10-propargyl-10-deazaaminopterin
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called folate analogues.
10-propargyl-10-deazaaminopterin
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called folate analogues.
1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging
A noninvasive imaging method of detecting and measuring activity at the cellular level. It provides chemical information and is used in conjunction with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which gives spatial information. Also called proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging.
2-methoxyestradiol
2ME2. A drug derived from estrogen that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors. It prevents the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need in order to grow.
3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone
3-AP. A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called ribonucleotide reductase inhibitors.
3-ap
3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone. A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called ribonucleotide reductase inhibitors.
3-dimensional
3-D. A graphic display of depth, width, and height.
5-fu
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites. Also called fluorouracil.
5Q- syndrome
5Q minus syndrome. A rare disorder caused by loss of part of the long arm (Q arm) of human chromosome 5. This syndrome affects myeloid (bone marrow) cells, causing treatment-resistant anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes that may lead to acute myelogenous leukemia.
9-cis retinoic acid
A drug being studied for cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called retinoids.
90Y-DOTA-biotin
A radioactive substance (yttrium-90) joined by a large chemical link (DOTA) to biotin, a vitamin.
abdomen
The area of the body that contains the pancreas, stomach, intestine, liver, gallbladder, and other organs.
abscess
An enclosed collection of pus in tissues, organs, or confined spaces in the body. An abscess is a sign of infection and is usually swollen and inflamed.
acetaminophen
A drug that reduces pain and fever (but not inflammation). It belongs to the family of drugs called analgesics.
acetylcysteine
A drug usually used to reduce the thickness of mucus and ease its removal. It is also used to reverse the toxicity of high doses of acetaminophen. Also called N-acetyl-L-cysteine.
acridine carboxamide
DACA. A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors.
actinic keratosis
A precancerous condition of thick, scaly patches of skin. Also called solar or senile keratosis.
acute leukemia
A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood-forming tissue (bone marrow).
acute lymphoblastic leukemia
ALL. A quickly progressing disease in which too many immature white blood cells called lymphoblasts are found in the blood and bone marrow. Also called acute lymphocytic leukemia.
acute
Having an abrupt onset of symptoms and a short course; not chronic.
acyclovir
An antiviral agent used to prevent or treat cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex infections that may occur when the body is immunosuppressed.
Ad 32
An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics. It is an anthracycline.
adenosine triphosphate
ATP. A substance present in all living cells that provides energy for many metabolic processes and is involved in making RNA. ATP made in the laboratory is being studied in patients with advanced solid tumors to see if it can decrease weight loss and improve muscle strength.
adjuvant therapy
Treatment given after the primary treatment to increase the chances of a cure. Adjuvant therapy may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy.
adverse effect
An unwanted side effect of treatment.
Ae-941
A substance made from shark cartilage that is being studied for its ability to prevent the growth of new blood vessels to solid tumors. It belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors.
aerodigestive tract
The combined organs and tissues of the respiratory tract and the upper part of the digestive tract (including the lips, mouth, tongue, nose, throat, vocal cords, and part of the esophagus and windpipe).
Afp
Alpha-fetoprotein. A protein normally produced by a developing fetus. AFP levels are usually undetectable in the blood of healthy nonpregnant adults. An elevated level of AFP suggests the presence of either a primary liver cancer or germ cell tumor.
Ag2037
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called glycinamide ribonucleotide formyl transferase inhibitors.
Ag3340
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors. AG3340 is a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor. Also called prinomastat.
aggressive lymphoma
A quickly growing cancer that arises in the cells of the lymphatic system.
alemtuzumab
A monoclonal antibody used to treat leukemia. Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory. They can find cancer cells and bind to them. Also called Campath-1H.
alendronate sodium
A drug that affects bone metabolism. It is used in treating osteoporosis and Paget's disease, and is being studied in the treatment of hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood) and in treating and reducing the risk of bone pain caused by cancer. Alendronate sodium belongs to the family of drugs called bisphosphonates.
alkylating agents
A family of anticancer drugs that interferes with the cell's DNA and inhibits cancer cell growth.
allogeneic bone marrow transplantation
A procedure in which a person receives stem cells, the cells from which all blood cells develop, from a compatible, though not genetically identical, donor.
allogeneic
Taken from different individuals of the same species. Also called allogenic.
allopurinol
A drug that lowers high levels of uric acid (a byproduct of metabolism) in the blood caused by some cancer treatments.
Allovectin-7
A substance that is being studied as a gene therapy agent for the treatment of cancer. It increases the ability of the immune system to recognize cancer cells and kill them.
alternative medicine
Practices not generally recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches and used instead of standard treatments. Alternative medicine includes the taking of dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, and herbal preparations; the drinking of special teas; and practices such as massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.
altretamine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
alum
A type of immune adjuvant (a substance used to help boost the immune response to a vaccine). Also called aluminum sulfate.
ALVAC-CEA vaccine
A cancer vaccine containing a canary pox virus (ALVAC) combined with the human carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) gene.
amifostine
A drug used as a chemoprotective drug to control some of the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
amikacin
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called aminoglycoside antibiotics.
aminocamptothecin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors.
aminoglutethimide
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors. Aminoglutethimide is used to decrease the production of sex hormones (estrogen or testosterone) and suppress the growth of tumors that need sex hormones to grow.
aminoglycoside antibiotics
A family of antibiotics that works against many types of bacteria and includes streptomycin, gentamicin, and neomycin. Aminoglycosides are used to treat bacterial infections.
aminolevulinic acid
A drug used in photodynamic therapy that is absorbed by tumor cells; when exposed to light, it becomes active and kills the cancer cells.
aminopterin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
amoxicillin
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called penicillins or penicillin derivatives.
amphotericin B
An antifungal drug used to treat infection.
amsacrine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors.
amyloidosis
A group of diseases in which protein is deposited in specific organs (localized amyloidosis) or throughout the body (systemic amyloidosis). Amyloidosis may be either primary (with no known cause) or secondary (caused by another disease, including some types of cancer). Generally, primary amyloidosis affects the nerves, skin, tongue, joints, heart, and liver; secondary amyloidosis often affects the spleen, kidneys, liver, and adrenal glands.
analgesics
Drugs that reduce pain. These drugs include aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen.
analog
In chemistry, a substance that is similar, but not identical, to another.
anaplastic large cell lymphoma
A rare aggressive form of lymphoma (cancer that begins in cells of the lymphatic system) that is usually of T-cell origin.
anaplastic
A term used to describe cancer cells that divide rapidly and bear little or no resemblance to normal cells.
anastrozole
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors. Anastrozole is used to decrease estrogen production and suppress the growth of tumors that need estrogen to grow.
androgen suppression
Treatment to suppress or block the production of male hormones. Androgen suppression is achieved by surgical removal of the testicles, by taking female sex hormones, or by taking other drugs, antiandrogens. Also called androgen ablation.
androgens
A family of hormones that promote the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics.
anemia
A condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal.
anetholtrithione
A drug that may reduce the risk of development or progression of cancer.
annamycin
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called anthracycline antibiotics.
anthracenediones
A subgroup of the family of anticancer drugs called anticancer antibiotics.
anthracycline
A member of a family of anticancer drugs that are also antibiotics.
anthraquinones
A family of anticancer drugs.
anti-CEA antibody
An antibody against carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a protein present on certain types of cancer cells.
anti-idiotype vaccine
A vaccine made of antibodies that see other antibodies as the antigen and bind to it. Anti-idiotype vaccines can stimulate the body to produce antibodies against tumor cells.
antiandrogen therapy
Treatment with drugs used to block production or interfere with the action of male sex hormones.
antiangiogenesis
Prevention of the growth of new blood vessels.
antibody therapy
Treatment with an antibody, a substance that can directly kill specific tumor cells or stimulate the immune system to kill tumor cells.
antibody
A type of protein made by certain white blood cells in response to a foreign substance (antigen). Each antibody can bind to only a specific antigen. The purpose of this binding is to help destroy the antigen. Antibodies can work in several ways, depending on the nature of the antigen. Some antibodies destroy antigens directly. Others make it easier for white blood cells to destroy the antigen.
antiestrogen
A substance that blocks the activity of estrogens, the family of hormones that promote the development and maintenance of female sex characteristics.
antifolate
A substance that blocks the activity of folic acid. Antifolates are used to treat cancer. Also called folate antagonist.
antigen-presenting cell vaccine
A vaccine made of antigens and antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Also called APC vaccine.
antigen-presenting cell
APC. A cell that shows antigen on its surface to other cells of the immune system. This is an important part of an immune response.
antimetabolite
A drug that is very similar to natural chemicals in a normal biochemical reaction in cells but different enough to interfere with the normal division and functions of cells.
antineoplastic antibiotics
A group of anticancer drugs that block cell growth by interfering with DNA, the genetic material in cells. Also called anticancer antibiotics or antitumor antibiotics.
antineoplastic
A substance that blocks the formation of neoplasms (growths that may become cancerous).
antisense c-fos
Synthetic genetic material that may slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.
antithymocyte globulin
A protein used to reduce the risk of or to treat graft-versus-host disease.
APC vaccine
A vaccine made of antigens and antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Also called antigen-presenting cell vaccine.
Apc8015
Immune system cells that are collected from a patient with prostate cancer and treated in the laboratory with a molecule found on prostate cells. The treated cells are being studied for their ability to stimulate the immune system to kill prostate cancer cells.
aplastic anemia
A condition in which the bone marrow is unable to produce blood cells.
apolizumab
A type of monoclonal antibody that is being studied as a treatment for hematologic (blood) cancers.
appendix
A small, fingerlike pouch that sticks out from the cecum (the first part of the large intestine near the end of the small intestine).
arginine butyrate
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
ascites
Abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen.
asparaginase
An enzyme used in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called antineoplastics.
aspergillosis
An infectious fungal disease that occurs most often in the skin, ears, nasal sinuses, and lungs of people with suppressed immune systems.
aspirin
A drug that reduces pain, fever, inflammation, and blood clotting. Aspirin belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. It is also being studied in cancer prevention.
asthenia
Weakness; lack of energy and strength.
astrocytoma
A tumor that begins in the brain or spinal cord in small, star-shaped cells called astrocytes.
atamestane
A drug being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called antiestrogens. Atamestane blocks the production of the hormone estrogen in the body.
Atp
Adenosine triphosphate. A substance present in all living cells that provides energy for many metabolic processes and is involved in making RNA. ATP made in the laboratory is being studied in patients with advanced solid tumors to see if it can decrease weight loss and improve muscle strength.
atrasentan
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer . It belongs to the family of drugs called endothelin-1 protein receptor antagonists.
autoimmune disease
A condition in which the body recognizes its own tissues as foreign and directs an immune response against them.
autologous bone marrow transplantation
A procedure in which bone marrow is removed from a person, stored, and then given back to the person after intensive treatment.
autologous lymphocytes
A person's white blood cells. Lymphocytes have a number of roles in the immune system, including the production of antibodies and other substances that fight infection and disease.
autologous tumor cells
Cancer cells from an individual's own tumor.
autologous
Taken from an individual's own tissues, cells, or DNA.
axillary lymph node dissection
Surgery to remove lymph nodes found in the armpit region. Also called axillary dissection.
axillary lymph nodes
Lymph nodes found in the armpit that drain the lymph channels from the breast.
azacitidine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
B cells
White blood cells that make antibodies and are an important part of the immune system. B cells come from bone marrow. Also called B lymphocytes.
B lymphocytes
White blood cells that make antibodies and are an important part of the immune system. B lymphocytes come from bone marrow. Also called B cells.
B3 antigen
A protein found on some tumor cells.
B7-1
A molecule that helps control immune responses in the body. B7-1 is involved in stimulating T-cells.
bacterial toxin
A toxic substance, made by bacteria, that can be modified to kill specific tumor cells without harming normal cells.
Bay 12-9566
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors.
Bbr 3464
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of platinum-based drugs.
beclomethasone
A drug being studied in the treatment of graft-versus-host disease. It belongs to a family of drugs called corticosteroids.
Bellini duct carcinoma
BDC. A rare type of kidney cancer that grows and spreads quickly. It begins in the duct of Bellini in the kidney.
benign proliferative breast disease
A group of noncancerous conditions that may increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Examples include ductal hyperplasia, lobular hyperplasia, and papillomas.
benign
Not cancerous; does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body.
benzoylphenylurea
BPU. A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called antitubulin agents.
Beriplast P
A substance used in surgical wound healing to cause a blood clot to form. It consists of blood-clotting factors found naturally in human blood.
beta alethine
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to a family of chemicals called disulfides.
beta carotene
A vitamin A precursor. Beta carotene belongs to the family of fat-soluble vitamins called carotenoids.
bexarotene
An anticancer drug used to decrease the growth of some types of cancer cells. Also called LGD1069.
Biafine cream
A topical preparation to reduce the risk of, and treat skin reactions to, radiation therapy.
bicalutamide
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antiandrogens.
bilateral cancer
Cancer that occurs in both paired organs, such as both breasts or both ovaries.
biliary
Having to do with the liver, bile ducts, and/or gallbladder.
biological response modifier
BRM. A substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease. Some BRMs may act directly on cancer cells to block their growth.
biological therapy
Treatment to stimulate or restore the ability of the immune system to fight infection and disease. Some biological therapy agents may act directly on cancer cells to block
biomarkers
A substance sometimes found in an increased amount in the blood, other body fluids, or tissues and which may mean that a certain type of cancer is in the body. Examples of biomarkers include CA 125 (ovarian cancer), CA 15-3 (breast cancer), CEA (ovarian, lung, breast, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract cancers), and PSA (prostate cancer). Also called tumor markers.
Biomed 101
A substance that is being studied for its ability to decrease the side effects of interleukin-2 (IL-2).
biopsy specimen
Tissue removed from the body and examined under a microscope to determine whether disease is present.
biopsy
The removal of cells or tissues for examination under a microscope. When only a sample of tissue is removed, the procedure is called an incisional biopsy or core biopsy. When an entire lump or suspicious area is removed, the procedure is called an excisional biopsy. When a sample of tissue or fluid is removed with a needle, the procedure is called a needle biopsy or fine-needle aspiration.
bisphosphonates
A family of drugs used to treat osteoporosis and the bone pain caused by some types of cancer. Also called diphosphonates.
bizelesin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents. It is also an antitumor antibiotic.
bleomycin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
blood vessel
A tube through which the blood circulates in the body. Blood vessels include a network of arteries, arterioles, capillaries, venules, and veins.
Bms-182751
A platinum compound used in chemotherapy.
Bms-188797
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
Bms-214662
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
Bms-247550
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
Bms-275291
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors (MMPIs).
bolus infusion
A single dose of drug usually injected into a blood vessel over a short period of time. Also called bolus.
bolus
A single dose of drug usually injected into a blood vessel over a short period of time. Also called bolus infusion.
bone marrow ablation
The destruction of bone marrow using radiation or drugs.
bone marrow metastases
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the bone marrow.
bone marrow transplantation
A procedure to replace bone marrow destroyed by treatment with high doses of anticancer drugs or radiation. Transplantation may be autologous (an individual's own marrow saved before treatment), allogeneic (marrow donated by someone else), or syngeneic (marrow donated by an identical twin).
bone marrow
The soft, sponge-like tissue in the center of bones that produces white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
bone metastases
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the bone.
boron neutron capture therapy
A type of radiation therapy. The person is given an intravenous infusion containing the element boron, which concentrates in the tumor cells. The person then receives radiation therapy with atomic particles called neutrons from a small research nuclear reactor. The radiation is absorbed by the boron, killing the tumor cells without harming normal cells.
brachytherapy
A procedure in which radioactive material sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters is placed directly into or near a tumor. Also called internal radiation, implant radiation, or interstitial radiation therapy.
brain metastases
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the brain.
brain stem glioma
A tumor located in the part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord (the brain stem). It may grow rapidly or slowly, depending on the grade of the tumor.
brain stem tumor
A tumor in the part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord (the brain stem).
breakthrough pain
Intense increases in pain that occur with rapid onset even when pain- control medication is being used. Breakthrough pain can occur spontaneously or in relation to a specific activity.
breast-conserving surgery
An operation to remove the breast cancer but not the breast itself. Types of breast-conserving surgery include lumpectomy (removal of the lump), quadrantectomy (removal of one quarter of the breast), and segmental mastectomy (removal of the cancer as well as some of the breast tissue around the tumor and the lining over the chest muscles below the tumor).
Brief Pain Inventory
A questionnaire used to measure pain.
bronchoscopy
A procedure in which a thin, lighted tube is inserted through the nose or mouth. This allows examination of the inside of the trachea and bronchi (air passages that lead to the lung), as well as the lung. Bronchoscopy may be used to detect cancer or to perform some treatment procedures.
bronchus
A large air passage that leads from the trachea (windpipe) to the lung.
broxuridine
A drug that makes cancer cells more sensitive to radiation and is also used as a diagnostic agent to determine how fast cancer cells grow.
bryostatin 1
A drug used for its antitumor activity.
bupropion
A substance that is used to treat depression, and to help people quit smoking. It belongs to the family of drugs called antidepressants.
Burkitt's lymphoma
A type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that most often occurs in young people aged 12-30 years. The disease usually causes a rapidly growing tumor in the abdomen.
buserelin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called gonadotropin-releasing hormones. In prostate cancer therapy, buserelin blocks the production of testosterone in the testicles.
busulfan
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
buthionine sulfoximine
A drug that may help prevent resistance to some anticancer drugs.
c-erbB-2
The gene that controls cell growth by making the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. Also called HER2/neu.
calcitonin
A hormone formed by the C cells of the thyroid gland. It helps maintain a healthy level of calcium in the blood. When the calcium level is too high, calcitonin lowers it.
calcitriol
The active form of vitamin D. Calcitriol is formed in the kidneys or made in the laboratory. It is used as a drug to increase calcium levels in the body in order to treat skeletal and tissue-related calcium deficiencies caused by kidney or thyroid disorders.
calcium carbonate
A mineral taken primarily as a supplement to prevent osteoporosis. It is also being studied for cancer prevention.
calcium
A mineral found in teeth, bones, and other body tissues.
camptothecin analogue
An anticancer drug related in structure to camptothecin, a topoisomerase inhibitor. One such drug is aminocamptothecin.
camptothecin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors.
cancer vaccine
A vaccine designed to prevent or treat cancer.
cancer
A term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control. Cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and can spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Candidiasis
A condition in which Candida albicans, a type of yeast, grows out of control in moist skin areas of the body. It is usually a result of a weakened immune system, but can be a side effect of chemotherapy or treatment with antibiotics. Thrush usually affects the mouth (oral thrush); however, rarely, it spreads throughout the entire body. Also called Candidosis or thrush.
Candidosis
A condition in which Candida albicans, a type of yeast, grows out of control in moist skin areas of the body. It is usually a result of a weakened immune system, but can be a side effect of chemotherapy or treatment with antibiotics. Thrush usually affects the mouth (oral thrush); however, rarely, it spreads throughout the entire body. Also called Candidiasis or thrush.
capecitabine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
capsaicin
A component of certain plants, including cayenne and red pepper, used topically for peripheral nerve pain. Also being studied for controlling mucositis pain after chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
captopril
A drug used to lower high blood pressure. It belongs to the family of drugs called ACE inhibitors.
carbogen
An inhalant of oxygen and carbon dioxide that increases the sensitivity of tumor cells to the effects of radiation therapy.
carboplatin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called platinum compounds.
carboxyamidotriazole
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors.
carboxypeptidase-G2
A bacterial enzyme that belongs to the family of drugs called chemoprotective agents. It is used to neutralize the toxic effects of methotrexate.
cardiac
Having to do with the heart.
cardiopulmonary
Having to do with the heart and lungs.
carzelesin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
caspofungin acetate
A drug used to prevent or treat infections caused by a fungus (a type of microorganism). It belongs to the family of drugs called antifungal agents.
castration
Removal or destruction of the testicles or ovaries using radiation, surgery, or drugs. Medical castration refers to the use of drugs to suppress the function of the ovaries or testicles.
catheter
A flexible tube used to deliver fluids into or withdraw fluids from the body.
Cc-1088
A drug that is similar but not identical to thalidomide and is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors.
Cc-5013
A substance that is similar to thalidomide, and that prevents the growth of new blood vessels to solid tumors. It belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors.
CD34 antigen
A protein found on the surface of some bone marrow and blood cells.
cefepime
A drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics.
ceftriaxone
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics.
cellulitis
An acute, spreading infection of the deep tissues of the skin and muscle that causes the skin to become warm and tender and may also cause fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and blisters.
CEP-2563 dihydrochloride
A growth factor antagonist that may stop tumor cells from growing.
ceramide
A type of fat produced in the body. It may cause some types of cells to die and is being studied in cancer treatment.
cerebrospinal fluid diversion
A process used to drain fluid that has built up around the brain and spinal cord. A shunt (a long, thin tube) is placed in a ventricle of the brain and threaded under the skin to another part of the body, usually the abdomen. The shunt carries excess fluid away from the brain so it may be absorbed elsewhere in the body.
cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
CIN. A general term for the growth of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. Numbers from 1 to 3 may be used to describe how much of the cervix contains abnormal cells.
cetuximab
A type of monoclonal antibody being studied as an anticancer drug. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells.
cevimeline
A substance that increases production of saliva and tears. It is being studied as a treatment for dry mouth caused by radiation therapy to the head and neck. It belongs to the family of drugs called cholinergic enhancers.
Cgp 48664
An anticancer drug that may inhibit the growth of some tumors.
chemoprevention
The use of drugs, vitamins, or other agents to try to reduce the risk of, or delay the development or recurrence of, cancer.
chemoprotective
A quality of some drugs used in cancer treatment. Chemoprotective agents protect healthy tissue from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs.
chemosensitizer
A drug that makes tumor cells more sensitive to the effects of chemotherapy.
chemotherapy
Treatment with anticancer drugs.
chest wall
The muscles, bones, and joints that make up the area of the body between the neck and the abdomen.
chloroquinoxaline sulfonamide
CQS. A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug.
chondrosarcoma
A type of cancer that forms in cartilage.
chordoma
A type of bone cancer that usually starts in the lower spinal cord.
chronic leukemia
A slowly progressing cancer of the blood-forming tissues.
chronic lymphoblastic lymphoma
A slowly progressing disease in which too many immature white blood cells (called lymphoblasts) are found in the body.
chronic lymphocytic leukemia
A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells (called lymphocytes) are found in the body.
chronic myelogenous leukemia
CML. A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells are made in the bone marrow. Also called chronic myeloid leukemia or chronic granulocytic leukemia.
chronic phase chronic myelogenous leukemia
A phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia that may last from several months to several years. Although there may be no symptoms of leukemia, there are too many white blood cells.
chronic
A disease or condition that persists or progresses over a long period of time.
Ci-1033
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Ci-958
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called DNA-intercalating compounds.
Ci-994
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Also called N-acetyldinaline.
cidofovir
A drug used to treat infection caused by viruses.
cimetidine
A drug usually used to treat stomach ulcers and heartburn. It is also commonly used in a regimen to prevent allergic reactions.
ciprofloxacin
An anti-infection drug that is also being studied in bladder cancer chemotherapy.
cirrhosis
A type of chronic, progressive liver disease in which liver cells are replaced by scar tissue.
cisplatin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called platinum compounds.
cladribine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
clarithromycin
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called macrolides.
clear cell carcinoma
A rare type of tumor of the female genital tract in which the inside of the cells looks clear when viewed under a microscope.
clear cell sarcoma of the kidney
A rare type of kidney cancer. Clear cell sarcoma can spread from the kidney to other organs, most commonly the bone, but also including the lungs, brain, and soft tissues of the body.
clinical practice guidelines
Guidelines developed to help health care professionals and patients make decisions about screening, prevention, or treatment of a specific health condition.
clodronate
A drug used as treatment for hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood) and for cancer that has spread to the bone (bone metastases). It may decrease pain, the risk of fractures, and the development of new bone metastases.
CNS metastases
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the central nervous system.
CNS tumors
Tumors of the central nervous system, including brain stem glioma, craniopharyngioma, medulloblastoma, and meningioma.
Cns
Central nervous system. The brain and spinal cord.
co-trimoxazole
A combination of two anti-infection drugs, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It is used to fight bacterial and protozoal infections.
coactivated T cells
T cells that have been coated with monoclonal antibodies to enhance their ability to kill tumor cells.
Cockayne syndrome
A genetic condition characterized by short stature, premature aging, sensitivity to light, and possibly deafness and mental retardation.
Col-3
An anticancer drug that may stop tumor growth by preventing the growth of new blood vessels into a solid tumor.
colectomy
An operation to remove the colon. An open colectomy is the removal of the colon through a surgical incision made in the wall of the abdomen. Laparoscopic-assisted colectomy uses a thin, lighted tube attached to a video camera. It allows the surgeon to remove the colon without a large incision.
colo-anal anastomosis
A surgical procedure in which the colon is attached to the anus after the rectum has been removed. Also called colo-anal pull-through.
colo-anal pull-through
A surgical procedure in which the colon is attached to the anus after the rectum has been removed. Also called colo-anal anastomosis.
colonoscopy
An examination of the inside of the colon using a thin, lighted tube (called a colonoscope) inserted into the rectum. If abnormal areas are seen, tissue can be removed and examined under a microscope to determine whether disease is present.
colony-stimulating factors
Substances that stimulate the production of blood cells. Colony-stimulating factors include granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (also called G-CSF and filgrastim), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factors (also called GM-CSF and sargramostim), and promegapoietin.
combination chemotherapy
Treatment using more than one anticancer drug.
complementary and alternative medicine
CAM. Forms of treatment that are used in addition to (complementary) or instead of (alternative) standard treatments. These practices are not considered standard medical approaches. CAM includes dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.
complementary medicine
Practices not generally recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches and used to enhance or complement standard treatments. Complementary medicine includes dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.
complete blood count
CBC. A test to check the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a sample of blood. Also called blood cell count.
complete remission
The disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment. This does not always mean the cancer has been cured. Also called a complete response.
complete response
The disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment. This does not always mean the cancer has been cured. Also called a complete remission.
compression bandage
A bandage designed to provide pressure to a particular area.
computed tomographic colonography
CTC. A procedure in which a detailed picture of the colon is created by an x-ray machine linked to a computer. Also called computed tomography (CT) scan or computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan of the colon.
computed tomography colography
A method under study to examine the colon by taking a series of x-rays (called a CT scan) and then using a high-powered computer to reconstruct 2-D and 3-D pictures of the interior surfaces of the colon from these x-rays. The pictures can be saved, manipulated to better viewing angles, and reviewed after the procedure, even years later. Also called virtual colonoscopy.
computed tomography
CT scan. A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body taken from different angles; the pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. Also called computerized tomography and computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan.
congestive heart failure
Weakness of the heart muscle that leads to a buildup of fluid in body tissues.
consolidation therapy
Chemotherapy treatments given after induction chemotherapy to further reduce the number of cancer cells.
contiguous
Touching or very close together.
continuous infusion
The administration of a fluid into a blood vessel, usually over a prolonged period of time.
conventional treatment
A currently accepted and widely used treatment for a certain type of disease, based on the results of past research. Also called conventional therapy.
cooperative group
A group of physicians, hospitals, or both formed to treat a large number of persons in the same way so that a new treatment can be evaluated quickly. Clinical trials of new cancer treatments often require many more people than a single physician or hospital can care for.
cordycepin
An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
core biopsy
The removal of a tissue sample with a needle for examination under a microscope.
corticosteroids
Hormones that have antitumor activity in lymphomas and lymphoid leukemias; in addition, corticosteroids (steroids) may be used for hormone replacement and for the management of some of the complications of cancer and its treatment.
cortisone
A natural steroid hormone produced in the adrenal gland. It can also be made in the laboratory. Cortisone reduces swelling and can suppress immune responses.
Corynebacterium granulosum
A bacterium that may stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.
