CI-1033 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

CI-958 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called DNA-intercalating compounds. Also called sedoxantrone trihydrochloride.

CI-980 An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called mitotic inhibitors. Also called mivobulin isethionate.

CI-994 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Also called N-acetyldinaline.

cidofovir A drug used in the treatment of infections caused by viruses.

cilengitide A substance that is being studied as an anticancer and antiangiogenesis drug. Also called EMD 121974.

cimetidine A drug usually used to treat stomach ulcers and heartburn. It is also commonly used in a regimen to prevent allergic reactions.

Cipro A drug used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It is also being studied in the treatment of bladder cancer. Cipro belongs to the family of drugs called fluoroquinolones. Also called ciprofloxacin.

ciprofloxacin (sip-roe-FLOX-a-sin) A drug used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It is also being studied in the treatment of bladder cancer. Ciprofloxacin belongs to the family of drugs called fluoroquinolones. Also called Cipro.

circulatory system The system that contains the heart and the blood vessels and moves blood throughout the body. This system helps tissues get enough oxygen and nutrients, and it helps them get rid of waste products. The lymph system, which connects with the blood system, is often considered part of the circulatory system.

circumcision (SUR-kum-SIH-zhun) Surgery to remove part or all of the foreskin (loose skin that covers the head of the penis).

cirrhosis A type of chronic, progressive liver disease in which liver cells are replaced by scar tissue.

CIS Cancer Information Service. The CIS is the National Cancer Institute’s link to the public, interpreting and explaining research findings in a clear and understandable manner, and providing personalized responses to specific questions about cancer. Access the CIS by calling 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237), or by using the Web site at http://cis.nci.nih.gov.

cisplatin An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called platinum compounds.

citalopram (sy-TAL-oh-pram) A drug used to treat depression. It belongs to the families of drugs called antidepressant agents and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Also called Celexa.

citric acid/potassium-sodium citrate A drug used in the treatment of metabolic acidosis (a disorder in which the blood is too acidic).

cladribine An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.

clarithromycin An antibiotic drug used in the treatment of infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called macrolides.

Claus model A computer program that uses statistics to predict a person’s risk for developing breast cancer based on family history.

clavicle Collar bone.

clear cell A type of cell that looks clear inside when viewed under a microscope.

clear cell adenocarcinoma A rare type of tumor, usually of the female genital tract, in which the inside of the cells look clear when viewed under a microscope. Also called clear cell carcinoma and mesonephroma.

clear cell carcinoma (…KAR-sih-NOH-muh) A rare type of tumor, usually of the female genital tract, in which the inside of the cells look clear when viewed under a microscope. Also called clear cell adenocarcinoma and mesonephroma.

clear cell sarcoma of the kidney A rare type of kidney cancer. Clear cell sarcoma can spread from the kidney to other organs, most commonly the bone, but also including the lungs, brain, and soft tissues of the body.

cleaved Having to do with the appearance of cells when viewed under a microscope. The nucleus of cleaved cells appears divided or segmented.

clergy (KLUR-jee) Ordained individuals who perform spiritual and/or religious functions.

clinical Having to do with the examination and treatment of patients.

clinical breast exam An exam of the breast performed by a health care provider to check for lumps or other changes.

clinical practice guidelines Guidelines developed to help health care professionals and patients make decisions about screening, prevention, or treatment of a specific health condition.

clinical resistance The failure of a cancer to shrink after treatment.

clinical series A case series in which the patients receive treatment in a clinic or other medical facility.

clinical study A type of research study that tests how well new medical approaches work in people. These studies test new methods of screening, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of a disease. Also called a clinical trial.

clinical trial A type of research study that tests how well new medical approaches work in people. These studies test new methods of screening, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of a disease. Also called a clinical study.

CLL Chronic lymphocytic leukemia. A common type of indolent (slowly progressing) cancer in which too many lymphocytes (white blood cells) are found in the peripheral blood and bone marrow. Most patients with CLL are older than 50 years and have no symptoms at the time of their diagnosis.

clodronate A drug used in the treatment of hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood) and cancer that has spread to the bone (bone metastases). It may decrease pain, the risk of fractures, and the development of new bone metastases.

clofarabine A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called nucleoside analogs. Also called Clolar.

Clolar A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called nucleoside analogs. Also called clofarabine.

CML Chronic myelogenous leukemia. A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells are made in the bone marrow. Also called chronic granulocytic leukemia.

