NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

379 results found for: D

D&C: A procedure to scrape and remove tissue from the inner lining of the uterus. The cervix is dilated (made larger) and a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) is inserted into the uterus to remove tissue. A tissue sample may then be checked under a microscope for signs of disease, such as infection or cancer. A D&C may also be done after a miscarriage or to treat certain conditions, such as abnormal bleeding. Also called dilatation and curettage and dilation and curettage.
D-1MT: A substance being studied in the treatment of melanoma and many other types of cancer. D-1MT blocks the breakdown of the amino acid tryptophan, which is needed for T cells (a type of immune system cell) to kill tumor cells. Giving D-1MT to patients who have received chemotherapy for cancer may help kill more tumor cells. It is a type of enzyme inhibitor and immunosuppressant. Also called 1-methyl-d-tryptophan.
D-20761: A synthetic luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) antagonist that suppresses LH and sex steroid levels.
D-cycloserine: (...SY-kloh-SAYR-een); A drug used to treat tuberculosis. It is also being studied in the treatment of pain and nerve problems (numbness, tingling) caused by chemotherapy and in the treatment of low back pain, autism, certain anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia. D-cycloserine is a type of antibiotic. Also called Seromycin.
DA-EPOCH-R: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin), and rituximab. During each treatment cycle, the doses of some of the drugs may be increased or decreased to allow the patient to receive the dose that works the best with the fewest side effects. Also called DA-EPOCH-R regimen, dose-adjusted EPOCH-R, and dose-adjusted EPOCH-R regimen.
DA-EPOCH-R regimen: (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin), and rituximab. During each treatment cycle, the doses of some of the drugs may be increased or decreased to allow the patient to receive the dose that works the best with the fewest side effects. Also called DA-EPOCH-R, dose-adjusted EPOCH-R, and dose-adjusted EPOCH-R regimen.
da-huang: (dah-hwong); The root of this plant has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems. It may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. The scientific name is Rheum palmatum or Rheum officinale. Also called Chinese rhubarb, Indian rhubarb, rhubarb, and Turkish rhubarb.
dabrafenib mesylate: (duh-BRA-feh-nib MEH-zih-layt); A drug used alone or with trametinib to treat low-grade glioma (a type of brain tumor) in children aged 1 year and older and certain types of anaplastic thyroid cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, and other solid tumors that have a certain mutation (change) in the BRAF gene. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Dabrafenib mesylate blocks certain proteins made by the mutated BRAF gene, which may help keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of kinase inhibitor. Also called Tafinlar.
Dabska tumor: (DAB-skuh TOO-mer); A rare, slow-growing tumor of blood vessels that forms in or under the skin anywhere on the body. Dabska tumors may appear as firm, raised, purplish bumps, which may be small or large. They usually do not spread to other parts of the body. Dabska tumors can occur in children and adults. They are a type of vascular tumor. Also called papillary intralymphatic angioendothelioma.
DACA: A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called acridine carboxamide.
dacarbazine: (duh-KAR-buh-zeen); A drug used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma that did not get better with other anticancer drugs and melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Dacarbazine damages the cell’s DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of alkylating agent.
dacliximab: (duh-KLIK-sih-mab); A drug used to keep the body from rejecting kidney transplants. It is also being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer and other conditions. Dacliximab binds to receptors for a protein called interleukin-2, which are found on some types of immune cells and cancer cells. This may help suppress the body’s immune response and it may help kill cancer cells. Dacliximab is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called daclizumab and Zenapax.
daclizumab: (duh-KLIH-zoo-mab); A drug used to keep the body from rejecting kidney transplants. It is also being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer and other conditions. Daclizumab binds to receptors for a protein called interleukin-2, which are found on some types of immune cells and cancer cells. This may help suppress the body’s immune response and it may help kill cancer cells. Daclizumab is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called dacliximab and Zenapax.
Dacogen: (DA-koh-jen); A drug used to treat adults with myelodysplastic syndromes, including chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Dacogen stops cells from making DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimetabolite. Also called decitabine.
dacomitinib: (DA-koh-MIH-tih-nib); A drug used to treat non-small cell lung cancer that has spread, has not already been treated, and has certain mutations (changes) in the EGFR gene. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Dacomitinib blocks certain proteins, which may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Also called PF-00299804 and Vizimpro.
dactinomycin: (DAK-tih-noh-MY-sin); A drug that comes from the bacterium Streptomyces parvulus and is used alone or with other drugs to treat adults and children with Ewing sarcoma, gestational trophoblastic tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Wilms tumor, or certain types of testicular cancer and adults with certain types of solid tumors. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Dactinomycin damages the cell’s DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antineoplastic antibiotic. Also called actinomycin D and Cosmegen.
daidzein: (DAYD-zine); An isoflavone found in soy products. Soy isoflavones are being studied in the prevention of cancer.
dalteparin sodium: (dul-TEH-puh-rin SOH-dee-um); A drug used to prevent blood clots from forming or to treat blood clots that have formed in patients with cancer or other conditions. Dalteparin sodium is a type of anticoagulant. Also called Fragmin.
danazol: (DA-nuh-zole); A synthetic hormone that is a type of androgen and is used to treat endometriosis. It is being evaluated in the treatment of endometrial cancer.
Danyelza: (dan-YEL-zah); A drug used with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) to treat children aged 1 year and older and adults with certain types of high-risk neuroblastoma in the bone or bone marrow that came back or did not get better with other treatment. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Danyelza binds to a substance called GD2, which is found on some types of cancer cells. Danyelza may block GD2 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called naxitamab.
dapsone: (DAP-sone); A drug used to treat acne. It is also used to treat other types of skin diseases and certain bacterial infections, such as leprosy. It blocks bacteria from making a substance that they need to grow. Dapsone is a type of antibacterial agent and a type of anti-inflammatory agent.
daptomycin: (dap-toh-MY-sin); A drug used to treat certain bacterial skin and bloodstream infections in adults. Daptomycin is also being studied in the treatment of fever and neutropenia (an abnormal decrease in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell) in patients with cancer. It is a type of antibiotic. Also called Cubicin.
DAR: A log of study drugs kept by an investigator running a clinical trial. It lists many things about each drug, including the drug name, lot number, expiration date, the amount of drug received, used, returned, or thrown away, and the amount left. DARs help make sure that a clinical trial is done safely and correctly. DARs are required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Also called Drug Accountability Record.
daratumumab: (DAYR-uh-TOOM-yoo-mab); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat adults with multiple myeloma. It is used in patients whose cancer is newly diagnosed and who can or cannot be treated with an autologous stem cell transplant. Daratumumab is also used in patients whose cancer came back or did not get better after treatment with one or more anticancer therapies. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Daratumumab binds to a protein called CD38, which is found on some types of immune cells and cancer cells, including myeloma cells. Daratumumab may block CD38 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called Darzalex.
daratumumab and hyaluronidase: (DAYR-uh-TOOM-yoo-mab … HY-al-yoo-RAH-nih-days); A combination of two drugs used alone or with other drugs to treat adults with certain types of multiple myeloma or light chain amyloidosis. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Daratumumab binds to a protein called CD38, which is found on some types of immune cells and cancer cells, including myeloma cells. Daratumumab may block CD38 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. Hyaluronidase allows daratumumab to be given by injection under the skin. Daratumumab and hyaluronidase can be given in less time than daratumumab alone, which is given as an infusion. Also called Darzalex Faspro.
darbepoetin alfa: (dar-bee-POH-ee-tin AL-fuh); A drug used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease and some types of chemotherapy. Darbepoetin alfa is a form of erythropoietin (a substance naturally made by the kidneys) that is made in the laboratory. It helps the bone marrow make more red blood cells. Darbepoetin alfa is a type of antianemic and a type of erythropoiesis-stimulating agent. Also called Aranesp.
dark-field microscope: (... MY-kroh-SKOPE); A microscope (device used to magnify small objects) in which objects are lit at a very low angle from the side so that the background appears dark and the objects show up against this dark background.
darolutamide: (DAR-oh-LOO-tuh-mide); A drug used alone or with docetaxel to treat adults with certain types of prostate cancer. Darolutamide is used in patients whose cancer has spread to other parts of the body and responds to treatment that lowers testosterone levels or whose cancer has not spread to other parts of the body and no longer responds to treatment that lowers testosterone levels. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Darolutamide binds to proteins called androgen receptors, which are found in some prostate cancer cells. These proteins bind to androgens (male hormones) and may cause cancer cells to grow. Darolutamide blocks these proteins and may keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of antiandrogen. Also called Nubeqa.
Darzalex: (DAR-zah-lex); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat adults with multiple myeloma. It is used in patients whose cancer is newly diagnosed and who can or cannot be treated with an autologous stem cell transplant. Darzalex is also used in patients whose cancer came back or did not get better after treatment with one or more anticancer therapies. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Darzalex binds to a protein called CD38, which is found on some types of immune cells and cancer cells, including myeloma cells. Darzalex may block CD38 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called daratumumab.
Darzalex Faspro: (DAR-zah-lex FAS-proh); A combination of daratumumab and hyaluronidase used alone or with other drugs to treat adults with certain types of multiple myeloma or light chain amyloidosis. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Daratumumab binds to a protein called CD38, which is found on some types of immune cells and cancer cells, including myeloma cells. Daratumumab may block CD38 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. Hyaluronidase allows daratumumab to be given by injection under the skin. Darzalex Faspro can be given in less time than daratumumab alone, which is given as an infusion. Also called daratumumab and hyaluronidase.
dasatinib: (da-SA-tih-nib); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat adults and children aged 1 year and older with certain types of chronic myeloid leukemia or acute lymphoblastic leukemia that are Philadelphia chromosome positive. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Dasatinib blocks BCR::ABL1 and other proteins, which may help keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Also called BMS-354825 and Sprycel.
Data and Safety Monitoring Board: (DAY-tuh ... SAYF-tee MAH-nih-ter-ing bord); An impartial group that oversees a clinical trial and reviews the results to see if they are acceptable. This group determines if the trial should be changed or closed. Also called DSMB.
datopotamab deruxtecan: (DA-toh-POH-tuh-mab DEH-rux-TEE-kan); A drug used to treat adults with breast cancer that cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body, has been treated with other therapies, and is hormone receptor positive (HR+) and HER2-negative. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Datopotamab deruxtecan contains a monoclonal antibody called datopotamab that binds to a protein called TROP2, which is found on some cancer cells. It also contains an anticancer drug called deruxtecan, which may help kill cancer cells. Datopotamab deruxtecan is a type of antibody-drug conjugate. Also called Datroway.
Datroway: (DA-troh-way); A drug used to treat adults with breast cancer that cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body, has been treated with other therapies, and is hormone receptor positive (HR+) and HER2-negative. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Datroway contains a monoclonal antibody called datopotamab that binds to a protein called TROP2, which is found on some cancer cells. It also contains an anticancer drug called deruxtecan, which may help kill cancer cells. Datroway is a type of antibody-drug conjugate. Also called datopotamab deruxtecan.
daunomycin hydrochloride: (DAW-noh-MY-sin HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A drug that comes from the bacterium Streptomyces coeruleorubidus and is used with other drugs as remission induction therapy to treat adults with acute myeloid leukemia and adults and children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Daunomycin hydrochloride blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Daunorubicin is the active ingredient of daunorubicin hydrochloride. Also called daunorubicin hydrochloride.
daunorubicin hydrochloride: (DAW-noh-ROO-bih-sin HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A drug that comes from the bacterium Streptomyces coeruleorubidus and is used with other drugs as remission induction therapy to treat adults with acute myeloid leukemia and adults and children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Daunorubicin hydrochloride blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Daunorubicin is the active ingredient of daunorubicin hydrochloride. Also called daunomycin hydrochloride.
daunorubicin hydrochloride and cytarabine liposome: (DAW-noh-ROO-bih-sin HY-droh-KLOR-ide … sy-TAYR-uh-been LY-poh-some); A form of the anticancer drugs daunorubicin hydrochloride and cytarabine that is contained inside very tiny, fat-like particles and is used to treat adults with certain types of newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia. Daunorubicin hydrochloride and cytarabine liposome may have fewer side effects and work better than other forms of these drugs. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Daunorubicin hydrochloride and cytarabine liposome is a type of anthracycline antibiotic, a type of topoisomerase inhibitor, and a type of antimetabolite. Also called Vyxeos.
Daurismo: (DOOR-is-moh); A drug used with low-dose cytarabine to treat acute myeloid leukemia that is newly diagnosed. It is used in patients who are 75 years and older or in patients who cannot be treated with other anticancer drugs. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Daurismo blocks a type of protein involved in cell growth and repair and may block the growth of cancer cells. It is a type of hedgehog signaling pathway antagonist. Also called glasdegib maleate.
DBA: A very rare disorder in which the bone marrow doesn’t make enough red blood cells. It is usually seen in the first year of life. Patients may have deformed thumbs and other physical problems. They also have an increased risk of leukemia and sarcoma, especially osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Patients with DBA may have a mutation (change) in one of the genes that make proteins found in the cell’s ribosomes. Also called Blackfan–Diamond anemia, congenital hypoplastic anemia, congenital pure red cell aplasia, Diamond-Blackfan anemia, erythrogenesis imperfecta, and inherited erythroblastopenia.
DBE: A procedure used to look at the inside of the small intestine. A special instrument made up of two tubes (one inside the other) is inserted through the mouth or rectum and into the small intestine. The inside tube, which is an endoscope with a light and lens for viewing, is moved through part of the small intestine, and a balloon at the end of it is inflated to keep the endoscope in place. Next, the outer tube is moved through the small intestine to reach the end of the endoscope, and a balloon at the end of the outer tube is inflated to keep it in place. Then, the balloon at the end of the endoscope is deflated, and the endoscope is moved through the next part of the small intestine. These steps are repeated many times as the tubes move through the whole small intestine. This allows the doctor to see all of the small intestine. Tissue samples may be removed so they can be checked under a microscope for signs of disease. Also called double balloon endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy.
DBVE: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used with radiation therapy to treat childhood Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), bleomycin sulfate, vincristine sulfate, and etoposide. Also called ABVE, ABVE regimen, and DBVE regimen.
DBVE regimen: (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used with radiation therapy to treat childhood Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), bleomycin sulfate, vincristine sulfate, and etoposide. Also called ABVE, ABVE regimen, and DBVE.
DBVE-PC: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used with radiation therapy to treat childhood Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), bleomycin sulfate, vincristine sulfate, etoposide, prednisone, and cyclophosphamide. Also called ABVE-PC, ABVE-PC regimen, and DBVE-PC regimen.