COX-2 inhibitors
Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors. A family of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to relieve pain and inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors are being studied in the prevention of colon polyps, and as anticancer drugs.
Cp-358,774
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Also called erlotinib.
Cp-609,754
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug.
Cp4071
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
crisnatol mesylate
An anticancer drug that interferes with the DNA in cancer cells.
Crohn's disease
Chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly the bowel. Crohn's disease increases the risk for colon cancer.
cruciferous vegetables
A family of vegetables that includes kale, collard greens, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and turnips. These vegetables contain substances that may protect against cancer.
cryosurgery
Treatment performed with an instrument that freezes and destroys abnormal tissues.
Csf
Cerebrospinal fluid. The fluid flowing around the brain and spinal cord. CSF is produced in the ventricles of the brain.
Ct-2103
A protein that can be linked to a chemotherapy drug to deliver the drug directly to the tumor with fewer side effects. It is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
Ct-2584
A drug that may prevent the growth of blood vessels from surrounding tissue into a solid tumor. It is being studied for its ability to treat cancer.
cutaneous breast cancer
Cancer that has spread from the breast to the skin.
cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors
COX-2 inhibitors. A family of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to relieve pain and inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors are being studied in the prevention of colon polyps, and as anticancer drugs.
cyclophosphamide
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
cyclosporine
A drug used to help reduce the risk of rejection of organ and bone marrow transplants by the body. It is also used in clinical trials to make cancer cells more sensitive to anticancer drugs.
cystosarcoma phyllodes
CSP. A type of tumor found in breast tissue. It is often large and bulky and grows quickly. It is usually benign (not cancer), but may be malignant (cancer). Also called phyllodes tumor.
cytarabine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
cytotoxic chemotherapy
Anticancer drugs that kill cells, especially cancer cells.
cytotoxic T cells
A type of white blood cell that can directly destroy specific cells. T cells can be separated from other blood cells, grown in the laboratory, and then given to a patient to destroy tumor cells. Certain cytokines can also be given to a patient to help form cytotoxic T cells in the patient's body.
D-20761
A synthetic luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) antagonist that suppresses LH and sex steroid levels.
dacarbazine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
Daca
Acridine carboxamide. A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors.
daclizumab
A monoclonal antibody that is being studied for treatment of adult T-cell leukemia. Also called dacliximab. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells.
dactinomycin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
danazol
A synthetic hormone that belongs to the family of drugs called androgens and is used to treat endometriosis. It is being evaluated in the treatment of endometrial cancer.
daunorubicin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
decitabine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
deferoxamine
An iron-chelating agent that removes iron from tumors by inhibiting DNA synthesis and causing cancer cell death. It is used in conjunction with other anticancer agents in pediatric neuroblastoma therapy.
dehydroepiandrosterone
DHEA. A substance that is being studied as a cancer prevention drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called steroids.
dendritic cell vaccine
A vaccine made of antigens and dendritic antigen-presenting cells (APCs).
dendritic cell
A special type of antigen-presenting cell (APC) that activates T lymphocytes.
denileukin diftitox
A substance used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma when other treatments have not worked.
dental implant
A small metal pin placed inside the jawbone to mimic the root of a tooth. Dental implants can be used to help anchor a false tooth or teeth, or a crown or bridge.
deoxycytidine
A drug that protects healthy tissues from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs.
DepoFoam-encapsulated cytarabine
The anticancer drug cytarabine formulated inside small particles of a synthetic lipid material called DepoFoam. This dosage form slowly releases the drug and provides a sustained action.
dermatitis
Inflammation of the skin.
desmoid tumor
A tumor of the tissue that surrounds muscles, usually in the abdomen. A desmoid tumor rarely metastasizes (spreads to other parts of the body). Also called aggressive fibromatosis, especially when the tumor is outside the abdomen.
Des
Diethylstilbestrol. A synthetic hormone that was prescribed from the early 1940s until 1971 to help women with complications of pregnancy. DES has been linked to an increased risk of clear cell carcinoma of the vagina in daughters of women who used DES. DES may also increase the risk of breast cancer in women who used DES.
dexamethasone
A synthetic steroid (similar to steroid hormones produced naturally in the adrenal gland). Dexamethasone is used to treat leukemia and lymphoma and may be used to treat some of the problems caused by other cancers and their treatment.
dexrazoxane
A drug used to protect the heart from the toxic effects of anthracycline drugs such as doxorubicin. It belongs to the family of drugs called chemoprotective agents.
DHA-paclitaxel
A combination of DHA (a natural fatty acid) and paclitaxel (an anticancer drug) that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
Dhea
Dehydroepiandrosterone. A substance that is being studied as a cancer prevention drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called steroids.
diabetes
A disease in which the body does not properly control the amount of sugar in the blood. As a result, the level of sugar in the blood is too high. This disease occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use it properly.
dialysis
The process of cleansing the blood when the kidneys are not able to filter the blood.
diaziquone
AZQ. An anticancer drug that is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and kill cancer cells in the central nervous system.
didanosine
A drug used to treat infection caused by viruses.
digital photography
A type of photography in which images can be viewed on a computer screen.
digital rectal examination
DRE. An examination in which a doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities.
diphosphonates
A family of drugs used to treat osteoporosis and the bone pain caused by some types of cancer. Also called bisphosphonates.
dipyridamole
A drug that prevents blood cell clumping and enhances the effectiveness of fluorouracil and other chemotherapeutic agents.
disease progression
Cancer that continues to grow or spread.
distant cancer
Refers to cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to distant organs or distant lymph nodes.
disulfiram
A drug that slows the metabolism of retinoids, allowing them to act over a longer period of time.
diuretic
A drug that increases the production of urine.
diverticulosis
A condition marked by small sacs or pouches (diverticula) in the walls of an organ such as the stomach or colon. These sacs can become inflamed and cause a condition called diverticulitis, which may be a risk factor for certain types of cancer.
Dna
Deoxyribonucleic acid. The molecules inside cells that carry genetic information and pass it from one generation to the next.
docetaxel
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors.
dolastatin 10
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors.
donepezil
A drug used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. It belongs to the family of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors. It is being studied as a treatment for side effects caused by radiation therapy to the brain.
dose-rate
The strength of a treatment given over a period of time.
double-blinded
A clinical trial in which neither the medical staff nor the person knows which of several possible therapies the person is receiving.
Down syndrome
A disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21 and characterized by mental retardation and distinguishing physical features.
doxercalciferol
A substance that is being studied in the prevention of recurrent prostate cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called vitamin D analogs.
doxorubicin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics. It is an anthracycline.
doxycycline
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection.
Dppe
Belongs to a group of antihormone drugs.
dronabinol
A synthetic pill form of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an active ingredient in marijuana that is used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy.
drug tolerance
A condition that occurs when the body gets used to a medicine so that either more medicine is needed or different medicine is needed.
ductal carcinoma in situ
DCIS. Abnormal cells that involve only the lining of a duct. The cells have not spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. Also called intraductal carcinoma.
ductal carcinoma
The most common type of breast cancer. It begins in the cells that line the milk ducts in the breast.
Dx-52-1
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics. It is an anthracycline.
dyscrasia
Disease. Usually refers to diseases of the blood.
dysplasia
Cells that look abnormal under a microscope but are not cancer.
ecteinascidin 743
An anticancer drug that inhibits the growth of cancer cells by disrupting the structure of tumor-cell DNA.
edatrexate
An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called antimetabolites.
edema
Swelling caused by excess fluid in body tissues.
edrecolomab
A type of monoclonal antibody used in cancer detection or therapy. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells.
eflornithine
An antiprotozoal drug that is being studied for cancer prevention.
Emd 121974
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer and antiangiogenesis drug.
emitefur
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
enalapril
An antihypertensive agent that can also be used to slow or prevent the progression of heart disease in people with childhood cancer treated with drugs that may be harmful to the heart.
endocrine cancer
Cancer that occurs in endocrine tissue, the tissue in the body that secretes hormones.
endometrial disorder
Abnormal cell growth in the endometrium (the lining of the uterus).
endometrial
Having to do with the endometrium (the layer of tissue that lines the uterus).
endoscopy
The use of a thin, lighted tube (called an endoscope) to examine the inside of the body.
endostatin
A drug that is being studied for its ability to prevent the growth of new blood vessels into a solid tumor. Endostatin belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors.
endothelin receptor antagonists
A family of drugs that block the hormone endothelin and may prevent prostate cancer from spreading to the bones. They may also prevent the growth and spread of other types of cancer, including colorectal cancer.
eniluracil
An anticancer drug that increases the effectiveness of fluorouracil. Also called ethynyluracil.
enoxaparin
A drug used to prevent blood clots. It belongs to the family of drugs called anticoagulants.
eosinophilia
A condition in which the number of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the blood is greatly increased. Eosinophilia is often a response to infection or allergens (substances that cause an allergic response).
eosinophil
A type of white blood cell.
ependymal tumors
A type of brain tumor that usually begins in the central canal of the spinal cord. Ependymal tumors may also develop in the cells lining the ventricles of the brain, which produce and store the special fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) that protects the brain and spinal cord. Also called ependymomas.
epidermal growth factor receptor
EGFR. The protein found on the surface of some cells and to which epidermal growth factor binds, causing the cells to divide. It is found at abnormally high levels on the surface of many types of cancer cells, so these cells may divide excessively in the presence of epidermal growth factor. Also known as ErbB1 or HER1.
epidural
Having to do with the space between the wall of the spinal canal and the covering of the spinal cord. An epidural injection is given into this space.
epinephrine
A hormone and neurotransmitter. Also called adrenaline.
epipodophyllotoxins
A family of drugs used to treat a variety of childhood cancers. These drugs belong to a larger class of drugs called topoisomerase II inhibitors.
epirubicin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
epithelial ovarian cancer
Cancer that occurs in the cells lining the ovaries.
epithelial
Refers to the cells that line the internal and external surfaces of the body.
epitope
A part of a molecule that an antibody will recognize and bind to.
epoetin alfa
A colony-stimulating factor that is made in the laboratory. It increases the production of red blood cells.
epratuzumab
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies.
Epstein-Barr virus
EBV. A common virus that remains dormant in most people. It has been associated with certain cancers, including Burkitt's lymphoma, immunoblastic lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Era-923
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to a family of drugs called antiestrogens.
erb-38 immunotoxin
A toxic substance linked to an antibody that attaches to tumor cells and kills them.
erlotinib
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Also called CP-358,774 and OSI-774.
esophagitis
Inflammation of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach).
estramustine
A combination of the hormone estradiol (an estrogen) and nitrogen mustard (an anticancer drug). Used in the palliative therapy of prostate cancer.
estrogen receptor negative
ER-. Breast cancer cells that do not have a protein (receptor molecule) to which estrogen will attach. Breast cancer cells that are ER- do not need the hormone estrogen to grow and usually do not respond to hormone (antiestrogen) therapy that blocks these receptor sites.
estrogen receptor positive
ER+. Breast cancer cells that have a protein (receptor molecule) to which estrogen will attach. Breast cancer cells that are ER+ need the hormone estrogen to grow and will usually respond to hormone (antiestrogen) therapy that blocks these receptor sites.
estrogen replacement therapy
ERT. Hormones (estrogen, progesterone, or both) given to postmenopausal women or to women who have had their ovaries surgically removed. Hormones are given to replace the estrogen no longer produced by the ovaries.
etanidazole
A drug that increases the effectiveness of radiation therapy.
ethynyluracil
An anticancer drug that increases the effectiveness of fluorouracil. Also called eniluracil.
etidronate
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates are used as treatment for hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood) and for cancer that has spread to the bone (bone metastases).
etoposide
An anticancer drug that is a podophyllotoxin derivative and belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors.
evaluable disease
Disease that cannot be measured directly by the size of the tumor but can be evaluated by other methods specific to a particular clinical trial.
exemestane
An anticancer drug used to decrease estrogen production and suppress the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors.
experimental
Being studied; investigational.
fallopian tubes
Part of the female reproductive tract. The long slender tubes through which eggs pass from the ovaries to the uterus.
familial adenomatous polyposis
FAP. An inherited condition in which numerous polyps (growths that protrude from mucous membranes) form on the inside walls of the colon and rectum. It increases the risk for colon cancer. Also called familial polyposis.
familial polyposis
An inherited condition in which numerous polyps (growths that protrude from mucous membranes) form on the inside walls of the colon and rectum. It increases the risk for colon cancer. Also called familial adenomatous polyposis or FAP.
Fanconi's anemia
A rare and often fatal inherited disease in which the bone marrow fails to produce red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, or a combination of these cells. The disease may transform into myelodysplastic syndrome or leukemia. Also called Fanconi's syndrome.
Fap
An inherited condition in which numerous polyps (growths that protrude from mucous membranes) form on the inside walls of the colon and rectum. It increases the risk for colon cancer. Also called familial adenomatous polyposis or familial polyposis.
fatty acids
A major component of fats that are used by the body for energy and tissue development.
fatty-replaced breast tissue
A term used in mammography that refers to the replacement of breast tissue with fatty tissue. This commonly occurs as a woman ages.
fazarabine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
fecal occult blood test
A test to check for blood in stool. (Fecal refers to stool; occult means hidden.)
fenretinide
A drug being studied for cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called retinoids.
fentanyl
A narcotic opioid drug that is used in the treatment of pain.
fibrin sealant
A type of surgical glue that is made from human blood-clotting proteins, and that is used during surgery to control bleeding.
fibrosis
The growth of fibrous tissue.
filgrastim-SD/01
A substance that is being studied for its ability to increase numbers of white blood cells in people who are receiving chemotherapy. It belongs to the family of drugs called colony-stimulating factors.
filgrastim
A colony-stimulating factor that stimulates the production of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). It is a cytokine that belongs to the family of drugs called hematopoietic (blood-forming) agents. Also called granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF).
finasteride
A drug used to reduce the amount of male hormone (testosterone) produced by the body.
fine-needle aspiration
The removal of tissue or fluid with a needle for examination under a microscope. Also called needle biopsy.
flavopiridol
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called flavanoids.
flecainide
A drug that is used to treat abnormal heart rhythms. It may also relieve neuropathic pain, the burning, stabbing, or stinging pain that may arise from damage to nerves caused by some types of cancer or cancer treatment.
floxuridine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
fluconazole
A drug that treats infections caused by fungi.
flucytosine
A drug that treats infections caused by fungi.
fludarabine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
fludeoxyglucose F 18
The radioactive form of glucose used in positron emission tomography (PET), a diagnostic imaging procedure.
fludrocortisone
A synthetic corticosteroid. It is used to replace steroid hormones normally produced by the adrenal gland.
fluoxetine
A drug used to treat depression. It belongs to the family of drugs called antidepressants.
flutamide
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antiandrogens.
folate antagonist
A substance that blocks the activity of folic acid. Folate antagonists are used to treat cancer. Also called antifolate.
folic acid
A B-complex vitamin that is being studied as a cancer prevention agent. Also called folate.
