrument that makes a humming sounds to help laryngectomees talk.
Electron beam
A stream of particles that procures high-energy radiation to treat cancer.
Embolization
(em-bo-li-ZAY-shun): A treatment that clogs small blood vessels and blocks the flow of blood to a tumor. Also called infarction.
Environmental tobacco smoke
Smoke that comes from the burning end of a cigarette and smoke that is exhaled by smokers. Also called ETS or secondhand smoke. inhaling ETS is called involuntary or passive smoking.
Enzymes
(EN-zimes): Proteins that are produced by body cells and the cause biochemical reactions. Some enzymes aid digestion.
Ependymoma
(eh-PEN-di-MO-ma): Cancer that develops usually in the lining of the ventricles. They may also occur in the spinal cord. Although these tumors can develop at any age, they are most common in childhood and adolescence.
Epidermoid carcinoma
(ep-i-DER-moyd): A type of lung cancer in which the cells are flat and look like fish scales. Also called sqamous cell carcinoma.
Epiglottis
(ep-i-GLOT-is): The flap that covers the trachea during swallowing so that food does not enter the lungs.
Endometriosis
(en-doe-MEE-tree-O-sis): A benign condition in which endocetrial tissue grows on the surface of the uterus and other nearby organs.
Endometrium
(en-doe-MEE-tree-um): The lining of the uterus.
Esophageal speech
(e-SOF-a-JEE-al): Speech produced with air trapped in the esophagus and forced out again.
Esophagus
(e-SOF-a-gus): The muscular tube through which food passes from the mouth to the stomach.
Estrogen
(ES-tro-jin): A female hormone.
Estrogen replacement therapy
Hormone treatment to control changes associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis.
External radiation
radiation therapy that uses a machine located outside of the body to aim high-energy rays at cancer cells.
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Fallopian tubes
(fa-LOE-pee-in): Tubes on each side of the uterus through which an egg moves from the ovaries to the uterus.
Fibroids
Benign uterine tumors. Also called leiomymas.
Fluoroscopy
(floor-OS-ko-pee): An x-ray procedure that makes it possible to see internal organs in motion.
Fundus
The upper, dome-shaped portion of the uterus.
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Gallbladder
A pear-shaped organ that stores bile. it is located below the liver.
Gamma knife
Radiation therapy in which high-energy rays are aimed at a tumor from many angles in a single treatment session.
Gamma rays
high-energy rays that come from a radioactive source such as Cobalt 60
Genetic
(jen-ET-ik): Related to genes, structures found in every cell of the body. Each gene contains information that directs cell processes and controls the way an individual develops.
Genitourinary
(GEN-i-toe-YOO-rin-air-ee): The parts of the body that play a role in reproduction, getting rid of waste products in the form of urine, or both.
Germ cell tumors
a type of cancer that arises from primitive (developing) sex cells, or germ cells. The most frequent type of germ cell tumor in the brain is the germinoma.
Germinoma
See germcell tumors
Glioblastoma multiforme
(glee-o-blas-To-ma mul-tih-FOR-may): see Astrocytoma
Glioma
(glee-O-ma): A name for brain tumors that begin in the glial cells, or supportive cells, in the brain. "Glia" is the Greek word for glue.
Glottis
GLOT-is): The middle part of the larynx; the area where the vocal cords are located.
Gray
A measurement of the amount of radiation dose absorbed by the body. 1 gray=100 rads.
Groin
The area where the thigh meets that hip.
Gynecologic oncologist
(guy-ne-ko-LOJ-ik on-KOL-o-jist): A doctor who specializes in treating cancer of the female reproductive organs.
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Hair follicle
(FOL-i-kul): A sac in the scalp from where a hair grows.
Hematologist
(heem-a-TOL-o-jist): A doctor who specializes in the treatment of blood diseases.
High-dose -rate remote Brachytherapy
A type of internal radiation in which each treatment is given in a few minutes while the radioactive source is in place. The source of radioactivity is removed between treatments. Also known as high-dose-rate remote afterloading radiation therapy.
Hormones
(HOR-monz): Chemicals produced by certain glands in the body. Hormones control the way certain cells or organs act.
Hormone Therapy
Treatment of cancer by removing, blocking or adding hormones.
