Cancer
Cancer is a group of diseases, each with its own name, treatment and chances for control or cure. Cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to multiply and grow uncontrollably, crowding out the normal cells. Although cancer research has made tremendous advances in the last 50 years, scientists still do not fully understand why normal cells mature and cancerous cells do not.

Central line
A central venous catheter (CVC) or central venous line is a catheter inserted into a large vein in the neck, chest or groin. In cancer patients the central line is inserted into a large vein close to the heart. The central line allows health professionals to perform blood tests and administer drugs without having to give the patient a needle each time. It is more efficient and less painful for the patient. A central line contrasts a peripheral line, which is usually inserted into the arms or hands. Read more

Central nervous system
The nervous system is a highly specialized network of nerve tissues that controls and coordinates all bodily functions. It is made up of the brain and spinal cord.

Chemotherapy
Chemo (chemical) therapy (treatment) involves the use of chemical substances (drugs) to treat disease. In its modern-day use, it refers to cytotoxic drugs used to treat cancer. Read more

Chickenpox
Chickenpox is the common name for Varicella zoster. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), also known as human herpes virus 3 (HHV-3), one of the eight herpes viruses known to affect humans. Its characteristic spots appear in two to three waves, mainly on the body and head rather than the hands and become itchy raw pox (pocks), small open sores that generally heal without scarring. Although it is a common childhood disease and there is now a vaccine to inoculate children against it, chicken pox is considered a medical emergency for a child on cancer treatment. The complications may easily become life threatening. Those who have NOT had chickenpox must ensure that they have not been around someone with chickenpox or shingles, at least one month prior to being in contact with a child receiving cancer treatment.

Once a child or teen with cancer has been in contact with chickenpox or shingles they are isolated and given a special inoculation called VZIG, a type of gamma globulin that helps them fight the effects of chickenpox should they contract it. The incubation time for chickenpox is 21 days and if VZIG is given, it will extend the period to 28 days. Chickenpox will appear as red spots with blisters. Children are infectious one to two days prior to developing the rash until all the lesions are crusted over. Shingles are caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, however only those who have had chickenpox can get shingles. You cannot get shingles from others, although those who have NOT had chickenpox can develop it from coming in contact with shingles.

Chronic
Persisting over a long period of time. Chronic diseases progress slowly and are continuous or recurring over long periods of time.

Congenital
Occurring during fetal life and present at birth.

Connective tissue
Tissues concerned with supporting and connecting other bodily structures such as fat, cartilage and bone.

Communicable disease
A disease that may be carried directly or indirectly from one person to another.

Cytotoxicity
The quality of being toxic to cells. Examples of toxic agents are chemical substance and immune cells.