We explain everything about carcinoma and what is its relationship with cancer.
Depending on the area in which the tumors occur, as well as the particular characteristics of each case, we will find different types of cancer that will evolve in different ways.
Due to the inherent complexity of classifying cancer varieties in a useful way that encompasses different features, there is some confusion about the terms used to describe different types of cancer . In this article we will explain the differences between cancer and carcinomas, a particular type of cancer, as well as explain the common characteristics and types of carcinomas.
- If you want to know more about cancer: “The 7 differences between a benign and a malignant tumor”
What is cancer?
Cancer is a term used to describe a disease caused by abnormal growths of mutated cells, which we know as tumors. These tumors are usually mostly solid, but cancers of the blood, such as leukemia, have liquid tumors.
The causes and consequences of each type of cancer will vary according to various factors , such as the environmental and genetic characteristics of the affected person (such as being a carrier of a mutant gene that favors certain types of cancer, or being a smoker), as well as the type of cells that mutate and where the neoplasm or tumor is located.
The classification of the different types of cancer makes it easier for us to identify and treat them, but at the same time it is difficult to make classifications of cancer types that encompass all the possible differences between them in an adequate way. Because of this, there are many classifications and types of cancer, which can be confusing to the general public.
What is a carcinoma and how is it different from cancer?
Carcinomas are a family of cancers that affect epithelial cells . Epithelial cells are those that cover the surfaces of our body, forming epithelial tissue. There are mainly three types of epithelial cells according to their morphology:
- Flat epithelial cells, also called squamous
- cuboidal epithelial cells
- Columnar epithelial cells, also called columnar
Epithelia can also be grouped in different ways depending on the number of cells they present in their structure. If they only have one layer, they are called simple epithelia. If they have more layers, placed one on top of the other, they are called stratified epithelia.
Epithelial cells are found in the skin, but we can also see them lining the lungs, the heart, the blood and lymphatic vessels, the bladder, the uterus, covering glandular secretion ducts… Far from being found only in the skin, epithelial cells They are present in many structures of the body , especially those that need protection or insulation.
Their more external position than that of other tissues means that the epithelia are, in general, in contact with the outside of the body, where they can easily interact with carcinogenic factors , such as tobacco smoke, pollution or ultraviolet rays. This is probably one of the reasons that carcinomas are the most diagnosed type of cancer.
Once we know what a carcinoma is, the differences from cancer become apparent: A carcinoma is simply a classification of cancer .
- It might interest you: “Chronic leukemia: what it is, causes, symptoms and treatment”
Most common types of carcinoma
Carcinomas can appear anywhere in the body that has epithelial tissue . To better understand this disease, we discuss below the most common types of carcinoma.
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinomas are cancers that originate in the basal lamina, which can be found under the epidermis. It is the most common form of skin cancer and is strongly linked to sun exposure , affecting more those with pale skin or who are more sensitive to sunlight.
They usually appear in areas of the body that are usually exposed to the sun , such as the face, ears, shoulders, neck… As we suffer from sunburns, our risk of developing basal cell carcinoma increases. Therefore, people who work outdoors are more likely to develop this type of cancer.
Its prognosis, if detected early, is very good. Recovery rates for this type of cancer are practically 100% if the tumor has been detected before it progresses to more dangerous stages. To avoid this cancer, it is best to avoid unprotected and constant sun exposure. You have to use sunscreen!
2. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
This type of carcinoma normally affects the squamous cells of the skin, those that are found in the upper layer of the epidermis. When this type of carcinoma develops, it appears as scaly red spots, small open wounds, warts, or elevations with a central depression, like a small volcano.
This type of cancer can disfigure or kill us if not treated early . Like basal cell cancer, your risk is increased by exposure to ultraviolet rays, such as those found in sunlight or tanning beds. In fact, tanning beds seem to be one of the factors that increase the incidence of this type of cancer.
To detect these types of cancer early, we must periodically check our skin, with the help of a close person or a mirror. If we have a type of skin prone to burns, we must avoid direct sun exposure whenever possible . Those blonde or light-eyed people are at a higher risk of suffering from this disease.
3. Ductal carcinoma in situ
This type of carcinoma is also known as intraductal cancer or stage zero breast cancer. It represents 1 out of every 5 cases of breast cancer and affects the ducts that connect the mammary glands, where milk is produced, with the outside world.
Fortunately, this type of carcinoma is “ in situ ”. This means that it has not moved from its original place . If it is not detected in time, it could evolve into an invasive carcinoma, capable of colonizing nearby tissues or even, over time, producing metastases. There is also a 30% chance of reappearance of this type of carcinoma, usually between 5 and 10 years after its initial diagnosis.
Unfortunately, episodes of recurrence of this type of carcinoma have a 50% chance of being invasive carcinomas. This means that, if a new tumor appears, it is just as likely to be a ductal carcinoma in situ, which will not move from the site, at least initially, as the tumor that appears is an invasive tumor, capable of spreading to other places in our body.
4. Renal cell carcinoma
This type of carcinoma occurs in the small kidney tubules and is the most common type of kidney cancer . They usually only develop in one of the two kidneys. Over time, this tumor can grow and cause blockages and kidney problems. The most common treatment is removal of the affected kidney.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of this type of cancer usually appear once the disease is advanced, making it difficult to treat and reducing the chances of surviving it. Hematuria -urinating blood- is a common symptom of this type of cancer , so we should take episodes of hematuria seriously if they occur, and see a doctor as soon as possible.
conclusion
Carcinomas are a family of cancers that affect epithelial tissue. It is a common type of cancer and many of them are linked to the exposure of toxic agents by patients . Sunlight, air pollution or toxic substances can accelerate the appearance and evolution of carcinomas.
Cancer is a very complex disease, which encompasses different pathologies. As with people, two cancers can look a lot alike, but they are unlikely to be exactly the same, due to the genetic component of this disease. Still, being informed about these diseases and seeing a doctor when symptoms are detected is the best way to prevent serious cases of uncontrolled cancer.
Bibliographic references
- What is cancer? Retrieved 06/20/2019 from www.cancer.gov
- Berman, Jules J. (2004) “Tumor Classification: Molecular Analysis Meets Aristotle.” BMC Cancer 4.
To the classic question “what do you do?” I always answer “basically I am a psychologist”. In fact, my academic training has revolved around the psychology of development, education and community, a field of study influenced my volunteer activities, as well as my first work experiences in personal services.