Humidifier
(hyoo-MID-i-fy-er): A machine that puts moisture in the air.
Hydrocephalus
(hy-dro-SEF-uh-lus): The abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the Ventricles of the brain.
Hypercalcemia
(hy-per-kal-SEE-mee-a): A higher-than-normal level of calcium in the blood. This condition can cause a number of symptoms, including loss of appetite, nausea, thirst, fatigue, muscle weakness, restlessness, and confusion.
Hyperthermia
(hy-oer-THER-mee-a): Treatment that involves heating a tumor.
Hypothalamus
(hy-po-THAL-mus): The area of the brain that controls body temperature, hunger, and thirst.
Hyperplasia
(high-per-PLAY-zhea): A condition in which there is an abnormal increase in the number of cells.
Hysterectomy
An operation to remove the uterus and cervix.
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Immune System
(i-MYOON): The complex group of cells and organs that defend the body against infection and disease.
Imaging tests
Tests that produce pictures of the inside of the body to help diagnose and stage prostate cancer.
Implant
A small container of radioactive material placed in or near a cancer.
Incision
(in-Si-zhun): A cut made during surgery.
Incontinence
(in-KON-ti-nens): Inability to control the flow of urine from the bladder.
Inguinal orchiectomy
(IN-gwin-al or-kee-EK-to-mee):
Insulin
(In-su-lin): A hormone made by the islet cells of the pancreas. Insulin controls the amount of sugar in the blood.
Internal radiation therapy
The placement of radioactive material inside the body as close as possible to the cancer.
Interstitial radiation
A type of internal radiation in which a radioactive source (implant) is placed directly into the tissue (not a body cavity).
Intracavitary radiation
A type of internal radiation in which a radioactive source (implant) is placed in a body cavity such as the chest cavity.
Intraoperative radiation
A type of external radiation therapy used to deliver a large dose of radiation to the tumor bed and surrounding tissue at the time of surgery.
Intrathecal Chemotherapy
(in-tra-THEE-kal): Injection of anticancer drugs into cerebral fluid.
Intravenous (IV)
(in-tra-VEE-nus): Injected into a vein.
Intravenous pyelography
(in-tra-VEE-nus- py-LOG-ra-fee): X-ray study of the kidneys and urinary tract. Structures are made visible by the injection of a substance that blocks x-rays. Also called IVP.
Islet cell cancer
(EYE-let): Cancer arising from cells in the islates of Langerhans.
Islets of Langerhans
(EYE-lets of LANG-er-hanz): Insulin-producing tissue in the pancreas.
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Jaundice
(JAWN-dis): A condition in which the skin and the whites of the eyes become yellow and the urine darkens, indicating abnormal function of the liver.
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Kidneys
a pair of organs located on each side of the spine, just above the waist. The kidneys remove wastes from the blood. These wastes leave the body as urine.
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Laparotomy
(lap-a-ROT-o-mee): An operation that allows the surgeon to inspect the organs in the abdomen.
Large cell carcinomas
A group of lung cancers in which the cells are large and look abnormal.
Laryngeal
(la-RIN-jee-al): having to do with the larynx.
Laryngectomee
(la-in-JEK-toe-mee): A person who has had his or her voice box removed.
Laryngectomy
(la-in-JEK-toe-mee): An operation to remove all or part of the larynx.
Laryngoscope
(lar-RING-go-skope): A flexible, lighted tube used to examine the larynx.
Laryngoscopy
(la-ring-GOS-ko-pee): Examination of the larynx with a mirror (indirect laryngoscopy) or with the laryngoscope (direct larynoscopy).
Larnyx
(LAIR-inks): The valve-like structure at the top of the windpipe. it is used in breathing, swallowing, and talking. Also called the voice box.
Laser
(LAY-zer): A powerful beam of light used in some types of surgery and in photodynamic therapy. Short for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of
Radiation.
Linear accelerator
A machine that creates high-energy radiation to treat cancers, using electricity to form a stream of fast-moving subatomic particles. Also called mega-voltage (MeV) linear accelerator, or a linac.
Liver
A large organ in the abdomen that removes waste products from the blood and aids in digestion.
Lobe
A portion of the lung
Lobectomy
(lo-BEK-to-mee): An operation to remove an entire lobe of the lung.
