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mast cell

Cells that contain granules which store a variety of inflammatory mediators including histamine. Normally, mast cells are not found in the circulation

metabolic disorder

Metabolic disorders consist of defects in any part of the body’s very complex chemical pathways that convert the food we eat into energy the body uses to perform daily functions.

metastasis

The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. Cells that have metastasized are like those in the original (primary) tumor.

metastasize

To spread from one part of the body to another.

mitochondria

A part of the cell that is the main energy source of the cell. It is often called the :power plants: of the body because it is where energy is created.

mosaicism

Chromosomal mosaicism is when different cells within a person have a different chromosomal makeup. Most commonly there will be some cells with a typical number of chromosomes (46 chromosomes) and other cells with an altered number or structure of chromosomes.

mutation

A permanent structural alteration in a person's DNA. In most cases, DNA mutations either have no effect or cause harm.

neoplasm

another word for tumor, means “new growth.”

nondisjunction

Nondisjunction is the failure of paired chromosomes to separate. This results in an abnormal number of chromosomes in the daughter cells.

NSAIDS

The abbreviation for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This is a large group of medications that are used to treat diseases associated with inflammation.