Glossary

A type of hormonal therapy that blocks the enzyme aromatase, reducing estrogen levels. Examples include anastrozole (Arimidex), letrozole (Femara), and exemestane (Aromasin).

A procedure where a small sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to check for cancer or determine its characteristics.

Cancer that has spread to the bones. May cause pain, fractures, or elevated calcium levels.

Drugs like bisphosphonates or denosumab that help strengthen bones and reduce complications from bone metastases.

Targeted drugs that block proteins called CDK4 and CDK6, which help cancer cells grow. Examples include palbociclib (Ibrance), ribociclib (Kisqali), and abemaciclib (Verzenio).

Treatment using drugs that kill rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. It travels through the bloodstream to reach cancer throughout the body.

A research study that tests new treatments or new ways of using existing treatments. Trials help advance cancer care and may offer access to promising new therapies.

When all signs of cancer disappear after treatment. In metastatic cancer, this doesn't necessarily mean the cancer is cured.

A treatment period followed by a rest period. For example, chemotherapy may be given every 3 weeks—that's one cycle.

Extreme tiredness that doesn't improve with rest. One of the most common side effects of cancer and its treatment.

Cancer cells that have higher than normal levels of HER2 protein on their surface. These cancers may respond to targeted therapies that block HER2.

Treatment that blocks or lowers hormones (estrogen/progesterone) to slow or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive cancers.

Cancer cells that have receptors for estrogen and/or progesterone hormones, which fuel their growth. These cancers may respond to hormonal therapy.

Treatment that helps your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Used for certain types of breast cancer.

When medication is delivered directly into a vein through an IV. Some cancer treatments are given this way.

The spread of cancer cells from the original tumor to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Breast cancer that has spread from the breast to other parts of the body, such as bones, liver, lungs, or brain. Also called stage IV or advanced breast cancer.

Nerve damage that can cause numbness, tingling, or pain, usually in the hands and feet. Can be a side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs.

A low level of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), which can increase infection risk. A common side effect of some cancer treatments.

A nurse who helps guide patients through the healthcare system, coordinates care, and connects patients with resources and support.

A doctor who specializes in treating cancer. A medical oncologist treats cancer with medications; a radiation oncologist uses radiation therapy.

Specialized care focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. It can be provided alongside active cancer treatment and is NOT the same as hospice care.

Targeted drugs that block PARP enzymes, making it harder for cancer cells with BRCA mutations to repair their DNA. Examples include olaparib and talazoparib.

When tumors shrink in size but haven't completely disappeared.

When cancer grows, spreads, or gets worse. 'Progression-free survival' refers to the time during and after treatment when cancer doesn't grow.

Imaging tests used to see inside the body. CT scans use X-rays, PET scans show metabolic activity, and MRI uses magnetic fields. Used to detect and monitor cancer.

When cancer has not grown significantly or spread to new areas. This is often a goal of treatment for metastatic cancer.

Drugs that target specific features of cancer cells (like HER2 or CDK4/6 proteins) while causing less damage to normal cells than chemotherapy.

Cancer that tests negative for estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2. It doesn't respond to hormonal therapy or HER2-targeted drugs.

Substances in the blood that may indicate cancer activity. Common markers for breast cancer include CA 15-3 and CA 27-29. They're used to monitor response to treatment.