Mucinous carcinoma
Encyclopedia
Mucinous carcinoma is a type of cancer
that begins in cells that line certain internal organs and skin, and produce mucin
(the main component of mucus
).
When found within the skin, mucinous carcinoma is commonly a round, elevated, reddish, and sometimes ulcerated mass, usually located on the head and neck.
Cancer
Cancer , known medically as a malignant neoplasm, is a large group of different diseases, all involving unregulated cell growth. In cancer, cells divide and grow uncontrollably, forming malignant tumors, and invade nearby parts of the body. The cancer may also spread to more distant parts of the...
that begins in cells that line certain internal organs and skin, and produce mucin
Mucin
Mucins are a family of high molecular weight, heavily glycosylated proteins produced by epithelial tissues in most metazoans. Mucins' key characteristic is their ability to form gels; therefore they are a key component in most gel-like secretions, serving functions from lubrication to cell...
(the main component of mucus
Mucus
In vertebrates, mucus is a slippery secretion produced by, and covering, mucous membranes. Mucous fluid is typically produced from mucous cells found in mucous glands. Mucous cells secrete products that are rich in glycoproteins and water. Mucous fluid may also originate from mixed glands, which...
).
When found within the skin, mucinous carcinoma is commonly a round, elevated, reddish, and sometimes ulcerated mass, usually located on the head and neck.
See also
- Eccrine carcinomaEccrine carcinomaEccrine carcinoma is a rare cutaneous condition characterized by a plaque or nodule on the scalp, trunk, or extremities....
- Microcystic adnexal carcinomaMicrocystic adnexal carcinomaMicrocystic adnexal carcinoma is a cutaneous condition characterized by a slow-growing plaque or nodule....
- Primary cutaneous adenoid cystic carcinomaPrimary cutaneous adenoid cystic carcinomaPrimary cutaneous adenoid cystic carcinoma is a cutaneous condition characterized by a tumor that usually presents on the chest, scalp, or vulva of middle- to older-aged persons....
- List of cutaneous conditions
External links
- Mucinous carcinoma entry in the public domain NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms