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Intermediate Technical IVT

locoregional recurrence

Return of cancer in the same anatomical region as the primary tumor or adjacent lymph nodes.

Full Definition

Locoregional recurrence refers to the reappearance of cancer within the original tumor bed, surgical scar, or regional lymph node basins following treatment. This pattern of recurrence is distinguished from distant metastases and has different implications for treatment options and prognosis. Locoregional recurrences may be amenable to salvage surgery or regional therapies, whereas distant recurrences typically require systemic treatment. The time interval to locoregional recurrence and the pattern of failure provide important prognostic information.

Usage

Usage note: Clearly distinguish between local recurrence (tumor bed) and regional recurrence (lymph nodes) when possible.

In Context

  • "Imaging revealed locoregional recurrence in the left axillary lymph nodes eighteen months post-mastectomy." — Radiology report
  • "The patient developed locoregional recurrence amenable to salvage radiation therapy." — Oncology consultation note

Also known as

regional recurrence local-regional failure

Contrasted with

distant metastases systemic recurrence

Don't confuse with

local recurrence regional progression

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