Glossary | Carcinoid and Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Cancer Research

Glossary

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5-Fluorouracil: A type of chemotherapy drug used to treat symptoms of cancer of the colon, breast, stomach, and pancreas. It is also used in a cream to treat certain skin conditions. 5-fluorouracil stops cells from making DNA and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimetabolite. Also called 5-FU and fluorouracil.
5-HIAA: 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) is a metabolite (a product from the breakdown of) serotonin. Serotonin is one of the most commonly secreted hormones by carcinoid tumors of the midgut and sometimes those of the foregut. Consequently, 5-HIAA is usually elevated in midgut carcinoids, but not in any others. A 24-hour urine collection is used to measure 5-HIAA levels. Certain foods such as bananas, walnuts, avocados and caffeine can also have an effect on 5-HIAA levels. Be sure to speak with your physician for a complete list for testing.
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Acromegaly: A condition in which the pituitary gland makes too much growth hormone after normal growth of the skeleton is finished. This causes the bones of the hands, feet, head, and face to grow larger than normal. Acromegaly can be caused by a pituitary gland tumor.
Adenocarcinoma: Cancer that starts in the glandular tissue, such as in the ducts or lobules of the breast.
Adrenal Gland: A small gland that makes steroid hormones, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. These hormones help control heart rate, blood pressure, and other important body functions. There are two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney. Also called suprarenal gland.
Adrenaline: A hormone and neurotransmitter. Also called epinephrine.
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH): A substance produced by some neuroendocrine tumors/cancers that causes the adrenal glands to make too many hormones. This can cause weight gain, weakness, high blood sugar (even diabetes), and increased body and facial hair.
Alpha Thalassemia / Mental Retardation Syndrome X-Linked (ATRX): The protein encoded by this gene contains an ATPase/helicase domain, and thus it belongs to the SWI/SNF family of chromatin remodeling proteins. The mutations of this gene are associated with an X-linked mental retardation (XLMR) syndrome most often accompanied by alpha-thalassemia (ATRX) syndrome. These mutations have been shown to cause diverse changes in the pattern of DNA methylation, which may provide a link between chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, and gene expression in developmental processes. This protein is found to undergo cell cycle-dependent phosphorylation, which regulates its nuclear matrix and chromatin association, and suggests its involvement in the gene regulation at interphase and chromosomal segregation in mitosis. Multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been reported.
Anemia: A condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal.
Antagonist: In medicine, a substance that stops the action or effect of another substance. For example, a drug that blocks the stimulating effect of estrogen on a tumor cell is called an estrogen receptor antagonist.
Appendectomy: Surgery to remove the appendix (small finger-shaped pouch at the end of the first part of the large intestine).
Appendix: A small, fingerlike pouch that sticks out from the cecum (the first part of the large intestine near the end of the small intestine).
Atypical: Not usual; abnormal. Also called atypia (a-tip-ee-yuh). Often refers to the appearance of cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.
Autoimmune Disease: A condition in which the body recognizes its own tissues as foreign and directs an immune response against them.
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BCL2: A protein that helps control whether a cell lives or dies by blocking a type of cell death called apoptosis. The gene for BCL2 is found on chromosome 18, and transfer of the BCL2 gene to a different chromosome is seen in many B-cell leukemias and lymphomas. This causes the BCL2 protein to be made in larger amounts, which may keep cancer cells from dying. Also called B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 protein.
Benign: Not cancerous. Benign tumors may grow larger but do not spread to other parts of the body. Also called nonmalignant.
Biochemical Reactions: In living cells, chemical reactions that help sustain life and allow cells to grow.
Biopsy: The removal of cells or tissues for examination by a pathologist. The pathologist may study the tissue under a microscope or perform other tests on the cells or tissue. There are many different types of biopsy procedures. The most common types include: (1) incisional biopsy, in which only a sample of tissue is removed; (2) excisional biopsy, in which an entire lump or suspicious area is removed; and (3) needle biopsy, in which a sample of tissue or fluid is removed with a needle. When a wide needle is used, the procedure is called a core biopsy. When a thin needle is used, the procedure is called a fine-needle aspiration biopsy.
Bone Marrow: The soft, spongy tissue in the hollow middle of flat bones of the body where new blood cells are made.
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Calcitonin: A hormone formed by the C cells of the thyroid gland. It helps maintain a healthy level of calcium in the blood. When the calcium level is too high, calcitonin lowers it.
Cancer: Cancer is the general name for any disease in which cells in a part of the body begin to grow out of control. There are many different types of cancer but in all cancers cells divide without control and can invade nearby tissues.
Carcinoembryonic Antigen: A substance that is sometimes found in an increased amount in the blood of people who have certain cancers, other diseases, or who smoke. It is used as a tumor marker for colorectal cancer. Also called CEA.
Carcinogen: Any substance that causes cancer or helps cancer grow. For example, tobacco smoke contains many carcinogens that greatly increase the risk of lung cancer.
Carcinoid Cancer: Carcinoid cancer (also called carcinoid tumor) is a slow-growing type of neuroendocrine tumor, originating in the cells of the neuroendocrine system.
Carcinoid Syndrome: Caused by excess hormone production, carcinoid syndrome is characterized by brief episodes of flushing, diarrhea, cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, heart disease, and in rare cases, pellagra. Flushing and diarrhea are the two main symptoms that are associated with carcinoid syndrome. Diarrhea can be mild to severe which may lead to weight loss and life style changes. The flushing may be light pink to a deep red and occurs in the face and in the nipple-line. It may be triggered by stress, alcohol, exercise and certain types of foods.
Carcinoma: Cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs.
Carcinoma In Situ: An early stage of cancer in which the tumor is confined to the organ where it first developed. The disease has not invaded other parts of the organ or spread to distant parts of the body. Most in situ carcinomas are highly curable.
Carney Complex: A rare, inherited disorder marked by dark spots on the skin and tumors in the heart, endocrine glands, skin, and nerves. There are two types of Carney complex, which are caused by mutations (changes) in different genes. Also called Carney syndrome.
Catecholamine: A type of neurohormone (a chemical that is made by nerve cells and used to send signals to other cells). Catecholamines are important in stress responses. High levels cause high blood pressure which can lead to headaches, sweating, pounding of the heart, pain in the chest, and anxiety. Examples of catecholamines include dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), and norepinephrine (noradrenaline).
Cecum: A pouch that forms the first part of the large intestine. It connects the small intestine to the colon, which is part of the large intestine.
Central Nervous System: The brain and spinal cord. Also called CNS.
Chemoembolization: A procedure in which the blood supply to the tumor is blocked surgically or mechanically and anticancer drugs are administered directly into the tumor. This permits a higher concentration of drug to be in contact with the tumor for a longer period of time.
Chemotherapy: Treatment with drugs that kill cancer cells.
Chromaffin Cell: A type of cell that makes neurohormones (chemicals that are made by nerve cells and used to send signals to other cells) and releases them into the blood. Chromaffin cells make epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). They are found in the adrenal glands or in groups of nerve cells called ganglia.
Chromogranin A (CgA): Chromogranin A is a secretory protein that is common to most neuroendocrine tumor cells, and is a general tumor marker for neuroendocrine tumors. Since it is secreted into the blood stream it can be measured by a simple blood test.
Circulatory System: The system that contains the heart and the blood vessels and moves blood throughout the body. This system helps tissues get enough oxygen and nutrients, and it helps them get rid of waste products. The lymph system, which connects with the blood system, is often considered part of the circulatory system.
Cisplatin: A drug used to treat many types of cancer. Cisplatin contains the metal platinum. It kills cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing. Cisplatin is a type of alkylating agent. Also called Platinol.
