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17-N-allylamino-17-
demethoxy geldanamycin:
A drug that belongs to a family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics,
and is being studied for its ability to treat cancer.
2IT-BAD monoclonal antibody
170:
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.
3-dimensional: A graphic display
of depth, width, and height. Three-dimensional radiation therapy
uses computers to create a 3-dimensional picture of the tumor.
This allows doctors to give the highest possible dose of radiation
to the tumor while sparing the normal tissue as much as possible.
3F8
monoclonal antibody:
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.
4'-iodo-4'-deoxydoxorubicin: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antineoplastic
antibiotics.
506U78: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
6-hydroxymethylacylfulvene: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
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.
A33
monoclonal antibody:
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.
abdomen (AB-do-men):
The part of the body that contains the pancreas, stomach, intestines,
liver, gallbladder, and other organs.
accelerated
phase
(ak-SEL-er-ay-ted): Refers to chronic myelogenous leukemia that
is progressing. The number of immature, abnormal white blood
cells in the bone marrow and blood is higher than in the chronic
phase, but not as high as in the blast phase.
acetaminophen: A drug that
reduces pain.
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.
achlorhydria (a-klor-HY-dree-a):
A lack of hydrochloric acid in the digestive juices in the stomach.
Hydrochloric acid helps digest food.
acitretin: A drug used
in cancer prevention that belongs to the family of drugs called
retinoids. It is also used in the treatment of psoriasis.
acoustic (ah-KOOS-tik):
Related to sound or hearing.
actinic
keratosis
(ak-TIN-ik ker-a-TOE-sis): A precancerous condition of thick,
scaly patches of skin. Also called solar or senile keratosis.
acupressure: The application
of pressure or localized massage to specific sites on the body
to control symptoms such as pain or nausea. Also used to stop
bleeding.
acupuncture: The technique
of inserting thin needles through the skin at specific points
on the body in order to control pain and other symptoms.
acustimulation: Mild electrical
stimulation of acupuncture points to control symptoms such as
nausea and vomiting.
acute: Having severe
symptoms and a short course; not chronic.
acute
leukemia:
Cancer of the blood-forming tissue that progresses rapidly.
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
lymphocytic 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 lymphoblastic leukemia.
acute
myelogenous leukemia:
AML. A quickly progressing disease in which too many immature
blood-forming cells are found in the blood and bone marrow. Also
called acute myeloid leukemia or acute nonlymphocytic leukemia.
acute
myeloid leukemia:
AML. A quickly progressing disease in which too many immature
blood-forming cells are found in the blood and bone marrow. Also
called acute myelogenous leukemia or acute nonlymphocytic leukemia.
acute
nonlymphocytic leukemia:
A quickly progressing disease in which too many immature blood-forming
cells are found in the blood and bone marrow. Also called acute
myeloid leukemia or acute myelogenous leukemia.
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.
adenocarcinoma (AD-in-o-kar-sin-O-ma):
Cancer that begins in cells that line certain internal organs.
adenoid
cystic cancer:
A rare type of cancer that usually begins in the salivary glands.
adenoma (ad-in-O-ma):
A noncancerous tumor.
adenovirus: A group of viruses
that cause respiratory tract and eye infections. Adenoviruses
used in gene therapy are altered to carry a specific tumor-fighting
gene.
adjuvant
therapy:
Treatment given following the primary treatment to enhance the
effectiveness of the primary treatment. Adjuvant therapy may
be chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy.
adrenal
glands
(a-DREE-nal): A pair of small glands, one located on top of each
kidney. The adrenal glands produce hormones that help control
heart rate, blood pressure, the way the body uses food, and other
vital functions.
adrenaline: A hormone. Also
called epinephrine.
aflatoxins (AF-la-TOK-sins):
Substances made by a fungus that is often found on poorly stored
grains and nuts. Aflatoxins have been implicated as a factor
in the etiology of primary liver cancer.
