NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

213 results found for: V

VAC: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat rhabdomyosarcoma in children. It is also used to treat certain types of ovarian germ cell tumors. VAC includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, dactinomycin (actinomycin-D), and cyclophosphamide. Also called VAC regimen.
VAC regimen: (... REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat rhabdomyosarcoma in children. It is also used to treat certain types of ovarian germ cell tumors. VAC regimen includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, dactinomycin (actinomycin-D), and cyclophosphamide. Also called VAC.
VAC-IE: (VAK …); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat Ewing sarcoma and other sarcomas, such as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), and cyclophosphamide, followed by ifosfamide and etoposide phosphate. Also called VAC-IE regimen, VAdriaC-IE, and VAdriaC-IE regimen.
VAC-IE regimen: (VAK … REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat Ewing sarcoma and other sarcomas, such as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), and cyclophosphamide, followed by ifosfamide and etoposide phosphate. Also called VAC-IE, VAdriaC-IE, and VAdriaC-IE regimen.
VACB: A procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the breast. An imaging device is used to guide a hollow probe connected to a vacuum device. The probe is inserted through a tiny cut made in numbed skin on the breast. The tissue sample is removed using gentle vacuum suction and a small rotating knife within the probe. Then the tissue sample is studied under a microscope to check for signs of disease. This procedure causes very little scarring and no stitches are needed. Also called vacuum-assisted biopsy and vacuum-assisted core biopsy.
vaccinated: (VAK-sih-NAY-ted); Treated with a vaccine.
vaccination: (VAK-sih-NAY-shun); Treatment with a vaccine.
vaccine: (vak-SEEN); A substance or group of substances meant to cause the immune system to respond to a tumor or to microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses. A vaccine can help the body recognize and destroy cancer cells or microorganisms.
vaccine adjuvant: (vak-SEEN A-juh-vunt); A substance added to a vaccine to improve the immune response so that less vaccine is needed.
vaccine therapy: (vak-SEEN THAYR-uh-pee); A type of treatment that uses a substance or group of substances to stimulate the immune system to destroy a tumor or infectious microorganisms such as bacteria or viruses.
vaccinia CEA vaccine: (vak-SIH-nee-uh … vak-SEEN); A vaccine made by putting the gene for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) into the vaccinia virus. The vaccinia virus is related to the virus used to make the smallpox vaccine. CEA is a tumor marker. The vaccinia CEA vaccine may help the immune system recognize and kill cancer cells that make CEA.
vaccinia-TRICOM vaccine: (vak-SIH-nee-uh … vak-SEEN); A cancer vaccine made with a form of a vaccinia virus that does not cause disease in humans. It is being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. The virus is changed in the laboratory to make human proteins that may help immune cells in the body kill tumor cells. Also called recombinant vaccinia-TRICOM vaccine and rV-TRICOM.
vacuum aspiration: (VAK-yoom AS-pih-RAY-shun); A surgical procedure in which the cervix is dilated (opened) and vacuum is used to remove tissue from the uterus. Also called suction aspiration and suction evacuation.
vacuum-assisted biopsy: (VA-kyoom-uh-SIS-ted BY-op-see); A procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the breast. An imaging device is used to guide a hollow probe connected to a vacuum device. The probe is inserted through a tiny cut made in numbed skin on the breast. The tissue sample is removed using gentle vacuum suction and a small rotating knife within the probe. Then the tissue sample is studied under a microscope to check for signs of disease. This procedure causes very little scarring and no stitches are needed. Also called VACB and vacuum-assisted core biopsy.
vacuum-assisted core biopsy: (VA-kyoom-uh-SIS-ted … BY-op-see); A procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the breast. An imaging device is used to guide a hollow probe connected to a vacuum device. The probe is inserted through a tiny cut made in numbed skin on the breast. The tissue sample is removed using gentle vacuum suction and a small rotating knife within the probe. Then the tissue sample is studied under a microscope to check for signs of disease. This procedure causes very little scarring and no stitches are needed. Also called VACB and vacuum-assisted biopsy.
VAdriaC: (VAY-dree-ak); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat Ewing sarcoma and other sarcomas, such as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), and cyclophosphamide. Also called VAdriaC regimen.
VAdriaC regimen: (VAY-dree-ak REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat Ewing sarcoma and other sarcomas, such as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), and cyclophosphamide. Also called VAdriaC.
VAdriaC-IE: (VAY-dree-ak …); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat Ewing sarcoma and other sarcomas, such as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), and cyclophosphamide, followed by ifosfamide and etoposide phosphate. Also called VAC-IE, VAC-IE regimen, and VAdriaC-IE regimen.
VAdriaC-IE regimen: (VAY-dree-ak … REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat Ewing sarcoma and other sarcomas, such as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), and cyclophosphamide, followed by ifosfamide and etoposide phosphate. Also called VAC-IE, VAC-IE regimen, and VAdriaC-IE.
vagina: (vuh-JY-nuh); The muscular canal that goes from the uterus to the outside of the body. During birth, the baby passes through the vagina. Also called birth canal.
vaginal: (VA-jih-nul); Having to do with the vagina (the birth canal).
vaginal atrophy: (VA-jih-nul A-troh-fee); A condition in which the tissues lining the inside of the vagina (birth canal) become thin, dry, and inflamed. This is caused by a decrease in the amount of estrogen (a female hormone) made by the body. Symptoms of vaginal atrophy include vaginal dryness, itching, and burning, and pain during sexual intercourse. Other symptoms include a burning feeling while urinating, feeling a need to urinate often or right away, and being unable to control the flow of urine. Vaginal atrophy most commonly occurs in women who have gone through menopause naturally or who have early menopause caused by certain types of cancer treatment (such as radiation therapy to the pelvis or chemotherapy) or by having their ovaries removed by surgery. Also called atrophic vaginitis.
vaginal cancer: (VA-jih-nul KAN-ser); Cancer that forms in the tissues of the vagina (birth canal). The vagina leads from the cervix (the opening of the uterus) to the outside of the body. The most common type of vaginal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the thin, flat cells lining the vagina. Another type of vaginal cancer is adenocarcinoma, cancer that begins in glandular cells in the lining of the vagina.
vaginal dilation therapy: (VA-jih-nul DY-LAY-shun THAYR-uh-pee); A method used to prevent the closing of the vagina (the birth canal) after radiation therapy to the pelvis. The patient puts a dilator (tube-like device) coated with an oily or slippery substance into her vagina.
vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia: (VA-jih-nul IN-truh-eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh); Abnormal cells are found in tissue lining the vagina (birth canal). These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into the vaginal wall. Also called VAIN.
vaginal stenosis: (VA-jih-nul steh-NOH-sis); A condition in which the vagina (birth canal) becomes narrower and shorter. The lining of the vagina may also be thinner and drier and contain scar tissue. This can cause pain during sexual intercourse or a pelvic exam. Vaginal stenosis is often caused by radiation therapy to the pelvis or some types of surgery.
vaginectomy: (va-jih-NEK-toh-mee); Surgery to remove part or all of the vagina (the birth canal).
VAIN: Abnormal cells are found in tissue lining the vagina (birth canal). These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into the vaginal wall. Also called vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia.
valacyclovir: (VAL-uh-SY-kloh-veer); A substance that is being studied in the prevention of fungal, bacterial, and viral infections in patients undergoing donor stem cell transplantation with cells that are infected with cytomegalovirus. It belongs to the family of drugs called antivirals.
