Cancer Screening Glossary

Simultaneous use of both cytology and HPV testing for cervical cancer screening in eligible age groups.

Endoscopic examination of the large intestine using a flexible tube with a camera to screen for colorectal cancer.

A diagnostic procedure using a magnifying instrument to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for abnormal areas.

Minimally invasive tissue sampling procedure using a large-gauge needle to obtain tissue cores for histologic diagnosis...

Microscopic examination of individual cells to detect abnormal cellular changes indicative of cancer or precancer.

Ductal carcinoma in situ; abnormal cells confined to breast milk ducts without invasion into surrounding tissue.

The series of examinations and tests performed to evaluate abnormal screening findings and establish a definitive diagno...

Three-dimensional mammography technique that creates multiple thin-slice images of the breast to improve cancer detectio...

A breast imaging technique using digital detectors instead of film to capture and store mammographic images.

Quality assurance practice where two radiologists independently interpret the same screening mammogram to improve cancer...

Advanced endoscopic technique for removing large flat or sessile colorectal polyps that cannot be safely excised by stan...

Screening test result that incorrectly indicates cancer presence when no cancer exists.

Colorectal cancer screening test that detects human hemoglobin in stool samples using antibody-based technology.

Fecal immunochemical test; a stool-based screening method for colorectal cancer that detects hidden blood.

Non-invasive screening test that detects hidden blood in stool samples as an indicator of colorectal cancer.

Systematic approach for rating the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations in clinical practice guidelines.

Healthcare quality measurement tool that includes cancer screening performance indicators used by health plans and provi...

A breast tissue composition category indicating scattered fibroglandular densities that may obscure small masses on mamm...

Bethesda System category indicating moderate to severe cervical dysplasia with significant potential for progression to...

Molecular test that detects high-risk human papillomavirus strains associated with cervical cancer development.

Cytological finding indicating significant cervical cellular abnormalities with higher risk of progression to cancer if...

A minimally invasive procedure using imaging guidance to obtain tissue samples from suspicious lesions identified during...

An unexpected finding discovered during imaging performed for unrelated reasons, requiring clinical evaluation.

A cancer diagnosed between regular screening rounds, suggesting either rapid growth or screening failure.