Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
adenocarcinoma
Pronunciation: ad-uh-noh-kar-suh-NOH-muh
The most common type of gastrointestinal cancer arising from glandular epithelial cells.
Full Definition
Adenocarcinoma represents approximately 95% of colorectal cancers and the majority of gastric and pancreatic malignancies. In editorial contexts, this term requires careful distinction from other histological subtypes such as squamous cell carcinoma or neuroendocrine tumors. The term is often modified by anatomical location (gastric adenocarcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma) in clinical documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify anatomical location when possible; avoid using as a standalone term without context.
In Context
- "The biopsy confirmed invasive adenocarcinoma with moderately differentiated features." — Pathology report
- "Pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains one of the most challenging malignancies to treat." — Clinical review article
Also known as
glandular carcinoma
Contrasted with
squamous cell carcinoma
sarcoma
Don't confuse with
adenoma
adenomatous polyp