NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

The NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms features 8,333 terms related to cancer and medicine.

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414 results found for: E

E7070: A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called sulfonamides.
E7389: A drug used to treat breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and has already been treated with an anthracycline and a taxane (types of anticancer drugs). It is also used to treat liposarcoma (a type of soft tissue sarcoma) that cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients whose cancer has already been treated with an anthracycline. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. E7389 blocks cell growth by stopping cell division and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antitubulin agent. Also called eribulin mesylate and Halaven.
ear acupuncture: listen (… AK-yoo-PUNK-cher); A type of acupuncture in which thin needles are inserted at specific points on the outer ear to control pain and other symptoms. It is thought that the outer ear contains a “map” of the whole body and that specific points on this map match up with certain parts of the body. Also called auricular acupuncture.
early menopause: listen (ER-lee MEH-nuh-pawz); A condition in which the ovaries stop working and menstrual periods stop before age 40. This can cause fertility problems and symptoms of menopause. There are two types of early menopause, primary and secondary. Primary early menopause means that the ovaries do not function normally. This may be because they have been removed by surgery, or it may be caused by some cancer treatments and certain diseases or genetic conditions. In secondary early menopause, the ovaries are normal but there is a problem getting hormone signals to them from the brain. This is usually caused by diseases of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. Some women with early menopause sometimes have menstrual periods and may be able to have children. Also called ovarian failure, ovarian insufficiency, and premature menopause.
early-stage breast cancer: listen (ER-lee-stayj brest KAN-ser); Breast cancer that has not spread beyond the breast or the axillary lymph nodes. This includes ductal carcinoma in situ and stage I, stage IIA, stage IIB, and stage IIIA breast cancers.
early-stage cancer: listen (ER-lee-stayj KAN-ser); A term used to describe cancer that is early in its growth, and may not have spread to other parts of the body. What is called early stage may differ between cancer types.
Eastern red cedar: listen (EE-stern red SEE-der); A type of evergreen tree with hard fragrant wood that is a member of the cypress family. The oil from the wood is used in soaps, shampoos, bath salts, perfumes, aromatherapy, and to keep insects away. The scientific name is Juniperus virginiana. Also called cedarwood and red cedar.
EBV: A common virus that remains dormant in most people. It causes infectious mononucleosis and has been associated with certain cancers, including Burkitt lymphoma, immunoblastic lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Also called Epstein-Barr virus.
ecchymosis: listen (EH-kih-MOH-sis); A small bruise caused by blood leaking from broken blood vessels into the tissues of the skin or mucous membranes.
eccrine gland: listen (EK-rin ...); A type of simple sweat gland that is found in almost all regions of the skin. These glands produce sweat that reaches the surface of the skin by way of coiled ducts (tubes). The body is cooled as sweat evaporates from the skin.
ECD: A very rare disorder in which too many histiocytes (a type of white blood cell) build up in certain tissues and organs and damage them. ECD most often affects the long bones of the arms and legs, but it can also affect the skin, lungs, heart, kidneys, brain, tissue behind the eyes, and the retroperitoneum (the back wall of the abdomen). The symptoms can range from mild to severe and life-threatening. ECD is most common in adults. It is a type of histiocytosis. Also called Erdheim-Chester disease.
ECG: A line graph that shows changes in the electrical activity of the heart over time. It is made by an instrument called an electrocardiograph. The graph can show that there are abnormal conditions, such as blocked arteries, changes in electrolytes (particles with electrical charges), and changes in the way electrical currents pass through the heart tissue. Also called EKG and electrocardiogram.
echinacea: listen (EH-kih-NAY-shuh); An herb native to North America that has been used to prevent and treat the common cold and other respiratory infections. Echinacea may interfere with treatment that uses the immune system to fight cancer. The scientific names are Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia. Also called purple coneflower.
echocardiogram: listen (EH-koh-KAR-dee-oh-gram); A computer picture of the heart created by bouncing high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) off internal tissues or organs of the chest. Echocardiograms show the size, shape, and position of the heart. They also show the parts inside the heart, such as the valves, and the motion of the heart while it is beating. An echocardiogram may be used to help diagnose heart problems, such as abnormal heart valves and heart rhythms, damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack, and heart murmurs. Echocardiograms can also show an infection on or around the heart valves, blood clots or tumors inside the heart, and fluid buildup in the sac around the heart.
echocardiography: listen (EH-koh-KAR-dee-AH-gruh-fee); A procedure that uses high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) to look at tissues and organs inside the chest. Echoes from the sound waves form a picture of the size, shape, and position of the heart on a computer screen (echocardiogram). The pictures can also show the parts of the inside of the heart, such as the valves, and the motion of the heart while it is beating. Echocardiography may be used to help diagnose heart problems, such as abnormal heart valves and heart rhythms, heart murmurs, and damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack. It may also be used to check for an infection on or around the heart valves, blood clots or tumors inside the heart, and fluid buildup in the sac around the heart.
e-cigarette: listen (… SIH-guh-ret); A device that has the shape of a cigarette, cigar, or pen and does not contain tobacco. It uses a battery and contains a solution of nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals, some of which may be harmful. When e-cigarettes are used, the nicotine solution turns into a mist that can be inhaled into the lungs. The amount of nicotine in individual e-cigarettes can vary. It is not yet known whether e-cigarettes are safe or if they can be used to help smokers quit smoking. Also called electronic cigarette.
ecologic study: listen (EE-kuh-LAH-jik STUH-dee); A study that compares large groups of people instead of individuals for differences in things such as cancer rates. The groups can differ by location (for example, city, county, or country). They can also differ by time (a few days, years, or decades). Groups can be immigrants (compared with people who are native to the country) or people with different types of jobs. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program conducts ecologic studies to collect information on cancer rates over time in certain parts of the United States. Also called ecological study.
ecological study: listen (EE-kuh-LAH-jih-kul STUH-dee); A study that compares large groups of people instead of individuals for differences in things such as cancer rates. The groups can differ by location (for example, city, county, or country). They can also differ by time (a few days, years, or decades). Groups can be immigrants (compared with people who are native to the country) or people with different types of jobs. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program conducts ecological studies to collect information on cancer rates over time in certain parts of the United States. Also called ecologic study.
economic burden: listen (eh-kuh-NAH-mik BUR-den); In medicine, a term used to describe problems a patient has related to the cost of medical care. Not having health insurance or having a lot of costs for medical care not covered by health insurance can cause financial problems and may lead to debt and bankruptcy. Economic burden can also affect a patient’s quality of life and access to medical care. For example, a patient may not take a prescription medicine or may avoid going to the doctor to save money. Cancer patients are more likely to have economic burden than people without cancer. Also called economic hardship, financial burden, financial distress, financial hardship, financial stress, and financial toxicity.
economic hardship: listen (eh-kuh-NAH-mik HARD-ship); In medicine, a term used to describe problems a patient has related to the cost of medical care. Not having health insurance or having a lot of costs for medical care not covered by health insurance can cause financial problems and may lead to debt and bankruptcy. Economic hardship can also affect a patient’s quality of life and access to medical care. For example, a patient may not take a prescription medicine or may avoid going to the doctor to save money. Cancer patients are more likely to have economic hardship than people without cancer. Also called economic burden, financial burden, financial distress, financial hardship, financial stress, and financial toxicity.
ECT: A treatment for severe depression and certain mental disorders. A brief seizure is induced by giving electrical stimulation to the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp. Also called electroconvulsive therapy and electroshock therapy.
ecteinascidin 743: listen (ek-TIH-nuh-SY-din …); A drug used to treat liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma (types of soft tissue sarcoma) that cannot be removed by surgery or have spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients who were treated with other anticancer drugs. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Ecteinascidin 743 may kill cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing. It is a type of alkylating agent. Also called ET-743, trabectedin, and Yondelis.
ectocervical: listen (EK-toh-SER-vih-kul); Having to do with the part of the cervix that protrudes into the vagina and is lined with epithelial cells.
ectomesenchymoma: listen (EK-toh-MEH-zen-ky-MOH-muh); A rare, fast-growing tumor of the nervous system or soft tissue that occurs in children and young adults. Ectomesenchymomas may form in the head and neck, abdomen, perineum, scrotum, or limbs. Also called malignant ectomesenchymoma.
ectopic pregnancy: listen (ek-TAH-pik PREG-nun-see); A condition in which a fertilized egg grows outside of the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. Symptoms include sharp pain on one side of the abdomen and bleeding from the vagina. Also called extrauterine pregnancy.
eculizumab: listen (ek-yoo-LIH-zoo-mab); A drug used to prevent red blood cells from being destroyed in patients with a rare red blood cell disorder called paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). It is also used to treat another rare disorder called atypical hemolytic urea syndrome (aHUS), in which blood clots form in small blood vessels. Eculizumab binds to an immune system protein called C5. This helps keep red blood cells from breaking down and helps keep blood clots from forming. Eculizumab is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called Soliris.
eczema: listen (EK-zeh-muh); A group of conditions in which the skin becomes inflamed, forms blisters, and becomes crusty, thick, and scaly. Eczema causes burning and itching, and may occur over a long period of time. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema.
edatrexate: listen (EH-duh-TREK-sayt); An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called antimetabolites.
edema: listen (eh-DEE-muh); Swelling caused by excess fluid in body tissues.
edetic acid: listen (eh-DEH-tik A-sid); A chemical that binds certain metal ions, such as calcium, magnesium, lead, and iron. It is used in medicine to prevent blood samples from clotting and to remove calcium and lead from the body. It is also used to keep bacteria from forming a biofilm (thin layer stuck to a surface). It is a type of chelating agent. Also called EDTA and etheylenediaminetetraacetic acid.
edotecarin: listen (eh-doh-TEH-kar-in); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of topoisomerase I inhibitor. Also called J-107088.
edrecolomab: listen (EH-dreh-KOH-loh-mab); A type of monoclonal antibody used in cancer detection or therapy. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells.
EDTA: A chemical that binds certain metal ions, such as calcium, magnesium, lead, and iron. It is used in medicine to prevent blood samples from clotting and to remove calcium and lead from the body. It is also used to keep bacteria from forming a biofilm (thin layer stuck to a surface). It is a type of chelating agent. Also called edetic acid and etheylenediaminetetraacetic acid.
Edwards syndrome: listen (ED-wurdz SIN-drome); A genetic disorder caused by having an extra chromosome 18 in some or all of the body’s cells. Edwards syndrome is marked by a low birth weight and certain abnormal features. These include a small, abnormally shaped head; a small jaw and mouth; clenched fists with overlapping fingers; and heart, lung, kidney, intestine, and stomach defects. Many babies with Edwards syndrome die before birth or within the first month of life, but some children live for several years. Having Edwards syndrome increases the risk of certain types of cancer, such as hepatoblastoma (a type of liver cancer) and Wilms tumor (a type of kidney cancer). Also called trisomy 18.
EEG: A recording of electrical activity in the brain. It is made by placing electrodes on the scalp (the skin covering the top of the head), and impulses are sent to a special machine. An EEG may be used to diagnose brain and sleep disorders. Also called electroencephalogram.
EEG biofeedback: listen (… BY-oh-FEED-bak); A treatment being studied to improve brain function in certain brain disorders and in patients treated with chemotherapy for breast cancer. Sensors are placed on a person’s head, which allows brain activity to be shown as patterns on a computer screen. A beep or a tone may be used as a reward to a person for changing certain brain activities. EEG biofeedback may help cancer patients deal with the stress and mental side effects of chemotherapy. Also called neurofeedback.
EF5: A drug that is used to plan cancer treatment by measuring oxygen levels in tumor cells.
efaproxiral: listen (eh-fuh-PROK-sih-rul); A substance being studied in the treatment of brain tumors and some other types of cancer. It increases the amount of oxygen in tumor tissues, which may make the tumor cells easier to kill with radiation therapy. Efaproxiral is a type of radiosensitizing agent. Also called RSR13.
efavirenz: listen (ee-FAH-vih-renz); A drug used with other drugs to treat infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It blocks HIV from making copies of itself. It is a type of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor and a type of antiviral agent. Also called Sustiva.
effector cell: listen (eh-FEK-ter sel); A cell that performs a specific function in response to a stimulus; usually used to describe cells in the immune system.
Effexor: listen (eh-FEK-sor); A drug used to treat depression and certain anxiety disorders. It may also be used to treat hot flashes in women who are in menopause or are being treated for breast cancer. Effexor increases the levels of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve mood. It is a type of antidepressant and a type of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Also called venlafaxine.
efficacy: listen (EH-fih-kuh-see); Effectiveness. In medicine, the ability of an intervention (for example, a drug or surgery) to produce the desired beneficial effect.
effusion: listen (eh-FYOO-zhun); An abnormal collection of fluid in hollow spaces or between tissues of the body. For example, a pleural effusion is a collection of fluid between the two layers of membrane covering the lungs.
eflornithine: listen (eh-FLOR-nih-theen); A substance that is being studied in the prevention of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called antiprotozoals.
EFS: In cancer, the length of time after primary treatment for a cancer ends that the patient remains free of certain complications or events that the treatment was intended to prevent or delay. These events may include the return of the cancer or the onset of certain symptoms, such as bone pain from cancer that has spread to the bone. In a clinical trial, measuring the EFS is one way to see how well a new treatment works. Also called event-free survival.
EFTs: A group of cancers that includes Ewing tumor of bone (ETB or Ewing sarcoma of bone), extraosseous Ewing (EOE) tumors, primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET or peripheral neuroepithelioma), and Askin tumors (PNET of the chest wall). These tumors all come from the same type of stem cell. Also called Ewing sarcoma family of tumors.
Efudex: listen (EH-fyoo-dex); A drug used as a cream to treat actinic keratosis (a skin condition that may become cancer). It is also used as a cream to treat basal cell skin cancer that is superficial (not invasive) and cannot be treated with other therapy. Efudex stops cells from making DNA and may kill cancer cells. It contains the active ingredient fluorouracil. Efudex is a type of antimetabolite.
EGb761: A substance that is being studied in the prevention of cognitive dysfunction (slowed ability to think, reason, concentrate, or remember) in patients receiving chemotherapy. It comes from ginkgo biloba leaves.
EGCG: A substance found in green tea. It is being studied in the prevention of cancer and some other diseases. It is a type of antioxidant. Also called epigallocatechin-3-gallate.
EGF: A protein made by many cells in the body and by some types of tumors. It causes cells to grow and differentiate (become more specialized). It is a type of growth factor and a type of cytokine. Also called epidermal growth factor.
EGFR: The protein found on the surface of some cells and to which epidermal growth factor binds, causing the cells to divide. It is found at abnormally high levels on the surface of many types of cancer cells, so these cells may divide excessively in the presence of epidermal growth factor. Also called epidermal growth factor receptor, ErbB1, and HER1.
