The Complexities of Tumor Nomenclature: A Deep Dive into Cancer Naming
The nomenclature or naming of tumor types may seem like a seemingly minor detail, but it is not as straightforward as one would expect. The naming convention often depends on the amount of information the speaker wishes to convey and the specific context in which the term is used.
General Cancer Nomenclature
In general, cancers are described based on the tissue or organ from which they originate. For example, we commonly refer to cancers as breast cancer or lung cancer. For a more precise description, the type of cell is often stated, such as in the case of adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. In medical circles, even more precise descriptions might include molecular characteristics, like in the case of Hormone receptor positive ductile adenocarcinoma of the breast.
Special Cases: Melanoma and Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Not all tumor types follow this general naming convention. For example, melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer, and acute myeloid leukemia, which is a blood and bone marrow cancer, do not include the site of origin in their naming because these characteristics are not as crucial in identifying and treating the disease.
A Personal Perspective: My Glyoblastoma Experience
My own experience with a glioblastoma offers a vivid example of the complexity and severity of these tumors. My glioblastoma originated in the glyomas of the brain, and the prognosis is notoriously poor. The five-year survival rate for this type of cancer is approximately 3%, highlighting the challenges faced by patients and medical professionals alike.
Current standard treatment for such tumors includes a radical craniotomy followed by radiation and chemotherapy. Tumors tend to spread aggressively, and they are typically classified as stage 4, leaving limited treatment options available. This underscores the importance of an early and accurate diagnosis as well as a multidisciplinary approach, including surgeons, oncologists, and therapists.
My Journey: One Year into the Five-Year Survival Outcome
Reflecting on my journey one year into the standard five-year survival outcome, the situation remains formidable. However, remaining positive and following the advice of my medical team is my primary focus. The outlook is daunting, but I am resilient, and I am determined to make the most of the time I have left.
Thankfully, I am currently in good spirits, and the surgical challenges are behind me. Post-surgery, my scalp was secured with 52 staples, which took some time to heal and adjust to. It is a constant reminder of the physical toll of this battle, but it also serves as a testament to the remarkable advances in medical technology and the strength of the human spirit.
For now, I am focusing on living each day to the fullest, cherishing the moments that bring joy, and maintaining a positive mindset. If there is anything I can take away from this experience, it is the importance of living each day like it matters, because it does.
In conclusion, while the naming of tumors is rooted in the complexity of medical terminology, it provides valuable insights into the origin, diagnosis, and treatment of these devastating diseases. The journey of understanding and treating cancers like glioblastoma continues, and it is a testament to the resilience and determination of both patients and medical professionals.