Local treatment
Treatment that affects a tumor and the cells in the area close to it.
Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone(LHRH)
(LOO-tin-eye-zing AG-o-nist): A substance that closely resembles LHRH, which controls the production of sex hormones. However, LHRH agonists affect the body differently than does LHRH. LHRH agonists keep the testicles from producing hormones.
Lymph
(limf): The almost colorless fluid that travels through the lymphatic system and carries cells that help fight infection.
Lymph nodes
Small bean-shaped structures in the lymphatic system. The lymph nodes store special cells that can trap cancer cells or other bacteria traveling though the body. Also called lymph glands.
Lymphatic System
(lim-FAT-ik): The tissues and organs that produce, store, and carry cells that fight infection and disease. This system includes the bone marrow, spleen, thymus, lymph nodes, and vessels that carry lymph.
Lymphocytes
(LIMF-o-sites): White blood cells that fight infection and disease.
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M proteins
Antibodies or parts of antibodies found in unusually large amounts in the blood or urine or multiple myeloma patients.
Malignant
(ma-LIG-nant): Cancerous (see cancer)
Mediastinoscpoy
(MEE_dee-a-stin-OS-ko-pee): A procedure in which the doctor inserts a tube into the chest to view the organs in the mediastinum. The tube is inserted through an incision next to the breastbone.
Mediastinum
(mee-dee-a-STY-num): The area between the lungs. The organs in this area include the heart and its large veins and arteries, the trachea, the esophagus, the bronchi, and the lymph nodes.
Medulloblastoma
(MED-yoo-lo-blas-TO-ma): A type of brain cancer that were thought to develop from glial cells. However, recent research suggests that these tumors develop from primitive (developing) nerve cells that normally do not remain in the body after birth. For this reason, medulloblastomas arise in the cerebellum; however, they may occur in the other areas as well. These tumors occur most often in children and are more common in boys than in girls.
Menopause
The time of a woman's life when menstrual periods permanently stop. Also called "change of life".
Metastasis
(mee-EAS-ta-sis): The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. Cells in the metastatic (secondary) tumor are like those in the original (primary) tumor.
MRI
A procedure in which a magnet linked to a computer is used to create pictures of areas inside the body. Also called Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
Mucus
A thick fluid produced by the lining of some organs of the body.
Multiple myeloma
(my-e-LOW-me): cancer that affects plasma cells. The disease causes the growth of tumors in many bones, which can lead to bone pain and fractures. In Addition, the disease often causes kidney problems and lowered resistance to infection.
Mycosis fungoides
(my-Ko-sis fun-GOY-deez): A type of non-hodgkin's lymphoma that first appears on the skin. Also called cutaneous t-cell lymphoma.
Myelin
(MY-eh-lin): The fatty substance that covers and protects nerves.
Myelogram
(MY-eh-lo-gram): An x-ray of the spinal cord and the bones of the spine.
Myomrtrium
(my-oh-MEE-tree-um): The muscular wall of the uterus.
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Nephrectomy
(nef-REK-to-mee): surgery to remove the kidney. Radical nephrectomy removes the kidney, the adrenal gland, nearby lymph nodes, and other surrounding tissue. Simple nephrectomy removes just the affected kidney. Partial nephrectomy removes the tumor, but not the entire kidney.
Nephrotomogram
(nef-ro-TOE-mo-gram): A series of special x-rays of the kidneys. The x-rays are taken from different angles. They show the kidneys clearly, without the shadows of the organs around them.
Neurologist
(new-ROL-o-jist): A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system.
Nueroma
(new-RO-ma): A tumor that arises in nerve cells.
Neurosurgeon
(NEW-ro-SER-jum): A doctor who specializes in surgery on the brain and other parts of the nervous system.
Nitrosoureas
(ny-TRO-so-yur-EE-ahz): A group of anticancer drugs that can cross the blood-brain barrier. Carmustine (BCNU) and lomustine(CCNU) are nitrosoureas.
Nonsmall cell lung cancer
A general classification for Sqamous cell carcinoma, Adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
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Oat cell cancer
A type of lung cancer in which the cells look like oats. Also called small cell lung cancer.
Ophthalmoscope
(off-THAL-mo-skope): A lighted instrument used to examine the inside of the eye, including the retina and the optic nerve.