AG3340: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis
inhibitors. AG3340 is a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor.
aggressive: A quickly growing
cancer.
aggressive
lymphoma:
A quickly growing cancer that arises in the cells of the lymphatic
system.
agonists: Drugs that trigger
an action from a cell or another drug.
agranulocyte (A-gran-yoo-lo-SITE):
A type of white blood cell; monocytes and lymphocytes are agranulocytes.
AIDS: Acquired immunodeficiency
syndrome, the disease caused by human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) infection.
aldesleukin: A colony-stimulating
factor that stimulates the production of blood cells, especially
platelets, during chemotherapy. It is a cytokine that belongs
to the family of drugs called hematopoietic (blood forming) agents.
Also called interleukin-2 or IL-2.
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 (AL-o-jen-AY-ik):
A procedure in which a person receives stem cells, the cells
from which all blood cell develop, from a compatible, though
not genetically identical, donor.
allopurinol: A drug that
lowers high uric acid (a byproduct of metabolism) levels in the
blood caused by some cancer treatments or by gout.
allovectin-7: A compound used
for gene therapy.
alpha-fetoprotein (AL-fa-FEE-toe-PRO-teen):
A protein normally produced by a developing fetus. alpha-fetoprotein
(AFP) levels are usually undetectable in the blood of healthy
adults. An elevated level of AFP suggests the presence of either
a primary liver cancer or germ cell tumor.
altretamine: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
ALVAC-CEA
vaccine:
A cancer vaccine containing a canary pox virus (ALVAC) combined
with the human carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) gene.
alveoli (al-VEE-o-lye):
Tiny air sacs at the end of the bronchioles in the lungs.
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.
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 estrogen
production and suppress the growth of tumors that need estrogen
to grow.
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.
amphotericin
B:
An antifungal drug used to treat infection.
amputation (am-pyoo-TAY-shun):
Surgery to remove part or all of a limb or appendage.
amsacrine: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase
inhibitors.
amylase (AM-il-aze):
An enzyme that helps the body digest starches.
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 effects the nerves, skin, tongue, joints,
heart, and liver; secondary amyloidosis often effects the spleen,
kidneys, liver, and adrenal glands.
analgesics: Drugs that reduce
pain. These drugs include aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen.
analogue: A chemical compound
related in structure to another compound.
anaplastic
(an-ah-PLAS-tik) :
A term used to describe cancer cells that divide rapidly and
bear little or no resemblance to normal cells.
anastomosis (an-AS-ta-MO-sis):
A procedure to connect healthy sections of tubular structures
in the body after the diseased portion has been surgically removed.
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.
androgens (AN-dro-jens):
A family of hormones that promote the development and maintenance
of male sex characteristics.
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. Also
called androgen ablation.
anemia (a-NEE-mee-a):
A condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal.
anesthesia (an-es-THEE-zha):
Loss of feeling or awareness. Local anesthetics cause loss of
feeling in a part of the body. General anesthetics put the person
to sleep.
anesthetics (an-es-THET-iks):
Substances that cause loss of feeling or awareness. Local anesthetics
cause loss of feeling in a part of the body. General anesthetics
put the person to sleep.
anetholtrithione: A drug that
may reduce the risk of development or progression of cancer.
angiogenesis (an-gee-o-GEN-eh-sis):
Blood vessel formation. Tumor angiogenesis is the growth of blood
vessels from surrounding tissue into a solid tumor. This is caused
by the release of a chemical by the tumor cells.
angiogenesis
inhibitor:
A substance that may prevent the formation of blood vessels.
In anticancer therapy, an angiogenesis inhibitor prevents the
growth of blood vessels from surrounding tissue into a solid
tumor.
angiogram (AN-jee-o-gram):
An x-ray of blood vessels; the person receives an injection of
dye to outline the vessels on the x-ray.
angiography (an-jee-AH-gra-fee):
A procedure to x-ray blood vessels. The blood vessels can be
seen because of an injection of a dye that shows up in the x-ray
pictures.
angiosarcoma (AN-jee-o-sar-KO-ma):
A type of cancer that begins in the lining of blood vessels.
anhydrovinblastine: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors.
ansamycins: A group of anticancer
drugs that belongs to the family of drugs called antineoplastic
antibiotics.
