Key Medical Terms Related to Cancer

Study Notes

Carcin/o - Refers to cancer, indicating diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.
Malign/o - Denotes a "bad kind," typically associated with malignant tumors as opposed to benign ones.
Mutat/o - Means "to change," often used in the context of genetic mutations that can lead to cancerous transformations in cells.
Onc/o - Stands for tumor, encompassing both benign and malignant forms of tumor growth.
Rhabd/o - Translates to "rod," and can refer to rod-shaped structures often seen in certain cell types or organisms.
Sarc/o - Means "flesh," usually referring to connective tissues and sarcomas, which are malignant tumors originating from these tissues.

Cancer Overview

Cancer Definition - A disease caused by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in specific body areas, leading to various forms of cancer depending on the affected tissues.
Carcinoma - A type of malignant tumor that arises specifically from epithelial tissue, which lines the surfaces of organs and body cavities.

Treatment Modalities

Chemotherapy - Involves the use of chemical substances, especially cytotoxic drugs, to kill or inhibit cancer cell proliferation. It is a common and aggressive treatment method for cancer.
Immunotherapy - A treatment approach that employs substances to stimulate the immune system, enhancing the body's natural defenses against diseases, notably cancer.
Radiation Therapy - Utilizes X-rays or similar radiation forms to treat diseases, predominantly targeting cancer by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, resulting in cell death.

Description

This quiz covers essential medical terminology associated with cancer. Understand terms like carcinoma, tumor types, and genetic mutations that signify the presence and characteristics of cancer. Delve into the meanings and implications of these key terms in oncology.