Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
adjuvant therapy
Additional treatment given after primary surgery to reduce cancer recurrence risk.
Full Definition
Supplemental cancer treatment administered following primary surgical intervention to eliminate residual microscopic disease and improve cure rates. In urologic oncology, adjuvant therapy may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy, depending on the cancer type and risk factors. The goal is to target potential metastatic cells that may remain after surgical resection but are undetectable by current imaging or laboratory methods.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'neoadjuvant' (before surgery) and 'salvage' (for recurrence) therapy.
In Context
- "Adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended for high-risk bladder cancer patients after cystectomy." — Treatment guideline
- "The benefit of adjuvant radiation therapy in renal cell carcinoma remains controversial." — Research review
Also known as
additional therapy
Contrasted with
neoadjuvant therapy
primary treatment
Don't confuse with
salvage therapy
palliative therapy