DBVE-PC regimen: (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used with radiation therapy to treat childhood Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), bleomycin sulfate, vincristine sulfate, etoposide, prednisone, and cyclophosphamide. Also called ABVE-PC, ABVE-PC regimen, and DBVE-PC.
DCF: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat certain types of head and neck cancer and stomach cancer. It includes the drugs docetaxel (Taxotere), cisplatin (Platinol), and fluorouracil. Also called docetaxel-cisplatin-fluorouracil, Taxotere-Platinol-fluorouracil, TPF, and TPF regimen.
DCIS: A condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct. The abnormal cells have not spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. In some cases, DCIS may become invasive breast cancer and spread to other tissues. At this time, there is no way to know which abnormal cells could become invasive. Also called ductal carcinoma in situ and intraductal breast carcinoma.
DDB2 gene: (… jeen); A gene that makes a protein involved in many cell functions, including the repair of damaged DNA. Mutations (changes) in the DDB2 gene may cause cells to lose their ability to repair damaged DNA, which may lead to abnormal cell growth. DDB2 gene mutations have been found in an inherited condition called xeroderma pigmentosum. People with this condition have a very high risk of developing skin cancer and other types of cancer.
DDS: A rare disorder that causes kidney failure before age 3, abnormal development of the sexual organs, and, in most cases, Wilms tumor (a type of kidney cancer). Children with Denys-Drash syndrome are also at high risk of some other types of cancer. Also called Denys-Drash syndrome.
de Gramont regimen: (dey gruh-MON REH-jih-men); A chemotherapy combination used to treat colorectal cancer. It is also used with radiation therapy to treat esophageal cancer and stomach cancer. It includes the drugs fluorouracil and leucovorin calcium.
de novo: (deh NOH-voh); In cancer, the first occurrence of cancer in the body.
de novo mutation: (deh NOH-voh myoo-TAY-shun); A term used to describe a change in the DNA sequence of a gene that is seen for the first time in a person and has not appeared in previous generations. A de novo mutation can explain how a person can have a genetic condition that did not occur in his or her parents. A de novo mutation can occur in an egg or sperm cell of a parent, in the fertilized egg soon after the egg and sperm unite, or in another type of cell during embryo development. A person who has a de novo mutation may pass the mutation to his or her child. Some de novo mutations may lead to cancer or other diseases. Also called de novo variant, new mutation, and new variant.
de novo variant: (deh NOH-voh VAYR-ee-unt); A term used to describe a change in the DNA sequence of a gene that is seen for the first time in a person and has not appeared in previous generations. A de novo variant can explain how a person can have a genetic condition that did not occur in his or her parents. A de novo variant can occur in an egg or sperm cell of a parent, in the fertilized egg soon after the egg and sperm unite, or in another type of cell during embryo development. A person who has a de novo variant may pass the mutation to his or her child. Some de novo variants may lead to cancer or other diseases. Also called de novo mutation, new mutation, and new variant.
de qi sensation: (duh chee sen-SAY-shun); Tingling, numbness, heaviness, and other feelings that occur after an acupuncture needle has been properly placed in the body. The needle may be twirled, moved up and down at different speeds and depths, heated, or charged with a small electric current until the de qi sensation occurs.
death cap: (deth kap); A type of poisonous mushroom that has harmful effects on the kidneys and liver. It is responsible for most fatal cases of mushroom poisoning. Also called Amanita phalloides.
death rattle: (... RA-tul); A gurgling sound that comes from the back of the throat of a dying person. It is caused by the build-up of saliva and mucus in the throat and upper airways when the person is too weak to cough.
death receptor 4: (… reh-SEP-ter 4); A protein on the surface of certain cells that binds another protein called TRAIL, which may kill some cancer cells. An increase in the amount or activity of death receptor 4 on cancer cells may kill more cells. Also called DR4, TRAIL receptor 1, TRAIL-R1, and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 10A.
death receptor 5: (… reh-SEP-ter 5); A protein on the surface of certain cells that binds another protein called TRAIL, which may kill some cancer cells. An increase in the amount or activity of death receptor 5 on cancer cells may kill more cells. Also called DR5, TRAIL receptor 2, TRAIL-R2, and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 10B.
DEB: A rare, inherited disorder in which blisters form on the skin and the moist inner lining of some organs and body cavities. The blisters usually appear at birth and may occur on certain parts of the body (such as the hands, feet, elbows, and knees) or all over the body (including the mouth, esophagus, and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, the eyes, and the genitourinary tract). This can lead to scarring in the affected areas and thinning of the skin. Other signs and symptoms include small white bumps on the skin; deformities in the fingers, toes, nails, teeth, and joints; trouble chewing and swallowing; vision loss and other eye problems; anemia; slow growth; and poor nutrition. Some people with DEB have a very high risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer at an early age. There are several types of DEB. It is caused by a mutation (change) in the COL7A1 gene. Also called dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.
debulking: (dee-BUL-king); Surgical removal of as much of a tumor as possible. Debulking may increase the chance that chemotherapy or radiation therapy will kill all the tumor cells. It may also be done to relieve symptoms or help the patient live longer. Also called tumor debulking.
deceased: (dih-SEEST); Dead.
decitabine: (deh-SY-tuh-been); A drug used to treat adults with myelodysplastic syndromes, including chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Decitabine stops cells from making DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimetabolite. Also called Dacogen.
decitabine and cedazuridine: (deh-SY-tuh-been … SEE-daz-YOOR-ih-deen); A combination of two drugs used to treat adults with myelodysplastic syndromes, including chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Decitabine stops cells from making DNA, which may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. Cedazuridine prevents the breakdown of decitabine in the body, which may allow more cancer cells to be killed. Decitabine and cedazuridine is a type of antimetabolite and a type of cytidine deaminase inhibitor. Also called Inqovi.
Declomycin: (DEH-kloh-MY-sin); A substance being studied as a way to detect bone growth in patients receiving bisphosphonates (a type of drug used to treat bone pain caused by some types of cancer) for breast cancer. It binds to newly formed bone. A biopsy is done and bone growth is measured using a special microscope. Declomycin also blocks the uptake of water by the kidney and can bind calcium in bones. It is a type of tetracycline antibiotic and a type of bone-labeling agent. Also called demeclocycline hydrochloride.
decortication: (deh-KOR-tih-KAY-shun); Removal of part or all of the external surface of an organ.
decubitus ulcer: (deh-KYOO-bih-tus UL-ser); Damage to an area of the skin caused by constant pressure on the area for a long time. This pressure can lessen blood flow to the affected area, which may lead to tissue damage and tissue death. Decubitus ulcers often form on the skin covering bony areas of the body, such as the back, tailbone, hips, buttocks, elbows, heels, and ankles. Patients who are not able to get out of bed or change their position, or who always use a wheelchair have an increased risk of decubitus ulcers. Signs and symptoms include changes in skin color and swelling, warmth, tenderness, and pain in the affected area. If untreated, the skin may crack, blister, or break open and form a sore or ulcer, which may have pus-like drainage. Decubitus ulcers often heal slowly and if not treated can damage tissues deep under the skin, including fat, muscle, and bone. Also called bedsore, pressure sore, and pressure ulcer.
deductible: (dee-DUK-tih-bul); The amount of money that a patient with health insurance pays for health care services before the health insurance plan begins to pay. Health care services may include visits to the doctor, laboratory tests, prescription medicines, and hospital stays. Not all health care plans require a deductible. Usually, plans with higher deductibles have lower monthly premiums (payments).
deep breathing: (… BREE-thing); A relaxation technique in which a person focuses on taking slow, deep breaths. Deep breathing involves breathing in slowly through the nose and then out through the mouth using the diaphragm (the thin muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen) and abdominal muscles. This helps boost the amount of oxygen in the blood, lowers blood pressure and heart rate, and reduces muscle tension. Deep breathing may be used to help relieve stress, pain, and anxiety. Also called abdominal breathing and diaphragmatic breathing.
deep sedation: (… seh-DAY-shun); A level of sedation in which a person is in a deep sleep, loses feeling, and is hard to wake up. Deep sedation is caused by special drugs and is used to help relieve anxiety during certain medical or surgical procedures. Oxygen may also be given to help the patient breathe and drugs that relieve pain may be given at the same time. The patient usually does not remember the procedure.
deep vein thrombosis: (… vayn throm-BOH-sis); The formation of a blood clot in a deep vein of the leg or lower pelvis. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected area. Also called DVT.
defecation: (DEH-feh-kay-shun); Movement of feces (undigested food, bacteria, mucus, and cells from the lining of the intestines) through the bowel and out the anus. Also called bowel movement.
deferasirox: (deh-FER-a-ser-ox); A drug used to treat too much iron in the blood caused by blood transfusions. It is being studied in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes (a group of diseases in which the bone marrow does not make enough healthy blood cells) and other conditions. Deferasirox binds to extra iron in the blood. The drug and the iron are passed from the body in urine. It is a type of chelating agent. Also called Exjade.
deferoxamine: (DEH-feh-ROK-suh-meen); An iron-chelating agent that removes iron from tumors by inhibiting DNA synthesis and causing cancer cell death. It is used in conjunction with other anticancer agents in pediatric neuroblastoma therapy.
deferred therapy: (deh-FURD THAYR-uh-pee); Closely watching a patient’s condition but not giving treatment unless symptoms appear or change, or there are changes in test results. Deferred therapy avoids problems that may be caused by treatments such as radiation or surgery. It is used to find early signs that the condition is getting worse. During deferred therapy, patients may be given certain exams and tests. It is sometimes used in prostate cancer. Also called expectant management.
defibrotide sodium: (dee-FY-broh-tide SOH-dee-um); A drug used to treat hepatic veno-occlusive disease (a condition in which small veins in the liver are blocked) in adults and children who also have kidney or lung problems after receiving a stem cell transplant. Defibrotide sodium may affect the cells that line the inside of blood vessels and may help improve blood flow inside the liver. Also called Defitelio.
deficiency: (deh-FIH-shun-see); In medicine, a shortage of a substance (such as a vitamin or mineral) needed by the body.
deficient DNA mismatch repair: (deh-FIH-shunt ... MIS-match reh-PAYR); Describes cells that have mutations (changes) in certain genes that are involved in correcting mistakes made when DNA is copied in a cell. DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficient cells usually have many DNA mutations, which may lead to cancer. DNA MMR deficiency is most common in colorectal cancer, other types of gastrointestinal cancer, and endometrial cancer, but it may also be found in cancers of the breast, prostate, bladder, and thyroid and in an inherited disorder called Lynch syndrome. Knowing if a tumor is DNA MMR deficient may help plan treatment or predict how well the tumor will respond to treatment. Also called deficient mismatch repair, dMMR, mismatch repair deficiency, and MMR deficiency.
deficient mismatch repair: (deh-FIH-shunt MIS-match reh-PAYR); Describes cells that have mutations (changes) in certain genes that are involved in correcting mistakes made when DNA is copied in a cell. Mismatch repair (MMR) deficient cells usually have many DNA mutations, which may lead to cancer. MMR deficiency is most common in colorectal cancer, other types of gastrointestinal cancer, and endometrial cancer, but it may also be found in cancers of the breast, prostate, bladder, and thyroid and in an inherited disorder called Lynch syndrome. Knowing if a tumor is MMR deficient may help plan treatment or predict how well the tumor will respond to treatment. Also called deficient DNA mismatch repair, dMMR, mismatch repair deficiency, and MMR deficiency.
definitive diagnosis: (deh-FIH-nih-tiv DY-ug-NOH-sis); A final diagnosis that is made after getting the results of tests, such as blood tests and biopsies, that are done to find out if a certain disease or condition is present.
definitive treatment: (deh-FIH-nih-tiv TREET-ment); The treatment plan for a disease or disorder that has been chosen as the best one for a patient after all other choices have been considered.
Defitelio: (DEH-fih-TEH-lee-oh); A drug used to treat hepatic veno-occlusive disease (a condition in which small veins in the liver are blocked) in adults and children who also have kidney or lung problems after receiving a stem cell transplant. Defitelio may affect the cells that line the inside of blood vessels and may help improve blood flow inside the liver. Also called defibrotide sodium.
degarelix acetate: (DEH-guh-REH-lix A-seh-tayt); A drug used to treat advanced prostate cancer. Degarelix acetate binds to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors in the pituitary gland. This causes the testicles to stop making testosterone. Degarelix acetate may stop the growth of cancer cells that need testosterone to grow. It is a type of GnRH antagonist. Also called Firmagon.
degenerative disease: (deh-JEH-neh-ruh-tiv dih-ZEEZ); A disease in which the function or structure of the affected tissues or organs changes for the worse over time. Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer disease are examples.
dehydration: (dee-hy-DRAY-shun); A condition that occurs when the body loses too much water and other fluids that it needs to work normally. Dehydration is usually caused by severe diarrhea and vomiting, but it may also be caused by not drinking enough water or other fluids, sweating too much, fever, urinating too much, or taking certain medicines. Signs and symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, dark-colored urine, urinating less than normal, sunken eyes or cheeks, dry and cool skin, dizziness, fainting, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat, and rapid breathing. Dehydration can be severe, especially in young children and older adults.
dehydroepiandrosterone: (dee-HY-droh-EH-pee-an-DROS-teh-rone); A substance being studied in the prevention of cancer. It is a type of steroid. Also called DHEA.
delayed-type hypersensitivity response: (...HY-per-SEN-sih-TIH-vih-tee reh-SPONTS); An inflammatory response that develops 24 to 72 hours after exposure to an antigen that the immune system recognizes as foreign. This type of immune response involves mainly T cells rather than antibodies (which are made by B cells). Also called DTH.
deleterious mutation: (DEH-leh-TEER-ee-us myoo-TAY-shun); A change in the DNA sequence of a gene that causes a person to have or be at risk of developing a certain genetic disorder or disease, such as cancer. Deleterious mutations can be inherited from a parent or occur during a person’s lifetime. Knowing if a person has a deleterious mutation may help prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases, such as cancer. Not everyone who has a deleterious mutation will develop the disease. Also called disease-causing mutation, pathogenic variant, predisposing mutation, and susceptibility gene mutation.
deletion 17p: (deh-LEE-shun …); The loss of all or part of the short arm (also called the p arm) of chromosome 17. The deletion 17p leads to the loss of the tumor suppressor gene TP53, which is linked to many genetic conditions and some types of cancer, such as leukemia, multiple myeloma, and myelodysplastic syndrome. Checking for the deletion 17p may help diagnose cancer, plan treatment, or make a prognosis. Also called 17p deletion and chromosome 17p deletion.
delirium: (deh-LEER-ee-um); A mental state in which a person is confused and has reduced awareness of their surroundings. The person may also be anxious, agitated, or have less energy than usual and be tired or depressed. Delirium can also cause hallucinations and changes in attention span, mood or behavior, judgement, muscle control, and sleeping patterns. The symptoms of delirium usually occur suddenly, last a short time, and may come and go. It may be caused by infection, dehydration, abnormal levels of some electrolytes, organ failure, medicines, or serious illness, such as advanced cancer.
demeclocycline hydrochloride: (DEH-meh-kloh-SY-kleen HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A substance being studied as a way to detect bone growth in patients receiving bisphosphonates (a type of drug used to treat bone pain caused by some types of cancer) for breast cancer. It binds to newly formed bone. A biopsy is done and bone growth is measured using a special microscope. Demeclocycline hydrochloride also blocks the uptake of water by the kidney and can bind calcium in bones. It is a type of tetracycline antibiotic and a type of bone-labeling agent. Also called Declomycin.
dementia: (deh-MEN-shuh); A condition in which a person loses the ability to think, remember, learn, make decisions, and solve problems. Symptoms may also include personality changes and emotional problems. There are many causes of dementia, including Alzheimer disease, brain cancer, and brain injury. Dementia usually gets worse over time.
