somatic mutation theory of cancer

so·mat·ic mu·ta·tion the·o·ry of can·cer

that cancer is caused by a mutation or mutations in the body cells (as opposed to germ cells), especially nonlethal mutations associated with increased proliferation of the mutant cells.

Farlex Partner Medical Dictionary © Farlex 2012

so·mat·ic mu·ta·tion the·o·ry of can·cer

(sō-mat'ik myū-tā'shŭn thē'ŏr-ē kan'sĕr)

The proposition that cancer is caused by a mutation or mutations in the body cells (as opposed to germ cells), especially nonlethal mutations associated with increased proliferation of the mutant cells.

Medical Dictionary for the Health Professions and Nursing © Farlex 2012