CCI-779
A drug used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer). It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. CCI-779 blocks a protein involved in cell division, and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of rapamycin analog and serine/threonine kinase inhibitor. Also called temsirolimus and Torisel.
cCLB8
A chimeric (made from human and mouse proteins) monoclonal antibody being studied in the treatment of advanced kidney cancer and other types of cancer. Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory and can locate and bind to substances in the body, including cancer cells. cCLB8 works by blocking inflammation and tumor growth. Also called anti-IL-6 chimeric monoclonal antibody and CNTO 328.
CD34 antigen
A protein found on the surface of some bone marrow and blood cells.
CD40-ligand
A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It binds to certain immune cells and may suppress cancer growth.
CDDO
A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. CDDO may block enzymes involved in inflammation and cancer growth. It is a type of antineoplastic plant product.
CDK inhibitor AT7519M (... in-HIH-bih-ter ...)
A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. CDK inhibitor AT7519M blocks enzymes needed for cells to divide. It is a type of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. Also called AT7519M.
CEA
Carcinoembryonic antigen. A substance that is sometimes found in an increased amount in the blood of people who have certain cancers, other diseases, or who smoke. It is used as a tumor marker for colorectal cancer. Also called carcinoembryonic antigen.
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.
cecum (SEE-kum)
A pouch that forms the first part of the large intestine. It connects the small intestine to the colon, which is part of the large intestine.
cedarwood (SEE-der-WOOD)
A type of evergreen tree with hard fragrant wood that is a member of the cypress family. The oil from the wood is used in soaps, shampoos, bath salts, perfumes, aromatherapy, and to keep insects away. The scientific name is Juniperus virginiana. Also called Eastern red cedar and red cedar.
cefepime
A drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics.
cefixime
An antibiotic drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called cephalosporins.
ceftriaxone
A drug used to treat infection. It belongs to the family of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics.
celecoxib (SEL-uh-KOK-sib)
A drug that reduces pain. Celecoxib belongs to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. It is being studied in the prevention of cancer.
Celexa
A drug used to treat depression. It belongs to the families of drugs called antidepressant agents and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Also called citalopram.
celiac disease
A digestive disease that is caused by an immune response to a protein called gluten, which is found in wheat, rye, barley, and oats. Celiac disease damages the lining of the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients from food. A person with celiac disease may become malnourished no matter how much food is consumed.
cell (sel)
The individual unit that makes up the tissues of the body. All living things are made up of one or more cells.
cell culture (SEL KUL-chur)
The growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast, or human, plant, or animal cells in the laboratory. Cell cultures may be used to diagnose infections, to test new drugs, and in research.
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 (SEL proh-LIH-fuh-RAY-shun)
An increase in the number of cells as a result of cell growth and cell division.
cell respiration
A chemical process in which oxygen is used to make energy from carbohydrates (sugars). Also called oxidative metabolism, aerobic metabolism, and aerobic respiration.
cell-cycle regulation
Any process that controls the series of events by which a cell goes through the cell cycle. During the cell cycle, a cell makes a copy of its DNA and other contents, and divides in two. When cell cycle regulation doesn’t happen correctly, cells may divide in an uncontrolled way, and diseases such as cancer can occur.
cell-to-cell signaling
The transfer of information from one cell to another.
CellCept (SEL-sept)
A drug used to prevent graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after organ transplants. It is also being studied in the prevention of GVHD after stem cell transplants for cancer, and in the treatment of some autoimmune disorders. CellCept is a type of immunosuppressive agent. Also called mycophenolate mofetil.
cellular adhesion (SEL-yoo-ler ad-HEE-zhun)
The close adherence (bonding) to adjoining cell surfaces.
cellular adoptive immunotherapy (SEL-yoo-ler uh-DOP-tiv IH-myoo-noh-THAYR-uh-pee)
A treatment used to help the immune system fight cancer. A cancer patient’s T cells (a type of white blood cell) are collected and grown in the laboratory to increase the number of T cells that are able to kill the person’s cancer cells. These cancer-specific T cells are given back to the patient to help the immune system fight the cancer.
cellular metabolism (SEL-yoo-ler meh-TA-buh-lih-zum)
The sum of all chemical changes that take place in a cell through which energy and basic components are provided for essential processes, including the synthesis of new molecules and the breakdown and removal of others.