Demerol: (DEH-meh-ROL); A drug used to treat moderate to severe pain. Demerol works by binding to opioid receptors, such as the mu opioid receptor, in the central nervous system. This blocks pain signals and changes how the body responds to pain. Demerol is a type of synthetic opioid agonist that works as an analgesic (pain reliever). Also called meperidine hydrochloride.
dendritic cell: (den-DRIH-tik sel); A special type of immune cell that is found in tissues, such as the skin, and boosts immune responses by showing antigens on its surface to other cells of the immune system. A dendritic cell is a type of phagocyte and a type of antigen-presenting cell (APC).
dendritic cell vaccine: (den-DRIH-tik sel vak-SEEN); A vaccine made of antigens and dendritic antigen-presenting cells (APCs).
denial: (deh-NY-ul); In psychiatry, a state in which a person is unable or unwilling to see the truth or reality about an issue or situation.
denileukin diftitox: (DEH-nih-LOO-kin DIF-tih-tox); A drug used to treat adults with stage I, stage II, or stage III cutaneous T-cell lymphoma that came back or did not get better after treatment with at least one other systemic therapy. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Denileukin diftitox is made by combining interleukin-2 (IL-2) with a bacterial toxin. The IL-2 part of the drug attaches to the cancer cells and the toxin kills them. Denileukin diftitox is a type of immunotoxin and a type of recombinant fusion protein. Also called Lymphir.
denomination: (deh-NAH-mih-NAY-shun); In religion, describes a group whose members are organized under a common name and set of rules and have common beliefs and practices.
denosumab: (deh-noh-SOO-mab); A drug used to prevent or treat certain bone problems. Denosumab is used under the brand name Xgeva to prevent bone problems caused by multiple myeloma or by solid tumors that have spread to the bone. It is also used in certain patients to treat giant cell tumor of the bone that cannot be removed by surgery, and to treat hypercalcemia that is caused by cancer and did not get better after treatment with bisphosphonates. Denosumab is also used under the brand name Prolia to increase bone mass in certain patients with breast cancer or prostate cancer who have a high risk of breaking bones. It is also used to treat osteoporosis in certain patients who have a high risk of breaking bones. Denosumab is also being studied in the treatment of other conditions and types of cancer. It binds to a protein called RANKL, which keeps RANKL from binding to another protein called RANK on the surface of certain bone cells, including bone cancer cells. This may help keep bone from breaking down and cancer cells from growing. Denosumab may also prevent the loss of calcium from the bones. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called AMG 162.
dense breast: (dents brest); A term used to describe breast tissue that has more fibrous and glandular tissue than fatty tissue. Dense breast tissue can only be seen on a mammogram. Having dense breast tissue may make it harder to see breast cancer or other changes in the breast on a mammogram. Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer than those with mostly fatty or less dense breast tissue. Having dense breast tissue is common, especially in younger women and in women taking hormone therapy for menopause.
dense connective tissue: (dents kuh-NEK-tiv TIH-shoo); A type of tissue that is mostly made up of tough protein fibers called collagen and cells called fibroblasts. Dense connective tissue supports, protects, and holds bones, muscles, and other tissues and organs in place. Ligaments, tendons, the inner layer of the skin, and the sclera (the white outer layer of the eye) are all types of dense connective tissue. Also called fibrous connective tissue.
dental implant: (DEN-tul IM-plant); A metal device that is surgically placed in the jawbone. It acts as an anchor for an artificial tooth or teeth.
dentist: (DEN-tist); A health professional who has special training in caring for the teeth, gums, and other tissues in the mouth.
Denys-Drash syndrome: (deh-NEES-drash SIN-drome); A rare disorder that causes kidney failure before age 3, abnormal development of the sexual organs, and, in most cases, Wilms tumor (a type of kidney cancer). Children with Denys-Drash syndrome are also at high risk of some other types of cancer. Also called DDS.
deoxycytidine: (dee-OK-see-SY-tih-deen); A drug that protects healthy tissues from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs.
deoxyribonucleic acid: (dee-OK-see-RY-boh-noo-KLAY-ik A-sid); The molecule inside cells that contains the genetic information needed for a person and most other organisms to develop and grow and is passed from one generation to the next. Deoxyribonucleic acid is made up of two strands that twist into the shape of a spiral ladder called a double helix. Each strand has a backbone that is made up of sugar and phosphate molecules that attach to one of four bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). The bases pair up with one another (A with T, and G with C) to form chemical bonds, which act like rungs on a ladder. This holds the two strands of deoxyribonucleic acid together. Also called DNA.
Depakene: (DEH-puh-KEEN); A drug used to treat epileptic seizures and bipolar disorder and to prevent migraine headaches. It is also being studied in the treatment of several types of cancer. It blocks an enzyme that cells need to grow and may cause cancer cells to die. It also blocks the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of anticonvulsant, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, antimaniacal, migraine headache prophylactic, and antiangiogenesis agent. Also called Stavzor and valproic acid.
Department of Health and Human Services: (deh-PART-ment … helth … HYOO-mun SER-vih-ses); The U.S. federal government agency responsible for protecting the public’s health and providing important services, especially for people in need. The Department of Health and Human Services works with state and local governments throughout the country to do research and provide public health services, food and drug safety programs, health insurance programs, and many other services. There are several federal agencies that are a part of the Department of Health and Human Services. They include the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMMS). Also called DHHS and HHS.
depression: (dee-PREH-shun); A mental condition marked by ongoing feelings of sadness, despair, loss of energy, and difficulty dealing with normal daily life. Other symptoms of depression include feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, loss of pleasure in activities, changes in eating or sleeping habits, and thoughts of death or suicide. Depression can affect anyone, and can be successfully treated. Depression affects 15-25% of cancer patients.
depsipeptide: (DEP-see-PEP-tide); A substance that is made naturally by some bacteria, fungi, and other organisms, and can also be made in the laboratory. Depsipeptides are being studied in the treatment of cancer.
derivative: (deh-RIH-vuh-tiv); In chemistry, a compound produced from or related to another.
dermabrasion: (DER-muh-BRAY-zhun); A type of surgery used to make the skin smooth and to improve the way deep scars, pits, and wrinkles look. After numbing the skin, a doctor removes the top layer of skin using sandpaper or a brush or burr (small file) that spins at a high speed.
dermatitis: (DER-muh-TY-tis); Inflammation of the skin.
dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: (DER-muh-toh-FY-broh-sar-KOH-muh proh-TOO-beh-ranz); A type of tumor that begins as a hard nodule and grows slowly. These tumors are usually found in the dermis (the inner layer of the two main layers of tissue that make up the skin) of the limbs or trunk of the body. They can grow into surrounding tissue but do not spread to other parts of the body. These tumors are related to giant cell fibroblastomas.
dermatologist: (der-muh-TAH-loh-jist); A doctor who has special training to diagnose and treat skin problems.
dermatomyositis: (DER-muh-toh-MY-oh-SY-tis); A disease that causes inflammation of the skin and muscles. Signs and symptoms include a red or bluish-purple patchy rash on the face, eyelids, knuckles, elbows, knees, toes, chest, or back. The rash may cause swelling, itching, and pain. Dermatomyositis can also cause muscle weakness in the upper body, hips, and thighs; trouble swallowing; breathing problems; and calcium deposits, which look like hard bumps under the skin or in the muscle. People with dermatomyositis may have an increased risk of certain heart, lung, or connective tissue diseases and certain types of cancer, including cancers of the cervix, lungs, pancreas, breast, ovaries, and gastrointestinal tract. Dermatomyositis can occur in both children and adults.
dermatoscope: (der-MA-toh-SKOPE); A small, handheld device used to examine the skin, nails, scalp, and hair. A dermatoscope has a light and a special magnifying lens that can show skin lesions or other suspicious areas on the skin more clearly than the eye alone. Sometimes a thin layer of alcohol, gel, or oil is placed on the skin lesion to make it easier to see. Some dermatoscopes can also take pictures or videos of the area being examined. A dermatoscope may be used to help diagnose skin cancer or other skin-related conditions, such as vitiligo, scabies, and hair loss.
dermis: (DER-mis); The inner layer of the two main layers of the skin. The dermis has connective tissue, blood vessels, oil and sweat glands, nerves, hair follicles, and other structures. It is made up of a thin upper layer called the papillary dermis, and a thick lower layer called the reticular dermis.
dermoid cyst: (DER-moyd sist); A type of tumor that contains a cyst filled with tissues that are normally found in the outer layers of the skin, including sweat and oil glands. These may also contain elements of hair and teeth. Dermoid cysts can form anywhere in the body, but they usually form in the ovary, testes, the skin of the head, neck, face, or lower back, or in the central nervous system. Dermoid cysts are benign (not cancer) and tend to grow slowly. They are present at birth but may not be found until later in life. Dermoid cysts are a type of germ cell tumor called a mature teratoma.
DES: A synthetic form of the hormone estrogen that was prescribed to pregnant women between about 1940 and 1971 because it was thought to prevent miscarriages. DES may increase the risk of uterine, ovarian, or breast cancer in women who took it. It also has been linked to an increased risk of clear cell carcinoma of the vagina or cervix in daughters exposed to DES before birth. Also called diethylstilbestrol.
DES daughter: (… DAH-ter); A female who was exposed before birth to a synthetic form of the hormone estrogen called diethylstilbestrol (DES) because their mother took DES while pregnant with them. DES was prescribed for some pregnant women between about 1940 and 1971 because it was thought to prevent miscarriage, premature labor, and other complications related to pregnancy. It was stopped in 1971 due to medical problems that were seen in the children of women who took it. DES daughters were found to have an increased risk of precancerous lesions in the cervix and clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix or vagina. DES daughters may also have an increased risk of breast cancer, pancreatic cancer or other pancreatic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and depression. Other health problems that may have affected DES daughters include early menopause, fertility and pregnancy problems, and structural changes in the female reproductive tract.
DES son: A male who was exposed before birth to a synthetic form of the hormone estrogen called diethylstilbestrol (DES) because their mother took DES while pregnant with them. DES was prescribed to some pregnant women between about 1940 and 1971 because it was thought to prevent miscarriage, premature labor, and other complications related to pregnancy. It was stopped in 1971 due to medical problems that were seen in the children of women who took it. DES sons have an increased risk of cysts in the testicles and may have other testicular problems, such as undescended testicles (a condition in which one or both testicles fail to move from the abdomen into the scrotum) and an increased risk of inflammation or infection of the testicles.
deslorelin: (DES-loh-REH-lin); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer as a way to block sex hormones made by the ovaries or testicles. It is a type of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog.
desmoid tumor: (DEZ-moyd TOO-mer); A rare type of soft tissue tumor that forms in fibrous connective tissue of the body, usually in the abdomen, head and neck, shoulders, upper arms, and thighs. Desmoid tumors are intermediate tumors, meaning they can grow into and damage nearby tissue (locally aggressive) but do not spread to other parts of the body. They are painful, difficult to completely remove with surgery, and often come back after surgery. Desmoid tumors occur in adults and children. Also called aggressive fibromatosis and desmoid-type fibromatosis.
desmoid-type fibromatosis: (DEZ-moyd … FY-broh-muh-TOH-sis); A rare type of soft tissue tumor that forms in fibrous connective tissue of the body, usually in the abdomen, head and neck, shoulders, upper arms, and thighs. Desmoid-type fibromatoses are intermediate tumors, meaning they can grow into and damage nearby tissue (locally aggressive) but do not spread to other parts of the body. They are painful, difficult to completely remove with surgery, and often come back after surgery. Desmoid-type fibromatoses occur in adults and children. Also called aggressive fibromatosis and desmoid tumor.
desmoplastic: (DES-moh-PLAS-tik); Causing or forming adhesions or fibrous connective tissue within a tumor.
desmoplastic melanoma: (DES-moh-PLAS-tik MEH-luh-NOH-muh); A rare form of malignant melanoma marked by nonpigmented lesions on sun-exposed areas of the body, most commonly on the head and neck.
desmoplastic small round cell tumor: (DES-moh-PLAS-tik ... TOO-mer); A rare, aggressive cancer that usually affects young males and usually is located in the abdomen.
detoxify: (dee-TOK-sih-fy); To make something less poisonous or harmful. It may refer to the process of removing toxins, poisons, or other harmful substances from the body.
developmental stage: (dee-VEH-lup-MEN-tul stayj); The physical, mental, and emotional stages a child goes through as he or she grows and matures.
deviant: (DEE-vee-unt); Different from what is normal or standard, especially in terms of behavior.
device: (dee-VISE); An object that has a specific use. In medicine, wheelchairs, pumps, and artificial limbs are examples of devices.
