Glossary of Medical Terms

A protein that binds male hormones called androgens. ARs are found inside the cells of male reproductive tissue, some other types of tissue, and some cancer cells. In prostate cancer, androgens bind to ARs inside the cancer cells, which causes the cancer cells to grow. Also called androgen receptor.

Describes cells that do not have a protein that binds to androgens (male hormones). Cancer cells that are AR negative do not need androgens to grow. This means that they will keep growing when androgens are not present and do not stop growing when treatments that block androgens in the body are used. This can affect how the cancer is treated. Also called androgen receptor negative.

Describes cells that have a protein that binds to androgens (male hormones). Cancer cells that are AR positive may need androgens to grow. These cells may stop growing or die when they are treated with substances that block the binding and actions of androgen hormones. Also called androgen receptor positive.

A drug used with other drugs to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It is also used to prevent and treat a type of leukemia that has spread to the meninges (three thin layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord). It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. ARA-C blocks cells from making DNA and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimetabolite. Also called cytarabine.

A drug used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease and some types of chemotherapy. Aranesp is a form of erythropoietin (a substance naturally made by the kidneys) that is made in the laboratory. It helps the bone marrow make more red blood cells. Aranesp is a type of antianemic and a type of erythropoiesis-stimulating agent. Also called darbepoetin alfa.

A substance found in certain plants, including burdock. It has shown antiviral and anticancer effects. Arctigenin belongs to a group of substances called lignans.

A substance found in certain plants, including burdock. It has shown anticancer effects. Arctiin belongs to a group of substances called lignans.

A drug used to treat hypercalcemia (high blood levels of calcium) caused by certain types of cancer. It is also used with other anticancer drugs to treat multiple myeloma and breast cancer that has spread to bone. It is also used to treat Paget disease of the bone. Aredia may help keep bone from breaking down and prevent the loss of calcium from the bones. It is a type of bisphosphonate. Also called pamidronate disodium.

The area of dark-colored skin on the breast that surrounds the nipple.

One of the twenty common amino acids (building blocks of proteins). Arginine is being studied as a nutritional supplement in the treatment and prevention of cancer and other conditions. Also called L-arginine.