Glossary of Medical Terms

A protein on the surface of certain cells that binds another protein called TRAIL, which may kill some cancer cells. An increase in the amount or activity of DR5 on cancer cells may kill more cells. Also called death receptor 5, TRAIL receptor 2, TRAIL-R2, and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 10B.

In medicine, to remove fluid as it collects; or, a tube or wick-like device used to remove fluid from a body cavity, wound, or infected area.

An examination in which a doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities. Also called digital rectal examination.

Episodes of excessive sweating that occur during sleep and soak a person’s bedclothes and bed sheets, which may cause the person to wake up. Drenching night sweats that do not go away and occur with other signs and symptoms, such as fever, weight loss, and fatigue, may be a symptom of some types of cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma. Not all people who have drenching night sweats have cancer.

A set of guidelines developed by U.S. and Canadian scientists to give information about the role of nutrients in human health. These guidelines include the Reference Daily Intakes (RDI), which are the recommended amounts of nutrients to be eaten each day to meet the needs of most healthy people. This system replaced the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). Also called Dietary Reference Intakes.

A term used to describe changes in the DNA sequence of genes that cause cells to become cancer cells and grow and spread in the body. Checking tumor tissue for driver mutations may help plan treatment to stop cancer cells from growing, including drugs that target a specific mutation.

A synthetic pill form of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an active ingredient in marijuana that is used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy.

A drug used to prevent nausea and vomiting in patients who receive anesthesia before surgery. It is also used to treat anxiety. Droperidol is a type of antiemetic, adjunct anesthesia, and antipsychotic.

A drug used to treat certain patients with sickle cell anemia. It is also being studied in the treatment of other conditions and some types of cancer. Droxia may help keep abnormal red blood cells from forming. Droxia contains the active ingredient hydroxyurea. It is a type of antimetabolite.

Any substance (other than food) that is used to prevent, diagnose, treat, or relieve symptoms of a disease or abnormal condition. Drugs can also affect how the brain and the rest of the body work and cause changes in mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, or behavior. Some types of drugs, such as opioids, may be abused or lead to addiction.