refractory disease
Cancer that does not respond to initial treatment or shows resistance to standard therapeutic approaches.
Full Definition
Refractory disease describes cancer that fails to achieve the expected response to standard first-line therapy or shows primary resistance to treatment. In pediatric oncology, refractory disease is distinguished from relapsed disease, which refers to cancer that returns after an initial complete response. Primary refractory disease occurs when initial induction therapy fails to achieve remission, while secondary refractory disease develops when cancer becomes resistant to previously effective treatments. Children with refractory disease typically require alternative treatment approaches including experimental therapies, novel drug combinations, or investigational protocols. The prognosis for refractory pediatric cancers is generally poor, making early identification and aggressive intervention critical.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from 'relapsed disease' and specify whether primary or secondary refractory pattern.
In Context
- "The patient developed refractory disease after failing to achieve remission with standard induction therapy." — Oncology consultation note
- "Consider enrollment in a clinical trial for refractory acute myeloid leukemia." — Treatment recommendation