Cushing Syndrome: A condition in which there is too much cortisol (a hormone made by the outer layer of the adrenal gland) in the body. Cushing syndrome may be caused by taking too many steroid drugs or by certain types of tumors. Tumors that make adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) cause the adrenal gland to make too much cortisol. Symptoms of Cushing syndrome include a round face, thin arms and legs, severe fatigue and muscle weakness, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, purple or pink stretch marks on the skin, and weight gain, especially in the abdomen.
Cyclophosphamide: A drug that is used to treat many types of cancer and is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It is also used to treat some types of kidney disease in children. Cyclophosphamide attaches to DNA in cells and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of alkylating agent. Also called CTX and Cytoxan.
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Dacarbazine: A drug that is used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma and malignant melanoma and is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It attaches to DNA in cells and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of alkylating agent. Also called DTIC-Dome.
Death-Domain Associated Protient (DAXX): This gene encodes a multifunctional protein that resides in multiple locations in the nucleus and in the cytoplasm. It interacts with a wide variety of proteins, such as apoptosis antigen Fas, centromere protein C, and transcription factor erythroblastosis virus E26 oncogene homolog 1. In the nucleus, the encoded protein functions as a potent transcription repressor that binds to sumoylated transcription factors. Its repression can be relieved by the sequestration of this protein into promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies or nucleoli. This protein also associates with centromeres in G2 phase. In the cytoplasm, the encoded protein may function to regulate apoptosis. The subcellular localization and function of this protein are modulated by post-translational modifications, including sumoylation, phosphorylation and polyubiquitination. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants.
Diarrhea: Frequent and watery bowel movements.
Disseminate: Scatter or distribute over a large area or range.
DNA Replication: The process by which a copy of the DNA in a cell is made before the cell divides.
Dopamine: A chemical messenger in the brain and nervous system. Dopamine is thought to control balance, movement, and other body functions. It also affects the mood and is linked to feelings of pleasure.
Double-Contrast Barium Enema: A procedure in which x-rays of the colon and rectum are taken after a liquid containing barium is put into the rectum. Barium is a silver-white metallic compound that outlines the colon and rectum on an x-ray and helps show abnormalities. Air is put into the rectum and colon to further enhance the x-ray.
Doxazosin: A drug used to treat high blood pressure and urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. It relaxes muscle tissue in blood vessels and in the prostate. Doxazosin is a type of alpha blocker. Also called Cardura and doxazosin mesylate.
Doxorubicin: A drug that is used to treat many types of cancer and is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Doxorubicin comes from the bacterium Streptomyces peucetius. It damages DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of anthracycline antitumor antibiotic. Also called Adriamycin PFS, Adriamycin RDF, doxorubicin hydrochloride, hydroxydaunorubicin, and Rubex.
Duodenum: The first part of the small intestine that connects to the stomach.
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Edema: Swelling caused by excess fluid in body tissues.
Electrolyte: 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.
Embolism: A block in an artery caused by blood clots or other substances, such as fat globules, infected tissue, or cancer cells.
Embolization: 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.
Endocrine: 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.
Endoscopic Ultrasound: 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.
Etoposide: A drug used to treat testicular and small cell lung cancers. It is also being studied in the treatment of several 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 Toposar and Vepesid.
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False-Positive: A test result that indicates that a person has a specific disease or condition when the person actually does not have the disease or condition.
Familial: Cancer that occurs in families more often than would be expected by chance. These cancers often occur at an early age, and may indicate the presence of a gene mutation that increases the risk of cancer. They may also be a sign of shared environmental or lifestyle factors.
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: An inherited condition that is a risk factor for developing colorectal cancer at a young age. People with this syndrome develop polyps in the colon and rectum. Usually one or more of these polyps becomes cancerous if it is not removed. FAP is caused by changes in the APC gene.
Fibrosis: The growth of fibrous tissue.
Functioning Tumor: A functioning neuroendocrine tumor secretes biologically active hormones causing a clinical syndrome.