CMML Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. A slowly progressing type of myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disease in which too many myelomonocytes (a type of white blood cell) are in the bone marrow, crowding out other normal blood cells, such as other white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.

CMV Cytomegalovirus. A virus that may be carried in an inactive state for life by healthy individuals. It is a cause of severe pneumonia in people with a suppressed immune system, such as those undergoing bone marrow transplantation or those with leukemia or lymphoma.

cnicin A substance found in certain plants, including blessed thistle. It has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems. It may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Cnicin belongs to a group of substances called sesquiterpene lactones.

CNS Central nervous system. The brain and spinal cord.

CNS metastasis (meh-TAS-ta-sis) Central nervous system metastasis. Cancer that has spread from the original (primary) tumor to the central nervous system (CNS).

CNS PNET Central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumor. A type of cancer that arises from a particular type of cell within the brain or spinal cord.

CNS prophylaxis (pro-fih-LAK-sis) Chemotherapy or radiation therapy given to the central nervous system (CNS) as a preventive treatment. It is given to kill cancer cells that may be in the brain and spinal cord, even though no cancer has been detected there. Also called CNS sanctuary therapy.

CNS sanctuary therapy Central nervous system sanctuary therapy. Chemotherapy or radiation therapy given to the central nervous system (CNS) as a preventive treatment. It is given to kill cancer cells that may be in the brain and spinal cord, even though no cancer has been detected there. Also called CNS prophylaxis.

CNS tumor Central nervous system tumor. A tumor of the central nervous system (CNS), including brain stem glioma, craniopharyngioma, medulloblastoma, and meningioma.

co-culture A mixture of two or more different kinds of cells that are grown together.

co-trimoxazole A drug used in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria and protozoa. It is a combination of two anti-infection drugs, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim.

coactivated T cell A T cell that has been coated with monoclonal antibodies to enhance its ability to kill tumor cells.

cobalamin (koh-BAH-luh-min) A vitamin that is needed to make red blood cells and DNA (the genetic material in cells) and to keep nerve cells healthy. It is found in eggs, meat, poultry, shellfish, milk, and milk products. Cobalamin, along with folate, may be given to help reduce side effects in cancer patients being treated with drugs called antimetabolites. Also called vitamin B12.

cobalt 60 A radioactive form of the metal cobalt, which is used as a source of radiation to treat cancer.

coccyx (KOK-six) The small bone at the bottom of the spine. It is made up of 3-5 fused bones. Also called the tail bone.

Cockayne syndrome A genetic condition characterized by short stature, premature aging, sensitivity to light, and possibly deafness and mental retardation.

coenzyme Q10 A substance found in most tissues in the body, and in many foods. It can also be made in the laboratory. It is used by the body to produce energy for cells, and as an antioxidant. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer and in the relief of side effects caused by some cancer treatments. Also called Q10, CoQ10, vitamin Q10, and ubiquinone.

cohort study A research study that compares a particular outcome (such as lung cancer) in groups of individuals who are alike in many ways but differ by a certain characteristic (for example, female nurses who smoke compared with those who do not smoke).

COL-3 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. COL-3 may block tumor growth by preventing the growth of new blood vessels into tumors. It belongs to the families of drugs called matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors and angiogenesis inhibitors.

cold nodule When radioactive material is used to examine the thyroid with a scanner, nodules that collect less radioactive material than the surrounding thyroid tissue are considered “cold.” A nodule that is cold does not make thyroid hormone. Cold nodules may be benign or cancerous. Cold nodules are sometimes called hypofunctioning nodules.

colectomy (ko-LEK-tuh-mee) An operation to remove all or part of the colon. When only part of the colon is removed, it is called a partial colectomy. In an open colectomy, one long incision is made in the wall of the abdomen and doctors can see the colon directly. In a laparoscopic-assisted colectomy, several small incisions are made and a thin, lighted tube attached to a video camera is inserted through one opening to guide the surgery. Surgical instruments are inserted through the other openings to perform the surgery.

colitis Inflammation of the colon.

collagen A fibrous protein found in cartilage and other connective tissue.

collagen disease A term previously used to describe chronic diseases of the connective tissue (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and systemic sclerosis), but now is thought to be more appropriate for diseases associated with defects in collagen, which is a component of the connective tissue.

collagenase A type of enzyme that breaks down the protein collagen.

