Approaches in a Cure for Advanced Colon Cancer

A term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and can invade nearby tissues. Cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems. There are several main types of cancer. Carcinoma is a cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs. Sarcoma is a cancer that begins in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue. Leukemia is a cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow, and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced and enter the blood. Lymphoma and multiple myeloma are cancers that begin in the cells of the immune system. Central nervous system cancers are cancers that begin in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord. Also called malignancy.

Treatment with drugs that kill cancer cells.

Having to do with the colon or the rectum.

The blocking of an artery by a clot or foreign material. Embolization can be done as treatment to block the flow of blood to a tumor.

A large organ located in the upper abdomen. The liver cleanses the blood and aids in digestion by secreting bile.

A health professional trained to care for people who are ill or disabled.

Medical doctor.

Health services that meet most basic health care needs over time. Primary care includes physical exams, treatment of common medical conditions, and preventive care such as immunizations and screenings. Primary care doctors are usually the first health professionals patients see for basic medical care. They may refer a patient to a specialist if needed.

A device that is used to give a controlled amount of a liquid at a specific rate. For example, pumps are used to give drugs (such as chemotherapy or pain medicine) or nutrients.

In oncology, describes the body area right around a tumor.

A procedure to remove or repair a part of the body or to find out whether disease is present. An operation.

Affecting the entire body.