cancer

/ˈkæːnsə/noun

An illness in which cells in part of the body begin to grow and multiply out of control.

Capitalized, it is also a zodiac sign and constellation. The figurative use, "a cancer on the organization", is strong and best used sparingly.

Related words

diabetesDiabetes insipidus; any condition marked by the passing of unusually large or uncontrolled amounts of urine, now especially the form caused by the body failing to produce or respond to the hormone vasopressin.tumorA lump of tissue that grows abnormally in the body; doctors distinguishing it may consider an abscess, metaplasia, or neoplasia.asthmaA chronic breathing disorder in which the airways can suddenly tighten, often triggered by allergens, cold air, exercise, or stress.malignantCausing harm or intending evil; dangerous and destructive.migraineA very painful headache, typically on one side of the head, that can come with sickness and sensitivity to light.benignGentle and mild; causing no harm.