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Familial polyposis: An inherited condition in which numerous polyps develop on the inside walls of the colon and rectum. It increases the risk for colon cancer.

Fecal occult blood test: A test to check for blood in stool.

Gastroenterologist: A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system.

Internal radiation: A procedure in which radioactive material sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters is placed directly into or near the tumor. Also called Brach therapy, implant radiation, or interstitial radiation therapy.

Intravenous. Injected into a blood vessel.

Local therapy: Treatment that affects cells in the tumor and the area close to it.

Lymph node: A rounded mass of lymphatic tissue that is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. Also known as a lymph gland. Lymph nodes are spread out along lymphatic vessels and contain many lymphocytes, which filter the lymphatic fluid.

Lymphatic system: The tissues and organs that produce, store, and carry white blood cells that fight infection and other diseases. This system includes the bone marrow, spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes and a network of thin tubes that carry lymph and white blood cells. These tubes branch, like blood vessels, into all the tissues of the body.

Malignant: Cancerous; a growth with a tendency to invade and destroy nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.

Medical oncologist: A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and biological therapy. A medical oncologist often serves as the main caretaker of someone who has cancer and coordinates treatment provided by other specialists.