Glossary of Lung Cancer Terminology

A

Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma is a type of lung cancer that originates in the glandular cells of the lungs. It is one of the most common types of lung cancer. Learn more
Adjuvant therapy: Adjuvant therapy refers to additional treatment given after the primary treatment, such as surgery, to help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. It may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy.
ALK: ALK stands for anaplastic lymphoma kinase. It is a gene mutation that can occur in certain types of lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Testing for ALK mutations helps determine the most appropriate treatment options for patients. Learn more
Alopecia: Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. It can occur as a side effect of certain cancer treatments, including chemotherapy.
Alveolus (plural alveoli): Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide during the process of breathing. They are essential for efficient gas exchange in the lungs.
Anemia: Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. It can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Angiogenesis: Angiogenesis refers to the formation of new blood vessels. In the context of lung cancer, angiogenesis plays a crucial role in tumor growth and spread. Cancer cells release signals that promote the growth of new blood vessels to supply oxygen and nutrients to the tumor. Targeting angiogenesis is a therapeutic strategy used in the treatment of lung cancer to inhibit the formation of new blood vessels and limit tumor growth.
Asymptomatic: Asymptomatic refers to the absence of noticeable symptoms or signs of a disease or condition. In the context of lung cancer, it means that a person does not experience any symptoms associated with the disease.
Axillary node: Axillary nodes are lymph nodes located in the armpit region. They play a crucial role in filtering and trapping harmful substances, including cancer cells, that may have spread from the breast or other nearby areas.

B

Biomarker: A biomarker is a measurable substance or characteristic in the body that can indicate the presence or progression of a disease, such as lung cancer. Biomarkers can be found in blood, tissue, or other bodily fluids and are used in diagnosis, treatment selection, and monitoring of the disease.
Biopsy: A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue or cells is removed from the body for examination under a microscope. In the context of lung cancer, a biopsy is often performed to determine if abnormal cells in the lungs are cancerous and to identify the specific type of lung cancer.
Bispecific T-cell Engager: Bispecific T-cell Engager (BITE) technology is designed to overcome cancer cells' evasion of the immune system by engaging patients' own T-cells to directly target cancer cells. BITE molecules can be designed to engage the body’s immune system against specific targets found in some cancers. BITE technology is a novel approach that can be adapted against a range of targets.
Blood count: A blood count refers to the measurement of various components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It can provide valuable information about a person's overall health and help detect conditions such as anemia or infections, which are common in lung cancer patients.
BMI: BMI stands for Body Mass Index, which is a numerical value calculated based on a person's height and weight. It is used as a screening tool to assess whether an individual is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. BMI can be relevant in lung cancer as it can affect treatment options and overall health.
Bone metastases: Bone metastases occur when cancer cells from the lungs or other parts of the body spread to the bones. In the case of lung cancer, bone metastases can cause pain, fractures, and other complications. Treatment options may include radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or supportive care.
Brachytherapy: Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy in which a radioactive source is placed directly into or near the tumor. It is used to treat localized lung cancer by delivering a high dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
BRAF: BRAF is a gene mutation that can occur in certain types of lung cancer, such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Testing for BRAF mutations helps guide treatment decisions and identify targeted therapy options for patients with this specific mutation.
Bronchioles: Bronchioles are small air passages in the lungs that branch off from the bronchi. They play a crucial role in the transportation of air to and from the lungs, allowing for efficient oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide.
Bronchoscopy: Bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth and into the airways of the lungs. It allows for visual examination of the airways and collection of tissue samples for biopsy or other diagnostic tests.
Bronchus: A bronchus is a large airway in the lungs that branches off from the trachea (windpipe). The bronchi further divide into smaller bronchioles, which lead to the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs.

