Glossary
Tumor: An abnormal overgrowth of cells. Tumors can be either benign or malignant.Benign growth: A swelling or growth that is not cancerous and does not spread from one part of the body to another.
Cancer: A group of diseases in which malignant cells grow out of control and spread to other parts of the body.
Biopsy: The surgical removal of tissue for microscopic examination to aid in diagnosis.
CAT scan (CT scan): A test using computers and X-rays to create images of various parts of the body.
Chemotherapy: The treatment of cancer with drugs.
MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging): A sophisticated test that provides in-depth images of organs and structures in the body.
Radiation therapy: X-ray treatment that damages or kills cancer cells.
Primary tumor: The original cancer site. For example, breast cancer that has spread to the bone is still called breast cancer.
