A type of
tumor that begins in the type of cells that give rise to egg cells and is most often found in the ovaries. Dysgerminomas may also occur in other places in the body, including the
central nervous system. They are the most common type of
ovarian germ cell tumor and can spread to other parts of the body. They are most common in females who are younger than 20 years old.
cell (sel)
The individual unit that makes up the tissues of the body. All living things are made up of one or more cells.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)central nervous system (SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem)
The brain and spinal cord. Also called CNS.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)germ (jerm)
A bacterium, virus, or other microorganism that can cause infection and disease.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)ovarian (oh-VAYR-ee-un)
Having to do with the ovaries, the female reproductive glands in which the ova (eggs) are formed. The ovaries are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)tumor (TOO-mer)
An abnormal mass of tissue that results when cells divide more than they should or do not die when they should. Tumors may be benign (not cancer), or malignant (cancer). Also called neoplasm.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)