EGFR inhibitor: listen (... in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that blocks the activity of a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR is found on the surface of some normal cells and is involved in cell growth. It may also be found at high levels on some types of cancer cells, which causes these cells to grow and divide. Blocking EGFR may keep cancer cells from growing. Some EGFR inhibitors are used to treat cancer. Also called EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor, and epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor: listen (... TY-ruh-seen KY-nays in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that blocks the activity of a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR is found on the surface of some normal cells and is involved in cell growth. It may also be found at high levels on some types of cancer cells, which causes these cells to grow and divide. Blocking EGFR may keep cancer cells from growing. Some EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors are used to treat cancer. Also called EGFR inhibitor, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor, and epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
egg banking: listen (... BANK-ing); The process of freezing one or more unfertilized eggs (eggs that have not been combined with sperm) to save them for future use. The eggs are thawed and fertilized in the laboratory to make embryos that can be placed in a woman’s uterus. Egg banking is being studied as a type of fertility preservation. It may be useful for women with cancer who want to have children after having radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or certain types of surgery, which can cause infertility. Also called egg cryopreservation, egg freezing, and oocyte cryopreservation.
egg cryopreservation: listen (… KRY-oh-PREH-zer-VAY-shun); The process of freezing one or more unfertilized eggs (eggs that have not been combined with sperm) to save them for future use. The eggs are thawed and fertilized in the laboratory to make embryos that can be placed in a woman’s uterus. Egg cryopreservation is being studied as a type of fertility preservation. It may be useful for women with cancer who want to have children after having radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or certain types of surgery, which can cause infertility. Also called egg banking, egg freezing, and oocyte cryopreservation.
egg freezing: listen (… FREE-zing); The process of freezing one or more unfertilized eggs (eggs that have not been combined with sperm) to save them for future use. The eggs are thawed and fertilized in the laboratory to make embryos that can be placed in a woman’s uterus. Egg freezing is being studied as a type of fertility preservation. It may be useful for women with cancer who want to have children after having radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or certain types of surgery, which can cause infertility. Also called egg banking, egg cryopreservation, and oocyte cryopreservation.
EHR: An electronic (digital) collection of medical information about a person that is stored on a computer. An EHR includes information about a patient’s health history, such as diagnoses, medicines, tests, allergies, immunizations, and treatment plans. EHRs can be seen by all healthcare providers who are taking care of a patient and can be used by them to help make recommendations about the patient’s care. Also called electronic health record and electronic medical record.
ejaculation: listen (eh-JAK-yoo-LAY-shun); The release of semen through the penis during orgasm.
EKB-569: A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. It blocks the action of certain proteins that are part of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family of proteins. These proteins may be found in increased amounts on the surface of some types of cancer cells. Blocking the action of these proteins may stop cancer cells from growing and may kill cancer cells. EKB-569 is a type of EGFR inhibitor. Also called pelitinib.
EKG: A line graph that shows changes in the electrical activity of the heart over time. It is made by an instrument called an electrocardiograph. The graph can show that there are abnormal conditions, such as blocked arteries, changes in electrolytes (particles with electrical charges), and changes in the way electrical currents pass through the heart tissue. Also called ECG and electrocardiogram.
Eklund displacement views: listen (EH-klund dis-PLAYS-ment vyooz); A procedure used to do a mammogram (x-ray of the breasts) in women with breast implants. The implant is pushed back against the chest wall and the breast tissue is pulled forward and around it so the tissue can be seen in the mammogram. Also called Eklund views and implant displacement views.
Eklund views: listen (EH-klund vyooz); A procedure used to do a mammogram (x-ray of the breasts) in women with breast implants. The implant is pushed back against the chest wall and the breast tissue is pulled forward and around it so the tissue can be seen in the mammogram. Also called Eklund displacement views and implant displacement views.
Elacyt: listen (EH-luh-SITE); A drug used to treat advanced acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It is a form of the anticancer drug cytarabine that may work in patients with leukemia that is resistant to cytarabine. Elacyt blocks cell division and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimetabolite. Also called CP-4055 and elacytarabine.
elacytarabine: listen (EH-luh-sy-TAYR-uh-been); A drug used to treat advanced acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It is a form of the anticancer drug cytarabine that may work in patients with leukemia that is resistant to cytarabine. Elacytarabine blocks cell division and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimetabolite. Also called CP-4055 and Elacyt.
electroacupuncture: listen (ee-LEK-troh-AK-yoo-PUNK-cher); A procedure in which pulses of weak electrical current are sent through acupuncture needles into acupuncture points in the skin. This procedure is being studied in the prevention of nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
electrocardiogram: listen (ee-LEK-troh-KAR-dee-oh-gram); A line graph that shows changes in the electrical activity of the heart over time. It is made by an instrument called an electrocardiograph. The graph can show that there are abnormal conditions, such as blocked arteries, changes in electrolytes (particles with electrical charges), and changes in the way electrical currents pass through the heart tissue. Also called ECG and EKG.
electrocautery: listen (ee-LEK-troh-KAW-teh-ree); A procedure that uses heat from an electric current to destroy abnormal tissue, such as a tumor or other lesion. It may also be used to control bleeding during surgery or after an injury. The electric current passes through an electrode that is placed on or near the tissue. The tip of the electrode is heated by the electric current to burn or destroy the tissue. Electrocautery is a type of electrosurgery. Also called electrocoagulation, electrofulguration, and fulguration.
electrocoagulation: listen (ee-LEK-troh-koh-A-gyuh-LAY-shun); A procedure that uses heat from an electric current to destroy abnormal tissue, such as a tumor or other lesion. It may also be used to control bleeding during surgery or after an injury. The electric current passes through an electrode that is placed on or near the tissue. The tip of the electrode is heated by the electric current to burn or destroy the tissue. Electrocoagulation is a type of electrosurgery. Also called electrocautery, electrofulguration, and fulguration.
electroconvulsive therapy: listen (ee-LEK-troh-kun-VUL-siv THAYR-uh-pee); A treatment for severe depression and certain mental disorders. A brief seizure is induced by giving electrical stimulation to the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp. Also called ECT and electroshock therapy.
electrode: listen (ee-LEK-trode); In medicine, a device such as a small metal plate or needle that carries electricity from an instrument to a patient for treatment or surgery. Electrodes can also carry electrical signals from muscles, brain, heart, skin, or other body parts to recording devices to help diagnose certain conditions.
electrodermal response: listen (ee-LEK-troh-DER-mul reh-SPONTS); A change in the heat and electricity passed through the skin by nerves and sweat. Electrodermal response increases in certain emotional states and during hot flashes that happen with menopause. Also called galvanic skin response and skin conduction.
electrodesiccation: listen (ee-LEK-troh-deh-sih-KAY-shun); The drying of tissue by a high-frequency electric current applied with a needle-shaped electrode.
electrodiathermy: listen (ee-LEK-troh-DY-uh-THER-mee); A procedure in which tissue is heated to destroy abnormal cells. The heat may come from electric currents, microwaves, radio waves, or ultrasound. Electrodiathermy is a type of hyperthermia therapy. Also called diathermy.
electroencephalogram: listen (ee-LEK-troh-en-SEH-fuh-loh-gram); A recording of electrical activity in the brain. It is made by placing electrodes on the scalp (the skin covering the top of the head), and impulses are sent to a special machine. An EEG may be used to diagnose brain and sleep disorders. Also called EEG.
electrofulguration: listen (ee-LEK-troh-ful-guh-RAY-shun); A procedure that uses heat from an electric current to destroy abnormal tissue, such as a tumor or other lesion. It may also be used to control bleeding during surgery or after an injury. The electric current passes through an electrode that is placed on or near the tissue. The tip of the electrode is heated by the electric current to burn or destroy the tissue. Electrofulguration is a type of electrosurgery. Also called electrocautery, electrocoagulation, and fulguration.
electrolarynx: listen (ee-LEK-troh-LAYR-inx); A battery-operated device that makes a humming sound. It is used to help a person talk after removal of the larynx (voice box).
electrolyte: listen (ee-LEK-troh-lite); A substance that breaks up into ions (particles with electrical charges) when it is dissolved in water or body fluids. Some examples of ions are sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and phosphate. These ions help move nutrients into cells, help move waste out of cells, and help nerves, muscles, the heart, and the brain work the way they should.
electromagnetic field: listen (ee-LEK-troh-mag-NEH-tik feeld); An area of electric and magnetic forces caused by electromagnetic radiation. Researchers are studying whether the electromagnetic fields from power lines, electrical appliances, and wireless and cellular telephones can cause cancer or other harmful health effects. Also called EMF.
electromagnetic radiation: listen (ee-LEK-troh-mag-NEH-tik ray-dee-AY-shun); Radiation that has both electric and magnetic fields and travels in waves. It comes from natural and man-made sources. Electromagnetic radiation can vary in strength from low energy to high energy. It includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared light, visible light, ultraviolet light, x-rays, and gamma rays. Also called EMR.
electromagnetic spectrum: listen (ee-LEK-troh-mag-NEH-tik SPEK-trum); The complete range of all types of radiation that has both electric and magnetic fields and travels in waves. The electromagnetic spectrum ranges from low-energy, low-frequency radiation that travels in long waves (such as radio waves and microwaves) to high-energy, high-frequency radiation that travels in short waves (such as x-rays and gamma rays).
electron: listen (ee-LEK-tron); A small particle with a negative charge that is found in all atoms. Streams of electrons made by special equipment can be used for radiation treatment.
electron beam: listen (ee-LEK-tron beem); A stream of electrons (small negatively charged particles found in atoms) that can be used for radiation therapy.
electron microscope: listen (ee-LEK-tron MY-kroh-SKOPE); A microscope (device used to magnify small objects) that uses electrons (instead of light) to produce an enlarged image. An electron microscope shows tiny details better than any other type of microscope.
electronic cigarette: listen (eh-lek-TRAH-nik SIH-guh-ret); A device that has the shape of a cigarette, cigar, or pen and does not contain tobacco. It uses a battery and contains a solution of nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals, some of which may be harmful. When electronic cigarettes are used, the nicotine solution turns into a mist that can be inhaled into the lungs. The amount of nicotine in individual e-cigarettes can vary. It is not yet known whether electronic cigarettes are safe or if they can be used to help smokers quit smoking. Also called e-cigarette.
electronic health record: listen (eh-lek-TRAH-nik helth REH-kurd); An electronic (digital) collection of medical information about a person that is stored on a computer. An electronic health record includes information about a patient’s health history, such as diagnoses, medicines, tests, allergies, immunizations, and treatment plans. Electronic health records can be seen by all healthcare providers who are taking care of a patient and can be used by them to help make recommendations about the patient’s care. Also called EHR and electronic medical record.
electronic medical record: listen (eh-lek-TRAH-nik MEH-dih-kul REH-kurd); An electronic (digital) collection of medical information about a person that is stored on a computer. An electronic medical record includes information about a patient’s health history, such as diagnoses, medicines, tests, allergies, immunizations, and treatment plans. Electronic medical records can be seen by all healthcare providers who are taking care of a patient and can be used by them to help make recommendations about the patient’s care. Also called EHR and electronic health record.
electrophoresis: listen (ee-LEK-troh-for-EE-sis); A laboratory technique that uses an electric current to separate substances, such as proteins or nucleic acids. The size and electrical charge (either positive or negative) of a substance determines how far it moves with the current. Electrophoresis may be used to help diagnosis certain diseases. There are many different types of electrophoresis.
electroporation therapy: listen (ee-LEK-troh-por-AY-shun THAYR-uh-pee); Treatment that generates electrical pulses through an electrode placed in a tumor to enhance the ability of anticancer drugs to enter tumor cells. Also called EPT.
electroshock therapy: listen (ee-LEK-troh-shok THAYR-uh-pee); A treatment for severe depression and certain mental disorders. A brief seizure is induced by giving electrical stimulation to the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp. Also called ECT and electroconvulsive therapy.
electrosurgery: listen (ee-LEK-troh-SER-juh-ree); A procedure that uses an electric current to cut, remove, or destroy tissue and control bleeding. The current is carried through an electrode that is placed on or near the tissue. Electrosurgery may be used to treat basal cell skin cancer or other types of skin problems, such as actinic keratoses, warts, and moles. It may also be used to remove abnormal cells from the cervix and to treat abnormal tissue of the vagina, vulva, penis, and anus that might become cancer. Examples of electrosurgery are electrodesiccation and fulguration.
element: listen (EH-leh-ment); A basic part of a whole. In chemistry, refers to a simple substance that cannot be broken down into smaller parts or changed into another substance. The basic part of an element is an atom, which contains protons, neutrons, and electrons. All atoms of an element have the same number of protons. Examples of elements are hydrogen, carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, and calcium.
elesclomol sodium: listen (eh-les-KLOH-mol SOH-dee-um); A drug used in the treatment of skin cancer that has spread. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It increases the amount of harmful oxygen molecules in cells and may kill cancer cells. It may also help other drugs kill cancer cells. It is a type of oxidative stress inducer.
ELF-EMF: A type of very low-energy radiation that travels in long waves. Although there have been health concerns, it is not known to cause harmful health effects, including cancer. The most common sources of ELF-EMFs are power lines, electrical wiring, and electrical appliances, such as shavers, hair dryers, and electric blankets. Also called extremely low frequency electromagnetic field.
Eligard: listen (EH-lih-gard); A drug used to treat advanced prostate cancer. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Eligard keeps the testicles from making testosterone by blocking other hormones that are needed to make it. This may stop the growth of cancer cells that need testosterone to grow. Eligard is a type of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist. Also called leuprolide acetate, Lupron, and Lupron Depot.
eligibility criteria: listen (EH-lih-jih-BIH-lih-tee kry-TEER-ee-uh); In clinical trials, requirements that must be met for a person to be included in a trial. These requirements help make sure that participants in a trial are like each other in terms of specific factors such as age, type and stage of cancer, general health, and previous treatment. When all participants meet the same eligibility criteria, it is more likely that results of the study are caused by the intervention being tested and not by other factors or by chance.
ELISA: listen (ee-LY-suh); A laboratory technique that uses antibodies linked to enzymes to detect and measure the amount of a substance in a solution, such as serum. The test is done using a solid surface to which the antibodies and other molecules stick. In the final step, an enzyme reaction takes place that causes a color change that can be read using a special machine. There are many different ways that an ELISA can be done. ELISAs may be used to help diagnose certain diseases. Also called enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Elitek: listen (EH-lih-tek); A drug used to treat high blood levels of uric acid in patients with leukemia, lymphoma, and other types of cancer who are receiving certain types of cancer treatment. It is also being studied in the treatment of other medical conditions. Elitek is a type of recombinant enzyme and a type of urate-lowering drug. Also called rasburicase and recombinant urate oxidase.
