Adenocarcinoma

Definition

A form of carcinoma that originates in glandular tissue. To be classified as adenocarcinoma, the cells do not necessarily need to be part of a gland, as long as they have secretory properties. This form of carcinoma can occur in some higher mammals, including humans. The term adenocarcinoma is derived from “adeno” meaning “pertaining to a gland” and “carcinoma” which describes a cancer that has developed in the epithelial cells, i.e., cells that line the walls of various organs. This type accounts for about 40 % of lung cancer. It is usually found in the outer part of the lung. The cancer cells are arranged in the gland-like structure. Morphologically, adenocarcinomas are classified according to the growth pattern (e.g., papillary, tubular, alveolar) or according to the secreting product (e.g., mucinous, serous). Virtually all adenocarcinomas develop from adenoma. In general, the bigger the adenoma, the more likely it is to become malignant. For example, in colorectal cancer...