Fr901228
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called depsipeptides.
functional magnetic resonance imaging
A noninvasive tool used to observe functioning in the brain or other organs by detecting changes in chemical composition, blood flow, or both.
gabapentin
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for relieving hot flashes in women with breast cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called anticonvulsants.
gallium nitrate
A drug that lowers blood calcium. Used as treatment for hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood) and for cancer that has spread to the bone (bone metastases).
ganciclovir
An antiviral agent used to prevent or treat cytomegalovirus infections that may occur when the body's immune system is suppressed. In gene therapy, ganciclovir is used with an altered herpes simplex virus-1 gene to kill advanced melanoma cells and brain tumor cells.
gastrointestinal stromal tumor
GIST. A type of tumor that usually begins in cells in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. It can be benign or malignant.
gastrointestinal
GI. Refers to the stomach and intestines.
gemcitabine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
gemtuzumab ozogamicin
A type of monoclonal antibody used in cancer detection or therapy. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells.
gene therapy
Treatment that alters a gene. In studies of gene therapy for cancer, researchers are trying to improve the body's natural ability to fight the disease or to make the cancer cells more sensitive to other kinds of therapy.
gene-modified
Cells that have been altered to contain different genetic material than they originally contained.
genetic counseling
A communication process between a specially trained health professional and a person concerned about the genetic risk of disease. The person's family and personal medical history may be discussed, and counseling may lead to genetic testing.
gene
The functional and physical unit of heredity passed from parent to offspring. Genes are pieces of DNA, and most genes contain the information for making a specific protein.
germ cell tumors
Tumors that begin in the cells that give rise to sperm or eggs. They can occur virtually anywhere in the body and can be either benign or malignant.
Gerota's fascia
A fibrous envelope of tissue that surrounds the kidney. Also called renal fascia.
gestational trophoblastic tumor
A rare cancer in women of childbearing age in which cancer cells grow in the tissues that are formed in the uterus after conception. Also called gestational trophoblastic disease, gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, molar pregnancy, or choriocarcinoma.
Gleason score
A system of grading prostate cancer cells to determine the best treatment and to predict how well a person is likely to do. A low Gleason score means the cancer cells are very similar to normal prostate cells; a high Gleason score means the cancer cells are very different from normal.
glial tumors
A general term for many types of tumors of the central nervous system, including astrocytomas, ependymal tumors, glioblastoma multiforme, and primitive neuroectodermal tumors.
glioblastoma multiforme
A type of brain tumor that forms from glial (supportive) tissue of the brain. It grows very quickly and has cells that look very different from normal cells. Also called grade IV astrocytoma.
glioblastoma
A general term that refers to malignant astrocytoma, a type of brain tumor.
glioma
A cancer of the brain that comes from glial, or supportive, cells.
gliosarcoma
A type of glioma (cancer of the brain that comes from glial, or supportive, cells).
glossectomy
Surgical removal of all or part of the tongue.
glucocorticoid
A compound that belongs to the family of compounds called corticosteroids (steroids). Glucocorticoids affect metabolism and have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. They may be naturally produced (hormones) or synthetic (drugs).
glufosfamide
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
glutamine
An amino acid used in nutrition therapy. It is also being studied for the treatment of diarrhea caused by radiation therapy to the pelvis.
glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase inhibitors
A family of drugs that block DNA synthesis and may prevent tumor growth. They are being studied as a treatment for cancer.
GM2-KLH vaccine
A substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies that fight certain cancer cells.
goserelin
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues. Goserelin is used to block hormone production in the ovaries or testicles.
gossypol
An anticancer drug extracted from the cotton plant.
grade
The grade of a tumor depends on how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope and how quickly the tumor is likely to grow and spread. Grading systems are different for each type of cancer.
graft-versus-host disease
GVHD. A reaction of donated bone marrow or peripheral stem cells against a person's tissue.
graft-versus-tumor
An immune response to a person's tumor cells by immune cells present in a donor's transplanted tissue, such as bone marrow or peripheral blood.
granisetron
A drug that prevents or reduces nausea and vomiting. It belongs to the family of drugs called antiemetics.
granulosa cell tumor
A type of slow-growing, malignant tumor that usually affects the ovary.
growth factors
Substances made by the body that function to regulate cell division and cell survival. Some growth factors are also produced in the laboratory and used in biological therapy.
gynecologic
Having to do with the female reproductive tract (including the cervix, endometrium, fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, and vagina).
hairy cell leukemia
A type of chronic leukemia in which the abnormal white blood cells appear to be covered with tiny hairs when viewed under a microscope.
halofuginone hydrobromide
A substance that is being studied for its ability to slow the growth of connective tissue and prevent the growth of new blood vessels to a solid tumor. It belongs to the family of drugs called quinazolinone alkaloids.
hand-foot syndrome
A condition marked by pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, or redness of the hands or feet. It sometimes occurs as a side effect of certain anticancer drugs. Also known as palmar-plantar erythodysthesia.
Helicobacter pylori
H. pylori. Bacteria that cause inflammation and ulcers in the stomach.
hemangiopericytoma
A type of cancer involving blood vessels and soft tissue.
hematologic malignancies
Cancers of the blood or bone marrow, including leukemia and lymphoma. Also called hematologic cancers.
hematopoietic growth factors
A group of proteins that cause blood cells to grow and mature.
hematoporphyrin derivative
A drug used in photodynamic therapy that is absorbed by tumor cells. When exposed to light, it becomes active and kills the cancer cells.
hemoglobin
The substance inside red blood cells that carries oxygen molecules.
heparin
A drug that helps prevent blood clots from forming. It belongs to the family of drugs called anticoagulants (blood thinners).
hepatic arterial infusion
A procedure to deliver chemotherapy directly to the liver. Catheters are put into an artery in the groin that leads directly to the liver, and drugs are given through the catheters.
hepatic veno-occlusive disease
A condition in which some of the veins in the liver are blocked. It is sometimes a complication of high-dose chemotherapy given before a bone marrow transplant and is marked by increases in weight, liver size, and blood levels of bilirubin.
hepatic
Refers to the liver.
HER2/neu
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. The HER2/neu protein is involved in growth of some cancer cells. Also called c-erbB-2.
herba scutellaria barbatae
An herb used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat certain medical problems. It may have anticancer effects.
hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer
HNPCC. An inherited disorder in which affected individuals have a higher-than-normal chance of developing colon cancer and certain other types of cancer, usually before the age of 60. Also called Lynch syndrome.
heterogeneous
Made up of elements or ingredients that are not alike.
high-dose-rate remote radiation therapy
A type of internal radiation treatment in which the radioactive source is removed between treatments. Also called high-dose-rate remote brachytherapy or remote brachytherapy.
high-grade lymphomas
Includes large cell, immunoblastic, lymphoblastic, and small noncleaved cell lymphomas. These lymphomas grow quickly but have a better response to anticancer drugs than that seen with low-grade lymphomas.
high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion
HSIL. A precancerous condition in which the cells of the uterine cervix are moderately or severely abnormal.
high-risk cancer
Cancer that is likely to recur (come back), or spread.
histamine dihydrochloride
A drug being studied for its ability to enhance the effectiveness of IL-2 in treating acute myeloid leukemia.
histologic examination
The examination of tissue specimens under a microscope.
HIV antibody
A substance produced by certain white blood cells in reaction to contact with HIV, the human immunodeficiency virus.
Hiv
Human immunodeficiency virus, the cause of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Hodgkin's disease
A malignant disease of the lymphatic system that is characterized by painless enlargement of lymph nodes, the spleen, or other lymphatic tissue. It is sometimes accompanied by symptoms such as fever, weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats.
homeopathic remedies
Small doses of medicines, herbs, or both that are believed to stimulate the immune system.
homoharringtonine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the plant alkaloid family of drugs.
hormone therapy
Treatment that adds, blocks, or removes hormones. For certain conditions (such as diabetes or menopause), hormones are given to adjust low hormone levels. To slow or stop the growth of certain cancers (such as prostate and breast cancer), hormones may be given to block the body's natural hormones. Sometimes surgery is needed to remove the source of hormones. Also called hormonal therapy, hormone treatment, or endocrine therapy.
hormones
Chemicals produced by glands in the body and circulated in the bloodstream. Hormones control the actions of certain cells or organs.
Hpph
2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a. A drug that is used in photodynamic therapy that is absorbed by tumor cells; when exposed to light, it becomes active and kills the cancer cells.
Huang Lian
A Chinese herb that has been used as a treatment for a variety of medical problems. It is being studied as an anticancer drug.
human papillomavirus
HPV. A virus that causes abnormal tissue growth (warts) and is often associated with some types of cancer.
hydration
Combining with water.
hydrocephalus
The abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain.
hydrocortisone
A drug used to relieve the symptoms of certain hormone shortages and to suppress an immune response.
hydromorphone
A drug used to relieve pain.
hydroxychloroquine
A substance that decreases immune responses in the body. It is used to treat some autoimmune diseases, and is being studied as a treatment for graft-versus-host disease. Hydroxychloroquine belongs to the family of drugs called antiprotozoals.
hydroxyurea
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
hyperbaric oxygen
Oxygen that is at an atmospheric pressure higher than the pressure at sea level. Breathing hyperbaric oxygen to enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy is being studied.
hypercalcemia
Abnormally high blood calcium.
hypersensitivity
An exaggerated response by the immune system to a drug or other substance.
hyperthermic perfusion
A procedure in which a warmed solution containing anticancer drugs is used to bathe, or is passed through the blood vessels of, the tissue or organ containing the tumor.
hyperthyroidism
Too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include weight loss, chest pain, cramps, diarrhea, and nervousness. Also called overactive thyroid.
hyperuricemia
A buildup of uric acid (a byproduct of metabolism) in the blood; a side effect of some anticancer drugs.
hypervascular
Having a large number of blood vessels.
hysterectomy
An operation in which the uterus is removed.
Ici 182780
A drug that blocks estrogen activity in the body and is used in the therapy of estrogen-dependent tumors such as breast cancer.
idarubicin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics. Also called 4-demethoxydaunorubicin.
idoxuridine
A drug that reduces the risk of cancer cell growth by interfering with the cells' DNA.
ifosfamide
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
Ilx-295501
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called diarylsulfonylureas.
Ilx23-7553
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug.
imagery
A technique in which the person focuses on positive images in his or her mind.
imaging procedures
Methods of producing pictures of areas inside the body.
imatinib mesylate
A drug that is being studied for its ability to inhibit the growth of certain cancers. It interferes with a portion of the protein produced by the bcr/abl oncogene. Also called Gleevec and STI571.
imipenem
An antibiotic drug used to treat severe or very resistant infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called carbapenems.
imiquimod
A substance that improves the body's natural response to infection and disease. It is being studied as a topical agent (something used on the surface of the body) for the prevention of some types of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called biological response modifiers.
immune adjuvant
A drug that stimulates the immune system to respond to disease.
immune function
Production and action of cells that fight disease or infection.
immune response
The activity of the immune system against foreign substances (antigens).
immunocompetent
Having the ability to produce a normal immune response.
immunocompromised
Having a weakened immune system caused by certain diseases or treatments.
immunodeficiency syndrome
The inability of the body to produce an immune response.
immunoglobulin
A protein that acts as an antibody.
immunology
The study of the body's immune system.
immunoscintigraphy
An imaging procedure in which antibodies labeled with radioactive substances are given to the person. A picture is taken of sites in the body where the antibody localizes.
immunosuppression
Suppression of the body's immune system and its ability to fight infections or disease. Immunosuppression may be deliberately induced with drugs, as in preparation for bone marrow or other organ transplantation to prevent rejection of the donor tissue. It may also result from certain diseases such as AIDS or lymphoma or from anticancer drugs.
immunosuppressive therapy
Therapy used to decrease the body's immune response, such as drugs given to prevent transplant rejection.
immunotherapy
Treatment to stimulate or restore the ability of the immune system to fight infection and disease. Some immunotherapy agents may act directly on cancer cells to block
immunotoxin
An antibody linked to a toxic substance. Some immunotoxins can bind to cancer cells and kill them.
incomplete Freund's adjuvant
A drug used in vaccine therapy to stimulate the immune system.
indinavir
A drug that interferes with the ability of a virus to make copies of itself.
indole-3-carbinol
A substance that is being studied as a cancer prevention drug. It is found in cruciferous vegetables.
indomethacin
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Indomethacin reduces pain, fever, swelling, and redness. It is also being used to reduce tumor-induced suppression of the immune system and to increase the effectiveness of anticancer drugs.
infection
Invasion and multiplication of germs in the body. Infections can occur in any part of the body, and can be localized or systemic (spread throughout the body). The germs may be bacteria, viruses, yeast, or fungi. They can cause a fever and other problems, depending on the site of the infection. When the body's natural defense system is strong, it can often fight the germs and prevent infection. Cancer treatment can weaken the natural defense system.
infiltrating ductal carcinoma
The most common type of invasive breast cancer. It starts in the cells that line the milk ducts in the breast, grows outside the ducts, and often spreads to the lymph nodes.
inflammatory breast cancer
A type of breast cancer in which the breast looks red and swollen and feels warm. The skin of the breast may also show the pitted appearance called peau d'orange (like the skin of an orange). The redness and warmth occur because the cancer cells block the lymph vessels in the skin.
