Glossary of Medical Terms

A type of radiation therapy that uses a machine to aim high-energy rays at the cancer from outside of the body. Also called external radiation therapy.

A large network of proteins and other molecules that surround, support, and give structure to cells and tissues in the body. The extracellular matrix helps cells attach to, and communicate with, nearby cells, and plays an important role in cell growth, cell movement, and other cell functions. The extracellular matrix is also involved in repairing damaged tissue. Abnormal changes in the extracellular matrix may lead to the development of certain diseases, such as cancer. The extracellular matrix of cancer cells can affect how they grow and spread. Also called ECM.

A procedure in which blood is removed from the body and treated with ultraviolet light and drugs that become active when exposed to light. The blood is then returned to the body. It is being studied in the treatment of some blood and bone marrow diseases and graft-vs-host disease (GVHD). Also called photopheresis.

Outside of the cranium (bones that surround the brain).

A type of tumor that begins in germ cells (cells that form sperm or eggs) that are found in areas of the body other than the brain. These areas include the ovary, testicle, chest, abdomen, and tailbone. Extracranial germ cell tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Extracranial germ cell tumors are most common in children and teenagers and can usually be cured.

In medicine, a preparation of a substance obtained from plants, animals, or bacteria and used as a drug or in drugs.

An area of the body other than the ovaries or testes.

A rare type of tumor that begins in germ cells (cells that form sperm or eggs) found in areas of the body other than the testicle, ovary, or brain. Most extragonadal extracranial germ cell tumors form either in the sacrum (the large, triangle-shaped bone in the lower spine that forms part of the pelvis) and tailbone, or in the chest area and back of the abdomen. They may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer) and occur most often in children and young adults.

A rare cancer that develops in germ cells that are found in areas of the body other than the ovary or testicle (such as the brain, chest, abdomen, or tailbone). Germ cells are reproductive cells that develop into sperm in males and eggs in females.

Located or occurring outside the liver.