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DICTIONARY OF TERMS A guide for patients, families & whānau
ii
INTRODUCTION
This booklet has been written to help you and your family/whānau understand many of
the medical terms you may come across.
If you or someone you care for has been Some people may require more information
diagnosed with a blood cancer or condition, than is contained in this booklet. There is
you may be feeling overwhelmed, upset a range of disease-specific information
or anxious. This is normal. Perhaps you booklets available from Leukaemia & Blood
have already started treatment, or you Cancer New Zealand (LBC). These can be
are discussing different treatment options found on the LBC website, leukaemia.org.nz,
with your doctor and your family/whānau. or by contacting an LBC Support Services
Whatever stage you are at, we hope that the Coordinator on 0800 15 10 15.
information contained in this booklet is useful
in answering some of your questions. It may It is not the intention of this booklet
raise other questions, which you should to recommend any particular form of
discuss with your health care team. treatment to you. You need to discuss
your circumstances with your doctor and
treatment team.
Interpreter service Informed consent
New Zealand’s Code of Health and Disability If you are supporting a family/whānau
states that everyone has the right to have an member who needs language support at
interpreter present when they go to a medical appointments, your doctor may ask an
appointment. If a patient and their health care interpreter to join meetings where informed
professional do not speak the same language, consent is required. Interpreters are specially
a family/whānau member or friend may trained to explain medical information clearly.
assist. The hospital can organise a trained
interpreter if needed, either in person or
through a telephone interpreter service. NZ
Sign Language interpreters are also available.iii
CONTENTS
About Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) 1
LBC office locations 2
List of abbreviations 3
Common drug and treatment abbreviations 5
Haematology definitions 6
Appendix A 37
Appendix B 38
Acknowledgements 39
Questions and notes 39
Haematology centres in NZ 40
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand1 About Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand
ABOUT LEUKAEMIA & BLOOD CANCER
NEW ZEALAND
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) is the only not-for-profit organisation
in New Zealand dedicated to providing care, and supporting research for a cure, for
people living with blood cancer and serious blood conditions.
LBC is committed to improving the quality of Based on Ministry of Health data, LBC
life for our patients and their families/whānau. estimates that close to 21,000 people live
LBC provides patient support services, funds with blood cancer in New Zealand.
research, provides the latest information,
helps raise awareness, and advocates for LBC has support centres in Auckland,
patients and their families/whānau. Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and
Dunedin, and our team travels to other parts
LBC provides individualised support to of New Zealand regularly.
patients, runs support programmes for adults
and children, facilitates education sessions, Website
and provides emergency financial assistance. leukaemia.org.nz
Eight Kiwis – adults and children – are Nationwide Phone number
diagnosed with a blood cancer each day. 0800 15 10 15Locations 2
LOCATIONS
Northern Region/Head Office Upper Southern Region
6 Claude Road 20 Cashel Street
Epsom Christchurch City
Auckland, 1023 Christchurch, 8013
PO Box 99182 PO Box 36278
Newmarket Merivale
Auckland, 1149 Christchurch, 8146
Midland Region Lower Southern Region
27 Pembroke Street 218 George Street
Hamilton, 3204 Dunedin 9016
PO Box 4317 PO Box 5238
Hamilton East Dunedin 9054
Hamilton, 3247
Central Region
9-11 Riddiford Street
Newtown
Wellington, 6021
PO Box 16154
Newtown
Wellington, 6242
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand3 List of abbreviations
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
AA – Aplastic anaemia DX – Diagnosis
ALL – Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia EBV – Epstein-Barr virus
AML – Acute myeloid leukaemia ECG – Electrocardiogram
APL (or APML) – Acute promyelocytic leukaemia ECHO – Echocardiogram
ATG – Anti-thymocyte globulin EEG – Electroencephalogram
BJP – Bence-Jones protein ESR – Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
BMT – Bone marrow transplant ET – Essential thrombocythaemia
BP – Blood pressure FBC – Full blood count
CAR T-cell – Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell FLC – Free light chains
CBC – Complete blood count FNA – Fine needle aspiration
CLL – Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia G-CSF – Granulocyte-colony stimulating
factor
CML – Chronic myeloid leukaemia
GvHD – Graft-versus-host disease
CMML – Chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia
GvL – Graft-versus-leukaemia
CMV – Cytomegalovirus
HEPA – High-efficiency particulate air
CNS – Central nervous system
HL – Hodgkin lymphoma
CRP – C-reactive protein
HLA – Human leukocyte antigen
CSF – Cerebrospinal fluid
HR – Heart rate
CT/CAT – Computed tomography/computed
assisted tomography (scan) HSCT – Haematopoietic stem cell
transplantation
CVC/CVAD – Central venous catheter/central
venous access device HTLV – Human T lymphotropic virus
DLBCL – Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma ICU – Intensive care unit
DNA – Deoxyribonucleic acid IM – Intramuscular (injection)
DVT – Deep vein thrombosis INR – International normalised ratioList of abbreviations 4
IT – Intrathecal (injection) PRCA – Pure red cell aplasia
ITP – Immune thrombocytopenia PV – Polycythaemia vera
IV – Intravenous (injection/infusion) RBC – Red blood cell
LDH – Lactate dehydrogenase RIC – Reduced-intensity chemotherapy
LFT – Liver function test RNA – Ribonucleic acid
MBL – Monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis SCID – Severe combined immunodeficiency
disease
MDS – Myelodysplastic syndromes
SCT – Stem cell transplant
MDT – Multidisciplinary team
SFLC – Serum free light chain
MF – Myelofibrosis
TBI – Total body irradiation
MGUS – Monoclonal gammopathy of
undetermined significance UTI – Urinary tract infection
MPN – Myeloproliferative neoplasms VOD – Veno-occlusive disease
MRD – Minimal/measureable residual disease VWD – Von Willebrand disease
MRI – Magnetic resonance imaging WBC – White blood cell
MUD – Matched unrelated donor WM – Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia
NG – Nasogastric ZIG – Zoster immune globulin
NHL – Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
NMAT – Non-myeloablative allogeneic
transplant
PCR – Polymerase chain reaction
PCV – Packed cell volume
PET – Positron emission tomography (scan)
PICC – Peripherally inserted central catheter
PMF – Primary myelofibrosis
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand5 Common drug and treatment abbreviations
COMMON DRUG AND
TREATMENT ABBREVIATIONS
ABVD – Doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, ICE – Ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide
dacarbazine
KCD – Carfilzomib, cyclophosphamide,
Ara-C – Cytarabine (also known as cytosine dexamethasone
arabinoside)
MTX – Methotrexate
BEACOPP – Bleomycin, etoposide,
doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, R – Rituximab
procarbazine, prednisone
R-CHOP – Rituximab, cyclophosphamide,
BR – Bendamustine, rituximab (often referred doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone
to as R-Bendamustine)
RVd – Lenalidomide (Revlimid), bortezomib
CSA – Cyclosporin (Velcade), dexamethasone
CTD – Cyclophosphamide, thalidomide, VMP – Bortezomib, melphalan, prednisone
dexamethasone
VTD – Bortezomib, thalidomide,
CyBorDex – Cyclophosphamide, bortezomib dexamethasone
(Velcade), dexamethasone
This is only a selection of common treatment
EPOCH – Etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, plans used in haematology. You may be
cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin offered other treatments or altered treatment
regimens that are specific to you. If you have
FCR – Fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, any questions about your treatment options,
rituximab it is best to discuss this with your doctor.