DEXA scan: (… skan); A procedure that measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in a bone by passing x-rays with two different energy levels through the bone. A DEXA scan shows the strength and thickness of a bone and is usually done in the lower spine, hip, lower arm, wrist, fingers, and heel. It is used to diagnose osteoporosis (a condition of lower bone density), to see how well osteoporosis treatments are working, and to predict how likely the bones are to break. A DEXA scan also measures fat and muscle composition in specific parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, and pelvis. Also called BMD scan, bone densitometry, bone mineral density scan, dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, and DXA.
dexamethasone: (DEK-suh-MEH-thuh-sone); A drug used to reduce inflammation and lower the body’s immune response. It is used with other drugs to treat leukemia, lymphoma, mycosis fungoides (a type of skin lymphoma), and multiple myeloma. Dexamethasone is also used alone or with other drugs to prevent or treat many other diseases and conditions. These include conditions related to cancer and its treatment, such as anemia (a low level of red blood cells), allergic reactions, swelling in the brain, and high levels of calcium in the blood. Dexamethasone is a type of corticosteroid.
dexmethylphenidate: (dex-MEH-thul-FEH-nih-dayt); A substance being studied in the treatment of fatigue and nervous system side effects caused by chemotherapy. It is a type of central nervous system stimulant.
dexrazoxane hydrochloride: (DEX-ruh-ZOK-sane HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A drug used to treat severe side effects caused by certain types of anticancer drugs. It is used under the brand names Totect and Zinecard to reduce heart damage in women who are receiving doxorubicin for breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It is also used under the brand name Totect to treat the toxic effects of an anticancer drug that leaks from a vein into surrounding tissue and causes tissue damage. Dexrazoxane hydrochloride is also being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. It is a type of cardioprotective agent, a type of chemoprotective agent, and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Dexrazoxane is the active ingredient of dexrazoxane hydrochloride.
dextroamphetamine-amphetamine: (DEK-stroh-am-FEH-tuh-meen-am-FEH-tuh-meen); A combination of drugs used as a treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (a sleep disorder). It is a type of stimulant. Also called Adderall.
dextromethorphan acetic acid: (DEK-stroh-meh-THOR-fan uh-SEE-tik A-sid); An anticancer drug that is a type of angiogenesis inhibitor.
DFMO: A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. Also called difluoromethylornithine.
DFS: In cancer, the length of time after primary treatment for a cancer ends that the patient survives without any signs or symptoms of that cancer. In a clinical trial, measuring the DFS is one way to see how well a new treatment works. Also called disease-free survival, relapse-free survival, and RFS.
DHA-paclitaxel: (...PA-klih-TAK-sil); A combination of DHA (a natural fatty acid) and paclitaxel (an anticancer drug) being studied in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of mitotic inhibitor.
DHEA: A substance being studied in the prevention of cancer. It is a type of steroid. Also called dehydroepiandrosterone.
DHFR inhibitor: (… in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that can build up in cancer cells and block them from using folate. Folate is a nutrient that rapidly dividing cells need to make DNA. Blocking folate use helps keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. Some DHFR inhibitors are used to treat cancer. A DHFR inhibitor is a type of antifolate. Also called dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor.
DHHS: The U.S. federal government agency responsible for protecting the public’s health and providing important services, especially for people in need. The DHHS works with state and local governments throughout the country to do research and provide public health services, food and drug safety programs, health insurance programs, and many other services. There are several federal agencies that are a part of the DHHS. They include the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMMS). Also called Department of Health and Human Services and HHS.
DHL: A rare, aggressive (fast-growing) type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma caused by changes in the DNA that affect a gene called the MYC gene and either the BCL2 gene or the BCL6 gene. DHL may be hard to treat and has a poor prognosis. It is a type of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Also called double-hit lymphoma.
DHPLN: A childhood condition in which abnormal tissue grows on the outer part of one or both kidneys. DHPLN usually develops into Wilms tumor (a type of childhood kidney cancer) if not treated. Also called diffuse hyperplastic perilobar nephroblastomatosis.
DHT: A hormone made from testosterone in the prostate, testes, and certain other tissues. It is needed to develop and maintain male sex characteristics, such as facial hair, deep voice, and muscle growth. High amounts of DHT may increase the growth of prostate cancer and make it harder to treat. Also called androstanolone and dihydrotestosterone.
di-dgA-RFB4: An anticancer drug that is a combination of a monoclonal antibody (RFB4) and an immunotoxin (dgA).
diabetes: (dy-uh-BEE-teez); Any of several diseases in which the kidneys make a large amount of urine. Diabetes usually refers to diabetes mellitus in which there is also a high level of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood because the body does not make enough insulin or use it the way it should.
diabetes insipidus: (dy-uh-BEE-teez in-SIH-pih-dus); A condition in which a person is very thirsty and makes large amounts of urine. The most common types of diabetes insipidus are central diabetes insipidus (a pituitary disorder) and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (kidney failure). Diabetes insipidus is not related to diabetes mellitus, which is more common.
diabetes mellitus: (dy-uh-BEE-teez MEH-lih-tus); A disease in which the body does not control the amount of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood and the kidneys make a large amount of urine. This disease occurs when the body does not make enough insulin or does not use it the way it should.
diacetylmorphine: (dy-A-seh-til-MOR-feen); A highly addictive substance once used to treat severe pain but is now illegal to use or sell in the United States. It is made from morphine, a natural substance found in the seed pods of the opium poppy plant. Diacetylmorphine works by binding to mu opioid receptors in the central nervous system, which blocks pain signals and changes how the body responds to pain. It is a type of analgesic (pain reliever) and a type of opiate. Also called diamorphine and heroin.
diagnosis: (DY-ug-NOH-sis); The process of identifying a disease, condition, or injury from its signs and symptoms. A health history, physical exam, and tests, such as blood tests, imaging tests, and biopsies, may be used to help make a diagnosis.
diagnostic mammogram: (DY-ug-NAH-stik MA-muh-gram); An x-ray picture of the breast used to check for breast cancer after a lump or other sign or symptom of the disease has been found. It is also used to follow up on a suspicious change found during a screening mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram usually involves taking more detailed x-ray pictures of the breast from different angles to check the suspicious area more closely.
diagnostic procedure: (DY-ug-NAH-stik proh-SEE-jer); A test used to help figure out what disease or condition a person has based on their signs and symptoms. Diagnostic procedures may also be used to help plan treatment, find out how well treatment is working, and make a prognosis. There are many different types of diagnostic procedures. Examples include laboratory tests (such as blood and urine tests), imaging tests (such as mammography and CT scan), endoscopy (such as colonoscopy and bronchoscopy), and biopsy. Also called diagnostic test.
diagnostic technique: (DY-ug-NAH-stik tek-NEEK); A type of method or test used to help diagnose a disease or condition. Imaging tests and tests to measure blood pressure, pulse, and temperature are examples of diagnostic techniques.
diagnostic test: (DY-ug-NAH-stik …); A test used to help figure out what disease or condition a person has based on their signs and symptoms. Diagnostic tests may also be used to help plan treatment, find out how well treatment is working, and make a prognosis. There are many different types of diagnostic tests. Examples include laboratory tests (such as blood and urine tests), imaging tests (such as mammography and CT scan), endoscopy (such as colonoscopy and bronchoscopy), and biopsy. Also called diagnostic procedure.
diagnostic trial: (DY-ug-NAH-stik TRY-ul); A research study that evaluates methods of detecting disease.
dialysis: (dy-A-luh-sis); The process of filtering the blood when the kidneys are not able to cleanse it.
diameter: (dy-A-meh-ter); The length of a straight line that extends from one edge of a tumor or other object, through its center and to the opposite edge. It is usually used to measure the size of round or spherical shapes.
Diamond-Blackfan anemia: (DY-uh-mund-BLAK-fan uh-NEE-mee-uh); A very rare disorder in which the bone marrow doesn’t make enough red blood cells. It is usually seen in the first year of life. Patients may have deformed thumbs and other physical problems. They also have an increased risk of leukemia and sarcoma, especially osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Patients with Diamond-Blackfan anemia may have a mutation (change) in one of the genes that make proteins found in the cell’s ribosomes. Also called Blackfan–Diamond anemia, congenital hypoplastic anemia, congenital pure red cell aplasia, DBA, erythrogenesis imperfecta, and inherited erythroblastopenia.
diamorphine: (dy-uh-MOR-feen); A highly addictive substance once used to treat severe pain but is now illegal to use or sell in the United States. It is made from morphine, a natural substance found in the seed pods of the opium poppy plant. Diamorphine works by binding to mu opioid receptors in the central nervous system, which blocks pain signals and changes how the body responds to pain. It is a type of analgesic (pain reliever) and a type of opiate. Also called diacetylmorphine and heroin.
diaphragm: (DY-uh-fram); The thin muscle below the lungs and heart that separates the chest from the abdomen.
diaphragmatic breathing: (DY-uh-fruh-MA-tik BREE-thing); A relaxation technique in which a person focuses on taking slow, deep breaths. Diaphragmatic breathing involves breathing in slowly through the nose and then out through the mouth using the diaphragm (the thin muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen) and abdominal muscles. This helps boost the amount of oxygen in the blood, lowers blood pressure and heart rate, and reduces muscle tension. Diaphragmatic breathing may be used to help relieve stress, pain, and anxiety. Also called abdominal breathing and deep breathing.
diarrhea: (dy-uh-REE-uh); Frequent or uncontrollable bowel movements that may be soft, loose, or watery. Other symptoms of diarrhea include stomach pain or cramps, excessive gas, nausea, and fever. Severe diarrhea may lead to serious health problems such as dehydration. Diarrhea is a common side effect of many cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy.
diathermy: (DY-uh-THER-mee); A procedure in which tissue is heated to destroy abnormal cells. The heat may come from electric currents, microwaves, radio waves, or ultrasound. Diathermy is a type of hyperthermia therapy. Also called electrodiathermy.
diazepam: (dy-A-zeh-pam); A drug used to treat mild to moderate anxiety and tension and to relax muscles. It is a type of benzodiazepine. Also called Valium.
diaziquone: (dy-A-zih-kwone); An anticancer drug that is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and kill cancer cells in the central nervous system. Also called AZQ.
DICER1 syndrome: (… SIN-drome); A rare, inherited disorder that is caused by a mutation (change) in a gene called DICER1. Having this mutation increases the risk of certain types of tumors, including tumors of the kidney, thyroid, ovary, cervix, testicle, brain, eye, and lining of the lung. The tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). A goiter (an enlarged thyroid) and polyps in the colon may also occur. Not all people who have a mutation in the DICER1 gene will develop tumors.
diclofenac: (dy-KLOH-feh-nak); The active ingredient in a drug that is used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of skin cancer. It blocks substances that cause inflammation and pain. It may also prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of cyclooxygenase inhibitor, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and a type of antiangiogenesis agent.
diclofenac sodium: (dy-KLOH-feh-nak SOH-dee-um); A drug that is used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of skin cancer. It blocks substances that cause inflammation and pain. It may also prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of cyclooxygenase inhibitor, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called Voltaren.
diclofenac sodium gel: (dy-KLOH-feh-nak SOH-dee-um jel); The gel form of a drug that is used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of skin cancer. It blocks substances that cause inflammation and pain. It may also prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of cyclooxygenase inhibitor, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called Voltaren gel.
didanosine: (dy-DA-noh-seen); A drug used in the treatment of infections caused by viruses.
DIEP flap: (… flap); A type of breast reconstruction in which blood vessels called deep inferior epigastric perforators (DIEP), and the skin and fat connected to them are removed from the lower abdomen and used for reconstruction. Muscle is left in place.
diet: (DY-et); The things a person eats and drinks.
dietary counseling: (DY-uh-TAYR-ee KOWN-suh-ling); A process by which a health professional with special training in nutrition helps people make healthy food choices and form healthy eating habits. In cancer treatment, the goal of dietary counseling is to help patients stay healthy during and after treatment and to stay strong enough to fight infections and the recurrence of disease. Also called nutritional counseling.
dietary protocol: (DY-uh-TAYR-ee PROH-tuh-KOL); A detailed diet plan that states what, how, and when a person will eat and drink. It may be used to test how a specific diet affects a health outcome, such as lower cholesterol.
Dietary Reference Intakes: (DY-uh-TAYR-ee REH-frents IN-tayks); A set of guidelines developed by U.S. and Canadian scientists to give information about the role of nutrients in human health. These guidelines include the Reference Daily Intakes (RDI), which are the recommended amounts of nutrients to be eaten each day to meet the needs of most healthy people. This system replaced the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). Also called DRI.
dietary supplement: (DY-uh-TAYR-ee SUH-pleh-ment); A product that is added to the diet. A dietary supplement is taken by mouth and usually contains one or more dietary ingredients. Examples of dietary ingredients include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and enzymes. A person should talk with their health care provider before taking dietary supplements, as some may have side effects or interact with other dietary supplements and medicines. Also called nutritional supplement.
diethylstilbestrol: (dy-EH-thul-stil-BES-trol); A synthetic form of the hormone estrogen that was prescribed to pregnant women between about 1940 and 1971 because it was thought to prevent miscarriages. Diethylstilbestrol may increase the risk of uterine, ovarian, or breast cancer in women who took it. It also has been linked to an increased risk of clear cell carcinoma of the vagina or cervix in daughters exposed to diethylstilbestrol before birth. Also called DES.
dietitian: (dy-eh-TIH-shun); A health professional who has special training in diet and nutrition. Dietitians offer advice on nutrition and healthy eating habits to help people improve their health and well-being. Dietitians also help people who are recovering from illness or surgery or who have medical conditions, such as food allergies, eating disorders, swallowing problems, diabetes, heart or kidney disease, or cancer, meet their nutritional needs. Dietitians may provide nutritional counseling, meal planning, medical nutrition therapy (such as a special diet, dietary supplements, or intravenous or tube feedings), and nutrition education programs. Also called registered dietitian.
differentiated thyroid cancer: (DIH-feh-REN-shee-AY-ted THY-royd KAN-ser); A type of thyroid cancer in which the cancer cells look similar to normal thyroid cells when viewed under a microscope. Most differentiated thyroid cancers form in the follicular cells of the thyroid gland. They tend to grow slowly, can be treated, and can usually be cured. The most common types of differentiated thyroid cancer are papillary thyroid cancer and follicular thyroid cancer.
differentiating agent: (DIH-feh-REN-shee-AY-ting AY-jent); A substance that causes a cell to change from an immature form to a mature form. In cancer, a differentiating agent may help cancer cells to become more like normal cells and to grow and spread more slowly. Some differentiating agents are being studied in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
differentiation: (DIH-feh-REN-shee-AY-shun); In biology, describes the processes by which immature cells become mature cells with specific functions. In cancer, this describes how much or how little tumor tissue looks like the normal tissue it came from. Well-differentiated cancer cells look more like normal cells and tend to grow and spread more slowly than poorly differentiated or undifferentiated cancer cells. Differentiation is used in tumor grading systems, which are different for each type of cancer.
differentiation syndrome: (DIH-feh-REN-shee-AY-shun SIN-drome); A serious side effect that may occur in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia or other types of acute myeloid leukemia who have been treated with certain types of anticancer drugs. Differentiation syndrome usually occurs within 1 to 2 weeks after starting treatment, but it can occur later. It is caused by a large, rapid release of cytokines (immune substances) from leukemia cells that are affected by the anticancer drugs. Signs and symptoms of differentiation syndrome include fever; cough; trouble breathing; weight gain; swelling of the arms, legs, and neck; build-up of excess fluid around the heart and lungs; low blood pressure; and kidney failure. Differentiation syndrome can be life-threatening if not treated early.
