Ch 19 Terms Flashcards
Cancer
Uncontrolled cell growth leading to tumor formation.
Neoplasm
Abnormal tissue growth; can be benign or malignant.
Benign Tumor
Non-cancerous, does not spread.
Malignant Tumor
Cancerous, spreads to other tissues.
Metastasis
Spread of cancer cells from the primary site to distant organs.
Oncology
The study and treatment of tumors.
Carcinoma
Cancer originating in epithelial tissue (e.g., skin, lungs, breasts).
Sarcoma
Cancer arising from connective/supportive tissue (e.g., bone, muscle).
Leukemia
Cancer of blood-forming tissues (e.g., bone marrow).
Lymphoma
Cancer affecting the lymphatic system.
Differentiation
The process by which normal cells develop specialized functions.
Dedifferentiation
Cancer cells losing their specialized function.
Anaplasia
Cells that are undifferentiated and have lost normal characteristics.
TNM System
Tumor staging system using Tumor size, Node involvement, and Metastasis.
Biopsy
Surgical removal of a tissue sample to examine for cancer.
Endoscopy
A tube with a camera used to inspect body cavities.
Pap Smear
Screening test for cervical cancer.
Tumor Markers
Substances in blood that indicate cancer presence (e.g., PSA, CA-125).
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging; used to detect tumors.
CT Scan
Computed Tomography; detailed cross-sectional imaging.
Chemotherapy
Use of drugs to destroy cancer cells.
Radiotherapy
Use of ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells.
Immunotherapy
Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Photodynamic Therapy
Light-sensitive drugs activated to destroy cancer cells.