Valchlor: (VAL-klor); A drug used on the skin to treat stage I mycosis fungoides (a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma) in patients who have already been treated with other therapy. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Valchlor damages the cell's DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of alkylating agent. Also called mechlorethamine hydrochloride and mustine.
valdecoxib: (VAL-deh-KOK-sib); A substance that is being studied as a treatment for pain and other side effects of cancer therapy. It belongs to the family of drugs called COX-2 inhibitors.
valerian: (vuh-LEER-ee-un); A plant whose roots are used as a sedative and to treat certain medical conditions. It is being studied as a way to improve sleep in cancer patients undergoing treatment. Also called garden heliotrope, garden valerian, Indian valerian, Mexican valerian, Pacific valerian, Valeriana officinalis, and Valerianae radix.
Valeriana officinalis: (vuh-LEER-ee-a-nuh uh-FIH-sih-NUH-lis); A plant whose roots are used as a sedative and to treat certain medical conditions. It is being studied as a way to improve sleep in cancer patients undergoing treatment. Also called garden heliotrope, garden valerian, Indian valerian, Mexican valerian, Pacific valerian, valerian, and Valerianae radix.
Valerianae radix: (vuh-LEER-ee-un-i RAY-dix); A plant whose roots are used as a sedative and to treat certain medical conditions. It is being studied as a way to improve sleep in cancer patients undergoing treatment. Also called garden heliotrope, garden valerian, Indian valerian, Mexican valerian, Pacific valerian, valerian, and Valeriana officinalis.
valganciclovir: (VAL-gan-SY-kloh-veer); An antiviral agent that is being studied as a treatment for AIDS-related cytomegalovirus. It is changed in the body to ganciclovir.
Valium: (VAL-ee-um); A drug used to treat mild to moderate anxiety and tension and to relax muscles. It is a type of benzodiazepine. Also called diazepam.
valproic acid: (val-PROH-ik A-sid); 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 Depakene and Stavzor.
valrubicin: (val-ROO-bih-sin); A drug used to treat bladder carcinoma in situ that did not get better after treatment with bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). It is used in patients who cannot have surgery right away to remove all or part of the bladder. Valrubicin is given as a solution through a catheter that is placed into the bladder. It blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair and may kill cancer cells. Valrubicin is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called AD 32 and Valstar.
Valstar: (VAL-star); A drug used to treat bladder carcinoma in situ that did not get better after treatment with bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). It is used in patients who cannot have surgery right away to remove all or part of the bladder. Valstar is given as a solution through a catheter that is placed into the bladder. It blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair and may kill cancer cells. Valstar is a type of anthracycline antibiotic and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called AD 32 and valrubicin.
value-based pricing: (VAL-yoo-bayst PRY-sing); A system of setting the cost for a health care service in which health care providers are paid based on the quality of care they provide rather than the number of health care services they give or the number of patients they treat. Value-based pricing may give patients access to better treatments for lower costs. This may help reduce financial stress or hardship on patients receiving medical care.
VAMP: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used with radiation therapy to treat low-risk childhood Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), methotrexate, and prednisone. Also called VAMP regimen.
VAMP regimen: (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used with radiation therapy to treat low-risk childhood Hodgkin lymphoma. It includes the drugs vincristine sulfate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), methotrexate, and prednisone. Also called VAMP.
vancomycin: (VAN-koh-MY-sin); An antibiotic drug used to fight resistant bacterial infections.
vandetanib: (van-DEH-tuh-nib); A drug used to treat medullary thyroid cancer that is locally advanced and cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vandetanib blocks certain proteins, which may help keep cancer cells from growing. It may also prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. Vandetanib is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called Caprelsa and ZD6474.
Vanflyta: (van-FLIH-tah); A drug used with certain chemotherapy drugs and then alone as maintenance therapy to treat adults with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia that has a certain mutation in the FLT3 gene. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vanflyta blocks FLT3 and other proteins, which may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Also called quizartinib dihydrochloride.
Vantas: (VAN-tus); A drug used as palliative therapy for advanced prostate cancer. Vantas keeps the testicles from making the male hormone testosterone by blocking other hormones that are needed to make it. This may slow or stop the growth of cancer cells that need testosterone to grow. Vantas contains the active ingredient histrelin acetate. It is a type of LHRH (or GnRH) agonist and a type of androgen deprivation therapy that is reversible.
vaporized: (VAY-per-ized); In chemistry, describes the change of a solid or liquid substance into a gas or vapor (mist). This usually occurs when the substance is heated above normal room temperature without burning it.
vapreotide: (vah-PREE-oh-tide); A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called somatostatin analogs.
varenicline tartrate: (vuh-REH-nih-klin TAR-trayt); A drug used to help people stop smoking by acting the same way nicotine acts in the brain. It is a type of nicotine receptor partial agonist. Also called Chantix.
variable expressivity: (VAYR-ee-uh-bul ek-spreh-SIH-vih-tee); Refers to the difference in the way that signs and symptoms of a genetic condition can show up in individual patients who have that condition. For example, some patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 may have only mild symptoms, such as brown spots and freckling on the skin, and others may have more severe symptoms, such as brain tumors and tumors on the nerves.
variant: (VAYR-ee-unt); Any change in the DNA sequence of a cell. Variants may be caused by mistakes during cell division, or they may be caused by exposure to DNA-damaging agents in the environment. Variants can be harmful, beneficial, or have no effect. If they occur in cells that make eggs or sperm, they can be inherited; if variants occur in other types of cells, they are not inherited. Certain variants may lead to cancer or other diseases. A variant is sometimes called a mutation.
variant of uncertain significance: (VAYR-ee-unt … un-SER-tin sig-NIH-fih-kunts); A change in a gene’s DNA sequence that has an unknown effect on a person’s health. There is usually not enough information about a variant of uncertain significance to know whether it increases a person’s risk of developing a disease, such as cancer. Also called unclassified variant, variant of unknown significance, and VUS.
variant of unknown significance: (VAYR-ee-unt … UN-none sig-NIH-fih-kunts); A change in a gene’s DNA sequence that has an unknown effect on a person’s health. There is usually not enough information about a variant of unknown significance to know whether it increases a person’s risk of developing a disease, such as cancer. Also called unclassified variant, variant of uncertain significance, and VUS.
varicella: (VAYR-ih-SEL-uh); A highly contagious disease marked by an itchy, blister-like rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (a type of herpesvirus). The virus is easily spread from person to person through contact with mucus, saliva, or fluid from the blisters of an infected person or through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The rash usually appears first on the face, chest, and back and then spreads to the rest of the body. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Varicella can sometimes cause serious health problems, especially in infants, teenagers, adults, pregnant women, and those who have a weakened immune system. Widespread use of the chickenpox vaccine since the early 1990s has prevented most cases of varicella in the United States. Also called chickenpox.
varicose vein: (VAYR-ih-kose vayn); A condition in which a vein, most often in the legs, becomes permanently enlarged, twisted, and painful. This may be caused by valves in the vein that don’t work properly or by weakness in the vein walls.
Varubi: (vuh-ROO-bee); A drug used with other drugs in adults to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Varubi blocks the action of a certain chemical in the central nervous system that may trigger nausea and vomiting. Blocking this chemical may lessen nausea and vomiting. Varubi is a type of antiemetic and a type of substance P/neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist. Also called rolapitant hydrochloride.
