neoadjuvant therapy
Pronunciation: NEE-oh-AD-joo-vant
Treatment given before primary surgical intervention to shrink tumors and improve surgical outcomes.
Full Definition
Neoadjuvant therapy refers to systemic treatment administered prior to the primary therapeutic intervention, typically surgery. This approach may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy given with the intent to downsize the tumor, eliminate micrometastases, and potentially convert unresectable tumors to resectable ones. Neoadjuvant therapy is commonly used in breast cancer, rectal cancer, esophageal cancer, and other malignancies where preoperative treatment can improve surgical outcomes or allow for organ preservation. The response to neoadjuvant therapy also provides valuable prognostic information and can guide subsequent treatment decisions. Assessment of treatment response through imaging and pathological evaluation helps determine the effectiveness of the therapeutic regimen.
Usage
Usage note: Do not hyphenate 'neoadjuvant' unless used as compound modifier with another noun.
In Context
- "Neoadjuvant chemotherapy achieved significant tumor downstaging prior to resection." — Oncology note
- "The patient completed neoadjuvant therapy with excellent radiological response." — Treatment summary