C

Capillaries: Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that connect the smallest arteries (arterioles) to the smallest veins (venules). They are responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs and removing waste products. In the context of lung cancer, capillaries play a role in supplying blood to cancerous tumors.
Carcinogen: A carcinogen is any substance or agent that has the potential to cause cancer. This can include chemicals, radiation, certain viruses, or other factors that can damage DNA and lead to the development of cancerous cells.
Carcinoid Tumor: A type of tumor that can occur in several parts of the body, including the lungs. They are generally slower growing than other types of lung cancers.
Carcinoma in situ: Carcinoma in situ refers to abnormal cells that are confined to the site where they first developed and have not invaded nearby tissues. It is considered the earliest stage of cancer and has not spread to other parts of the body. Detecting carcinoma in situ is important as it may progress to invasive cancer if left untreated.
Catheter: A catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the body to deliver fluids, medications, or other substances. In the context of lung cancer, a catheter may be used to drain fluid from the lungs or to administer treatments such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy.
CBD: CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant. While there is ongoing research into the potential benefits of CBD in managing symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments, its role in lung cancer treatment is still being explored.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment for cancer that uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing and dividing. It can be administered orally or intravenously and may be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy.
Circulating tumor cells (CTC): Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are cancer cells that have detached from the primary tumor and entered the bloodstream. They can travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body and potentially form new tumors, a process known as metastasis. CTCs can be detected and analyzed through a blood test, providing valuable information about the presence and characteristics of cancer cells in the body. This information can help guide treatment decisions and monitor the effectiveness of therapies.
Clinical trial: A clinical trial is a research study conducted with human volunteers to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new drugs, treatments, or interventions. In the context of lung cancer, clinical trials can provide access to innovative therapies and contribute to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. There are different stages of a clinical trial, each with a different purpose. Phase 0, Phase I, Phase II, Phase III, and Phase IV.
Combination therapy: Combination therapy refers to the use of two or more treatment modalities, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, to treat cancer. The goal is to maximize treatment effectiveness by targeting cancer cells through different mechanisms of action.
Complete blood count (CBC): A complete blood count is a blood test that measures the levels of different components in the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It provides valuable information about a person's overall health and can help detect abnormalities or monitor treatment effects.
Complete remission/complete response: Complete remission, also known as complete response, refers to the absence of detectable cancer cells or tumors after treatment. It indicates a successful response to treatment and is an important goal in cancer therapy.
Comprehensive cancer center: A comprehensive cancer center is a specialized medical facility that provides comprehensive care for cancer patients, including diagnosis, treatment, supportive care, and research. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams of healthcare professionals and offer a range of services and resources for patients and their families.
Computed tomography (CT) scan: A computed tomography scan, also known as a CT scan, is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It is commonly used in the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer, as it provides detailed information about the size, location, and extent of tumors.
Cytotoxic Drugs: These are cancer drugs that kill cells that are in the process of splitting into 2 new cells.

D

Diaphragm: The diaphragm is a thin muscle located below the lungs that plays a crucial role in the process of breathing. It contracts and relaxes to help draw air into the lungs during inhalation and push air out during exhalation.
DNA sequencing: DNA sequencing is a laboratory technique used to determine the precise order of nucleotides (building blocks) in a DNA molecule. In the context of lung cancer, DNA sequencing can be performed to identify specific genetic mutations or alterations that may be driving the development or progression of cancer.
Driver mutation: A driver mutation is a specific genetic alteration in a cell's DNA that plays a significant role in the development and progression of cancer. It is called a "driver" because it is responsible for initiating or promoting the growth of cancer cells.
Dyspnea: Dyspnea is the medical term for shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. It can be a symptom of lung cancer and may occur due to the presence of a tumor that obstructs the airways or affects lung function.

E

Edema: Edema refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues, leading to swelling. In the context of lung cancer, edema can occur as a result of the cancer itself or as a side effect of certain treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
EGFR: EGFR stands for epidermal growth factor receptor, which is a protein found on the surface of cells. Mutations in the EGFR gene can occur in certain types of lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Testing for EGFR mutations helps guide treatment decisions, as specific targeted therapies can be effective in treating lung cancer with EGFR mutations.
Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are a type of targeted therapy used in the treatment of lung cancer. They work by blocking the activity of the EGFR protein, which is often overactive in cancer cells with EGFR mutations. This can help inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Epiglottis: The epiglottis is a small flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue, just above the larynx (voice box). It helps prevent food and liquids from entering the airways during swallowing and directs them toward the esophagus.
Epithelium: Epithelium refers to the layer of cells that lines the surfaces of organs, including the lungs. It serves as a protective barrier and plays a role in various physiological functions, such as absorption, secretion, and gas exchange.
Erythema: Erythema is a medical term for redness or inflammation of the skin. It can occur as a side effect of certain cancer treatments, including radiation therapy or targeted therapy.
Erythrocyte: An erythrocyte, also known as a red blood cell, is a type of blood cell that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and removes carbon dioxide. These cells give blood its red color.
Erythropoietin: Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's oxygen-carrying capacity. Synthetic forms of erythropoietin can be used as a treatment for anemia in cancer patients.
Excision: Excision refers to the surgical removal or cutting out of a tumor or abnormal tissue. It is a common procedure in the treatment of lung cancer, particularly for localized tumors that have not spread to other parts of the body.
EXON 21 L858R: EXON 21 L858R is a specific mutation in the EGFR gene that can occur in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is one of the most common EGFR mutations and can be targeted with specific therapies known as EGFR inhibitors.
Expectorant: An expectorant is a medication or substance that helps loosen and expel mucus or phlegm from the respiratory tract. It can be used to relieve cough and congestion, which are common symptoms in lung cancer patients.