diffuse: (dih-FYOOS); Widely spread; not localized or confined.
diffuse hyperplastic perilobar nephroblastomatosis: (dih-FYOOS HY-per-PLAS-tik payr-ee-LOH-bar NEH-froh-blas-TOH-muh-TOH-sis); A childhood condition in which abnormal tissue grows on the outer part of one or both kidneys. Diffuse hyperplastic perilobar nephroblastomatosis usually develops into Wilms tumor (a type of childhood kidney cancer) if not treated. Also called DHPLN.
diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma: (dih-FYOOS in-TRIN-sik PON-teen glee-OH-muh); A rare, fast-growing tumor that forms in cells called glial cells in a part of the brain stem called the pons. Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas tend to spread to nearby tissue and other parts of the brain stem, are hard to treat, and have a poor prognosis (outcome). They usually occur in children. Also called DIPG.
diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: (dih-FYOOS larj ... sel lim-FOH-muh); A term used to describe a group of fast-growing B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) in which the cancer cells look large when viewed under a microscope. Diffuse large B-cell lymphomas are the most common type of NHL and are marked by rapidly growing tumors in the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, bone marrow, or other tissues and organs. Signs and symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, drenching night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss. Diffuse large B-cell lymphomas can occur at any age but are more common in older adults. They may sometimes be called by the more general term, large B-cell lymphoma.
diffuse optical imaging: (dih-FYOOS OP-tih-kul IH-muh-jing); A procedure that uses light waves to create 2-dimensional (2-D) or 3-dimensional (3-D) pictures of tissues inside the body. Diffuse optical imaging may be used to look at blood flow to the tissues and to measure changes in the amount of oxygen in them. This may help show the difference between normal and abnormal tissue. Diffuse optical imaging may be especially useful for looking at soft tissue, such as breast and brain tissue. It is being studied as an imaging test to help diagnose early-stage breast cancer and other conditions. Also called DOI.
diffuse optical tomography: (dih-FYOOS OP-tih-kul toh-MAH-gruh-fee); A procedure that uses light waves to create 3-dimensional (3-D) pictures of tissues inside the body. The pictures are created by a computer linked to the light source. Diffuse optical tomography may be used to look at blood flow to the tissues and to measure changes in the amount of oxygen in them. This may help show the difference between normal and abnormal tissue. Diffuse optical tomography may be especially useful for looking at soft tissue, such as breast and brain tissue. It is being studied as an imaging test to help diagnose early-stage breast cancer and other conditions. Also called DOT.
difluoromethylornithine: (dy-FLOOR-oh-MEH-thul-OR-nih-theen); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. Also called DFMO.
digestion: (dy-JES-chun); The process of breaking down food into substances the body can use for energy, tissue growth, and repair.
digestive system: (dy-JES-tiv SIS-tem); The organs that take in food and liquids and break them down into substances that the body can use for energy, growth, and tissue repair. Waste products the body cannot use leave the body through bowel movements. The digestive system includes the mouth, pharynx (throat), esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. It also includes the salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, which make digestive juices and enzymes that help the body digest food and liquids. Also called gastrointestinal system.
digestive tract: (dy-JES-tiv trakt); The organs that food and liquids travel through when they are swallowed, digested, absorbed, and leave the body as feces. These organs include the mouth, pharynx (throat), esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. The digestive tract is part of the digestive system. Also called alimentary tract and gastrointestinal tract.
digital breast tomosynthesis: (DIH-jih-tul brest toh-moh-SIN-thuh-sis); A procedure that uses x-rays to take a series of pictures of the inside of the breast from many different angles. A computer is used to make 3-D pictures of the breast from these x-rays. Digital breast tomosynthesis is used to check for breast cancer and other changes in the breast, such as abnormal lumps, cysts, or calcifications (calcium deposits). It may allow doctors to see breast tissue, including dense breast tissue, more clearly than with 2-D mammography. This may make breast tumors or other changes in the breast easier to find. Also called 3-D mammography and 3-dimensional mammography.
digital image analysis: (DIH-jih-tul IH-mij uh-NA-lih-sis); A method in which an image or other type of data is changed into a series of dots or numbers so that it can be viewed and studied on a computer. In medicine, this type of image analysis is being used to study organs or tissues, and in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
digital mammography: (DIH-jih-tul ma-MAH-gruh-fee); The use of a computer, rather than x-ray film, to create a picture of the breast.
digital photography: (DIH-jih-tul fuh-TAH-gruh-fee); A type of photography in which images can be viewed on a computer screen.
digital rectal examination: (DIH-jih-tul REK-tul eg-ZA-mih-NAY-shun); An examination in which a doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities. Also called DRE.
digitalis: (DIH-jih-TA-lis); A substance used to make drugs that are used to treat several heart conditions, including congestive heart failure. Digitalis is made from the dried leaves of Digitalis purpurea (common foxglove) plants. It is a type of cardiac glycoside.
digoxin: (dih-JOK-sin); A drug used to treat irregular heartbeat and some types of heart failure. It is also being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. Digoxin helps the heart work normally by controlling the amount of calcium that goes into the heart muscle. It also may kill cancer cells and make them more sensitive to anticancer drugs. It is a type of cardiac glycoside. Also called Lanoxin.
dihematoporphyrin ether: (dy-HEE-muh-toh-POR-fih-rin EE-ther); Used in photodynamic therapy, a drug that is absorbed by tumor cells; when exposed to light, it becomes active and kills the cancer cells.
dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor: (dy-HY-droh-FOH-layt ree-DUK-tays in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that can build up in cancer cells and block them from using folate. Folate is a nutrient that rapidly dividing cells need to make DNA. Blocking folate use helps keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. Some dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors are used to treat cancer. A dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor is a type of antifolate. Also called DHFR inhibitor.
dihydrotestosterone: (dy-HY-droh-tes-TOS-teh-rone); A hormone made from testosterone in the prostate, testes, and certain other tissues. It is needed to develop and maintain male sex characteristics, such as facial hair, deep voice, and muscle growth. High amounts of dihydrotestosterone may increase the growth of prostate cancer and make it harder to treat. Also called androstanolone and DHT.
diindolylmethane: (dy-IN-doh-lil-MEH-thayn); A substance being studied in the treatment of prostate cancer and in the prevention of cervical cancer. Diindolylmethane is found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. It is a type of plant indole. Also called DIM.
Dilantin: (dy-LAN-tin); A drug used to treat or prevent seizures or convulsions that may be caused by epilepsy, brain surgery, or treatment for brain cancer. It is a type of anticonvulsant agent. Also called phenytoin sodium.
dilatation and curettage: (DIH-luh-TAY-shun … kyoo-reh-TAZH); A procedure to scrape and remove tissue from the inner lining of the uterus. The cervix is dilated (made larger) and a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) is inserted into the uterus to remove tissue. A tissue sample may then be checked under a microscope for signs of disease, such as infection or cancer. A dilatation and curettage may also be done after a miscarriage or to treat certain conditions, such as abnormal bleeding. Also called D&C and dilation and curettage.
dilate: (DY-layt); To widen or enlarge an opening or hollow structure beyond its usual size, such as the pupil of the eye or a blood vessel.
dilation and curettage: (dy-LAY-shun … kyoo-reh-TAZH); A procedure to scrape and remove tissue from the inner lining of the uterus. The cervix is dilated (made larger) and a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) is inserted into the uterus to remove tissue. A tissue sample may then be checked under a microscope for signs of disease, such as infection or cancer. A dilation and curettage may also be done after a miscarriage or to treat certain conditions, such as abnormal bleeding. Also called D&C and dilatation and curettage.
dilator: (DY-lay-ter); A device used to stretch or enlarge an opening.
Dilaudid: (dy-LAW-did); A drug used to treat moderate to severe pain. It may also be used to treat certain types of cough. Dilaudid is made from morphine and binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system. It is a type of opioid and a type of analgesic agent. Also called Exalgo, hydromorphone hydrochloride, and Hydrostat IR.
dilute: (dy-LOOT); To make something thinner, weaker, less concentrated, or less pure by adding something to it.
DIM: A substance being studied in the treatment of prostate cancer and in the prevention of cervical cancer. DIM is found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. It is a type of plant indole. Also called diindolylmethane.
Dimericine: (dy-MAYR-ih-seen); A lotion being studied in the treatment of skin cancer and a skin condition called xeroderma pigmentosum. It has an enzyme contained in very tiny, fat-like particles. The enzyme repairs damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. Dimericine is a type of DNA repair enzyme topical agent. Also called T4N5 liposomal lotion.
dimesna: (dy-MEZ-nuh); A drug that belongs to the family of drugs called chemoprotective agents.
dimethyl sulfoxide: (dy-MEH-thul sul-FOK-side); A colorless liquid that readily dissolves many chemicals and penetrates animal and plant tissues. It is used in human medicine, veterinary medicine, and pharmaceuticals.
dimethylxanthenone acetic acid: (dy-MEH-thul-ZAN-theh-none uh-SEE-tik A-sid); An anticancer drug that is a type of angiogenesis inhibitor.
DIN: A condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct (milk duct). Having DIN may increase the risk of breast cancer in which these abnormal cells become cancer and spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. Types of DIN include atypical ductal hyperplasia and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Also called ductal intraepithelial neoplasia.
dinaciclib: (dih-nuh-SY-klib); A substance being studied in the treatment of advanced melanoma (a type of skin cancer) and other types of cancer. It blocks cell division and may cause cancer cells to die. It is a type of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. Also called CDK inhibitor SCH 727965.
dinutuximab: (din-yoo-TUK-sih-mab); A drug used with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), aldesleukin (IL-2), and 13-cis-retinoic acid to treat children with high-risk neuroblastoma. It is used in patients whose disease has gotten better with other anticancer treatment. Dinutuximab binds to a substance called GD2, which is found on some types of cancer cells. Dinutuximab may block GD2 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called Ch14.18, MOAB Ch14.18, monoclonal antibody Ch14.18, and Unituxin.
DIPG: A rare, fast-growing tumor that forms in cells called glial cells in a part of the brain stem called the pons. DIPGs tend to spread to nearby tissue and other parts of the brain stem, are hard to treat, and have a poor prognosis (outcome). They usually occur in children. Also called diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.
diphenhydramine: (dy-fen-HY-druh-meen); A drug used to treat allergies and relieve cough and itching caused by insect bites, sunburn, and poison oak or ivy. It is also used to treat mild Parkinson disease, to prevent and treat motion sickness, to relieve cough and cold symptoms, and as a sleep aid. It is a type of antihistamine.
diphosphonate: (dy-FOS-foh-nayt); A drug or substance used to treat hypercalcemia (abnormally high blood calcium) and bone pain caused by some types of cancer. Forms of diphosphonates are also used to treat osteoporosis and for bone imaging. Diphosphonates inhibit a type of bone cell that breaks down bone. Also called bisphosphonate.
diploid: (DIP-loyd); A term that describes a cell or organism with two complete sets of chromosomes. Most human cells, except for egg and sperm cells, are diploid and contain 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46 chromosomes in each cell.
dipyridamole: (DY-pih-RIH-duh-mole); A drug that prevents blood cell clumping and enhances the effectiveness of fluorouracil and other chemotherapeutic agents.
direct ophthalmoscopy: (duh-REKT OF-thul-MOS-koh-pee); An exam of the inside of the back of the eye using an ophthalmoscope (a flashlight-sized instrument with a light source and a set of rotating lenses).
disability insurance: (dih-suh-BIH-lih-tee in-SHOOR-ents); An insurance plan that pays some of a person’s income when he or she is disabled from an illness or injury and cannot work. The two main types of disability insurance are short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD). STD may last for up to 2 years. LTD usually begins after STD ends and may last for a person’s lifetime.
discharge: (DIS-charj); In medicine, a fluid that comes out of the body. Discharge can be normal or a sign of disease. Discharge also means release of a patient from care.
disease: (dih-ZEEZ); An abnormal condition that affects the structure or function of part or all of the body and is usually associated with specific signs and symptoms.
disease progression: (dih-ZEEZ pruh-GREH-shun); Cancer that continues to grow or spread.
disease-causing mutation: (dih-ZEEZ-KAW-sing myoo-TAY-shun); A change in the DNA sequence of a gene that causes a person to have or be at risk of developing a certain genetic disorder or disease, such as cancer. Disease-causing mutations can be inherited from a parent or occur during a person’s lifetime. Knowing if a person has a disease-causing mutation may help prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases, such as cancer. Not everyone who has a disease-causing mutation will develop the disease. Also called deleterious mutation, pathogenic variant, predisposing mutation, and susceptibility gene mutation.
disease-free survival: (dih-ZEEZ ... ser-VY-vul); In cancer, the length of time after primary treatment for a cancer ends that the patient survives without any signs or symptoms of that cancer. In a clinical trial, measuring the disease-free survival is one way to see how well a new treatment works. Also called DFS, relapse-free survival, and RFS.
disease-specific survival rate: (dih-ZEEZ-speh-SIH-fik ser-VY-vul rayt); The percentage of people in a study or treatment group who have not died from a specific disease in a defined period of time. The time period usually begins at the time of diagnosis or at the start of treatment and ends at the time of death. Patients who died from causes other than the disease being studied are not counted in this measurement.
disinfectant: (DIS-in-fek-tunt); Any substance or process that is used primarily on non-living objects to kill germs, such as viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can cause infection and disease. Most disinfectants are harsh chemicals but sometimes heat or radiation may be used.
disorder: (dis-OR-der); In medicine, an abnormal condition that affects the body's function but may or may not have specific signs and symptoms. A disorder may indicate that a specific disease is present, but there is usually not enough evidence to make a diagnosis. There are many different types of disorders, including physical, mental, emotional, behavioral, genetic, and functional disorders.
disorientation: (dis-OR-ee-en-TAY-shun); A mental state marked by confusion about time, place, or who one is.
disseminate: (dih-SEH-mih-NAYT); In medicine, disseminate means to scatter or spread widely throughout the body’s tissues or organs. For example, cancer cells can break away from the original (primary) tumor, travel through the blood or lymph system, and disseminate to other organs or tissues in the body.
distal: (DIS-tul); In medicine, refers to a part of the body that is farther away from the center of the body than another part. For example, the fingers are distal to the shoulder. The opposite is proximal.
distal bile duct cancer: (DIS-tul bile dukt KAN-ser); Cancer that forms in the area where the ducts from the liver and gallbladder join to form the common bile duct, which passes through the pancreas into the small intestine. Bile ducts carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. Distal bile duct cancer is a type of extrahepatic bile duct cancer.
