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Glossary of Terms

Introduction

Parts of this glossary have been taken or adapted from the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Dictionary and the American Breast Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Dictionary.

This glossary does not contain definitions of medications. To learn more about specific medications, visit the website of the National Cancer Institute.

Many thanks to the healthcare practitioners who reviewed portions of this glossary:

  • Mechelle Barrick, RN, BSN, OCN, Greater Baltimore Medical Center
  • Debra S. Copit, MD, Albert Einstein Medical Center
  • Ann L. Honebrink, MD, Penn Health at Radnor
  • Isabel I. Law, RN, South Carolina Comprehensive Breast Center
  • Judith Macon, RN, MA, Suburban Hospital Cancer Program
  • Suzanne McGettigan Bensman, MSN, CRNP, AOCN
  • Lisa McGinty, RN, BSN, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania
  • Maria Rocktashel, MSN, CRNP, Delaware Valley Surgical Associates
  • Lynn M. Schuchter, MD, University of Pennsylvania Abramson Cancer Center
  • Michele D. Stolper, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
  • Fionda N. Williams, RN, BSN, Baltimore City Cancer Program

Glossary

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Click on a glossary term below to search the site for the selected term.
x-ray

The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink breast tumors. Radiation may come from a machine outside the body (external-beam radiation therapy) or from materials called radioisotopes. Radioisotopes produce radiation and can be placed in or near the tumor or in the area near breast cancer cells. This type of radiation treatment is called internal radiation therapy, implant radiation, interstitial radiation, or brachytherapy. Systemic radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance, such as a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that circulates throughout the body. X-ray therapy is also called radiation therapy, radiotherapy, and irradiation.

xenograft

The cells of one species transplanted to another species.

xerogram

A picture of the body recorded on paper rather than on film. Also called a xeroradiograph.

xeroradiograph

A picture of the body recorded on paper rather than on film. Also called a xerogram.

xeroradiography
Pronunciation: (ZEE-ro-ray-dee-AH-gra-fee)

A type of x-ray in which a picture of the body is recorded on paper rather than on film.

xerostomia

Dry mouth. It occurs when the body is not able to make enough saliva. Xerostomia is a side effect of some breast cancer treatments.

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Glossary of Terms