F

Fibre optic bronchoscopy: Fibre optic bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (bronchoscope) to examine the airways and lungs. It allows doctors to visually inspect the respiratory system, collect tissue samples for biopsy, and perform certain treatments.
Fine needle biopsy: A medical procedure where a thin needle is used to extract a small sample of tissue from the lung for examination and diagnosis.
Fraction: In the context of radiation therapy, a fraction refers to a single dose of radiation delivered over a course of treatment. Radiation treatment is typically divided into multiple fractions to minimize side effects and allow healthy tissues to recover between treatments.
Fractionation: Fractionation is the process of dividing a total radiation dose into smaller, equally-sized fractions that are delivered over a period of time. Fractionation is commonly used in radiation therapy to improve treatment outcomes

G

Genomic testing: The process of analyzing the genetic material (DNA) of a person's lung cancer cells to identify specific genetic mutations or alterations that may guide targeted treatment options.
Granulocyte: A type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system's defense against infections.
Granulocytopenia: A condition characterized by a lower than normal level of granulocytes in the blood, which can increase the risk of infections.

H

Hemoglobin: A protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues.
Hemoptysis: The medical term for coughing up blood, which can occur in people with lung cancer due to the presence of tumors or damage to the airways.
HER2: HER2, which stands for Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2, is a protein that can be overexpressed in certain types of lung cancer. HER2 overexpression can contribute to the growth and spread of cancer cells. HER2 mutations tend to be more common in adenocarcinoma non-small cell lung cancer patients with little to no smoking history.
HER3: HER3, or Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 3, is a protein that can be involved in the signaling pathways that promote cell growth and survival. HER3 is often overexpressed in lung cancer and can contribute to tumor growth. Targeted therapies that inhibit the effects of HER3 are being explored as potential treatments for lung cancer.
Hilum: The area in the center of the chest where the bronchi, blood vessels, and lymph nodes enter and exit the lungs.
Hospice: A specialized type of care focused on providing comfort, support, and pain management for individuals with advanced lung cancer or other terminal illnesses, typically in the final stages of life.

I

IGF-1R: IGF-1R, which stands for Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Receptor, is a protein that plays a role in regulating cell growth and survival. In lung cancer, dysregulation of IGF-1R signaling can contribute to tumor development and progression. Targeted therapies are being investigated to block the effects of IGF-1R in lung cancer treatment.
Immune response: The body's natural defense mechanism triggered by the immune system to fight against foreign substances, such as infections or cancer cells.
Immunocompromised: Having a weakened immune system, which can be caused by certain medical conditions or treatments, making individuals more susceptible to infections and other diseases.
Immunotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that helps your immune system fight cancer. It is a major area of oncology research and has led to many new treatments for lung cancer. Learn More.
In situ: Referring to cancer cells that are confined to their original location and have not spread to surrounding tissues or organs.
Infection: The invasion and multiplication of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, in the body, which can lead to illness or disease.
Informed consent: The process of providing detailed information about a medical procedure, treatment, or study to a patient, ensuring they understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives, and giving their voluntary agreement to proceed.
Intravenous: Referring to the administration of medications, fluids, or other substances directly into a vein using a needle or catheter.

K

KRAS: KRAS is a gene that plays a role in cell growth and division. Mutations in the KRAS gene are commonly found in lung cancer and can affect the effectiveness of certain treatments.