Oncologist
(on-KOL-o-gist): A doctor that specializes in treating cancer.
Orchiectomy
(or-kee-EK-to-mee): Surgery to remove a testicle.
Osteoporosis
(os-tea-oh-pa-ROW-sis): A condition that is characterized by a decrease in bone mass and bone density, causing bones to become fragile.
Ovaries
(OH-va-reez): The pair of female reproductive glands in which the ova, or eggs, are formed. The ovaries are located in the lower abdomen, one on each side of the uterus.
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Pancreatic juices
Fluids made by the pancreas that contain digestive enzymes.
Paraneoplastic syndrome
(pair-a-nee-o-PLAS-tik): A group of symptoms caused by substances produced by certain cancer cells.
Pathologist
(path-LO-o-jist): A doctor who identifies diseases by studying cells and tissue under a microscope.
Papilledema
(pap-il-eh-DEE-ma): Swelling around the optic nerve, usually due to pressure on the nerve by a tumor.
Pap test
Examination of a sample of cells collected from the cervix and the vagina. Also called a Pap smear.
Paralysis
(pa-RAL-i-sis): Loss of ability to move all or part of the body.
Pelvic
Referring to the area of the body located below the waist and surrounded by the hip and pubic bones.
Pineal gland
(PIN-ee-al): A small gland located in the cerebrum.
Peripheral stem cell support
(phu-RIF-er-al): A method for replacing bone marrow destroyed by cancer treatment. Certain cells in the blood that are similar to those in bone marrow are removed from the patient's blood before treatment. The cells are given back to the patient after treatment to help the bone marrow recover and continue producing healthy blood cells.
Pineal region tumors
Tumors that occur in or around the pineal gland , and tiny organ near the center of the brain. The tumor can be slow growing (pineocytoma), or fast growing (pineoblastoma. The pineal region is very difficult to reach, and these tumors often cannot be removed.
Pineoblastoma
see Pineal region tumors
Pinecytoma
see Pineal region tumors
Pituitary gland
(pi-TOO-i-tare-ee): The main endocrine gland; it produces hormones that control other glands and many body functions, especially growth.
Plasma cells
Special white blood cells that produce antibodies.
Plasmacytoma
A tumor that is made up of cancerous plasma cells.
Plasmapheresis
(plas-ma-fer-EE-sis): The process of removing certain proteins from the blood. Plasmapheresis can be used to remove excess antibodies from the blood of multiple myeloma patients.
Photodynamic therapy
(FO-to-dye-NAM-ik): Treatment with laser light and substances that are sensitive to light. The laser causes a chemical reaction that destroys cancer cells.
Pleura
(PLOOR-a): the thin covering that protects and cushions the lungs. The pleura is made up of two layers of tissue that are separated by a small amount of fluid.
Pneumatic larynx
(noo-MAT-ik): A device that uses air to produce sounds to help a Laryngectomee talk.
Pneumonectomy
(noo-mo-MEK-to-mee): An operation to remove an entire lung.
Pneumonia
(noo-MONE-ya): An infection that occurs when fluid and cells collect in the lung.
Percancerous
(pre-KAN-sir-us): A term used to describe a condition that may or is likely to become cancer.
Prednisone
A drug often given to multiple myeloma patients along with one or more anticancer drugs. Prednisone appears to act together with anticancer drugs in helping to control the effects of the disease on the body.
Primitive neuroectodermal tumors
(NEW-ro-ek-to-DER-mul): see Medulloblastoma
Progesterone
(pro-JES-ter-own): A female hormone.
Prognosis
The probable outcome or course of a disease; the chance of recovery.
Prostate
A male sex gland; it produces fluid that forms part of the semen.
Prostate-specific antigen
A protein produced by the prostate gland and found at low levels in the blood. Its level goes up in the blood of some men who have prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or prostatitis. Also called PSA.
Prostatectomy
Surgery to remove part of the prostate. Removal of the entire prostate is called radical prostatectomy, which his preformed two ways. Retropubic prostatectomy (re-tro-PYOO-bik) is the surgical removal of the prostate through an incision in the abdomen. Perineal prostatectomy (pe-ri-NEE-al) is surgery to remove the prostate through an incision made between the scrotum and the anus.