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.
cellulose (SEL-yoo-lose)
A building block of plant cells and fiber. Cellulose cannot be digested by people, and is used to add bulk to the diet.
centimeter (SEN-tih-MEE-ter)
A measure of length in the metric system. There are 100 centimeters in a meter and 2½ centimeters in an inch.
central nervous system (SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem)
CNS. The brain and spinal cord. Also called CNS.
central nervous system metastasis (SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem meh-TAS-tuh-sis)
CNS metastasis. Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the central nervous system (CNS). Also called CNS metastasis.
central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumor (SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem PRI-muh-tiv NOOR-oh-EK-toh-DER-mul TOO-mer)
CNS PNET. A type of cancer that arises from a particular type of cell within the brain or spinal cord. Also called CNS PNET.
central nervous system prophylaxis (SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem pro-fih-LAK-sis)
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy given to the central nervous system (CNS) as a preventive treatment. It kills cancer cells that may be in the brain and spinal cord, even though no cancer has been detected there. Also called CNS prophylaxis, central nervous system sanctuary therapy, and CNS sanctuary therapy.
central nervous system sanctuary therapy (SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem SANK-choo-WAYR-ee THAYR-uh-pee)
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy given to the central nervous system (CNS) as a preventive treatment. It kills cancer cells that may be in the brain and spinal cord, even though no cancer has been detected there. Also called CNS sanctuary therapy, central nervous system prophylaxis, and CNS prophylaxis.
central nervous system tumor (SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem TOO-mer)
CNS tumor. A tumor of the central nervous system, including brain stem glioma, craniopharyngioma, medulloblastoma, and meningioma. Also called CNS tumor.
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 or blood test. Examples of these devices include Hickman catheters, which require clamps to make sure the valve is closed, and Groshong catheters, which have a valve that opens as fluid is withdrawn or infused and remains closed when not in use.
CEP-2563 dihydrochloride (... dy-HY-droh-KLOR-ide)
A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. CEP-2563 dihyrochloride blocks a protein that increases the growth of some brain tumors and may cause tumor cells to die. It is a type of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
CEP-701
A drug being studied in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia and some other types of cancer. It binds to a protein that is present in large amounts on the surface of acute myeloid leukemia cells and stops them from dividing. CEP-701 may also cause cancer cells to die. It is a type of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a type of indolocarbazole alkaloid. Also called lestaurtinib.
cephalexin
An antibiotic drug that belongs to the family of drugs called cephalosporins.
cephalosporin
A drug used to treat bacterial infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called antibiotics.
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.
cerebellar hemangioblastoma (ser-eh-BEH-ler hee-MAN-jee-OH-blas-TOH-muh)
A benign, slow-growing tumor in the cerebellum (part of the brain at the back of the head), made up of abnormal blood vessel growth. People with von Hippel-Landau disease have an increased risk of developing hemangioblastomas.
cerebellopontine (SER-uh-BEL-o-PON-teen)
Having to do with two structures of the brain, the cerebellum (located at the lower back of the brain) and the pons (located at the base of the brain in front of the cerebellum) and the area between them.
cerebellum (ser-uh-BEL-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 hemisphere (seh-REE-bral HEM-is-feer)
One half of the cerebrum, the part of the brain that controls muscle functions and also controls speech, thought, emotions, reading, writing, and learning. The right hemisphere controls the muscles on the left side of the body, and the left hemisphere controls the muscles on the right side of the body.
cerebrospinal fluid (seh-REE-broh-SPY-nul...)
The fluid that flows in and around the hollow spaces of the brain and spinal cord, and between two of the meninges (the thin layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord). Cerebrospinal fluid is made by tissue called the choroid plexus in the ventricles (hollow spaces) in the brain. Also called CSF.
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.
cerebrum (seh-REE-brum)
The largest part of the brain. It is divided into two hemispheres, or halves, called the cerebral hemispheres. Areas within the cerebrum control muscle functions and also control speech, thought, emotions, reading, writing, and learning.