VAS: A tool used to help a person rate the intensity of certain sensations and feelings, such as pain. The visual analog scale for pain is a straight line with one end meaning no pain and the other end meaning the worst pain imaginable. A patient marks a point on the line that matches the amount of pain he or she feels. It may be used to help choose the right dose of pain medicine. Also called visual analog scale.
vas deferens: (VAS DEH-feh-RENZ); A coiled tube that carries the sperm out of the testes.
vascular endothelial growth factor: (VAS-kyoo-ler EN-doh-THEE-lee-ul grothe FAK-ter); A substance made by cells that stimulates new blood vessel formation. Also called VEGF.
vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor: (VAS-kyoo-ler EN-doh-THEE-lee-ul grothe FAK-ter reh-SEP-ter TY-ruh-seen KY-nays in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that blocks an enzyme needed to form blood vessels. Also called VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
vascular endothelial growth factor trap: (VAS-kyoo-ler EN-doh-THEE-lee-ul grothe FAK-ter ...); A drug used with other drugs to treat colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and has not gotten better with other chemotherapy. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factor trap blocks a protein called VEGF, which may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called VEGF Trap, Zaltrap, and ziv-aflibercept.
vascular endothelial growth factor-antisense oligonucleotide: (VAS-kyoo-ler EN-doh-THEE-lee-ul grothe FAK-ter-AN-tee-sents AH-lih-goh-NOO-klee-oh-tide); A substance that has been studied in the treatment of cancer. It binds to the RNA for a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that stimulates the growth of new blood vessels. Vascular endothelial growth factor-antisense oligonucleotide blocks the cell’s ability to make VEGF, which may kill tumors that need new blood vessels to grow. It is a type of antisense oligonucleotide and a type of gene expression inhibitor. Also called VEGF-AS.
vascular system: (VAS-kyoo-ler SIS-tem); A large network of blood vessels and lymph vessels that moves blood and lymph throughout the body. The blood vessels carry blood between the heart and the tissues and organs in the body. They also carry oxygen and other gases, nutrients, and hormones to the tissues and help them get rid of waste products. The lymph vessels carry lymph from tissues in different parts of the body to the bloodstream through a large vein near the heart. The vascular system helps control the amount of fluid in the body and helps protect it from infection and disease.
vascular tumor: (VAS-kyoo-ler TOO-mer); A type of tumor that forms from cells that make blood vessels or lymph vessels. Vascular tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer) and can occur anywhere in the body. They may form on the skin, in the tissues below the skin, and/or in an organ. There are many types of vascular tumors. The most common type of vascular tumor is hemangioma, which is a benign tumor that usually occurs in infants and goes away on its own.
vascularized autologous bone graft: (VAS-kyoo-luh-RIZED aw-TAH-luh-gus ...); Bone tissue that contains blood vessels, taken from one part of the body and used to replace diseased or injured bone in another part of the body of the same person.
vascularized lymph node transfer: (VAS-kyoo-luh-RIZED limf node TRANZ-fer); Surgery done to help relieve symptoms of lymphedema (swelling caused by a buildup of lymph in the tissues). Lymphedema can occur when lymph nodes or vessels become damaged or blocked. During a vascularized lymph node transfer, healthy tissue containing lymph nodes and vessels is taken from one part of the body, such as the neck, abdomen, or groin, and moved to the area with the damaged lymph nodes, usually in a person’s arm or leg. This may cause the lymph nodes and vessels in the healthy tissue to grow and help improve the flow of lymph in that area. Also called lymphovenous transplant and VLNT.
vasectomy: (va-SEK-toh-mee); An operation to cut or tie off the two tubes that carry sperm out of the testicles.
vasoactive: (VAY-zoh-AK-tiv); Describes something that causes the blood vessels to constrict (get narrower) or dilate (get wider).
vasoactive intestinal peptide: (VAY-zoh-AK-tiv in-TES-tih-nul PEP-tide); A hormone found in the pancreas, intestine, and central nervous system. It has many actions in the body, such as helping to control the secretion of water, salts, enzymes, and gastric acid during digestion. It also causes smooth muscles in the digestive tract, the heart, and the blood vessels to relax. It also has effects on the immune system and the central nervous system. Certain tumors in the pancreas make large amounts of vasoactive intestinal peptide. Also called VIP hormone.
vasomotor: (VAY-zoh-MOH-ter); Affecting the narrowing and widening of the blood vessels.
vasopressin: (VAY-zoh-PREH-sin); A hormone that helps blood vessels constrict and helps the kidneys control the amount of water and salt in the body. This helps control blood pressure and the amount of urine that is made. Vasopressin is made by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus and is secreted into the blood by the pituitary gland. Certain types of tumors may release high amounts of vasopressin, which can cause low levels of sodium in the blood and the body to retain water. Also called antidiuretic hormone and arginine vasopressin.
vatalanib: (va-TAH-la-nib); A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the families of drugs called protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors and VEGF receptor kinase inhibitors. Also called PTK787/ZK 222584.
VB4-845: A substance being studied in the treatment of certain types of head and neck cancer. VB4-845 is made by linking a monoclonal antibody fragment to a toxic protein that may kill cancer cells. It binds to EpCAM (a protein on the surface of epithelial cells and some types of cancer cells). Also called anti-EpCAM-Pseudomonas-exotoxin fusion protein and Proxinium.
Vectibix: (VEK-tih-bix); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat certain types of colorectal cancer that have spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients whose cancer has not already been treated or has gotten worse after treatment with other anticancer drugs. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vectibix binds to a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is found on some normal cells and some types of cancer cells. Blocking this protein may help keep cancer cells from growing. Vectibix is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called ABX-EGF and panitumumab.
vegan: (VEE-gun); A person who does not eat any foods that come from animals, including meat, eggs, and dairy products. A vegan diet is being studied in the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer and other medical conditions.
VEGF: A substance made by cells that stimulates new blood vessel formation. Also called vascular endothelial growth factor.
VEGF Trap: (... trap); A drug used with other drugs to treat colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and has not gotten better with other chemotherapy. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. VEGF Trap blocks a protein called VEGF, which may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called vascular endothelial growth factor trap, Zaltrap, and ziv-aflibercept.
VEGF-AS: A substance that has been studied in the treatment of cancer. It binds to the RNA for a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that stimulates the growth of new blood vessels. VEGF-AS blocks the cell’s ability to make VEGF, which may kill tumors that need new blood vessels to grow. It is a type of antisense oligonucleotide and a type of gene expression inhibitor. Also called vascular endothelial growth factor-antisense oligonucleotide.
VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor: (VEGFR TY-ruh-seen KY-nays in-HIH-bih-ter); A substance that blocks an enzyme needed to form blood vessels. Also called vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
VEGFR-2 inhibitor CT-322: (... in-HIH-bih-ter ...); A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. VEGFR-2 inhibitor CT-322 may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) inhibitor and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called Angiocept and CT-322.
vein: (vayn); A blood vessel that carries blood to the heart from tissues and organs in the body.
VeIP: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat advanced ovarian and testicular germ cell cancers. It includes the drugs vinblastine sulfate (Velban), ifosfamide (Ifex), and cisplatin (Platinol). Also called VeIP regimen.
VeIP regimen: (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat advanced ovarian and testicular germ cell cancers. It includes the drugs vinblastine sulfate (Velban), ifosfamide (Ifex), and cisplatin (Platinol). Also called VeIP.
velafermin: (veh-luh-FER-min); A substance that is being studied in the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis (sores in the mouth) in patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy. Velafermin belongs to the family of drugs called recombinant human fibroblast growth factors (rhFGF).
Velban: (VEL-bun); A drug that contains the active ingredient vinblastine sulfate, which is used to treat many types of cancer. Velban brand has been taken off the market and is no longer available.