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Gastrin: A hormone released from special cells in the lining of the stomach after eating. Gastrin causes the stomach to release an acid that helps digest of food.
Gastrinoma: A tumor that causes overproduction of gastric acid. It usually begins in the duodenum (first part of the small intestine that connects to the stomach) or the islet cells of the pancreas. Rarely, it may also begin in other organs, including the stomach, liver, jejunum (the middle part of the small intestine), biliary tract (organs and ducts that make and store bile), mesentery, or heart. It is a type of neuroendocrine tumor, and it may metastasize (spread) to the liver and the lymph nodes.
Gastrointestinal Tract: The stomach and intestines. The gastrointestinal tract is part of the digestive system, which also includes the salivary glands, mouth, esophagus, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and rectum.
Glucagon: A hormone produced by the pancreas that increases the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood.
Glucagonomas: A rare pancreatic tumor that produces a hormone called glucagon. Glucagonomas can produce symptoms similar to diabetes.
Glucocorticoid: A compound that belongs to the family of compounds called corticosteroids (steroids). Glucocorticoids affect metabolism and have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. They may be naturally produced (hormones) or synthetic (drugs).
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Heparin: A substance that slows the formation of blood clots. Heparin is made by the liver, lungs, and other tissues in the body and can also made in the laboratory. Heparin may be injected into muscle or blood to prevent or break up blood clots. It is a type of anticoagulant.
Hereditary Cancer Syndrome: Conditions linked with cancers that occur in several family members because of an inherited, mutated gene.
Hormone: Hormones are one of the body’s ways of sending internal messages. These messengers are produced by cells and carry a very specific message that is received by specific receptors on other cells in the body. Only a small amount of hormone needs to be produced in order to convey a message. However even though only a small amount of hormone is needed, once the hormone is received it can cause major changes within the body.
Hyperactivity: A higher than normal level of activity. Hyperactivity can be used to describe the increased action of a body function, such as hormone production, or behavior. A person who is hyperactive may seem to be always moving or fidgeting, impulsive, unable to concentrate, and talking too much.
Hypoglycemia: Abnormally low blood sugar.
Hypotension: Abnormally low blood pressure.
Hypothalamus: The area of the brain that controls body temperature, hunger, and thirst.
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Insulin: A hormone made by the islet cells of the pancreas. Insulin controls the amount of sugar in the blood by moving it into the cells, where it can be used by the body for energy.
Interferon: A protein produced by cells. Interferon helps regulate the body's immune system, boosting activity when a threat, such as a virus, is found. Scientists have learned that interferon helps fight against cancer, so it is used to treat some types of cancer.
Intravenous (IV): A method of giving fluids and medicines using a needle or a thin tube that is put into a vein.
Invasive Procedure: A medical procedure that invades (enters) the body, usually by cutting or puncturing the skin or by inserting instruments into the body.
Iodine: An element that is necessary for the body to make thyroid hormone. It is found in shellfish and iodized salt.
Islet Cell: 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 endocrine pancreas cell and islet of Langerhans cell.
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Laparoscopy: A procedure that uses a laparoscope, inserted through the abdominal wall, to examine the inside of the abdomen. A laparoscope 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.
Large Cell Carcinoma: Lung cancer in which the cells are large and look abnormal when viewed under a microscope.
Lethargy: A condition marked by drowsiness and an unusual lack of energy and mental alertness. It can be caused by many things, including illness, injury, or drugs.
Leukocyte: A type of immune cell. Most leukocytes are made in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and lymph tissue. Leukocytes help the body fight infections and other diseases. Granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes are leukocytes. Also called WBC and white blood cell.
LH: A hormone made in the pituitary gland. In females, it acts on the ovaries to make follicles release their eggs and to make hormones that get the uterus ready for a fertilized egg to be implanted. In males, it acts on the testes to cause cells to grow and make testosterone. Also called interstitial cell-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and lutropin.
Localized: Restricted to the site of origin, without evidence of spread.