GDP – Gemcitabine, dexamethasone,
cisplatinHaematology definitions 6
HAEMATOLOGY DEFINITIONS
Acute – A disease with an abrupt onset and, Aetiology – The factors that contribute to
usually, a short course. Often requires a disease developing, e.g. environmental
urgent treatment. factors such as infections and radiation. An
example is “the aetiology of some leukaemias
Acute leukaemia – A rapidly progressing is benzene exposure”.
cancer of the blood. Usually of sudden onset
and characterised by the uncontrolled growth Alkylating agent – A type of chemotherapy
of immature blood cells, which take over the drug that interacts with genetic material
bone marrow and spill into the bloodstream. (DNA) to prevent division of the cells. Drugs
If left untreated, acute leukaemia may be fatal of this type include busulphan, chlorambucil,
within a few weeks or months. cyclophosphamide and melphalan.
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) – Allogeneic stem cell transplant – Transplant
A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood using blood stem cells collected from a
affecting the type of white blood cells that matched healthy donor, usually a brother or
produce lymphocytes. ALL is the most sister. See the LBC website for a booklet on
common form of childhood leukaemia and can allogeneic stem cell transplants.
also occur in adults. See the LBC website for
booklets on ALL in children and ALL in adults. Allopurinol – A drug used to prevent high
levels of uric acid in the body, including
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) – A rapidly the increase caused by certain cancer
progressing cancer of the blood affecting medications. High levels of uric acid may
immature cells of the bone marrow, which cause gout, kidney stones or renal failure.
normally produce neutrophils, red cells and
platelets. AML is more common in adults than Alopecia – Loss of hair. Usually temporary
in children. See the LBC website for a booklet when due to chemotherapy or radiotherapy
on AML. treatment.
Acute promyelocytic leukaemia Amyloidosis – The general term given to a
(APL or APML) – A malignancy of the bone relatively rare and serious group of disorders
marrow in which there is a deficiency of in which an abnormal protein forms deposits
mature blood cells in the myeloid line of of proteins in tissues such as the heart and
cells and an excess of immature cells called kidneys.
promyelocytes. APL is a rare subtype of AML
and accounts for only 10% of all AML diagnoses. Anaemia – A reduction in the haemoglobin
Also known as promyelocytic leukaemia. level in the blood, often associated with a
reduction in the number of red blood cells.
Adenosine deaminase inhibitors – A group of Haemoglobin carries oxygen to all the
drugs that act mainly by inhibiting the production body’s tissues. Anaemia can cause tiredness,
of DNA in the lymphoid cells (e.g. fludarabine). paleness and sometimes shortness of breath.
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand7 Haematology definitions
Anorexia – Lack or loss of appetite for food. Antimetabolites – A group of chemotherapy
drugs that prevent cells growing and dividing
Anthracyclines – A group of chemotherapy by blocking the chemical reactions required
drugs used to prevent cell division by to produce DNA. Drugs of this type include
disrupting the structure of DNA. Drugs of mercaptopurine, azathioprine, thioguanine,
this type include daunorubicin and and methotrexate.
doxorubicin (Adriamycin).
Anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) – Antibodies
Antibiotics – Drugs that kill or stop the obtained by immunising horses or rabbits
growth of bacteria, e.g. penicillin. with human white cells called T-lymphocytes
(T-cells). These antibodies are collected from
Antibodies – Naturally produced substances
the animals and purified into ATG, which is
in the blood, made by white blood cells
used to treat some haematology conditions.
called B-lymphocytes or B-cells. Antibodies
target antigens or foreign or abnormal Anxiety – An ongoing worry or concern
substances such as bacteria, viruses and about something that doesn’t go away.
some cancer cells and cause their destruction Feelings of worry that a person does not
or removal. seem to be able to control, or seem greater
than they should feel in a situation.
Antiemetic – A drug that prevents or
reduces nausea and vomiting (feeling and Apheresis – Method of collecting blood via
being sick), which may be a side effect of an intravenous catheter into an apheresis
some chemotherapy drugs. There are many machine. The blood is then separated into
different types of antiemetic drugs. Two its liquid and cellular components. The cells
common antiemetic drugs used to reduce required are collected and unneeded blood
nausea and vomiting are metoclopramide components are infused back into the donor.
(Maxolon) and ondansetron (Zofran). Used for collecting platelets, plasma and
stem cells, can also be used therapeutically to
Antigen – Any substance (usually a protein),
remove leukocytes.
including those on the surface of a foreign
body such as a virus or bacteria, that Aplastic anaemia – A rare blood condition
stimulates an immune response, such as the that occurs when bone marrow stops
formation of an antibody or the activation of producing enough new blood cells. The word
specific cells. ‘aplastic’ means the body’s inability to create
new cells. See the LBC website for a fact
Antihistamines – Drugs given to reduce
sheet on aplastic anaemia.
histamine levels, which are produced in some
allergic reactions. Drugs of this type include Apoptosis – A form of cell death in which a
promethazine (Phenergan). programmed sequence of events leads to
the death of cells. Apoptosis plays a crucial
role in developing and maintaining health
by eliminating old, unnecessary and
unhealthy cells.Haematology definitions 8
Audiogram – A hearing test charted for Benign – Non-cancerous. Such a growth
different frequencies. Useful for the early may or may not need to be surgically
detection of deafness from various causes removed. This depends on its size and
including drug toxicity to the eardrum. position in the body.