Ellence: listen (eh-LENTS); A drug used with other drugs to treat breast cancer that was removed by surgery. It is used in patients whose cancer has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Ellence blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called epirubicin and epirubicin hydrochloride.
Elocon: listen (EH-loh-kon); A drug that is used in a cream to treat certain skin conditions and in a nasal spray to treat sinus problems caused by allergies. It is being studied as a way to treat inflammation of the skin caused by radiation therapy. Elocon is a type of corticosteroid. Also called mometasone, mometasone furoate, and Nasonex.
elotuzumab: listen (EH-loh-TOO-zoo-mab); A drug used with lenalidomide and dexamethasone to treat multiple myeloma. It is used in patients whose cancer was treated with one to three anticancer therapies. Elotuzumab binds to a protein called CS1, which is found on myeloma cells and some types of immune cells. Elotuzumab may block CS1 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called Empliciti and HuLuc63.
Eloxatin: listen (eh-LOK-sah-tin); A drug used with other drugs to treat stage III colon cancer that was removed by surgery and colorectal cancer that is advanced. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Eloxatin damages the cell’s DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of platinum compound. Also called oxaliplatin.
Elspar: listen (EL-spar); A drug that is used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and is being studied in the treatment of some other types of cancer. It is an enzyme taken from the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli). It breaks down the amino acid asparagine and may block the growth of tumor cells that need asparagine to grow. Also called asparaginase and L-asparaginase.
eltrombopag olamine: listen (el-TROM-boh-pag OH-luh-meen); A drug used to treat thrombocytopenia (a lower-than-normal number of platelets in the blood) in patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (a condition in which platelets are destroyed by the immune system). It is used in patients who did not get better with corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, or surgery to remove the spleen. Eltrombopag olamine is also used to treat severe aplastic anemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other conditions and types of cancer. Eltrombopag olamine causes more platelets to be made in the bone marrow. It is a type of thrombopoietin receptor agonist. Also called Promacta.
Elzonris: (el-ZON-ris); A drug used to treat a rare blood cancer called blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Elzonris is made up of interleukin-3 (IL-3), which binds to an IL-3 receptor protein called CD123. CD123 may be found in higher than normal amounts on some types of cancer cells. Elzonris is also made up of a diphtheria toxin, which may help kill cancer cells. Elzonris is a type of cytotoxin. Also called tagraxofusp.
EM-1421: A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It blocks proteins needed for cancer growth. It is a type of transcriptional inhibitor. Also called tetra-O-methyl NDGA and tetra-O-methyl nordihydroguaiaretic acid.
emapalumab: (EH-muh-PAL-yoo-mab); A drug used to treat a rare immune system disorder called primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) that came back, got worse, or did not get better with other therapy. It is also used in patients who cannot be treated with other therapy. Emapalumab binds to an immune system protein called interferon gamma, which is found at higher than normal levels in patients with HLH. This may help lower the body’s immune response and reduce inflammation. Emapalumab is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called Gamifant.
embalmer: listen (em-BAL-mer); A person who treats dead bodies with embalming fluid (a chemical like formaldehyde) to keep them from decaying.
embolism: listen (EM-boh-lih-zum); A block in an artery caused by blood clots or other substances, such as fat globules, infected tissue, or cancer cells.
embolization: listen (EM-boh-lih-ZAY-shun); A procedure that uses particles, such as tiny gelatin sponges or beads, to block a blood vessel. Embolization may be used to stop bleeding or to block the flow of blood to a tumor or abnormal area of tissue. It may be used to treat some types of liver cancer, kidney cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors. It may also be used to treat uterine fibroids, aneurysms, and other conditions. Types of embolization are arterial embolization, chemoembolization, and radioembolization.
embryo: listen (EM-bree-oh); Early stage in the development of humans and other animals or plants. In animals that have a backbone or spinal column, this stage lasts from shortly after fertilization until all major body parts appear. In particular, in humans, this stage lasts from about 2 weeks after fertilization until the end of the seventh or eighth week of pregnancy.
embryo banking: listen (EM-bree-oh BANK-ing); The process of freezing one or more embryos to save them for future use. Embryo banking involves in vitro fertilization, a procedure in which eggs are removed from a woman’s ovary and combined with sperm in the laboratory to form embryos. The embryos are frozen and can later be thawed and placed in a woman’s uterus. Embryo banking is a type of fertility preservation. It may be useful for women with cancer who want to have children after having radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or certain types of surgery, which can cause infertility. Also called embryo cryopreservation and embryo freezing.
embryo cryopreservation: listen (EM-bree-oh KRY-oh-PREH-zer-VAY-shun); The process of freezing one or more embryos to save them for future use. Embryo cryopreservation involves in vitro fertilization, a procedure in which eggs are removed from a woman’s ovary and combined with sperm in the laboratory to form embryos. The embryos are frozen and can later be thawed and placed in a woman’s uterus. Embryo cryopreservation is a type of fertility preservation. It may be useful for women with cancer who want to have children after having radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or certain types of surgery, which can cause infertility. Also called embryo banking and embryo freezing.
embryo freezing: listen (EM-bree-oh FREE-zing); The process of freezing one or more embryos to save them for future use. Embryo freezing involves in vitro fertilization, a procedure in which eggs are removed from a woman’s ovary and combined with sperm in the laboratory to form embryos. The embryos are frozen and can later be thawed and placed in a woman’s uterus. Embryo freezing is a type of fertility preservation. It may be useful for women with cancer who want to have children after having radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or certain types of surgery, which can cause infertility. Also called embryo banking and embryo cryopreservation.
embryoma: listen (EM-bree-OH-muh); A mass of rapidly growing cells that begins in embryonic (fetal) tissue. Embryomas may be benign or malignant, and include neuroblastomas and Wilms tumors. Also called embryonal tumor.
embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma: listen (em-BRY-uh-nul RAB-doh-MY-oh-sar-KOH-muh); A soft tissue tumor that is most common in infants and young children. It begins in muscles, usually in the head, neck, or genitourinary tract. Also called ERMS.
embryonal tumor: listen (em-BRY-uh-nul TOO-mer); A mass of rapidly growing cells that begins in embryonic (fetal) tissue. Embryonal tumors may be benign or malignant, and include neuroblastomas and Wilms tumors. Also called embryoma.
embryonic: listen (EM-bree-AH-nik); Having to do with an embryo, which is an early stage in the development of a plant or animal.
EMD 121974: A substance that is being studied as an anticancer and antiangiogenesis drug. Also called cilengitide.
Emend: listen (ee-MEND); A drug used with other drugs to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. It is also used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery. Emend blocks the action of a certain chemical in the brain that may trigger nausea and vomiting. Blocking this chemical may lessen nausea and vomiting. Emend is a type of antiemetic and a type of substance P/neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist. Also called aprepitant.
Emend for Injection: listen (ee-MEND ... in-JEK-shun); A drug used together with other drugs to prevent and control nausea and vomiting caused by cancer treatment. It is given in a vein. It is a type of antiemetic and a type of substance P/neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist. Also called fosaprepitant dimeglumine.
emesis: listen (EH-meh-sis); Vomiting.
emetic: listen (eh-MEH-tik); Describes a substance that causes vomiting. Also called emetogenic.
emetogenic: listen (eh-MEH-toh-JEH-nik); Describes a substance that causes vomiting. Also called emetic.
EMF: An area of electric and magnetic forces caused by electromagnetic radiation. Researchers are studying whether the EMFs from power lines, electrical appliances, and wireless and cellular telephones can cause cancer or other harmful health effects. Also called electromagnetic field.
emitefur: listen (eh-MIH-teh-fur); An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
emodin: listen (EH-moh-din); A substance found in certain plants, including rhubarb. It belongs to a family of compounds called anthraquinones, which have shown anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.
emollient: listen (eh-MOL-ee-unt); A substance that helps soothe, soften, and increase moisture levels, especially in the skin. Emollients may be used in a lotion, cream, ointment, or gel to prevent or treat dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and other skin problems, such as rashes or burns. They may also be used to help protect the skin against irritation. Emollients may also be given by mouth to prevent or treat constipation by moistening and softening the stool.
emphysema: listen (EMP-fuh-ZEE-muh); A disorder affecting the alveoli (tiny air sacs) of the lungs. The transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs takes place in the walls of the alveoli. In emphysema, the alveoli become abnormally inflated, damaging their walls and making it harder to breathe. People who smoke or have chronic bronchitis have an increased risk of emphysema. Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Empliciti: listen (em-PLIH-sih-tee); A drug used with lenalidomide and dexamethasone to treat multiple myeloma. It is used in patients whose cancer was treated with one to three anticancer therapies. Empliciti binds to a protein called CS1, which is found on myeloma cells and some types of immune cells. Empliciti may block CS1 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called elotuzumab and HuLuc63.
EMR: Radiation that has both electric and magnetic fields and travels in waves. It comes from natural and man-made sources. EMR can vary in strength from low energy to high energy. It includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared light, visible light, ultraviolet light, x-rays, and gamma rays. Also called electromagnetic radiation.
enalapril: listen (eh-NA-luh-pril); An antihypertensive agent that can also be used to slow or prevent the progression of heart disease in people with childhood cancer treated with drugs that may be harmful to the heart.
enasidenib mesylate: listen (EH-nuh-SIH-deh-nib MEH-zih-layt); A drug used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) that has recurred (come back) or has not gotten better after treatment with other anticancer therapy. It is used in patients whose cancer has a mutated (changed) form of a gene called isocitrate dehydrogenase-2 (IDH2). It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Enasidenib mesylate blocks the protein made by the mutated IDH2 gene. Blocking this protein may help keep cancer cells from growing. Enasidenib mesylate is a type of enzyme inhibitor and a type of targeted therapy. Also called Idhifa.
encapsulated: listen (en-KAP-soo-lay-ted); Confined to a specific, localized area and surrounded by a thin layer of tissue.
encephalopathy: listen (en-SEH-fuh-LAH-puh-thee); A disorder of the brain that can be caused by disease, injury, drugs, or chemicals.
enchondroma: listen (en-kon-DROH-muh); A benign (not cancer) growth of cartilage in bones or in other areas where cartilage is not normally found.
encorafenib: listen (EN-kor-A-feh-nib); A drug used with binimetinib to treat melanoma that cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients whose cancer has a mutated (changed) form of a gene called BRAF. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Encorafenib blocks certain proteins made by the mutated BRAF gene, which may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. It is a type of kinase inhibitor and a type of targeted therapy. Also called Braftovi.
endemic: listen (en-DEH-mik); In medicine, describes a disease that is constantly present in a certain geographic area or in a certain group of people. For example, endemic Burkitt lymphoma (a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma) is seen at constant levels in certain parts of Africa.
endocarditis: listen (EN-doh-kar-DY-tis); A condition in which the tissues lining the inside of the heart and the heart valves become inflamed (red and swollen). Endocarditis may be caused by infection with microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi.
endocervical curettage: listen (en-doh-SER-vih-kul kyoo-reh-TAZH); A procedure in which a sample of abnormal tissue is removed from the cervix using a small, spoon-shaped instrument called a curette. The tissue is then checked under a microscope for signs of cervical cancer. This procedure may be done if abnormal cells are found during a Pap test.
endocervix: listen (EN-doh-SER-vix); The inner part of the cervix that forms a canal that connects the vagina to the uterus. The endocervix is lined with cells that make mucus. During a pelvic exam, cells may be scraped from the endocervix. The cells are checked under a microscope for infection, inflammation, and cancer or changes that may become cancer.
endocrine: listen (EN-doh-krin); Refers to tissue that makes and releases hormones that travel in the bloodstream and control the actions of other cells or organs. Some examples of endocrine tissues are the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands.
endocrine cancer: listen (EN-doh-krin KAN-ser); Cancer that occurs in endocrine tissue, the tissue in the body that secretes hormones.
endocrine gland: listen (EN-doh-krin …); An organ that makes hormones that are released directly into the blood and travel to tissues and organs all over the body. Endocrine glands help control many body functions, including growth and development, metabolism, and fertility. Some examples of endocrine glands are the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands.
endocrine pancreas cell: listen (EN-doh-krin PAN-kree-us sel); A pancreatic cell that produces hormones (e.g., insulin and glucagon) that are secreted into the bloodstream. These hormones help control the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Also called islet cell and islet of Langerhans cell.
endocrine system: listen (EN-doh-krin SIS-tem); A system of glands and cells that make hormones that are released directly into the blood and travel to tissues and organs all over the body. The endocrine system controls growth, sexual development, sleep, hunger, and the way the body uses food.
endocrine therapy: listen (EN-doh-krin THAYR-uh-pee); Treatment that adds, blocks, or removes hormones. For certain conditions (such as diabetes or menopause), hormones are given to adjust low hormone levels. Hormones can cause certain cancers (such as prostate and breast cancer) to grow. To slow or stop the growth of cancer, synthetic hormones or other drugs may be given to block the body’s natural hormones. Sometimes surgery is needed to remove the gland that makes a certain hormone. Also called hormonal therapy, hormone therapy, and hormone treatment.
endocrine-inactive tumor: listen (EN-doh-krin-in-AK-tiv TOO-mer); A tumor that is found in endocrine tissue but does not make extra hormones. Endocrine-inactive tumors usually do not cause symptoms until they grow large or spread to other parts of the body. Also called nonfunctioning tumor.
endocrinologist: listen (EN-doh-krih-NAH-loh-jist); A doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating disorders of the endocrine system (the glands and organs that make hormones). These disorders include diabetes, infertility, and thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary gland problems.
endocrinology: listen (EN-doh-krih-NAH-loh-jee); A branch of medicine that specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the endocrine system, which includes the glands and organs that make hormones. These disorders include diabetes, infertility, and thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary gland problems.
endodermal sinus tumor: listen (EN-doh-DER-mul SY-nus TOO-mer); A rare type of cancer that begins in germ cells (cells that form sperm or eggs). Endodermal sinus tumors occur most often in the ovary or testicle, but they may also occur in other areas of the body, such as the chest, abdomen, or brain. They tend to grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body if not treated. Endodermal sinus tumors are the most common malignant germ cell tumor in children. Also called yolk sac tumor.
end-of-life care: listen (… kayr); Care given to people who are near the end of life and have stopped treatment to cure or control their disease. End-of-life care includes physical, emotional, social, and spiritual support for patients and their families. The goal of end-of-life care is to control pain and other symptoms so the patient can be as comfortable as possible. End-of-life care may include palliative care, supportive care, and hospice care.
endogenous: listen (en-DAH-jeh-nus); Produced inside an organism or cell. The opposite is external (exogenous) production.
endolymphatic sac: (EN-doh-lim-FA-tik sak); A balloon-shaped structure filled with fluid in the inner ear. The fluid in the endolymphatic sac surrounds and protects the structures in the inner ear that affect hearing and balance. When pressure in the inner ear builds, the endolymphatic sac releases fluid to relieve the pressure. The endolymphatic sac also removes extra fluid and waste products from the inner ear and is involved in the inner ear’s immune response to foreign substances.
endometrial: listen (EN-doh-MEE-tree-ul); Having to do with the endometrium (the layer of tissue that lines the uterus).
endometrial biopsy: listen (EN-doh-MEE-tree-ul BY-op-see); A procedure in which a sample of tissue is taken from the endometrium (inner lining of the uterus) for examination under a microscope. A thin tube is inserted through the cervix into the uterus, and gentle scraping and suction are used to remove the sample.
endometrial cancer: listen (EN-doh-MEE-tree-ul KAN-ser); Cancer that forms in the tissue lining the uterus (the small, hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis in which a fetus develops). Most endometrial cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).
endometrial disorder: listen (EN-doh-MEE-tree-ul dis-OR-der); Abnormal cell growth in the endometrium (the lining of the uterus).
endometrial hyperplasia: listen (EN-doh-MEE-tree-ul HY-per-PLAY-zhuh); An abnormal overgrowth of the endometrium (the layer of cells that lines the uterus). There are four types of endometrial hyperplasia: simple endometrial hyperplasia, complex endometrial hyperplasia, simple endometrial hyperplasia with atypia, and complex endometrial hyperplasia with atypia. These differ in terms of how abnormal the cells are and how likely it is that the condition will become cancer.
endometriosis: listen (EN-doh-MEE-tree-OH-sis); A benign condition in which tissue that looks like endometrial tissue grows in abnormal places in the abdomen.
endometrium: listen (en-doh-MEE-tree-um); The layer of tissue that lines the uterus.
