Dictionary

EEGFR An acronym for epidermal growth factor receptor, aprotein found on the surface of some cells and to whichepidermal growth factor binds, causing the cells to divide. It isfound at abnormally high levels on the surface of many types ofcancer cells, so these cells may divide excessively in thepresence of epidermal growth factor. Also called epidermalgrowth factor receptor, ErbB1, and HER1.eloquent [elo kwent] Refers to sections of the brain that controlvital functions such as speech, motor functions, and vision.Tumors in the “eloquent areas” of the brain have higher risks,and may require mapping procedures.embolization [em bol ih zay´ shun] Used to reduce the amountof blood supply to a tumor, it involves blocking the flow ofblood in selected arteries.embryonal carcinoma [em bree on’ al • kar sih no’ ma] A germcell tumor. Germ cell tumors begin in the cells that give rise tosperm or eggs. They can occur anywhere in the body. Germ celltumors of the brain most commonly occur in the pineal orsuprasellar regions.embryonic [em bree on´ ik] Undeveloped, related to the embryo.emesis [em´ ih sis] Vomiting.encapsulated [en kap´ sue lay ted] Refers to a tumor that iswholly confined to a specific area, surrounded by a capsule.Localized.encephalopathy [n seff ah lopp´ ah thee] A loss of function intissue of the brain; can be due to a wide variety of causes.See leukoencephalopathy.endocrine dysfunction [en´ doe krin] With brain tumors, canrefer to an increase, decrease or absence of hormoneproduction by the pituitary gland. Symptoms depend on whichhormone is affected and whether it is increased or decreased.endocrine system [en´ doe krin] The tissues or glands in thebody that secrete hormones into the circulatory system.40endocrine therapy [en´ doe krin] Treatment by removing,blocking or adding hormones. Also called hormone therapy.endocrinologist A physician trained in diagnosing and treatingdisorders of hormone-secreting (endocrine) organs. Theseorgans include the thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal glands, thepituitary, the pineal body and the gonads.endoscopy [en dos´ ko pee] A procedure using an endoscope.An endoscope is a long, narrow, flexible tube that provides thesurgeon with light and visual access as it is inserted anddirected to the target area. The neuro-endoscope is particularlyuseful for surgery involving a ventricle: to correct amalfunctioning shunt; to remove scar tissue blocking a shunt;or to remove intraventricular tumors. It is also useful duringcyst removal.enhancement Use of a dye that makes abnormal tissue moreobvious during CT or MRI scans.enteral [en´ tur al] Something which enters the body by way ofthe intestines such as by eating or drinking. When referring tomedication, it is the opposite of parenteral, something thatbypasses the intestines, e.g., medicine given through a vein.entry criteria The conditions which must be met for a patient toenroll in a clinical trial. Usually includes the specific types oftumor, previous treatment allowable, age range and overallhealth requirements.enzyme [en´ zime] A protein substance, secreted by certaincells, that stimulates chemical changes in the body withoutitself being changed. For example, the enzymes produced inthe mouth and stomach are crucial for digestion.EORTC European Organization for Research and Treatment ofCancer. A network of scientists and oncologists in the maincancer research institutions of the EU countries. They conductclinical trials throughout Europe.E41