Autoimmune disease – A group of diseases Benzene – A colourless, toxic liquid
caused by an individual’s immune system hydrocarbon that is widely used as a solvent,
producing antibodies against their own also a natural part of crude oil, gasoline and
tissues (known as autoantibodies). Examples cigarette smoke. Benzene exposure is a
include some haemolytic anaemias, immune known risk factor for some blood cancers.
thrombocytopenia, rheumatoid arthritis and
systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus). Biopsy – A small sample of fresh tissue, e.g.
lymph node or bone marrow, removed for
Autologous stem cell transplant – Transplant laboratory analysis to establish the exact
using stem cells or bone marrow collected diagnosis, or to monitor treatment response.
from the patient’s own blood or bone
marrow that has been stored after intensive Bisphosphonates – A group of drugs
treatment. See the LBC website for a booklet commonly used to treat and prevent
on autologous stem cell transplants. osteoporosis and myeloma bone disease.
These drugs work by protecting the bone
Bacteria – Microscopic organisms that surfaces from the action of osteoclasts, cells
cause many infections, e.g. pneumonia. normally involved in bone breakdown.
The presence of bacteria (even normally
harmless bacteria) on the skin or in the Blast cells – Immature cells known as
mouth can result in serious illness if you have precursor cells or stem cells. Blasts give rise
a compromised immune system. to all kinds of different specialised cells,
e.g. blood cells come from blasts in the
Basophil – A type of white blood cell bone marrow.
involved in allergic and inflammatory
reactions, normally present in low numbers in Blast crisis – The phase of a chronic
the blood. Basophils work with neutrophils to condition that has transformed into an
fight infection. acute condition, e.g. when chronic myeloid
leukaemia progresses to acute leukaemia.
BCR-ABL1 gene – See Philadelphia (Ph) This can result in a very high number of
chromosome. immature, abnormal white blood cells (blasts)
in the bone marrow and blood.
Bence-Jones protein (BJP) – A small protein or
immunoglobulin light chain made by plasma Blood cancer – Haematology cancers are
cells that may be found in the urine. Detection also called blood cancers. Although blood
of BJP may be suggestive of myeloma or cancers are often diagnosed in the blood,
Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Testing for they usually originate from the bone marrow.
BJP has been largely superseded by the free
light chains (FLC) test.
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand9 Haematology definitions
Blood cells – There are three main types Blood stem cells – The most primitive cells in
of cells in the bloodstream: red blood cells, the bone marrow from which all the various
which carry oxygen; white blood cells, types of blood cells develop. In Figure 01 you
which fight infection; and platelets, which can see the blood stem cell has divided to
help prevent bleeding. create the different blood cells that function
in our body.
Blood count – Also called a full blood
count (FBC) or complete blood count B-lymphocyte – A type of white blood
(CBC). A routine blood test that measures cell normally involved in the production of
the number and types of cells circulating in antibodies to combat infection. Also called
the blood. B-cells.
Figure Blood stem cell
01
The cells Myeloid stem cell Lymphoid stem cell
created
from blood
stem cells
Myeloid Blast cell Lymphoid blast cell
Red Cell Platelet White cell Natural Killer cell T-Lymphocyte B-Lymphocyte
KEY This indicates the different cells where abnormalities occur causing the different leukemiasHaematology definitions 10
Heavy Light
Blood stem cell
chain chain
Bone marrow – The tissue found at the sedation, and incorporates either or both of
centre of many flat or big bones of the the following:
body, e.g. the breastbone (sternum), thigh Aspirate
•Myeloid stem cell– A procedure that involves
Lymphoid stem cell
bone (femur) and hip bone (iliac crest). Bone removing (or aspirating) a small sample of
marrow contains stem cells from which all bone marrow fluid for examination in the
blood cells are made. laboratory.
• Trephine – A procedure that involves
Bone marrow biopsy – A procedure to Myeloid blast cell Lymphoid blast cell
removing a small core of bone and
collect a sample of the bone marrow, usually
bone marrow for examination in the
taken from the back of the hip bone (iliac
laboratory. It is used to assess bone
crest of the pelvis) or occasionally from the
marrow structure, and the number and
breastbone (sternum). This procedure is done
distribution of all the blood cell types.
under local anaesthetic, with or without light
Red Cell Platelet White cell T-lymphocyte B-lymphocyte
Heavy Light
chain chain
Figure 4: Immunoglobulin structure Figure 2: The cells created from blood stem cells
Figure
02
Bone marrow
sample being taken
bone
from the pelvic bone
bone marrow
biopsy needle
skin
Figure 5: Bone marrow sample being taken from the pelvic bone
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand11 Haematology definitions
Bone marrow transplant (BMT) – See Stem Cannula – A plastic tube inserted into a
cell transplant. vein, usually in the hand or arm, to allow
fluid to enter the bloodstream, such as an
Bowel – Also known as intestines or guts. intravenous (IV) infusion.
After the stomach has finished processing
food that has been eaten, it goes into the Carcinogen – A substance that may have the
small intestine (small bowel), which absorbs ability to cause developing cells to become
nutrients that the body needs. What is left cancerous, e.g. tobacco smoke and asbestos.
after this moves into the large intestine (large For many people with cancer, a specific
bowel) and eventually moves out of the carcinogen is not known.
body as waste, known as a bowel motion
(commonly known as poo). See appendix A Carcinogenesis – The process by which
on page 37 for an image showing the small normal, healthy cells transform into cancer
and large intestines. cells. Also called oncogenesis.
Brachytherapy – A means of delivering Cardiac – Related to the heart.
radiotherapy directly to a tumour by an
CAR T-cell therapy – A treatment for
implanted tube. It avoids the use of external
lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
beams of radiation and often allows stronger
(ALL) and other blood cancers in which the
local treatment without an increase in toxicity
patient’s T-cells are genetically engineered
to surrounding organs.
and infused into the bloodstream, where they
Burkitt lymphoma – A rapidly growing type attack and kill the cancer cells.
of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It develops when
Catheter – A hollow tube inserted into
B-lymphocytes (B-cells) become abnormal.
organs of the body for instilling or removing
Burkitt lymphoma requires immediate
gases or liquids, e.g. a urinary catheter is used
treatment and may present as a type of
to remove urine from the bladder.
leukaemia (Burkitt leukaemia).
CD34 cells – Cells with the specific ‘CD34’
Cancer – Disease caused by abnormal cells
protein in their membrane, including blood
growing in an uncontrolled way, creating
stem cells, which are involved in a transplant.
a tumour, invading nearby tissues and/or
A CD34 count is used to measure a patient’s
spreading through the blood and lymph
readiness to have cells collected after
systems. Also called malignant disease or
mobilisation.
neoplasia.
Cell biology – The study of the structure,
Candida – A type of yeast infection or fungus
composition and function of cells.
that grows out of control in moist skin areas
of the body, such as the mouth. It is usually Cell markers – Usually proteins or antigens
the result of a weakened immune system on the cell surface that distinguish and
but can be a side effect of chemotherapy or discriminate between different cell types.
treatment with antibiotics. Also called thrush. Cell markers are like flags stuck to theHaematology definitions 12
outside of a cell, which can be analysed in Chemoimmunotherapy – A treatment
the laboratory using sophisticated analysers plan that uses both chemotherapy and
called flow cytometers. This technique is also immunotherapy drugs. By combining
called immunophenotyping. chemotherapy with immunotherapy, the
effectiveness of each drug is improved.
Cells – The smallest structural and functional Various combinations of chemotherapy and
unit of an organism. They are only visible immunotherapy are in use.
through a microscope.
Chemotherapy – Single drugs or
Central nervous system (CNS) – The brain combinations of drugs that may be used to
and spinal cord. kill and prevent the growth and division of
cancer cells. Although aimed at the cancer
Central nervous system (CNS) leukaemia –
cells, chemotherapy often affects rapidly
Leukaemic cells have been found in the CNS
dividing normal cells and this is responsible
(brain and/or spinal cord). This can often be
for some unwanted side effects. Most of the
diagnosed by examination of cerebrospinal
side effects of chemotherapy are usually
fluid obtained by a lumbar puncture.
temporary and reversible.
Central venous catheter/line (CVC) – Also
known as central venous access device
(CVAD). A plastic tube inserted through the
skin into a major blood vessel in the chest Figure
or neck. Used for patients undergoing
intensive therapy and provides a route for
taking blood samples and administering
03
Central line
drugs and other treatments without repeated placement
needle punctures into the patient’s arm.
It may have one or multiple tubes (called
lumens). Different manufacturing companies
produce these devices. Examples include Central line inserted
into chest here
the Groshong catheter, Hickman catheter,
Line tunnelled
apheresis catheter and portacath. under skin
Line comes
out here
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) – Fluid that Heart
surrounds and protects the brain and spinal
cord. Samples can be obtained by lumbar
puncture, and chemotherapy also can be
injected by the same route to prevent or
treat some blood diseases that can invade
the central nervous system, such as acute
lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand13 Haematology definitions
Chemotherapy cycle – Chemotherapy is Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) – A type
usually given in cycles, with chemotherapy of leukaemia that affects the myeloid blood
drugs given for a predetermined number of cells that are made in the bone marrow.
days, followed by a recovery period. In people with CML, the bone marrow
The purpose of the recovery period between produces too many white blood cells called
cycles of chemotherapy drugs is to allow granulocytes. CML usually develops slowly
the recovery of the normal cells in the bone during the early stages of disease. See the
marrow, i.e. red blood cells, white blood LBC website for a booklet on CML.
cells and platelets, before giving further
chemotherapy to eradicate remaining Chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML)
cancer cells. – A form of myelodysplasia characterised by
an increase in the number of circulating white
Chromosomes – The human body is blood cells known as monocytes. People
made up of cells. Inside most cells are with CMML may develop problems with
chromosomes which, under the infection or bleeding and in some cases it
microscope, look like threads. Each thread may transform into acute leukaemia.
contains hundreds to thousands of genes.
Genes determine things like hair and eye Clinical trial – A controlled and carefully
colour and how the body develops. Each monitored assessment of new forms of
person has 23 pairs of chromosomes (half treatment subject to ethical approval. Trials
from your mother and the other half from can vary in design and size from small-scale
your father). trials of experimental treatments to large
international trials that compare subtle
Chronic – An illness or disease that persists variations in current therapies. Patients will be
for a long time or is constantly recurring. informed and will always be given the option
to join or not, without detriment to their
Chronic leukaemia – A persistent cancer usual treatment if they decline to participate.
of the blood, usually of gradual onset Likewise, patients can opt out of a clinical trial
and generally of slow progression. May at any time. See the LBC website for a fact
be diagnosed by chance following a sheet on clinical trials.
routine blood test and before clinical
symptoms appear. Clotting factors – Components of plasma
(factors I to XIII) that are involved in the clotting
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) – of blood. Also called coagulation factor.
A slowly progressing form of leukaemia
characterised by an increased number of Coagulation – Clotting of the blood.
lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). It
is the most common form of leukaemia and Combination therapy – A treatment modality
occurs predominantly in late middle age that combines two or more drugs, e.g.
onwards. People may live with this condition chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs are given
for many years before needing treatment, that work by different mechanisms, which target
or between treatment cycles. See the LBC the cancer cells in different ways. This approach
website for a booklet on CLL. produces a greater cell death and decreases the
possibility of tumour drug resistance.Haematology definitions 14
Complementary therapies – Therapies C-reactive protein (CRP) – A protein released
used alongside medical treatment that help by the liver in response to inflammation in the
a person cope and feel better with their body. The level of CRP may be elevated in
diagnosis and treatment, e.g. massage, yoga. some conditions.
Complete remission – The disappearance of Creatinine – A waste product of muscle
all signs of cancer in response to treatment. breakdown normally excreted by the
kidneys. The level of creatinine in the
Computed tomography scan (CT scan) – A blood will be raised if the kidneys are not
body scanning or imaging technique using functioning properly.