L

Large cell carcinoma: A type of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) characterized by large, abnormal-looking cancer cells that tend to grow and spread quickly. Large cell carcinoma begins in the cells that make up the outer lining of the lungs. Large cell carcinoma is the least common type of lung cancer, and it accounts for about 1 in 10 cases of all lung cancers.
Larynx: The organ located in the throat that contains the vocal cords and plays a key role in speech and breathing.
Lesion: An abnormal area of tissue, such as a tumor or wound, caused by injury, disease, or other factors.
Leukocyte: A type of white blood cell involved in the immune response and defense against infections.
Leukopenia: A condition characterized by a lower than normal level of white blood cells in the blood, which can increase the risk of infections.
Lobe: A distinct section or division of an organ, such as the lungs, with each lung consisting of multiple lobes.
Lobe: A distinct section or division of an organ, such as the lungs, with each lung consisting of multiple lobes.
Lobectomy: A surgical procedure to remove one or more lobes of the lung, often performed in the treatment of lung cancer.
Lung metastases: The spread of cancer cells from their original site to the lungs, typically originating from another primary cancer site.
Lungs: Lungs are a pair of organs located in the chest that are essential for the process of breathing. They are responsible for taking in oxygen from the air we inhale and removing carbon dioxide, a waste product, from our bodies through the process of respiration. Lungs are made up of millions of tiny air sacs called alveoli, where the exchange of gases between the air and the bloodstream takes place. They play a crucial role in supplying oxygen to the body's cells and removing waste gases, allowing us to breathe and sustain life.
Lymph nodes: Small, bean-shaped structures found throughout the body that are part of the lymphatic system, playing a role in filtering and trapping harmful substances, including cancer cells.

M

MED1: MED1, also known as Mediator Complex Subunit 1, is a protein involved in regulating gene expression. It plays a role in various cellular processes, including cell growth and differentiation. Dysregulation of MED1 has been implicated in lung cancer development and progression.
Mediastinoscopy: A surgical procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through a small incision in the chest to examine the mediastinum, the area between the lungs.
Mediastinum: The space in the chest between the lungs that contains the heart, major blood vessels, lymph nodes, and other structures.
Medical oncologist: A medical oncologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer using non-surgical methods, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They work closely with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized treatment plans for lung cancer patients, considering factors such as the stage and characteristics of the cancer.
MET: MET is a gene that can become altered in some lung cancers. It plays a role in cell growth and survival and can impact treatment options and prognosis.
Metastasis: The spread of cancer cells from the primary tumor to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Microbiome: The collection of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, that live in and on the human body. The microbiome can influence various aspects of health and disease.
Modality: In the context of lung cancer, modality refers to the different treatment approaches or techniques available, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
Monoclonal antibodies: Laboratory-produced antibodies that can specifically target certain proteins on cancer cells. Monoclonal antibodies are used in targeted therapies for lung cancer.
MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging): A medical imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body, providing valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Mucositis: Inflammation and irritation of the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract, commonly occurring as a side effect of certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Mucus: A sticky fluid secreted by the respiratory system that helps to trap dust, bacteria, and other particles, protecting the lungs.
Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence of a gene, which can occur spontaneously or be caused by various factors. Mutations can contribute to the development of cancer and affect its behavior and response to treatment.
Myelosuppression: A condition in which the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells is suppressed, leading to low levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Myelosuppression can occur as a side effect of certain cancer treatments.

N

Nausea: A feeling of discomfort or unease in the stomach that often precedes vomiting. Nausea can be a side effect of certain cancer treatments.
Needle aspiration biopsy: A medical procedure in which a thin needle is used to extract a sample of cells or fluid from a lung nodule or mass for further examination and diagnosis.
Neoadjuvant therapy: Treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, given before the main treatment, such as surgery, to shrink tumors or reduce the risk of cancer spreading.
Neuropathy: Nerve damage that can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands and feet, often occurring as a side effect of certain cancer treatments.
Neurotoxicity: Damage or toxicity to the nervous system, which can result in various neurological symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty with coordination. Neurotoxicity can occur as a side effect of certain cancer treatments.
Neutropenia: A condition characterized by a lower than normal level of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in fighting infections. Neutropenia can increase the risk of infections.
Neutrophil: The most common type of white blood cell that helps the body fight off infections by destroying bacteria and other harmful substances.
No Evidence of Disease (NED): A term used to describe the absence of detectable cancer based on imaging tests, physical examination, and other diagnostic methods. NED indicates that there are no signs of active cancer.
Nodule: A small abnormality or growth in the lung that can be detected on imaging tests. Lung nodules can be benign or malignant and may require further evaluation.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: The most common type of lung cancer, accounting for approximately 85% of all cases. Non-small cell lung cancer includes several subtypes, such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
NTRK: NTRK refers to a gene fusion involving the neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase genes. These fusions can occur in some lung cancers and can serve as targets for certain targeted therapies.