anterior
mediastinotomy
(MEE-dee-a-stin-AH-toe-mee): A procedure in which a tube is inserted
into the chest to view the tissues and organs in the area between
the lungs and between the breastbone and spine. The tube is inserted
through an incision next to the breastbone. This procedure is
usually used to get a tissue sample from the lymph nodes on the
left side of the chest. Also called the Chamberlain procedure.
anthracenediones: A subgroup of
the family of anticancer drugs called anticancer antibiotics.
anthracyclines: A subgroup of
the family of anticancer drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
anthraquinones: A family of
anticancer drugs.
antiandrogens (an-tee-AN-dro-jens):
Drugs used to block the production or interfere with the action
of male sex hormones.
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 into a solid tumor.
antibiotics (an-tih-by-AH-tiks):
Drugs used to treat infection.
antibodies (AN-tih-BOD-ees):
Proteins produced by certain white blood cells in response to
foreign substances (antigens). Each antibody can bind only to
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 disable antigens directly.
Others make the antigen more vulnerable to destruction by white
blood cells.
antibody
therapy:
Treatment with an antibody, a substance that can directly kill
specific tumor cells or stimulate the immune system to kill tumor
cells.
anticancer
antibiotics:
A group of anticancer drugs that block cell growth by interfering
with DNA, the genetic material in cells. Also called antitumor
antibiotics or antineoplastic antibiotics.
anti-CEA
antibody:
An antibody against carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a protein
present on certain types of cancer cells.
anticoagulants: Drugs that help
prevent blood clots from forming. Also called blood thinners.
anticonvulsants (an-tee-kon-VUL-sants):
Drugs that prevent, reduce or stop convulsions or seizures.
antiemetics: Drugs that prevent
or reduce nausea and vomiting.
antifungals: Drugs that treat
infections caused by fungi.
antigens: Substances that
are recognized by the immune system and cause the immune system
to create antibodies.
antimetabolites: A group of anticancer
drugs that resemble nutrients that a cell needs to grow. Once
inside the cell, they interfere with the dividing process and
prevent cell growth.
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.
antineoplastons: Substances isolated
from normal human blood and urine being tested as a type of treatment
for some tumors and AIDS.
antiparasitics: Drugs used to
treat bacterial and parasitic infections and some cancers.
antisense
c-fos:
Synthetic genetic material that may slow or stop the growth of
cancer cells.
antithymocyte
globulin
(an-tee-THIGH-mo-site GLOB-yoo-lin): A protein used to reduce
the risk of or to treat graft-versus-host disease.
antivirals: Drugs used to
treat infections caused by viruses.
anus (AY-nus): The
opening of the rectum to the outside of the body.
aplastic
anemia:
A condition in which the bone marrow is unable to produce blood
cells.
aplidine: An anticancer
drug obtained from a marine animal.
apoptosis (ap-o-TOE-sis):
A normal series of events in a cell which lead to its death.
areola (a-REE-o-la):
The area of dark-colored skin on the breast that surrounds the
nipple.
arsenic
trioxide:
An anticancer drug that induces programmed cell death (apoptosis)
in certain cancer cells.
arterial
embolization
(ar-TEE-ree-al EM-bo-lih-ZAY-shun): The blocking of an artery
by a clot of foreign material. This can be done as treatment
to block the flow of blood to a tumor.
arteriogram (ar-TEER-ee-o-gram):
An x-ray of arteries; the person receives an injection of a dye
that outlines the vessels on an x-ray.
arteriography (ar-TEE-ree-AH-gra-fee):
A procedure to x-ray arteries. The arteries can be seen because
of an injection of a dye that outlines the vessels on an x-ray.
asbestos (as-BES-tus):
A natural material that is made up of tiny fibers. The fibers
can cause cancer.
ascites (ah-SYE-teez):
Abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen.
asparaginase: An anticancer
drug that is an enzyme.
aspergillosis: An infectious
fungal disease that occurs most often in the skin, ears, nasal
sinuses, and lungs of persons with a suppressed immune system.