X-rays that produces a series of detailed
three-dimensional (3D) images of cross Cure – This means that there is no evidence
sections of the body. of disease and no sign of the disease
reappearing, even many years later.
Congenital – A term used to describe
deformities or diseases that are present at the Cyclosporin (CSA) – A drug used to prevent
time of birth. and treat rejection and graft-versus-host
disease (GvHD) in allogeneic stem cell
Consolidation treatment – A course of transplant patients by suppressing the
treatment with anticancer drugs given to the normal immune system. Also used in aplastic
patient while in remission with the aim of anaemia and other autoimmune conditions.
killing any remaining cancerous cells.
Cytogenetics – The study of the structure
Cord blood – Found in the umbilical cord of chromosomes. Cytogenetic tests are
and the placenta. This is a valuable source of commonly carried out on samples of
stem cells for paediatric patients undergoing blood and bone marrow taken to detect
allogeneic stem cell transplants. These can be chromosomal abnormalities associated
frozen and stored for future use by the donor with a disease. These tests help in the
or a matched recipient. diagnosis and selection of optimal treatment.
Results can be delayed because the cells
Corticosteroids (steroids) – A group of
may need to be grown for days in a test tube
synthetic hormones, including prednisone,
before analysis.
prednisolone, methylprednisolone and
dexamethasone, used in the treatment of Cytokines – Chemicals excreted by the cells
some leukaemias, lymphomas, myeloma, in the immune system to communicate with
autoimmune conditions and other bone other cells during the coordination of the
marrow diseases. They are also used to body’s immune response.
suppress graft rejection and graft-versus-
host disease (GvHD) following stem cell Cytomegalovirus (CMV) – A virus that is
transplants. Side effects may include an usually harmless in healthy people but may
increased risk of infection, hypertension, cause serious infection in immunosuppressed
high blood glucose levels, weight gain patients. This can be particularly dangerous
and sometimes thinning of the bones following a stem cell transplant.
(osteoporosis) with longer-term use.
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand15 Haematology definitions
Cytopenia – A reduction in the number of Differentiation – The gradual maturation
cells circulating in the blood. (ageing) of a cell whereby its function and
properties become increasingly specialised,
Cytoplasm – The cellular substance outside usually associated with increased function and
the nucleus of each cell. Plasma cells are specialisation. Leukaemia cells are often poorly
named as such because they contain a lot of differentiated, that is, they show immature
cytoplasm. characteristics. The more a cell is differentiated,
usually the less able it is to divide.
Cytotoxic drugs – Anticancer drugs that act
by killing or preventing the division of cells. Digestive system – The system in the body
that deals with food and digestion, beginning
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – A blood clot
at the mouth and ending at the anus. Turns
in a deep vein, usually in the thigh or calf.
food and fluids into fuel for the body.
Deletion – A chromosome abnormality in
Disease progression – Disease advancement,
which a part of the chromosome has been lost.
or worsening, despite treatment.
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) – The cell’s
Diuretic – Drugs that increase the production
hereditary material that contains instructions
of urine by the kidneys. These are sometimes
for development, growth and reproduction.
used during chemotherapy or with a blood
DNA is located in nearly every cell of the
transfusion to prevent fluid overload, to treat
human body. DNA provides the essential
heart or kidney failure, or to increase kidney
building block for storing genetic material
flow. May be used during chemotherapy to
in ‘tapes’ or chromosomes. There are four
assist with the excretion of anticancer drugs.
different chemical compounds of DNA
(bases) arranged in coded sequence as Donor lymphocyte infusion – The giving of
genes that determine an individual’s inherited lymphocytes from the donor of an allogeneic
characteristics. stem cell transplant. This is sometimes used
to treat disease that has relapsed following a
Depletion – A laboratory procedure for
stem cell transplant.
reducing the number of specific cell
types within bone marrow donated for Echocardiogram (ECHO) – Ultrasound scan
transplantation, e.g. the removal of some of the heart.
types of lymphocytes to avoid rejection or
graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) particularly Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Electrical trace of
in unrelated donor stem cell transplants. the heart.
Diagnosis – The identification and naming of Electroencephalogram (EEG) – Electrical
a person’s disease. brain recording.
Diaphragm – The layer of muscle under Electrolytes – Various salts in the blood, e.g.
the ribs that divides the stomach and the sodium and potassium). Measurement helps
abdomen from the chest cavity, and assists to monitor kidney function.
with breathing. See appendix A on page 37
for an image of the diaphragm.Haematology definitions 16
Embolus – A blood clot that starts in the leg the bottom of the test tube. ESR increases in
or other distant vein or artery, which breaks inflammation and infection and in diseases
loose only to lodge elsewhere in the body where antibodies are increased, such as
and block blood supply, e.g. a clot in a vein myeloma. An abnormal ESR may indicate
may cause a problem in the lung (called a certain forms of cancer, autoimmune disease
pulmonary embolism). or infection.
Engraftment – The process by which Erythroleukaemia – A rare subtype of acute
transplanted or transfused cells (e.g. after myeloid leukaemia (AML).
a stem cell transplant) begin to grow and
reproduce themselves within the recipient. Essential thrombocythaemia (ET) – A disease
where too many platelets are made in the
Enzymes – Proteins that control the chemical bone marrow. Platelets are normally needed
reactions essential for life. Every cell contains in the body to control bleeding, however
many enzymes that control all of its functions. when there are too many platelets they may
clump together and make it hard for the
Eosinophil – A type of white blood cell blood to flow. This can lead to increased risks
involved in inflammatory, allergic or of inappropriate blood clots. See the LBC
antiparasitic responses. Usually present in the website for a fact sheet on ET.
blood circulation in very low numbers.
Exterior beam – Delivering radiotherapy to
Eosinophilia – Increased numbers of the inside of the body by beaming (shining)
eosinophils circulating in the blood. This radiation through the skin as opposed to
occurs occasionally in some cases of delivering it internally through an implant in
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), in drug reactions, or near a tumour (known as brachytherapy or
asthma, hay fever and parasitic infections. internal radiation).
Epidemiology – The science of studying the Extra-nodal lymphoma – A lymphoma that
occurrence of disease in populations and presents outside the lymph nodes, in tissues
relating this to genetic and/or environmental containing lymphocytes. A term used when
causes. describing the extent and site(s) of disease.
