Physicians use many words and phrases to describe the diagnosis, treatment and management of blood disorders and cancer that are unfamiliar to many of our patients. Therefore, HOA has compiled this helpful glossary of medical terms.
Adapted from publications of the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute.
Glossary of Medical Terms
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Palliative treatment:therapy that relieves symptoms such as pain, but does not alter the course of the disease. Peristalsis:progressive contraction and relaxation of the intestines. Primary site:the site in the body where cancer originated. Prognosis:a prediction of the course of the disease. Prosthesis:an artificial substitute for a missing body part.
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