collecting duct The last part of a long, twisting tube that collects urine from the nephrons (cellular structures in the kidney that filter blood and form urine) and moves it into the renal pelvis and ureters. Also called renal collecting tubule.

coloanal anastomosis A surgical procedure in which the colon is attached to the anus after the rectum has been removed. Also called coloanal pull-through.

coloanal pull-through A surgical procedure in which the colon is attached to the anus after the rectum has been removed. Also called coloanal anastomosis.

colon (KO-lun) The longest part of the large intestine, which is a tube-like organ connected to the small intestine at one end and the anus at the other. The colon removes water and some nutrients and electrolytes from partially digested food. The remaining material, solid waste called stool, moves through the colon to the rectum and leaves the body through the anus.

colon cancer (KO-lun) Cancer that develops in the tissues of the colon.

colon polyp An abnormal growth of tissue in the lining of the bowel. Polyps are a risk factor for colon cancer.

colonoscope (ko-LAHN-o-skope) A thin, lighted tube used to examine the inside of the colon.

colonoscopy (koh-luh-NAHS-kuh-pee) An examination of the inside of the colon using a thin, lighted tube, called a colonoscope, inserted into the rectum. Samples of tissues may be collected for examination under a microscope.

colony-stimulating factor A substance that stimulates the production of blood cells. Colony-stimulating factors include granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (also called G-CSF and filgrastim), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factors (also called GM-CSF and sargramostim), and promegapoietin.

colorectal (ko-lo-REK-tul) Having to do with the colon or the rectum.

colorectal cancer (KOH-loh-REK-tul KAN-ser) Cancer that develops in the colon (large intestine) and/or the rectum (the last several inches of the large intestine before the anus).

colostomy (ko-LAHS-toe-mee) An opening into the colon from the outside of the body. A colostomy provides a new path for waste material to leave the body after part of the colon has been removed.

colposcope (KUL-puh-scope) A lighted magnifying instrument used to examine the vagina and cervix.

colposcopy (kul-PAHS-ko-pee) Examination of the vagina and cervix using a lighted magnifying instrument called a colposcope.

combination chemotherapy Treatment using more than one anticancer drug.

combretastatin A4 phosphate A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called tubulin-binding agents.

comedo carcinoma A type of ductal carcinoma in situ (very early-stage breast cancer).

comfort care Care given to improve the quality of life of patients who have a serious or life-threatening disease. The goal of comfort care is to prevent or treat as early as possible the symptoms of the disease, side effects caused by treatment of the disease, and psychological, social, and spiritual problems related to the disease or its treatment. Also called palliative care, supportive care, and symptom management.

common bile duct Carries bile from the liver and gallbladder into the duodenum (the upper part of the small intestine).

comorbidity The condition of having two or more diseases at the same time.

compassionate use trial A way to provide an investigational therapy to a patient who is not eligible to receive that therapy in a clinical trial, but who has a serious or life-threatening illness for which other treatments are not available. Compassionate use allows a patient to receive promising but not yet fully studied or approved cancer therapies when no other treatment option exists. Also called expanded access trial.

complementary and alternative medicine CAM. Forms of treatment that are used in addition to (complementary) or instead of (alternative) standard treatments. These practices generally are not considered standard medical approaches. Standard treatments go through a long and careful research process to prove they are safe and effective, but less is known about most types of CAM. CAM may include dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.

complementary medicine Practices often used to enhance or complement standard treatments. They generally are not recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches. Complementary medicine may include dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.

complete blood count CBC. A test to check the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a sample of blood. Also called blood cell count.

complete hysterectomy (hiss-ter-EK-toe-mee) Surgery to remove the entire uterus, including the cervix. Sometimes, not all of the cervix is removed. Also called total hysterectomy.

complete metastasectomy (meh-TAS-ta-SEC-tuh-mee) Surgery to remove all metastases (tumors formed from cells that have spread from the primary tumor).

complete remission The disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment. This does not always mean the cancer has been cured. Also called a complete response.

complete response The disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment. This does not always mean the cancer has been cured. Also called a complete remission.

compound (KOM-pownd) In science, a substance that is made up of more than one ingredient.

compound nevus (KOM-pownd NEE-vus) A type of mole formed by groups of nevus cells found in the epidermis and dermis (the two main layers of tissue that make up the skin).

compression bandage A bandage designed to provide pressure to a particular area.

computed tomographic colonography CTC. A procedure in which a detailed picture of the colon is created by an x-ray machine linked to a computer. Also called computed tomography (CT) scan or computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan of the colon.

