tumor escape mechanism
Molecular pathways by which cancer cells evade therapeutic intervention or immune surveillance.
Full Definition
Tumor escape mechanisms encompass the diverse molecular and cellular strategies cancer cells employ to circumvent therapeutic pressure or immune system recognition. These mechanisms include upregulation of drug efflux pumps, activation of alternative signaling pathways, immune checkpoint activation, and metabolic reprogramming. Understanding these escape routes is crucial for precision oncology as they inform combination therapy strategies and resistance monitoring. Documentation of escape mechanisms in clinical reports helps guide sequential treatment decisions and clinical trial enrollment.
Usage
Usage note: Use singular 'mechanism' when referring to a specific pathway; plural when discussing multiple pathways.
In Context
- "Analysis revealed multiple tumor escape mechanisms contributing to treatment failure." — Molecular tumor board discussion
- "The patient's tumor developed novel escape mechanisms after six months of targeted therapy." — Clinical case report