MEDULLARY TUMORS Meaning and
Definition
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Medullary tumors refer to a type of neoplasm or abnormal growth that affects the medulla, which is the central part or core of certain bodily structures. The term is commonly used in relation to two specific medical conditions:
1. Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC): This is a rare form of thyroid cancer that originates from the parafollicular C cells in the thyroid gland. It accounts for approximately 5-10% of all thyroid cancer cases. Medullary thyroid carcinoma is often associated with a genetic mutation in the RET proto-oncogene, known as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2), which increases the risk of developing tumors in multiple endocrine glands. Unlike other types of thyroid cancer, MTC can produce calcitonin, a hormone that can be detected in blood tests.
2. Medullary spinal cord tumors: These are tumors that develop in the medulla or central region of the spinal cord. They can arise from different types of cells within the medullary region and have various classifications, including ependymomas, astrocytomas, and glioblastomas. Medullary spinal cord tumors can cause symptoms such as pain, muscle weakness, sensory changes, and difficulties with coordination and balance.
In both cases, medullary tumors are primarily treated through surgical removal, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. Prognosis and treatment outcomes may vary depending on the specific type, grade, and stage of the tumor, as well as individual factors like overall health and age. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to detect any recurrence or metastasis of the tumor.
Common Misspellings for MEDULLARY TUMORS
- nedullary tumors
- kedullary tumors
- jedullary tumors
- mwdullary tumors
- msdullary tumors
- mddullary tumors
- mrdullary tumors
- m4dullary tumors
- m3dullary tumors
- mesullary tumors
- mexullary tumors
- mecullary tumors
- mefullary tumors
- merullary tumors
- meeullary tumors
- medyllary tumors
- medhllary tumors
- medjllary tumors
- medillary tumors
- med8llary tumors
Etymology of MEDULLARY TUMORS
The word "medullary" comes from the Latin word "medulla", which means "marrow". In this context, "medulla" refers to the innermost part or core of an organ or structure. The term "medullary tumors" is used in medicine to refer to tumors that arise from the medulla or inner core of a tissue, such as the medullary tumors of the thyroid or medullary tumors of the breast.
