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
 |
Sarcoma:a form of cancer that arises in the supportive tissues such as bone, cartilage, fat, or muscle. Staging:an evaluation of the extent of cancer using exams or tests, which provides the basis for making treatment recommendations. Stomatitis:inflammation and/or sores of the oral mucous membrane resulting from chemotherapy or radiation to the head and neck regions (also known as mucositis). Subcutaneous venous access disk:a device implanted under the skin through which chemotherapy, IV fluids, and blood may be given. It is sometimes called an "implanted port." |