Prostatic acid phosphatase
(FOS-fa-tase): An enzyme produced by the prostate. Its level in the blood goes up in some men who have prostate cancer. Also called PAP.
Prophylactic cranial irradiation
(pro-fi-LAK-tik-KRAY-nee-ul ir-ray-dee-AY-shun): Radiation therapy to the head to prevent cancer from spreading to the brain.
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Radiation fibrosis
(ray-dee-AY-shun fye-BRO-sis): The formation of scar tissue as a result of radiation therapy to the lung.
Radiation Oncologist
(ray-dee-AY-shun on-KOL-o-gist): A doctor who specializes in treating cancer with radiation.
Radiation therapy
(ray-dee-AY-shun): Treatment with high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Radionuclide scans
Images of internal parts of the body. To produce these images, a small amount of radioactive material is swallowed or injected into the body. An instrument called a scanner then measures the radiation given off by certain organs.
Radiosenitizers
Drugs that make cells more sensitive to radiation.
Recur
To occur again. Recurrence is the reappearance of cancer cells at the same site of in another location.
Radon
(RAY-don): A radioactive gas that is released by uranium, a substance found in soil and rock. When too much radon is breathed in, it can damage lung cells and lead to lung cancer.
Reed-Sternberg cell
A type of cell that appears in patients with Hodgkin's disease. The number of these cells increases as the disease advances.
Relapse
The return of symptoms and signs ofa disease after a period of improvement.
Remission
(ree-mish-un): Disappearance of the signs and symptoms of cancer. When this happens, the disease is said to be "in remission." A remission can be temporary or permanent.
Renal capsule
The fibroid connective tissue that surrounds each kidney.
Renal cell cancer
cancer that develops in the lining of the renal tubules, which filter the blood and produce urine.
Renal pelvis
The area at the center of the kidney. urine collects here and it funneled into the ureter.
Resection
(re-SEK-shun): Surgical removal of part of an organ.
Respiratory system
(RES-pi-ra-tor-ee): The organs that are involved in breathing. These include the nose, throat, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
Respiratory therapy
(RES-pi-ra-tor-ee): Exercises and treatments that help patients recover lung function after surgery.
Risk factor
Something that increases a person's chance of getting a particular type of cancer.
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Salpingo-oophorectomy
(sal-PING-o-OH-fe-REK-to-me): Surgery to remove a fallopian tube and an ovary. Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy means that both the ovaries and the fallopian tubes are removed.
Schwannoma
(shwah-NO-ma): A type of benign tumor that begin in Schwann cells, which produce the myelin that protects the acoustic nerve of hearing. Acoustic neuromas Area type of Schwannoma. They occur mainly in adults. These tumors affect women twice as often as men.
Scrotum
(SKRO-tum): The external pouch of skin that contains the testicles.
Seizures
(SEE-zhurz): Convulsions; sudden involuntary movements of the muscles.
Semen
The fluid that is released through the penis during orgasm. Semen is made up of sperm from the testicles and fluid from the prostate and other sex glands.
Shunt
A catheter (tube) that carries cerebrospinal fluid from a ventricle in the brain to another area of the body.
Side effects
Problems that occur when treatment affects healthy cells. Common side effects of cancer treatment and fatigue, nausea, vomiting, decreased blood cells counts, hair loss, and mouth sores.
Sigmoidoscopy
(sig-moid-OSS-ko-pee): An examination of the rectum and the lower end of the colon using a thin lighted instrument called a sigmiodoscope.
Small cell lung cancer
A type of lung cancer in which the cells are small and round. Also called oat call lung cancer.
Speculum
SPEK-yoo-lum): An instrument used to widen the vagina so that the cervix can be seen.
Speech pathologist
A specialist who evaluates and treats people with communication and swallowing problems.
Spleen
An organ that produces lymphocytes, filters the blood, stores blood cells, and destroys those that are aging. it is located near the stomach.
Sputum
(SPYOO-tum): Mucus from the lungs.
Sqamous cell carcinoma
(SKWAY-mus): A type of lung cancer in which the cells are flat and are arranged like fish scaled. Also called epidermal carcinoma.
Stage
The extent to which cancer has spread from its original site to other parts of the body.