Velcade: (VEL-kayd); A drug used to treat adults with multiple myeloma or mantle cell lymphoma. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Velcade blocks the action of enzymes called proteasomes, which may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. It is a type of proteasome inhibitor. Also called bortezomib and PS-341.
veliparib: (veh-lih-PAR-ib); A substance being studied in the treatment of breast cancers caused by mutations (changes) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It blocks an enzyme involved in many functions of the cell, including the repair of DNA damage. DNA damage may be caused by normal cell actions, UV light, some anticancer drugs, and radiation used to treat cancer. Veliparib may cause cancer cells to die. It is a type of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor. Also called ABT-888 and PARP-1 inhibitor ABT-888.
veltuzumab: (vel-TOO-zoo-mab); A substance being studied in the treatment of several types of lymphoma. It binds to the protein CD20, which is found on B cells (a type of immune system cell) and some types of lymphoma cells. This causes the immune system to kill the cancer cells. Veltuzumab is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called hA20, HCD20, and IMMU-106.
vemurafenib: (VEH-myoo-RA-feh-nib); A drug used to treat Erdheim-Chester disease (a very rare type of histiocytosis) and advanced melanoma that have a certain mutation (change) in the BRAF gene. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vemurafenib 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 BRAF (V600E) kinase inhibitor RO5185426, PLX4032, RG7204, and Zelboraf.
vena cava: (VEE-nuh KAY-vuh); A large vein that carries blood to the heart from other areas of the body. The vena cava has two parts: the superior vena cava and the inferior vena cava. The superior vena cava carries blood from the head, neck, arms, and chest. The inferior vena cava carries blood from the legs, feet, and organs in the abdomen and pelvis. The vena cava is the largest vein in the body.
Venclexta: (ven-KLEK-stuh); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat certain adults with acute myeloid leukemia that is newly diagnosed and adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or small lymphocytic lymphoma. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Venclexta binds to a protein called BCL2, which is found on some types of cancer cells. Blocking this protein may help kill cancer cells and may make them more sensitive to anticancer drugs. Venclexta is a type of BCL2 inhibitor. Also called venetoclax.
venetoclax: (veh-NEH-toh-klax); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat certain adults with acute myeloid leukemia that is newly diagnosed and adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or small lymphocytic lymphoma. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Venetoclax binds to a protein called BCL2, which is found on some types of cancer cells. Blocking this protein may help kill cancer cells and may make them more sensitive to anticancer drugs. Venetoclax is a type of BCL2 inhibitor. Also called Venclexta.
venipuncture: (VEE-nih-PUNK-cher); A procedure in which a needle is used to take blood from a vein, usually for laboratory testing. Venipuncture may also be done to remove extra red blood cells from the blood, to treat certain blood disorders. Also called blood draw and phlebotomy.
venlafaxine: (ven-luh-FAK-seen); A drug used to treat depression and certain anxiety disorders. It may also be used to treat hot flashes in women who are in menopause or are being treated for breast cancer. Venlafaxine increases the levels of the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve mood. It is a type of antidepressant and a type of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Also called Effexor.
venography: (veh-NAH-gruh-fee); A procedure in which an x-ray of the veins is taken after a special dye is injected into the bone marrow or veins.
venous catheter: (VEE-nus KA-theh-ter); A thin, flexible tube that is inserted into a large vein, usually in the arm, chest, or leg. It is used to give intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, and chemotherapy and other drugs, and for taking blood samples. It avoids the need for repeated needle sticks.
venous sampling: (VEE-nus...); A procedure in which a sample of blood is taken from a certain vein and checked for specific substances released by nearby organs and tissues. A higher than normal amount of a substance can be a sign of disease in the organ or tissue that makes it.
ventilator: (VEN-tih-LAY-ter); In medicine, a machine used to help a patient breathe. Also called respirator.
ventricle: (VEN-trih-kul); A fluid-filled cavity in the heart or brain.
Versed: (ver-SED); A drug used to treat anxiety and tension and to relax muscles. Versed is also being studied in the treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by some cancer treatments. It is a type of benzodiazepine. Also called midazolam hydrochloride.
vertebral column: (ver-TEE-brul KAH-lum); The bones, muscles, tendons, and other tissues that reach from the base of the skull to the tailbone. The vertebral column encloses the spinal cord and the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. Also called backbone, spinal column, and spine.
vertebroplasty: (VER-teh-broh-PLAS-tee); A procedure used to repair a bone in the spine that has a break caused by cancer, osteoporosis (a decrease in bone mass and density), or trauma. Bone cement is injected into the broken bone to make it stronger.
verum acupuncture: (VEER-um AK-yoo-PUNK-cher); Refers to traditional acupuncture, which is the technique of inserting thin needles through the skin to certain depths and at certain points on the body to control pain and other symptoms. The term verum acupuncture may be used when comparing traditional acupuncture to sham (placebo) acupuncture. In sham acupuncture, needles do not go as deep and are not used at the same points on the body.
Verzenio: (ver-ZEH-nee-oh); A drug used alone or with other drugs to treat adults with certain types of hormone-receptor positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Verzenio blocks certain proteins, which may help keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. Also called abemaciclib.
Vesanoid: (VEH-suh-noyd); An oral preparation of tretinoin that is used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia, usually together with other drugs. It is being studied in the treatment and prevention of other types of cancer. Tretinoin is a form of vitamin A.
vesicant extravasation: (VEH-sih-kunt ek-STRA-vuh-SAY-shun); The leakage of certain drugs called vesicants out of a vein into the tissue around it. Vesicants cause blistering and other tissue injury that may be severe and can lead to tissue necrosis (tissue death).
vesicle: (VEH-sih-kul); A small sac formed by a membrane and filled with liquid. Vesicles inside cells move substances into or out of the cell. Vesicles made in the laboratory can be used to carry drugs to cells in the body.
vestibular schwannoma: (veh-STIH-byoo-ler shwah-NOH-muh); A benign (not cancer) tumor that forms on the nerves in the inner ear and can affect hearing and balance. Vestibular schwannomas usually grow slowly and affect one side of the body. Common signs and symptoms include hearing loss or ringing in one ear, loss of balance, dizziness, and numbness and paralysis in the face. Sometimes these tumors may grow large and press against the facial nerve or other nearby nerves. Rarely, they may press against certain parts of the brain, which could be life threatening. Vestibular schwannomas that affect the nerves in both ears are often caused by a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis type 2. Vestibular schwannomas usually occur in people aged 30 to 60 years. Also called acoustic neuroma.
VHL disease: (... dih-ZEEZ); A rare, inherited disorder that causes tumors and cysts to grow in certain parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, eyes, inner ear, adrenal glands, pancreas, kidney, and reproductive tract. The tumors are usually benign (not cancer), but some may be malignant (cancer). Patients with VHL disease have an increased risk of certain types of cancer, especially kidney cancer and pancreatic cancer. The signs and symptoms of VHL disease usually do not appear until young adulthood. It is caused by a mutation (change) in the VHL gene. Also called VHL syndrome, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome.
VHL gene: (… jeen); A gene that makes a protein that helps control cell growth, cell division, and other important cell functions. Mutated (changed) forms of the VHL gene may increase the growth of cells, including abnormal cells. This mutated gene has been found in nearly all patients with an inherited condition called VHL syndrome. VHL syndrome can cause kidney cancer and tumors of the brain, spinal cord, eye, ear, adrenal glands, pancreas, or other parts of the body. The VHL gene is a type of tumor suppressor gene. Also called von Hippel-Lindau gene.
VHL syndrome: (… SIN-drome); A rare, inherited disorder that causes tumors and cysts to grow in certain parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, eyes, inner ear, adrenal glands, pancreas, kidney, and reproductive tract. The tumors are usually benign (not cancer), but some may be malignant (cancer). Patients with VHL syndrome have an increased risk of certain types of cancer, especially kidney cancer and pancreatic cancer. The signs and symptoms of VHL syndrome usually do not appear until young adulthood. It is caused by a mutation (change) in the VHL gene. Also called VHL disease, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome.
