Oncology Terminology

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Tumor

An abnormal growth of cells. It can be benign or malignant.

Benign

A non cancerous growth. It does not spread to other parts of the body.

Malignant

A cancerous growth that can invade nearby tissues. It may spread to distant organs.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. It often indicates advanced disease.

Chemotherapy

A treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may cause side effects due to its strength.

Radiation Therapy

A treatment that uses high energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It targets specific areas.

Biopsy

The removal of tissue for examination. It helps confirm a cancer diagnosis.

Oncologist

A doctor who specializes in cancer treatment. They guide diagnosis and therapy.

Remission

A period when cancer signs decrease or disappear. It may be temporary or long term.

Relapse

The return of cancer after improvement. It may require additional treatment.

Carcinogen

A substance that can cause cancer. Examples include tobacco smoke and certain chemicals.

Staging

A process that determines how far cancer has spread. It helps guide treatment decisions.

Grading

A measure of how abnormal cancer cells look. It helps predict how quickly cancer may grow.

Immunotherapy

A treatment that boosts the immune system to fight cancer. It can improve long term outcomes.

Targeted Therapy

A treatment that focuses on specific cancer cell features. It often has fewer side effects.

Palliative Care

Care that focuses on comfort and quality of life. It supports people with serious illness.

Tumor Marker

A substance found in blood or tissue that may indicate cancer. It helps monitor treatment.

Surgery

A procedure to remove cancer or affected tissue. It is often part of treatment.

Radiologist

A specialist who interprets imaging tests. They help detect and monitor cancer.

Survivorship

The phase of life after cancer treatment. It includes follow up care and support.