computed tomography (tuh-MAH-gra-fee) CT scan. A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body taken from different angles; the pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. Also called computerized tomography and computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan.

computed tomography colography A method under study to examine the colon by taking a series of x-rays (called a CT scan) and using a high-powered computer to reconstruct 2-D and 3-D pictures of the interior surfaces of the colon from these x-rays. The pictures can be saved, manipulated to better viewing angles, and reviewed after the procedure, even years later. Also called virtual colonoscopy.

computerized axial tomography (com-PYEW-ter-ized AX-ee-al tuh-MAH-gra-fee) A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body taken from different angles; the pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. Also called CAT scan, computed tomography (CT scan), or computerized tomography.

computerized tomography A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body taken from different angles; the pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. Also called computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan and computed tomography (CT scan).

conception (kun-SEP-shun) In biology, the beginning of pregnancy, marked by fertilization of an egg by a sperm.

concurrent therapy A treatment that is given at the same time as another.

conditioned stimulus A situation in which one signal, or stimulus, is given just before another signal. After this happens several times, the first signal alone can cause the response that would usually need the second signal.

condyloma (kahn-dih-LO-ma) A raised growth on the surface of the genitals caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The HPV in condyloma is very contagious and can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, usually during oral, anal, or genital sex with an infected partner. A female with condyloma is at an increased risk for developing cervical cancer. Also called genital wart and condylomata acuminata.

condylomata acuminata (kahn-dih-LO-ma-ta a-kyoo-mih-NA-ta) A raised growth on the surface of the genitals caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The HPV in condylomata acuminata is very contagious and can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, usually during oral, anal, or genital sex with an infected partner. A female with condylomata acuminata is at an increased risk for developing cervical cancer. Also called condyloma and genital wart.

cone biopsy Surgery to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix and cervical canal. Cone biopsy may be used to diagnose or treat a cervical condition. Also called conization.

confusion (kun-FYOO-zhun) A mental state in which one is not thinking clearly.

congestive heart failure Weakness of the heart muscle that leads to a buildup of fluid in body tissues.

conization (ko-nih-ZAY-shun) Surgery to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix and cervical canal. Conization may be used to diagnose or treat a cervical condition. Also called cone biopsy.

conjunctiva A membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and also covers the front part of the eye. Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva.

conjunctivitis A condition in which the conjunctiva (membranes lining the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye) become inflamed or infected. Also called pinkeye.

connective tissue Supporting tissue that surrounds other tissues and organs. Specialized connective tissue includes bone, cartilage, blood, and fat.

consecutive case series A clinical study that includes all eligible patients identified by the researchers during the study registration period. The patients are treated in the order in which they are identified. This type of study usually does not have a control group.

consolidation therapy A type of high-dose chemotherapy often given as the second phase (after induction therapy) of a cancer treatment regimen for leukemia. Also called intensification therapy.

constipation (KAHN-stih-PAY-shun) A condition in which stool becomes hard, dry, and difficult to pass, and bowel movements don’t happen very often. Other symptoms may include painful bowel movements, and feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish.

contiguous Touching or very close together.

contiguous lymphoma (kun-TIG-yoo-us lim-FOH-muh) Lymphoma in which the lymph nodes containing cancer are next to each other.

continent reservoir (KAHN-tih-nent RES-er-vwar) A pouch formed from a piece of small intestine to hold urine after the bladder has been removed.

contingency management In medicine, a treatment plan that gives immediate rewards for desired changes in behavior. It is based on the principle that if a good behavior is rewarded, it is more likely to be repeated. This is often used in the treatment of drug and alcohol abuse, and is being studied as a smoking cessation method.

continuous hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion CHPP. A procedure that bathes the abdominal cavity in fluid that contains anticancer drugs. This fluid is warmer than body temperature. This procedure appears to kill cancer cells without harming normal cells.

continuous infusion The administration of a fluid into a blood vessel, usually over a prolonged period of time.

contraindication A symptom or medical condition that makes a particular treatment or procedure inadvisable because a person is likely to have a bad reaction. For example, having a bleeding disorder is a contraindication for taking aspirin because treatment with aspirin may cause excess bleeding.

contralateral Having to do with the opposite side of the body.

contrast material A dye or other substance that helps show abnormal areas inside the body. It is given by injection into a vein, by enema, or by mouth. Contrast material may be used with x-rays, CT scans, MRI, or other imaging tests.

