Health Care Professional Information
Scientific Name
Radix isatidis baphicacanthi, Isatis tinctoria, Isatis indigotica
Clinical Summary
Derived from the root of the isatis plant, a source of indigo dye. This botanical has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. It is used in combination with other herbs to treat common cold, sore throat, mumps, respiratory aliments, other febrile diseases and malignant tumors (1) (2). The leaves of this plant are one of the eight ingredients used in PC-SPES, an herbal formula used to treat prostate cancer. Isatis root is also used in Danggui Longhui Wan, a formula used to treat chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML) in China (3).
Isatis root exhibited antimicrobial (4), antiviral (1) (5) immunostimulatory effects (3) (6), and radioprotective effects (8)in vitro and in animal studies. Anecdotal reports show that isatis root can be used to ward off severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) (9).
Isatis root eyedrops were shown effective in the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis (4)and a small randomized clinical study demonstrated its utility in reducing the severity of radiation mucositis (7).
Purported Uses
- Bronchitis
- Cancer treatment
- Chest congestion
- Common cold
- Fever
- Infections
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)
- Viral infections
Constituents
- Indirubin
- Indoxyl-beta-glucoside
- Beta-sitosterol
- Isatin
- Amino acids: Arginine, glutamine, proline, tyrosine.
(1) (2)
Mechanism of Action
Isatis root extract has anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and antinociceptive effects on animals (8) (10). Extracts obtained from the dried leaves of isatis have cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitory effects (11). Isatis root also has immunostimulatory effects by enhancing reticuloendothelial system function. One animal study found that indigo root extract reduced tissue injury, enhanced hematopoietic system recovery, modulated serum inflammatory cytokines, and improved severe enteropathy in whole body irradiated mice (8). An in vitro study also found that an ethanol extract of isatis root had a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect against human leukemia HL-60 cells (12). Indirubin, an active component of isatis, is a potent inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). It inhibits the proliferation of cells by arresting the cells in the G2/M phase (3). Other alkaloids isolated from isatis can inhibit leukocyte function and reduce inflammatory response (13). Some studies show that isatis also has antiviral activities (5) (12).
Warnings
The effect of isatis or Ban Lan Gen on severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is not known. Patients are warned that reliance on herbal supplements as prevention or treatment may induce a false sense of security from this deadly disease. Patients with suspected SARS should limit interactions outside the home. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that proper hygiene such as frequent hand washing and wearing a surgical mask can help prevent the spread of SARS (14).
Literature Summary and Critique
You WC, et al. Effect of extracts from indigowood root (Isatis indigotica Fort.) on immune responses in radiation-induced mucositis. J Altern Complement Med. 2009 Jul;15(7):771-8.
This study investigated the effect of indirubin (taken as isatis root powder) on acute radiation-induced mucositis. Twenty patients who were receiving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer were enrolled and randomized into a control or treatment group. The treatment group gargled with a solution made from indigowood root powder dissolved in double-distilled water for three minutes, and then swallowed it, before meals daily for seven weeks. The results of the clinical trial indicated that indigowood root significantly reduced the severity of radiation mucositis (p=0.01), anorexia (p=0.002), and swallowing difficulty (p=0.002) in treated patients compared to the control group. The authors concluded that indirubin may play a therapeutic role in improving radiation-induced mucositis, anorexia, and difficulty swallowing, but that the exact mechanism and pathways should be further studied.
Qi CX, Wu XM, Wang XL. Clinical research of isatis root eyedrops on the acute bacterial conjunctivitis. Zhong Yao Cai. 2007 Jan;30(1):120-2
This randomized, double-blind, parallel study evaluated the efficacy and safety of isatis root eyedrops on 200 cases of acute bacterial conjunctivitis. Patients received either isatis root or levofloxacin eyedrops (as a test and control agent, respectively), six times a day for 7 days. The efficacy rate in the isatis root and levofloxacin groups was observed to be 90% and 93%, respectively, a difference which was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Two patients experienced side effects. The investigators concluded that isatis root eyedrops exhibited an excellent efficacy and safety profile in the treatment of acute bacterial conjunctivitis.
Dosage (Inside MSKCC Only)
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References
- Bensky D, Gamble A. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. Revised Ed. Seattle: Eastland Press; 1993.
- Hocking G. A Dictionary of Natural Products. Medford (NJ): Plexus Publishing Inc; 1997.
- Hoessel R, et al. Indirubin, the active constituent of a Chinese antileukaemia medicine, inhibits cyclin-dependent kinases. Nat Cell Biol. 1999;1:60-7.