EndoPat: listen (EN-doh-pat); A medical device that tests to see if endothelial cells are damaged. Endothelial cells line the inner walls of blood vessels, lymph vessels, and the heart, and damage to them may be an early sign of heart disease. EndoPat looks for heart disease by using sensors that measure blood flow through a patient’s fingers. It is also being used to check blood vessels in patients treated for breast cancer. Also called Endo-Pat 2000.
Endo-Pat 2000: listen (EN-doh-pat...); A medical device that tests to see if endothelial cells are damaged. Endothelial cells line the inner walls of blood vessels, lymph vessels, and the heart, and damage to them may be an early sign of heart disease. Endo-Pat 2000 looks for heart disease by using sensors that measure blood flow through a patient’s fingers. It is also being used to check blood vessels in patients treated for breast cancer. Also called EndoPat.
endoplasmic reticulum: listen (EN-doh-PLAZ-mik reh-TIH-kyoo-lum); A network of sac-like structures and tubes in the cytoplasm (gel-like fluid) of a cell. Proteins and other molecules move through the endoplasmic reticulum. The outer surface of the endoplasmic reticulum can be smooth or rough. The rough endoplasmic reticulum has many ribosomes on its outer surface and makes proteins the cell needs. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum makes other substances that the cell needs, such as lipids (fats) and carbohydrates (sugars). The endoplasmic reticulum is a cell organelle.
endorectal ultrasound: listen (en-doh-REK-tul UL-truh-sownd); A procedure in which a probe that sends out high-energy sound waves is inserted into the rectum. The sound waves are bounced off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissue called a sonogram. Endorectal ultrasound is used to look for abnormalities in the rectum and nearby structures, including the prostate. Also called ERUS, transrectal ultrasound, and TRUS.
endorphin: listen (en-DOR-fin); One of several substances made in the body that can relieve pain and give a feeling of well-being. Endorphins are peptides (small proteins) that bind to opioid receptors in the central nervous system. An endorphin is a type of neurotransmitter.
endoscope: listen (EN-doh-SKOPE); A thin, tube-like instrument used to look at tissues inside the body. An endoscope has a light and a lens for viewing and may have a tool to remove tissue.
endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: listen (en-doh-SKAH-pik REH-troh-grayd koh-LAN-jee-oh-PAN-kree-uh-TAH-gruh-fee); A procedure that uses an endoscope to examine and x-ray the pancreatic duct, hepatic duct, common bile duct, duodenal papilla, and gallbladder. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. The endoscope is passed through the mouth and down into the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). A smaller tube (catheter) is then inserted through the endoscope into the bile and pancreatic ducts. A dye is injected through the catheter into the ducts, and an x-ray is taken. Also called ERCP.
endoscopic ultrasound: listen (en-doh-SKAH-pik UL-truh-sownd); A procedure in which an endoscope is inserted into the body. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument that has a light and a lens for viewing. A probe at the end of the endoscope is used to bounce high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) off internal organs to make a picture (sonogram). Also called endosonography and EUS.
endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration: listen (en-doh-SKAH-pik UL-truh-sownd-GY-ded … NEE-dul AS-pih-RAY-shun); A procedure to take a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. An endoscope with an ultrasound probe and a biopsy needle at the end is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument that has a light and a lens for viewing. The ultrasound probe is used to bounce high-energy sound waves off internal organs and tissues to make a picture on a monitor. This picture helps the doctor see where to place the biopsy needle. Also called EUS-FNA.
endoscopy: listen (en-DOS-koh-pee); A procedure that uses an endoscope to examine the inside of the body. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. It may also have a tool to remove tissue to be checked under a microscope for signs of disease.
endosonography: listen (EN-doh-soh-NAH-gruh-fee); A procedure in which an endoscope is inserted into the body. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument that has a light and a lens for viewing. A probe at the end of the endoscope is used to bounce high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) off internal organs to make a picture (sonogram). Also called endoscopic ultrasound and EUS.
endostatin: listen (EN-doh-STA-tin); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. Endostatin is made from a type of collagen (a protein found in cartilage and other connective tissue). It may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. Endostatin is a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called COL18A1.
endothelial cell: listen (EN-doh-THEE-lee-ul sel); The main type of cell found in the inside lining of blood vessels, lymph vessels, and the heart.
endothelin receptor antagonist: listen (EN-doh-THEE-lin reh-SEP-ter an-TA-guh-nist); A drug that blocks the hormone endothelin and may prevent prostate cancer from spreading to the bones. It may also prevent the growth and spread of other types of cancer, including colorectal cancer.
endothelin-1 protein receptor antagonist: listen (EN-doh-THEE-lin-1 PROH-teen reh-SEP-ter an-TA-guh-nist); A substance that blocks the binding of the endothelin-1 protein to its receptor. Endothelin-1 is a small molecule that causes changes in blood vessels and helps regulate blood pressure. It can also stimulate the growth of some types of cells.
endpoint: listen (END-poynt); In clinical trials, an event or outcome that can be measured objectively to determine whether the intervention being studied is beneficial. The endpoints of a clinical trial are usually included in the study objectives. Some examples of endpoints are survival, improvements in quality of life, relief of symptoms, and disappearance of the tumor.
end-stage cancer: listen (… stayj KAN-ser); Cancer that cannot be cured and leads to death. Also called terminal cancer.
enema: listen (EH-neh-muh); The injection of a liquid through the anus into the large bowel.
energy balance: listen (EH-ner-jee BA-lunts); In biology, the state at which the number of calories eaten equals the number of calories used. Energy balance is affected by physical activity, body size, amount of body fat and muscle, and genetics.
energy healing: listen (EH-ner-jee HEEL-ing); A form of complementary and alternative medicine based on the belief that a vital energy flows through the human body. The goal of energy healing is to balance the energy flow in the patient. It is used to reduce stress and anxiety and promote well-being. Energy healing is being studied in patients receiving cancer therapy, to find out if it can improve quality of life, boost the immune system, or reduce side effects. Also called energy therapy.
energy therapy: listen (EH-ner-jee THAYR-uh-pee); A form of complementary and alternative medicine based on the belief that a vital energy flows through the human body. The goal of energy therapy is to balance the energy flow in the patient. It is used to reduce stress and anxiety and promote well-being. Energy therapy is being studied in patients receiving cancer therapy, to find out if it can improve quality of life, boost the immune system, or reduce side effects. Also called energy healing.
English chamomile: listen (... KA-muh-mile); A type of chamomile plant with daisy-like white flowers that is found in Europe, North America, and Argentina. The dried flowers are used in teas to calm and relax, to improve sleep, and to help with stomach problems. Its essential oil (scented liquid taken from plants) is used in perfumes, shampoos, face creams, lotions, and aromatherapy. The scientific names are Chamaemelum nobile and Anthemis nobilis. Also called Roman chamomile.
English lavender: listen (ING-lish LA-ven-der); A plant with aromatic leaves and flowers that is a member of the mint family. Oil from the flowers has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems, to keep insects away, and to wash in. It is also used in aromatherapy. Perillyl alcohol, a substance found in English lavender, is being studied in cancer prevention and treatment. The scientific name is Lavandula angustifolia. Also called lavender and true lavender.
eniluracil: listen (EH-nil-YOOR-uh-sil); An anticancer drug that increases the effectiveness of fluorouracil. Also called ethynyluracil.
enoxaparin: listen (ee-NOK-suh-PAYR-in); A drug used to prevent blood clots. It belongs to the family of drugs called anticoagulants.
enriched food: listen (in-RICHT…); A food that has nutrients added back that were lost during processing. Examples are bread, pasta, and other products made from white flour that have B vitamins added back.
Ensure: listen (en-SHER); A type of nutrition drink that may help people who cannot get all the nutrients they need from foods and other drinks. Ensure has vitamins, minerals, protein, and fats. It may be added to a person’s diet to help build strong bones, rebuild muscle and strength, and help the body heal after injury or surgery. Ensure may be taken by mouth or given through tube feeding. Ensure is a type of polymeric enteral nutrition formula and a type of dietary supplement.
ENT doctor: listen (… DOK-ter); A doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. Also called otolaryngologist.
enteral nutrition: listen (EN-teh-rul noo-TRIH-shun); A form of nutrition that is delivered into the digestive system as a liquid. Drinking nutrition beverages or formulas and tubefeeding are forms of enteral nutrition. People who are unable to meet their needs with food and beverages alone, and who do not have vomiting or uncontrollable diarrhea may be given tubefeedings. Tubefeeding can be used to add to what a person is able to eat or can be the only source of nutrition. A small feeding tube may be placed through the nose into the stomach or the small intestine, or it may be surgically placed into the stomach or the intestinal tract through an opening made on the outside of the abdomen, depending on how long it will be used.
enterostomal therapist: listen (EN-teh-roh-STOH-mul THAYR-uh-pist); A health professional trained in the care of persons with stomas, such as colostomies or urostomies.
entinostat: listen (en-tih-NOH-stat); A substance being studied in the treatment of several types of cancer. It blocks enzymes needed for cell division and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. Also called HDAC inhibitor SNDX-275 and SNDX-275.
entrectinib: listen (en-TREK-tih-nib); A substance that blocks certain proteins involved in cell signaling and growth. These proteins may be found in a mutated (changed) form or at high levels in some types of cancer cells. Blocking these proteins may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. Entrectinib is being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a type of targeted therapy.
enucleation: listen (ee-NOO-klee-AY-shun); In medicine, the removal of an organ or tumor in such a way that it comes out clean and whole, like a nut from its shell.
enveloped virus: listen (EN-veh-lupt VY-rus); A virus that has an outer wrapping or envelope. This envelope comes from the infected cell, or host, in a process called "budding off." During the budding process, newly formed virus particles become "enveloped" or wrapped in an outer coat that is made from a small piece of the cell's plasma membrane. The envelope may play a role in helping a virus survive and infect other cells.
environmental tobacco smoke: listen (en-VY-run-MEN-tul tuh-BA-koh ...); Smoke that comes from the burning of a tobacco product and smoke that is exhaled by smokers. Inhaling environmental tobacco smoke is called involuntary or passive smoking. Also called ETS and secondhand smoke.
enzalutamide: listen (EN-zuh-LOO-tuh-mide); A drug used to treat prostate cancer that is castration resistant (has not responded to treatments that lower testosterone levels). Enzalutamide binds to proteins called androgen receptors, which are found in some prostate cancer cells. These proteins bind to androgens (male hormones) and may cause cancer cells to grow. Enzalutamide blocks these proteins and may keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of antiandrogen. Also called Xtandi.
enzastaurin: listen (en-zuh-STAW-rin); A substance being studied in the treatment of certain types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, breast, colon, lung, ovarian, and prostate. Enzastaurin blocks certain cell signaling pathways, and may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of serine threonine kinase inhibitor and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called enzastaurin hydrochloride and LY317615.
enzastaurin hydrochloride: listen (en-zuh-STAW-rin HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A substance being studied in the treatment of certain types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, breast, colon, lung, ovarian, and prostate. Enzastaurin hydrochloride blocks certain cell signaling pathways, and may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of serine threonine kinase inhibitor and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called enzastaurin and LY317615.
enzyme: listen (EN-zime); A protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body.
enzyme inhibitor: listen (EN-zime in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that blocks the action of an enzyme. Enzymes help speed up chemical reactions in the body and take part in many cell functions, including cell signaling, growth, and division. In cancer treatment, enzyme inhibitors may be used to block certain enzymes that cancer cells need to grow.
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay: listen (EN-zime-linkt IH-myoo-noh-SOR-bent A-say); A laboratory technique that uses antibodies linked to enzymes to detect and measure the amount of a substance in a solution, such as serum. The test is done using a solid surface to which the antibodies and other molecules stick. In the final step, an enzyme reaction takes place that causes a color change that can be read using a special machine. There are many different ways that an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay can be done. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays may be used to help diagnose certain diseases. Also called ELISA.
EOB: A summary of the costs of a medical treatment or other healthcare service that an insurance company may send to a patient after the patient has received the service. An EOB usually includes the date the patient received the service, how much the service cost, how much the health insurance plan paid, and how much the patient may need to pay the healthcare provider. Also called explanation of benefits.
eosinophil: listen (EE-oh-SIH-noh-FIL); A type of immune cell that has granules (small particles) with enzymes that are released during infections, allergic reactions, and asthma. An eosinophil is a type of white blood cell and a type of granulocyte.
eosinophilia: listen (EE-oh-SIH-noh-FIH-lee-uh); A condition in which the number of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the blood is greatly increased. Eosinophilia is often a response to infection or allergens (substances that cause an allergic response).