Viagra: (vy-A-gruh); A drug used to treat erectile dysfunction. Viagra relaxes the smooth muscle of the penis to allow increased blood flow and erection. It is a type of phosphodiesterase inhibitor. Also called sildenafil.
vibro-acoustography imaging: (VY-broh-uh-koos-TAH-gruh-fee IH-muh-jing); A technique being studied in the diagnosis of breast cancer and other types of cancer. Vibro-acoustography imaging uses ultrasound (high-energy sound waves) to cause tissues to vibrate. The sound made by the vibrating tissues is picked up by a microphone and is used to make an image of the object on a computer. Cancer tissue can be seen because it is denser and vibrates at a different rate than normal tissue.
Vidaza: (vih-DAY-zuh); A drug that contains the active ingredient azacitidine and is used to treat adults with certain types of myelodysplastic syndromes and children aged 1 month and older with newly diagnosed juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vidaza stops cells from making DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimetabolite.
video-assisted resection: (VIH-dee-oh-uh-SIS-ted ree-SEK-shun); Surgery that is aided by the use of a video camera that projects and enlarges the image on a television screen. Also called video-assisted surgery.
video-assisted surgery: (VIH-dee-oh-uh-SIS-ted SER-juh-ree); Surgery that is aided by the use of a video camera that projects and enlarges the image on a television screen. Also called video-assisted resection.
villous adenoma: (VIH-lus A-deh-NOH-muh); A type of polyp that grows in the colon and other places in the gastrointestinal tract and sometimes in other parts of the body. These adenomas may become malignant (cancer).
villus: (VIH-lus); A tiny hair-like projection, often on the surface of mucous membranes. The plural is villi.
vimseltinib dihydrate: (vim-SEL-tih-nib dy-HY-drayt); A drug used to treat adults with tenosynovial giant cell tumor, a rare, usually benign (not cancer) tumor that affects the joints. It is used when surgery may make the symptoms worse or cause severe problems. It is also being studied in the treatment of other conditions related to cancer. Vimseltinib dihydrate blocks certain proteins, which may help keep tumor cells from growing and spreading. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Also called Romvimza.
VIN: Abnormal cells are found on the surface of the vulvar skin. These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into nearby tissue. Also called vulvar carcinoma in situ and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia.
vinblastine sulfate: (vin-BLAS-teen SUL-fayt); A drug used to treat certain types of breast cancer, choriocarcinoma (a type of gestational trophoblastic tumor), Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Kaposi sarcoma, mycosis fungoides (a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma), and testicular cancer. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vinblastine sulfate stops cancer cells from growing and dividing and may kill them. It is a type of vinca alkaloid. The brand name Velban has been taken off the market and is no longer available.
vinca alkaloid: (VIN-kuh AL-kuh-LOYD); A type of drug that blocks cell growth by stopping mitosis (cell division). Vinca alkaloids interfere with microtubules (cellular structures that help move chromosomes during mitosis). They are used to treat cancer. A vinca alkaloid is a type of mitotic inhibitor and a type of antimicrotubule agent.
vincristine sulfate: (vin-KRIS-teen SUL-fayt); A drug used to treat acute leukemia and is sometimes used with other drugs to treat Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, and Wilms tumor. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vincristine sulfate stops cancer cells from growing and dividing and may kill them. It is a type of vinca alkaloid. Vincristine is the active ingredient of vincristine sulfate. The brand name Oncovin has been taken off the market and is no longer available.
vindesine: (VIN-deh-seen); An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of plant drugs called vinca alkaloids.
vinflunine: (VIN-floo-neen); A substance being studied in the treatment of bladder cancer, lung cancer, and other types of cancer. Also called Javlor.
vinorelbine tartrate: (vih-NOR-el-been TAR-trayt); A drug used alone or with cisplatin to treat non-small cell lung cancer that is locally advanced or has spread to other parts of the body. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vinorelbine tartrate stops cancer cells from growing and dividing and may kill them. It is a type of vinca alkaloid.
vinyl chloride: (VY-nil KLOR-ide); A substance used to make plastics. Exposure to vinyl chloride may increase the risk of developing liver, brain, and lung cancers; lymphoma; and leukemia.
Vioxx: (VY-ox); A drug that was being used for pain relief and was being studied for its ability to prevent cancer and to prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Vioxx was taken off the market in the U.S. because of safety concerns. Also called rofecoxib.
VIP: An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat advanced testicular cancer. It is often used in patients who cannot receive bleomycin. It includes the drugs etoposide (VePesid), ifosfamide, and cisplatin (Platinol). Also called VIP regimen.
VIP hormone: (... HOR-mone); A hormone found in the pancreas, intestine, and central nervous system. It has many actions in the body, such as helping to control the secretion of water, salts, enzymes, and gastric acid during digestion. It also causes smooth muscles in the digestive tract, the heart, and the blood vessels to relax. It also has effects on the immune system and the central nervous system. Certain tumors in the pancreas make large amounts of VIP hormone. Also called vasoactive intestinal peptide.
VIP regimen: (… REH-jih-men); An abbreviation for a chemotherapy combination used to treat advanced testicular cancer. It is often used in patients who cannot receive bleomycin. It includes the drugs etoposide (VePesid), ifosfamide, and cisplatin (Platinol). Also called VIP.
VIP-producing neuroendocrine tumor: (… proh-DOO-sing NOOR-oh-EN-doh-krin TOO-mer); A very rare tumor that usually forms in the islet cells of the pancreas and makes the hormone vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). VIP helps control the secretion of water, salts, enzymes, and gastric acid during digestion and relaxes certain muscles in the digestive tract. Signs and symptoms of VIP-producing neuroendocrine tumor include chronic watery diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal pain, nausea, flushing or redness in the face, weight loss, and very low levels of potassium in the blood. Most VIP-producing neuroendocrine tumors are cancer and have often spread to other parts of the body when they are found. VIP-producing neuroendocrine tumor is a type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Also called VIP-secreting tumor and VIPoma.
VIP-secreting tumor: (… seh-KREE-ting TOO-mer); A very rare tumor that usually forms in the islet cells of the pancreas and makes the hormone vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). VIP helps control the secretion of water, salts, enzymes, and gastric acid during digestion and relaxes certain muscles in the digestive tract. Signs and symptoms of VIP-secreting tumor include chronic watery diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal pain, nausea, flushing or redness in the face, weight loss, and very low levels of potassium in the blood. Most VIP-secreting tumors are cancer and have often spread to other parts of the body when they are found. VIP-secreting tumor is a type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Also called VIP-producing neuroendocrine tumor and VIPoma.
VIPoma: (…OH-muh); A very rare tumor that usually forms in the islet cells of the pancreas and makes the hormone vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). VIP helps control the secretion of water, salts, enzymes, and gastric acid during digestion and relaxes certain muscles in the digestive tract. Signs and symptoms of VIPoma include chronic watery diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal pain, nausea, flushing or redness in the face, weight loss, and very low levels of potassium in the blood. Most VIPomas are cancer and have often spread to other parts of the body when they are found. VIPoma is a type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Also called VIP-producing neuroendocrine tumor and VIP-secreting tumor.
viral: (VY-rul); Having to do with a virus.
viral oncolysate: (VY-rul on-KAH-lih-sayt); An extract made from cancer cells that are infected with a strain of virus that can lyse (break down) cancer cells. The extract contains both cancer cell proteins and virus proteins. Viral oncolysates are being studied as cancer vaccines.
viral therapy: (VY-rul THAYR-uh-pee); Treatment using a virus that has been changed in the laboratory to find and destroy cancer cells without harming healthy cells. It is a type of targeted therapy. Also called oncolytic virotherapy, oncolytic virus therapy, and virotherapy.
