Krebsformen

Krebsformen is a German term used to denote the various forms of cancer, i.e., malignant neoplasms, as distinguished from benign tumors. In clinical use, the phrase covers diseases arising from uncontrolled cell growth that can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant sites. The term encompasses a wide range of entities with different origins, behaviors, and treatment approaches.

Classification. Cancers are commonly grouped by their tissue of origin. Carcinomas arise from epithelial cells and are the most common in adults (for example breast, lung, and colorectal cancers). Sarcomas originate in connective tissues such as bone, muscle, or fat. Leukemias involve blood-forming cells and accumulate in blood or bone marrow. Lymphomas arise from lymphatic tissue. Melanomas develop from melanocytes in the skin. Central nervous system tumors, such as gliomas, originate in the brain or spinal cord. Germ cell tumors arise from reproductive cells. Many cancers are further subdivided by molecular markers that influence treatment choices.

Diagnosis and staging. Diagnosis relies on tissue sampling (biopsy) and histopathology, supplemented by imaging (CT, MRI, PET) and laboratory markers. Staging typically uses the TNM system, describing tumor size (T), regional lymph node involvement (N), and distant metastasis (M). This information guides prognosis and treatment planning.

Treatment and prognosis. Management is individualized and often multidisciplinary, combining surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and increasingly targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Early-stage cancers have higher cure rates, while advanced cancers may focus on symptom control and extending survival. Prognosis depends on cancer type, stage, molecular characteristics, patient health, and treatment response.

Prevention and risk factors. Modifiable risks include tobacco use, excessive alcohol, obesity, physical inactivity, and certain infections (for example HPV, hepatitis). Environmental exposures and genetics also contribute. Screening programs aim to detect several common cancers at an earlier, more treatable stage.