- Qi CX, Wu XM, Wang XL. Clinical research of isatis root eyedrops on acute bacterial conjunctivitis. Zhong Yao Cai. 2007;30(1):120-2.
- Wang T, et al. Evaluation on antiendotoxic action and antiviral action in vitro of tetraploid Isatis indigotica. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2000;25:327-9.
- Xu YM, Lu PC. Experimental studies on immunostimulatory effects of the Isatis indigotica polysaccharide. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1991;11:357-9, 325-6.
- You WC, Hsieh CC, Huang JT. Effect of extracts from indigowood root (Isatis indigotica Fort.) on immune responses in radiation-induced mucositis. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(7):771-8.
- You WC, Lin WC, Huang JT, Hsieh CC. Indigowood root extract protects hematopoietic cells, reduces tissue damage and modulates inflammatory cytokines after total-body irradiation: does Indirubin play a role in radioprotection? Phytomedicine. 2009;16(12):1105-11.
- Saulny S. In Chinatown, An Outbreak of Fear. The New York Times 2003;April 4:D1
- Ho Y, Chang Y. Studies on the antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and anti pyretic effects of Isatis indigotica root. Phytomedicine. 2002;9:419-24.
- Danz H, et al. Identification and isolation of the cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitory principle in Isatis tinctoria. Planta Med. 2001;67:411-6.
- Hsuan SL, Chang SC, Wang SY, et al. The cytotoxicity to leukemia cells and antiviral effects of Isatis indigotica extracts on pseudorabies virus. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 May 4;123(1):61-7.
- Molina P, et al. Inhibition of leukocyte functions by the alkaloid isaindigotone from Isatis indigotica and some new synthetic derivatives. J Nat Prod. 2001;64:1297-300.
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Public Health Guidance for Community-Level Preparedness and Response to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Version 2. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars/guidance/I/index.htm [Accessed April 5, 2011]
Consumer Information
How It Works
Bottom Line: Isatis root has not been extensively studied in clinical trials, so it is not known if it works in humans.
Isatis root extract is derived from the same plant from which indigo dye is made. It has been used in combination with other botanicals in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. In animal tests, this root extract reduced inflammation, fever, and perception of pain. Isatis root also was able to stimulate the immune system of laboratory mice by enhancing the activity of the reticuloendothelial system (the stationary immune cells in the liver, spleen, and other tissues that swallow and destroy foreign particles as they pass in the bloodstream). Laboratory studies have also suggested that indirubin, an active component of isatis root, inhibits the replication of dividing cells and therefore may be useful in cancer treatment. In the laboratory setting, isatis extracts are able to kill certain viruses and counteract the effects of endotoxin, which causes some of the symptoms and tissue damage of bacterial infections. However, this botanical has not yet been evaluated in clinical trials and therefore it remains uncertain whether these effects occur in the human body.
Purported Uses
- To treat bronchitis and relieve chest congestion
Laboratory research suggests that isatis root has anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating activity, but there is no proof from clinical trials that it can relieve bronchitis and chest congestion.
- To treat the common cold
Laboratory research suggests that isatis root has anti-viral and immune-stimulating activity, but there is no proof from clinical trials that it can effectively treat the common cold.
- To prevent and treat cancer
Laboratory studies show that an active compound in isatis root, indirubin, inhibits the replication of dividing cells. This herb is used in China in combination with other botanicals to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). There is no evidence from clinical trials that isatis root can prevent or treat cancer.
- To reduce fever
Animal studies show that isatis root can reduce fever, but no clinical trials have been performed to test this use in humans.
- To fight viral infections
Laboratory research shows that isatis root has anti-viral activity, but there is no proof from clinical trials that it can effectively treat viral infections.
- To treat bacterial conjunctivitis
One clinical study suggested that isatis root eyedrops may be effective for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. However, further study is needed to confirm this effect.
- To prevent and treat severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)
Although laboratory research shows that isatis root has anti-viral activity, is has not been established whether this effect occurs in the human body. No studies in humans have been performed to verify the anecdotal reports that isatis might be helpful in warding off SARS.
Research Evidence
Radiation-induced Mucositis
Twenty patients who were receiving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer were randomized into control or treatment groups. The treatment group gargled with a solution made from indigowood root powder dissolved in double-distilled water for three minutes, and then swallowed it, before meals daily for seven weeks. Indigowood root significantly reduced the severity of radiation mucositis, anorexia, and difficulty in swallowing in treated patients compared to the control group.
Acute Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Two hundred patients with Acute Bacterial Conjunctivitis received either isatis root or levofloxacin eyedrops, six times a day for 7 days. The efficacy rate in the isatis root and levofloxacin groups was observed to be 90% and 93%, respectively, a difference which was not statistically significant. Two patients experienced side effects. Investigators concluded that isatis root eyedrops may be useful in the treatment of acute bacterial conjunctivitis.
