Adenocarcinoma

Overview
Adenocarcinoma is a form of carcinoma that originates in glandular tissue. To be classified as adenocarcinoma, the cells do not necessarily need to be part of a gland, as long as they have secretory properties. This form of carcinoma can occur in some higher mammals, including humans.

The term adenocarcinoma is derived from 'adeno' meaning 'pertaining to a gland' and 'carcinoma', which describes a cancer that has developed in the epithelial cells.

It can first present as an adenoma (a glandular tumor that is benign).

Topography
Examples of tissues where adenocarcinomas may arise:
 * Breast cancer
 * Colon cancer
 * Lung cancer
 * Prostate cancer
 * Stomach cancer
 * Pancreatic cancer (99% of pancreatic cancers are ductal adenocarcinomas )
 * Cervical cancer
 * Vaginal cancer