aspirate (AS-pi-rit):
Fluid withdrawn from a lump, often a cyst.
aspiration (as-per-AY-shun):
Removal of fluid from a lump, often a cyst, with a needle and
a syringe.
aspirin: A drug that
reduces pain. Aspirin belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory agents. It is also being studied in cancer
prevention.
astrocytomas (as-tro-sye-TOE-mas):
Tumors that begin in the brain or spinal cord in small, star-shaped
cells called astrocytes.
asymptomatic: Having no signs
or symptoms of disease.
ataxic
gait
(ah-TAK-sik): Awkward, uncoordinated walking.
atypical
hyperplasia
(hy-per-PLAY-zha): A benign (noncancerous) condition in which
cells have abnormal features and are increased in number.
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 (aw-TAHL-o-gus):
A procedure in which bone marrow is removed from a person, stored,
and then given back to the person following 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 the person's tumor.
axilla (ak-SIL-a): The
underarm or armpit.
axillary (AK-sil-air-ee):
Pertaining to the armpit.
axillary
dissection
(AK-sil-air-ee): Surgery to remove lymph nodes found in the armpit
region.
axillary lymph node dissection: Surgery to remove
lymph nodes found in the armpit region.
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.
B3
antigen:
A protein found on some tumor cells.
B43-BAP
immunotoxin:
A toxic substance linked to an antibody that attaches to tumor
cells and kills them.
bacterial
toxin:
A toxic substance, made by bacteria, that can be modified to
kill specific tumor cells without harming normal cells.
barium
enema:
A series of x-rays of the lower intestine. The x-ray pictures
are taken after the person is given an enema with a white, chalky
solution that contains barium. The barium outlines the intestines
on the x-rays.
barium
solution:
A liquid containing barium sulfate that is used in x-rays to
highlight parts of the digestive system.
barium
swallow
(eh-SOF-a-gram): A series of x-rays of the esophagus. The x-ray
pictures are taken after the person drinks a solution that contains
barium. The barium coats and outlines the esophagus on the x-ray.
Also called an esophagram.
Barrett's
esophagus:
A condition in which the cells lining the lower part of the esophagus
have changed or been replaced with abnormal cells that could
lead to cancer of the esophagus. The backing up of stomach contents
(reflux) may irritate the esophagus and over time cause Barrett's
esophagus.
basal
cell carcinoma
(BAY-sal sel kar-sin-O-ma): A type of skin cancer that arises
from the basal cells, small round cells found in the lower part,
or base, of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin.
basal
cells
(BAY-sal): Small, round cells found in the lower part, or base,
of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin.
basophil: A type of white
blood cell. Basophils are granulocytes.
batimastat: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis
inhibitors. Batimastat is a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor.
BAY
12-9566:
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called
angiogenesis inhibitors.
B
cells:
White blood cells that develop from bone marrow and produce antibodies.
Also called B lymphocytes.
BCG
vaccine:
An anticancer drug (bacille calmette-Guerin) that activates the
immune system. Filling the bladder with a solution of BCG is
a form of biological therapy for superficial bladder cancer.
BCL-2
antisense/G3139:
A drug that may kill cancer cells by blocking the production
of a protein that makes cancer cells live longer.
benign (beh-NINE): Not
cancerous; does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts
of the body.
benign
prostatic hyperplasia
(hye-per-PLAY-zha): A benign (noncancerous) condition in which
an overgrowth of prostate tissue pushes against the urethra and
the bladder, blocking the flow of urine. Also called benign prostatic
hypertrophy or BPH.
benign
tumor
(beh-NINE): A noncancerous growth that does not invade nearby
tissue or spread to other parts of the body.
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: Affecting both
the right and left side of body.
bilateral
cancer:
Cancer that occurs in both paired organs, such as both breasts
or both ovaries.
bile: A fluid made
by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Bile is excreted
into the small intestine where it helps digest fat.
bile
duct:
A tube through which bile passes in and out of the liver.
biological
response modifiers
(by-o-LAHJ-i-kul): BRMs. Substances that stimulate the body's
response to infection and disease.
biological
therapy
(by-o-LAHJ-i-kul): Treatment to stimulate or restore the ability
of the immune system to fight infection and disease. Also used
to lessen side effects that may be caused by some cancer treatments.
