Glossary

Abnormal cells that show irregularities in their size, shape, or organization compared to normal cells. These changes can indicate a variety of conditions, ranging from benign (non-cancerous) conditions to pre-cancerous changes or cancer itself. Atypical cells may be detected, and their presence often requires further investigation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management.

A condition, tumor, or growth that is non-cancerous and does not invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Biological molecules found in blood, tissues, or other fluids that signal a disease condition. Some cancer tests rely on biomarkers, though Cancer Check tests focus on detecting whole tumor cells.

A formal medical document prepared by a pathologist who has received certification from a recognized medical board, such as the American Board of Pathology (ABP). This certification indicates that the pathologist has undergone specialized training and passed rigorous exams to demonstrate expertise in their field. The report provides a detailed analysis of tissue, blood, or other samples, offering critical information on the diagnosis, including whether a tumor is benign or malignant, its type, and its stage. It includes findings from microscopic examination, molecular tests, and other diagnostic evaluations.

Forms in the tissues of the breast, commonly in the ducts or lobules.

Regulations governing laboratory testing on human specimens. Cancer Check Labs is CLIA-certified, ensuring lab quality and compliance with federal standards.

Tumor cells that have shed from a primary tumor into the bloodstream. Cancer Check tests identify these cells as an early detection method for cancer.

Refers to fragments of DNA that are released into the bloodstream by cancer cells as they die and break apart. ctDNA levels are often very low in early-stage cancers or small tumors, making it difficult to detect the DNA fragments in the bloodstream. This can result in false negatives, where the test fails to detect cancer, especially when it is most treatable. ctDNA testing can sometimes pick up DNA from benign conditions or non-cancerous cell mutations, particularly in aging individuals. This may lead to a false positive, where cancer is suggested but not actually present. This is one of the main differentiators between Cancer Check and other blood tests. We capture the whole tumor cell and not unreliable bits and pieces of ctDNA.

Includes cancers that form in the colon or rectum, often detected through colonoscopy screenings.

Identifying cancer at an initial stage when it is typically more treatable and has a higher chance of successful management. This process often involves screening tests aimed at finding cancer before symptoms appear. The goal is to detect cancer when it is localized and smaller, which can improve treatment outcomes and increase survival rates.

The FDA's approval process for medical devices and tests. Cancer Check notes that their test is not yet FDA-cleared but adheres to other regulatory standards.

In medical tests, a false positive means the test indicates cancer when there isn’t any, and a false negative means cancer is present but not detected by the test.

Refers to the likelihood of developing cancer due to inherited mutations in specific genes passed down from parents. Certain mutations increase susceptibility to cancer because they disrupt normal cell functions such as DNA repair or cell growth control. These mutations are present in every cell of the body and can be inherited from either parent, making some individuals more prone to developing cancer than others.

Divided into two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Both start in the lung but differ in cellular structure and behavior.

A condition, usually a tumor, that is cancerous and has the ability to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body (a process called metastasis). Malignant cells divide uncontrollably, and unlike benign tumors, they do not remain localized. They can spread through the blood or lymphatic system to distant organs, making malignant tumors life-threatening if not treated.

A test designed to detect over 200 types of cancer from a simple blood sample. This broad-spectrum test helps screen for solid tumors before they become large enough for imaging detection.

A medical test or procedure that does not involve entering the body or removing tissue. The Cancer Check test is considered non-invasive as it only requires a blood sample.

A medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis of diseases by examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids. They play a critical role in cancer diagnosis by analyzing biopsies and determining the type and stage of cancer.

A healthcare professional trained to draw blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, research, or blood donations. They are skilled in venipuncture (the process of puncturing a vein), ensuring safe and accurate blood collection. Phlebotomists also manage the proper labeling and handling of blood samples to ensure their integrity for lab analysis.

The process of drawing blood for medical testing. Cancer Check tests require a blood sample to detect circulating tumor cells.

Begins in the prostate gland and is one of the most common cancers in men.

The process by which cancer cells detach from the primary tumor and enter the bloodstream or surrounding tissues. This can occur as part of tumor growth and progression, allowing cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. Shedding can result in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the blood, which can be detected through specific tests and may serve as a marker for the presence of cancer and its potential spread. The ability to shed cells can contribute to the aggressiveness of certain tumors and impact treatment strategies.

An abnormal mass of tissue that forms when cells grow uncontrollably and do not die when they should. Unlike liquid cancers, such as leukemia, which affect the blood and bone marrow, solid tumors occur in various tissues or organs in the body. Solid tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

The process by which cancer spreads from its primary site to other parts of the body. Detecting CTCs can indicate early metastasis.