Poorly differentiated -When observed under the microscope, a poorly differentiated tumor has little or only a slight resemblance to the normal tissue from the same organ. Primary tumor -The place where a cancer first starts to grow. Even if it spreads elsewhere, the cancer is still known by the place of origin. For example, breast cancer that has spread to the bone is still breast cancer, not bone cancer. Remission -The partial or complete shrinkage of cancer, usually occurring as the result of therapy.
Remission is also the period when the disease is under control.
A remission is not necessarily a cure. Staging -An organized process of determining how far a cancer has spread. Staging involves a physical exam, blood tests, X-rays, scans and sometimes surgery. Knowing the stage helps determine the most appropriate treatment and the prognosis. Thoracic -Pertaining to the thorax, or chest.