Mesothelioma Glossary M
Click on the letters below for an explanation of the glossary terms for each letter.
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Macrophages - scavenger cells that keep the lung's air sacs clean
Malignancy - a tumor that is cancerous that can invade and destroy nearby tissue and that may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body
Malignant - having the properties of a malignancy that can invade and destroy nearby tissue and that may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body
Malignant Mesothelioma - a very rare form of cancer linked to asbestos exposure that occurs in the sac lining of the chest (pleural mesothelioma) or abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the lining of the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). It is a malignant tumor of the mesothelium (the thin lining on the surface of the body cavities and the organs that are contained within them).
Mediastinoscopy - a very small incision is made just above the sternum (breast bone), and a tube is inserted just behind the breast bone to examine the lymph nodes. This helps to determine if the cancer has spread from its point of origin.
Mediastinum - the mass of organs and tissue in the middle of the chest, separating the lungs, containing the heart, esophagus, and other vital structures
Mesothelioma - A benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumor affecting the lining of the chest or abdomen. Exposure to asbestos particles in the air increases the risk of developing malignant mesothelioma. The only known cause of this disease is asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma tissue - consists of a single layer of flat cells lining the surface of serous membranes in the lungs and abdomen. Respiration of these cells is impaired by scar tissue (fibrosis).
Mesothelium - thin membrane that covers the body's organs and lines internal cavities. It produces a lubricating fluid that helps organs by enabling them to move. It is called the pleura in relation to the lungs, the peritoneum in the abdomen, and the pericardium in relation to the heart.
Metastasis - the spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. The cancer resulting from the spread of the primary tumor. The metastases are termed secondary tumors.
Mixed type mesothelioma - cancer involving the epithelial and mesenchymal cells of the mesothelium
Morphology - the science of form and structure without regard to function
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan - a diagnostic procedure that uses a magnetic field to provide three-dimensional images of internal body structures. It is a sensitive, non-invasive method for viewing soft tissues of the body using a strong magnetic field. It uses magnetism, radio waves, and a computer to create an image of the lungs or other body parts. A MRI scan does not use X-ray radiation.
Mucous carpet - the lining of the bronchial portion of the lungs. Its cells secrete mucus, which is swept through by cilia, removing the majority of inhaled particles. This material is then swallowed or spit out.
MVV (maximal voluntary ventilation) - a measurement of lung function
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