Cerubidine (seh-ROO-bih-dine)
A drug used to treat acute leukemias and some other types of cancer. Cerubidine blocks topoisomerases, enzymes that are needed for cell growth and the division and repair of DNA, and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called daunorubicin and daunorubicin hydrochloride.
cervical (SER-vih-kul)
Relating to the neck, or to the neck of any organ or structure. Cervical lymph nodes are located in the neck. Cervical cancer refers to cancer of the uterine cervix, which is the lower, narrow end (the “neck”) of the uterus.
cervical cancer (SER-vih-kul KAN-ser)
Cancer that forms in tissues of the cervix (the organ connecting the uterus and vagina). It is usually a slow-growing cancer that may not have symptoms but can be found with regular Pap tests (a procedure in which cells are scraped from the cervix and looked at under a microscope).
cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (SER-vih-kul IN-truh-eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh)
Growth of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. Numbers from 1 to 3 may be used to describe how abnormal the cells are and how much of the cervical tissue is involved. Also called CIN.
cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia 1 (SER-vih-kul SKWAY-mus IN-truh-eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh ...)
A condition in which slightly abnormal cells grow on the thin layer of tissue that covers the cervix. These abnormal cells are not malignant (cancerous) but may become cancer. Also called CIN 1.
cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia 2 (SER-vih-kul SKWAY-mus IN-truh-eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh ...)
A condition in which moderately abnormal cells grow on the thin layer of tissue that covers the cervix. These abnormal cells are not malignant (cancerous) but may become cancer. Also called CIN 2.
cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia 3 (SER-vih-kul SKWAY-mus IN-truh-eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh …)
Abnormal cells are found in the cervical epithelium (the innermost lining of the cervix). These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into nearby normal tissue. Also called stage 0 cervical carcinoma in situ and CIN 3.
cervicectomy (SER-vih-SEK-toh-mee)
Surgery to remove the cervix (the end of the uterus that forms a canal between the uterus and the vagina).The upper part of the vagina and certain pelvic lymph nodes may also be removed. Also called a trachelectomy.
cervix (SER-viks)
The lower, narrow end of the uterus that forms a canal between the uterus and vagina.
cetuximab (seh-TUK-sih-mab)
A monoclonal antibody used to treat certain types of head and neck cancer, and colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory and can locate and bind to cancer cells. Cetuximab binds to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is found on the surface of some types of cancer cells. Also called Erbitux.
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
A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase inhibitors.
Chamberlain procedure (CHAYM-ber-len proh-SEE-jer)
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 heart. 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 anterior mediastinotomy.
chamomile (KA-muh-mile)
A family of plants with daisy-like flowers. Two types are German chamomile and Roman or English chamomile. These are used in teas to calm and relax, to improve sleep, and to help with stomach problems. The essential oil (scented liquid taken from plants) of chamomile is used in perfumes, shampoos, lotions, and aromatherapy.
change of life
The time of life when a woman no longer has menstrual periods. Change of life is reached when she hasn't had a period for 12 months in a row. Also called menopause.
Chantix (CHAN-tix)
A drug used to help people stop smoking by acting the same way nicotine acts in the brain. It is a type of nicotine receptor partial agonist. Also called varenicline tartrate.
chaplain (CHA-plin)
A member of the clergy in charge of a chapel or who works with the military or with an institution, such as a hospital.
charged-particle radiation therapy (… PAR-tih-kul RAY-dee-AY-shun THAYR-uh-pee)
A type of external radiation therapy that uses a special machine to make invisible, high-energy particles (protons or helium ions) that kill cancer cells. This type of radiation may cause less damage to nearby healthy tissue than radiation therapy with high-energy x-rays.
chemical imbalance (KEH-mih-kul im-BA-lunts)
Too much or too little of any substance that helps the body work the way it should. A chemical imbalance may be caused by certain tumors and can cause changes in behavior or emotion.
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.
chemoimmunotherapy (KEE-moh-IH-myoo-noh-THAYR-uh-pee)
Chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy. Chemotherapy uses different drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells; immunotherapy uses treatments to stimulate or restore the ability of the immune system to fight cancer.
