Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
cytoreduction
Treatment aimed at reducing the number of abnormal cells in the blood or bone marrow before definitive therapy.
Full Definition
Cytoreduction refers to therapeutic interventions designed to decrease the burden of abnormal cells, particularly in hematologic malignancies, before initiating primary treatment. This approach is commonly used in conditions like acute leukemia with high white blood cell counts or chronic myeloid leukemia before starting targeted therapy. Methods include hydroxyurea, leukapheresis, or low-dose chemotherapy. The goal is to prevent complications such as leukostasis while preparing the patient for more definitive treatment.
In Context
- "Cytoreduction with hydroxyurea was initiated prior to starting imatinib therapy." — Treatment protocol
- "The patient required urgent cytoreduction due to hyperleukocytosis-related complications." — Emergency consultation note
Also known as
debulking
cell reduction therapy
Don't confuse with
cytolysis
cytotoxic therapy