EP-2101: A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called cancer vaccines.
ependyma: listen (eh-PEN-dih-muh); A thin membrane that lines the fluid-filled spaces in the brain and spinal cord. It is made up of a type of glial cell called an ependymal cell.
ependymal cell: listen (eh-PEN-dih-mul sel); A cell that forms the lining of the fluid-filled spaces in the brain and spinal cord. It is a type of glial cell.
ependymal tumor: listen (eh-PEN-dih-mul TOO-mer); A type of brain tumor that begins in cells lining the spinal cord central canal (fluid-filled space down the center) or the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces of the brain). Ependymal tumors may also form in the choroid plexus (tissue in the ventricles that makes cerebrospinal fluid). Also called ependymoma.
ependymoma: listen (eh-PEN-dih-MOH-muh); A type of brain tumor that begins in cells lining the spinal cord central canal (fluid-filled space down the center) or the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces of the brain). Ependymomas may also form in the choroid plexus (tissue in the ventricles that makes cerebrospinal fluid). Also called ependymal tumor.
ephedra: listen (eh-FEH-druh); A shrub native to China and India. The stems and roots are used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and for asthma, bronchitis, and cough. It has also been promoted as a decongestant, a weight loss aid, and as a supplement to increase energy. Ephedra may cause high blood pressure, increased heart rate, or death if used with certain drugs, and may reduce the effects of certain drugs used to treat cancer and other diseases. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has banned the sale of dietary supplements that contain ephedra. The scientific name is Ephedra sinica. Also called ma huang.
epidemiologist: listen (EH-pih-DEE-mee-AH-loh-jist); A scientist who studies the patterns, causes, and control of disease in groups of people.
epidemiology: listen (EH-pih-dee-mee-AH-loh-jee); The study of the patterns, causes, and control of disease in groups of people.
epidermal growth factor: listen (eh-pih-DER-mul grothe FAK-ter); A protein made by many cells in the body and by some types of tumors. It causes cells to grow and differentiate (become more specialized). It is a type of growth factor and a type of cytokine. Also called EGF.
epidermal growth factor receptor: listen (eh-pih-DER-mul grothe FAK-ter reh-SEP-ter); The protein found on the surface of some cells and to which epidermal growth factor binds, causing the cells to divide. It is found at abnormally high levels on the surface of many types of cancer cells, so these cells may divide excessively in the presence of epidermal growth factor. Also called EGFR, ErbB1, and HER1.
epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor: listen (eh-pih-DER-mul grothe FAK-ter reh-SEP-ter in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that blocks the activity of a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR is found on the surface of some normal cells and is involved in cell growth. It may also be found at high levels on some types of cancer cells, which causes these cells to grow and divide. Blocking EGFR may keep cancer cells from growing. Some epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors are used to treat cancer. Also called EGFR inhibitor, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor: listen (eh-pih-DER-mul grothe FAK-ter reh-SEP-ter TY-ruh-seen KY-nays in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that blocks the activity of a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR is found on the surface of some normal cells and is involved in cell growth. It may also be found at high levels on some types of cancer cells, which causes these cells to grow and divide. Blocking EGFR may keep cancer cells from growing. Some epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors are used to treat cancer. Also called EGFR inhibitor, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor.
epidermis: listen (EH-pih-DER-mis); The outer layer of the two main layers of the skin.
epidermoid carcinoma: listen (EH-pih-DER-moyd KAR-sih-NOH-muh); Cancer that begins in squamous cells. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells that look like fish scales, and are found in the tissue that forms the surface of the skin, the lining of the hollow organs of the body, and the lining of the respiratory and digestive tracts. Most cancers of the anus, cervix, head and neck, and vagina are epidermoid carcinomas. Also called squamous cell carcinoma.
epidermolysis bullosa: listen (EH-pih-der-MAH-lih-sis buh-LOH-suh); A group of chronic skin disorders in which fluid-filled blisters form on the skin and mucosa (the moist, inner lining of some organs and body cavities). Epidermolysis bullosa is inherited and usually starts at birth. Patients with epidermolysis bullosa may be at increased risk of squamous cell cancer of the skin.
epididymis: listen (eh-pih-DIH-dih-mis); A narrow, tightly-coiled tube that is attached to each of the testicles (the male sex glands that produce sperm). Sperm cells (male reproductive cells) move from the testicles into the epididymis, where they finish maturing and are stored.
epidural: listen (EH-pih-DER-ul); Having to do with the space between the wall of the spinal canal and the covering of the spinal cord. An epidural injection is given into this space.
epidural block: listen (EH-pih-DER-ul blok); An injection of an anesthetic drug into the space between the wall of the spinal canal and the covering of the spinal cord.
epigallocatechin-3-gallate: listen (EH-pih-ga-loh-KA-teh-kin-3-GA-layt); A substance found in green tea. It is being studied in the prevention of cancer and some other diseases. It is a type of antioxidant. Also called EGCG.
epigastric: listen (EH-pih-GAS-trik); Having to do with the upper middle area of the abdomen.
epigenetic alteration: listen (EH-pih-jeh-NEH-tik ALL-teh-RAY-shun); A change in the chemical structure of DNA that does not change the DNA coding sequence. Epigenetic alterations occur in the body when chemical groups called methyl groups are added to or removed from DNA or when changes are made to proteins called histones that bind to the DNA in chromosomes. These changes may occur with age and exposure to environmental factors, such as diet, exercise, drugs, and chemicals. They can affect a person’s risk of disease and may be passed from parent to child. Also called epigenetic variant and epimutation.
epigenetic variant: listen (EH-pih-jeh-NEH-tik VAYR-ee-unt); A change in the chemical structure of DNA that does not change the DNA coding sequence. Epigenetic variants occur in the body when chemical groups called methyl groups are added to or removed from DNA or when changes are made to proteins called histones that bind to the DNA in chromosomes. These changes may occur with age and exposure to environmental factors, such as diet, exercise, drugs, and chemicals. They can affect a person’s risk of disease and may be passed from parent to child. Also called epigenetic alteration and epimutation.
epigenetics: listen (EH-pih-jeh-NEH-tix); The study of how age and exposure to environmental factors, such as diet, exercise, drugs, and chemicals, may cause changes in the way genes are switched on and off without changing the actual DNA sequence. These changes can affect a person’s risk of disease and may be passed from parents to their children.
epigenomics: listen (EH-pih-jeh-NOH-mix); The study of all of the epigenetic changes in a cell. Epigenetic changes are changes in the way genes are switched on and off without changing the actual DNA sequence. They may be caused by age and exposure to environmental factors, such as diet, exercise, drugs, and chemicals. Epigenetic changes can affect a person’s risk of disease and may be passed from parents to their children.
epiglottis: listen (eh-pih-GLAH-tis); The flap that covers the trachea during swallowing so that food does not enter the lungs.
epilepsy: listen (EH-pih-LEP-see); A group of disorders marked by problems in the normal functioning of the brain. These problems can produce seizures, unusual body movements, a loss of consciousness or changes in consciousness, as well as mental problems or problems with the senses.
epimutation: listen (EH-pih-myoo-TAY-shun); A change in the chemical structure of DNA that does not change the DNA coding sequence. Epimutations occur in the body when chemical groups called methyl groups are added to or removed from DNA or when changes are made to proteins called histones that bind to the DNA in chromosomes. These changes may occur with age and exposure to environmental factors, such as diet, exercise, drugs, and chemicals. They can affect a person’s risk of disease and may be passed from parent to child. Also called epigenetic alteration and epigenetic variant.
epinephrine: listen (eh-pih-NEH-frin); A hormone and neurotransmitter. Also called adrenaline.
epipodophyllotoxin: listen (EH-pih-POH-doh-FIH-loh-TOK-sin); A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. Epipodophyllotoxin is extracted from the mandrake root Podophyllum peltatum. It is a type of topoisomerase inhibitor.
epirubicin: listen (EH-pih-ROO-bih-sin); A drug used with other drugs to treat breast cancer that was removed by surgery. It is used in patients whose cancer has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Epirubicin blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called Ellence and epirubicin hydrochloride.
epirubicin hydrochloride: listen (EH-pih-ROO-bih-sin HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A drug used with other drugs to treat breast cancer that was removed by surgery. It is used in patients whose cancer has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Epirubicin hydrochloride blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called Ellence and epirubicin.
episodic breathlessness: listen (EH-pih-SAH-dik BRETH-les-nes); A medical condition in which patients have periods of trouble breathing that are followed by periods with no trouble breathing. Episodic breathlessness is seen in patients with lung cancer or other lung diseases, and in some heart conditions.
epithelial: listen (eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul); Refers to the cells that line the internal and external surfaces of the body.
epithelial carcinoma: listen (eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul KAR-sih-NOH-muh); Cancer that begins in the cells that line an organ.
epithelial ovarian cancer: listen (eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul oh-VAYR-ee-un KAN-ser); Cancer that forms in the tissue covering the ovary (one of a pair of female reproductive glands in which eggs are made). Most ovarian cancers are epithelial ovarian cancers. Fallopian tube cancer and primary peritoneal cancer are similar to epithelial ovarian cancer and are staged and treated the same way. Also called ovarian epithelial cancer.
epithelioid hemangioendothelioma: listen (eh-pih-THEE-lee-oyd hee-MAN-jee-oh-EN-doh-THEE-lee-OH-muh); A rare blood vessel tumor that usually forms in the liver, lung, or bone, but it can also form on or in the skin. Epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas may be slow growing or fast growing and, in some people, may spread to other parts of the body very quickly. Signs and symptoms depend on where the tumor is in the body. On the skin, the tumor may be raised with round or flat, red-brown patches that feel warm. In the lung, the tumor can cause chest pain, trouble breathing, spitting up blood, and anemia. In the bone, the tumor can cause breaks. Epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas usually occur in adults, but can sometimes occur in children. They are a type of vascular tumor and a type of soft tissue sarcoma.
epithelioid hemangioma: listen (eh-pih-THEE-lee-oyd hee-MAN-jee-OH-muh); A rare benign (not cancer) tumor of small blood vessels surrounded by lymphocytes and eosinophils (types of white blood cells). Epithelioid hemangioma usually forms on or in the skin, especially the skin of the head, but can occur in other areas of the body, such as in bone. On the skin, it may appear as firm pink to red bumps that may be itchy or painful. If the tumor is in bone, it may cause swelling and pain. Epithelioid hemangioma is sometimes caused by injury and often comes back after treatment. Epithelioid hemangioma is most common in young and middle-aged adults. It is a type of vascular tumor. Also called angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia and histiocytoid hemangioma.
epithelioid sarcoma: listen (eh-pih-THEE-lee-oyd sar-KOH-muh); A rare type of cancer that usually begins as a slow-growing, firm lump in the deep soft tissue or skin of the arms, hands, or fingers. It may also occur in the legs, trunk (chest and abdomen), or head and neck. The lump is usually painless and there may be an ulcer in the skin covering the lump. Epithelioid sarcoma may spread to nearby tissue, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body. It often recurs (comes back) after treatment. Epithelioid sarcoma usually occurs in young adults. It is a type of soft tissue sarcoma.
epithelium: listen (eh-pih-THEE-lee-um); A thin layer of tissue that covers organs, glands, and other structures within the body.
epitope: listen (EH-pih-tope); A part of a molecule that an antibody will recognize and bind to.
EPO906: A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called epothilones. Also called epothilone B.
EPOCH: listen; An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat aggressive forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including mantle cell lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin). Also called EPOCH regimen.
EPOCH regimen: listen (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat aggressive forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including mantle cell lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin). Also called EPOCH.
EPOCH-O: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including Burkitt lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin), and ofatumumab. Also called EPOCH-O regimen.
EPOCH-O regimen: listen (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including Burkitt lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin), and ofatumumab. Also called EPOCH-O.
epoetin alfa: listen (ee-POH-ee-tin AL-fuh); A drug used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease, some types of chemotherapy, and an antiviral drug for HIV infection called zidovudine. It is also used to lower the number of donor blood transfusions needed during and after certain types of surgery. Epoetin alfa is a form of erythropoietin (a substance naturally made by the kidneys) that is made in the laboratory. It helps the bone marrow make more red blood cells. Epoetin alfa is a type of antianemic and a type of erythropoiesis-stimulating agent. Also called Epogen, Procrit, and Retacrit.
epoetin beta: listen (ee-POH-eh-tin BAY-tuh); A substance that is made in the laboratory and stimulates the bone marrow to make red blood cells. It is a type of antianemic and a type of recombinant human erythropoietin.
Epogen: listen (EE-poh-jen); A drug used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease, some types of chemotherapy, and an antiviral drug for HIV infection called zidovudine. It is also used to lower the number of donor blood transfusions needed during and after certain types of surgery. Epogen is a form of erythropoietin (a substance naturally made by the kidneys) that is made in the laboratory. It helps the bone marrow make more red blood cells. Epogen is a type of antianemic and a type of erythropoiesis-stimulating agent. Also called epoetin alfa, Procrit, and Retacrit.
epothilone: listen (eh-POTH-ih-lone); A substance obtained from bacteria that interferes with cell division. Some epothilones are being studied as treatments for cancer.
epothilone B: listen (eh-POTH-ih-lone ...); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of epothilone. Also called EPO906.
epothilone D: listen (eh-POTH-ih-lone ...); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of mitotic inhibitor and epothilone. Also called KOS-862.
epothilone ZK219477: listen (eh-POTH-ih-lone ...); A form of the substance epothilone that is made in the laboratory. It is being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. Epothilone ZK2219477 stops the growth of tumor cells by blocking cell division. It is a type of antimitotic agent.
epratuzumab: listen (EH-pruh-TOO-zoo-mab); A substance being studied in the treatment of certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It is also being studied in the treatment of an autoimmune disease called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Epratuzumab binds to a protein called CD22, which is found on B cells (a type of white blood cell) and some types of cancer cells. This may help suppress the body’s immune response and it may help kill cancer cells. Epratuzumab is a type of monoclonal antibody.
Epstein-Barr virus: listen (ep-stine-BAR VY-rus); A common virus that remains dormant in most people. It causes infectious mononucleosis and has been associated with certain cancers, including Burkitt lymphoma, immunoblastic lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Also called EBV.
EPT: Treatment that generates electrical pulses through an electrode placed in a tumor to enhance the ability of anticancer drugs to enter tumor cells. Also called electroporation therapy.
ER: A protein found inside the cells of the female reproductive tissue, some other types of tissue, and some cancer cells. The hormone estrogen will bind to the receptors inside the cells and may cause the cells to grow. Also called estrogen receptor.
ER-: listen; Describes cells that do not have a protein to which the hormone estrogen will bind. Cancer cells that are ER- do not need estrogen to grow, and usually do not stop growing when treated with hormones that block estrogen from binding. Also called estrogen receptor negative.