control animal An animal in a study that does not receive the treatment being tested. Comparing the health of control animals with the health of treated animals allows researchers to evaluate the effects of a treatment more accurately.

control group In a clinical trial, the group that does not receive the new treatment being studied. This group is compared to the group that receives the new treatment, to see if the new treatment works.

controlled clinical trial A clinical study that includes a comparison (control) group. The comparison group receives a placebo, another treatment, or no treatment at all.

controlled study An experiment or clinical trial that includes a comparison (control) group.

conventional medicine (kun-VEN-shuh-nul MED-ih-sin) A system in which medical doctors and other healthcare professionals (such as nurses, pharmacists, and therapists) treat symptoms and diseases using drugs, radiation, or surgery. Also called Western medicine, mainstream medicine, orthodox medicine, biomedicine, and allopathic medicine.

conventional therapy A currently accepted and widely used treatment for a certain type of disease, based on the results of past research. Also called conventional treatment.

conventional treatment A currently accepted and widely used treatment for a certain type of disease, based on the results of past research. Also called conventional therapy.

cooperative group A group of physicians, hospitals, or both formed to treat a large number of persons in the same way so that a new treatment can be evaluated quickly. Clinical trials of new cancer treatments often require many more people than a single physician or hospital can care for.

coping skills (KOH-ping skilz) The methods a person uses to deal with stressful situations. These may help a person face a situation, take action, and be flexible and persistent in solving problems.

CoQ10 A substance found in most tissues in the body, and in many foods. It can also be made in the laboratory. It is used by the body to produce energy for cells, and as an antioxidant. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer and in the relief of side effects caused by some cancer treatments. Also called coenzyme Q10, Q10, vitamin Q10, and ubiquinone.

cordectomy (kor-DEK-tuh-mee) An operation on the vocal cords or on the spinal cord.

cordycepin An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called antitumor antibiotics.

core biopsy The removal of a tissue sample with a needle for examination under a microscope.

cornea The transparent part of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil and allows light to enter the inside.

coronary artery disease (KOR-uh-nayr-ee AR-tuh-ree dih-ZEEZ) CAD. A disease in which there is a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (blood vessels that carry blood and oxygen to the heart). Coronary artery disease is usually caused by atherosclerosis (a build up of fatty material and plaque inside the coronary arteries). The disease may cause chest pain, shortness of breath during exercise, and heart attacks. The risk of coronary artery disease is increased by having a family history of coronary artery disease before age 50, older age, smoking tobacco, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, lack of exercise, and obesity. Also called coronary heart disease.

coronary heart disease (KOR-uh-nayr-ee hart dih-ZEEZ) A disease in which there is a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (blood vessels that carry blood and oxygen to the heart). Coronary heart disease is usually caused by atherosclerosis (a build up of fatty material and plaque inside the coronary arteries). The disease may cause chest pain, shortness of breath during exercise, and heart attacks. The risk of coronary heart disease is increased by having a family history of coronary heart disease before age 50, older age, smoking tobacco, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, lack of exercise, and obesity. Also called coronary artery disease (CAD).

corpus The body of the uterus.

corticosteroid A hormone that has antitumor activity in lymphomas and lymphoid leukemias. Corticosteroids (steroids) may also be used for hormone replacement and for the management of some of the complications of cancer and its treatment.

corticotropin (KOR-tih-koh-TROH-pin) A form of the hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It belongs to the family of drugs called corticosteroids.

cortisone A natural steroid hormone produced in the adrenal gland. It can also be made in the laboratory. Cortisone reduces swelling and can suppress immune responses.

Corynebacterium granulosum A bacterium that may stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.

coumestan An estrogen-like substance (phytoestrogen) made by some plants. Coumestans may have anticancer effects.

coumestrol A type of coumestan. Coumestans are estrogen-like substances (phytoestrogens) made by some plants. Coumestans may have anticancer effects.

counseling (KOWN-suh-ling) The process by which a professional counselor helps a person cope with mental or emotional distress, and understand and solve personal problems.

COX inhibitor (kox in-HIH-bih-ter) A type of drug that is used to treat inflammation and pain, and is being studied in the prevention and treatment of cancer. COX inhibitors belong to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Also called cyclooxygenase inhibitor.

COX-2 inhibitor Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve pain and inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors are being studied in the prevention of colon polyps, and as anticancer drugs.

