Correct spelling for the English word "medullary cancer" is [mˈɛdələɹi kˈansə], [mˈɛdələɹi kˈansə], [m_ˈɛ_d_ə_l_ə_ɹ_i k_ˈa_n_s_ə] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Medullary cancer is a type of cancer that primarily affects the cells in the medulla, the innermost layer of certain organs or tissues. It is a term commonly used to describe specific types of cancer, such as medullary thyroid cancer and medullary breast cancer.
Medullary cancer typically arises from cells that produce hormones or control bodily functions in the affected organ or tissue. It is characterized by the presence of abnormal cells in the medullary region, which can grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. These cancerous cells may invade surrounding tissues or organs, and in some cases, they may spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.
Medullary cancer is often considered to be an aggressive form of cancer, although the prognosis may vary depending on various factors such as the size and location of the tumor, stage of cancer, the presence of metastasis, and individual patient characteristics. Symptoms of medullary cancer can differ depending on the affected organ but may include a lump or mass, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel or urinary habits, fatigue, and pain.
The diagnosis of medullary cancer usually involves medical imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, MRI, CT scans, and the analysis of biopsy samples, which are taken from the tumor or affected tissue. Treatment options for medullary cancer may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these approaches, depending on the specific circumstances of the patient and the stage of the cancer.
In summary, medullary cancer refers to a type of cancer that originates in the medullary layer of organs or tissues and can potentially spread to other parts of the body.
A carcinoma in which the growth consists chiefly of cells, the stroma being scarcely noticeable.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "medullary" is derived from the Latin word "medulla" which means "marrow". It can refer to the marrow within bones or the central part of certain organs. "Cancer", on the other hand, is derived from the Latin word "cancer" which means "crab". The term "cancer" was used in ancient times to describe tumors, as they were thought to have crab-like extensions. Therefore, "medullary cancer" refers to a type of cancer that originates in the medulla or central part of an organ.