Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
clonal evolution
Pronunciation: KLOH-nal evolution
The acquisition of additional genetic abnormalities by malignant cell clones over time, leading to disease progression.
Full Definition
Clonal evolution refers to the progressive accumulation of genetic and cytogenetic abnormalities in cancer cell populations over time, leading to increased genetic complexity and often more aggressive disease behavior. In hematologic malignancies, this process can result in treatment resistance, transformation to more aggressive subtypes, or relapse with additional chromosomal abnormalities. Monitoring clonal evolution through serial cytogenetic and molecular studies helps guide treatment decisions and prognosis assessment.
In Context
- "Clonal evolution was evident with the emergence of del(17p) at disease relapse." — Cytogenetics report
- "Serial FISH studies monitored for clonal evolution during treatment." — Monitoring protocol
Also known as
genetic progression
cytogenetic evolution
Contrasted with
genetic stability
Don't confuse with
clonal expansion
disease progression