CP-358,774 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Also called erlotinib.

CP-547,632 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the families of drugs called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor inhibitors and angiogenesis inhibitors.

CP-609,754 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer.

CP-724,714 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called ErbB receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

CP4071 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer.

CpG 7909 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called immune system stimulants.

CPT 11 An anticancer drug that belongs to a family of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors. It is a camptothecin analogue. Also called irinotecan.

CQS Chloroquinoxaline sulfonamide. A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer.

craniopharyngioma (KRAY-nee-o-fah-rin-jee-O-ma) A benign brain tumor that may be considered malignant because it can damage the hypothalamus, the area of the brain that controls body temperature, hunger, and thirst.

craniotomy (kray-nee-AH-toe-mee) An operation in which an opening is made in the skull.

creatine A substance that is made by the body and used to store energy. It is being studied in the treatment of weight loss related to cancer. It is derived from the amino acid arginine.

creatinine (cree-AT-ih-nin) A compound that is excreted from the body in urine. Creatinine levels are measured to monitor kidney function.

crib death The sudden and unexpected death of a healthy child who is younger than one year old, usually during sleep. The cause of crib death is not known. Also called sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

cribriform Pierced with small holes as in a sieve. Refers to the appearance of a tumor when viewed under a microscope. The tumor appears to have open spaces or small holes inside.

crisis intervention (KRY-sis IN-tur-VEN-shun) Immediate, short-term counseling (talking with a professional counselor) to stop a critical emotional incident (e.g., attempted suicide or drug overdose) from getting worse. Crisis intervention is not meant to solve the problem that led up to the crisis.

crisnatol mesylate An anticancer drug that interferes with the DNA in cancer cells.

Crocinic Acid A liquid that has been promoted as a treatment for a wide range of diseases, including cancer. The ingredients thought to be in Crocinic Acid have been tested, and none of them has been shown to be effective in treating any form of cancer. Crocinic Acid is not available in the United States. Also called Entelev, Sheridan’s Formula, Jim’s Juice, Cancell, JS–114, JS–101, 126–F, and Cantron.

Crohn’s disease (krone) Chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly the small intestine and colon. Crohn’s disease increases the risk for colorectal cancer and small intestine cancer. Also called regional enteritis.

cruciferous vegetable A member of the family of vegetables that includes kale, collard greens, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and turnips. These vegetables contain substances that may protect against cancer.

cryopreservation The process of cooling and storing cells, tissues, or organs at very low or freezing temperatures to save them for future use.

cryosurgery (KRY-o-SER-juh-ree) A procedure performed with an instrument that freezes and destroys abnormal tissues.

cryotherapy Any method that uses cold temperature to treat disease.

cryptorchidism (kript-OR-kid-izm) A condition in which one or both testicles fail to move from the abdomen, where they develop before birth, into the scrotum. Cryptorchidism may increase the risk for development of testicular cancer. Also called undescended testicles.

CSF Cerebrospinal fluid. The fluid flowing around the brain and spinal cord. CSF is produced in the ventricles of the brain.

CT scan Computed tomography scan. A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body taken from different angles; the pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. Also called computerized tomography and computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan.

CT-2103 A protein that can be linked to a chemotherapy drug to deliver the drug directly to the tumor with fewer side effects. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer. Also called polyglutamate paclitaxel.

CT-2106 A form of the anticancer drug camptothecin that may have fewer side effects and work better than camptothecin. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called DNA topoisomerase inhibitors. Also called polyglutamate camptothecin.

CT-2584 A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It may prevent the growth of blood vessels from surrounding tissue into a solid tumor.

CTC Computed tomographic colonography. A procedure in which a detailed picture of the colon is created by an x-ray machine linked to a computer. Also called computed tomography (CT) scan or computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan of the colon.

cultured cell A human, plant, or animal cell that has been adapted to grow in the laboratory.

cultured cell line Cells of a single type (human, animal, or plant) that have been adapted to grow continuously in the laboratory and are used in research.

cumulative dose In medicine, the total amount of a drug or radiation given to a patient over time; for example, the total dose of radiation given in a series of radiation treatments.

cupping (KUP-ping) A procedure in which a rounded glass cup is warmed and placed upside down over an area of the body, creating suction that holds the cup to the skin. Cupping increases the flow of blood. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is also thought to increase the flow of qi (vital energy).

curcumin A yellow pigment of the spice turmeric that is being studied in cancer prevention.