Patient Warnings
- The effect of isatis root on severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is not known. It should be noted that reliance solely on herbal supplements as prevention or treatment may induce a false sense of security from this deadly disease. Patients with suspected SARS should limit interactions outside the home. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that proper hygiene such as frequent hand washing and wearing a surgical mask should be used to prevent the spread of SARS.
Last updated: April 26, 2012
acute (uh-KYOOT)
Symptoms or signs that begin and worsen quickly; not chronic.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)animal study (A-nih-mul STUH-dee)
A laboratory experiment using animals to study the development and progression of diseases. Animal studies also test how safe and effective new treatments are before they are tested in people.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)anorexia (a-nuh-REK-see-uh)
An abnormal loss of the appetite for food. Anorexia can be caused by cancer, AIDS, a mental disorder (i.e., anorexia nervosa), or other diseases.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)anti-inflammatory (AN-tee-in-FLA-muh-TOR-ee)
Having to do with reducing inflammation.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)antiviral (AN-tee-VY-rul)
A drug used to treat infections caused by viruses.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)arginine (AR-jih-neen)
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.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)Ayurvedic medicine (I-yer-VAY-dik MEH-dih-sin)
A medical system from India that has been used for thousands of years. The goal is to cleanse the body and to restore balance to the body, mind, and spirit. It uses diet, herbal medicines, exercise, meditation, breathing, physical therapy, and other methods. It is a type of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapy. Also called Ayurveda.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)botanical (buh-TA-nih-kul)
Having to do with, or derived from, plants.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)bronchitis (bron-KY-tis)
Inflammation (swelling and reddening) of the bronchi.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)cancer (KAN-ser)
A term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and can invade nearby tissues. Cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems. There are several main types of cancer. Carcinoma is a cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs. Sarcoma is a cancer that begins in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue. Leukemia is a cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow, and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced and enter the blood. Lymphoma and multiple myeloma are cancers that begin in the cells of the immune system. Central nervous system cancers are cancers that begin in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord. Also called malignancy.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)chronic (KRAH-nik)
A disease or condition that persists or progresses over a long period of time.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)chronic myelogenous leukemia (KRAH-nik MY-eh-LAH-jeh-nus loo-KEE-mee-uh)
A slowly progressing disease in which too many white blood cells (not lymphocytes) are made in the bone marrow. Also called chronic granulocytic leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, and CML.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)clinical (KLIH-nih-kul)
Having to do with the examination and treatment of patients.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)clinical study (KLIH-nih-kul STUH-dee)
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 clinical trial.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)clinical trial (KLIH-nih-kul TRY-ul)
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 clinical study.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)compound (KOM-pownd)
In science, a substance that is made up of more than one ingredient.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)conjunctivitis (kun-JUNK-tih-VY-tis)
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.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)control group (kun-TROLE groop)
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.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)cyclooxygenase-2 (SY-kloh-OK-sih-jeh-NAYS-2)
An enzyme that speeds up the formation of substances that cause inflammation and pain. It may also cause tumor cells to grow. Some tumors have high levels of cyclooxygenase-2 and blocking its activity may reduce tumor growth. Also called COX-2 and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)cytotoxic (SY-toh-TOK-sik)
Cell-killing.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)dose-dependent (dose-deh-PEN-dent)
Refers to the effects of treatment with a drug. If the effects change when the dose of the drug is changed, the effects are said to be dose-dependent.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)efficacy (EH-fih-kuh-see)
Effectiveness. In medicine, the ability of an intervention (for example, a drug or surgery) to produce the desired beneficial effect.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)extract (EK-strakt)
In medicine, a preparation of a substance obtained from plants, animals, or bacteria and used as a drug or in drugs.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)fever (FEE-ver)
An increase in body temperature above normal (98.6 degrees F), usually caused by disease.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)foreign (FOR-in)
In medicine, foreign describes something that comes from outside the body. A foreign substance in the body’s tissues, such as a bacterium or virus, may be recognized by the immune system as not belonging to the body. This causes an immune response. Other foreign substances in the body, such as artificial joints, are designed to not cause an immune response.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)glutamine (GLOO-tuh-meen)
An amino acid used in nutrition therapy. It is also being studied for the treatment of diarrhea caused by radiation therapy to the pelvis.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)head and neck cancer (... KAN-ser)
Cancer that arises in the head or neck region (in the nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, mouth, salivary glands, throat, or larynx [voice box]).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)herbal (ER-bul)
Having to do with plants.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)hygiene (HY-jeen)
