Cervical Cancer Dictionary

adenocarcinoma: A type of cancer that involves the lining of glands, often the lungs, breasts, colon, prostate, stomach, pancreas, uterus and cervix.

adenosquamous carcinomas: A mixture of both adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas.

AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome): A sexually transmitted disease in which the immune system is attacked by the AIDS virus. AIDS makes the individual more susceptible to infection. STDs like AIDS can increase the risk of cervical cancer.

biopsy: A sample piece of tissue taken from an afflicted area of the body in order to help diagnose disease.

birth control pills: A type of drug used to prevent pregnancies.

brachytherapy: A cancer treatment technique that uses a radioactive source placed in or on the tumor. Using this therapy allows a high dose of radiation to be administered directly to the tumor, minimizing the impact on nearby tissue.

cervical cancer: A type of cancer involving the cells that line the cervix.

cervix: The bottom end of the uterus, where it connects to the vagina.

chemotherapy: A cancer treatment technique that uses drugs designed to prevent tumor cells from growing or dividing.

chlamydia: A sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacteria that, if left untreated, can result in infertility. STDs like chlamydia can also increase the risk of cervical cancer.

colposcopy: A diagnostic technique that uses a lighted microscope to examine the cervix and vagina for abnormal cells.

cryosurgery: A treatment method used to remove pre-cancerous lesions by freezing them.

diathermy: A treatment method used to remove pre-cancerous lesions by cauterizing (burning) them.

diethylstilbestrol (DES): A drug used in both estrogen-replacement therapy and to prevent miscarriages until 1971, when its use was shown to cause birth defects. Women who took DES may be at a higher risk of cervical cancer.

dysplasia: When abnormal cells are found in a non-cancerous lesion. Low numbers of abnormal cells are termed mild dysplasia, while high numbers are termed severe dysplasia.

ECC (endocervical curettage): A diagnostic technique that removes tissue from the cervix using a sharp, curved tool called a curette.