inherited
Transmitted through genes that have been passed from parents to their offspring (children).
interferon
A biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease). Interferons interfere with the division of cancer cells and can slow tumor growth. There are several types of interferons, including interferon-alpha, -beta, and -gamma. These substances are normally produced by the body. They are also made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases.
interleukin-11
IL-11. A type of biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease) that stimulates immune response and may reduce toxicity to the gastrointestinal system resulting from cancer therapy. These substances are normally produced by the body. They are also made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases. Also called oprelvekin.
interleukin-12
IL-12. A type of biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease) that enhances the ability of the immune system to kill tumor cells and may interfere with blood flow to the tumor. These substances are normally produced by the body. They are also made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases.
interleukin-2
IL-2. A type of biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease) that stimulates the growth of certain disease-fighting blood cells in the immune system. These substances are normally produced by the body. Aldesleukin is IL-2 that is made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases.
interleukin-3
IL-3. A type of biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease) that enhances the immune system's ability to fight tumor cells. These substances are normally produced by the body. They are also made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases.
interleukin-4 PE38KDEL cytotoxin
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called recombinant chimeric proteins. Also called NBI-3001.
interleukin-4
IL-4. A type of biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infection and disease) that enhances the immune system's ability to fight tumor cells. These substances are normally produced by the body. They are also made in the laboratory for use in treating cancer and other diseases.
intestinal villi
Tiny hair-like projections that line the inside of the small intestine. They contain blood vessels and help absorb nutrients.
intrahepatic bile ducts
The bile ducts that pass through and drain bile from the liver.
intraperitoneal radiation therapy
Treatment in which a radioactive liquid is put directly into the abdomen through a thin tube.
investigational
Being studied; experimental.
iododoxorubicin
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer, and for primary systemic amyloidosis (a disease in which proteins are deposited in specific organs). It belongs to the family of drugs called anthracycline analogues.
irinotecan
An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors. It is a camptothecin analogue. Also called CPT 11.
irradiated
Treated with radiation.
irreversible toxicity
Side effects that are caused by toxic substances or something harmful to the body and do not go away.
iseganan hydrochloride
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for oral mucositis (painful mouth sores) caused by cancer therapy. It belongs to the family of drugs called synthetic protegrin analogs.
Isis 2503
A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer.
isointense
Having the same intensity as another object. Used to describe the results of imaging tests, such as x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
isolated limb perfusion
A technique that may be used to deliver anticancer drugs directly to an arm or leg. The flow of blood to and from the limb is temporarily stopped with a tourniquet, and anticancer drugs are put directly into the blood of the limb. This allows the person to receive a high dose of drugs in the area where the cancer occurred. Also called limb perfusion.
isolated lung perfusion
A surgical procedure during which the circulation of blood to the lungs is separated from the circulation of blood through the rest of the body, and a drug is delivered directly into the lung circulation. This allows a higher concentration of chemotherapy to reach tumors in the lungs.
isotretinoin
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called retinoids. It is used in the treatment of acne and psoriasis and is being studied in cancer prevention. Also called 13-cis retinoic acid.
itraconazole
A drug used to prevent or treat fungal infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called antifungal agents.
Iu
International unit. A unit of measurement based on the International System of Units. This system defines units to measure length, time, mass, electric current, temperature, light intensity, and the amount of a substance. It can be used to express measurements of fat-soluble vitamins and some hormones, enzymes, and drugs.
J-107088
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase I inhibitors.
juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia
A rare form of childhood leukemia in which cancer cells often spread into tissues such as the skin, lung, and intestines.
Kaposi's sarcoma
A type of cancer characterized by the abnormal growth of blood vessels that develop into skin lesions or occur internally.
karenitecin
A drug being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to a family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors. It is related to the anticancer drug camptothecin.
ketoconazole
A drug that treats infection caused by a fungus. It is also used as a treatment for prostate cancer because it can block the production of male sex hormones.
ketorolac
A drug that belongs to a family of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. It is being studied in cancer prevention.
keyhole limpet hemocyanin
KLH. One of a group of drugs called immune modulators, given as a vaccine to help the body respond to cancer.
Krn5500
An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics. It is an anthracycline.
L-377,202
A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer.
lamina propria
A type of connective tissue found under the thin layer of tissues covering a mucous membrane.
lamivudine
A drug used to treat infection caused by viruses.
laparoscopy
The insertion of a thin, lighted tube (called a laparoscope) through the abdominal wall to inspect the inside of the abdomen and remove tissue samples.
large intestine
The long, tube-like organ that is connected to the small intestine and rectum. The large intestine removes water and some nutrients and electrolytes from digested food. The remaining material, solid waste called stool, moves through the large intestine to the rectum and leaves the body through the anus. Also called the colon.
laser therapy
The use of an intensely powerful beam of light to kill cancer cells.
leflunomide
An anticancer drug that works by inhibiting a cancer cell growth factor. Also called SU101.
leiomyoma
A benign smooth muscle tumor, usually in the uterus or gastrointestinal tract. Also called fibroid.
leptomeningeal metastases
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord.
lerisetron
A drug that prevents or reduces nausea and vomiting.
letrozole
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors. Letrozole is used to decrease estrogen production and suppress the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors.
leukapheresis
Removal of the blood to collect specific blood cells; the remaining blood is returned to the body.
leukemia
Cancer of blood-forming tissue.
leuprolide
A drug that belongs to a family of drugs called gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues. It is used to block hormone production in the ovaries or testicles.
leuvectin
An agent that delivers the gene for interleukin-2 (IL-2) into cells to increase production of IL-2 by the cells.
levamisole
An antiparasitic drug that is also being studied in cancer therapy with fluorouracil.
levofloxacin
A substance used to treat bacterial infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called quinolone antibiotics.
lisofylline
A drug that may protect healthy cells from chemotherapy and radiation without inhibiting the effects of these therapies on tumor cells.
liver metastases
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the liver.
LMB-7 immunotoxin
A toxic substance linked to an antibody that attaches to tumor cells and kills them.
lobaplatin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called platinum compounds.
localized gallbladder cancer
Cancer found only in the tissues that make up the wall of the gallbladder. Localized gallbladder cancer can be removed completely in an operation.
lometrexol
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called antifolates.
losoxantrone
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antipyrazoles.
Lu 79553
An anticancer drug that kills cancer cells by affecting DNA synthesis.
Lu-103793
An anticancer drug that reduces the risk of tumor cell growth and reproduction.
lung metastases
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the lung.
lupus
A chronic inflammatory connective tissue disease marked by skin rashes, joint pain and swelling, inflammation of the kidneys, inflammation of the fibrous tissue surrounding the heart (i.e., the pericardium), as well as other problems. Not all affected individuals display all of these problems. Also called systemic lupus erythematosus.
lurtotecan
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors.
lutetium texaphyrin
A substance that is being studied in photodynamic therapy. It belongs to the family of drugs called metallotexaphyrins.
Ly293111
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called leukotriene B4 receptor antagonists.
lycopene
A red pigment found in tomatoes and some fruits.
lymphedema
A condition in which excess fluid collects in tissue and causes swelling. It may occur in the arm or leg after lymph vessels or lymph nodes in the underarm or groin are removed or treated with radiation.
lymphography
An x-ray study of lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels made visible by the injection of a special dye.
lymphokine-activated killer cells
White blood cells that are stimulated in a laboratory to kill tumor cells. Also called LAK cells.
lymphoma
Cancer that arises in cells of the lymphatic system.
lymphoscintigraphy
A method used to identify the sentinel lymph node (the first draining lymph node near a tumor). A radioactive substance that can be taken up by lymph nodes is injected at the site of the tumor, and a doctor follows the movement of this substance on a computer screen. Once the lymph nodes that have taken up the substance are identified, they can be removed and examined to see if they contain tumor cells.
Lynch syndrome
An inherited disorder in which affected individuals have a higher-than-normal chance of developing colon cancer and certain other types of cancer, usually before the age of 60. Also called hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer.
lytic
Having to do with lysis. In biology, lysis refers to the disintegration of a cell by disruption of its plasma membrane. Lysis can be caused by chemical or physical means (e.g., high-energy sound waves) or by a virus infection.
mafosfamide
A form of cyclophosphamide that can be administered as an intrathecal infusion. Mafosfamide is being studied as an anticancer drug. It belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
Mage-3
A gene found in some types of tumors.
magnetic-targeted carriers
Tiny beads made from particles of iron and carbon that can be attached to an anticancer drug. A magnet applied from outside the body then can direct the drug to the tumor site. This can keep a larger dose of the drug at the tumor site for a longer period of time, and help protect healthy tissue from the side effects of chemotherapy.
malignant ascites
A condition in which fluid containing cancer cells collects in the abdomen.
malignant mesothelioma
A rare type of cancer in which malignant cells are found in the sac lining the chest or abdomen. Exposure to airborne asbestos particles increases one's risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
marimastat
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors. Marimastat is a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor.
mast cell
A type of white blood cell.
Mdl 101,731
A drug that belongs to a family of drugs called ribonucleotide reductase inhibitors.
median
A statistics term. The middle value in a set of measurements.
medroxyprogesterone
A hormonal anticancer drug that is also used in cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called progestins.
meiosis
A special form of cell division in which each daughter cell receives half the amount of DNA as the parent cell. Meiosis occurs during formation of egg and sperm cells in mammals.
melanoma
A form of skin cancer that arises in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment. Melanoma usually begins in a mole.
Men-10755
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
mesna
A drug that helps protect the kidneys and bladder from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs such as ifosfamide and cyclophosphamide.
metastatic cancer
Cancer that has spread from the place in which it started to other parts of the body.
metasynchronous
Occurring at nearly the same time.
methotrexate
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
methoxsalen
A drug used in ultraviolet light therapy.
methyl-5-aminolevulinate
A drug used in photodynamic therapy; it is absorbed by tumor cells and, when exposed to light, becomes active and kills the cancer cells.
methylphenidate
A drug that is a central nervous system stimulant.
methylprednisolone
A corticosteroid hormone replacement.
metoclopramide
A drug that prevents or reduces nausea and vomiting.
metronidazole
A drug used to treat bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. It is also being studied in the treatment of some cancers.
mifepristone
An anticancer drug that blocks the action of progesterone, a hormone that affects the growth of some cancers.
misoprostol
A radioprotective agent that belongs to the family of drugs called prostaglandins.
mistletoe lectin
A substance that comes from the mistletoe plant and that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. A lectin is a complex molecule that has both protein and sugars. Lectins are able to bind to the outside of a cell and cause biochemical changes in it. Lectins are made by both animals and plants.
mitolactol
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
mitomycin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
mitosis
The process of division of somatic cells in which each daughter cell receives the same amount of DNA as the parent cell.
mitotane
An anticancer drug used in treating adrenocortical cancer and ACTH-producing pituitary tumors (Cushing's disease).
mitotic activity
Having to do with the presence of dividing (proliferating) cells. Cancerous tissue generally has more mitotic activity than normal tissues.
mitoxantrone
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
mixed gliomas
Brain tumors that occur in more than one type of brain cell, including astrocytes, ependymal cells, and oligodendrocytes.
molecule
A chemical made up of two or more atoms. The atoms in a molecule can be the same (an oxygen molecule has two oxygen atoms) or different (a water molecule has two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom). Biological molecules such as proteins and DNA can be made up of many thousands of atoms.
monoclonal antibody 3F8
A type of monoclonal antibody used in cancer detection or therapy. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells.
morphine
A narcotic drug used in the treatment of pain.
motexafin gadolinium
A substance that makes tumor cells more sensitive to radiation; it can also enhance tumor images using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Motexafin gadolinium belongs to the family of drugs called metalloporphyrin complexes. Also called gadolinium texaphyrin.
Ms 209
A substance that is being studied for its ability to make cancer cells respond better to chemotherapy drugs to which they have become resistant. It belongs to the family of drugs called quinolone antibiotics.
Ms-275
A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancers of the blood . It belongs to the family of drugs called histone deacetylase inhibitors.
multicenter study
A clinical trial that is carried out at more than one medical institution.
musculoskeletal
Having to do with muscles, bones, and cartilage.
mycophenolate mofetil
A drug that is being studied for its effectiveness in preventing graft-versus-host disease and autoimmune disorders.
myelodysplastic syndrome
Disease in which the bone marrow does not function normally. Also called preleukemia or smoldering leukemia.
myeloproliferative disorders
Diseases in which too many blood cells are made in the bone marrow.
naloxone
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for constipation caused by narcotic medications. It belongs to the family of drugs called narcotic antagonists.
Nb1011
A substance that is being studied for its ability to make cancer cells respond to drugs to which they have become resistant. It belongs to the family of drugs called nucleoside analogues.
nelfinavir mesylate
A drug that interferes with the ability of a virus to make copies of itself.
neuroblastoma
Cancer that arises in immature nerve cells and affects mostly infants and children.
neuroendocrine tumor
A tumor derived from cells that release a hormone in response to a signal from the nervous system. Some examples of neuroendocrine tumors are carcinoid tumors, islet cell tumors, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and pheochromocytoma. These tumors secrete hormones in excess, causing a variety of symptoms.
neuroepithelial
Having to do with tissue made up of sensory cells, such as tissue found in the ear, nose, and tongue.
neurofibromatosis type 1
NF1. A rare genetic condition that causes brown spots and tumors on the skin, freckling in skin areas not exposed to the sun, tumors on the nerves, and developmental changes in the nervous system, muscles, bone, and skin.
neurofibroma
A benign tumor that develops from the cells and tissues that cover nerves.
neurotoxicity
The tendency of some treatments to cause damage to the nervous system.
neutropenia
An abnormal decrease in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell.