ER+: listen; Describes cells that have a receptor protein that binds the hormone estrogen. Cancer cells that are ER+ may need estrogen to grow, and may stop growing or die when treated with substances that block the binding and actions of estrogen. Also called estrogen receptor positive.
ERA-923: A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to a family of drugs called antiestrogens.
erb-38 immunotoxin: listen (... IH-myoo-noh-TOK-sin); A toxic substance linked to an antibody that attaches to tumor cells and kills them.
ErbB1: The protein found on the surface of some cells and to which epidermal growth factor binds, causing the cells to divide. It is found at abnormally high levels on the surface of many types of cancer cells, so these cells may divide excessively in the presence of epidermal growth factor. Also called EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor, and HER1.
Erbitux: listen (ER-bih-tux); A drug used to treat certain types of head and neck cancer, and a certain type of colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Erbitux binds to a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is on the surface of some types of cancer cells. This may stop cancer cells from growing. Erbitux is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called cetuximab.
ERCP: A procedure that uses an endoscope to examine and x-ray the pancreatic duct, hepatic duct, common bile duct, duodenal papilla, and gallbladder. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. The endoscope is passed through the mouth and down into the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). A smaller tube (catheter) is then inserted through the endoscope into the bile and pancreatic ducts. A dye is injected through the catheter into the ducts, and an x-ray is taken. Also called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.
Erdheim-Chester disease: listen (ERD-hime-CHEH-ster dih-ZEEZ); A very rare disorder in which too many histiocytes (a type of white blood cell) build up in certain tissues and organs and damage them. Erdheim-Chester disease most often affects the long bones of the arms and legs, but it can also affect the skin, lungs, heart, kidneys, brain, tissue behind the eyes, and the retroperitoneum (the back wall of the abdomen). The symptoms can range from mild to severe and life-threatening. Erdheim-Chester disease is most common in adults. It is a type of histiocytosis. Also called ECD.
erectile dysfunction: listen (eh-REK-tile dis-FUNK-shun); An inability to have an erection of the penis adequate for sexual intercourse. Also called impotence.
erection: listen (eh-REK-shun); In medicine, the swelling of the penis with blood, causing it to become firm.
ergocalciferol: listen (ER-goh-kal-SIH-feh-rol); A form of vitamin D that helps the body use calcium and phosphorus to make strong bones and teeth. It is fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) and is found in plants and yeast. It can be made in the body from another form of vitamin D when the body is exposed to the sun. Ergocalciferol is also made in the laboratory. It is used to prevent and to treat vitamin D deficiency. It is a type of dietary supplement. Also called vitamin D2.
eribulin mesylate: listen (er-eh-BYOO-lin MEH-zih-layt); A drug used to treat breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and has already been treated with an anthracycline and a taxane (types of anticancer drugs). It is also used to treat liposarcoma (a type of soft tissue sarcoma) that cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients whose cancer has already been treated with an anthracycline. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Eribulin mesylate blocks cell growth by stopping cell division and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antitubulin agent. Also called E7389 and Halaven.
erismodegib: listen (AYR-is-MOH-deh-gib); A drug used to treat locally advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC) that has come back after surgery or radiation therapy. It is also used in patients who cannot be treated with surgery or radiation therapy. Erismodegib is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Erismodegib blocks a type of protein involved in tissue growth and repair and may block the growth of cancer cells. It is a type of hedgehog signaling pathway antagonist. Also called LDE225, Odomzo, and sonidegib phosphate.
Erivedge: listen (AYR-ih-vej); A drug used to treat advanced basal cell carcinoma that has spread to other parts of the body or has come back after surgery. It is also used in patients who cannot be treated with surgery or radiation therapy. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Erivedge blocks a type of protein involved in tissue growth and repair and may block the growth of cancer cells. It is a type of Hedgehog signaling pathway antagonist. Also called GDC-0449 and vismodegib.
Erleada: listen (er-LEE-duh); A drug used to treat prostate cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients whose cancer is castration resistant (has not responded to treatments that lower testosterone levels). Erleada binds to proteins called androgen receptors, which are found in some prostate cancer cells. These proteins bind to androgens (male hormones) and may cause cancer cells to grow. Erleada blocks these proteins and may keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of antiandrogen. Also called apalutamide.
erlotinib hydrochloride: listen (er-LOH-tih-nib HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A drug used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer. It is also used with gemcitabine hydrochloride to treat pancreatic cancer that cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body. It is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Erlotinib hydrochloride blocks a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which may help keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Also called CP-358,774, OSI-774, and Tarceva.
ERMS: A soft tissue tumor that is most common in infants and young children. It begins in muscles, usually in the head, neck, or genitourinary tract. Also called embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma.
ER-negative PR-negative HER2/neu-negative breast cancer: listen (... NEH-guh-tiv ... NEH-guh-tiv ... NEH-guh-tiv brest KAN-ser); Describes breast cancer cells that do not have estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, or large amounts of HER2/neu protein. Also called triple-negative breast cancer.
ERT: Treatment with the hormone estrogen to increase the amount of estrogen in the body. It is given to women who have gone through menopause or to women who have early menopause caused by cancer treatment or by having their ovaries removed by surgery. ERT may help relieve symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep problems. It may also help protect against osteoporosis (thinning of the bones) and lower the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Also called estrogen replacement therapy.
ERUS: A procedure in which a probe that sends out high-energy sound waves is inserted into the rectum. The sound waves are bounced off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissue called a sonogram. ERUS is used to look for abnormalities in the rectum and nearby structures, including the prostate. Also called endorectal ultrasound, transrectal ultrasound, and TRUS.
Erwinaze: listen (ER-wih-nayz); A drug used with other anticancer drugs to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It is an enzyme that comes from the Erwinia chrysanthemi bacterium. It is used in patients who cannot take a similar drug that comes from the E. coli bacterium. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It breaks down the amino acid asparagine and may block the growth of cancer cells that need asparagine to grow. It may also kill cancer cells. Also called asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi.
erythema: listen (AYR-ih-THEE-muh); Redness of the skin.
erythrocyte: listen (eh-RITH-roh-site); A type of blood cell that is made in the bone marrow and found in the blood. Erythrocytes contain a protein called hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Checking the number of erythrocytes in the blood is usually part of a complete blood cell (CBC) test. It may be used to look for conditions such as anemia, dehydration, malnutrition, and leukemia. Also called RBC and red blood cell.
erythrocyte sedimentation rate: listen (eh-RITH-roh-site SEH-dih-men-TAY-shun ...); The distance red blood cells travel in one hour in a sample of blood as they settle to the bottom of a test tube. The sedimentation rate is increased in inflammation, infection, cancer, rheumatic diseases, and diseases of the blood and bone marrow. Also called ESR and sedimentation rate.
erythrodysplasia: listen (eh-RITH-roh-dis-PLAY-zhuh); A condition in which immature red blood cells (erythroid cells) in the bone marrow are abnormal in size, shape, organization, and/or number. Erythrodysplasia may be caused by vitamin deficiency or chemotherapy, or it may be a sign of refractory anemia, which is a myelodysplastic syndrome. Also called erythroid dysplasia.
erythrogenesis imperfecta: listen (eh-RITH-roh-JEH-neh-sis IM-per-FEK-tuh); A very rare disorder in which the bone marrow doesn’t make enough red blood cells. It is usually seen in the first year of life. Patients may have deformed thumbs and other physical problems. They also have an increased risk of leukemia and sarcoma, especially osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Patients with erythrogenesis imperfecta may have a mutation (change) in one of the genes that make proteins found in the cell’s ribosomes. Also called Blackfan–Diamond anemia, congenital hypoplastic anemia, congenital pure red cell aplasia, DBA, Diamond-Blackfan anemia, and inherited erythroblastopenia.
erythroid dysplasia: listen (eh-RITH-royd dis-PLAY-zhuh); A condition in which immature red blood cells (erythroid cells) in the bone marrow are abnormal in size, shape, organization, and/or number. Erythroid dysplasia may be caused by vitamin deficiency or chemotherapy, or it may be a sign of refractory anemia, which is a myelodysplastic syndrome. Also called erythrodysplasia.
erythroleukemia: listen (eh-RITH-roh-loo-KEE-mee-uh); Cancer of the blood-forming tissues in which large numbers of immature, abnormal red blood cells are found in the blood and bone marrow.
erythroleukoplakia: listen (eh-RITH-roh-LOO-koh-PLAY-kee-uh); An abnormal patch of red and white tissue that forms on mucous membranes in the mouth and may become cancer. Tobacco (smoking and chewing) and alcohol may increase the risk of erythroleukoplakia.
erythroplakia: listen (eh-RITH-roh-PLAY-kee-uh); An abnormal patch of red tissue that forms on mucous membranes in the mouth and may become cancer. Tobacco (smoking and chewing) and alcohol may increase the risk of erythroplakia.
erythropoiesis: listen (eh-RITH-roh-poy-EE-sis); The formation of red blood cells in blood-forming tissue. In the early development of a fetus, erythropoiesis takes place in the yolk sac, spleen, and liver. After birth, all erythropoiesis occurs in the bone marrow.
erythropoiesis-stimulating agent: listen (eh-RITH-roh-poy-EE-sis-STIM-yoo-LAY-ting AY-jent); A substance that stimulates the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents are used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney failure, some anticancer drugs, and certain treatments for HIV. They may also be used to lower the number of blood transfusions needed during and after certain major surgeries. Examples of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents are epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit) and darbepoetin alfa (Aranesp). Also called ESA.
erythropoietin: listen (eh-RITH-roh-POY-eh-tin); A substance that is naturally produced by the kidneys, and that stimulates the bone marrow to make red blood cells. When erythropoietin is made in the laboratory, it is called epoetin alfa or epoetin beta.
ESA: A substance that stimulates the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. ESAs are used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney failure, some anticancer drugs, and certain treatments for HIV. They may also be used to lower the number of blood transfusions needed during and after certain major surgeries. Examples of ESAs are epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit) and darbepoetin alfa (Aranesp). Also called erythropoiesis-stimulating agent.
escitalopram: listen (es-sy-TA-loh-pram); A drug used to treat depression and certain anxiety disorders. It belongs to the family of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Also called Lexapro.
esomeprazole: listen (EH-soh-MEH-pruh-zole); A drug that blocks acid from being made in the stomach. It is used to treat acid reflux disease and to prevent certain types of gastrointestinal ulcers. Esomeprazole is being studied in the prevention of esophageal cancer and in the treatment of other conditions, including side effects of chemotherapy. It is a type of anti-ulcer agent. Also called esomeprazole magnesium and Nexium.
esomeprazole magnesium: listen (EH-soh-MEH-pruh-zole mag-NEE-zee-um); A drug that blocks acid from being made in the stomach. It is used to treat acid reflux disease and to prevent certain types of gastrointestinal ulcers. Esomeprazole magnesium is being studied in the prevention of esophageal cancer and in the treatment of other conditions, including side effects of chemotherapy. It is a type of anti-ulcer agent. Also called esomeprazole and Nexium.
esophageal: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-JEE-ul); Having to do with the esophagus, the muscular tube through which food passes from the throat to the stomach.
esophageal cancer: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-JEE-ul KAN-ser); Cancer that forms in tissues lining the esophagus (the muscular tube through which food passes from the throat to the stomach). Two types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma (cancer that begins in flat cells lining the esophagus) and adenocarcinoma (cancer that begins in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).
esophageal reflux: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-JEE-ul REE-flux); The backward flow of stomach acid contents into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach). Also called gastric reflux and gastroesophageal reflux.
esophageal speech: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-JEE-ul...); Speech produced by trapping air in the esophagus and forcing it out again. It is used after removal of a person's larynx (voice box).
esophageal stent: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-JEE-ul stent); A tube placed in the esophagus to keep a blocked area open so the patient can swallow soft food and liquids. Esophageal stents are made of metal mesh, plastic, or silicone, and may be used in the treatment of esophageal cancer.
esophagectomy: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-JEK-toh-mee); An operation to remove a portion of the esophagus.
esophagitis: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-JY-tis); Inflammation of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach).
esophagoscopy: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-GOS-koh-pee); Examination of the esophagus using an esophagoscope. An esophagoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. It may also have a tool to remove tissue to be checked under a microscope for signs of disease.
esophagram: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-gram); A series of x-ray pictures of the esophagus taken after a patient drinks a liquid containing barium sulfate (a form of the silver-white metallic element barium). The barium sulfate coats and outlines the inner wall of the esophagus so that it can be seen on the x-ray pictures. Also called contrast esophagram.
esophagus: listen (ee-SAH-fuh-gus); The muscular tube through which food passes from the throat to the stomach.
ESR: The distance red blood cells travel in one hour in a sample of blood as they settle to the bottom of a test tube. The sedimentation rate is increased in inflammation, infection, cancer, rheumatic diseases, and diseases of the blood and bone marrow. Also called erythrocyte sedimentation rate and sedimentation rate.
essential oil: listen (eh-SENT-shul oyl); The scented liquid taken from certain plants using steam or pressure. Essential oils contain the natural chemicals that give the plant its “essence” (specific odor and flavor). Essential oils are used in perfumes, food flavorings, medicine, and aromatherapy.
essential thrombocythemia: listen (eh-SENT-shul THROM-boh-sy-THEE-mee-uh); An increased number of thrombocytes (platelets) in the blood, without a known cause. Also called essential thrombocytosis.
essential thrombocytosis: listen (eh-SENT-shul THROM-boh-sy-TOH-sis); An increased number of thrombocytes (platelets) in the blood, without a known cause. Also called essential thrombocythemia.