distal colon: (DIS-tul KOH-lun); The last part of the colon. The distal colon includes the descending colon (the left side of the colon) and the sigmoid colon (the S-shaped section of the colon that connects to the rectum).
distal pancreatectomy: (DIS-tul PAN-kree-uh-TEK-toh-mee); Surgery to remove the body and the tail of the pancreas. The spleen may also be removed. A distal pancreatectomy is usually done to remove benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer) pancreatic tumors found in the body or tail of the pancreas, but it may also be done to treat chronic pancreatitis and injuries to the pancreas.
distal urethra: (DIS-tul yoo-REE-thruh); The part of the urethra closest to the outside of the body. The urethra is the tube through which urine leaves the body. In women, the distal urethra is approximately the last ½ inch, and in men it is the part of the urethra in the penis.
distal urethral cancer: (DIS-tul yoo-REE-thrul KAN-ser); A rare cancer that forms in the part of the urethra that is closest to the outside of the body. The cancer often has not spread deeply into the tissue.
distant cancer: (DIS-tunt KAN-ser); Refers to cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to distant organs or distant lymph nodes. Also called distant metastasis.
distant metastasis: (DIS-tunt meh-TAS-tuh-sis); Refers to cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to distant organs or distant lymph nodes. Also called distant cancer.
distant recurrence: (DIS-tunt ree-KER-ents); Cancer that has recurred (come back) in another part of the body that is far away from where the original (primary) tumor first formed. For example, if breast cancer recurs in the liver, the cancer cells in the liver are breast cancer cells, not liver cancer cells.
distraction: (dis-TRAK-shun); In medicine, a pain relief method that takes the patient's attention away from the pain.
distress: (dih-STRES); Emotional, social, spiritual, or physical pain or suffering that may cause a person to feel sad, afraid, depressed, anxious, or lonely. People in distress may also feel that they are not able to manage or cope with changes caused by normal life activities or by having a disease, such as cancer. Cancer patients may have trouble coping with their diagnosis, physical symptoms, or treatment.
disulfiram: (dy-SUL-fih-ram); A drug that slows the metabolism of retinoids, allowing them to act over a longer period of time.
diuresis: (DY-yoo-REE-sis); An increase in the amount of urine made by the kidney and passed from the body.
diuretic: (DY-yoo-REH-tik); A type of drug that causes the kidneys to make more urine. Diuretics help the body get rid of extra fluid and salt. They are used to treat high blood pressure, edema (extra fluid in the tissues), and other conditions. There are many different types of diuretics. They are sometimes called water pills.
diversity: (dih-VER-sih-tee); Having people with different physical, social, and personal traits or characteristics in a group or organization. These characteristics may include race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual identity, religion, physical and mental ability, language, income, and education. Diversity may also include different life experiences, cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and interests in a group. In cancer research, there are efforts being made to increase the diversity of people enrolled in clinical trials so that the trial results represent a wider group of people who would most likely benefit from the treatment or intervention being studied.
diverticulitis: (DY-ver-TIH-kyoo-LY-tis); Inflammation of one or more pouches or sacs that bulge out from the wall of a hollow organ, such as the colon. Symptoms include muscle spasms and cramps in the abdomen.
diverticulosis: (DY-ver-TIH-kyoo-LOH-sis); A condition marked by small sacs or pouches in the walls of a hollow organ, such as the colon. These sacs can become inflamed and cause a condition called diverticulitis.
diverticulum: (DY-ver-TIH-kyoo-lum); A small pouch or sac that bulges out from the wall of a hollow organ, such as the colon.
DJ-927: A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of taxane derivative.
DKC: A rare, inherited disorder that can affect many parts of the body, especially the nails, skin, and mouth. It is marked by abnormally shaped fingernails and toenails that may grow poorly; changes in skin color, especially on the neck and chest; and white patches inside the mouth. Other problems may include hair loss or early graying of the hair, eye and dental problems, osteoporosis, joint problems, liver disease, and a narrowing of the urethra (tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body) in men. People with DKC may develop serious conditions, such as bone marrow failure, myelodysplastic syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, and certain types of cancer, especially leukemia and cancers of the head and neck, mouth, anus, and genitals. DKC may be caused by mutations (changes) in certain genes that affect the length of telomeres (the ends of chromosomes). Also called dyskeratosis congenita.
DKC1 gene: (... jeen); A gene that makes a protein involved in protecting and maintaining telomeres (the ends of chromosomes) and in making a molecule called ribosomal RNA. Mutations (changes) in the DKC1 gene may cause damage to chromosomes and DNA, which may lead to abnormal cell growth. DKC1 gene mutations have been found in a rare, inherited condition called dyskeratosis congenita, which causes abnormal changes in the skin and nails and white patches inside the mouth. People with this condition have an increased risk of bone marrow failure (a condition in which the bone marrow does not make enough blood cells), myelodysplastic syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of the lungs), and certain types of cancer.
dMMR: Describes cells that have mutations (changes) in certain genes that are involved in correcting mistakes made when DNA is copied in a cell. dMMR cells usually have many DNA mutations, which may lead to cancer. dMMR is most common in colorectal cancer, other types of gastrointestinal cancer, and endometrial cancer, but it may also be found in cancers of the breast, prostate, bladder, and thyroid and in an inherited disorder called Lynch syndrome. Knowing if a tumor is dMMR may help plan treatment or predict how well the tumor will respond to treatment. Also called deficient DNA mismatch repair, deficient mismatch repair, mismatch repair deficiency, and MMR deficiency.
DNA: The molecule inside cells that contains the genetic information needed for a person and most other organisms to develop and grow and is passed from one generation to the next. DNA is made up of two strands that twist into the shape of a spiral ladder called a double helix. Each strand has a backbone that is made up of sugar and phosphate molecules that attach to one of four bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). The bases pair up with one another (A with T, and G with C) to form chemical bonds, which act like rungs on a ladder. This holds the two strands of DNA together. Also called deoxyribonucleic acid.
DNA cross-linking agent: (… KROS-lin-king AY-jent); A substance that binds DNA nucleotides together and blocks DNA synthesis. In cancer treatment, DNA cross-linking agents may kill cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing.
DNA gene-expression microarray: (… jeen-ek-SPREH-shun MY-kroh-uh-RAY); A process that allows thousands of pieces of DNA that are fixed to a glass slide to be analyzed at one time. It is used to identify the genes (pieces of DNA) in specific cells or tissue that are actively used to make RNA, which then may be used to make proteins.
DNA index: (... IN-deks); In medicine, a measure of the amount of DNA or number of chromosomes in cancer cells compared to that in normal cells. Most human cells, except for egg and sperm cells, normally contain 46 chromosomes (23 pairs) in each cell. Cancer cells that have a DNA index of 1 have about the same amount of DNA or number of chromosomes as normal cells. If the DNA index is more than 1, the cancer cells have a higher-than-normal amount of DNA or extra chromosomes. The DNA index may be used to help plan treatment and estimate prognosis for some types of cancer, such as leukemia and neuroblastoma. Also called DNA ploidy.
DNA intercalating agent: (…in-TER-kuh-LAY-ting AY-jent); A substance that inserts itself into the DNA structure of a cell and binds to the DNA. This causes DNA damage. In cancer treatment, DNA intercalating agents may kill cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing.
DNA methylase: (… MEH-thih-LAYS); An enzyme (a protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body) that attaches methyl groups to DNA. A methyl group is a chemical group containing one carbon and three hydrogen atoms. Also called DNA methyltransferase.
DNA methyltransferase: (... MEH-thul-TRANZ-feh-rays); An enzyme (a protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body) that attaches methyl groups to DNA. A methyl group is a chemical group containing one carbon and three hydrogen atoms. Also called DNA methylase.
DNA ploidy: (… PLOY-dee); In medicine, a measure of the amount of DNA or number of chromosomes in cancer cells compared to that in normal cells. Most human cells, except for egg and sperm cells, normally contain 46 chromosomes (23 pairs) in each cell. Cancer cells that have a DNA ploidy of 1 have about the same amount of DNA or number of chromosomes as normal cells. If the DNA ploidy is more than 1, the cancer cells have a higher-than-normal amount of DNA or extra chromosomes. The DNA ploidy may be used to help plan treatment and estimate prognosis for some types of cancer, such as leukemia and neuroblastoma. Also called DNA index.
DNA repair deficiency syndrome: (… reh-PAYR deh-FIH-shun-see SIN-drome); A type of inherited disorder caused by mutations (changes) in certain genes involved in DNA repair. Changes in these genes can cause breaks, rearrangements, and other problems in the DNA. There are many different types of DNA repair deficiency syndromes. Most of these syndromes are marked by growth and developmental problems, premature aging, and disorders of the skin and nervous system. Having a DNA repair deficiency syndrome may increase a person’s risk of certain types of cancer. Also called DNA repair disorder.
DNA repair disorder: (… reh-PAYR dis-OR-der); A type of inherited disorder caused by mutations (changes) in certain genes involved in DNA repair. Changes in these genes can cause breaks, rearrangements, and other problems in the DNA. There are many different types of DNA repair disorders. Most of these disorders are marked by growth and developmental problems, premature aging, and disorders of the skin and nervous system. Having a DNA repair disorder may increase a person’s risk of certain types of cancer. Also called DNA repair deficiency syndrome.
DNA replication: (… reh-plih-KAY-shun); The process by which a copy of the DNA in a cell is made before the cell divides.
DNA sequencing: (… SEE-kwen-sing); A laboratory process used to learn the exact sequence (order) of the four building blocks, or bases, that make up DNA. Information is stored in DNA in a code made by arranging the four bases (identified by the letters A, C, G, and T) in different orders. DNA sequencing can be used to find DNA mutations (changes) that may cause diseases, such as cancer.
DNR order: (… OR-der); A legal document in which a person or their proxy (such as a spouse, relative, friend, or lawyer) states that health care providers should not use cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if that person’s heart or breathing stops. CPR is a life-saving procedure used to try to restart the heart and breathing after one or both have stopped. A DNR order is a decision only about CPR. It does not affect other treatments that may be used to help keep a person alive, such as medicine, food, or fluids. A DNR order may be included as part of an advance directive, such as a living will. Also called do not resuscitate order.
do not resuscitate order: (… ree-SUH-sih-TAYT OR-der); A legal document in which a person or their proxy (such as a spouse, relative, friend, or lawyer) states that health care providers should not use cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if that person’s heart or breathing stops. CPR is a life-saving procedure used to try to restart the heart and breathing after one or both have stopped. A do not resuscitate order is a decision only about CPR. It does not affect other treatments that may be used to help keep a person alive, such as medicine, food, or fluids. A do not resuscitate order may be included as part of an advance directive, such as a living will. Also called DNR order.
docetaxel: (DOH-seh-TAK-sil); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat certain types of breast cancer, stomach cancer, gastroesophageal junction cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Docetaxel stops cancer cells from growing and dividing and may kill them. It is a type of taxane. Also called Taxotere.
docetaxel-cisplatin-fluorouracil: (DOH-seh-TAK-sil-sis-PLA-tin-floor-oh-YOOR-uh-sil); A chemotherapy combination used to treat certain types of head and neck cancer and stomach cancer. It includes the drugs docetaxel (Taxotere), cisplatin (Platinol), and fluorouracil. Also called DCF, Taxotere-Platinol-fluorouracil, TPF, and TPF regimen.
dock: (dok); A plant that has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems. It may have anticancer effects. The scientific name is Rumex acetosella. Also called sheep sorrel and sorrel.
DOI: A procedure that uses light waves to create 2-dimensional (2-D) or 3-dimensional (3-D) pictures of tissues inside the body. DOI may be used to look at blood flow to the tissues and to measure changes in the amount of oxygen in them. This may help show the difference between normal and abnormal tissue. DOI may be especially useful for looking at soft tissue, such as breast and brain tissue. It is being studied as an imaging test to help diagnose early-stage breast cancer and other conditions. Also called diffuse optical imaging.
dolasetron mesylate: (doh-LAH-seh-tron MEH-zih-layt); A drug used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Dolasetron mesylate blocks the action of the chemical serotonin, which binds to certain nerves and may trigger nausea and vomiting. Blocking serotonin may help lessen nausea and vomiting. Dolasetron mesylate is a type of serotonin receptor antagonist and a type of antiemetic.
dolastatin 10: (DOH-luh-STA-tin …); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It binds to a protein that cells need to divide and it may kill cancer cells. Dolastatin 10 comes from a marine organism. It is a type of mitotic inhibitor.
donepezil: (doh-NEH-peh-zil); A drug that is used to treat Alzheimer disease and is being studied in the treatment of side effects caused by radiation therapy to the brain. It is a type of cholinesterase inhibitor.
dong quai: (dong kwye); An herb native to China. A substance taken from the roots has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat menstrual and menopausal problems. Dong quai may increase the effect of the drug warfarin (a blood-thinner). The scientific name is Angelica sinensis.
donor: (DOH-ner); In medicine, a person who gives blood, cells, tissue, or an organ for use in another person, such as in a blood transfusion or an organ transplant.
donor lymphocyte infusion: (DOH-ner LIM-foh-site in-FYOO-zhun); A type of therapy in which lymphocytes from the blood of a donor are given to a patient who has already received a stem cell transplant from the same donor. The donor lymphocytes may kill remaining cancer cells. Donor lymphocyte infusion is used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) that has come back and myeloma. It is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer.
dornase alfa inhalation solution: (DOR-nays AL-fuh in-huh-LAY-shun suh-LOO-shun); A drug given in an aerosol mist to decrease the thickness of mucus in the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis. It is also being studied as a treatment to reduce the thickness of saliva in patients being treated for head and neck cancer. Dornase alfa inhalation solution contains an enzyme that breaks the DNA in mucus into small pieces and makes the mucus thinner. Also called Pulmozyme.
dose: (dose); The amount of medicine taken, or radiation given, at one time.
dose-adjusted EPOCH-R: (… uh-JUS-ted …); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin), and rituximab. During each treatment cycle, the doses of some of the drugs may be increased or decreased to allow the patient to receive the dose that works the best with the fewest side effects. Also called DA-EPOCH-R, DA-EPOCH-R regimen, and dose-adjusted EPOCH-R regimen.
dose-adjusted EPOCH-R regimen: (… uh-JUS-ted … REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs etoposide phosphate, prednisone, vincristine sulfate (Oncovin), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin hydrochloride (hydroxydaunorubicin), and rituximab. During each treatment cycle, the doses of some of the drugs may be increased or decreased to allow the patient to receive the dose that works the best with the fewest side effects. Also called DA-EPOCH-R, DA-EPOCH-R regimen, and dose-adjusted EPOCH-R.
dose-dense chemotherapy: (dose-dents KEE-moh-THAYR-uh-pee); A chemotherapy treatment plan in which drugs are given with less time between treatments than in a standard chemotherapy treatment plan.
dose-dependent: (dose-deh-PEN-dent); Refers to the effects of treatment with a drug. If the effects change when the dose of the drug is changed, the effects are said to be dose-dependent.
dose-escalation study: (dose-EH-skuh-LAY-shun STUH-dee); A study that determines the best dose of a new drug or treatment. In a dose-escalation study, the dose of the test drug is increased a little at a time in different groups of people until the highest dose that does not cause harmful side effects is found. A dose-escalation study may also measure ways that the drug is used by the body and is often done as part of a phase I clinical trial. These trials usually include a small number of patients and may include healthy volunteers.
dose-limiting: (dose-LIH-mih-ting); Describes side effects of a drug or other treatment that are serious enough to prevent an increase in dose or level of that treatment.
dose-rate: (dose-rayt); The strength of a treatment given over a period of time.
dosimetrist: (doh-SIH-meh-trist); A person who determines the proper radiation dose for treatment.
dosimetry: (doh-SIH-meh-tree); Measurement of radiation exposure from x-rays, gamma rays, or other types of radiation used in the treatment or detection of diseases, including cancer.
dostarlimab: (dos-TAR-lih-mab); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat adults with certain types of endometrial cancer or other solid tumors that have come back or are advanced. These include cancers that have certain mutations (changes) in genes involved in DNA repair. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Dostarlimab binds to a protein called PD-1, which is found on T cells (a type of immune cell). Dostarlimab may block PD-1 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody and a type of immune checkpoint inhibitor. Also called Jemperli.