Also called immunotherapy or biological response modifier (BRM)
therapy.
biomarkers: Substances sometimes
found in an increased amount in the blood, other body fluids,
or tissues and that may suggest the presence of some types of
cancer. Biomarkers include CA 125 (ovarian cancer), CA 15-3 (breast
cancer), CEA (ovarian, lung, breast, pancreas, and GI tract cancers),
and PSA (prostate cancer). Also called tumor markers.
biopsy (BY-ahp-see):
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 the whole tumor 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.
biopsy
specimen:
Tissue removed from the body and examined under a microscope
to determine if disease is present.
bispecific
antibodies:
Antibodies developed in the laboratory to recognize more than
one protein on the surface of different cells. Examples include
bispecific antibodies 2B1, 520C9xH22, mDX-H210, and MDX447.
bizelesin: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
It is also an antitumor antibiotic.
BL22
immunotoxin:
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called
bacterial immunotoxins. BL22 is a bacterial toxic substance linked
to an antibody that attaches to tumor cells and kills them.
bladder: The organ that
stores urine.
blast
crisis:
The phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia in which the number
of immature, abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow and
blood is extremely high. Also called blast phase.
blast
phase:
The phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia in which the number
of immature, abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow and
blood is extremely high. Also called blast crisis.
blasts: Immature blood
cells.
bleomycin: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.
blood-brain
barrier:
A network of blood vessels with closely spaced cells that makes
it difficult for potentially toxic substances (such as anticancer
drugs) to penetrate the blood vessel walls and enter the brain.
blood
transfusion:
The administration of blood or blood products into a blood vessel.
BMS-182751: A platinum compound
used in chemotherapy.
BMS-184476: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors.
bolus: A single dose
of drug usually injected into a blood vessel over a short period
of time.
bolus
infusion:
A single dose of drug usually injected into a blood vessel over
a short period of time.
bone
marrow:
The soft, sponge-like tissue in the center of large bones that
produces white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
bone
marrow ablation:
The destruction of bone marrow using radiation or drugs.
bone
marrow aspiration
(as-per-AY-shun): The removal of a small sample of bone marrow
(usually from the hip) through a needle for examination under
a microscope.
bone
marrow biopsy
(BY-ahp-see): The removal of a sample of tissue from the bone
marrow with a needle for examination under a microscope.
bone
marrow metastases:
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the
bone marrow.
bone
marrow transplantation
(trans-plan-TAY-shun): A procedure to replace bone marrow destroyed
by treatment with high doses of anticancer drugs or radiation.
Transplantation may be autologous (the person's marrow saved
before treatment), allogeneic (marrow donated by someone else),
or syngeneic (marrow donated by an identical twin).
bone
metastases:
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the
bone.
bone
scan:
A technique to create images of bones on a computer screen or
on film. A small amount of radioactive material is injected into
a blood vessel and travels through the bloodstream. It collects
in the bones and is detected by a scanner.
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.
bowel: The long tube-shaped
organ in the abdomen that completes the process of digestion.
There is both a small and large bowel. Also called the intestine.
brachytherapy (BRAK-ih-THER-a-pee):
Radioactive material sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters,
is placed directly into or near the tumor. Also called internal
radiation therapy or implant radiation.
brain
metastases:
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the
brain.
brain
stem:
The part of the brain that is connected to the spinal cord.
brain
stem glioma
(glee-O-ma): 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).
BRCA1: A gene located
on chromosome 17 that normally helps to suppress cell growth.
Inheriting an altered version of BRCA1 predisposes an individual
to breast, ovarian, or prostate cancer.
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).
breast
reconstruction:
Surgery to rebuild a breast's shape after a mastectomy.