Loperamide Hydrochloride: A drug used to treat diarrhea. Loperamide hydrochloride slows the movement of the muscles in the small intestine to allow more water to be taken out of the feces (waste matter) and more nutrients to be absorbed. Also called Imodium.
Lupus: A chronic, inflammatory, connective tissue disease that can affect the joints and many organs, including the skin, heart, lungs, kidneys, and nervous system. It can cause many different symptoms; however, not everyone with lupus has all of the symptoms. Also called SLE and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Lymph Nodes: Small bean-shaped collections of immune system tissue, such as lymphocytes, found along lymphatic vessels. They remove cell waste, germs, and other harmful substances from lymph. They help fight infections and also have a role in fighting cancer, although cancers sometimes spread through them. Also called lymph glands.
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Malignant: Cancerous. Malignant tumors can invade and destroy nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
Marker: A diagnostic indication that disease may develop.
Menin: Menin is a protein that in humans is encoded by the MEN1 gene. Menin is a putative tumor suppressor associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1.
Metabolic: Having to do with metabolism (the total of all chemical changes that take place in a cell or an organism to produce energy and basic materials needed for important life processes).
Metastasis: Cancer metastasis occurs when cancer cells spread away from the primary tumor to one or more sites in the body, often by way of the lymph system or bloodstream. Regional or local metastasis is cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes, tissues, or organs close to the primary site. Distant metastasis is cancer that has spread to organs or tissues that are farther away (such as when prostate cancer spreads to the bones, lungs, or liver). The plural of this word is metastases.
MRI: A procedure in which radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to create detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures can show the difference between normal and diseased tissue. MRI makes better images of organs and soft tissue than other scanning techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) or x-ray. MRI is especially useful for imaging the brain, the spine, the soft tissue of joints, and the inside of bones. Also called magnetic resonance imaging, NMRI, and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging.
Multidrug Resistance: Resistance of tumor cells to several unrelated drugs after being exposed to a single chemotherapy drug. May also refer to infections that can no longer be cured by the usual antibiotics.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia I Gene (MEN1 gene): The MEN1 gene provides instructions for making a protein called menin, a protein which acts as a tumor suppressor and is associated with a syndrome known as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 Syndrome (MEN1 syndrome): MEN1 is an autosomal dominant inherited syndrome characterized by multiple endocrine and non-endocrine tumors (Brandi et al., 2001). The tumors most frequently observed in patients with MEN1 include parathyroid adenomas, pituitary adenomas, and pancreatic endocrine tumors.
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Nervous System: The organized network of nerve tissue in the body. It includes the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), the peripheral nervous system (nerves that extend from the spinal cord to the rest of the body), and other nerve tissue.
Neuroblastoma: Cancer that arises in immature nerve cells and affects mostly infants and children.
Neuroendocrine: Having to do with the interactions between the nervous system and the endocrine system. Neuroendocrine describes certain cells that release hormones into the blood in response to stimulation of the nervous system.
Neurofibromatosis Type 1: A rare genetic condition that causes brown spots and tumors on the skin, freckling in skin areas not exposed to the sun, tumors on the nerves, and developmental changes in the nervous system, muscles, bone, and skin. Also called NF1.
Neurofibromatosis Type 2: A genetic condition in which tumors form on the nerves of the inner ear and cause loss of hearing and balance. Tumors may also occur in the brain and on nerves in the skull and spinal cord, and may cause loss of speech, eye movement, and the ability to swallow. Also called acoustic neurofibromatosis and NF2.
Nonfunctioning Tumor: A tumor that is found in endocrine tissue but that does not make extra hormones (chemicals that travel in the blood and control the actions of other cells or organs).
Noninvasive: In medicine, it describes a procedure that does not require inserting an instrument through the skin or into a body opening. In cancer, it describes disease that has not spread outside the tissue in which it began.