DOT: A procedure that uses light waves to create 3-dimensional (3-D) pictures of tissues inside the body. The pictures are created by a computer linked to the light source. DOT may be used to look at blood flow to the tissues and to measure changes in the amount of oxygen in them. This may help show the difference between normal and abnormal tissue. DOT may be especially useful for looking at soft tissue, such as breast and brain tissue. It is being studied as an imaging test to help diagnose early-stage breast cancer and other conditions. Also called diffuse optical tomography.
double autologous transplant: (DUH-bul aw-TAH-luh-gus TRANZ-plant); A type of transplant in which a patient receives two courses of high-dose chemotherapy, each course followed by an infusion of their own healthy blood-forming stem cells. The stem cells are collected and stored before the first high-dose chemotherapy treatment. The treatments are given weeks or months apart but are usually completed within a 6-month period. A double autologous transplant is used to treat certain types of cancer, such as neuroblastoma and multiple myeloma. Also called tandem transplant.
double balloon endoscopy: (DUH-bul buh-LOON en-DOS-koh-pee); A procedure used to look at the inside of the small intestine. A special instrument made up of two tubes (one inside the other) is inserted through the mouth or rectum and into the small intestine. The inside tube, which is an endoscope with a light and lens for viewing, is moved through part of the small intestine, and a balloon at the end of it is inflated to keep the endoscope in place. Next, the outer tube is moved through the small intestine to reach the end of the endoscope, and a balloon at the end of the outer tube is inflated to keep it in place. Then, the balloon at the end of the endoscope is deflated, and the endoscope is moved through the next part of the small intestine. These steps are repeated many times as the tubes move through the whole small intestine. This allows the doctor to see all of the small intestine. Tissue samples may be removed so they can be checked under a microscope for signs of disease. Also called DBE and double balloon enteroscopy.
double balloon enteroscopy: (DUH-bul buh-LOON en-teh-ROS-koh-pee); A procedure used to look at the inside of the small intestine. A special instrument made up of two tubes (one inside the other) is inserted through the mouth or rectum and into the small intestine. The inside tube, which is an endoscope with a light and lens for viewing, is moved through part of the small intestine, and a balloon at the end of it is inflated to keep the endoscope in place. Next, the outer tube is moved through the small intestine to reach the end of the endoscope, and a balloon at the end of the outer tube is inflated to keep it in place. Then, the balloon at the end of the endoscope is deflated, and the endoscope is moved through the next part of the small intestine. These steps are repeated many times as the tubes move through the whole small intestine. This allows the doctor to see all of the small intestine. Tissue samples may be removed so they can be checked under a microscope for signs of disease. Also called DBE and double balloon endoscopy.
double-blind study: (DUH-bul-blind STUH-dee); A type of clinical trial in which neither the participants nor the researcher knows which treatment or intervention participants are receiving until the clinical trial is over. This makes results of the study less likely to be biased. This means that the results are less likely to be affected by factors that are not related to the treatment or intervention being tested.
double-contrast barium enema: (DUH-bul-KON-trast BAYR-ee-um EH-neh-muh); A procedure in which x-rays of the colon and rectum are taken after a liquid containing barium is put into the rectum. Barium is a silver-white metallic compound that outlines the colon and rectum on an x-ray and helps show abnormalities. Air is put into the rectum and colon to further enhance the x-ray.
double-hit lymphoma: (DUH-bul-hit lim-FOH-muh); A rare, aggressive (fast-growing) type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma caused by changes in the DNA that affect a gene called the MYC gene and either the BCL2 gene or the BCL6 gene. Double-hit lymphoma may be hard to treat and has a poor prognosis. It is a type of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Also called DHL.
doubling time: (DUH-bling...); In biology, the amount of time it takes for one cell to divide or for a group of cells (such as a tumor) to double in size. The doubling time is different for different kinds of cancer cells or tumors.
douche: (doosh); A procedure in which the vagina is washed with water or a cleansing solution. Most cleansing solutions contain water mixed with vinegar, baking soda, or iodine. Regular douching can wash away some of the bacteria that normally live in the vagina. This may allow yeast or harmful types of bacteria to grow and cause infection. Douching may also cause other health problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and problems during pregnancy. Most doctors do not recommend douching.
Down syndrome: (...SIN-drome); A genetic condition caused by having an extra chromosome 21 in some or all of the body’s cells. Down syndrome is marked by growth, developmental, and learning delays that vary from mild to severe. People with Down syndrome often have certain distinct physical features, such as a shorter-than-normal height, a flat face with a short nose, eyes that are slanted and almond-shaped, small ears, a short neck, a tongue that tends to stick out of the mouth, small hands and feet, and a deep line that goes across the palm of the hand. People with Down syndrome may also have muscle weakness, loose joints, heart defects, and other health problems. Having Down syndrome increases the risk of developing Alzheimer disease at an early age, usually around the age of 50, and leukemia, especially in young children. Down syndrome is usually not inherited (passed from parent to child). Also called trisomy 21.
downstaging: (…STAY-jing); In cancer, changing the stage used to describe the extent of cancer in the body from a higher stage (indicating more extensive disease) to a lower stage (indicating less extensive disease). Staging is usually based on the size of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread. Downstaging may occur as a result of treatment that shrinks a tumor so it can be removed by surgery that otherwise could not have been done.
doxazosin mesylate: (dok-SAY-zoh-sin MEH-zih-layt); A drug used to treat high blood pressure and urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. It relaxes muscle tissue in blood vessels and in the prostate. Doxazosin mesylate is a type of alpha blocker. Also called Cardura.
doxercalciferol: (DOK-ser-kal-SIH-feh-rol); A substance being studied in the prevention of recurrent prostate cancer. It is a type of vitamin D analog.
Doxil: (DOK-sil); A form of the anticancer drug doxorubicin that is contained inside very tiny, fat-like particles and is used alone or with other drugs to treat certain types of ovarian cancer, AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma, and multiple myeloma. Doxil may have fewer side effects and work better than other forms of doxorubicin hydrochloride. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Doxil is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome and liposomal doxorubicin hydrochloride.
doxorubicin hydrochloride: (DOK-soh-ROO-bih-sin HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A drug that comes from the bacterium Streptomyces peucetius and is used alone or with other drugs to treat many types of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, sarcoma, Wilms tumor, and certain cancers of the lung, breast, stomach, ovary, thyroid, and bladder. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Doxorubicin hydrochloride damages the cell’s DNA and may kill cancer cells. It also blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair. Doxorubicin hydrochloride is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Doxorubicin is the active ingredient of doxorubicin hydrochloride. Also called Adriamycin and hydroxydaunorubicin.
doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome: (DOK-soh-ROO-bih-sin HY-droh-KLOR-ide LY-poh-some); A form of the anticancer drug doxorubicin that is contained inside very tiny, fat-like particles and is used alone or with other drugs to treat certain types of ovarian cancer, AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma, and multiple myeloma. Doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome may have fewer side effects and work better than other forms of doxorubicin hydrochloride. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called Doxil and liposomal doxorubicin hydrochloride.
doxycycline hyclate: (DOK-suh-SY-kleen HY-klayt); A drug used to treat many types of bacterial infections. It stops the growth of bacteria by keeping them from making proteins. It is a type of antibiotic.
DPA: A legal document that gives one person (such as a spouse, relative, friend, or lawyer) the authority to make medical, legal, or financial decisions for another person. A DPA may go into effect right away or when the person who grants it is no longer able to make decisions for themself, depending on how it is written. In most cases, a DPA remains in effect until the person who grants it dies or cancels it. It does not need to be renewed over time. Also called durable power of attorney.
DPPE: Belongs to a group of antihormone drugs.
DR4: A protein on the surface of certain cells that binds another protein called TRAIL, which may kill some cancer cells. An increase in the amount or activity of DR4 on cancer cells may kill more cells. Also called death receptor 4, TRAIL receptor 1, TRAIL-R1, and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 10A.
DR5: A protein on the surface of certain cells that binds another protein called TRAIL, which may kill some cancer cells. An increase in the amount or activity of DR5 on cancer cells may kill more cells. Also called death receptor 5, TRAIL receptor 2, TRAIL-R2, and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 10B.
drain: (drayn); In medicine, to remove fluid as it collects; or, a tube or wick-like device used to remove fluid from a body cavity, wound, or infected area.
DRE: An examination in which a doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities. Also called digital rectal examination.
drenching night sweats: (DREN-ching …); Episodes of excessive sweating that occur during sleep and soak a person’s bedclothes and bed sheets, which may cause the person to wake up. Drenching night sweats that do not go away and occur with other signs and symptoms, such as fever, weight loss, and fatigue, may be a symptom of some types of cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma. Not all people who have drenching night sweats have cancer.
DRI: A set of guidelines developed by U.S. and Canadian scientists to give information about the role of nutrients in human health. These guidelines include the Reference Daily Intakes (RDI), which are the recommended amounts of nutrients to be eaten each day to meet the needs of most healthy people. This system replaced the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). Also called Dietary Reference Intakes.
driver mutation: (DRI-ver myoo-TAY-shun); A term used to describe changes in the DNA sequence of genes that cause cells to become cancer cells and grow and spread in the body. Checking tumor tissue for driver mutations may help plan treatment to stop cancer cells from growing, including drugs that target a specific mutation.
dronabinol: (droh-NA-bih-nol); A synthetic pill form of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an active ingredient in marijuana that is used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy.
droperidol: (droh-PAYR-ih-dol); A drug used to prevent nausea and vomiting in patients who receive anesthesia before surgery. It is also used to treat anxiety. Droperidol is a type of antiemetic, adjunct anesthesia, and antipsychotic.
dropouts: (DRAHP-owts); In a clinical trial, the withdrawal of participation prior to the occurrence of the primary endpoint. Dropouts are a key source of missing data.
Droxia: (DROK-see-uh); A drug that contains the active ingredient hydroxyurea and is used to treat certain patients with sickle cell anemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other conditions and some types of cancer. Droxia may help keep abnormal red blood cells from forming, which may reduce the number of painful sickle cell crises and the need for blood transfusions. It is a type of antimetabolite.
drug: (drug); Any substance (other than food) that is used to prevent, diagnose, treat, or relieve symptoms of a disease or abnormal condition. Drugs can also affect how the brain and the rest of the body work and cause changes in mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, or behavior. Some types of drugs, such as opioids, may be abused or lead to addiction.
drug abuse: (...uh-BYOOS); The use of illegal drugs or the use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs for purposes other than those for which they are meant to be used, or in excessive amounts. Drug abuse may lead to social, physical, emotional, and job-related problems.
Drug Accountability Record: (… uh-KOWN-tuh-BIH-lih-tee REH-kurd); A log of study drugs kept by an investigator running a clinical trial. It lists many things about each drug, including the drug name, lot number, expiration date, the amount of drug received, used, returned, or thrown away, and the amount left. Drug Accountability Records help make sure that a clinical trial is done safely and correctly. Drug Accountability Records are required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Also called DAR.
drug interaction: (… IN-teh-RAK-shun); A change in the way a drug acts in the body when taken with certain other drugs, herbals, or foods, or when taken with certain medical conditions. Drug interactions may cause the drug to be more or less effective, or cause effects on the body that are not expected.
drug product: (… PRAH-dukt); A dosage form that contains one or more active and/or inactive ingredients. Drug products come in many dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, creams, and patches. They can also be given in different ways, such as by mouth, by infusion into a vein, or by drops that are put into the ear or eye. The form with the active ingredient is used to prevent, diagnose, treat, or relieve symptoms of a disease or abnormal condition. A drug product that does not contain an active ingredient and is used in research studies is called a placebo. Also called medication.
drug resistance: (... reh-ZIH-stunts); When cancer cells or microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, don’t respond to a drug that is usually able to kill or weaken them. Drug resistance may be present before treatment is given or may occur during or after treatment with the drug. In cancer treatment, there are many things that may cause resistance to anticancer drugs. For example, DNA changes or other genetic changes may change the way the drug gets into the cancer cells or the way the drug is broken down within the cancer cells. Drug resistance can lead to cancer treatment not working or to the cancer coming back.
drug substance: (… SUB-stunts); The main ingredient in a medicine that causes the desired effect of the medicine. Some medicines contain more than one drug substance that act in different ways in the body. Also called active pharmaceutical ingredient, API, and pharmacologic substance.
drug therapy: (… THAYR-uh-pee); Treatment with any substance, other than food, that is used to prevent, diagnose, treat, or relieve symptoms of a disease or abnormal condition.
drug tolerance: (... TAH-leh-runts); A condition that occurs when the body gets used to a medicine so that either more medicine is needed or different medicine is needed.
dry orgasm: (dry OR-ga-zum); Sexual climax without the release of semen from the penis.
DSMB: Data and Safety Monitoring Board. An impartial group that oversees a clinical trial and reviews the results to see if they are acceptable. This group determines if the trial should be changed or closed. Also called Data and Safety Monitoring Board.
DT2219ARL immunotoxin: (… IH-myoo-noh-TOK-sin); A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of B-cell cancer. It contains an antibody linked to a toxic substance. The antibody binds to proteins called CD19 and CD22 on the surface of B cells, and the toxic substance kills the cells. It is a type of bispecific ligand-directed toxin.
