refractory

Full Definition

Refractory refers to cancer that fails to respond to initial treatment or becomes resistant to therapy that previously worked. This term describes tumors that show no significant reduction in size or continue to grow despite appropriate treatment. Refractory disease can occur as primary resistance (failure to respond from the start) or secondary resistance (loss of response after initial benefit). Understanding refractory mechanisms is crucial for developing alternative treatment strategies and novel therapeutic approaches.

Usage

Usage note: Often paired with 'relapsed' as 'relapsed/refractory' but has distinct meaning.

In Context

• "The patient's refractory disease required salvage chemotherapy." — Treatment plan modification
• "Primary refractory lymphoma has a poor prognosis with standard therapy." — Clinical review