Deciduocellular sarcoma is a type of malignancy that arises from the cells of the decidua, the mucous membrane that lines the uterus during pregnancy. The pronunciation of this word is /dɛsɪdjʊoʊˈsɛljʊlər sɑrˈkoʊmə/, with the stress on the fourth syllable. The word consists of three parts: deciduo-, which refers to the decidua, -cellular, meaning "composed of cells," and sarcoma, a cancer that originates from connective tissues. The spelling of this word is complex, but the phonetic transcription helps to simplify the pronunciation.
Deciduocellular sarcoma, also known as deciduosarcoma or malignant deciduoma, is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that arises from the cells of the decidua. The decidua refers to the inner lining of the uterus during pregnancy.
This type of sarcoma predominantly affects women of reproductive age, especially during or after pregnancy. The exact cause of deciduocellular sarcoma is still unclear, but it is believed to be associated with gestational events and hormonal changes. It is not hereditary.
Deciduocellular sarcoma can manifest as a rapidly growing mass or tumor within the uterus, often accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, or pressure. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of clinical examination, imaging tests (such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging), and biopsy.
Treatment options for deciduocellular sarcoma usually involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The specific treatment plan depends on various factors such as the stage of the cancer, tumor size, and overall health of the patient.
Prognosis for deciduocellular sarcoma is generally poor, as it tends to be an aggressive and fast-spreading cancer. However, early detection and prompt treatment can improve outcomes. Close follow-up and ongoing monitoring are recommended even after successful treatment to detect any signs of recurrence.
Chorioma malignum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term deciduocellular sarcoma is a combination of two main components: deciduo and cellular sarcoma.
1. Deciduo is derived from the Latin word deciduus, meaning falling off. In biology, deciduous refers to the shedding or falling off of leaves, teeth, or other structures. This term is often used in relation to the decidua, which is the thick layer of cells that forms in the uterus during pregnancy and is eventually shed after childbirth or in case of a miscarriage.
2. Cellular sarcoma consists of two distinct parts: cellular and sarcoma. Cellular refers to something characterized by cells or related to cells. It comes from the Latin word cellula, meaning small cell. Sarcoma is derived from the Greek word sarx, meaning flesh.