Brief
Pain Inventory:
A questionnaire used to measure pain.
bronchi (BRONK-eye):
The large air passages that lead from the trachea (windpipe)
to the lungs.
bronchioles (BRON-kee-olz):
The tiny branches of air tubes in the lungs.
bronchitis (bron-KYE-tis):
Inflammation (swelling and reddening) of the bronchi.
bronchoscope (BRON-ko-skope):
A thin, lighted tube used to examine the inside of the trachea
and bronchi, the air passages that lead into the lungs.
bronchoscopy (bron-KOS-ko-pee):
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.
buccal
mucosa
(BUK-ul myoo-KO-sa): The inner lining of the cheeks and lips.
Burkitt's
lymphoma:
A type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that most often occurs in young
people between the ages of 12 and 30. 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.
bypass: A surgical procedure
in which the doctor creates a new pathway for the flow of body
fluids.
C225 monoclonal
antibody:
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.
CA-125: Substance sometimes
found in an increased amount in the blood, other body fluids,
or tissues and that may suggest the presence of some types of
cancer.
calcitonin: A hormone secreted
by the thyroid that lowers blood calcium levels.
calcitriol: A drug made
in the lab that is chemically similar to vitamin D.
calcium (KAL-see-um):
A mineral found in teeth, bones, and other body tissues.
calcium
carbonate:
A mineral taken primarily as a supplement to prevent osteoporosis.
It is also being studied for cancer prevention.
camptothecin: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase
inhibitors.
camptothecin
analogue:
An anticancer drug related in structure to camptothecin, a topoisomerase
inhibitor. One such drug is aminocamptothecin.
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.
cancer of unknown primary
origin:
Cancer cells are found in the body, but the place where the cells
first started growing (the origin or primary site) cannot be
found.
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 following chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
carbendazim: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antifungal agents.
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.
carcinoembryonic antigen
peptide-1:
CAP-1. A protein that can stimulate an immune response to certain
tumors.
carcinogen (kar-SIN-o-jin):
Any substance that causes cancer.
carcinogenesis: The process
by which normal cells are transformed into cancer cells.
carcinoma (kar-sin-O-ma):
Cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover
internal organs.
carcinoma
in situ
(kar-sin-O-ma in SYE-too): Cancer that involves only the cells
in which it began and has not spread to neighboring tissues.
cardiac: Pertaining to
the heart.
cardiopulmonary: Pertaining to
the heart and lungs.
carmustine: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
carotenoids: Substance found
in yellow/orange fruits and vegetables and dark green leafy vegetables
that may reduce the risk of developing cancer.
cartilage (KAR-tih-lij):
Firm, rubbery tissue that cushions bones at joints. A more flexible
kind of cartilage connects muscles with bones and makes up other
parts of the body, such as the larynx and the ears.
carzelesin: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
Castleman's
disease:
A rare disorder in which noncancerous growths develop in lymph
node tissue.
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 (KATH-et-er):
A flexible tube used to deliver fluids into or withdraw fluids
from the body.
cauterization (KAW-ter-ih-ZAY-shun):
The destruction of tissue with a hot instrument, an electrical
current, or a caustic substance.
CC-49
monoclonal antibody:
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.
CCI-779: An anticancer
drug that inhibits the growth of cancer cells by preventing cell
division.
CD34
antigen:
A protein found on the surface of some bone marrow and blood
cells.
CEA: Carcinoembryonic
antigen. A substance that is sometimes found in an increased
amount in the blood of people with certain cancers.
CEA
assay:
A laboratory test to measure carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA),
a substance that is sometimes found in an increased amount in
the blood of people who have certain cancers.
ceftriaxone: An antibiotic
drug used to treat infection.
celecoxib: A drug that
reduces pain. Celecoxib belongs to the family of drugs called
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. It is also being studied
for cancer prevention.
cell: The basic unit
of any living organism.
cell
differentiation:
The process during which young, immature (unspecialized) cells
take on individual characteristics and reach their mature (specialized)
form and function.
cell
motility:
The ability of a cell to move.
cell
proliferation:
An increase in the number of cells as a result of cell growth
and cell division.
cellular
adhesion:
The close adherence (bonding) to adjoining cell surfaces.
central
nervous system:
CNS. The brain and spinal cord.
central venous access catheter: A tube surgically
placed into a blood vessel for the purpose of giving intravenous
fluid and drugs. It also can be used to obtain blood samples.
