Letter M

Malignant tumour A tumour made up of cancer cells.

Mammogram (Mammography) A low-dose x-ray that forms a picture of the breasts to detect any abnormal growths or cysts.

Mastectomy The surgical removal of the breast.

Mastectomy – Double Removal of both breasts.

Mastectomy – Preventative Removal of breast or breasts before cancer is detected.

Mastectomy - Segmental (lumpectomy) Removal of the lump and a portion of surrounding breast tissue.

Mastectomy - Simple (modified mastectomy) Removal of the entire breast.

Mastectomy - Radical Removal of the entire breast along with underlying muscle and lymph nodes of the armpit.

Melanoma A cancer of the pigment-forming cells of the skin or the retina of the eye.

Mesothelioma Cancer of the mesothelium.

Mesothelium The thin membrane that lines the chest and abdomen.

Metastasis A new tumour that has spread from the original tumour site (also known as secondary).

Monocyte A type of white blood cell that protects the body against germs. After about a day in the bloodstream, they enter tissues to become macrophages, which can destroy some germs by surrounding and digesting them.

Monoclonal antibodies Artificially manufactured antibodies specifically designed to find targets on cancer cells for diagnostic or treatment purposes.

MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) A test that uses magnetic x-rays to form a cross sectional picture of organs and structures inside the body.

Mucosa (Mucous membranes) The lining of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.

Mucositis Inflammation of the lining of the mouth or gastrointestinal tract.

Myelogram An x-ray procedure where a dye is injected into the spinal column to show the spinal cord.

Myeloma A cancerous tumour of the bone marrow associated with the production of abnormal proteins.

Myelosuppression A decrease in the production of red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells by the bone marrow.

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