Glossary
A pancreatic cancer diagnosis means learning a whole new language for tests, treatments, symptoms, even body parts. Our glossary provides short definitions for any pancreatic cancer-related term.
There are currently 14 Terms in this directory beginning with the letter G.
Gemcitabine (Gemzar)
A chemotherapy drug frequently used to treat pancreatic cancer. Gemcitabine causes cell death by reducing the number of building blocks necessary to make DNA and shortening the DNA strands.
Gene
The functional and physical unit of heredity passed from parent to child; most genes contain the information for making a specific protein. Genes are composed of DNA.
Genetic counseling
Discussion with a counselor who has specific expertise in diseases caused by abnormal cells that are inherited from family members.
Genetic mutation
A change in the DNA sequence that makes a gene different from what is normally seen. Mutations cause many different variances in genes, and the majority are harmless. But some mutations make people more likely to develop certain diseases, including cancer.
Genetic testing
Medical testing of a person’s DNA, which can identify changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins that indicate the existence of a genetic disorder or disease.