Essiac: listen (EH-see-ak); An herbal tea mixture that contains burdock root, Indian rhubarb root, sheep sorrel, and slippery elm bark. It has been claimed to remove toxins from the body, make the immune system stronger, relieve pain, control diabetes, treat AIDS, reduce tumor size, increase cancer survival, and improve quality of life. No clinical trial using Essiac in humans has been reported in a peer-reviewed, scientific journal, and the FDA has not approved the use of Essiac for the treatment of any medical conditions.
ester: listen (EH-ster); A chemical substance made when an acid and an alcohol combine and water is removed. Esters are found in essential oils (scented oils that come from plants).
esterified estrogen: listen (eh-STAYR-ih-fide ES-truh-jin); A form of estrogen that may have fewer side effects than other forms. Esterified estrogens are used to treat some types of cancer, including prostate cancer. They are also used to treat the symptoms of menopause, (such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, or heavy and painful bleeding) and osteoporosis (loss of bone mass). It is a type of drug called hormone therapy.
esthesioneuroblastoma: listen (es-THEE-zee-oh-NOOR-oh-blas-TOH-muh); A rare type of cancer that forms in the tissues of the upper part of the nasal cavity (space inside the nose). This area is near the bone that separates the nasal cavity from the brain. These tissues are involved in the sense of smell. Esthesioneuroblastoma may spread from the nasal cavity to the bone around the eyes, the sinuses, the front part of the brain, or the lymph nodes in the neck. It is the most common type of nasal cavity tumor in children, especially in teens. Also called olfactory neuroblastoma.
estradiol: listen (es-truh-DY-ol); A form of the hormone estrogen.
estramustine: listen (ES-truh-MUS-teen); A combination of the hormone estradiol (an estrogen) and nitrogen mustard (an anticancer drug). Used in the palliative therapy of prostate cancer.
estrogen: listen (ES-truh-jin); A type of hormone made by the body that helps develop and maintain female sex characteristics and the growth of long bones. Estrogens can also be made in the laboratory. They may be used as a type of birth control and to treat symptoms of menopause, menstrual disorders, osteoporosis, and other conditions.
estrogen blocker: listen (ES-truh-jin BLAH-ker); A substance that keeps cells from making or using estrogen (a hormone that plays a role in female sex characteristics, the menstrual cycle, and pregnancy). Estrogen blockers may stop some cancer cells from growing and are used to prevent and treat breast cancer. They are also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. An estrogen blocker is a type of hormone antagonist. Also called antiestrogen.
estrogen cream: listen (ES-truh-jin creem); A cream that contains the hormone estrogen. It is used to treat some symptoms of menopause, such as vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. It may also be used to treat certain types of urinary incontinence (inability to control the flow of urine from the bladder). Estrogen cream is usually applied to the vagina, vulva, or opening of the urethra. It may also be applied to the cervix in some women who have certain abnormal cell changes caused by low hormone levels. Treatment with estrogen cream usually helps make these abnormal cells go away.
estrogen receptor: listen (ES-truh-jin reh-SEP-ter); A protein found inside the cells of the female reproductive tissue, some other types of tissue, and some cancer cells. The hormone estrogen will bind to the receptors inside the cells and may cause the cells to grow. Also called ER.
estrogen receptor negative: listen (ES-truh-jin reh-SEP-ter NEH-guh-tiv); Describes cells that do not have a protein to which the hormone estrogen will bind. Cancer cells that are estrogen receptor negative do not need estrogen to grow, and usually do not stop growing when treated with hormones that block estrogen from binding. Also called ER-.
estrogen receptor positive: listen (ES-truh-jin reh-SEP-ter PAH-zih-tiv); Describes cells that have a receptor protein that binds the hormone estrogen. Cancer cells that are estrogen receptor positive may need estrogen to grow, and may stop growing or die when treated with substances that block the binding and actions of estrogen. Also called ER+.
estrogen receptor test: listen (ES-truh-jin reh-SEP-ter test); A lab test to find out if cancer cells have estrogen receptors (proteins to which estrogen will bind). If the cells have estrogen receptors, they may need estrogen to grow, and this may affect how the cancer is treated.
estrogen replacement therapy: listen (ES-truh-jin reh-PLAYS-ment THAYR-uh-pee); Treatment with the hormone estrogen to increase the amount of estrogen in the body. It is given to women who have gone through menopause or to women who have early menopause caused by cancer treatment or by having their ovaries removed by surgery. Estrogen replacement therapy may help relieve symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep problems. It may also help protect against osteoporosis (thinning of the bones) and lower the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Also called ERT.
ET-743: A drug used to treat liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma (types of soft tissue sarcoma) that cannot be removed by surgery or have spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients who were treated with other anticancer drugs. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. ET-743 may kill cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing. It is a type of alkylating agent. Also called ecteinascidin 743, trabectedin, and Yondelis.
etanercept: listen (ee-TA-ner-cept); A drug that is commonly used to treat arthritis. It is also being studied in the treatment of cancer, and as a treatment for loss of appetite and weight loss in cancer patients. It belongs to the family of drugs called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists.
etaracizumab: listen (eh-TAR-uh-SIH-zoo-mab); A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer and other conditions. Etaracizumab binds to a protein on the surface of blood vessels and may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It may also prevent the spread of cancer. It is a type of antiangiogenesis agent, a type of metastasis inhibitor, and a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called Abegrin, humanized monoclonal antibody MEDI-522, and MEDI-522.
ethanol ablation: listen (EH-thuh-nol a-BLAY-shun); An injection of ethanol (alcohol) through the skin directly into a tumor to kill cancer cells. Ultrasound or a CT scan is used to guide the needle into the tumor. Also called alcohol ablation, PEI, and percutaneous ethanol injection.
etheylenediaminetetraacetic acid: listen (EH-thih-leen-DY-uh-meen-TEH-truh-uh-SEE-tik A-sid); A chemical that binds certain metal ions, such as calcium, magnesium, lead, and iron. It is used in medicine to prevent blood samples from clotting and to remove calcium and lead from the body. It is also used to keep bacteria from forming a biofilm (thin layer stuck to a surface). It is a type of chelating agent. Also called edetic acid and EDTA.
ethical: listen (EH-thih-kul); Having to do with beliefs about what is right and wrong in terms of how people behave. Also called moral.
ethical will: listen (EH-thih-kul …); A final personal message or document in which a person shares his or her thoughts, values, memories, life lessons, advice, and hopes for the future. The person may also ask for forgiveness and forgive others. An ethical will is not a legal document.
ethiodized oil: listen (eh-THY-oh-dized oyl); A form of poppy seed oil that contains iodine. Ethiodized oil is given by injection and builds up in the blood and lymph vessels in tumors. It is used for imaging (taking pictures) of the salivary glands and the lymph system. It is also being studied in the imaging of other organs such as the liver, lung, stomach, and thyroid. It is a type of diagnostic imaging agent. Also called Ethiodol, iodized oil, and Lipiodol.
Ethiodol: listen (eh-THY-oh-dol); A form of poppy seed oil that contains iodine. Ethiodol is given by injection and builds up in the blood and lymph vessels in tumors. It is used for imaging (taking pictures) of the salivary glands and the lymph system. It is also being studied in the imaging of other organs such as the liver, lung, stomach, and thyroid. It is a type of diagnostic imaging agent. Also called ethiodized oil, iodized oil, and Lipiodol.
ethmoid sinus: listen (ETH-moyd SY-nus); A type of paranasal sinus (a hollow space in the bones around the nose). Ethmoid sinuses are found in the spongy ethmoid bone in the upper part of the nose between the eyes. They are lined with cells that make mucus to keep the nose from drying out.
ethnic group: listen (ETH-nik groop); A group of people who share a similar culture (beliefs, values, and behaviors), language, religion, ancestry, or other characteristic that is often handed down from one generation to the next. They may come from the same country or live together in the same area. Examples of ethnic groups include Hispanics and Han Chinese. Some diseases or genetic conditions may be more common in certain ethnic groups than in others.
ethylene oxide: listen (EH-thuh-leen OK-side); A chemical used to make antifreeze, to clean medical equipment, and as a pesticide. It is also found in tobacco smoke. Being exposed to ethylene oxide can cause lung damage, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and shortness of breath. Being exposed over a long time may increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
ethynyluracil: listen (eh-THY-nil-YOOR-uh-sil); An anticancer drug that increases the effectiveness of fluorouracil. Also called eniluracil.
Ethyol: listen (eh-THY-ol); A drug used to help protect the kidneys in patients receiving cisplatin (a type of anticancer drug) for advanced ovarian cancer. It is also used to help reduce dry mouth in patients receiving radiation therapy after surgery for head and neck cancer. Ethyol helps protect healthy tissue from some of the side effects caused by certain types of cancer treatment. It is a type of chemoprotective agent and a type of radioprotective agent. Also called amifostine.
etidronate: listen (ee-tih-DROH-nayt); A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates are used as treatment for hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood) and for cancer that has spread to the bone (bone metastases).
etiology: listen (EE-tee-AH-loh-jee); The cause or origin of disease.
Etopophos: listen (ee-toh-POH-fos); A drug used with other drugs to treat small cell lung cancer. It is also used with other drugs to treat testicular cancer that has not gotten better after other anticancer treatment. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Etopophos blocks certain enzymes needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of podophyllotoxin derivative and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called etoposide phosphate.
etoposide: listen (ee-toh-POH-side); The active ingredient in a drug used with other drugs to treat small cell lung cancer. It is also used with other drugs to treat testicular cancer that has not gotten better after other anticancer treatment. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Etoposide blocks certain enzymes needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of podophyllotoxin derivative and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called VP-16.
etoposide phosphate: listen (ee-toh-POH-side FOS-fayt); A drug used with other drugs to treat small cell lung cancer. It is also used with other drugs to treat testicular cancer that has not gotten better after other anticancer treatment. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Etoposide phosphate blocks certain enzymes needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of podophyllotoxin derivative and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called Etopophos.
ETS: Smoke that comes from the burning of a tobacco product and smoke that is exhaled by smokers. Inhaling ETS is called involuntary or passive smoking. Also called environmental tobacco smoke and secondhand smoke.
eucalyptus: listen (YOO-kuh-LIP-tus); A type of evergreen tree that is a member of the myrtle family. Oil from the leaves is used in very small amounts in mouthwash and in medicines and candy used to treat and soothe sore throats and coughs. It has also been used in some cultures to treat many other medical problems. The scientific name is Eucalyptus globulus.
euphoria: listen (yoo-FOR-ee-uh); A feeling of great happiness or well-being. Euphoria may be a side effect of certain drugs.
EUS: A procedure in which an endoscope is inserted into the body. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument that has a light and a lens for viewing. A probe at the end of the endoscope is used to bounce high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) off internal organs to make a picture (sonogram). Also called endoscopic ultrasound and endosonography.
EUS-FNA: A procedure to take a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. An endoscope with an ultrasound probe and a biopsy needle at the end is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus. An endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument that has a light and a lens for viewing. The ultrasound probe is used to bounce high-energy sound waves off internal organs and tissues to make a picture on a monitor. This picture helps the doctor see where to place the biopsy needle. Also called endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration.
euthanasia: listen (YOO-thuh-NAY-zhuh); An easy or painless death, or the intentional ending of the life of a person suffering from an incurable or painful disease at his or her request. Also called mercy killing.
evaluable disease: listen (ee-VAL-yoo-uh-bul dih-ZEEZ); Disease that cannot be measured directly by the size of the tumor but can be evaluated by other methods specific to a particular clinical trial.
evaluable patients: listen (ee-VAL-yoo-uh-bul PAY-shunts); Patients whose response to a treatment can be measured because enough information has been collected.
event-free survival: listen (eh-VENT … ser-VY-vul); In cancer, the length of time after primary treatment for a cancer ends that the patient remains free of certain complications or events that the treatment was intended to prevent or delay. These events may include the return of the cancer or the onset of certain symptoms, such as bone pain from cancer that has spread to the bone. In a clinical trial, measuring the event-free survival is one way to see how well a new treatment works. Also called EFS.
everolimus: listen (eh-veh-ROH-lih-mus); A drug used with exemestane to treat some postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer that is hormone receptor positive and HER2 negative. It is also used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer) and certain types of pancreatic, lung, and gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors. It is used under the brand name Afinitor to treat these cancers and to treat renal angiomyolipoma (a type of benign kidney tumor) and subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA, a type of benign brain tumor) in patients who have tuberous sclerosis. Everolimus is also used under the brand name Afinitor Disperz to treat SEGA and certain types of seizures in patients who have tuberous sclerosis. It is also used under the brand name Zortress to keep the body from rejecting a kidney or liver transplant. Everolimus is also being studied in the treatment of other conditions and types of cancer. It blocks a protein involved in cell division, which may help keep abnormal cells, including cancer cells, from growing. It may also prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. Everolimus also lowers the body’s immune response. It is a type of kinase inhibitor, a type of angiogenesis inhibitor, and a type of immunosuppressant. Also called RAD001.
Evista: listen (ee-VIS-tuh); A drug used to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women who are at high risk of the disease or who have osteoporosis. It is also used to prevent and treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Evista is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It blocks the effects of the hormone estrogen in breast tissue, which may help keep breast cancer cells from growing. It may also help keep bone from breaking down. Evista is a type of selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). Also called raloxifene hydrochloride.
Evomela: listen (eh-voh-MEH-lah); A drug used to treat multiple myeloma in patients who cannot take melphalan by mouth. It is also used to help prepare patients for a stem cell transplant. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Evomela may kill cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing. It is a type of alkylating agent. Also called melphalan hydrochloride.
Evoxac: listen (EE-voh-ZAK); A drug used to treat certain disorders of the salivary gland. It is also being studied as a treatment for dry mouth caused by radiation therapy to the head and neck. It increases the amount of saliva and sweat made by saliva and sweat glands. Evoxac is a type of cholinergic agonist. Also called cevimeline hydrochloride.
Ewing sarcoma: listen (YOO-ing sar-KOH-muh); A type of cancer that forms in bone or soft tissue. Also called peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor and pPNET.
Ewing sarcoma family of tumors: listen (YOO-ing sar-KOH-muh FA-mih-lee ... TOO-mers); A group of cancers that includes Ewing tumor of bone (ETB or Ewing sarcoma of bone), extraosseous Ewing (EOE) tumors, primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET or peripheral neuroepithelioma), and Askin tumors (PNET of the chest wall). These tumors all come from the same type of stem cell. Also called EFTs.
ex vivo: listen (ex VEE-voh); Outside of the living body. Refers to a medical procedure in which an organ, cells, or tissue are taken from a living body for a treatment or procedure, and then returned to the living body.
Exalgo: listen (eg-ZAL-goh); A drug used to treat moderate to severe pain. It may also be used to treat certain types of cough. Exalgo is made from morphine and binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system. It is a type of opioid and a type of analgesic agent. Also called Dilaudid, hydromorphone hydrochloride, and Hydrostat IR.
exatecan mesylate: listen (EK-suh-TEE-kan MEH-zih-layt); An anticancer drug that is a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called DX-8951f.
excision: listen (ek-SIH-zhun); Removal by surgery.
excisional biopsy: listen (ek-SIH-zhuh-nul BY-op-see); A surgical procedure in which an entire lump or suspicious area is removed for diagnosis. The tissue is then examined under a microscope.
excisional skin surgery: listen (ek-SIH-zhuh-nul … SER-juh-ree); A surgical procedure used to remove moles, cysts, skin cancer, and other skin growths using local anesthesia. To treat skin cancer, the doctor uses a scalpel to remove the entire tumor and some of the healthy tissue around it.
excrete: listen (ek-SKREET); To get rid of waste material from the blood, tissues, or organs by a normal discharge (such as sweat, urine, or stool).
exemestane: listen (EK-seh-MEH-stayn); A drug used to treat advanced breast cancer or early-stage breast cancer that is estrogen receptor positive (ER+). It is used in postmenopausal women whose cancer has already been treated with tamoxifen. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Exemestane lowers the amount of estrogen made by the body. This may stop the growth of cancer cells that need estrogen to grow. Exemestane is a type of aromatase inhibitor. Also called Aromasin.
exenteration: listen (eg-ZEN-teh-RAY-shun); Surgery to remove organs within a body cavity.
exisulind: listen (ek-sih-SOO-lind); A drug being studied in the treatment and prevention of cancer. It has been shown to cause apoptosis (cell death) in cells that are malignant (cancer) and in cells that may become cancer. It acts through a group of cellular enzymes called cGMP phosphodiesterases.
