Invasive melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts from melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin. Melanocytes are normally found in the deepest part of the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). When melanoma first develops, the abnormal melanocytes remain confined to the epidermis — a stage called melanoma in situ. …
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Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for approximately 80 percent of all cases. It starts from follicular cells, the cells that normally make thyroid hormone. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck that helps regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. The word “papillary” …
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Signet ring cells are abnormal cells seen in certain types of cancer. They get their name from their shape: each cell is filled with a substance called mucin, which pushes the cell’s nucleus (the part that holds genetic material) to the side, creating an appearance similar to a ring with a gemstone. Unlike most other types …
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Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts from squamous cells, which are flat, thin cells found on the surface of the skin and lining many internal body parts, such as the mouth, throat, lungs, and cervix. It occurs when these squamous cells grow uncontrollably, forming a malignant (cancerous) tumor that can invade …
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The term “sarcomatoid” describes cancer cells that resemble those typically found in sarcomas. Sarcomas are cancers that develop from connective tissues like bones, muscles, fat, or blood vessels. Sarcomatoid cells are long, thin, and have pointed ends, giving them a spindle-shaped appearance. Pathologists often use the term sarcomatoid to indicate that these cells have a …
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A sarcoma is a type of cancer that starts in the body’s connective tissues. These tissues support and hold the body together and include bone, muscle, fat, blood vessels, nerves, and fibrous tissue (the tissue that gives structure and strength to organs). Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, sarcomas can begin almost anywhere. …
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In medicine, the word malignant is commonly used to describe a cancerous growth of cells. For instance, pathologists often refer to cancerous tumours as malignant tumours or malignant neoplasms. The term malignant can also describe serious, life-threatening conditions that aren’t cancer, such as dangerously high blood pressure (malignant hypertension) or extremely high internal body temperature …
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Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) means cancer cells have entered the tiny channels called lymphatic vessels or blood vessels within your body. These vessels normally carry fluid (lymph) or blood throughout your body. Once cancer cells enter these vessels, they may move away from the original tumor and reach lymph nodes or other body areas. Does lymphovascular …
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Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts from immune cells called lymphocytes. These cells normally protect your body from infections and disease. In lymphoma, lymphocytes become abnormal and grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that often involve lymph nodes but can also affect the spleen, bone marrow, and other organs throughout the body. What are the …
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In pathology, invasion refers to the spread of cancer cells from their original location into surrounding healthy tissues. Identifying invasion is important because it allows pathologists to distinguish between malignant (cancerous) and benign (noncancerous) tumors. Malignant tumors are characterized by invasion into nearby tissues, whereas benign tumors typically remain contained within clear and well-defined borders. …
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