Adjuvant therapy

Definition

Adjuvant therapy is additional treatment given after the primary treatment to lower the risk of the cancer returning. It often involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adjuvant therapy aims to eliminate residual cancer cells that may not be detectable but could cause relapse.
2. Common cancers treated with adjuvant therapy include breast cancer, colon cancer, and melanoma.
3. The timing of adjuvant therapy is crucial and usually follows surgery or initial chemotherapy.
4. Effectiveness of adjuvant therapy depends on factors like the type and stage of cancer, and patient's overall health.
5. Side effects can vary depending on the type of adjuvant therapy used but may include fatigue, nausea, and increased risk of infection.

Review Questions

• What is the main goal of adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment?
• Name three types of cancers where adjuvant therapy is commonly used.
• Why is the timing important when administering adjuvant therapy?

Related terms

Neoadjuvant Therapy:

Treatment given before the primary treatment to shrink a tumor.

Chemotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy: The use of high-energy radiation to kill or damage cancer cells.