adjuvant therapy
Additional treatment given after primary surgery to reduce risk of cancer recurrence.
Full Definition
Adjuvant therapy refers to supplementary cancer treatment administered after the primary treatment (usually surgery) when there is no clinically detectable disease remaining. The goal is to eliminate microscopic cancer cells that may remain and reduce the risk of recurrence. In gastrointestinal oncology, adjuvant therapy commonly consists of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both, depending on the tumor type and stage. The decision to give adjuvant treatment is based on pathological findings, stage, and patient factors that indicate high risk of recurrence despite complete surgical resection.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from neoadjuvant (preoperative) therapy.
In Context
- "Adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended given the positive lymph nodes." — Treatment plan
- "The patient completed six months of adjuvant FOLFOX therapy." — Follow-up note