Medical terms A–Z

A term used to describe abnormal cells that come from inside the cervix or from the lining of the uterus.

A condition in which there is a slow breakdown of cells in the center of the retina (the light-sensitive layers of nerve tissue at the back of the eye).

In cancer prevention, a clinical trial that studies whether taking certain medicines, vitamins, minerals, or food supplements can prevent cancer.

A substance that makes particles (such as bacteria or cells) stick together to form a clump or a mass.

Something that makes a condition worse.

In medicine, describes a tumor or disease that forms, grows, or spreads quickly.

A type of lymphoma that grows and spreads quickly and has severe symptoms.

A condition in which a person is unable to relax and be still.

A progressive, chronic disease in which the bone marrow is replaced by fibrous tissue and blood is made in organs such as the liver and the spleen, instead of in the bone marrow.

inability to recognize objects by use of the senses Difficulty recognizing familiar shapes, sounds, objects, people, and smells.

A drug or substance that binds to a receptor inside a cell or on its surface and causes the same action as the substance that normally binds to the receptor.

A type of white blood cell.

A term that has been used to describe abnormal cells that come from glands in the walls of the cervix (the lower, narrow end of the uterus).

One of a group of substances that are found in several types of fruit and in milk.

A disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Certain cancer types that are more likely to occur in people who are infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

A group of enzymes involved in several processes related to cell growth and survival.

An enzyme that is normally found in healthy kidneys.

An enzyme found in the liver and other tissues.

A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer.