Health Care Professional Information
Brand Name
Carticin, Cartilade™, BeneFin™, Neovastat (Æ-941)
Clinical Summary
Obtained from the spiny dogfish shark and hammerhead shark (1), shark cartilage is promoted as a dietary supplement to treat cancer (2) (3) (4) (5), arthritis, osteoporosis, Kaposi sarcoma (6), macular degeneration, psoriasis (7), and inflammatory disorders. Shark cartilage extracts show antiangiogenic and antitumor activities in vitro (8) (9) and in animal models (10) (11) (12) (13), but clinical use remains controversial due to lack of bioavailability data and unsatisfactory patient outcomes in clinical trials (1) (14). Shark cartilage has also been studied for Kaposi sarcoma (6), metastatic renal cell carcinoma (5), and multiple myeloma (4) in early phase clinical trials. Neovastat (AE-941), a purified shark cartilage extract, did not improve survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (15), but is effective against psoriasis (7).
Most trials report low toxicity, but regular consumption of a shark cartilage supplement was associated with reversible hepatic dysfunction in a 57-year-old man (16). The Federal Trade Commission has barred three manufacturers from making unsubstantiated claims of efficacy for their shark cartilage products. Shark cartilage should not be confused with bovine cartilage.
Purported Uses
- Arthritis
- Cancer prevention
- Cancer treatment
- Colitis
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Glaucoma
- Hemorrhoids
- Immunostimulation
- Inflammation
- Kaposi sarcoma
- Macular degeneration
- Osteoarthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Psoriasis
- Wound healing
Constituents
- Glycoproteins: Sphyrnastatin 1 and 2
- Glycosaminoglycans: Chondroitin sulphate, keratan sulphate
- Calcium salts
- Proteins: Collagen
(1)
Mechanism of Action
The glycoproteins sphyrnastatin 1 and 2 and other unidentified factors (1) are thought responsible for the activity of shark cartilage (SC), which shows strong antiangiogenic activity and inhibition of tumor neovascularization in numerous in vitro and animal studies (17). Theories for its mechanism include interference with endothelial cell migration and adhesion via modification of adhesion protein organization and inhibition of collagenase (18). A more recent study in murine glioma models suggest that induction of t-PA plays an essential role (19). Intraperitoneal administration suppresses sarcoma-180 growth and B16-F10 melanoma metastasis in mice (9) (11), but oral bioavailability is questionable based on the results of mouse models (20). The manufacturers of Neovastat (AE-941), a shark cartilage extract, report that in vitro this formulation inhibits embryonic vascularization (21), endothelial cell proliferation (22), tubulogenesis, VEGF binding to endothelial cells, VEGF-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of the VEGF receptor, and the VEGF-dependent increase in vascular permeability. They also claim that it inhibits serine elastase and matrix metalloproteinase activity (23). Oral administration of Neovastat has produced anti-tumor effects in mouse models (10).
Pharmacokinetics
Large macromolecules such as those associated with the antiangiogenic properties of shark cartilage are not usually absorbed by the intestinal tract and may be digested by proteolytic enzymes in the gut, but studies show that certain large proteins can be absorbed. No bioavailability studies with shark cartilage preparations are published, as it is unclear which active component to look for in the blood (1). A study in humans found a significant decrease in endothelial cell density within an inert subcutaneous implant following oral administration of a liquid shark cartilage extract, giving some support to the oral bioavailability of its antiangiogenic factors (13).
Warnings
- Commercially available supplements contain varying amounts of shark cartilage. Some are composed primarily of fillers and may not have any biological activity.
- Neovastat (AE-941) is a highly purified extract of shark cartilage. It is an investigational new drug and is not available to the general public. Other shark cartilage products may not have similar properties.
Contraindications
Patients with liver disease should use shark cartilage supplements with caution.
Adverse Reactions
Infrequent: Nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, constipation, diarrhea, anorexia, hypoglycemia in a type II diabetic patient (5).
Case Report: A 57-year-old man experienced nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, jaundice, low-grade fever, scleral icterus, and elevated liver function tests after consuming a shark cartilage supplement for 10 weeks. Normal liver function resumed after discontinuation of the supplement (16).
Herb Lab Interactions
Periodic liver function tests should be performed with long-term use.
Literature Summary and Critique
Lu C, Lee JJ, Komaki R, et al. Chemoradiotherapy with or without AE-941 in stage III non-small cell lung cancer: A randomized phase III trial. J Natl Cancer Inst 2010;102:1-7.
In this phase III clinical trial, 379 patients with unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were randomized to receive 120 ml of AE-941 or placebo orally for six years along with chemotherapy (combination of carboplatin and paclitaxel, or cisplatin and vinorelbine). The primary and secondary endpoints were overall survival and time to progression, progression-free survival, tumor response rate, and toxic effects. Addition of AE-941 to standard chemotherapeutic regimens did not affect overall survival nor the secondary endpoints compared with placebo. This study shows that shark cartilage products are not useful for the treatment of NSCLC.
Batist G, et al. Neovastat (AE-941) in refractory renal cell carcinoma patients: Report of a phase II trial with two dose levels. Ann Oncol 2002;13:1259-63.
This was a phase II trial to determine the safety and efficacy of Neovastat (AE-941). Either 60 ml/day or 240 ml/day of Neovastat was given orally to 144 patients with solid tumors refractory to standard treatments. Neovastat seems to be well tolerated by patients at these dose levels. Taste alteration was the most common side effect. However, no dose-limiting toxicity was reported. On the 22 patients with renal cell carcinoma, the high-dose group had significantly longer survival than the low-dose group (16.3 months vs 7.1 months; p=0.01). However, this trial was not randomized. Some patients who started on the lower dose (60 ml/day) were subsequently reassigned to take the higher dose (240 ml/day). The author pointed out that due to the design of the study, no firm conclusions can be drawn on the efficacy of Neovastat.
Dosage (Inside MSKCC Only)
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References
- Ernst E, Cassileth BR. How useful are unconventional cancer treatments? Eur J Cancer. Oct 1999;35(11):1608-1613.
- Leitner SP ea. Two phase II studies of oral dry shark cartilage powder (SCP) with either metastatic breast or prostate cancer refractory to standard treatment. Proc Am Soc Clin Oncol. 1998;17:A240.
- Rosenbluth RJ ea. Oral shark cartilage in the treatment of patients with advanced primary brain tumors. A phase II pilot study. Proc Am Soc Clin Oncol. 1999;18:A554.
- Miller DR, Anderson GT, Stark JJ, et al. Phase I/II trial of the safety and efficacy of shark cartilage in the treatment of advanced cancer. J Clin Oncol. Nov 1998;16(11):3649-3655.
- Batist G, Patenaude F, Champagne P, et al. Neovastat (AE-941) in refractory renal cell carcinoma patients: report of a phase II trial with two dose levels. Ann Oncol. Aug 2002;13(8):1259-1263.
- Hillman JD, Peng AT, Gilliam AC, et al. Treatment of Kaposi sarcoma with oral administration of shark cartilage in a human herpesvirus 8-seropositive, human immunodeficiency virus-seronegative homosexual man. Arch Dermatol. Sep 2001;137(9):1149-1152.
- Sauder DN, Dekoven J, Champagne P, et al. Neovastat (AE-941), an inhibitor of angiogenesis: Randomized phase I/II clinical trial results in patients with plaque psoriasis. J Am Acad Dermatol. Oct 2002;47(4):535-541.
- Sheu JR, Fu CC, Tsai ML, et al. Effect of U-995, a potent shark cartilage-derived angiogenesis inhibitor, on anti-angiogenesis and anti-tumor activities. Anticancer Res. Nov-Dec 1998;18(6A):4435-4441.
- Lee A, Langer R. Shark cartilage contains inhibitors of tumor angiogenesis. Science. Sep 16 1983;221(4616):1185-1187.
- Barber R, Delahunt B, Grebe SK, et al. Oral shark cartilage does not abolish carcinogenesis but delays tumor progression in a murine model. Anticancer Res. Mar-Apr 2001;21(2A):1065-1069.
- Weber MH, Lee J, Orr FW. The effect of Neovastat (AE-941) on an experimental metastatic bone tumor model. Int J Oncol. Feb 2002;20(2):299-303.
- Davis PF, He Y, Furneaux RH, et al. Inhibition of angiogenesis by oral ingestion of powdered shark cartilage in a rat model. Microvasc Res. Sep 1997;54(2):178-182.
- Berbari P, Thibodeau A, Germain L, et al. Antiangiogenic effects of the oral administration of liquid cartilage extract in humans. J Surg Res. Nov 1999;87(1):108-113.
- Loprinzi CL, Levitt R, Barton DL, et al. Evaluation of shark cartilage in patients with advanced cancer: a North Central Cancer Treatment Group trial. Cancer. Jul 1 2005;104(1):176-182.
- Lu C, Lee JJ, Komaki R, et al. Chemoradiotherapy with or without AE-941 in stage III non-small cell lung cancer: a randomized phase III trial. J Natl Cancer Inst. Jun 16 2010;102(12):859-865.
- Ashar B, Vargo E. Shark cartilage-induced hepatitis. Ann Intern Med. Nov 1 1996;125(9):780-781.
- Oikawa T, Ashino-Fuse H, Shimamura M, et al. A novel angiogenic inhibitor derived from Japanese shark cartilage (I). Extraction and estimation of inhibitory activities toward tumor and embryonic angiogenesis. Cancer Lett. Jun 15 1990;51(3):181-186.
- Chen JS, Chang CM, Wu JC, et al. Shark cartilage extract interferes with cell adhesion and induces reorganization of focal adhesions in cultured endothelial cells. J Cell Biochem. Jun 6 2000;78(3):417-428.
- Simard B, Bouamrani A, Jourdes P, et al. Induction of the fibrinolytic system by cartilage extract mediates its antiangiogenic effect in mouse glioma. Microvasc Res. Jul 2011;82(1):6-17.
- Horsman MR, Alsner J, Overgaard J. The effect of shark cartilage extracts on the growth and metastatic spread of the SCCVII carcinoma. Acta Oncol. 1998;37(5):441-445.
- Gingras D, Renaud A, Mousseau N, et al. Shark cartilage extracts as antiangiogenic agents: smart drinks or bitter pills? Cancer Metastasis Rev. 2000;19(1-2):83-86.
- Falardeau P, Champagne P, Poyet P, et al. Neovastat, a naturally occurring multifunctional antiangiogenic drug, in phase III clinical trials. Semin Oncol. Dec 2001;28(6):620-625.
- Gingras D, Renaud A, Mousseau N, et al. Matrix proteinase inhibition by AE-941, a multifunctional antiangiogenic compound. Anticancer Res. Jan-Feb 2001;21(1A):145-155.
Consumer Information
How It Works
Bottom Line: Shark cartilage is not effective in treating cancer.
Since cartilage is a body tissue in which no blood vessels are present, researchers guessed that certain molecules isolated from shark cartilage could inhibit the growth of blood vessels. This action, called anti-angiogenesis, was seen when shark cartilage was directly applied to tumors in a test tube. However, when these extracts were given by mouth (how all over-the-counter shark cartilage supplements are taken), no anti-tumor effect occurred in mice or in humans.
A purified shark cartilage product called Neovastat (AE-941) can reduce tumor size in animals. However, it did not improve survival in lung cancer patients.
Purported Uses
- To treat and prevent cancer
Studies in animals and humans do not support this use.
- To treat Kaposi sarcoma
There is one case report of regression of Kaposi sarcoma in a patient who took low-dose shark cartilage for a prolonged period.
There is no scientific evidence to support the following claims:
- To stimulate the immune system
- To reduce inflammation in conditions such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, hemorrhoids, colitis, and psoriasis
- For faster wound healing
- To reduce bone loss in osteoporosis
- To treat degenerative eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy
Research Evidence
Cancer Treatment
In a study, 379 patients with unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) received 120 ml of AE-941 (shark cartilage product) or placebo, orally for six years along with chemotherapy. Addition of AE-941 to standard chemotherapy did not affect overall survival. This study shows that shark cartilage products are not useful for the treatment of NSCLC.
In another study, 60 ml/day or 240 ml/day of Neovastat was given orally to 144 patients with solid tumors that did not respond to standard treatments. Neovastat seems to be well tolerated by patients at these doses. Taste alteration was the most common side effect. However, this trial was not randomized. More studies are needed.
Do Not Take If
You have a history of liver disease (In one patient, prolonged use of shark cartilage was associated with liver dysfunction, which reversed when supplement use was discontinued).
Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal effects have been reported but are rare: Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) was reported in one patient with type II diabetes.
- Tell your doctor immediately if you develop the following symptoms: fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or yellowing of the whites of the eyes. These may indicate serious liver problems.
Special Point
- Over-the-counter shark cartilage supplements contain varying amounts of shark cartilage. Some are composed mainly of fillers and may not have any biological activity. Furthermore, it is debated whether the large proteins responsible for shark cartilage's activity are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, or whether they are simply digested and rendered useless.
- The Federal Trade Commission has barred three manufacturers from making unsupported health claims for their shark cartilage products.
Last updated: June 14, 2012
administration (ad-MIH-nih-STRAY-shun)
In medicine, the act of giving a treatment, such as a drug, to a patient. It can also refer to the way it is given, the dose, or how often it is given.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)AE-941
A substance made from shark cartilage that is being studied for its ability to prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of antiangiogenesis agent.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)alteration (all-teh-RAY-shun)
A change resulting in something that is different from the original.
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)antiangiogenic (AN-tee-AN-jee-oh-JEH-nik)
Having to do with reducing the growth of new blood vessels.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)antitumor (AN-tee-TOO-mer)
Having to do with stopping abnormal cell growth.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)appetite (A-peh-tite)
A desire to satisfy a physical or mental need, such as for food, sex, or adventure.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)arthritis (ar-THRY-tis)
A disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)biological (BY-oh-LAH-jih-kul)
Pertaining to biology or to life and living things. In medicine, refers to a substance made from a living organism or its products. Biologicals may be used to prevent, diagnose, treat or relieve of symptoms of a disease. For example, antibodies, interleukins, and vaccines are biologicals. Biological also refers to parents and children who are related by blood.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)blood (blud)
A tissue with red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and other substances suspended in fluid called plasma. Blood takes oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, and carries away wastes.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)calcium (KAL-see-um)
A mineral needed for healthy teeth, bones, and other body tissues. It is the most common mineral in the body. A deposit of calcium in body tissues, such as breast tissue, may be a sign of disease.
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)carboplatin (KAR-boh-pla-tin)
A drug that is used to treat advanced ovarian cancer that has never been treated or symptoms of ovarian cancer that has come back after treatment with other anticancer drugs. It is also used with other drugs to treat advanced, metastatic, or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer and is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Carboplatin is a form of the anticancer drug cisplatin and causes fewer side effects in patients. It attaches to DNA in cells and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of platinum compound. Also called Paraplatin.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)carcinoma (KAR-sih-NOH-muh)
Cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)cartilage (KAR-tih-lij)
A tough, flexible tissue that lines joints and gives structure to the nose, ears, larynx, and other parts of the body.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)case report (kays reh-PORT)
A detailed report of the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of an individual patient. Case reports also contain some demographic information about the patient (for example, age, gender, ethnic origin).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)cell (sel)
The individual unit that makes up the tissues of the body. All living things are made up of one or more cells.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)cell proliferation (sel proh-LIH-feh-RAY-shun)
An increase in the number of cells as a result of cell growth and cell division.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)chemotherapy (KEE-moh-THAYR-uh-pee)
Treatment with drugs that kill cancer cells.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)cisplatin (sis-PLA-tin)
A drug used to treat many types of cancer. Cisplatin contains the metal platinum. It kills cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing. Cisplatin is a type of alkylating agent.
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 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)collagenase (KAH-luh-jeh-nays)
A type of enzyme that breaks down the protein collagen.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)constipation (KON-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.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)diabetes (dy-uh-BEE-teez)
Any of several diseases in which the kidneys make a large amount of urine. Diabetes usually refers to diabetes mellitus in which there is also a high level of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood because the body does not make enough insulin or use it the way it should.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)diarrhea (dy-uh-REE-uh)
Frequent and watery bowel movements.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)dietary supplement (DY-uh-TAYR-ee SUH-pleh-ment)
A product that is added to the diet. A dietary supplement is taken by mouth, and usually contains one or more dietary ingredient (such as vitamin, mineral, herb, amino acid, and enzyme). Also called nutritional supplement.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)dose (dose)
The amount of medicine taken, or radiation given, at one time.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)dose-limiting (dose-LIH-mih-ting)
Describes side effects of a drug or other treatment that are serious enough to prevent an increase in dose or level of that treatment.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)drug (drug)
Any substance, other than food, that is used to prevent, diagnose, treat or relieve symptoms of a disease or abnormal condition. Also refers to a substance that alters mood or body function, or that can be habit-forming or addictive, especially a narcotic.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)dysfunction (dis-FUNK-shun)
A state of not functioning normally.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)dyspepsia (dis-PEP-see-uh)
Upset stomach.
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)embryonic (EM-bree-AH-nik)
Having to do with an embryo, which is an early stage in the development of a plant or animal.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)endothelial cell (EN-doh-THEE-lee-ul sel)
The main type of cell found in the inside lining of blood vessels, lymph vessels, and the heart.
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)gastrointestinal (GAS-troh-in-TES-tih-nul)
Refers to the stomach and intestines. Also called GI.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)gastrointestinal tract (GAS-troh-in-TES-tih-nul trakt)
The stomach and intestines. The gastrointestinal tract is part of the digestive system, which also includes the salivary glands, mouth, esophagus, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and rectum.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)glioma (glee-OH-muh)
A cancer of the brain that begins in glial cells (cells that surround and support nerve cells).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)hepatic (heh-PA-tik)
Refers to the liver.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)hypoglycemia (HY-poh-gly-SEE-mee-uh)
Abnormally low blood sugar.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)implant (IM-plant)
A substance or object that is put in the body as a prosthesis, or for treatment or diagnosis.
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)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)intestinal (in-TES-tih-nul)
Having to do with the intestines.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)intraperitoneal (IN-truh-PAYR-ih-toh-NEE-ul)
Within the peritoneal cavity (the area that contains the abdominal organs). Also called IP.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)investigational (in-VES-tih-GAY-shuh-nul)
In clinical trials, refers to a drug (including a new drug, dose, combination, or route of administration) or procedure that has undergone basic laboratory testing and received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be tested in human subjects. A drug or procedure may be approved by the FDA for use in one disease or condition, but be considered investigational in other diseases or conditions. Also called experimental.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)jaundice (JAWN-dis)
A condition in which the skin and the whites of the eyes become yellow, urine darkens, and the color of stool becomes lighter than normal. Jaundice occurs when the liver is not working properly or when a bile duct is blocked.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)Kaposi sarcoma (kuh-POH-zee sar-KOH-muh)
A type of cancer characterized by the abnormal growth of blood vessels that develop into skin lesions or occur internally.
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)lung (lung)
One of a pair of organs in the chest that supplies the body with oxygen, and removes carbon dioxide from the body.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)lung cancer (lung KAN-ser)
Cancer that forms in tissues of the lung, usually in the cells lining air passages. The two main types are small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. These types are diagnosed based on how the cells look under a microscope.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)macular degeneration (MA-kyoo-ler dee-JEH-neh-RAY-shun)
A condition in which there is a slow breakdown of cells in the center of the retina (the light-sensitive layers of nerve tissue at the back of the eye). This blocks vision in the center of the eye and can cause problems with activities such as reading and driving. Macular degeneration is most often seen in people who are over the age of 50. Also called age-related macular degeneration, AMD, and ARMD.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)matrix metalloproteinase (MAY-trix meh-TA-loh-PROH-tee-nays)
A member of a group of enzymes that can break down proteins, such as collagen, that are normally found in the spaces between cells in tissues (i.e., extracellular matrix proteins). Because these enzymes need zinc or calcium atoms to work properly, they are called metalloproteinases. Matrix metalloproteinases are involved in wound healing, angiogenesis, and tumor cell metastasis.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)melanoma (MEH-luh-NOH-muh)
A form of cancer that begins in melanocytes (cells that make the pigment melanin). It may begin in a mole (skin melanoma), but can also begin in other pigmented tissues, such as in the eye or in the intestines.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)metastasis (meh-TAS-tuh-sis)
The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. A tumor formed by cells that have spread is called a “metastatic tumor” or a “metastasis.” The metastatic tumor contains cells that are like those in the original (primary) tumor. The plural form of metastasis is metastases (meh-TAS-tuh-SEEZ).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)metastatic (meh-tuh-STA-tik)
Having to do with metastasis, which is the spread of cancer from the primary site (place where it started) to other places in the body.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)ml
A measure of volume in the metric system. One thousand mls equal one liter. Also called cc, cubic centimeter, and milliliter.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)nausea (NAW-zee-uh)
A feeling of sickness or discomfort in the stomach that may come with an urge to vomit. Nausea is a side effect of some types of cancer therapy.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)non-small cell lung cancer (... sel lung KAN-ser)
A group of lung cancers that are named for the kinds of cells found in the cancer and how the cells look under a microscope. The three main types of non-small cell lung cancer are squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common kind of lung cancer.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)oral (OR-ul)
By or having to do with the mouth.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)osteoporosis (OS-tee-oh-puh-ROH-sis)
A condition that is marked by a decrease in bone mass and density, causing bones to become fragile.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)over-the-counter (OH-ver-the-KOWN-ter)
A medicine that can be bought without a prescription (doctor's order). Examples include analgesics (pain relievers) such as aspirin and acetaminophen. Also called nonprescription and OTC.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)paclitaxel (PA-klih-TAK-sil)
A drug used to treat breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma. It is also used together with another drug to treat non-small cell lung cancer. Paclitaxel is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It blocks cell growth by stopping cell division and may kill cancer cells. It is a type of antimitotic agent. Also called Taxol.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)phase II trial (fayz … TRY-ul)
A study to test whether a new treatment has an anticancer effect (for example, whether it shrinks a tumor or improves blood test results) and whether it works against a certain type of cancer.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)phosphorylation (fos-FOR-ih-LAY-shun)
A process in which a phosphate group is added to a molecule, such as a sugar or a protein.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)placebo (pluh-SEE-boh)
An inactive substance or treatment that looks the same as, and is given the same way as, an active drug or treatment being tested. The effects of the active drug or treatment are compared to the effects of the placebo.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)progression (pruh-GREH-shun)
In medicine, the course of a disease, such as cancer, as it becomes worse or spreads in the body.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)progression-free survival (pruh-GREH-shun ... ser-VY-vul)
The length of time during and after the treatment of a disease, such as cancer, that a patient lives with the disease but it does not get worse. In a clinical trial, measuring the progression-free survival is one way to see how well a new treatment works. Also called PFS.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)protein (PROH-teen)
A molecule made up of amino acids that are needed for the body to function properly. Proteins are the basis of body structures such as skin and hair and of substances such as enzymes, cytokines, and antibodies.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)psoriasis (suh-RY-uh-sis)
A chronic disease of the skin marked by red patches covered with white scales.
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)receptor (reh-SEP-ter)
A molecule inside or on the surface of a cell that binds to a specific substance and causes a specific physiologic effect in the cell.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)refractory (reh-FRAK-tor-ee)
In medicine, describes a disease or condition that does not respond to treatment.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)regression (reh-GREH-shun)
A decrease in the size of a tumor or in the extent of cancer in the body.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(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)sarcoma (sar-KOH-muh)
A cancer of the bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)side effect (side eh-FEKT)
A problem that occurs when treatment affects healthy tissues or organs. Some common side effects of cancer treatment are fatigue, pain, nausea, vomiting, decreased blood cell counts, hair loss, and mouth sores.
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)stage (stayj)
The extent of a cancer in the body. Staging is usually based on the size of the tumor, whether lymph nodes contain cancer, and whether the cancer has spread from the original site to other parts of the body.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)stomach (STUH-muk)
An organ that is part of the digestive system. The stomach helps digest food by mixing it with digestive juices and churning it into a thin liquid.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)subcutaneous (SUB-kyoo-TAY-nee-us)
Beneath the skin.
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)toxic (TOK-sik)
Having to do with poison or something harmful to the body. Toxic substances usually cause unwanted side effects.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)toxicity (tok-SIH-sih-tee)
The extent to which something is poisonous or harmful.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)tumor (TOO-mer)
An abnormal mass of tissue that results when cells divide more than they should or do not die when they should. Tumors may be benign (not cancer), or malignant (cancer). Also called neoplasm.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)unresectable (UN-ree-SEK-tuh-bul)
Unable to be removed with surgery.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)VEGF
A substance made by cells that stimulates new blood vessel formation. Also called vascular endothelial growth factor.
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)wound (woond)
A break in the skin or other body tissues caused by injury or surgical incision (cut).
Source: The National Cancer Institute's Dictionary of Cancer Terms
(http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary)