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) – A common Fanconi anaemia (FA) – A rare inherited
virus that causes glandular fever and type of aplastic anaemia where the cells of
sometimes post-transplant complications. the body have an increased sensitivity to
Also associated with Burkitt lymphoma. chemotherapy. FA carries an increased risk to
Epstein and Barr are the two people who first the patient of developing leukaemia. May be
described this virus. treated by a stem cell transplant.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) – Febrile – Having a fever or a high
A blood test that detects and monitors temperature above the normal
inflammation in the body. It is a measurement baseline (37°C).
of the rate at which red blood cells fall to
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand17 Haematology definitions
Ferritin – The major iron storage protein in Generic drug – This is a more scientific name
the body. The blood level of ferritin serves as for a particular drug. Each drug company
an indicator of the amount of iron stored in will have its own name for a particular
the body. Ferritin is reduced in iron-deficiency drug, called the brand name. For example,
anaemia, and can be grossly increased in ondansetron (generic name) is called Zofran
untreated haemochromatosis. (brand name) by one drug company. There
may be different costs and pharmaceutical
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) – Removal benefits of different brands. This should be
of a small piece of tissue or fluid from discussed with your haematologist.
a suspicious mass in the body using a
hypodermic needle and syringe. The tissue is Genes – Collection of DNA on a chromosome,
then microscopically examined and tested for present in the nucleus of the cell. Genes direct
cancer and other cells. the activities of cells. They are responsible for
the inherited characteristics that distinguish one
Foetus – An unborn child. individual from another. Each person has an
estimated 20,000 separate genes.
Folic acid – A vitamin necessary for marrow
cell growth, obtained from green leafy Genetic variants – Genetic differences between
vegetables, e.g. spinach. It is essential for the individuals, also known as polymorphisms.
production of DNA and therefore the growth Most variants are harmless, whereas some
and division of cells. Also known as folate. affect the risk of disease and some cause
disease (previously referred to as mutations).
Folic acid antagonist – A chemical that
inhibits a cell’s capacity to use folic acid and Genome – The total set of genes and DNA
so prevents cell division. An example is a drug carried by an individual or cell.
called methotrexate, which is used to treat
some leukaemias and autoimmune diseases. Grade – A term used to describe how
aggressive a disease looks under the
Fungus – A minute infective agent such microscope.
as a mould or yeast (includes candida and
aspergillus), causing particular problems in Graft rejection – When the transplanted tissue
immunosuppressed people. Usually larger is rejected by the recipient’s immune system,
than bacteria and harder to treat, fungi which then destroys the transplanted tissue.
require different drugs that are not yet as easy
to use as bacterial antibiotics. Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) –
A common, and sometimes serious,
Gamma globulin – A concentrated solution complication of allogeneic stem cell
of the antibody fraction of human blood transplantation. Some of the donor’s immune
given through the vein to prevent or fight cells try and reject the patient’s own cells as
infections, e.g. measles in patients with low foreign. The skin, liver and gut may be affected.
resistance. Gamma globulins are purified and It can occur in either chronic or acute forms and
sterilised from donated blood donations. is treatable by immunosuppressive drugs.Haematology definitions 18
Graft-versus-leukaemia (GvL) – Occurs Haematocrit – Measurement of the
when the donor stem cells recognise proportion of the blood occupied by the
antigens on the leukaemia blast cells as red blood cell. The remaining blood volume
foreign and initiate immune-mediated is plasma.
clearance of the malignant cells. GvL is an
important part of the antileukaemic effect Haematologist – A doctor specialising in the
of transplantation. diagnosis and treatment of blood and bone
marrow diseases.
Granulocyte – A type of white blood
cell containing granules in its cytoplasm Haematology – The study of diseases of the
(e.g. neutrophil, eosinophil, basophil). blood and bone marrow.
Granulocytes protect the body against
infection by seeking out and killing Haematoma – A localised collection of
microorganisms. blood, usually clotted, in an organ, space or
tissue. Due to a break in the wall of a blood
Groshong catheter – A form of central vessel, usually after trauma.
venous line/catheter.
Haematopoiesis – The process involved in
Growth factors – A complex family of blood cell formation. Also called haemopoiesis.
proteins produced by the body to control
growth, division and maturation of blood Haemochromatosis – A genetically inherited
cells by the bone marrow. Synthetic growth disorder involving excessive iron absorption
factors may be given to stimulate normal leading to inappropriately high levels of iron
cell production following chemotherapy or in the organs. The stored iron levels may
transplantation. G-CSF (granulocyte-colony potentially become high enough to cause
stimulating factor) is a synthetic growth factor damage to major organs, especially the liver,
that stimulates the production of neutrophils. but also the heart, pancreas, joints and the
organs that produce hormones. This iron
Growth hormone – A hormone secreted by overload can be treated by venesection.
the pituitary gland in the brain that controls See the LBC website for a fact sheet on
growth and is particularly important during haemochromatosis.
adolescence. Radiotherapy given to the
head and neck of children may lead to a Haemoglobin – The iron-containing pigment
deficiency in growth hormone. This may in red blood cells that carries oxygen around
be replaced by intramuscular injections of the body. Lack of haemoglobin is one cause
synthetic growth hormone. of anaemia. Normal haemoglobin levels vary
with age and sex.
Haem – Comes from a Greek word meaning
blood. Used in many medical terms, e.g. Haemolysis – The destruction of red
haematologist and haemoglobin. (Spelled blood cells, which leads to the release of
heme- in the USA.) haemoglobin from within the red blood cell
into the blood plasma.
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand19 Haematology definitions
Haemophilia – A group of inherited disorders Hickman catheter – A type of central venous
in which the ability of the blood to clot is line/catheter that is inserted through the skin,
impaired because of a deficiency of one of the under anaesthetic, into a major blood vessel
clotting factors. The two most common forms in the chest. It is used for patients undergoing
of the disorder are haemophilia A (classic intensive therapy and provides a route for
haemophilia due to factor VIII deficiency) and taking blood samples and the administration
haemophilia B (factor IX deficiency). of drugs without repeated needle puncture
of a vein. It may be a single, double or triple
Haemorrhage – The medical name for tube (or lumen). Other companies produce
bleeding. Can occur inside the body (internal) similar venous devices with different names
as well as outside the body (external). (e.g. Groshong catheter).
