Karsinooman

Karsinooman is a term used in some languages to denote carcinoma, a malignant epithelial tumor arising from the cells lining organs or skin. Carcinomas account for the majority of cancer cases and can arise in many sites, including the lungs, breast, colon, and pancreas. They are broadly classified into squamous cell carcinomas, which originate from squamous epithelium; adenocarcinomas, which form gland-like structures; and other subtypes such as small cell and neuroendocrine carcinomas. The distinction is important for prognosis and treatment.

Pathophysiology: Carcinomas develop through genetic and epigenetic alterations that drive uncontrolled proliferation, resistance to cell death, invasion, and eventually metastasis. Risk factors include tobacco use, chronic infections such as HPV, alcohol, obesity, environmental carcinogens, radiation, and familial predispositions. The tumor microenvironment and angiogenesis facilitate growth and spread.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies (X-ray, CT, MRI, PET) to assess extent, followed by tissue biopsy for histopathology and immunohistochemistry to determine subtype and origin. Staging uses the TNM system.

Treatment depends on cancer type and stage. Localized disease may be managed with surgery and/or radiation therapy. Regional or advanced disease commonly requires systemic therapies such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies against driver mutations or receptors, and immunotherapy.

Prognosis varies widely by site and stage; early-stage carcinomas detected before spread have better outcomes.

Epidemiology notes: Carcinomas remain the most common form of cancer globally, with substantial variation by organ site and population.