Noradrenaline: A chemical made by some nerve cells and in the adrenal gland. It can act as both a neurotransmitter (a chemical messenger used by nerve cells) and a hormone (a chemical that travels in the blood and controls the actions of other cells or organs). Noradrenaline is released from the adrenal gland in response to stress and low blood pressure. Also called norepinephrine.
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Octreotide: A drug similar to the naturally occurring growth hormone inhibitor somatostatin. Octreotide is used to treat diarrhea and flushing associated with certain types of tumors.
Omeprazole: A drug that inhibits gastric acid secretion.
Oncogenes: Genes that promote cell growth and multiplication. Oncogenes occur in all cells but may become activated, causing cells to grow too quickly and form tumors.
Opioids: A substance used to treat moderate to severe pain. Opioids are like opiates, such as morphine and codeine, but are not made from opium. Opioids bind to opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Opioids used to be called narcotics. An opioid is a type of alkaloid.
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Palpitation: A rapid or irregular heartbeat that a person can feel.
Pancreas: A glandular organ located in the abdomen. It makes pancreatic juices, which contain enzymes that aid in digestion, and it produces several hormones, including insulin. The pancreas is surrounded by the stomach, intestines, and other organs.
Paraganglia: A collection of cells that came from embryonic nervous tissue, and are found near the adrenal glands and some blood vessels and nerves. Most paraganglia secrete epinephrine and norepinephrine.
Paraganglioma: A rare, usually benign tumor that develops from cells of the paraganglia. Paraganglia are a collection of cells that came from embryonic nervous tissue, and are found near the adrenal glands and some blood vessels and nerves. Paragangliomas that develop in the adrenal gland are called pheochromocytomas. Those that develop outside of the adrenal glands near blood vessels or nerves are called glomus tumors or chemodectomas.
Parasitic: Having to do with or being a parasite (an animal or plant that gets nutrients by living on or in an organism of another species).
Parathyroid hormone: A substance made by the parathyroid gland that helps the body store and use calcium. A higher-than-normal amount of parathyroid hormone causes high levels of calcium in the blood and may be a sign of disease. Also called parathormone, parathyrin, and PTH.
PET Scan: A procedure in which a small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into a vein, and a scanner is used to make detailed, computerized pictures of areas inside the body where the glucose is used. Because cancer cells often use more glucose than normal cells, the pictures can be used to find cancer cells in the body. Also called PET scan.
Pheochromocytoma: Tumor that forms in the center of the adrenal gland (gland located above the kidney) that causes it to make too much adrenaline. Pheochromocytomas are usually benign (not cancer) but can cause high blood pressure, pounding headaches, heart palpitations, flushing of the face, nausea, and vomiting.
Pituitary Gland: The main endocrine gland. It produces hormones that control other glands and many body functions, especially growth.
Prednisolone: A drug that lessens inflammation and suppresses the body’s immune response. It may also kill cancer cells. Prednisolone is used to treat disorders in many organ systems and to treat the symptoms of several types of leukemia and lymphoma. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Prednisolone is a type of therapeutic glucocorticoid.
Protein 53 (p53): p53 is a tumor suppressor protein that in humans is encoded by the TP53 gene. p53 is important in multicellular organisms, where it regulates the cell cycle and, thus, functions as a tumor suppressor that is involved in preventing cancer. As such, p53 has been described as "the guardian of the genome", referring to its role in conserving stability by preventing genome mutation.
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Radiation: Energy released in the form of particle or electromagnetic waves. Common sources of radiation include radon gas, cosmic rays from outer space, medical x-rays, and energy given off by a radioisotope (unstable form of a chemical element that releases radiation as it breaks down and becomes more stable).
Radiation Therapy: The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation may come from a machine outside the body (external-beam radiation therapy), or it may come from radioactive material placed in the body near cancer cells (internal radiation therapy). Systemic radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance, such as a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that travels in the blood to tissues throughout the body. Also called irradiation and radiotherapy.
Radioactive Drug: A drug that contains a radioactive substance and is used to diagnose or treat disease, including cancer. Also called radiopharmaceutical.