This device avoids the need for separate needle insertions for
each infusion.
CEP-2563
dihydrochloride:
A growth factor antagonist that may stop tumor cells from growing.
cephalexin: An antibiotic
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called cephalosporins.
cephalosporins: A family of
antibiotic drugs that is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial
infections.
c-erbB-2: The gene that
controls cell growth by making the human epidermal growth factor
receptor 2. Also called HER2/neu.
cerebellum (sair-uh-BELL-um):
The portion of the brain in the back of the head between the
cerebrum and the brain stem. The cerebellum controls balance
for walking and standing, and other complex motor functions.
cerebral
hemispheres
(seh-REE-bral HEM-iss-feerz): The two halves of the cerebrum,
the part of the brain that controls muscle functions of the body
and also controls speech, emotions, reading, writing, and learning.
The right hemisphere controls muscle movement on the left side
of the body, and the left hemisphere controls muscle movement
on the right side of the body.
cerebrospinal
fluid
(seh-REE-bro-SPY-nal): CSF. The fluid flowing around the brain
and spinal cord. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the ventricles
in the brain.
cerebrum (seh-REE-brum):
The largest part of the brain. It is divided into two hemispheres,
or halves, called the cerebral hemispheres. The cerebrum controls
muscle functions of the body and also controls speech, emotions,
reading, writing, and learning.
cervical intraepithelial
neoplasia
(SER-vih-kul in-tra-eh-pih-THEEL-ee-ul NEE-o-play-zha): 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.
cervix (SER-viks): The
lower, narrow end of the uterus that forms a canal between the
uterus and vagina.
CGP
48664:
An anticancer drug that may inhibit the growth of some tumors.
chemoembolization: A procedure
in which the blood supply to the tumor is blocked surgically
or mechanically, and anticancer drugs are administered directly
into the tumor. This permits a higher concentration of drug to
be in contact with the tumor for a longer period of time.
chemoprevention (KEE-mo-pre-VEN-shun):
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.
chemosensitivity
assay:
A laboratory test to analyze the responsiveness of a tumor to
a specific drug.
chemosensitizer: A drug that
makes tumor cells more sensitive to the effects of chemotherapy.
chemotherapy (kee-mo-THER-a-pee):
Treatment with anticancer drugs.
chlorambucil: An anticancer
drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
cholangiosarcoma (ko-LAN-jee-o-sar-KO-ma):
A tumor of the connective tissues of the bile ducts.
chondrosarcoma (KAHN-dro-sar-KO-ma):
A type of cancer that forms in cartilage.
chordoma (kor-DO-ma):
A type of bone cancer that usually starts in the lower spinal
column.
choriocarcinomar: A rare cancer
in women of child-bearing age in which cancer cells grow in the
tissues that are formed in the uterus following conception. Also
called gestational trophoblastic disease, gestational trophoblastic
neoplasia, gestational trophoblastic tumor, or molar pregnancy.
choroid
plexus tumor:
A rare type of cancer that occurs in the ventricles of the brain.
It usually occurs in children younger than 2 years old.
chromosome (KRO-mo-some):
Part of a cell that contains genetic information. Except for
sperm and eggs, all human cells contain 46 chromosomes.
chronic: A disease or
condition that persists or progresses over a long period of time.
chronic
granulocytic leukemia:
A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells
are made in the bone marrow. Also called chronic myelogenous
leukemia or chronic myeloid leukemia.
chronic
leukemia
(KRAHN-ik): Cancer of the blood-forming tissues that progresses
slowly.
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
myeloid leukemia:
CML. A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood
cells are made in the bone marrow. Also called chronic myelogenous
leukemia or chronic granulocytic leukemia.
chronic
phase
(KRAHN-ik): Refers to the early stages of chronic myelogenous
leukemia or chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The number of mature
and immature, abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow and
blood is higher than normal, but lower than in the accelerated
or blast phase.