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.
chemoprevention study
In cancer prevention, a clinical trial that studies whether taking certain medicines, vitamins, minerals, or food supplements can prevent cancer. Also called agent study.
chemoprotective
A quality of some drugs used in cancer treatment. Chemoprotective agents protect healthy tissue from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs.
chemoradiation
Treatment that combines chemotherapy with radiation therapy. Also called chemoradiotherapy.
chemoradiotherapy (KEE-moh-RAY-dee-oh-THAYR-uh-pee)
Treatment that combines chemotherapy with radiation therapy. Also called chemoradiation.
chemosensitivity
The susceptibility of tumor cells to the cell-killing effects of anticancer drugs.
chemosensitivity assay
A laboratory test that measures the number of tumor cells that are killed by a cancer drug. The test is done after the tumor cells are removed from the body. A chemosensitivity assay may help in choosing the best drug or drugs for the cancer being treated.
chemosensitizer
A drug that makes tumor cells more sensitive to the effects of chemotherapy.
chemotherapeutic agent
A drug used to treat cancer.
chemotherapy (KEE-moh-THAYR-uh-pee)
Treatment with drugs that kill cancer cells.
chest wall
The muscles, bones, and joints that make up the area of the body between the neck and the abdomen.
chest x-ray
An x-ray of the structures inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of high-energy radiation that can go through the body and onto film, making pictures of areas inside the chest, which can be used to diagnose disease.
chiasma (ki-AZ-ma)
An anatomy term for an X-shaped crossing (for example, of nerves or tendons).
child-life worker
A professional who is responsible for making a child's hospital and treatment experience less scary.
Chinese meridian theory (chy-NEEZ meh-RID-ee-un THEER-ee)
In traditional Chinese medicine, meridians are channels that form a network in the body, through which qi (vital energy) flows. Blocked qi causes pain or illness. The flow of qi is restored by using pressure, needles, suction, or heat at hundreds of specific points along the meridians.
Chinese rhubarb (chy-NEEZ ROO-barb)
The root of this plant has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems. It may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. The scientific name is Rheum palmatum or Rheum officinale. Also called rhubarb, da-huang, Indian rhubarb, and Turkish rhubarb.
CHIR-265
A substance being studied in the treatment of melanoma. CHIR-265 may block the growth of tumors and the growth of blood vessels from surrounding tissue to the tumor. It is a type of Raf kinase inhibitor and angiogenesis inhibitor.
chitin
A type of polysaccharide (sugar molecule) that is made by some plants and animals. The hard outer shell of shrimp, lobsters, and many insects is made of chitin.
chlorambucil
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
chlorine
A chemical used to disinfect water and as a bleach.
chloroma
A malignant, green-colored tumor of myeloid cells (a type of immature white blood cell). This tumor is usually associated with myelogenous leukemia. Also called granulocytic sarcoma.
chloroquinoxaline sulfonamide (KLOR-oh-kwih-NOK-sah-leen sul-FAH-nuh-MIDE)
CQS. A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called CQS.
cholangiocarcinoma
A rare type of cancer that develops in cells that line the bile ducts in the liver. Cancer that forms where the right and left ducts meet is called Klatskin tumor.
cholangiosarcoma (ko-LAN-jee-o-sar-KO-ma)
A tumor of the connective tissues of the bile ducts.
cholecalciferol (KOH-leh-kal-SIH-fuh-rol)
A nutrient that helps the body use calcium and phosphorus and make strong bones and teeth. It is found in fatty fish, eggs, and dairy products. The skin can also make cholecalciferol when exposed to sunshine. Not getting enough cholecalciferol can cause a bone disease called rickets. Cholecalciferol is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. Also called vitamin D.
cholelith
Solid material that forms in the gallbladder or common bile duct. Choleliths are made of cholesterol or other substances found in the gallbladder. They may occur as one large stone or as many small ones, and vary from the size of a golf ball to a grain of sand. Also called gallstone.
cholestasis
Any condition in which the release of bile from the liver is blocked. The blockage can occur in the liver (intrahepatic cholestasis) or in the bile ducts (extrahepatic cholestasis).
cholesterol (kuh-LESS-tuh-rawl)
A waxy, fat-like substance made in the liver, and found in the blood and in all cells of the body. Cholesterol is important for good health and is needed for making cell walls, tissues, hormones, vitamin D, and bile acid. Cholesterol also comes from eating foods taken from animals such as egg yolks, meat, and whole-milk dairy products. Too much cholesterol in the blood may build up in blood vessel walls, block blood flow to tissues and organs, and increase the risk of developing heart disease and stroke.
chondrocyte
Cartilage cell. Chondrocytes make the structural components of cartilage.
chondroitin sulfate
The major glycosaminoglycan (a type of sugar molecule) in cartilage.