Haemorrhagic cystitis – A potential side High-dose therapy – The use of higher than
effect of some high-dose chemotherapy normal doses of chemotherapy to kill off
(usually given before stem cell transplant), resistant and/or residual (leftover) cancer cells
characterised by painful bladder spasms and that have survived standard-dose therapy.
blood in the urine.
High-grade lymphoma – A fast-growing
Hairy cell leukaemia – A rare leukaemia lymphoma.
distantly related to chronic lymphocytic
leukaemia (CLL) and characterised by the Histology – The investigation of tissue samples
presence of abnormal cells with hair-like by chemical and microscopic analysis.
projections. It typically occurs in middle age
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) – A type of lymph
onwards. Treatment may involve removal of
gland tumour named after Thomas Hodgkin,
the spleen but the most common current
who first identified the disease in the 19th
therapy is a single course of the drug
century. Also known as Hodgkin’s lymphoma
2-chlorodeoxyadenosine (2-CdA), also
or Hodgkin’s disease. See the LBC website for
known as cladribine.
a booklet on HL.
Heparin – An anticoagulant drug that
decreases blood clotting. Used to treat blood Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) –
clots by preventing any increase or extension in The virus that causes AIDS (acquired immune
clotting, while the body’s own anticoagulation deficiency syndrome).
system clears the formed clots. Small amounts
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) –
of heparin are also sometimes flushed into
A complex family of genetically inherited
a central venous line/catheter in a patient to
proteins found on the surface of cells
stop clots forming in the line.
throughout the body, which determine the
Hepatitis – Inflammation of the liver from a match between patient and potential donor
number of causes including viral infections, in stem cell transplantation. HLA factors are
chemicals, drugs and autoimmune conditions. inherited from the mother and father and so
the greatest chance of having the same HLA
Hepatomegaly – Enlargement of the liver. type is between brothers and sisters.Haematology definitions 20
Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) – infections by bacteria, viruses and fungi.
A group of viruses that invade T-cells. This can also result in impaired resistance
Includes a rare leukaemia virus, HTLV 1, found to cancer.
primarily in Japan and the Caribbean, causing
an increased incidence of T-cell leukaemia in Immune response – The reaction of the
these populations. The family of viruses also body to a foreign antigen, e.g. an infectious
includes the AIDS-causing virus, HIV. agent, or to the tissues of another individual
as in the rejection of an organ transplant.
Hypercalcaemia – Abnormally high levels of
calcium in the blood. Commonly associated Immune system – The cells and tissues that
with myeloma due to degradation of the make up the body’s defence mechanism
bones but can occur in other cancers. It is against infection and disease.
dangerous if not controlled and leads to
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) – A rare
constipation, confusion, dehydration, renal
disorder characterised by an acute shortage
failure and abnormal heart rhythms. Now
of platelets as a result of their increased
commonly controlled by tablets or infusion
destruction in the spleen that can result
of bisphosphonate drugs.
in bruising and spontaneous bleeding.
Hyperviscosity – Increased viscosity Antiplatelet antibodies are detectable in
(thickness) of the blood, usually caused by a some cases. It may present in either acute or
build-up of protein in the blood. Blood flow chronic form. See the LBC website for a fact
becomes more sluggish and slows the blood sheet on ITP.
supply to various parts of the body, including
Immunocompromised – When the function
the brain, and eyes.
of the immune system is reduced. Can be
Iatrogenic disease – A disease produced due to disease or treatment side effects.
as a consequence of medical or surgical
Immunoglobulins – Proteins in the blood
treatment.
plasma that function as antibodies and play
Idiopathic – A term applied to diseases to an important part in controlling infections.
indicate that the cause is unknown. Immunoglobulins (Ig) are Y-shaped structures
made up of two heavy chains and two light
Iliac crest – The back of the hip bone (pelvis). chains (see Figure 04). There are five main
A common site for a bone marrow biopsy. families of immunoglobulins, which are
named after the heavy chains that form an
Immature – Not fully developed, e.g. a important part of their structure: IgA, IgD,
cell that is immature is still at a baby stage. IgE, IgG and IgM. There are two types of
It will mature (or develop) over time to an light chains: kappa (κ) and lambda (λ).
adult stage. Purified immunoglobulins from blood
donors (such as Intragam P) are used to
Immune deficiency – Impaired ability of
prevent or treat infections.
the body’s defence mechanisms to combat
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand21 Haematology definitions
Immunotherapy – Type of cancer treatment
that works by boosting a person’s own
Figure immune system to fight the cancer.
04 Indolent – Slow growing.
Immunoglobulin Informed consent – Understanding the
structure information and accepting the possible risks
and benefits of the treatment or procedure.
Informed consent also means that other
Heavy Light
chain treatment or procedure options have been
Blood stem cell
chain
explained. Written consent means a consent
form needs to be signed, verbal consent
isMyeloid
where someone says theyLymphoid
stem cell
agree stem
to acell
treatment or procedure.
Infusion – The giving of antibiotics, blood
products, anticancer drugs or
Myeloid blast cell
nutrients into a
Lymphoid blast cell
person’s vein. The period of time an infusion
is given varies from minutes to hours.
Intensification – Increasing the amount,
Red Cell numberPlatelet
or combination
White cell of anticancer
T-lymphocyte B-lymphocyte
drugs given to a person in an attempt to
Heavy Light kill aggressive, drug-resistant or residual
chain chain malignant cells.
Figure 4: Immunoglobulin structure Figure 2: The cells created from blood stem cells
Interferon – A family of proteins derived from
Immunophenotyping – Specialised human cells which normally have a role in
laboratory test used to detect markers on the fighting viral infections. It is now available as a
surface of cells. These markers identify the product of molecular engineering to be used
origin of the cell. in the treatment of some blood cancers and
blood-related
bone diseases.
Immunosuppression – A treatment-induced
reduction in the body’s defence mechanisms. Intramuscular
bone marrow (IM) injection – Injection of
Deliberate immunosuppression is a necessary drugs into a muscle.
biopsy needle
part of the stem cell transplant procedure
to allow engraftment and to prevent graft- Intrathecal (IT) injection – Injection of drugs
skin
versus-host disease (GvHD). into the spinal fluid to prevent or treat brain
or central nervous system (CNS) leukaemia or
Immunosuppressive drug – A drug lymphoma, or to treat meningitis. The space
that inhibits the body’s normal defence between the brain and spinal cord and their
mechanisms, e.g. cyclosporin. coverings is known as the intrathecal space.
