Metastasis
In Plain English: This is when cancer cells “travel” or spread from where they first started to a new part of the body.
The Science: Cancer cells break away from the original (primary) tumor and move through the blood or lymph system to form new tumors in other organs or tissues. Even if the cancer moves to a new place (like the lungs), it is still named after the original site—for example, bone cancer that has moved to the lung is called metastatic bone cancer, not lung cancer.
Oncologist
In Plain English: A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer.
The Team: You will likely have a team of oncologists. A Medical Oncologist often leads your care and manages chemotherapy; a Surgical Oncologist performs operations to remove tumors; and a Radiation Oncologist uses high-energy rays to treat the cancer.
Remission
In Plain English: A period where the signs and symptoms of your cancer have decreased or disappeared.
Partial vs. Complete: “Partial remission” means the cancer has shrunk but is still there. “Complete remission” means doctors cannot find any evidence of cancer using current tests. While it doesnt always mean the cancer is “cured” forever, it is a significant milestone in your treatment journey.
Pathology Report
In Plain English: The official “ID card” for your cancer, written by a specialist who looks at your cells under a microscope.
Why it Matters: This document identifies the specific type of cancer, its grade (how fast it might grow), and whether it has spread. It is the definitive guide your doctors use to create your personalized treatment plan.
Sarcoma
In Plain English: A broad term for cancers that start in the “connective tissues” of the body, like bones, muscles, or fat.
The Big Two: For the 15 to 35 age group, the most common sarcomas are Osteosarcoma (starting in the bone) and Ewing Sarcoma (starting in bone or nearby soft tissue).
Biopsy
In Plain English: A procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from the body to be tested.
How it Works: Doctors use a needle or a small incision to collect the sample. This is the only way to know for sure if a lump or area is cancerous and what specific type of cancer it is.
Sources: National Cancer Institute (NCI) – Dictionary of Cancer Terms
Disclaimer: The Cyrus Desai Charitable Foundation provides this information for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your oncologist or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.