MEDULLARY TUMOR Meaning and
Definition
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A medullary tumor refers to a tumor that originates from or affects the medulla, a region in various organs characterized by its soft, innermost tissue layer. This type of tumor can occur in different parts of the body such as the medulla oblongata in the brain, the adrenal medulla in the adrenal glands, and the medullary cavity in bones.
In the medullary region, tumors typically develop due to abnormal growth of cells that form the medulla's supporting tissues or specialized cells found there. Medullary tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may exhibit different characteristics depending on their location and type.
For instance, medullary tumors in the brain can impact vital functions and might present symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, difficulty in coordination, or even paralysis. Tumors in the adrenal medulla may influence the production of hormones like adrenaline, leading to hormonal imbalances and symptoms like high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and excessive sweating. In bones, medullary tumors can weaken the structure, causing pain, fractures, and potential complications.
Diagnosing medullary tumors usually involves imaging tests like computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), followed by a biopsy to confirm the type and nature of the tumor. Treatment options may vary depending on factors such as the tumor's size, location, stage, and whether it is benign or malignant, but they often involve surgical removal, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these methods.
Common Misspellings for MEDULLARY TUMOR
- nedullary tumor
- kedullary tumor
- jedullary tumor
- mwdullary tumor
- msdullary tumor
- mddullary tumor
- mrdullary tumor
- m4dullary tumor
- m3dullary tumor
- mesullary tumor
- mexullary tumor
- mecullary tumor
- mefullary tumor
- merullary tumor
- meeullary tumor
- medyllary tumor
- medhllary tumor
- medjllary tumor
- medillary tumor
- med8llary tumor
Etymology of MEDULLARY TUMOR
The term "medullary tumor" is derived from the Latin word "medullaris" which means "marrow" or "medulla". The word "tumor" comes from the Latin word "tumor", meaning "a swelling" or "an abnormal growth". Therefore, "medullary tumor" refers to an abnormal growth or swelling that occurs in or affects the medulla, which is the central part of certain structures, organs, or tissues.
