molecular residual disease
Also written as: MRD — molecular residual disease
Submicroscopic cancer cells detected through sensitive molecular techniques after treatment when imaging shows complete response.
Full Definition
Molecular residual disease represents cancer cells that remain after treatment but are undetectable by conventional imaging or clinical examination, requiring highly sensitive molecular detection methods for identification. This concept has become increasingly important in precision oncology as liquid biopsy technologies can detect circulating tumor DNA at levels corresponding to extremely small tumor burdens. Detection of molecular residual disease often precedes clinical or radiographic recurrence by months, providing opportunities for early intervention and treatment modification. The term is becoming standardized across multiple cancer types as monitoring technologies improve.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MRD, but distinguish from 'minimal residual disease' used in hematologic contexts.
In Context
- "Molecular residual disease was detected six months prior to radiographic recurrence using circulating tumor DNA analysis." — Clinical trial report
- "The absence of molecular residual disease at three months post-surgery correlated with improved progression-free survival." — Research publication