O

Oncologist: A medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. Oncologists play a crucial role in providing personalized care and treatment plans for individuals with lung cancer.
Oncology: The study of cancer. An oncologist is a doctor who treats cancer and provides medical care for a person diagnosed with cancer.

P

Palliative care: Specialized medical care focused on providing relief from symptoms, pain, and stress associated with serious illnesses like lung cancer. Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
Pathologic fracture: A fracture that occurs in a bone weakened by cancer, in this case, lung cancer. Pathologic fractures can cause pain, limited mobility, and other complications.
Pathologist: A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing diseases, including cancer, by examining cells, tissues, and organs under a microscope and performing laboratory tests.
Pathology: The branch of medicine that deals with the study of diseases and their causes, development, and effects. Pathology plays a crucial role in diagnosing and understanding lung cancer.
PD-L1: PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) is a protein found on the surface of some cancer cells, including lung cancer cells. PD-L1 can interact with immune cells and inhibit the immune response against cancer. Testing for PD-L1 expression can help guide treatment decisions.
Peripheral neuropathy: A condition characterized by damage to the peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hands and feet. Peripheral neuropathy can be a side effect of certain cancer treatments.
PET scan (positron emission tomography): A medical imaging technique that uses a radioactive tracer to create detailed images of the body's tissues and organs. PET scans can help detect and evaluate lung cancer and its spread to other areas.
Phase I clinical trial: The first stage of testing a new treatment or therapy in humans to evaluate its safety, dosage, and potential side effects. Phase I trials typically involve a small number of participants.
Phase II clinical trial: The second stage of testing a new treatment or therapy in humans to further evaluate its safety and effectiveness. Phase II trials involve a larger number of participants and focus on gathering more data.
Phase III clinical trial: The third stage of testing a new treatment or therapy in humans to compare its effectiveness to standard treatments. Phase III trials involve a large number of participants and are essential for determining whether a new treatment should be approved for widespread use.
Phase IV clinical trial: The fourth stage of testing a new treatment or therapy after it has been approved and is available for public use. Phase IV trials gather additional information about long-term safety and effectiveness.
PIK3CA: PIK3CA refers to a gene known as Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate 3-Kinase Catalytic Subunit Alpha. Mutations in the PIK3CA gene can occur in lung cancer and lead to the activation of a signaling pathway involved in cell growth and survival. Targeted therapies are being developed to block the effects of PIK3CA mutations in lung cancer treatment.
Plasma: The liquid component of blood that carries cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. Plasma plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including immunity and clotting.
Platelet: A small cell fragment found in the blood that helps with blood clotting, preventing excessive bleeding.
Platinum-based therapy: A type of chemotherapy treatment that includes platinum-based drugs, such as cisplatin or carboplatin. Platinum-based therapy is commonly used in the treatment of lung cancer.
Pleura: The thin, double-layered membrane that surrounds and protects the lungs. The pleura helps with the movement of the lungs during breathing.
Pleural cavity: The space between the two layers of the pleura that contains a small amount of fluid, allowing the lungs to move smoothly during breathing.
Pleural effusion: The buildup of excess fluid in the pleural cavity, often occurring as a result of lung cancer or other conditions. Pleural effusion can cause breathing difficulties and other symptoms.
Pneumonectomy: A surgical procedure to remove an entire lung affected by lung cancer. Pneumonectomy is typically performed when the cancer is limited to one lung and has not spread to other areas.
Port: A small medical device placed under the skin that provides access to a vein for the delivery of medications, fluids, or blood products. Ports are commonly used in cancer treatments to minimize the need for repeated needle sticks.
Pulmonary alveolus: The tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen enters the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is removed. Pulmonary alveoli are essential

R

Radiation Therapy: The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Regression: Regression refers to the shrinkage or disappearance of cancerous tumors in response to treatment.
Remission: Remission is a term used to describe a period when the signs and symptoms of cancer are reduced or completely disappear. It indicates that the cancer is responding well to treatment.
RET: RET stands for Rearranged During Transfection. It is a genetic alteration that can occur in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is targeted by certain treatments. It involves a rearrangement of the RET gene, leading to the production of a mutated protein that can drive the growth of cancer cells.
ROS1: ROS1 is a genetic alteration that can occur in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is a targetable mutation that can be treated with specific targeted therapies.