Exjade: listen (EX-jayd); A drug used to treat too much iron in the blood caused by blood transfusions. It is being studied in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes (a group of diseases in which the bone marrow does not make enough healthy blood cells) and other conditions. Exjade binds to extra iron in the blood. The drug and the iron are passed from the body in urine. It is a type of chelating agent. Also called deferasirox.
exocrine cancer: listen (EK-soh-krin KAN-ser); A disease in which malignant (cancer) cells are found in the tissues of the pancreas. Also called pancreatic cancer.
exocrine pancreas cell: listen (EK-soh-krin PAN-kree-us sel); A pancreatic cell that produces enzymes that are secreted into the small intestine. These enzymes help digest food as it passes through the gastrointestinal tract.
expanded access trial: listen (ek-SPAN-ded AK-ses TRY-ul); A way to provide an investigational therapy to a patient who is not eligible to receive that therapy in a clinical trial, but who has a serious or life-threatening illness for which other treatments are not available. Expanded access allows a patient to receive promising but not yet fully studied or approved cancer therapies when no other treatment option exists. Also called compassionate use trial.
expectant management: listen (ek-SPEK-tunt MA-nij-ment); Closely watching a patient’s condition but not giving treatment unless symptoms appear or change, or there are changes in test results. Expectant management avoids problems that may be caused by treatments such as radiation or surgery. It is used to find early signs that the condition is getting worse. During expectant management, patients may be given certain exams and tests. It is sometimes used in prostate cancer. Also called deferred therapy.
experimental: listen (ek-SPAYR-ih-men-tul); In clinical trials, refers to a drug (including a new drug, dose, combination, or route of administration) or procedure that has undergone basic laboratory testing and received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be tested in human subjects. A drug or procedure may be approved by the FDA for use in one disease or condition, but be considered experimental in other diseases or conditions. Also called investigational.
experimental drug: listen (ek-SPAYR-ih-men-tul ...); A substance that has been tested in the laboratory and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for testing in people. Clinical trials test how well experimental drugs work and whether they are safe to use. An experimental drug may be approved by the FDA for use in one disease or condition but still be considered investigational in other diseases or conditions. Also called IND, investigational agent, investigational drug, and investigational new drug.
experimental group: listen (ek-SPAYR-ih-MEN-tul groop); The group in a clinical research study that receives the drug, vaccine, or other intervention being tested. Interventions may also include medical procedures (such as radiation therapy and surgery), medical devices, behavior changes (such as diet and exercise), education programs, and counseling. Also called intervention group and investigational group.
explanation of benefits: listen (EK-spluh-NAY-shun … BEH-neh-fits); A summary of the costs of a medical treatment or other healthcare service that an insurance company may send to a patient after the patient has received the service. An explanation of benefits usually includes the date the patient received the service, how much the service cost, how much the health insurance plan paid, and how much the patient may need to pay the healthcare provider. Also called EOB.
exploratory surgery: listen (ek-SPLOR-uh-TOR-ee SER-juh-ree); Surgery to look inside the body to help make a diagnosis.
extensive-stage small cell lung cancer: listen (ek-STEN-siv-stayj ... sel lung KAN-ser); Cancer has spread outside of the lung in which it began or to other parts of the body.
external radiation therapy: listen (...RAY-dee-AY-shun THAYR-uh-pee); A type of radiation therapy that uses a machine to aim high-energy rays at the cancer from outside of the body. Also called external-beam radiation therapy.
external right atrial catheter: listen (ek-STER-nul rite AY-tree-ul KA-theh-ter); A thin, flexible tube that is inserted into a vein in the neck or below the collar bone and guided (threaded) into the right atrium of the heart. It is used to give intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, and chemotherapy and other drugs, and for taking blood samples. It avoids the need for repeated needle sticks. An external right atrial catheter is a type of central venous access device.
external-beam radiation therapy: listen (...RAY-dee-AY-shun THAYR-uh-pee); A type of radiation therapy that uses a machine to aim high-energy rays at the cancer from outside of the body. Also called external radiation therapy.
extracorporeal photopheresis: listen (EK-struh-kor-POR-ee-ul FOH-toh-feh-REE-sis); A procedure in which blood is removed from the body and treated with ultraviolet light and drugs that become active when exposed to light. The blood is then returned to the body. It is being studied in the treatment of some blood and bone marrow diseases and graft-vs-host disease (GVHD). Also called photopheresis.
extracranial: listen (EK-struh-KRAY-nee-ul); Outside of the cranium (bones that surround the brain).
extracranial germ cell tumor: listen (EK-struh-KRAY-nee-ul jerm sel TOO-mer); A type of tumor that begins in germ cells (cells that form sperm or eggs) that are found in areas of the body other than the brain. These areas include the ovary, testicle, chest, abdomen, and tailbone. Extracranial germ cell tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Extracranial germ cell tumors are most common in children and teenagers and can usually be cured.
extract: listen (EK-strakt); In medicine, a preparation of a substance obtained from plants, animals, or bacteria and used as a drug or in drugs.
extragonadal: listen (EK-struh-goh-NA-dul); An area of the body other than the ovaries or testes.
extragonadal extracranial germ cell tumor: listen (EK-struh-goh-NA-dul EK-struh-KRAY-nee-ul jerm sel TOO-mer); A rare type of tumor that begins in germ cells (cells that form sperm or eggs) found in areas of the body other than the testicle, ovary, or brain. Most extragonadal extracranial germ cell tumors form either in the sacrum (the large, triangle-shaped bone in the lower spine that forms part of the pelvis) and tailbone, or in the chest area and back of the abdomen. They may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer) and occur most often in children and young adults.
extragonadal germ cell tumor: listen (EK-struh-goh-NA-dul jerm sel TOO-mer); A rare cancer that develops in germ cells that are found in areas of the body other than the ovary or testicle (such as the brain, chest, abdomen, or tailbone). Germ cells are reproductive cells that develop into sperm in males and eggs in females.
extrahepatic: listen (EK-struh-heh-PA-tik); Located or occurring outside the liver.
extrahepatic bile duct: listen (EK-struh-heh-PA-tik bile dukt); A duct (tube) that is outside the liver and carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. The extrahepatic bile duct includes the perihilar bile duct and the distal extrahepatic bile duct. The extrahepatic bile duct is part of the biliary system.
extrahepatic bile duct cancer: listen (EK-struh-heh-PA-tik bile dukt KAN-ser); A rare cancer that forms in the bile ducts outside the liver. A bile duct is a tube that carries bile (fluid made by the liver) between the liver and gallbladder and the small intestine. Cancer that forms in the area where the right and left bile ducts meet outside the liver is called Klatskin tumor. It is the most common type of bile duct cancer.
extranodal: listen (EK-struh-NOH-dul); Refers to an area or organ outside of the lymph nodes.
extraocular: listen (EK-struh-AH-kyoo-ler); Located outside the eye.
extraosseous: listen (EK-struh-AH-see-us); Located or occurring outside of the bone. Also called extraskeletal.
extraosseous Ewing tumor: listen (EK-struh-OS-see-us YOO-ing TOO-mer); A rare type of Ewing sarcoma that forms in soft tissue instead of bone. It usually occurs in the chest, pelvis, thigh, foot, or spine. Extraosseous Ewing tumors usually occur in children and young adults. They belong to a group of cancers called Ewing sarcoma family of tumors. Also called extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma and extraskeletal Ewing tumor.
extraosseous osteosarcoma: listen (EK-struh-OS-see-us OS-tee-oh-sar-KOH-muh); A rare, fast-growing type of cancer that is made up of bone and cartilage cells, and forms in soft tissue near bones. It usually occurs in the thigh, buttock, shoulder, or trunk (chest and abdomen). It often recurs (comes back) after treatment and spreads to other parts of the body, including the lungs. Extraosseous osteosarcoma usually occurs in middle-aged or older adults, and is rare in children and adolescents. It is a type of soft tissue sarcoma. Also called extraskeletal osteosarcoma.
extrapleural pneumonectomy: listen (EK-struh-PLOOR-ul NOO-moh-NEK-toh-mee); Surgery to remove a diseased lung, part of the pericardium (membrane covering the heart), part of the diaphragm (muscle between the lungs and the abdomen), and part of the parietal pleura (membrane lining the chest). This type of surgery is used most often to treat malignant mesothelioma.
extrarenal (extracranial) rhabdoid tumor: listen (EK-struh-REE-nul (EK-struh-KRAY-nee-ul) RAB-doyd TOO-mer); A rare, fast-growing cancer that forms in the soft tissues of the liver, heart, peritoneum, or other areas of the body outside the kidney and brain. These tumors often have an abnormality of chromosome 22. They usually occur in infants and young children, but they can also occur in older children and adults.
extraskeletal: listen (EK-struh-SKEH-leh-tul); Located or occurring outside of the bone. Also called extraosseous.
extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma: listen (EK-struh-SKEH-leh-tul YOO-ing sar-KOH-muh); A rare type of Ewing sarcoma that forms in soft tissue instead of bone. It usually occurs in the chest, pelvis, thigh, foot, or spine. Extraskeletal Ewing sarcomas usually occur in children and young adults. They belong to a group of cancers called Ewing sarcoma family of tumors. Also called extraosseous Ewing tumor and extraskeletal Ewing tumor.
extraskeletal Ewing tumor: listen (EK-struh-SKEH-leh-tul YOO-ing TOO-mer); A rare type of Ewing sarcoma that forms in soft tissue instead of bone. It usually occurs in the chest, pelvis, thigh, foot, or spine. Extraskeletal Ewing tumors usually occur in children and young adults. They belong to a group of cancers called Ewing sarcoma family of tumors. Also called extraosseous Ewing tumor and extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma.
extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma: listen (EK-struh-SKEH-leh-tul meh-ZEN-kih-mul KON-droh-sar-KOH-muh); A rare type of cancer that forms in cartilage or other soft tissue but not in bone. It usually occurs in the head and neck. Most extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcomas are fast-growing and may spread to other parts of the body. They may also recur (come back) many years after treatment. Extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma usually occurs in young adults. It is a type of soft tissue sarcoma.
extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma: listen (EK-struh-SKEH-leh-tul MIK-soyd KON-droh-sar-KOH-muh); A rare type of cancer that forms in cartilage near bones. It usually occurs in the thigh, knee, buttock, or trunk (chest and abdomen). The tumor may grow large and spread to nearby tissue or to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes and lungs. It may also recur (come back) many years after treatment. The cancer cells usually have a certain genetic change called a translocation (part of one chromosome switches places with part of another chromosome). Extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma usually occurs in middle-aged or older adults, and is rare in children and adolescents. It is a type of soft tissue sarcoma.
extraskeletal osteosarcoma: listen (EK-struh-SKEH-leh-tul OS-tee-oh-sar-KOH-muh); A rare, fast-growing type of cancer that is made up of bone and cartilage cells, and forms in soft tissue near bones. It usually occurs in the thigh, buttock, shoulder, or trunk (chest and abdomen). It often recurs (comes back) after treatment and spreads to other parts of the body, including the lungs. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma usually occurs in middle-aged or older adults, and is rare in children and adolescents. It is a type of soft tissue sarcoma. Also called extraosseous osteosarcoma.
extrauterine pregnancy: listen (EK-struh-YOO-teh-rin PREG-nun-see); A condition in which a fertilized egg grows outside of the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. Symptoms include sharp pain on one side of the abdomen and bleeding from the vagina. Also called ectopic pregnancy.
extravasation: listen (ek-STRA-vuh-SAY-shun); The leakage of blood, lymph, or other fluid, such as an anticancer drug, from a blood vessel or tube into the tissue around it. It is also used to describe the movement of cells out of a blood vessel into tissue during inflammation or metastasis (the spread of cancer).
extravasation injury: listen (ek-STRA-vuh-SAY-shun IN-jer-ee); Blistering and tissue damage caused by certain drugs when they leak out of a vein into the tissue around it. The damage is sometimes severe and can lead to tissue necrosis (tissue death).
extremely dense breast tissue: listen (ek-STREEM-lee dents brest TIH-shoo); A term used to describe breast tissue that is made up of almost all dense fibrous tissue and glandular tissue. On a mammogram, the dense areas of the breast make it harder to find tumors or other changes. Women who have extremely dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer than those who have little or no dense breast tissue. Extremely dense breast tissue is one of four categories used to describe a level of breast density seen on a mammogram. About 10% of women have this type of breast tissue.
extremely low frequency electromagnetic field: listen (ek-STREEM-lee … FREE-kwen-see ee-LEK-troh-mag-NEH-tik feeld); A type of very low-energy radiation that travels in long waves. Although there have been health concerns, it is not known to cause harmful health effects, including cancer. The most common sources of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields are power lines, electrical wiring, and electrical appliances, such as shavers, hair dryers, and electric blankets. Also called ELF-EMF.
extremity: listen (ek-STREH-mih-tee); A limb of the body, such as the arm or leg.
eye cancer: listen (i KAN-ser); Cancer that forms in tissues of and around the eye. Some of the cancers that may affect the eye include melanoma (a rare cancer that begins in cells that make the pigment melanin in the eye), carcinoma (cancer that begins in tissues that cover structures in the eye), lymphoma (cancer that begins in immune system cells), and retinoblastoma (cancer that begins in the retina and usually occurs in children younger than 5 years).
EZN-2285: A drug used with other drugs to treat acute lymphoblastic lymphoma in children and young adults aged 1 month to 21 years. EZN-2285 is a form of the drug L-asparaginase that is linked to a substance called SC-PEG, which makes the drug stay in the body longer. L-asparaginase is an enzyme taken from the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli). It breaks down the amino acid asparagine and may stop the growth of cancer cells that need asparagine to grow. EZN-2285 is a type of protein synthesis inhibitor. Also called Asparlas, calaspargase pegol, and SC-PEG E. coli L-asparaginase.