viral vector: (VY-rul VEK-ter); A form of a virus used to deliver genetic material into a cell. Before the virus is used in this way, it is changed in the laboratory so that it cannot cause disease in people. Viral vectors may be used to carry genes that can change cancer cells back to normal cells or to replace a gene that isn’t working correctly with a working copy of the gene. In cancer vaccines, viral vectors can be used to deliver specific cancer-related antigens into the body. The antigens may stimulate the immune system to recognize and kill the cancer cells. Viral vectors may also be used in vaccines to help prevent certain types of viral infections. Examples of viral vectors are adenoviruses, adeno-associated viruses, retroviruses, lentiviruses, and herpes simplex viruses.
virotherapy: (VY-roh-THAYR-uh-pee); Treatment using a virus that has been changed in the laboratory to find and destroy cancer cells without harming healthy cells. It is a type of targeted therapy. Also called oncolytic virotherapy, oncolytic virus therapy, and viral therapy.
virtual colonoscopy: (VER-chuh-wul KOH-luh-NOS-koh-pee); A method to examine the inside of the colon by taking a series of x-rays. A computer is used to make 2-dimensional (2-D) and 3-D pictures of the colon from these x-rays. The pictures can be saved, changed to give better viewing angles, and reviewed after the procedure, even years later. Also called computed tomographic colonography, computed tomography colonography, and CT colonography.
virulence: (VEER-uh-lents); The ability of a microorganism to cause damage to its host.
virulent: (VEER-uh-lent); Refers to the ability of a virus or a bacterium to cause damage to its host.
Virulizin: (VEER-yoo-LY-zin); A substance that activates some types of immune system cells, and is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called biological therapy agents.
virus: (VY-rus); In medicine, a very simple microorganism that infects cells and may cause disease. Because viruses can multiply only inside infected cells, they are not considered to be alive.
virus replication cycle: (VY-rus reh-plih-KAY-shun...); The reproduction cycle of viruses. A replication cycle begins with the infection of a host cell and ends with the release of mature progeny virus particles.
virus-like particle: (VY-rus-like PAR-tih-kul); A small particle that contains certain proteins from the outer coat of a virus. Virus-like particles do not contain any genetic material from the virus and cannot cause an infection. They are used to make vaccines that can help the body’s immune system kill microorganisms and certain cancer cells. Virus-like particles were used to make vaccines that prevent cervical cancer caused by human papilloma viruses (HPV). They were also used to make vaccines that prevent liver cancer caused by infection with the hepatitis B virus.
virus-neutralizing antibody: (VY-rus-NOO-truh-LY-zing AN-tee-BAH-dee); An antibody that binds to a virus and interferes with its ability to infect a cell.
viscera: (VIH-seh-ruh); The soft internal organs of the body, including the lungs, the heart, and the organs of the digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems.
visceral: (VIH-seh-rul); Having to do with the viscera, which are the soft internal organs of the body, including the lungs, the heart, and the organs of the digestive, excretory, reproductive, and circulatory systems.
visceral peritoneum: (VIH-seh-rul PAYR-ih-toh-NEE-um); The layers of tissue that cover the outer surface of most organs in the abdomen, including the intestines.
viscotoxin: (VIS-koh-TOK-sin); A member of a group of small proteins produced by mistletoe plants that are able to kill cells and may stimulate the immune system.
visilizumab: (vih-sih-LIZ-yoo-mab); A substance being studied in the treatment of an immune system reaction called graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), which may occur after a donor stem cell transplant. It is also being studied in the treatment of some autoimmune diseases. Visilizumab binds to a protein called CD3, which is found on some T cells (a type of white blood cell). This may help suppress the body’s immune response. Visilizumab is a type of monoclonal antibody.
vismodegib: (VIS-moh-DEH-gib); A drug used to treat basal cell carcinoma that has spread to other parts of the body, has come back after surgery, or that cannot be treated with surgery or radiation. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vismodegib blocks a type of protein involved in tissue growth and repair and may block the growth of cancer cells. It is a type of Hedgehog signaling pathway antagonist. Also called Erivedge and GDC-0449.
Vistogard: (VIS-toh-gard); A drug used in the emergency treatment of adults and children who receive too much fluorouracil or capecitabine or who have heart or central nervous system toxicity or other serious side effects that occur within 4 days of ending treatment with these drugs. Vistogard may help protect healthy cells from some of the side effects caused by certain anticancer drugs. It is a type of chemoprotective agent and a type of pyrimidine analog. Also called PN401, triacetyluridine, and uridine triacetate.
visual analog scale: (VIH-zhoo-ul A-nuh-log skayl); A tool used to help a person rate the intensity of certain sensations and feelings, such as pain. The visual analog scale for pain is a straight line with one end meaning no pain and the other end meaning the worst pain imaginable. A patient marks a point on the line that matches the amount of pain he or she feels. It may be used to help choose the right dose of pain medicine. Also called VAS.
visual pathway glioma: (VIH-zhoo-ul ... glee-OH-muh); A rare, slow-growing tumor that usually forms in the optic nerve, optic chiasm, or optic tract. These are parts of the nervous system that carry messages from the eye to the brain. Also called optic pathway glioma.
vital: (VY-tul); Necessary to maintain life. Breathing is a vital function.
vitality: (vy-TA-lih-tee); A term used to describe a person’s ability to live, grow, and develop. Vitality also refers to having energy and being vigorous and active. Being ill or being treated for a disease, such as cancer, may lessen a person’s vitality.
vitamin: (VY-tuh-min); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Sources of vitamins are plant and animal food products and dietary supplements. Some vitamins are made in the human body from food products. Vitamins are either fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) or water-soluble (can dissolve in water). Excess fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body’s fatty tissue, but excess water-soluble vitamins are removed in the urine. Examples are vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
vitamin A: (VY-tuh-min …); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin A helps in vision, bone growth, reproduction, growth of epithelium (cells that line the internal and external surfaces of the body), and fighting infections. It is fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils). Vitamin A is found in liver, egg yolks, and whole milk dairy products from animals and in fish oils. It can also be made in the body from a substance found in some fruits and vegetables, such as cantaloupes, carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes. Vitamin A is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. Also called retinol.
vitamin A acid: (VY-tuh-min...A-sid); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin A acid is made in the body from vitamin A and helps cells to grow and develop, especially in the embryo. A form of vitamin A acid made in the laboratory is put on the skin to treat conditions such as acne and is taken by mouth to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (a fast-growing cancer in which there are too many immature blood-forming cells in the blood and bone marrow). Vitamin A acid is being studied in the prevention and treatment of other types of cancer. Also called all-trans retinoic acid, ATRA, retinoic acid, and tretinoin.
vitamin B complex: (VY-tuh-min ... KOM-plex); A compound containing several or all of a group of vitamins and nutrients that the body needs in very small amounts to function and stay healthy. The B vitamins in the vitamin B complex include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin (nicotinic acid), niacinamide (nicotinamide), the vitamin B6 group (including pyridoxine, pyridoxal, pyridoxamine), biotin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, and vitamin B12. Aminobenzoic acid, inositol, and choline are sometimes included as part of the vitamin B complex. The vitamin B complex is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and is found in yeast, seeds, eggs, liver, meat, and vegetables. Members of the vitamin B complex are being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer.
vitamin B1: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin B1 helps some enzymes work properly, helps break down sugars in the diet, and keeps nerves and the heart healthy. It is found in pork, organ meats, peas, beans, nuts, and whole grains. Vitamin B1 is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in daily. Not enough vitamin B1 can cause a disease called beriberi (a condition marked by heart, nerve, and digestive disorders). Too much vitamin B1 may help cancer cells grow faster. Also called thiamine.
vitamin B12: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin B12 helps make red blood cells, DNA, RNA, energy, and tissues, and keeps nerve cells healthy. It is found in liver, meat, eggs, poultry, shellfish, milk, and milk products. Vitamin B12 is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Not enough vitamin B12 can cause certain types of anemia (a condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal) and neurologic disorders. It is being studied with folate in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. Also called cobalamin and cyanocobalamin.
