tumor infiltrating lymphocytes
Also written as: TILs — Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes
Immune cells present within tumor tissue that serve as prognostic indicators and potential therapeutic targets in oncology.
Full Definition
Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are lymphocytes that have migrated from blood into tumor tissue, representing the body's immune response to cancer. Their presence and density are increasingly recognized as important prognostic markers, particularly in breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and melanoma. High TIL counts often correlate with better treatment responses and improved survival outcomes. Pathologists assess TIL density as part of routine tumor evaluation, and this information influences treatment decisions including immunotherapy selection.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as TILs in medical literature.
In Context
- "The pathology report noted abundant tumor infiltrating lymphocytes suggesting a robust immune response." — histopathology report
- "High levels of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes were associated with improved response to neoadjuvant therapy." — clinical research paper