Cytoreductive

Term: CytoreductiveDefinition: A treatment aimed at reducing the number of cancer cells in the body, often used in conjunction with other therapies like surgery or chemotherapy.Phonetic Pronunciation: (sy-toh-RED-uk-tiv)Origin: The term 'cytoreductive' is derived from the Greek words 'kytos,' meaning cell, and 'reducere,' meaning to bring back or reduce. It reflects the medical goal of diminishing the cellular mass of a tumor.Significance in Asbestos Context: Cytoreductive therapy is significant in asbestos-related cases because it can be part of the treatment regimen for cancers such as mesothelioma, which is directly linked to asbestos exposure. This approach can help manage the disease and potentially extend the life of affected individuals.Example Sentence: After his diagnosis with asbestos-related mesothelioma, the patient underwent cytoreductive surgery followed by chemotherapy to manage the spread of the cancer.Related Terms: Chemotherapy, Surgery, Mesothelioma, Debulking, Palliative CareNotes: - Cytoreductive therapy does not necessarily cure the cancer but can significantly reduce tumor size. - It is often used when complete removal of the tumor is not possible. - The effectiveness of cytoreductive therapy can vary widely depending on the individual case and type of cancer.