NG-monomethyl-L-arginine
An amino acid derivative used to counteract high blood pressure caused by interleukin-2.
niacinamide
A vitamin being studied to increase the effect of radiation therapy on tumor cells. Also called nicotinamide.
nilutamide
A drug that blocks the effects of male hormones in the body. It belongs to the family of drugs called antiandrogens.
nimodipine
Belongs to a family of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It is being investigated for use with anticancer drugs to prevent or overcome drug resistance and improve response to chemotherapy.
nitrocamptothecin
An alkaloid drug belonging to a class of anticancer agents called topoisomerase inhibitors.
node-positive
Cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes.
nodular parenchyma
A small mass of tissue within a gland or organ that carries out the specialized functions of the gland or organ.
non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
A group of cancers of the lymphoid system, including acute lymphoblastic leukemia, B-cell lymphoma, Burkitt's lymphoma, diffuse cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, immunoblastic large cell lymphoma, lymphoblastic lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, mycosis fungoides, post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder, small non-cleaved cell lymphoma, and T-cell lymphoma.
non-small cell lung cancer
A group of lung cancers that includes squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
nonhematologic cancer
Cancer that does not begin in the blood or bone marrow.
nonlytic
In biology, refers to viruses that do not kill infected cells by disrupting their plasma membranes.
nonmalignant hematologic disorders
Disorders of the blood, some of which lead to leukemia.
nonsmall cell adenocarcinoma
A type of cancer that begins in the glandular cells that line certain internal organs and most commonly affects the lungs. It is diagnosed by the way the cells appear under a microscope.
nonspecific immune cells
Cells such as phagocytes and macrophages that respond to many antigens, not just one antigen.
nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors
A family of drugs that decrease the production of sex hormones (estrogen or testosterone) and slow the growth of tumors that need sex hormones to grow.
novobiocin
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection.
nuclear grade
An evaluation of the size and shape of the nucleus in tumor cells and the percentage of tumor cells that are in the process of dividing or growing. Cancers with low nuclear grade grow and spread less quickly than cancers with high nuclear grade.
nystatin
A drug that treats infections caused by fungi.
oblimersen
A drug that may kill cancer cells by blocking the production of a protein that makes cancer cells live longer. Also called bcl-2 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide G3139 and augmerosen.
obstruction
Blockage of a passageway.
octreotide
A drug similar to the naturally occurring growth hormone inhibitor somatostatin. Octreotide is used to treat diarrhea and flushing associated with certain types of tumors.
ofloxacin
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called quinolone antibiotics.
oltipraz
A drug used in cancer prevention.
omentectomy
Surgery to remove part or all of the omentum.
omentum
A fold of the peritoneum (the thin tissue that lines the abdomen) that surrounds the stomach and other organs in the abdomen.
omeprazole
A drug that inhibits gastric acid secretion.
oncology
The study of cancer.
oncolytic
Refers to viruses that kill cancer cells more often than they kill normal cells.
ondansetron
A drug that prevents or reduces nausea and vomiting. It belongs to the family of drugs called antiemetics.
oophorectomy
Surgery to remove one or both ovaries.
opioids
A family of synthetic drugs used to treat moderate to severe pain. They are similar to opiates such as morphine and codeine.
orchiectomy
Surgery to remove one or both testicles.
osteoporosis
A condition that is characterized by a decrease in bone mass and density, causing bones to become fragile.
osteosarcoma
A cancer of the bone that usually affects the large bones of the arm or leg. It occurs most commonly in young people and affects more males than females. Also called osteogenic sarcoma.
ovarian
Having to do with the ovaries, the female reproductive glands in which the ova (eggs) are formed. The ovaries are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus.
ovulation
The release of an egg from an ovary during the menstrual cycle.
oxaliplatin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called platinum compounds.
P-30 protein
An anticancer drug that may inhibit cancer cell growth.
P-32
A radioactive form of phosphorus used in the treatment of cancer.
p-value
A statistics term. A measure of probability that a difference between groups during an experiment happened by chance. For example, a p-value of .01 (p = .01) means there is a 1 in 100 chance the result occurred by chance. The lower the p-value, the more likely it is that the difference between groups was caused by treatment.
paclitaxel
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors.
Pala
An anticancer drug that is being studied to increase the effectiveness of the chemotherapy drug fluorouracil.
palmar-plantar erythodysthesia
A condition marked by pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, or redness of the hands or feet. It sometimes occurs as a side effect of certain anticancer drugs. Also known as hand-foot syndrome.
pamidronate
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called bisphosphonates. Pamidronate is used as treatment for abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood.
pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas. Chronic pancreatitis may cause diabetes and problems with digestion. Pain is the primary symptom.
Pap smear
The collection of cells from the cervix for examination under a microscope. It is used to detect changes that may be cancer or may lead to cancer, and can show noncancerous conditions, such as infection or inflammation. Also called a Pap test.
papillary serous carcinoma
An aggressive cancer that usually affects the uterus/endometrium, peritoneum, or ovary.
parotidectomy
Surgery to remove all or part of the parotid gland (a large salivary gland located in front of and just below the ear). In a radical parotidectomy, the entire gland is removed.
paroxetine hydrochloride
An antidepressant drug.
partial mastectomy
The removal of a cancer as well as some of the breast tissue around the tumor and the lining over the chest muscles below the tumor. Usually some of the lymph nodes under the arm are also taken out. Also called segmental mastectomy.
pedigree
A record of one's ancestors, offspring, siblings, and their offspring that may be used to determine the pattern of certain genes or disease inheritance within a family.
pegaspargase
A modified form of asparaginase, an anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs derived from enzymes.
peldesine
A substance that is being studied for the treatment of cancer.
pelvic
Having to do with the pelvis (the lower part of the abdomen located between the hip bones).
pemetrexed disodium
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called enzyme inhibitors. Also called LY231514.
penclomedine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
penicillamine
A drug that removes copper from the body and is used to treat diseases in which there is an excess of this metal. It is also being studied as a possible angiogenesis inhibitor in brain tumors.
penicillin
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection.
pentetic acid calcium
A drug that protects healthy tissues from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs.
pentosan polysulfate
A drug used to relieve pain or discomfort associated with chronic inflammation of the bladder. It is also being evaluated for its protective effects on the gastrointestinal tract in people undergoing radiation therapy.
pentostatin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
pentoxifylline
A drug used to prevent blood clotting and as a treatment that may help decrease weight loss in people with cancer.
perfusion magnetic resonance imaging
A type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used to check the flow of blood to normal tissue and diseased tissue.
perillyl alcohol
A drug used in cancer prevention that belongs to the family of plant drugs called monoterpenes.
peripheral blood lymphocyte therapy
A treatment for Epstein-Barr virus infection or overgrowth of white blood cells (lymphocytes) after an organ or bone marrow transplant. Specific lymphocytes from a sibling donor are infused into the patient to try and reverse these conditions.
peritoneal
Having to do with the peritoneum (the tissue that lines the abdominal wall and covers most of the organs in the abdomen).
phenethyl isothiocyanate
PEITC. A naturally occurring compound found in some cruciferous vegetables. It is being studied as an agent to prevent cancer.
phenobarbital
A sedative/anticonvulsant barbiturate that has been used to treat diarrhea and to increase the antitumor effect of other therapies.
phenoxodiol
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called signal transduction inhibitors.
phenylacetate
A drug being studied in the treatment of cancer.
phenylbutyrate
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called differentiating agents.
phosphorus-32
A radioactive form of phosphorus used in the treatment of cancer. It is also used to help locate areas of DNA damage.
photodynamic therapy
Treatment with drugs that become active when exposed to light. These drugs kill cancer cells.
pilocarpine
A drug used to increase salivation in people who have dry mouth caused by opioids or radiation therapy. Pilocarpine belongs to the family of drugs called alkaloids.
pineal body
A tiny organ located in the brain that produces melatonin, a hormone that plays an important role in the sleep-wake cycle. Also called pineal body or pineal organ.
pineal organ
A tiny organ located in the brain that produces melatonin, a hormone that plays an important role in the sleep-wake cycle. Also called pineal body or pineal organ.
pirfenidone
A substance that is being studied in the prevention and treatment of scar tissue caused by radiation therapy. It belongs to the family of drugs called anti-inflammatory agents.
piritrexim
An anticancer drug.
placebo-controlled
Refers to a clinical study in which the control patients receive a placebo.
placental blood transplantation
The transfer of blood from a placenta to an individual whose own blood production system is suppressed. Placental blood contains high levels of stem cells needed to produce new blood cells. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer and severe blood disorders such as aplastic anemia. Also called umbilical cord blood transplant.
placenta
The organ that nourishes the developing fetus in the uterus.
plasmacytic
Having to do with plasma cells (a type of white blood cells).
plasmapheresis
The process of separating certain cells from the plasma in the blood by a machine; only the cells are returned to the person. Plasmapheresis can be used to remove excess antibodies from the blood.
plexiform neurofibroma
A nerve that has become thick and misshapen due to the abnormal growth of cells and tissues that cover the nerve.
pluripotent stem cells
Cells that are able to develop into several different types of cells or tissues in the body.
pluripotent
Able to mature or develop in any of several ways.
pneumonia
An inflammatory infection that occurs in the lung.
polymerase chain reaction
PCR. A laboratory method used to make many copies of a specific DNA sequence.
polymorphism
A common variation or mutation in DNA.
porfimer sodium
An anticancer drug that is also used in cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called photosensitizing agents.
porfiromycin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called anticancer antibiotics.
portal vein
A blood vessel that carries blood from the digestive organs and the spleen to the liver.
port
An implanted device through which blood may be withdrawn and drugs may be infused without repeated needle sticks. Also called a port-a-cath.
postmenopausal
Refers to the time after menopause. Menopause is the time in a woman's life when menstrual periods stop permanently; also called "change of life."
prednisone
Belongs to the family of drugs called steroids and is used to treat several types of cancer and other disorders. Prednisone also inhibits the body's immune response.
preleukemia
A disease in which the bone marrow does not function normally. Also called myelodysplastic syndrome or smoldering leukemia.
premenopausal
Refers to the time before menopause. Menopause is the time of life when a women's menstrual periods stop permanently; also called "change of life."
primary central nervous system lymphoma
Cancer that arises in the lymphoid tissue found in the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord.
probenecid
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called antibiotic therapy adjuncts.
procarbazine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
prochlorperazine
A drug that prevents or reduces nausea and vomiting. It belongs to the family of drugs called antiemetics.
progesterone receptor negative
PR-. Breast cancer cells that do not have a protein (receptor molecule) to which progesterone will attach. Breast cancer cells that are PR- do not need the hormone progesterone to grow and usually do not respond to hormonal therapy.
progesterone receptor positive
PR+. Breast cancer cells that have a protein (receptor molecule) to which progesterone will attach. Breast cancer cells that are PR+ need the hormone progesterone to grow and will usually respond to hormonal therapy.
progesterone
A female hormone.
progression-free survival
One type of measurement that can be used in a clinical study or trial to help determine whether a new treatment is effective. It refers to the probability that a patient will remain alive, without the disease getting worse.
proliferative index
A measure of the number of cells in a tumor that are dividing (proliferating). May be used with the S-phase fraction to give a more complete understanding of how fast a tumor is growing.
prolymphocytic leukemia
PLL. A type of chronic lymphocyctic leukemia (CLL), in which too many immature white blood cells (prolymphocytes) are found in the blood and bone marrow. PLL usually progresses more rapidly than classic CLL.
prophylactic oophorectomy
Surgery intended to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by removing the ovaries before disease develops.
prophylactic surgery
Surgery to remove an organ or gland that shows no signs of cancer, in an attempt to prevent development of cancer of that organ or gland. Prophylactic surgery is sometimes chosen by people who know they are at high risk for developing cancer.
Psa
Prostate-specific antigen. A substance produced by the prostate that may be found in an increased amount in the blood of men who have prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or infection or inflammation of the prostate.
Psc 833
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called cyclosporine analogues. It is used with chemotherapy to prevent or overcome the resistance of tumor cells to some anticancer drugs.
psoralen
A substance that binds to the DNA in cells and stops them from multiplying. It is being studied in the treatment of graft-versus-host disease and is used in the treatment of psoriasis and vitiligo.
pyrazine diazohydroxide
An anticancer drug.
pyrazoloacridine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called acridines.
Qs21
A plant extract that may improve the ability of the immune system to respond to disease. It is being studied in combination with vaccine therapy.
quality of life
The overall enjoyment of life. Many clinical trials measure aspects of an individual's sense of well-being and ability to perform various tasks to assess the effects of cancer and its treatment on the quality of life.
R101933
A substance that is being studied for its ability to make cancer cells respond to drugs to which they have become resistant. It belongs to the family of drugs called multidrug resistance inhibitors.
R115777
An anticancer drug that inhibits the transformation of normal cells to cancer cells. It belongs to the family of drugs called enzyme inhibitors.
radiation therapy
The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation may come from a machine outside the body (external-beam radiation therapy), or from materials called radioisotopes. Radioisotopes produce radiation and can be placed in or near the tumor or in the area near cancer cells. This type of radiation treatment is called internal radiation therapy, implant radiation, interstitial radiation, or brachytherapy. Systemic radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance, such as a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that circulates throughout the body. Also called radiotherapy, irradiation, and x-ray therapy.
radiation
Energy released in the form of particles or electromagnetic waves. Common sources of radiation include radon gas, cosmic rays from outer space, and medical x-rays.
radiofrequency ablation
The use of electrodes to heat and destroy abnormal tissue.
radioimmunoguided surgery
A procedure that uses radiolabeled substances to detect tumors for surgical removal.
radioimmunotherapy
Treatment with a radioactive substance that is linked to an antibody that will attach to the tumor when injected into the body.
radiology
The use of radiation (such as x-rays) or other imaging technologies (such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging) to diagnose or treat disease.
radiosensitization
The use of a drug that makes tumor cells more sensitive to radiation therapy.
raltitrexed
An anticancer drug that inhibits tumor cells from multiplying by interfering with cells' ability to make DNA. Also called ICI D1694.
receptor
A molecule inside or on the surface of a cell that binds to a specific substance and causes a specific physiologic effect in the cell.
renal cell cancer
Cancer that develops in the lining of the renal tubules, which filter the blood and produce urine.
renal fascia
A fibrous envelope of tissue that surrounds the kidney. Also called Gerota's fascia.
resistance
Failure of a cancer to shrink after treatment.
respiratory syncytial virus
RSV. A virus that causes respiratory infections with cold-like symptoms.
respiratory therapy
Exercises and treatments that help improve or restore lung function.
retrospective study
A study that looks backward in time, usually using medical records and interviews with patients who already have or had a disease.
rhizoxin
An anticancer drug isolated from a fungus. It is similar to the family of drugs called vinca alkaloids.
ribavirin
A drug used to treat respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in the lungs.
ritonavir
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called protease inhibitors. It interferes with the ability of a virus to make copies of itself.
rituximab
A type of monoclonal antibody used in cancer detection or therapy. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells.