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 cord.
chorioadenoma destruens (KOR-ee-oh-A-deh-NOH-muh des-TROO-ens)
A type of cancer that grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. It is formed after conception (fertilization of an egg by a sperm). It may spread to other parts of the body, such as the vagina, vulva, and lung. Also called invasive hydatidiform mole.
chorioallantoic membrane
The membrane in hens' eggs that helps chicken embryos get enough oxygen and calcium for development. The calcium comes from the egg shell.
chorioblastoma (KOR-ee-oh-blas-TOH-muh)
A malignant, fast-growing tumor that develops from trophoblastic cells (cells that help an embryo attach to the uterus and help form the placenta). Almost all chorioblastomas form in the uterus after fertilization of an egg by a sperm, but a small number form in a testis or an ovary. Chorioblastomas spread through the blood to other organs, especially the lungs. They are a type of gestational trophoblastic disease. Also called choriocarcinoma, chorioepithelioma, and chorionic carcinoma.
choriocarcinoma (KOR-ee-oh-KAR-sih-NOH-muh)
A malignant, fast-growing tumor that develops from trophoblastic cells (cells that help an embryo attach to the uterus and help form the placenta). Almost all choriocarcinomas form in the uterus after fertilization of an egg by a sperm, but a small number form in a testis or an ovary. Choriocarcinomas spread through the blood to other organs, especially the lungs. They are a type of gestational trophoblastic disease. Also called chorioblastoma, chorioepithelioma, and chorionic carcinoma.
chorioepithelioma (KOR-ee-oh-EH-pih-THEE-lee-OH-muh)
A malignant, fast-growing tumor that develops from trophoblastic cells (cells that help an embryo attach to the uterus and help form the placenta). Almost all chorioepitheliomas form in the uterus after fertilization of an egg by a sperm, but a small number form in a testis or an ovary. Chorioepitheliomas spread through the blood to other organs, especially the lungs. They are a type of gestational trophoblastic disease. Also called chorioblastoma, choriocarcinoma, and chorionic carcinoma.
chorionic carcinoma (KOR-ee-AH-nik KAR-sih-NOH-muh)
A malignant, fast-growing tumor that develops from trophoblastic cells (cells that help an embryo attach to the uterus and help form the placenta). Almost all chorionic carcinomas form in the uterus after fertilization of an egg by a sperm, but a small number form in a testis or an ovary. Chorionic carcinomas spread through the blood to other organs, especially the lungs. They are a type of gestational trophoblastic disease. Also called choriocarcinoma, chorioblastoma, and chorioepithelioma.
choroid (KOR-oid)
A thin layer of tissue that is part of the middle layer of the wall of the eye, between the sclera (white outer layer of the eye) and the retina (the inner layer of nerve tissue at the back of the eye). The choriod is filled with blood vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to the eye.
choroid plexus tumor (KOR-oyd PLEK-sus TOO-mer)
A rare type of cancer that occurs in the ventricles of the brain. It usually occurs in children younger than 2 years.
CHPP
Continuous hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion. 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. Also called continuous hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion.
chromaffin cell (KROH-muh-fin ...)
