Carcinoma cutaneum, also known as basal cell carcinoma, is a type of skin cancer. The spelling of this word can be broken down into its phonetic transcription: /kɑrsɪnoʊmə kjutˈeɪniəm/. The "c" in carcinoma is pronounced as a "k" sound, the "a" in cutaneum is pronounced like "u," and the "eum" ending is pronounced as "ee-uhm." The phonetic transcription helps explain the spelling of this medical term for those unfamiliar with the word's pronunciation. It is important to know and understand the correct spelling and pronunciation of medical terms to ensure clear communication in healthcare settings.
Carcinoma cutaneum, also known as cutaneous carcinoma, refers to a type of skin cancer that primarily develops in the outer layers of the skin, specifically the epidermis. It is a malignant neoplasm that arises due to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells originating from the squamous or basal cells of the skin.
Carcinoma cutaneum typically manifests as a lesion or tumor on the skin's surface, often in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun's UV radiation, such as the face, scalp, ears, lips, and hands. It usually appears as a red, scaly, or crusty patch, a firm nodule, or a wart-like growth. If left untreated, these malignant cells can invade nearby tissues, spread to regional lymph nodes, and potentially metastasize to distant organs.
The main risk factor for developing carcinoma cutaneum is long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which can come from both natural sunlight and artificial tanning sources. Other risk factors include fair skin, a history of sunburns, a weakened immune system, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, older age, and a family history of skin cancer.
Treatment options for carcinoma cutaneum depend on various factors such as the tumor's size, location, depth, and whether it has spread. Common treatment approaches include surgical removal, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, topical chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Regular self-examination of the skin, protection from the sun, and early detection are crucial for preventing and managing carcinoma cutaneum.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "carcinoma cutaneum" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.
"Carcinoma" is derived from the Greek word "karkinoma", which is a compound of "karkinos" meaning "crab" and "oma" meaning "tumor". The word "karkinos" was used to describe cancerous formations because the swollen blood vessels around a tumor were thought to resemble the legs of a crab.
"Cutaneum" is derived from the Latin word "cutis", meaning "skin". It is used to specify that the carcinoma is specifically located on or affecting the skin.
Therefore, "carcinoma cutaneum" refers to a cancerous tumor or malignancy that originates in the skin.