A carcinoma is cancer that originates in the epithelial tissue. Let's break down this definition:
Understanding Carcinoma
Carcinomas are the most common type of cancer. To understand them fully, we need to understand epithelial tissue.
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Epithelial Tissue: This tissue type lines most of your organs, the internal passageways within your body, and your skin. Think of it as a protective covering for many parts of your body.
- Examples include the lining of your esophagus, the surface of your skin, and the lining of your lungs.
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Carcinoma Development: When cells in this epithelial tissue become cancerous, they can grow uncontrollably and form a tumor, leading to carcinoma.
Types of Carcinomas
Because epithelial tissue is so widespread, carcinomas can occur in many parts of the body. Here are a few examples:
- Skin cancer
- Breast cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Lung cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancers
Carcinoma - Key Takeaways
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Cancer that begins in epithelial tissue. |
| Epithelial Tissue | Tissue lining organs, internal passageways, and skin. |
| Common Cancers | Skin, breast, kidney, liver, lungs, pancreas, prostate, head, and neck cancers are often carcinomas. |