Rmp-7
A substance that is being studied for its ability to help other drugs reach the brain. It belongs to the family of drugs called bradykinin agonists. Also called lobradimil.
rofecoxib
A substance used for pain relief that is also being studied for its ability to prevent cancer and to block the growth of new blood vessels to solid tumors. It belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
rosiglitazone
A drug taken to help reduce the amount of sugar in the blood. Rosiglitazone helps make insulin more effective and improves regulation of blood sugar. It belongs to the family of drugs called thiazolidinediones.
Rpi.4610
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors.
Rpr 109881a
A drug that belongs to the family of anticancer drugs called taxanes.
Rsr13
A drug that may increase the effectiveness of radiation therapy.
Rsv
Respiratory syncytial virus. A virus that causes respiratory infections with cold-like symptoms.
S-phase fraction
A measure of the percentage of cells in a tumor that are in the phase of the cell cycle during which DNA is synthesized. The S-phase fraction may be used with the proliferative index to give a more complete understanding of how fast a tumor is growing.
saquinavir mesylate
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called protease inhibitors. It interferes with the ability of a virus to make copies of itself.
sarcoma
A cancer of the bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue.
sargramostim
A colony-stimulating factor that stimulates the production of white blood cells, especially granulocytes and macrophages, and cells (in the bone marrow) that are precursors of platelets. It is a cytokine that belongs to the family of drugs called hematopoietic (blood-forming) agents. Also called granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF).
Sc-70935
A substance that is being studied for its ability to stimulate the production of blood cells during chemotherapy. It belongs to the family of drugs called colony-stimulating factors. Also known as leridistim.
Sch-58500
A drug that inhibits the growth of tumor cells that express the mutated p53 gene.
seizures
Convulsions; sudden, involuntary movements of the muscles.
selenium
An essential dietary mineral.
sentinel lymph node mapping
The use of dyes and radioactive substances to identify the first lymph node to which cancer is likely to spread from the primary tumor. Cancer cells may appear first in the sentinel node before spreading to other lymph nodes and other places in the body.
septicemia
Disease caused by the spread of bacteria and their toxins in the bloodstream. Also called blood poisoning.
Sgn-15
A substance that combines a monoclonal antibody with the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin. The monoclonal antibody helps deliver doxorubicin directly to tumor cells. SGN-15 belongs to the family of drugs called antibody drug conjugates.
sham therapy
An inactive treatment or procedure that is intended to mimic as closely as possible a therapy in a clinical trial. Also called placebo therapy.
signal transduction inhibitors
A family of drugs that may prevent the ability of cancer cells to multiply quickly and invade other tissues.
simple mastectomy
Removal of the breast. Also called total mastectomy.
sirolimus
A drug used to help prevent rejection of organ and bone marrow transplants by the body.
small cell lung cancer
A type of lung cancer in which the cells appear small and round when viewed under the microscope. Also called oat cell lung cancer.
Smt-487
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called somatostatin analogs.
soft diet
A diet consisting of bland foods that are softened by cooking, mashing, pureeing, or blending.
solid tumor
Cancer of body tissues other than blood, bone marrow, or the lymphatic system.
spiral CT scan
A detailed picture of areas inside the body. The pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine that scans the body in a spiral path. Also called helical computed tomography.
St. John's wort
Hypericum perforatum, an herbal product sold as an over-the-counter treatment for depression. It is being studied for its ability to lessen certain side effects of cancer treatment.
stage 0 chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Too many lymphocytes are in the blood but there are usually no other symptoms of leukemia.
stage I anal cancer
Cancer that has spread beyond the top layer of anal tissue and is smaller than 2 centimeters (smaller than 1 inch).
stage I bladder cancer
Cancer that has spread into the inner lining of the bladder but not to the muscular wall of the bladder.
stage I breast cancer
Cancer no bigger than 2 centimeters (about 1 inch) that has not spread outside the breast.
stage I chronic lymphocytic leukemia
The blood has too many lymphocytes, and lymph nodes are swollen.
stage I endometrial cancer
Cancer found in only the main part of the uterus, not the cervix.
stage I laryngeal cancer
Cancer that is only in the area where it started and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. The exact definition of stage I depends on whether the cancer started in the supraglottis (cancer in only one area of the supraglottis, and the vocal cords can move normally); the glottis (cancer in only the vocal cords, and the vocal cords can move normally); or the subglottis (cancer that has not spread outside the subglottis).
stage I lip and oral cavity cancer
Cancer that is no larger than 2 centimeters (about 1 inch) and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes.
stage I melanoma
Cancer found in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), the upper part of the inner layer of skin (dermis), or both but not in nearby lymph nodes. The tumor is no thicker than 1.5 millimeters (about 1/16 of an inch).
stage I multiple myeloma
Relatively few cancer cells have spread throughout the body. There may be no symptoms of disease.
stage I non-small cell lung cancer
Cancer in the lung only and not in tissue around the lung.
stage I pancreatic cancer
Cancer that is found only in the pancreas itself or has started to spread to the tissues next to the pancreas (such as the small intestine, the stomach, or the bile duct).
stage I prostate cancer
Cancer that is only in the prostate gland, cannot be felt during a digital rectal examination, is not visible by imaging, and causes no symptoms. It is usually found accidentally or because a blood test showed an elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level. Cancer cells may be found in only one area of the prostate, or they may be found in many areas of the prostate. Similar to stage A in the Whitmore-Jewett staging system.
stage I testicular cancer
Cancer that is found in the testicle only or has spread into the scrotum.
stage II anal cancer
Cancer that has spread beyond the top layer of anal tissue and is larger than 2 centimeters (about 1 inch) but has not spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
stage II bladder cancer
Cancer that has spread to the muscular wall of the bladder.
stage II breast cancer
Stage II breast cancer means one of the following: cancer is no larger than 2 centimeters but has spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit (the axillary lymph nodes); cancer is between 2 and 5 centimeters (1 to 2 inches) and may have spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit; cancer is larger than 5 centimeters (2 inches) but has not spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit.
stage II chronic lymphocytic leukemia
The blood has too many lymphocytes, and the liver or spleen is swollen.
stage II endometrial cancer
Cancer that has spread to the cervix.
stage II laryngeal cancer
Cancer that is found in the larynx only and has not spread to lymph nodes in the area or to other parts of the body. The exact definition of stage II depends on whether the cancer started in the supraglottis (cancer is in more than one area of the supraglottis, but the vocal cords can move normally); the glottis (cancer has spread to the supraglottis, the subglottis, or both, and the vocal cords may not be able to move normally); or the subglottis (cancer has spread to the vocal cords, which may not be able to move normally).
stage II lip and oral cavity cancer
Cancer that is larger than 2 centimeters (about 1 inch) but smaller than 4 centimeters (about 2 inches) and has not spread to lymph nodes in the area.
stage II melanoma
Tumor that is 1.5 to 4 millimeters (less than 1/4 inch) thick and has spread to the lower part of the inner layer of skin (dermis), but not into the tissue below the skin or into nearby lymph nodes.
stage II multiple myeloma
Cancer in which a moderate number of cancer cells have spread throughout the body.
stage II non-small cell lung cancer
Cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
stage II pancreatic cancer
Cancer that has spread to nearby organs such as the stomach, spleen, or colon but has not entered the lymph nodes.
stage II prostate cancer
Cancer that may be found by a needle biopsy performed because a blood test showed elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA); or cancer that may be felt in the prostate during a rectal examination, even though the cancer cells are found only in the prostate gland. Similar to stage B in the Whitmore-Jewett staging system.
stage II testicular cancer
Cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the abdomen.
stage III anal cancer
Stage III anal cancer is divided into stage IIIA and IIIB. Stage IIIA anal cancer has spread to the lymph nodes around the rectum or to nearby organs such as the vagina or bladder. Stager IIIB cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the middle of the abdomen or in the groin, or the cancer has spread to both nearby organs and the lymph nodes around the rectum.
stage III bladder cancer
Cancer cells have spread throughout the muscular wall of the bladder, to the layer of tissue surrounding the bladder, and/or to the nearby reproductive organs.
stage III breast cancer
Stage III is divided into stages IIIA and IIIB. In stage IIIA breast cancer, the cancer (1) is smaller than 5 centimeters (2 inches) and has spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit, which have grown into each other or into other structures and are attached to them; or (2) is larger than 5 centimeters and has spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit. In stage IIIB breast cancer, the cancer (1) has spread to tissues near the breast (skin, chest wall, including the ribs and the muscles in the chest); or (2) has spread to lymph nodes inside the chest wall along the breast bone.
stage III chronic lymphocytic leukemia
There are too many lymphocytes in the blood, and there are too few red blood cells (anemia). Lymph nodes, liver, or spleen may be swollen.
stage III cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
Nearly all of the skin is red, dry, and scaly; lymph nodes are either normal or enlarged but do not contain cancer cells.
stage III endometrial cancer
Cancer cells have spread outside the uterus to the vagina and/or lymph nodes in the pelvis but have not spread outside the pelvis.
stage III laryngeal cancer
The cancer has not spread outside of the larynx, but the vocal cords cannot move normally, or the cancer has spread to tissues next to the larynx; or the cancer has spread to one lymph node on the same side of the neck as the original tumor, and the lymph node measures no larger than 3 centimeters (just over 1 inch).
stage III lip and oral cavity cancer
The cancer is larger than 4 centimeters (about 2 inches); or the cancer is any size but has spread to only one lymph node on the same side of the neck as the cancer. The lymph node that contains cancer is no larger than 3 centimeters (just over one inch).
stage III melanoma
Stage III melanoma is defined by any of the following: 1) the tumor is more than 4 millimeters (1/4 inch) thick; 2) the tumor has spread to the body tissue below the skin; 3) there are additional tumor growths within 2 centimeters (3/4 inch) of the original tumor (satellite tumors); or 4) the tumor has spread to nearby lymph nodes or there are additional tumor growths (satellite tumors) between the original tumor and the lymph nodes in the area.
stage III multiple myeloma
A relatively large number of cancer cells have spread throughout the body. There may be one or more of the following: 1) a decrease in the number of red blood cells, causing anemia; 2) the amount of calcium in the blood is very high, because the bones are being damaged; 3) more than three bone tumors (plasmacytomas) are found; or 4) high levels of M protein are found in the blood or urine.
stage III non-small cell lung cancer
Cancer has spread to structures near the lung; to the lymph nodes in the area that separates the two lungs
stage III pancreatic cancer
Cancer of the pancreas in which the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes near the pancreas. Cancer may have spread to nearby organs.
stage III prostate cancer
Cancer cells have spread outside the covering (capsule) of the prostate to tissues around the prostate but not to the lymph nodes. The glands that produce semen (the seminal vesicles) may have cancer cells in them. Similar to stage C in the Whitmore-Jewett staging system.
stage III testicular cancer
Cancer has spread beyond the lymph nodes in the abdomen. There may be cancer in parts of the body far away from the testicles.
stage IIIA breast cancer
Stage IIIA breast cancer is defined by either of the following: (1) the cancer is smaller than 5 centimeters (2 inches) and has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm, which have grown into each other or into other structures and are attached to them; (2) the cancer is larger than 5 centimeters and has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm.
stage IIIB breast cancer
Stage IIIB breast cancer is defined by either of the following: (1) the cancer has spread to tissues near the breast (skin, chest wall, including the ribs and the muscles in the chest); (2) the cancer has spread to lymph nodes inside the chest wall along the breast bone.
stage IV bladder cancer
Cancer cells have spread to the wall of the abdomen or pelvis or to nearby lymph nodes, or it has spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body far from the bladder.
stage IV breast cancer
Cancer has spread to other organs of the body, most often the bones, lungs, liver, or brain; or tumor has spread locally to the skin and lymph nodes inside the neck, near the collarbone.
stage IV chronic lymphocytic leukemia
There are too many lymphocytes in the blood and too few platelets. This makes it hard for the blood to clot. Lymph nodes, liver, or spleen may be swollen and there may be too few red blood cells present (anemia).
stage IV cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
Stage IV cutaneous T-cell lymphoma may be either of the following: in stage IVA cancer, the skin is red, dry, and scaly, and the lymph nodes contain cancer cells; in stage IVB cancer, the skin is red, dry and scaly, cancer cells may be found in lymph nodes, and cancer has spread to other organs in the body.
stage IV endometrial cancer
Cancer cells have spread to the lining of the bladder or rectum or to distant parts of the body.
stage IV laryngeal cancer
The cancer has spread to tissues around the larynx, such as the pharynx or the tissues in the neck. The lymph nodes in the area may contain cancer; the cancer has spread to more than one lymph node on the same side of the neck as the cancer, to lymph nodes on one or both sides of the neck, or to any lymph node that measures more than 6 centimeters (over 2 inches); or the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
stage IV lip and oral cavity cancer
The cancer has spread to tissues around the lip and oral cavity (the lymph nodes in the area may contain cancer); the cancer is any size and has spread to more than one lymph node on the same side of the neck as the cancer, to lymph nodes on one or both sides of the neck, or to any lymph node that is larger than 6 centimeters (larger than 2 inches); or the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
stage IV melanoma
The tumor has spread to other organs or to lymph nodes far from the original tumor.
stage IV non-small cell lung cancer
Cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
stage IV pancreatic cancer
Cancer of the pancreas in which the cancer has spread to organs near the pancreas (stage IVA) or to organs far away from the pancreas (stage IVB).
stage IV prostate cancer
Cancer cells have spread to lymph nodes (near or far from the prostate) or to organs and tissues far away from the prostate such as the bone, liver, or lungs. Similar to stage D in the Whitmore-Jewett staging system.
standard therapy
A currently accepted and widely used treatment for a certain type of cancer, based on the results of past research.
staurosporine
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkaloids. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer.
stavudine
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called nucleoside analogues. It is used to treat infection caused by viruses.
stem cell factor
A drug that is being studied for its ability to increase the number of stem cells in the blood.
stent
A device placed in a body structure (such as a blood vessel or the gastrointestinal tract) to provide support and keep the structure open.
steroid therapy
Treatment with corticosteroid drugs to reduce swelling, pain, and other symptoms of inflammation.
stomatitis
Inflammation or irritation of the mucous membranes in the mouth.
stoma
A surgically created opening from an area inside the body to the outside.
streptozocin
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
stromal tumors
Tumors that arise in the supporting connective tissue of an organ.
study agent
A medicine, vitamin, mineral, food supplement, or a combination of them that is being tested in a clinical trial.
