Medical Oncology Glossary
100 terms total — 8 showing — Last updated 15 Sep 2026
Ki-67 index
A measure of cellular proliferation expressed as the percentage of Ki-67 positive tumor cells, used in cancer prognosis and treatment decisions.
anastomosis
Surgical connection between two structures, particularly bowel segments following tumor resection.
dose-limiting toxicity
Severe adverse effect that prevents further dose escalation in clinical trials.
microsatellite instability
Genetic condition affecting DNA repair that influences cancer treatment selection.
microsatellite instability-high
A tumor phenotype characterized by widespread mutations in repetitive DNA sequences, predictive of immunotherapy respons...
microsatellite stable
Describes tumors with intact DNA mismatch repair mechanisms, typically associated with lower response to immunotherapy.
mucositis
Inflammation and ulceration of mucous membranes caused by cancer treatment.
myelosuppression
Suppression of bone marrow function resulting in decreased production of blood cells, commonly caused by chemotherapy or...
radiosensitivity
Degree to which cells or tissues are susceptible to damage from ionizing radiation exposure.