Radiology: The use of radiation (such as x-rays) or other imaging technologies (such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging) to diagnose or treat disease.
Radiopharmaceutical: A drug that contains a radioactive substance and is used to diagnose or treat disease, including cancer. Also called radioactive drug.
Radiotherapy: The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation may come from a machine outside the body (external-beam radiation therapy), or it may come from radioactive material placed in the body near cancer cells (internal radiation therapy). Systemic radiotherapy uses a radioactive substance, such as a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that travels in the blood to tissues throughout the body. Also called irradiation and radiation therapy.
Receptor: A molecule inside or on the surface of a cell that binds to a specific substance and causes a specific physiologic effect in the cell.
Rectum: The last several inches of the large intestine closest to the anus.
Resistant Cancer: Cancer that does not respond to treatment. The cancer may be resistant at the beginning of treatment, or it may become resistant during treatment. Also called refractory cancer.
Respiratory Tract: The organs that are involved in breathing. These include the nose, throat, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. Also called respiratory system.
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Scintigraphy: A procedure that produces pictures (scans) of structures inside the body, including areas where there are cancer cells. Scintigraphy is used to diagnose, stage, and monitor disease. A small amount of a radioactive chemical (radionuclide) is injected into a vein or swallowed. Different radionuclides travel through the blood to different organs. A machine with a special camera moves over the person lying on a table and detects the type of radiation given off by the radionuclides. A computer forms an image of the areas where the radionuclide builds up. These areas may contain cancer cells. Also called radionuclide scanning.
Screening: Checking for disease when there are no symptoms. Since screening may find diseases at an early stage, there may be a better chance of curing the disease. Examples of cancer screening tests are the mammogram (breast), colonoscopy (colon), Pap smear (cervix), and PSA blood level and digital rectal exam (prostate). Screening can also include checking for a person’s risk of developing an inherited disease by doing a genetic test.
Serotonin: A hormone found in the brain, platelets, digestive tract, and pineal gland. It acts both as a neurotransmitter (a substance that nerves use to send messages to one another) and a vasoconstrictor (a substance that causes blood vessels to narrow). A lack of serotonin in the brain is thought to be a cause of depression. Also called 5-hydroxytryptamine.
Sigmoid Colon: The S-shaped section of the colon that connects to the rectum.
Small Intestine: The part of the digestive tract that is located between the stomach and the large intestine.
Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy: A type of radionuclide scan used to find carcinoid and other types of tumors. Radioactive octreotide, a drug similar to somatostatin, is injected into a vein and travels through the bloodstream. The radioactive octreotide attaches to tumor cells that have receptors for somatostatin. A radiation-measuring device detects the radioactive octreotide, and makes pictures showing where the tumor cells are in the body. Also called octreotide scan and SRS.
Staging: Performing exams and tests to learn the extent of the cancer within the body, especially whether the disease has spread from the original site to other parts of the body. It is important to know the stage of the disease in order to plan the best treatment.
Streptozocin: An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
Sunflower: The sunflower symbol reflects the Caring for Carcinoid Foundation's (CFCF's) mission to find a cure for neuroendocrine tumors. The sunflower's appearance reminds us of power, warmth, nourishment, and longevity. The flower symbolizes constancy as it turns to follow the sun. The CFCF, though it is ony one foundation, is comprised of individuals who are united in support of one another. We gain nourishment via information. We help patients realized their hopes of longevity. The sunflower symbol reminds us of the many individuals who dedicate themselves to discovering a cure for neuroendocrine tumors. Together we are powerful.
Symptomatic: Having to do with symptoms, which are signs of a condition or disease.
Systemic: Affecting the entire body.
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Telangiectasia: The permanent enlargement of blood vessels, causing redness in the skin or mucous membranes.
Teratoma: A type of germ cell tumor that may contain several different types of tissue, such as hair, muscle, and bone. Teratomas occur most often in the ovaries in women, the testicles in men, and the tailbone in children. Not all teratomas are malignant.