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.
cidofovir: A drug used
to treat infection caused by viruses.
cimetidine: A drug usually
used to treat stomach ulcers. It is also commonly used in a regimen
to prevent allergic reactions.
ciprofloxacin: An anti-infective
drug that is also being studied in bladder cancer chemotherapy.
cirrhosis: A type of liver
disease.
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.
clinical
trial:
A research study that evaluates the effectiveness of new interventions
in people. Each study is designed to evaluate new methods of
screening, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of cancer.
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.
CMA-676: An anticancer
drug used in the treatment of acute myelogenous leukemia.
CNS: Central nervous
system. The brain and spinal cord.
CNS
metastases:
Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the
central nervous system.
CNS
prophylaxis
(pro-fih-LAK-sis): Chemotherapy or radiation therapy given to
the central nervous system (CNS) as a preventive treatment. It
is given to kill cancer cells that may be in the brain and spinal
cord, even though no cancer has been detected there.
CNS
tumors:
Tumors of the central nervous system, including brain stem glioma,
craniopharyngioma, medulloblastoma, and meningioma.
coactivated
T cells:
T cells that have been coated with monoclonal antibodies to enhance
their ability to kill tumor cells.
COL-3: An anticancer
drug that may stop tumor growth by preventing the growth of new
blood vessels into a solid tumor.
colectomy (ko-LEK-toe-mee):
An operation to remove all or part of 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.
colon (KO-lun): The
long, coiled, tubelike organ that removes water from digested
food. The remaining material, solid waste called stool, moves
through the colon to the rectum and leaves the body through the
anus.
colonoscope (ko-LAHN-o-skope):
A thin, lighted tube used to examine the inside of the colon.
colonoscopy (ko-lun-AHS-ko-pee):
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 if 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.
colorectal (ko-lo-REK-tul):
Related to the colon and rectum.
colostomy (ko-LAHS-toe-mee):
An opening into the colon from the outside of the body. A colostomy
provides a new path for waste material to leave the body after
part of the colon has been removed.
colposcope: A lighted magnifying
instrument used for examination of the vagina and cervix.
colposcopy (kul-PAHS-ko-pee):
Examination of the vagina and cervix using a lighted magnifying
instrument called a colposcope.
combination
chemotherapy:
Treatment using more than one anticancer drug.
combretastatin
A4 phosphate:
An anticancer drug that reduces the blood supply to tumors; it
is a tubulin binding agent.
common
bile duct:
Carries bile from the liver and gallbladder into the duodenum
(the upper part of the small intestine).
complete
remission:
The disappearance of all signs of cancer. Also called complete
response.
complete
response:
The disappearance of all signs of cancer. Also called complete
remission.
compression
bandage:
A bandage designed to provide pressure to a particular area.
computed
tomography
(tuh-MAH-gra-fee): A series of detailed pictures of areas inside
the body; the pictures are created by a computer linked to an
x-ray machine. Also called computed tomography (CT) scan or computed
axial tomography (CAT) scan.
condylomata
acuminata
(kahn-dih-LO-ma-ta a-kyoo-mih-NA-ta): Genital warts caused by
certain human papillomaviruses.
cone
biopsy:
Surgery to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix
and cervical canal. Cone biopsy may be used to diagnose or treat
a cervical condition. Also called conization.
congestive
heart failure:
Weakness of the heart muscle that leads to a buildup of fluid
in body tissues.
conization (ko-nih-ZAY-shun):
Surgery to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix
and cervical canal. Conization may be used to diagnose or treat
a cervical condition. Also called cone biopsy.
consolidation
therapy:
Chemotherapy treatments given after induction chemotherapy to
further reduce the number of cancer cells.
continent
reservoir
(KAHN-tih-nent RES-er-vwar): A pouch formed from a piece of small
intestine to hold urine after the bladder has been removed.
continuous hyperthermic
peritoneal perfusion:
CHPP. A procedure that bathes the abdominal cavity in fluid that
contains anticancer drugs. This fluid is warmer than body temperature.
This procedure appears to kill cancer cells without harming normal
cells.
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