Complete Response
Also written as: CR — Complete Response
The disappearance of all detectable cancer following treatment, as measured by imaging or clinical examination.
Full Definition
Complete Response (CR) represents the most favorable treatment outcome in oncology, defined as the absence of all measurable and non-measurable disease on imaging studies and clinical examination. This determination is made according to standardized criteria such as RECIST (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors) or disease-specific response criteria. While CR indicates excellent treatment response, it does not necessarily equate to cure, as microscopic disease may persist below the detection threshold of current diagnostic methods.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize both words when referring to the formal response category.
In Context
- "Imaging after six cycles of chemotherapy demonstrated a Complete Response with no residual lymphadenopathy." — Radiology report
- "The Complete Response rate in the experimental arm was 32% compared to 18% in the control group." — Clinical trial publication