Staging
Doing exams and tests to learn the extent of a cancer, especially whether it has spread from its original site to other parts of the body.
Stereotaxis
(stair-ee-o-TAK-sis): Use of a computer and scanning devices to create three-dimensional pictures. This method can be sued to direct a biopsy, external radiation, or the insertion of radiation implants.
Steroids
(STEH-roidz): Drugs used to relieve swelling and inflammation.
Stoma
(STOW-ma): An opening made by a surgeon. An opening into the windpipe is also called a tracheostomy.
Subglottis
(SUB-glot-is): The lowest part of the larynx; the area from just below the vocal cords down to the top of the trachea.
Supraglottis
(SOOP-ra-GLOT-it): The upper part of the larynx, including the epiglottis, the area above the vocal cords.
Surgery
An operation.
Systematic Therapy
(sis-TEM-ik): Treatment that reaches and affects cells all over the body.
Systemic treatment
(sis-TEM-ik): Treatment using substances that travel though the bloodstream, reaching and affecting cells all over the body.
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Tamoxifen
A drug that changes the activity of estrogen in the body. It is used to treat both advanced and early stage breast cancer.
Thoracentsis
(thor-a-sen-Tee-sis): Removal of fluid in the pleura through a needle.
Thoracic
(thor-ASS-ik): Pertaining to the chest.
Thoracotomy
(thor-a-KOT-o-mee): An operation to open the chest.
Thrombophlebitis
(throm-boe-fleh-FY-tis): Inflammation of a vein that occurs when a blood clot forms.
Thymus
An organ in which lymphocytes mature and multiply. It lies beyond the breastbone.
Tissue
(TISH-oo): A group or payre of cells that together perform a specific function.
Trachea
(TRAY-kee-a): Windpipe.
Tracheoesphageal puncture
(TRAY-kee-o-es-OF-a-JEE-al PUNK-chur): A small opening made by a surgeon between the esophagus and the trachea. A valve keeps food out of the trachea, but lets air into the esophagus for esophageal speech.
Trachestomy
(TRAY-kee-OS-toe-mee): Sugary to create an opening (stoma) into the windpipe. The opening itself may also be called a layer.
Tracheostomy button
(Surgery): A 1/2 to 1 1/2 inch-long plastic tube placed in the stoma to keep it open.
Tracheostomy tube
(TRAY-kee-OS-toe-mee-): A 2 to 3 inch metal or plastic tube that keeps the stoma and trachea open. Also called a trach ("trake") tube.
Transurethal resection of the prostate
(trans-yoo-REE-thral): The use of an instrument inserted through the penis to remove tissue from the prostate. also called TURP, or TUR.
Treatment study
A research study that involves patients. each study is designed to answer specific scientific question and to find better ways to prevent or treat cancer.
Tumor
An abnormal mass of tissue.
Tumor Marker
A substance detectable in the blood or urine that suggests the presence of cancer. Examples are alphafetotropin (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).
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Ultrasonography
A technique in which high-frequency sounds waves bounce off internal organs and their echoes are changed into pictures of organs inside the body.
Ureter
(YUR-e-ter): The tube that carries urine from each kidney to the bladder.
Urethra
(yur-EE-thra): The tube that empties urine from the bladder.
Urologist
(yur-OL-o-jist): A doctor who specializes in disease of the urinary organs in females and the urinary sex organs in males.
Uterus
A small pear-shaped, hollow muscular organ in the pelvis where the unborn child develops until birth; also called the womb.
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Vagina
(va-JYE-na): The muscular canal extending from the uterus to the exterior of the body.
Vasectomy
(vas-EK-to-mee): Surgery preformed to sterilize a man by cutting the vas deferens, a tube that transports sperm.
Ventricles
(VEN-trih-kulz): Four connected cavities (hollow spaces) in the brain.
Vital
Necessary to maintain life. Breathing is a vital function.
Vocal cords
Two small bands of muscle within the larynx. They close to prevent food from getting into the lungs , and they vibrate to produce the voice.
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White blood cells
Cells that help the body fight infection and disease. These cells begin their development in the bone marrow and then travel to other parts of the body.
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X-Ray
High-energy radiation. It is used in low doses to diagnose diseases and in high doses to treat cancer.