cure To heal or restore health; a treatment to restore health.

curettage (kyoo-reh-TAHZH) Removal of tissue with a curette (a spoon-shaped instrument with a sharp edge).

curette (kyoo-RET) A spoon-shaped instrument with a sharp edge.

cutaneous (kyoo-TAY-nee-us) Having to do with the skin.

cutaneous breast cancer Cancer that has spread from the breast to the skin.

cutaneous T-cell lymphoma A disease in which certain cells of the lymph system (called T lymphocytes) become cancerous (malignant) and affect the skin.

cyanogenic glucoside A plant compound that contains sugar and produces cyanide.

cyanosis Blue-colored skin caused by too little oxygen in the blood.

cyclooxygenase inhibitor A type of drug that is used to treat inflammation and pain, and is being studied in the prevention and treatment of cancer. COX inhibitors belong to the family of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Also called COX inhibitor.

cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor COX-2 inhibitor. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve pain and inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors are being studied in the prevention of colon polyps, and as anticancer drugs.

cyclophosphamide An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.

cyclosporine A drug used to help reduce the risk of rejection of organ and bone marrow transplants by the body. It is also used in clinical trials to make cancer cells more sensitive to anticancer drugs.

cyproheptadine (si-pro-HEP-ta-deen) A drug that is used to treat asthma, allergies, and colds, and to relieve itching caused by certain skin disorders. It has also been used to stimulate appetite and weight gain, and is being studied in the treatment of weight loss caused by cancer and its treatment. Cyproheptadine belongs to the family of drugs called antihistamines.

cyproterone acetate A synthetic hormone being studied for treatment of hot flashes in men with prostate cancer who have had both testicles removed by surgery.

cyst (sist) A sac or capsule in the body. It may be filled with fluid or other material.

cystectomy (sis-TEK-tuh-mee) Surgery to remove all or part of the bladder.

cystic fibrosis A common hereditary disease in which exocrine (secretory) glands produce abnormally thick mucus. This mucus can cause problems in digestion, breathing, and body cooling.

cystoprostatectomy (SIS-toh-pros-tuh-TEK-toh-mee) Surgery to remove the bladder (the organ that holds urine), the seminal vesicles, and the prostate. The seminal vesicles and prostate are glands in the male reproductive system that help make semen. Also called prostatocystectomy.

cystosarcoma phyllodes CSP. A type of tumor found in breast tissue. It is often large and bulky and grows quickly. It is usually benign (not cancer), but may be malignant (cancer). Also called phyllodes tumor.

cystoscope (SIS-toe-skope) A thin, lighted instrument used to look inside the bladder and remove tissue samples or small tumors.

cystoscopy (sist-OSS-ko-pee) Examination of the bladder and urethra using a thin, lighted instrument (called a cystoscope) inserted into the urethra. Tissue samples can be removed and examined under a microscope to determine whether disease is present.

cystourethrectomy (SIS-toh-yoor-eh-THREK-toh-mee) Surgery to remove the bladder (the organ that holds urine) and urethra (the tube through which urine leaves the body).

cytarabine An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.

cytochlor A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called radiosensitizers.

cytochrome P450 enzyme system A group of enzymes involved in drug metabolism and found in high levels in the liver. These enzymes change many drugs, including anticancer drugs, into less toxic forms that are easier for the body to excrete.

cytogenetics (SITE-o-juh-NET-iks) The study of chromosomes and chromosomal abnormalities.

cytokine A substance that is produced by cells of the immune system and can affect the immune response. Cytokines can also be produced in the laboratory by recombinant DNA technology and given to people to affect immune responses.

cytology The study of cells using a microscope.

cytomegalovirus CMV. A virus that may be carried in an inactive state for life by healthy individuals. It is a cause of severe pneumonia in people with a suppressed immune system, such as those undergoing bone marrow transplantation or those with leukemia or lymphoma.

cytopenia A reduction in the number of blood cells.

cytoplasm The fluid inside a cell but outside the cell’s nucleus. Most chemical reactions in a cell take place in the cytoplasm.

cytotoxic Cell-killing.

cytotoxic chemotherapy Anticancer drugs that kill cells, especially cancer cells.

cytotoxic T cell A type of white blood cell that can directly destroy specific cells. T cells can be separated from other blood cells, grown in the laboratory, and then given to a patient to destroy tumor cells. Certain cytokines can also be given to a patient to help form cytotoxic T cells in the patient’s body.