The nodal stage (N stage) describes whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped parts of the immune system that help filter harmful substances. They are often one of the first places cancer cells travel after leaving the original (primary) tumor. The nodal stage is a key part of the …
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The tumor stage (T stage) describes the size of the primary tumor and how far it has grown into nearby tissues. It is one part of a more extensive pathologic staging system that describes how far the cancer has spread in the body. The tumor stage focuses only on the tumor itself – it does …
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The mitotic rate describes how many cells in a tumour are actively dividing. When cells divide, they create new cells. This is a normal process in healthy tissue, but in a tumour, a high number of dividing cells can be a sign that the tumour is growing quickly. In a pathology report, the mitotic rate …
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A neuroendocrine tumor (NET) of the larynx (also known as a well differentiated neuroendocrine tumor) is a rare type of cancer that develops from specialized cells called neuroendocrine cells, which release hormones into the blood in response to signals from the nervous system. These tumors occur in the larynx (voice box), the structure in your …
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A neuroendocrine tumor (NET) is a rare type of cancer that arises from neuroendocrine cells in the nasal cavity or sinuses. Neuroendocrine cells normally produce hormones in response to nerve signals. Tumors formed by these cells can vary widely in their behavior, from slow-growing to highly aggressive. What are the symptoms of a neuroendocrine tumor …
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Keratinizing refers to a process in which squamous cells produce and fill up with a protein called keratin. Keratin is a strong, protective substance that helps tissues resist damage and dehydration. As squamous cells become keratinizing, they grow tougher and thicker and lose their ability to function as living cells. Instead, they form a protective …
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Normocytic normochromic anemia is a type of anemia where the body has fewer red blood cells than normal. Still, these cells are normal in size (normocytic) and contain a typical amount of hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen (normochromic). Anemia occurs when there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells or the red blood cells do …
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HPV-independent squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina is a type of vaginal cancer that is not related to infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). This cancer develops when squamous cells in the lining of the vagina grow abnormally, forming a tumor that can invade surrounding tissues. To make this diagnosis, your doctors must rule out recent …
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HPV-associated squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina is a type of vaginal cancer linked to infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). It develops when HPV causes squamous cells in the lining of the vagina to grow abnormally, forming a tumor that can invade surrounding tissues. What are the symptoms of HPV-associated squamous cell carcinoma? Common symptoms …
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Androgen receptor (AR) is a protein found inside specific cells of your body. It binds to hormones known as androgens, including testosterone. These hormones play key roles in the growth and development of male characteristics, but they also have essential functions in both men and women. Why do pathologists test for androgen receptor? Pathologists test …
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