vitamin B2: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin B2 helps make red blood cells, helps some enzymes work properly, and keeps skin, nails, and hair healthy. It is found in milk, eggs, malted barley, organ meats, yeast, and leafy vegetables. Vitamin B2 is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Not enough vitamin B2 can cause anemia (a low number of red blood cells), mouth sores, and skin problems. Amounts of vitamin B2 may be higher in the blood of patients with some types of cancer. Also called riboflavin.
vitamin B3: (VY-tuh-min …); A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin B3 helps some enzymes work properly and helps skin, nerves, and the digestive tract stay healthy. Vitamin B3 is found in many plant and animal products. It is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Not enough vitamin B3 can cause a disease called pellagra (a condition marked by skin, nerve, and digestive disorders). A form of vitamin B3 is being studied in the prevention of skin and other types of cancer. Vitamin B3 may help to lower blood cholesterol. Also called niacin and nicotinic acid.
vitamin B5: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin B5 helps some enzymes use foods and make many substances used in the body and protects cells against damage from peroxides. It is found in almost all plant and animal foods. Vitamin B5 is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Also called pantothenic acid.
vitamin B6: (VY-tuh-min…); A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin B6 helps keep nerves and skin healthy, fight infections, keep blood sugar levels normal, produce red blood cells, and some enzymes work properly. Vitamin B6 is a group of related compounds (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine) found in cereals, beans, peas, nuts, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and bananas. It is water-soluble (can dissolve in water). Not enough vitamin B6 can cause mouth and tongue sores and nervous disorders. Vitamin B6 is being studied in the prevention of hand-foot syndrome (a disorder caused by certain anticancer drugs and marked by pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, or redness of the hands or feet). Also called pyridoxine.
vitamin C: (VY-tuh-min…); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin C helps fight infections, heal wounds, and keep tissues healthy. It is an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage caused by free radicals (highly reactive chemicals). Vitamin C is found in all fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, strawberries, cantaloupe, green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, leafy greens, and potatoes. It is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Vitamin C is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. Also called ascorbic acid.
vitamin D: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin D helps the body use calcium and phosphorus to make strong bones and teeth. It is fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) and is found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and dairy products. Skin exposed to sunshine can also make vitamin D. Not enough vitamin D can cause a bone disease called rickets. It is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. Also called cholecalciferol.
vitamin D2: (VY-tuh-min …); A form of vitamin D that helps the body use calcium and phosphorus to make strong bones and teeth. It is fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) and is found in plants and yeast. It can be made in the body from another form of vitamin D when the body is exposed to the sun. Vitamin D2 is also made in the laboratory. It is used to prevent and to treat vitamin D deficiency. It is a type of dietary supplement. Also called ergocalciferol.
vitamin E: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to stay healthy and work the way it should. It is fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) and is found in seeds, nuts, leafy green vegetables, and vegetable oils. Vitamin E boosts the immune system and helps keep blood clots from forming. It also helps prevent cell damage caused by free radicals (highly reactive chemicals). Vitamin E is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. It is a type of antioxidant. Also called alpha-tocopherol.
vitamin H: (VY-tuh-min …); A nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin H helps some enzymes break down substances in the body for energy and helps tissues develop. It is found in yeast, whole milk, egg yolks, and organ meats. Vitamin H is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Not enough vitamin H can cause skin, nerve, and eye disorders. Vitamin H is present in larger amounts in some cancer tissue than in normal tissue. Attaching vitamin H to substances used to treat some types of cancer helps them find cancer cells. Also called biotin.
vitamin K: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin K helps to form blood clots (a mass that forms when blood platelets, proteins, and cells stick together) and maintain strong bones. It is fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) and is found in green leafy vegetables, broccoli, liver, and vegetable oils. Vitamin K is also made by bacteria that live in the large intestine. Not enough vitamin K can lead to bleeding and bruising. It is a type of phylloquinone.
vitamin Q10: (VY-tuh-min ...); A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin Q10 helps mitochondria (small structures in the cell) make energy. It is an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage caused by free radicals (highly reactive chemicals). Vitamin Q10 is fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) and is found in fatty fish, beef, soybeans, peanuts, and spinach. It is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer and heart disease and in the relief of side effects caused by some cancer treatments. Also called coenzyme Q10, CoQ10, Q10, and ubiquinone.
vitespen: (vy-TEH-spen); A vaccine made from a patient’s tumor cells that may help the body’s immune system kill cancer cells. This vaccine is used to treat kidney cancer, a type of brain cancer called glioma, and metastatic melanoma (a type of skin cancer that has spread). It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Also called gp96 heat shock protein-peptide complex vaccine, gp96 HSP-peptide complex, and Oncophage.
Vitex: (VY-tex); An extract made from the fruit of the chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) found in parts of Asia and Europe. It is claimed to treat infertility and to lessen symptoms that may occur before or during a woman’s menstrual period, such as headaches and irregular bleeding. Vitex may affect levels of reproductive hormones in the blood. It is a type of phytomedicine. Also called chaste tree berry and monk’s pepper.
Vitrakvi: (vih-TRAK-vee); A drug used to treat adults and children with certain types of solid tumors that have spread or cannot be removed by surgery and have the NTRK gene fusion. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vitrakvi blocks the TRK protein, which may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Also called larotrectinib sulfate, LOXO-101, and Trk inhibitor LOXO-101.
vitreous humor: (VIH-tree-us HYOO-mer); The clear jelly-like substance that fills the inside of the eyeball. As a person ages, the vitreous humor becomes more liquid.
Vivitrol: (VIH-vih-trol); A drug that blocks the action of opiates (drugs used to treat pain). It may be used in the treatment of intravenous opiate addiction or alcohol dependence. Vivitrol is also being studied in the treatment of breast cancer. It may block the effects of the hormone estrogen, which causes some breast cancer cells to grow, or block the blood flow to tumors. It is a type of opiate antagonist. Also called naltrexone hydrochloride and ReVia.
Vizimpro: (vih-ZIM-proh); 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. Vizimpro 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 dacomitinib and PF-00299804.
VLNT: Surgery done to help relieve symptoms of lymphedema (swelling caused by a buildup of lymph in the tissues). Lymphedema can occur when lymph nodes or vessels become damaged or blocked. During a VLNT, healthy tissue containing lymph nodes and vessels is taken from one part of the body, such as the neck, abdomen, or groin, and moved to the area with the damaged lymph nodes, usually in a person’s arm or leg. This may cause the lymph nodes and vessels in the healthy tissue to grow and help improve the flow of lymph in that area. Also called lymphovenous transplant and vascularized lymph node transfer.
VNP20009: A genetically modified Salmonella bacterium that is injected into the tumor. It is being studied for its ability to shrink solid tumors.
VNP40101M: A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.
vocal cord: (VOH-kul kord); One of two small bands of muscle within the larynx that vibrates to produce the voice.
vocational rehabilitation counselor: (voh-KAY-shuh-nul REE-huh-BIH-lih-TAY-shun KOWN-seh-ler); A person who has special training to help people with a disability find a job or career. A vocational rehabilitation counselor evaluates a person’s education, training, skills, interests, and financial needs to help him or her make employment decisions. A vocational rehabilitation counselor also monitors job performance and provides counseling, education, and resources for job-related issues and access to special accommodations in the workplace. Also called vocational therapist.
vocational therapist: (voh-KAY-shuh-nul THAYR-uh-pist); A person who has special training to help people with a disability find a job or career. A vocational therapist evaluates a person’s education, training, skills, interests, and financial needs to help him or her make employment decisions. A vocational therapist also monitors job performance and provides counseling, education, and resources for job-related issues and access to special accommodations in the workplace. Also called vocational rehabilitation counselor.
voice box: (voys …); The area of the throat containing the vocal cords and used for breathing, swallowing, and talking. Also called larynx.
volociximab: (voh-loh-SIK-sih-mab); A monoclonal antibody that is being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory and can locate and bind to substances in the body, including cancer cells. Volociximab binds to a protein that is found on cells that line some tumor blood vessels. It is a type of angiogenesis inhibitor. Also called M200.