S

Screening: A preventive medical procedure that involves testing seemingly healthy individuals for a specific disease or condition before symptoms appear, with the goal of detecting the disease early and improving treatment outcomes.
Sleeve resection: Sleeve resection is a surgical procedure used to remove a portion of the lung affected by cancer while preserving as much healthy lung tissue as possible.
Small Cell Lung Cancer: Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) is a type of lung cancer that typically grows and spreads quickly. It is often associated with smoking and is treated differently from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Sputum cytology: Sputum cytology is a diagnostic test that involves examining a sample of mucus coughed up from the lungs to look for cancer cells or other abnormalities.
Squamous/Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that typically develops in the cells lining the airways of the lungs. It is often associated with smoking.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery/Stereotactic radiotherapy: Stereotactic radiosurgery or stereotactic radiotherapy is a non-invasive treatment approach that uses highly focused radiation beams to precisely target and destroy cancer cells in the lungs, while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
STK11: STK11 is a mutation in the STK11 protein and is one biomarker that physicians look for in non-small cell lung cancer. STK11 was first discovered in 1996. Everyone has two STK11 genes (one from their mother and one from their father). If one of the genes is not working, this is known as having a faulty STK11 gene or having an STK11 mutation.

T

Targeted Therapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, usually while doing little damage to normal cells.
Telehealth/Telemedicine: Telehealth or telemedicine refers to the use of technology, such as video calls or phone consultations, to provide healthcare services remotely. It allows patients to receive medical care and consultations without needing to visit a healthcare facility in person.
Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure that involves the removal of fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall, known as the pleural space. It is done to relieve symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, caused by the accumulation of excess fluid.
Thoracic oncologist: A thoracic oncologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers that occur in the chest area, including lung cancer. They have expertise in managing and coordinating the care of patients with thoracic malignancies, working closely with other members of the healthcare team to develop personalized treatment plans.
Thoracic surgeon: A thoracic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in surgical procedures involving the chest, including the lungs. They are trained to perform surgeries to diagnose, stage, and treat lung cancer, such as lung resections or removal of tumors. Thoracic surgeons work closely with other specialists to provide comprehensive care for lung cancer patients.
Thoracoscopy: Thoracoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (called a thoracoscope) to examine the inside of the chest cavity. It can also be used to take tissue samples or perform certain treatments.
Thoracotomy: Thoracotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the chest wall to access the lungs or other structures within the chest. It is typically performed for more invasive procedures, such as lung cancer surgery.
Trachea: The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a tube-like structure that connects the throat to the lungs. It allows air to pass in and out of the lungs during breathing.
Tumor: A tumor refers to an abnormal growth of cells. In the context of lung cancer, it refers to the mass or abnormal tissue that develops in the lungs.

V

Vaccine therapy: Vaccine therapy, also known as immunotherapy, is a treatment approach that uses vaccines or other substances to stimulate the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. It is a targeted therapy used in the treatment of lung cancer.
VEGFR2: VEGFR2, or Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2, is a protein found on the surface of cells that line blood vessels. It plays a critical role in angiogenesis, the process of forming new blood vessels. In lung cancer, targeting VEGFR2 with specific inhibitors can help disrupt the blood supply to tumors, inhibiting their growth and spread.
Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS): Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses small incisions and a tiny camera to perform procedures within the chest cavity. It can be used for lung cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment.

W

Wedge resection: Wedge resection is a surgical procedure that involves removing a small, wedge-shaped portion of the lung that contains a tumor or abnormal tissue. It is a type of lung cancer surgery used for early-stage tumors.

X

X-ray: An X-ray is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses low levels of radiation to create images of the internal structures of the body, including the lungs. It is commonly used to detect and diagnose lung cancer.

Y

Young Investigator: A LCFA Young Investigator is an early-career scientist who receives funding and support from the Lung Cancer Foundation of America (LCFA) to conduct innovative research focused on lung cancer. These individuals, typically within the first five years of their faculty appointment or research career, are selected through a competitive application process and awarded grants to pursue their research projects. Alongside financial support, they benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities provided by LCFA. By investing in young investigators, LCFA aims to cultivate the next generation of lung cancer researchers, accelerate scientific discovery, and improve outcomes for patients.