Terazosin: A drug used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. It is also used to treat high blood pressure and is being studied in the treatment of other conditions. Terazosin relaxes muscle tissue in blood vessels and in the prostate. It is a type of alpha blocker. Also called Hytrin and terazosin hydrochloride.
Thymic Carcinoma: A rare type of thymus gland cancer. It usually spreads, has a high risk of recurrence, and has a poor survival rate. Thymic carcinoma is divided into subtypes, depending on the types of cells in which the cancer began. Also called type C thymoma.
Thymus: An organ that is part of the lymphatic system, in which T lymphocytes grow and multiply. The thymus is in the chest behind the breastbone.
Thyroid Gland: A gland located beneath the larynx (voice box) that makes thyroid hormone and calcitonin. The thyroid gland helps regulate growth and metabolism. Also called thyroid
Thyroidectomy: Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid.
Tuberous Sclerosis: A genetic disorder in which benign (not cancer) tumors form in the kidneys, brain, eyes, heart, lungs, and skin. This disease can cause seizures, mental disabilities, and different types of skin lesions.
Tumor Suppressor Gene: A type of gene that makes a protein called a tumor suppressor protein that helps control cell growth. Mutations (changes in DNA) in tumor suppressor genes may lead to cancer. Also called antioncogene.
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Ulcer: A break on the skin, in the lining of an organ, or on the surface of a tissue. An ulcer forms when the surface cells become inflamed, die, and are shed. Ulcers may be linked to cancer and other diseases.
Ultrasound: A procedure in which high-energy sound waves are bounced off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echo patterns are shown on the screen of an ultrasound machine, forming a picture of body tissues called a sonogram. Also called ultrasonography.
Urinalysis: A test that determines the content of the urine.
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Vascular Endothelia Growth Factor (VEGF) Inhibitors: All cells require an adequate blood supply to survive. Cancer cells, since they tend to replicate faster than normal cells, require an even greater blood supply. In order to achieve this, many tumors, including neuroendocrine tumors, undergo angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a highly specialized chemical signal that cells produce in order to stimulate new blood vessel growth. In neuroendocrine tumors, this signal is over expressed. Targeted therapies called angiogenic inhibitors are currently being investigated to see if they can effectively suppress VEGF in carcinoid or inhibit pathways that would disrupt its production or effects. Bevacizumab and sunitinib malate are two drug therapies that interrupt VEGF and their effects on carcinoid are being investigated. To learn more about these therapies and other investigational trials, please visit the clinical trials section of the Caring for Carcinoid Foundation’s website.
Ventricle: A fluid-filled cavity in the heart or brain.
Vincristine: The active ingredient in a drug used to treat acute leukemia. It is used in combination with other drugs to treat Hodgkin disease, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, and Wilms tumor. Vincristine is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It blocks cell growth by stopping cell division. It is a type of vinca alkaloid and a type of antimitotic agent.
Vitamin B12: A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin B12 helps make red blood cells, DNA, RNA, energy, and tissues, and keeps nerve cells healthy. It is found in liver, meat, eggs, poultry, shellfish, milk, and milk products. Vitamin B12 is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Not enough vitamin B12 can cause certain types of anemia (a condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal) and neurologic disorders. It is being studied with folate in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. Also called cobalamin and cyanocobalamin.
Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome: A rare inherited disorder in which blood vessels grow abnormally in the eyes, brain, spinal cord, adrenal glands, or other parts of the body. People with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome have a higher risk of developing some types of cancer. Also called VHL syndrome.
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X-Ray: A type of high-energy radiation. In low doses, x-rays are used to diagnose diseases by making pictures of the inside of the body. In high doses, x-rays are used to treat cancer.
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Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: A disorder in which tumors of the pancreatic islet cells produce large amounts of gastrin (a hormone), leading to excess acid in the stomach and, possibly, a peptic ulcer (ulcer of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine).