Nomenclature

Question 1

Define: neoplasm.

Give an example.

Answer 1

Any abnormal proliferation of cells; normally resulting in a tumour, but can result in moles. E.g. leukaemia is a neoplasm (not a tumour)
- ‘neo’ (new) ‘plasm’ (creation)

Question 2

Define: hyperplasia.

Give an example

Answer 2

Increased proliferation of otherwise normal cells.

E.g. callous/wart

Question 3

What term is described as a neoplasm capable of invasive growth (potentially able to spread to other parts of the body)?

Answer 3

Cancer

Question 4

What is the difference between benign and malignant?

Answer 4

Benign: incapable of invasive growth
Malignant: capable of invasive growth

Question 5

Define: carcinoma.

Give examples

Answer 5

Cancer of epithelial origin: skin, breast, lung, prostate.

Question 6

Define: sarcoma.

Give examples

Answer 6

Cancer of mesenchymal origin: bone, fat, muscle.

Question 7

Define: lymphoma.

Answer 7

Cancer of bone marrow cells in the lymphatic system.

Question 8

Define: leukaemia.

Answer 8

Cancer of bone marrow cells in the blood.

Question 9

What is meant by the ‘liquid cancers’?

Answer 9

Lymphoma and leukaemia; they can circulate.