A type of cell that makes neurohormones (chemicals that are made by nerve cells and used to send signals to other cells) and releases them into the blood. Chromaffin cells make epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). They are found in the adrenal glands or in groups of nerve cells called ganglia.
chromosome (KROH-muh-some)
Part of a cell that contains genetic information. Except for sperm and eggs, all human cells contain 46 chromosomes.
chronic (KRAHN-ik)
A disease or condition that persists or progresses over a long period of time.
chronic eosinophilic leukemia
A disease in which too many eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) are found in the bone marrow, blood, and other tissues. Chronic eosinophilic leukemia may stay the same for many years, or it may progress quickly to acute leukemia.
chronic fatigue syndrome (KRAH-nik fuh-TEEG SIN-drome)
A condition lasting for more than 6 months in which a person feels tired most of the time and may have trouble concentrating and carrying out daily activities. Other symptoms include sore throat, fever, muscle weakness, headache, and joint pain.
chronic granulocytic leukemia (KRAH-nik GRAN-yoo-loh-SIH-tik loo-KEE-mee-uh)
A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells (not lymphocytes) are made in the bone marrow. Also called chronic myelogenous leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, and CML.
chronic idiopathic myelofibrosis (KRAH-nik IH-dee-oh-PA-thik MY-eh-loh-fy-BROH-sis)
A progressive, chronic disease in which the bone marrow is replaced by fibrous tissue and blood is made in organs such as the liver and the spleen, instead of in the bone marrow. This disease is marked by an enlarged spleen and progressive anemia. Also called agnogenic myeloid metaplasia, primary myelofibrosis, myelosclerosis with myeloid metaplasia, and idiopathic myelofibrosis.
chronic leukemia (KRAHN-ik)
A slowly progressing cancer that starts in blood-forming tissues such as the bone marrow, and causes large numbers of white blood cells to be produced and enter the blood stream.
chronic lymphoblastic leukemia (KRAH-nik LIM-foh-BLAS-tik loo-KEE-mee-uh)
CLL. A slow-growing type of leukemia (blood cancer) in which too many lymphoblasts (immature white blood cells) are found in the blood and bone marrow. Also called chronic lymphocytic leukemia and CLL.
chronic lymphocytic leukemia (KRAH-nik LIM-foh-SIH-tik loo-KEE-mee-uh)
CLL. A slow-growing type of leukemia (blood cancer) in which too many lymphoblasts (immature white blood cells) are found in the blood and bone marrow. Also called chronic lymphoblastic leukemia and CLL.
chronic myelogenous leukemia (KRAH-nik MY-eh-LAH-jeh-nus loo-KEE-mee-uh)
CML. A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells (not lymphocytes) are made in the bone marrow. Also called CML, chronic granulocytic leukemia, and chronic myeloid leukemia.
chronic myeloid leukemia (KRAH-nik MY-eh-loyd loo-KEE-mee-uh)
CML. A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells (not lymphocytes) are made in the bone marrow. Also called chronic myelogenous leukemia, CML, and chronic granulocytic leukemia.
chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (KRAH-nik MY-eh-loh-MAH-noh-SIH-tik loo-KEE-mee-uh)
A slowly progressing type of myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disease in which too many myelomonocytes (a type of white blood cell) are in the bone marrow, crowding out other normal blood cells, such as other white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Also called CMML.
chronic neutrophilic leukemia
A disease in which too many neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) are found in the blood. The extra neutrophils may cause the spleen and liver to become enlarged. Chronic neutrophilic leukemia may stay the same for many years or it may progress quickly to acute leukemia.
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (KRAH-nik ob-STRUK-tiv PUL-muh-NAYR-ee dih-ZEEZ)
COPD. A type of lung disease marked by permanent damage to tissues in the lungs, making it hard to breathe. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease includes chronic bronchitis, in which the bronchi (large air passages) are inflamed and scarred, and emphysema, in which the alveoli (tiny air sacs) are damaged. It develops over many years and is usually caused by cigarette smoking. Also called COPD.
chronic pain
Pain that can range from mild to severe, and persists or progresses over a long period of time.
chronic phase (KRAHN-ik fayz)
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 (KRAH-nik FAYZ KRAH-nik MY-eh-LAH-jeh-nus loo-KEE-mee-uh)
A phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia in which 5% or fewer of the cells in the blood and bone marrow are blast cells (immature blood cells). This phase may last from several months to several years, and there may be no symptoms of leukemia.
CHS 828
A drug that is being studied in the treatment of solid tumors.
