neoadjuvant therapy
Treatment given before primary surgical intervention to reduce tumor size and improve surgical outcomes.
Full Definition
Neoadjuvant therapy refers to systemic treatment administered prior to the primary therapeutic intervention, typically surgery, with the goal of reducing tumor burden and improving the likelihood of successful surgical resection. In thoracic oncology, neoadjuvant therapy may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy given before lung resection. This approach can downstage tumors, potentially convert unresectable tumors to resectable ones, and may improve overall survival outcomes. The response to neoadjuvant therapy also provides valuable prognostic information and can guide subsequent treatment decisions.
Usage
Usage note: Contrast with adjuvant therapy, which is given after primary treatment. Both terms are commonly confused in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient received neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to planned lobectomy for stage IIIA disease." — Treatment plan
- "Neoadjuvant immunotherapy achieved partial response, allowing for successful surgical resection." — Multidisciplinary team note