Scirrhous carcinomas, also known as scirrhous tumors or scirrhous cancers, are a type of malignant growth characterized by their dense and hard consistency. Derived from the Greek word "skirros," meaning "hard," and the Latin term "carcinoma," referring to a cancerous tumor, scirrhous carcinomas are characterized by their firm, compact, and fibrous tissue structure.
These tumors typically arise in epithelial tissues, including organs such as the breast, stomach, pancreas, and colon. Scirrhous carcinomas are marked by their invasive nature, infiltrating surrounding tissues and often causing significant damage. They are primarily composed of cancerous cells that are tightly packed together, forming a dense mass.
Histologically, scirrhous carcinomas display increased collagen deposition and fibrous tissue growth, resulting in their characteristic hardness. This dense fibrous stroma obstructs the cancer cells' access to adequate blood supply, leading to poor oxygenation and nutrient supply. As a result, scirrhous carcinomas typically exhibit slow growth and less differentiation, making them more resistant to treatment options such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Clinically, scirrhous carcinomas are associated with a poorer prognosis compared to other cancer types. Due to their tendency to invade surrounding tissues and potential for metastasis, these tumors are often diagnosed at advanced stages, which limits the effectiveness of treatment. Patients with scirrhous carcinomas may experience a variety of symptoms depending on the affected organ, including pain, digestive problems, weight loss, and abnormal growths.
In conclusion, scirrhous carcinomas are malignant tumors characterized by their hard and dense tissue consistency, invasive nature, and resistance to treatment.