The science of health, and the practice of cleanliness that promotes good health and well-being.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)immune system (ih-MYOON SIS-tem)
The complex group of organs and cells that defends the body against infections and other diseases.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)in vitro (in VEE-troh)
In the laboratory (outside the body). The opposite of in vivo (in the body).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)inflammation (IN-fluh-MAY-shun)
Redness, swelling, pain, and/or a feeling of heat in an area of the body. This is a protective reaction to injury, disease, or irritation of the tissues.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)inflammatory (in-FLA-muh-TOR-ee)
Having to do with inflammation (redness, swelling, pain, and a feeling of heat that helps protect tissues affected by injury or disease).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)irradiated (ih-RAY-dee-AY-ted)
Treated with radiation.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)leukemia (loo-KEE-mee-uh)
Cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow and causes large numbers of blood cells to be produced and enter the bloodstream.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)leukocyte (LOO-koh-site)
A type of immune cell. Most leukocytes are made in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and lymph tissue. Leukocytes help the body fight infections and other diseases. Granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes are leukocytes. Also called WBC and white blood cell.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)levofloxacin (LEE-voh-FLOK-suh-sin)
A substance used to treat bacterial infections. It belongs to the family of drugs called quinolone antibiotics.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)liver (LIH-ver)
A large organ located in the upper abdomen. The liver cleanses the blood and aids in digestion by secreting bile.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)mucositis (myoo-koh-SY-tis)
A complication of some cancer therapies in which the lining of the digestive system becomes inflamed. Often seen as sores in the mouth.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)myelogenous (MY-eh-LAH-jeh-nus)
Having to do with, produced by, or resembling the bone marrow. Sometimes used as a synonym for myeloid; for example, acute myeloid leukemia and acute myelogenous leukemia are the same disease.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)PC-SPES
A mixture of eight herbs that has been sold as a dietary supplement and promoted as a way to keep the prostate healthy and to treat prostate cancer. PC-SPES has been studied in the treatment of prostate cancer, but has been taken off the market in the U.S. because of safety concerns.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)prevention (pree-VEN-shun)
In medicine, action taken to decrease the chance of getting a disease or condition. For example, cancer prevention includes avoiding risk factors (such as smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, and radiation exposure) and increasing protective factors (such as getting regular physical activity, staying at a healthy weight, and having a healthy diet).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)prostate (PROS-tayt)
A gland in the male reproductive system. The prostate surrounds the part of the urethra (the tube that empties the bladder) just below the bladder, and produces a fluid that forms part of the semen.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)radiation (RAY-dee-AY-shun)
Energy released in the form of particle or electromagnetic waves. Common sources of radiation include radon gas, cosmic rays from outer space, medical x-rays, and energy given off by a radioisotope (unstable form of a chemical element that releases radiation as it breaks down and becomes more stable).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)radiation therapy (RAY-dee-AY-shun THAYR-uh-pee)
The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation may come from a machine outside the body (external-beam radiation therapy), or it may come from radioactive material placed in the body near cancer cells (internal radiation therapy). Systemic radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance, such as a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that travels in the blood to tissues throughout the body. Also called irradiation and radiotherapy.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)randomized
Describes an experiment or clinical trial in which animal or human subjects are assigned by chance to separate groups that compare different treatments.
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)response (reh-SPONTS)
In medicine, an improvement related to treatment.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)serum (SEER-um)
The clear liquid part of the blood that remains after blood cells and clotting proteins have been removed.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)significant (sig-NIH-fih-kunt)
In statistics, describes a mathematical measure of difference between groups. The difference is said to be significant if it is greater than what might be expected to happen by chance alone. Also called statistically significant.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)spleen (spleen)
An organ that is part of the lymphatic system. The spleen makes lymphocytes, filters the blood, stores blood cells, and destroys old blood cells. It is located on the left side of the abdomen near the stomach.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)statistically significant (stuh-TIS-tih-kuh-lee sig-NIH-fih-kunt)
Describes a mathematical measure of difference between groups. The difference is said to be statistically significant if it is greater than what might be expected to happen by chance alone. Also called significant.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)syndrome (SIN-drome)
A set of symptoms or conditions that occur together and suggest the presence of a certain disease or an increased chance of developing the disease.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)therapeutic (THAYR-uh-PYOO-tik)
Having to do with treating disease and helping healing take place.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)therapy (THAYR-uh-pee)
Treatment.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)tissue (TIH-shoo)
A group or layer of cells that work together to perform a specific function.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)viral (VY-rul)
Having to do with a virus.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)