Su6668
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors. Also called SU006668.
suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug.
sucralfate
A drug used to treat ulcers. It adheres to proteins at the ulcer site and forms a protective coating over the ulcer. Sucralfate is also used to treat mucositis.
sulindac
A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.
superior vena cava syndrome
A condition in which a tumor presses against the superior vena cava (the large vein that carries blood from the head, neck, arms, and chest to the heart). This pressure blocks blood flow to the heart and may cause coughing, difficulty in breathing, and swelling of the face, neck, and upper arms.
suramin
A drug used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections. It is also being studied in the treatment of cancer.
surgery
A procedure to remove or repair a part of the body or to find out whether disease is present. An operation.
surgical oncologist
A doctor who performs biopsies and other surgical procedures in cancer patients.
symptom
An indication that a person has a condition or disease. Some examples of symptoms are headache, fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and pain.
syndrome
A set of symptoms or conditions that occur together and suggest the presence of a certain disease or an increased chance of developing the disease.
synthetic protegrin analogs
A family of drugs that may prevent oral mucositis (sores on the lining of the mouth), a side effect of some cancer treatments.
systemic lupus erythematosus
SLE. A chronic inflammatory connective tissue disease marked by skin rashes, joint pain and swelling, inflammation of the kidneys, inflammation of the fibrous tissue surrounding the heart (i.e., the pericardium), as well as other problems. Not all affected individuals display all of these problems. Also called lupus.
T cell
One type of white blood cell that attacks virus-infected cells, foreign cells, and cancer cells. T cells also produce a number of substances that regulate the immune response.
T4N5 liposomal lotion
Enzyme lotion used in treating xeroderma pigmentosum.
tacrolimus
A drug used to help reduce the risk of rejection by the body of organ and bone marrow transplants.
tamoxifen
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antiestrogens. Tamoxifen blocks the effects of the hormone estrogen in the body. It is used to prevent or delay the return of breast cancer or to control its spread.
taurolidine
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called anti-infectives.
technetium Tc 99m dextran
A radiolabeled substance that is used in cancer diagnosis.
technetium Tc 99m sulfur colloid
A radiolabeled substance that is used to help identify sites of tumor development.
tegafur
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
teicoplanin
A substance used to treat bacterial infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called antibiotics.
temoporfin
An anticancer drug that is also used in cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called photosensitizing agents.
temozolomide
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
Tens
Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation. A technique in which mild electric currents are applied to some areas of the skin by a small power pack connected to two electrodes.
testosterone
A hormone that promotes the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics.
tetanus toxoid
A substance that is derived from the toxin released by the bacterium that causes the disease tetanus. It is used as a vaccine to prevent tetanus or to help boost the immune response to other vaccines.
tetracycline
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection.
Tg4010
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug.
thalidomide
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors. It prevents the growth of new blood vessels into a solid tumor.
theophylline
A drug used to improve breathing in people who are short of breath. It belongs to the family of drugs called bronchodilators or respiratory smooth muscle relaxants.
therapy
Treatment.
thiotepa
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
thrombocytopenia
A decrease in the number of platelets in the blood that may result in easy bruising and excessive bleeding from wounds or bleeding in mucous membranes and other tissues.
thrush
A condition in which Candida albicans, a type of yeast, grows out of control in moist skin areas of the body. It is usually a result of a weakened immune system, but can be a side effect of chemotherapy or treatment with antibiotics. Thrush usually affects the mouth (oral thrush); however, rarely, it spreads throughout the entire body. Also called Candidiasis or Candidosis.
thymidine
A chemical compound found in DNA. Also used as treatment for mucositis.
thymidylate synthase inhibitors
A family of drugs that block DNA synthesis and may prevent tumor cell growth. They are being studied as a treatment for cancer.
thyroid gland
A gland located beneath the voice box (larynx) that produces thyroid hormone. The thyroid helps regulate growth and metabolism.
tiazofurin
An anticancer drug being studied to stop cell growth.
time to progression
A measure of time after a disease is diagnosed (or treated) until the disease starts to get worse.
tin ethyl etiopurpurin
An anticancer drug that is also used in cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called photosensitizing agents. Also called SnET2.
tin Sn 117m DTPA
A radioactive chemical being studied to treat bone pain associated with cancer.
tirapazamine
A drug that makes tumor cells more sensitive to radiation therapy.
tissue flap reconstruction
A type of breast reconstruction in which a flap of tissue is surgically moved from another area of the body to the chest, and formed into a new breast mound.
Tlk286
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called glutathione analogs.
Tnp-470
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors. It prevents the growth of new blood vessels into a solid tumor.
tocladesine
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer drug. It is an analogue of a substance that occurs naturally in the body (cyclic adenosine monophosphate).
topotecan
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors.
toremifene
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antiestrogens. Toremifene blocks the effect of the hormone estrogen in the body. It may help control some cancers from growing, and it may delay or reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
total androgen blockade
Therapy used to eliminate male sex hormones (androgens) in the body. This may be done with surgery, hormonal therapy, or a combination.
total parenteral nutrition
TPN. Intravenous (into a vein) feeding that provides necessary nutrients when a person is unable to eat normally.
totipotent
Having to do with cells that are able to develop into any type of cell found in the body.
Tpa
12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. A drug that is being studied as a treatment for hematologic cancer.
transcendental meditation
TM. A mental technique used to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve quality of life.
transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation
TENS. A technique in which mild electric currents are applied to some areas of the skin by a small power pack connected to two electrodes.
transdermal
Through the skin.
trastuzumab
A type of monoclonal antibody used in cancer detection or therapy. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells. Trastuzumab blocks the effects of the growth factor protein HER2, which transmits growth signals to breast cancer cells.
treatment field
In radiation therapy, the place on the body where the radiation beam is aimed.
treosulfan
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
tretinoin
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called retinoids. It is used in the treatment of acne and is being studied in cancer prevention.
triacetyluridine
A substance that is being studied for its ability to protect against the gastrointestinal side effects caused by fluorouracil. It is a precursor of uridine, which is a component of RNA.
triamcinolone
A substance that is being studied for the prevention of nonmelanoma skin cancer. It is an anti-inflammatory drug that is applied to the skin to relieve irritation, rashes, and infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called topical corticosteroids.
tributyrin
A triglyceride drug that may inhibit cell growth and induce cell differentiation. Differentiating agents may be effective in changing cancer cells back into normal cells.
trimetrexate glucuronate
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites. It is used in the treatment of pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and is being studied in the treatment of cancer.
troglitazone
A drug used in diabetes treatment that is being studied for its effect on reducing the risk of cancer cell growth in fat tissue.
tubal ligation
An operation to tie the fallopian tubes closed. This procedure prevents pregnancy by blocking the passage of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.
tubulovillous adenoma
A type of polyp that grows in the colon and other places in the gastrointestinal tract and sometimes in other parts of the body. These adenomas may become malignant (cancerous).
tumor antigen vaccine
A vaccine made of tumor antigens (proteins isolated from tumor cells).
tumor infiltrating lymphocytes
White blood cells that have left the bloodstream and migrated into a tumor.
tumor load
Refers to the number of cancer cells, the size of a tumor, or the amount of cancer in the body. Also called tumor burden.
tumor necrosis factor
A type of biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to disease). Three types of tumor necrosis factor have been identified: alpha, beta, and gamma. Tumor necrosis factor seems to play a role in the breakdown of cancer cells.
tyrosinase peptide
A tumor-specific antigen used in the development of cancer vaccines.
tyrosine kinase inhibitors
A family of drugs that interfere with cell communication and may prevent tumor growth. They are being studied as a treatment for cancer.
Ucn-01
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called staurosporine analogues.
ulcerative colitis
Chronic inflammation of the colon that produces ulcers in its lining. This condition is marked by abdominal pain, cramps, and loose discharges of pus, blood, and mucus from the bowel.
ultrasonography
A procedure in which sound waves (called ultrasound) are bounced off tissues and the echoes produce a picture (sonogram).
ultrasound energy
A form of therapy being studied as an anticancer treatment. Intensified ultrasound energy can be directed at cancer cells to heat them and kill them.
umbilical cord blood transplantation
The injection of umbilical cord blood to restore an individual's own blood production system suppressed by anticancer drugs, radiation therapy, or both. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer and severe blood disorders such as aplastic anemia. Cord blood contains high concentrations of stem cells needed to produce new blood cells.
unconventional cancer treatments
Approaches that use substances or methods of treating cancer that have not been shown to be effective by accepted scientific methods, such as carefully designed clinical trials.
undifferentiated
A term used to describe cells or tissues that do not have specialized ("mature") structures or functions. Undifferentiated cancer cells often grow and spread quickly.
unilateral
Having to do with one side of the body.
unresectable gallbladder cancer
Cancer that has spread to the tissues around the gallbladder (such as the liver, stomach, pancreas, intestine, or lymph nodes in the area) and cannot be surgically removed.
unsealed internal radiation therapy
Radiation therapy given by injecting a radioactive substance into the bloodstream or a body cavity, or by swallowing it. This substance is not sealed in a container.
uracil
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
urea nitrogen
A chemical in the blood produced by the breakdown of protein. Urea nitrogen is removed from the blood by the kidneys. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) tests are sometimes done to see how well the kidneys are working.
urokinase
A drug that dissolves blood clots or prevents them from forming.
urothelium
The lining of the ureters, bladder, and urethra.
vaccinated
Treated with a vaccine.
valdecoxib
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for pain and other side effects of cancer therapy. It belongs to the family of drugs called COX-2 inhibitors.
valganciclovir
An antiviral agent that is being studied as a treatment for AIDS-related cytomegalovirus. It is changed in the body to ganciclovir.
vancomycin
An antibiotic drug used to fight resistant bacterial infections.
vapreotide
A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family
villous adenoma
A type of polyp that grows in the colon and other places in the gastrointestinal tract and sometimes in other parts of the body. These adenomas may become malignant (cancerous).
villus
A tiny hair-like projection, often on the surface of mucous membranes. The plural is villi.
vincristine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of plant drugs called vinca alkaloids.
vindesine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of plant drugs called vinca alkaloids.
vinorelbine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of plant drugs called vinca alkaloids.
virtual colonoscopy
A method under study to examine the colon by taking a series of x-rays (called a CT scan) and then using a high-powered computer to reconstruct 2-D and 3-D pictures of the interior surfaces of the colon from these x-rays. The pictures can be saved, manipulated to better viewing angles, and reviewed after the procedure, even years later. Also called computed tomography colography.
virulent
Refers to the ability of a virus or a bacterium to cause damage to its host.
visceral
Having to do with the viscera, which are the soft internal organs of the body, including the lungs, the heart, and the organs of the digestive, excretory, reproductive, and circulatory systems.
vitamin A
A substance used in cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called retinoids.
vitamin E
A substance used in cancer prevention. It belongs to the family of drugs called tocopherols.
vitamins
Key nutrients that the body needs in small amounts to grow and stay strong. Examples are vitamins A, C, and E.
Vnp20009
A genetically modified Salmonella bacterium that is injected into the tumor. It is being studied for its ability to shrink solid tumors.
Vnp40101m
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
von Hippel-Lindau syndrome
A rare inherited disorder in which blood vessels grow abnormally in the eyes, brain, spinal cord, adrenal glands, or other parts of the body. People with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome have a higher risk of developing some types of cancer.
voriconazole
A drug that treats infections caused by fungi.
vorozole
A hormone therapy drug used to decrease the production of estrogen.
vulvar cancer
Cancer of the vulva (the external female genital organs, including the clitoris, vaginal lips, and the opening to the vagina).
vulva
The external female genital organs, including the clitoris, vaginal lips, and the opening to the vagina.
Vx-710
A drug being studied to make cancer cells less resistant to the effects of chemotherapy.
Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia
A rare cancer of the lymph cells that causes the body to produce abnormal levels of plasma cells (plasmacytosis) and lymphocytes (lymphocytosis) in the bone marrow. Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia may also cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells (anemia) and enlargement of the liver (hepatomegaly), spleen (splenomegaly), or glands (adenopathy).
warfarin
A drug that prevents blood from clotting. It belongs to the family of drugs called anticoagulants (blood thinners).
whole cell vaccine
Vaccine made from whole tumor cells that have been changed in the laboratory.
Wobe-Mugos E
A mixture made from an extract of the calf thymus gland and enzymes (proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body) from the papaya plant, the pancreas of cows, and the pancreas of pigs. It has been used in Europe as a treatment for a variety of cancers and for herpes virus infections.
Xk469
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase II beta inhibitors.
Xr9576
A substance that is being studied for its ability to overcome tumor-cell resistance to anticancer drugs. It belongs to the family of drugs called anthranilic acid derivatives.
yttrium Y 90 SMT 487
A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. Also called yttrium Y 90-DOTA-tyr3-octreotide.
Zd0473
A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called platinum analogs.
ziconotide
A drug used in the treatment of chronic pain. Also called SNX 111.
zidovudine
A drug that inhibits the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that causes AIDS. Also called AZT. It belongs to the family of drugs called systemic antivirals.
zinc oxide
A compound that may enhance immune function, especially when administered by inhalation.
zoledronate
A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called bisphosphonates. It is used to prevent bone fractures and reduce bone pain in people who have cancer that has spread to the bone.