Voltaren: (vol-TAYR-en); 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 diclofenac sodium.
Voltaren gel: (vol-TAYR-en 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 diclofenac sodium gel.
vomiting: (VAH-mih-ting); The forceful ejection of some or all of the contents of the stomach through the mouth. Vomiting may be caused by many things, including certain smells, irritation to the stomach, infections, stress, pain, motion sickness, migraines, certain medicines, some diseases or conditions, and brain injury or concussion. It can also be a symptom of some cancers and a side effect of certain cancer treatments. Also called emesis.
von Hippel-Lindau disease: (von HIH-pul-LIN-dow dih-ZEEZ); A rare, inherited disorder that causes tumors and cysts to grow in certain parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, eyes, inner ear, adrenal glands, pancreas, kidney, and reproductive tract. The tumors are usually benign (not cancer), but some may be malignant (cancer). Patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease have an increased risk of certain types of cancer, especially kidney cancer and pancreatic cancer. The signs and symptoms of von Hippel-Lindau disease usually do not appear until young adulthood. It is caused by a mutation (change) in the VHL gene. Also called VHL disease, VHL syndrome, and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome.
von Hippel-Lindau gene: (von HIH-pul-LIN-dow jeen); A gene that makes a protein that helps control cell growth, cell division, and other important cell functions. Mutated (changed) forms of the von Hippel-Lindau gene may increase the growth of cells, including abnormal cells. This mutated gene has been found in nearly all patients with an inherited condition called VHL syndrome. VHL syndrome can cause kidney cancer and tumors of the brain, spinal cord, eye, ear, adrenal glands, pancreas, or other parts of the body. The von Hippel-Lindau gene is a type of tumor suppressor gene. Also called VHL gene.
von Hippel-Lindau syndrome: (von HIH-pul-LIN-dow SIN-drome); A rare, inherited disorder that causes tumors and cysts to grow in certain parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, eyes, inner ear, adrenal glands, pancreas, kidney, and reproductive tract. The tumors are usually benign (not cancer), but some may be malignant (cancer). Patients with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome have an increased risk of certain types of cancer, especially kidney cancer and pancreatic cancer. The signs and symptoms of von Hippel-Lindau syndrome usually do not appear until young adulthood. It is caused by a mutation (change) in the VHL gene. Also called VHL disease, VHL syndrome, and von Hippel-Lindau disease.
Vonjo: (VON-joh); A drug used to treat adults with intermediate-risk or high-risk myelofibrosis (MF), including primary MF, post-polycythemia vera MF, and post-essential thrombocythemia MF. It is used in patients who have a very low blood platelet count. It is also being studied in the treatment of other conditions and some types of cancer. Vonjo blocks JAK2 and other proteins, which may help keep abnormal blood cells or cancer cells from growing. It is a type of kinase inhibitor. Also called pacritinib citrate.
Voranigo: (voh-rah-NEE-goh); A drug used to treat adults and children aged 12 years and older with grade 2 astrocytoma or oligodendroglioma (types of brain tumors) that has an abnormal IDH1 or IDH2 gene. It is used in patients who had a biopsy or surgery to remove the tumor. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Voranigo blocks the proteins made by the mutated IDH1 and IDH2 genes, which may help keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of enzyme inhibitor and a type of targeted therapy. Also called vorasidenib citrate.
vorasidenib citrate: (vor-uh-SIH-deh-nib SIH-trayt); A drug used to treat adults and children aged 12 years and older with grade 2 astrocytoma or oligodendroglioma (types of brain tumors) that has an abnormal IDH1 or IDH2 gene. It is used in patients who had a biopsy or surgery to remove the tumor. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vorasidenib citrate blocks the proteins made by the mutated IDH1 and IDH2 genes, which may help keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of enzyme inhibitor and a type of targeted therapy. Also called Voranigo.
Voraxaze: (vor-AK-sayz); A drug used to treat toxic levels of the anticancer drug methotrexate in the blood of adults and children with kidney problems. Voraxaze is a bacterial enzyme that helps break down and remove methotrexate from the body. It may also help certain drugs kill cancer cells. Voraxaze is a type of chemoprotective agent and a type of prodrug activator. Also called carboxypeptidase-G2 and glucarpidase.
voriconazole: (VOR-ih-KAH-nuh-zole); A drug that treats infections caused by fungi.
vorinostat: (vor-IN-oh-stat); A drug used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma that came back, got worse, or did not get better during or after treatment with two systemic therapies. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vorinostat blocks certain enzymes needed for cell division and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of histone deacetylase inhibitor. Also called SAHA, suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, and Zolinza.
vorozole: (VOR-uh-zole); A hormone therapy drug used to decrease the production of estrogen.
Votrient: (VOH-tree-ent); A drug used to treat adults with advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer) or advanced soft tissue sarcoma that has already been treated with other anticancer drugs. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Votrient blocks certain proteins, which may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Also called GW786034 and pazopanib hydrochloride.
VP-16: The active ingredient in a drug used with other drugs to treat small cell lung cancer and certain types of testicular cancer. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. VP-16 blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of podophyllotoxin derivative and a type of topoisomerase inhibitor. Also called etoposide.
vulva: (VUL-vuh); The external female genital organs. The vulva includes the inner and outer lips of the vagina, the clitoris, the opening of the vagina and its glands, the opening of the urethra, and the mons pubis (the rounded area in front of the pubic bones that becomes covered with hair at puberty).
vulvar cancer: (VUL-ver KAN-ser); Cancer of the vulva (the external female genital organs, including the clitoris, vaginal lips, and the opening to the vagina).
vulvar carcinoma in situ: (VUL-ver KAR-sih-NOH-muh in SY-too); Abnormal cells are found on the surface of the vulvar skin. These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into nearby tissue. Also called VIN and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia.
vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia: (VUL-ver IN-truh-eh-pih-THEE-lee-ul NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh); Abnormal cells are found on the surface of the vulvar skin. These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into nearby tissue. Also called VIN and vulvar carcinoma in situ.
VUS: A change in a gene’s DNA sequence that has an unknown effect on a person’s health. There is usually not enough information about a VUS to know whether it increases a person’s risk of developing a disease, such as cancer. Also called unclassified variant, variant of uncertain significance, and variant of unknown significance.
VX 853: A drug being studied to make cancer cells less resistant to the effects of chemotherapy.
VX-710: A drug being studied to make cancer cells less resistant to the effects of chemotherapy.
Vyloy: (VY-loy); A drug used with chemotherapy containing fluoropyrimidine and platinum to treat adults with gastric (stomach) cancer or gastroesophageal junction cancer that has the CLDN18.2 protein, is HER2-negative, and has spread to other parts of the body or cannot be removed by surgery. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Vyloy binds to CLDN18.2, which is found on the surface of some cancer cells. This may help keep cancer cells from growing and may kill them. It is a type of monoclonal antibody. Also called zolbetuximab.
Vyxeos: (VIK-see-os); 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. Vyxeos 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. Vyxeos is a type of anthracycline antibiotic, a type of topoisomerase inhibitor, and a type of antimetabolite. Also called daunorubicin hydrochloride and cytarabine liposome.