CI-1033
A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. CI-1033 blocks the action of proteins called epidermal growth factor receptors, and may cause cancer cells to die. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Also called canertinib and canertinib dihydrochloride.
CI-958
A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. CI-958 binds to DNA and inserts itself into the DNA structure. It stops cells from repairing damage to DNA and from making more DNA, RNA, and protein. CI-958 may kill cancer cells. It is a type of DNA intercalator. Also called sedoxantrone trihydrochloride.
CI-980
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors. Also called mivobulin isethionate.
CI-994
A substance being studied in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Also called N-acetyldinaline.
cidofovir
A drug used in the treatment of infections caused by viruses.
cilengitide
A substance that is being studied as an anticancer and antiangiogenesis drug. Also called EMD 121974.
ciliary body (SIH-lee-ayr-ee ...)
A part of the middle layer of the wall of the eye. The ciliary body includes the ring-shaped muscle that changes the size of the pupil and the shape of the lens when the eye focuses. It also makes the fluid that fills the eye.
cimetidine
A drug usually used to treat stomach ulcers and heartburn. It is also commonly used in a regimen to prevent allergic reactions.
CIN
Growth of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. Numbers from 1 to 3 may be used to describe how abnormal the cells are and how much of the cervical tissue is involved. Also called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia.
CIN 1
A condition in which slightly abnormal cells grow on the thin layer of tissue that covers the cervix. These abnormal cells are not malignant (cancerous) but may become cancer. Also called cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia 1.
CIN 2
A condition in which moderately abnormal cells grow on the thin layer of tissue that covers the cervix. These abnormal cells are not malignant (cancerous) but may become cancer. Also called cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia 2.
CIN 3
Abnormal cells are found in the cervical epithelium (the innermost lining of the cervix). These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into nearby normal tissue. Also called stage 0 cervical carcinoma in situ and cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia 3.
Cipro
A drug that is used to treat infections caused by bacteria and is being studied in the treatment of bladder cancer. Cipro is a type of fluoroquinolone. Also called ciprofloxacin.
ciprofloxacin (sip-roe-FLOX-a-sin)
A drug that is used to treat infections caused by bacteria and is being studied in the treatment of bladder cancer. Ciprofloxacin is a type of fluoroquinolone. Also called Cipro.
circulation (ser-kyoo-LAY-shun)
In the body, the flow of blood through the heart and blood vessels, and the flow of lymph through the lymph vessels.
circulatory system (SER-kyoo-lah-tor-ee SIS-tem)
The system that contains the heart and the blood vessels and moves blood throughout the body. This system helps tissues get enough oxygen and nutrients, and it helps them get rid of waste products. The lymph system, which connects with the blood system, is often considered part of the circulatory system.
circumcision (SUR-kum-SIH-zhun)
Surgery to remove part or all of the foreskin (loose skin that covers the head of the penis).
cirrhosis
A type of chronic, progressive liver disease in which liver cells are replaced by scar tissue.
CIS
The CIS is the National Cancer Institute's link to the public, interpreting and explaining research findings in a clear and understandable manner, and providing personalized responses to specific questions about cancer. Access the CIS by calling 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237), or by using the LiveHelp instant-messaging service at https://cissecure.nci.nih.gov/livehelp/welcome.asp. Also called Cancer Information Service.
cisplatin (sis-PLA-tin)
A drug used to treat many types of cancer. Cisplatin contains the metal platinum. It kills cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing. Cisplatin is a type of alkylating agent.
citalopram (sy-TAL-oh-pram)
A drug used to treat depression. It belongs to the families of drugs called antidepressant agents and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Also called Celexa.
citric acid/potassium-sodium citrate (SIH-trik A-sid/poh-TAH-see-um-SOH-dee-um SIH-trayt)
A drug used in the treatment of metabolic acidosis (a disorder in which the blood is too acidic).
cladribine
An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.
clarithromycin
An antibiotic drug used in the treatment of infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called macrolides.
classical Hodgkin lymphoma (KLA-sih-kul HOJ-kin lim-FOH-muh)
The most common type of Hodgkin lymphoma, which is a cancer of the immune system. Classical Hodgkin lymphoma is marked by the presence of a type of cell called the Reed-Sternberg cell.
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