Definition

1. Noun:
   • A cell that is part of a tumor: A "neoplastic cell" is an abnormal cell that divides and reproduces uncontrollably, forming the basic structural unit of a neoplasm or tumor. These cells have undergone genetic changes that allow them to evade the body's normal regulatory mechanisms for cell growth and death.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Under the microscope, the pathologist identified the abnormal growth as consisting primarily of neoplastic cells.
  • The treatment targets rapidly dividing neoplastic cells while attempting to spare healthy tissue.
  • A key characteristic of a neoplastic cell is its ability to proliferate without the normal signals for growth.

Advanced Usage

• "Clonal expansion of neoplastic cells": This phrase describes how a single, genetically altered cell gives rise to a large population of identical tumor cells.

  • The tumor's homogeneity suggested it originated from the clonal expansion of a single neoplastic cell.

• "Neoplastic cell transformation": Refers to the process by which a normal cell becomes a neoplastic cell.

  • Exposure to certain carcinogens can initiate neoplastic cell transformation.

Variants and Related Words

• Neoplasm (n): The medical term for a new, abnormal growth of tissue, which can be benign or malignant. A tumor is a neoplasm.

  • The biopsy confirmed the presence of a neoplasm.

• Neoplastic (adj): Relating to or characterized by the presence of a neoplasm.

  • The scan showed neoplastic activity in the lung.

• Tumor cell (n): A common synonym for "neoplastic cell," though "neoplastic" is a more precise clinical term.

  • The research focused on the metabolism of tumor cells.

Synonyms

• Tumor cell: A cell that is a constituent of a tumor.
• Cancer cell: Specifically refers to a neoplastic cell from a malignant tumor (cancer). Note: Not all neoplastic cells are cancerous; some are from benign tumors.

Related Phrases

• Population of neoplastic cells: A group or collection of these abnormal cells.

  • The therapy aims to reduce the population of neoplastic cells.

• Neoplastic cell proliferation: The rapid and uncontrolled multiplication of these cells.

  • The drug inhibits neoplastic cell proliferation.

Noun

1. a cell that is part of tumor