Intermediate
Technical
IVT
neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Also written as: NACT — Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Systemic treatment administered before surgical intervention to reduce tumor burden.
Full Definition
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) refers to systemic anticancer treatment given prior to the primary surgical intervention. In gynecologic oncology, this approach is commonly used for advanced ovarian cancer when primary debulking surgery is not feasible or would be suboptimal. The goal is to reduce tumor burden, making subsequent surgery more effective and potentially less morbid. This strategy contrasts with adjuvant chemotherapy, which is given after surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from adjuvant therapy, which follows surgery.
In Context
- "The patient received three cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy before interval debulking surgery." — treatment summary
- "Neoadjuvant chemotherapy resulted in significant tumor response as evidenced by declining CA-125 levels." — clinical progress note
Also known as
NACT
preoperative chemotherapy
Contrasted with
adjuvant chemotherapy
Don't confuse with
induction chemotherapy
salvage chemotherapy