DT388IL3 fusion protein: (...FYOO-zhun PROH-teen); A substance being studied in the treatment of myeloid leukemia (a disease in which too many immature non-lymphocyte white blood cells are found in the blood and bone marrow). DT388IL3 fusion protein is made by combining IL-3 with a toxic substance. The IL-3 attaches to the cancer cells and the toxic substance kills them.
DTGM fusion protein: (... FYOO-zhun PROH-teen); An anticancer drug formed by the combination of diphtheria toxin and a colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The colony-stimulating factor is attracted to cancer cells, and the diphtheria toxin kills the cells.
DTH: An inflammatory response that develops 24 to 72 hours after exposure to an antigen that the immune system recognizes as foreign. This type of immune response involves mainly T cells rather than antibodies (which are made by B cells). Also called delayed-type hypersensitivity response.
DU 145: A cell line made from human prostate cancer cells that is used in the laboratory to study the way prostate cancer cells grow.
dual energy x-ray absorptiometry: (... EH-ner-jee ... ub-SORP-shee-AH-meh-tree); A procedure that measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in a bone by passing x-rays with two different energy levels through the bone. A dual energy x-ray absorptiometry shows the strength and thickness of a bone and is usually done in the lower spine, hip, lower arm, wrist, fingers, and heel. It is used to diagnose osteoporosis (a condition of lower bone density), to see how well osteoporosis treatments are working, and to predict how likely the bones are to break. A dual energy x-ray absorptiometry also measures fat and muscle composition in specific parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, and pelvis. Also called BMD scan, bone densitometry, bone mineral density scan, DEXA scan, and DXA.
duct: (dukt); In medicine, a tube or vessel of the body through which fluids pass.
ductal carcinoma: (DUK-tul KAR-sih-NOH-muh); The most common type of breast cancer. It begins in the lining of the milk ducts (thin tubes that carry milk from the lobules of the breast to the nipple). Ductal carcinoma may be either ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or invasive ductal carcinoma. DCIS is a noninvasive condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct and have not spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. In some cases, DCIS may become invasive cancer. In invasive ductal carcinoma, cancer has spread outside the breast duct to surrounding normal tissue. It can also spread through the blood and lymph systems to other parts of the body.
ductal carcinoma in situ: (DUK-tul KAR-sih-NOH-muh in SY-too); A condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct. The abnormal cells have not spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. In some cases, ductal carcinoma in situ may become invasive breast cancer and spread to other tissues. At this time, there is no way to know which abnormal cells could become invasive. Also called DCIS and intraductal breast carcinoma.
ductal intraepithelial neoplasia: (DUK-tul IN-truh-eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh); A condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct (milk duct). Having ductal intraepithelial neoplasia may increase the risk of breast cancer in which these abnormal cells become cancer and spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. Types of ductal intraepithelial neoplasia include atypical ductal hyperplasia and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Also called DIN.
ductal lavage: (DUK-tul luh-VAZH); A method used to collect cells from milk ducts in the breast. A hair-size catheter (tube) is inserted into the nipple, and a small amount of salt water is released into the duct. The water picks up breast cells, and is removed. The cells are checked under a microscope. Ductal lavage may be used in addition to clinical breast examination and mammography to detect breast cancer.
ductography: (duk-TAH-gruh-fee); A procedure that uses x-rays to create pictures of milk ducts in the breast. A very thin catheter (tube) is inserted into the nipple, and a small amount of dye is injected into the duct. This makes the duct easier to see on the x-ray. Ductography is used in patients who have a bloody or clear discharge from one nipple. A small amount of the fluid may be collected to check for infection or cancer cells. Ductography may be used to help diagnose certain breast conditions, such as papillomas (wart-like growths) in a milk duct, fibrocystic breast changes, and breast cancer. Also called galactography.
Dukes A colorectal cancer: (dooks ... KOH-loh-REK-tul KAN-ser); Cancer has formed in the mucosa (innermost layer) of the colon and/or rectum wall and has spread to the submucosa (layer of tissue next to the mucosa) or to the muscle layer of the colon and/or rectum wall. Also called stage I colorectal cancer.
Dukes B colorectal cancer: (dooks ... KOH-loh-REK-tul KAN-ser); Cancer has spread (1) through the muscle layer of the colon and/or rectal wall to the serosa (outermost layer) of the colon and/or rectal wall; or (2) through the serosa of the colon and/or rectal wall but has not spread to nearby organs; or (3) through the serosa of the colon and/or rectal wall to nearby organs. Also called stage II colorectal cancer.
Dukes C colorectal cancer: (dooks ... KOH-loh-REK-tul KAN-ser); Cancer (1) has spread through the mucosa (innermost layer) of the colon and/or rectal wall to the submucosa (layer of tissue under the mucosa) and may have spread to the muscle layer of the colon and/or rectal wall. Cancer has spread to at least one but not more than 3 nearby lymph nodes, or cancer cells have formed in tissues near the lymph nodes; or cancer has spread through the mucosa of the colon and/or rectal wall to the submucosa. Cancer has spread to at least 4 but not more than 6 nearby lymph nodes. OR, (2) cancer has spread through the muscle layer of the colon and/or rectal wall to the serosa (outermost layer) of the colon and/or rectal wall or has spread through the serosa but not to nearby organs. Cancer has spread to at least one but not more than 3 nearby lymph nodes, or cancer cells have formed in tissues near the lymph nodes; or cancer has spread to the muscle layer of the colon and/or rectal wall or to the serosa of the colon and/or rectal wall. Cancer has spread to at least 4 but not more than 6 nearby lymph nodes; or cancer has spread through the mucosa of the colon and/or rectal wall to the submucosa and may have spread to the muscle layer of the colon and/or rectal wall. Cancer has spread to 7 or more nearby lymph nodes. OR, (3) cancer has spread through the serosa of the colon and/or rectal wall but has not spread to nearby organs. Cancer has spread to at least 4 but not more than 6 nearby lymph nodes; or cancer has spread through the muscle layer of the colon and/or rectal wall to the serosa of the colon and/or rectal wall or has spread through the serosa but has not spread to nearby organs. Cancer has spread to 7 or more nearby lymph nodes; or cancer has spread through the serosa of the colon and/or rectal wall and has spread to nearby organs. Cancer has spread to one or more nearby lymph nodes, or cancer cells have formed in tissues near the lymph nodes. Also called stage III colorectal cancer.
Dukes classification: (dooks KLA-sih-fih-KAY-shun); A staging system used to describe the extent of colorectal cancer. Stages range from A (early stage) to D (advanced stage).
duloxetine hydrochloride: (duh-LOK-suh-teen HY-droh-KLOR-ide); A drug used to treat depression and peripheral neuropathy (pain, numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness in the hands or feet) that can occur with diabetes. It is also being studied in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy caused by certain anticancer drugs. Duloxetine hydrochloride increases the amount of certain chemicals in the brain that help relieve depression and pain. It is a type of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Also called Cymbalta.
dumping syndrome: (DUM-ping SIN-drome); A condition that occurs when food or liquid moves too fast into the small intestine. Symptoms include cramps, nausea, diarrhea, sweating, weakness, and dizziness. Dumping syndrome sometimes occurs in people who have had part or all of their stomach removed.
duodenitis: (DOO-ah-deh-NY-tis); Inflammation of the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine that connects to the stomach).
duodenum: (DOO-ah-DEE-num); The first part of the small intestine. It connects to the stomach. The duodenum helps to further digest food coming from the stomach. It absorbs nutrients (vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, proteins) and water from food so they can be used by the body.
dura mater: (DER-uh MAY-ter); The tough outer layer of tissue that covers and protects the brain and spinal cord and is closest to the skull. The dura mater is one of the three layers that form the meninges.
durable power of attorney: (DER-uh-bul POW-er ... uh-TER-nee); A legal document that gives one person (such as a spouse, relative, friend, or lawyer) the authority to make medical, legal, or financial decisions for another person. A durable power of attorney may go into effect right away or when the person who grants it is no longer able to make decisions for themself, depending on how it is written. In most cases, a durable power of attorney remains in effect until the person who grants it dies or cancels it. It does not need to be renewed over time. Also called DPA.
durable power of attorney for health care: (DER-uh-bul POW-er ... uh-TER-nee ... helth kayr); A type of advance directive that gives a person (called a proxy) the authority to make medical decisions for another person if that person is not able to make their own decisions. A proxy is usually a spouse, relative, friend, or lawyer who knows the person's values, wishes, and treatment preferences. Also called health care proxy and medical power of attorney.
durvalumab: (dur-VAL-yoo-mab); A drug that binds to the protein PD-L1 to help immune cells kill cancer cells better and is used to treat different types of cancer. Durvalumab is used alone or with other drugs to treat adults with certain types of biliary tract cancer (including bile duct cancer and gallbladder cancer), bladder cancer, endometrial cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of liver cancer), non-small cell lung cancer, and small cell lung cancer. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Durvalumab may block PD-L1 and help the immune system kill cancer cells. It is a type of monoclonal antibody and a type of immune checkpoint inhibitor. Also called Imfinzi.
dutasteride: (doo-TAS-teh-ride); A drug used to treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland. It is being studied in the treatment of male hair loss and prostate cancer. Dutasteride blocks enzymes the body needs to make male sex hormones. It is a type of 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Also called Avodart and GG745.
duvelisib: (DOO-veh-LIH-sib); A drug used to treat adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or small lymphocytic lymphoma that came back or did not get better after treatment with at least two other therapies. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Duvelisib blocks certain proteins, which may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. It is a type of kinase inhibitor. Also called Copiktra.
DVT: The formation of a blood clot in a deep vein of the leg or lower pelvis. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected area. Also called deep vein thrombosis.
DX-52-1: An anticancer drug that is a type of antitumor antibiotic. It is an anthracycline.
DX-8951f: An anticancer drug that is a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called exatecan mesylate.
DXA: A procedure that measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in a bone by passing x-rays with two different energy levels through the bone. A DXA shows the strength and thickness of a bone and is usually done in the lower spine, hip, lower arm, wrist, fingers, and heel. It is used to diagnose osteoporosis (a condition of lower bone density), to see how well osteoporosis treatments are working, and to predict how likely the bones are to break. A DXA also measures fat and muscle composition in specific parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, and pelvis. Also called BMD scan, bone densitometry, bone mineral density scan, DEXA scan, and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry.
dysautonomia: (dis-aw-toh-NOH-mee-uh); A condition that affects the part of the nervous system called the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS controls many important automatic body processes, such as blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, body temperature, digestion, sweating, urination, and sexual response. Dysautonomia can affect all or part of the ANS and can cause serious problems, such as heart and blood pressure problems, trouble breathing or swallowing, or impotence in males. There are many different types of dysautonomias. They may be inherited or caused by injury or by conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson disease, autoimmune disease, and alcoholism. Sometimes, the cause is not known. Also called autonomic nervous system disorder.
dyscrasia: (dis-KRAY-zhuh); Disease. Usually refers to diseases of the blood.
dysesthesia: (DIH-ses-THEE-zhuh); A condition in which a sense, especially touch, is distorted. Dysesthesia can cause an ordinary stimulus to be unpleasant or painful. It can also cause insensitivity to a stimulus.
dysfunction: (dis-FUNK-shun); A state of not functioning normally.
dysgerminoma: (DIS-jer-mih-NOH-muh); A type of cancer that begins in germ cells in females. Germ cells are cells that form sperm in males or eggs in females. Dysgerminomas occur most often in the ovaries, but they may also occur in other areas of the body, including the central nervous system. Some dysgerminomas make a hormone called beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-HCG) that may cause signs and symptoms of disease. Dysgerminomas tend to grow and spread slowly. They are the most common type of ovarian germ cell tumor. They usually occur in teenage girls or young women.
dysgeusia: (dis-GOO-zee-uh); A bad taste in the mouth. Also called parageusia.
dyskeratosis congenita: (dis-KAYR-uh-TOH-sis kun-JEH-nih-tuh); A rare, inherited disorder that can affect many parts of the body, especially the nails, skin, and mouth. It is marked by abnormally shaped fingernails and toenails that may grow poorly; changes in skin color, especially on the neck and chest; and white patches inside the mouth. Other problems may include hair loss or early graying of the hair, eye and dental problems, osteoporosis, joint problems, liver disease, and a narrowing of the urethra (tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body) in men. People with dyskeratosis congenita may develop serious conditions, such as bone marrow failure, myelodysplastic syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, and certain types of cancer, especially leukemia and cancers of the head and neck, mouth, anus, and genitals. Dyskeratosis congenita may be caused by mutations (changes) in certain genes that affect the length of telomeres (the ends of chromosomes). Also called DKC.
dyspepsia: (dis-PEP-see-uh); Upset stomach.
dysphagia: (dis-FAY-jee-uh); Difficulty swallowing.
dysphonia: (dis-FOH-nee-uh); Trouble with the voice when trying to talk, including hoarseness and change in pitch or quality or voice.
dysplasia: (dis-PLAY-zhuh); A term used to describe the presence of abnormal cells within a tissue or organ. Dysplasia is not cancer, but it may sometimes become cancer. Dysplasia can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how abnormal the cells look under a microscope and how much of the tissue or organ is affected.
dysplastic nevus: (dis-PLAS-tik NEE-vus); A specific type of nevus (mole) that looks different from a common mole. Dysplastic nevi are mostly flat and often larger than common moles and have borders that are irregular. A dysplastic nevus can contain different colors, which can range from pink to dark brown. Parts of the mole may be raised above the skin surface. A dysplastic nevus may develop into melanoma (a type of skin cancer), and the more dysplastic nevi a person has, the higher the risk of melanoma. A dysplastic nevus is sometimes called an atypical mole.
dyspnea: (DISP-nee-uh); Difficult, painful breathing or shortness of breath.
dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa: (dis-TROH-fik EH-pih-der-MAH-lih-sis buh-LOH-suh); A rare, inherited disorder in which blisters form on the skin and the moist inner lining of some organs and body cavities. The blisters usually appear at birth and may occur on certain parts of the body (such as the hands, feet, elbows, and knees) or all over the body (including the mouth, esophagus, and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, the eyes, and the genitourinary tract). This can lead to scarring in the affected areas and thinning of the skin. Other signs and symptoms include small white bumps on the skin; deformities in the fingers, toes, nails, teeth, and joints; trouble chewing and swallowing; vision loss and other eye problems; anemia; slow growth; and poor nutrition. Some people with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa have a very high risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer at an early age. There are several types of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. It is caused by a mutation (change) in the COL7A1 gene. Also called DEB.