Figure 5: Bone marrow sample being taken from the pelvic boneHaematology definitions 22
Intravenous (IV) injection – Injection of out the bone marrow and preventing it from
drugs into a vein. producing normal blood cells. These abnormal
cells also spill out into the bloodstream and
Karyotype – Analysis to check the number, can accumulate in other organs.
form and structure of chromosomes. Can
give valuable information to aid in the Leukapheresis – Method of separating blood
diagnosis of disease and the selection of into its liquid and cellular components for
treatment. the removal of white blood cells before
returning the remainder of the blood to the
Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) – An enzyme patient. Used to reduce an abnormally high
normally produced by the body. Higher than white cell count in emergencies or when
normal blood levels of LDH may indicate the chemotherapy is to be avoided, such as
presence of tissue damage, a large amount during pregnancy. Also the technique used to
of tumour, or a fast-growing tumour in the collect stem cells from the blood to be used
body. in transplants.
Laparoscopy – An operation done through Leukocytes – Collective term for white blood
a small keyhole incision in the skin, often cells. Leuko = white; cyte = cell.
assisted by camera views. The spleen and
gallbladder are often removed using this Leukopenia – Condition in which the
technique. number of white blood cells in
the blood is greatly reduced. When the white
Laparotomy – An operation in which the cell count is very low, there is an increased
abdominal cavity is opened. risk of infections.
Late effects – Side effects of chemotherapy Lineage – Term used to describe cell
and/or radiotherapy that only become families with a common ancestry that
apparent with long-term monitoring of the develop from the same type of immature
patient over a period of years. These are of cell, e.g. lymphoid lineage refers to immature
particular concern in children treated before and mature lymphocytes.
puberty.
Localised disease – Disease that is confined
Leukaemia – Cancer of the blood and bone to a small area or areas of the body.
marrow characterised by the widespread,
uncontrolled production of large numbers Long-term survival – Used to describe the
of abnormal and/or immature blood cells. survival of leukaemia patients who have been
These cells take over the bone marrow and disease-free for a prolonged period of time,
often spill out into the bloodstream and can usually at least five years. The chance of the
accumulate in other organs. disease returning (relapse) decreases with time.
Leukaemic blasts – Abnormal blast cells which Low grade lymphoma – A slow-growing
multiply in an uncontrolled manner, crowding lymphoma.
Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand23 Haematology definitions
Lumbar puncture – A procedure for removing including the spleen, thymus, bone marrow,
cerebrospinal fluid from around the spinal lymph nodes and lymph vessels.
cord using a fine needle in the lower part of
the back. Samples are analysed for evidence Lymph nodes – Tissue structures found
of infection or CNS disease. Also used to throughout the body in the neck, groin,
administer anticancer drugs either to prevent armpit and abdomen that contain both
or treat central nervous system (CNS) disease. mature and immature lymphocytes.
These can be enlarged in infections or
Lupus anticoagulant – An antibody cancers, especially lymphomas. Also known
produced by the body that interferes as lymph glands.
with blood coagulation and can lead
to thrombosis. This antibody can occur Lymphocytes – Specialised white blood
spontaneously or in certain diseases such as cells involved in defending the body against
systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). disease and infection. There are two types of
lymphocytes: B-lymphocytes (B-cells) and
Lymph – The almost colourless fluid T-lymphocytes (T-cells).
in the lymphatic system that transports
lymphocytes around the body. Lymphoma – A cancer that originates from
the uncontrolled cancerous proliferation of
Lymphatic system – An extensive network lymphocytes. These lymphoma cells can be
of vessels that carries a fluid called lymph found in lymph glands, the spleen and other
through almost all tissues in the body. The tissues. Lymphoma can spread to involve
lymphatic system is part of the immune the bone marrow and blood and then look
system. See appendix B on page 38 for like leukaemia. The general term ‘lymphoma’
an image showing the lymphatic system includes over 40 different forms of the
Figure Spinal cord
05 Cerebrospinal
Lumbar fluid (CSF)
puncture
Vertebrae Needle taking
sample of CSFHaematology definitions 24
disease, classified in two main categories: Matched unrelated donor (MUD) transplant
Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin – An allogeneic stem cell transplant where
lymphoma. the donor is unrelated to the patient but has
a similarly matched tissue type. Also called
Lymphoproliferation – An increase in the voluntary unrelated donor (VUD) transplant,
production of lymphocytes. May occur or unrelated donor (URD) transplant.
as a normal response to infection or as
a consequence of a lymphoproliferative Mediastinum – The central part of the chest
disorder such as a lymphoma or chronic surrounded by the lungs and heart containing
lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). thymus and lymph glands.
Macroglobulinaemia – A condition where Megakaryocyte – Large cells in the bone
the blood contains high levels of large marrow that produce platelets by maturing
proteins (macroglobulins, IgM antibodies) and fragmenting into discrete platelets.
and is too thick to flow through the
small blood vessels. The most common Minimal residual disease (MRD) – A very
cause is a condition called Waldenstrom small number of cancer cells that remain in
macroglobulinaemia, where clonal cancerous the body during or after treatment. MRD can
lymphoid cells make the abnormal antibody. be found only by highly sensitive laboratory
tests that are able to find one cancer cell
Macrophage – A type of white blood cell among one million normal cells. This is called
that migrates from the blood into tissues and MRD testing. Also referred to as measureable
acts as a scavenger, ingesting particles such residual disease.
as bacteria.
Mobilisation – A process using drugs and
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – A body growth factors by which increased numbers
scanning technique that uses an intense of stem cells are produced that then overflow
magnetic field to generate three dimensional out of the bone marrow into the blood
(3D) images of internal organs and structures. stream ready for collection via apheresis. This
Properties of normal and cancerous cells is done to collect adequate numbers of stem
differ, allowing malignant tumours to be cells for transplantation.
identified.
Monoclonal antibodies – A type of protein
Maintenance treatment – Treatment given made in the laboratory that can bind to
for a period of months or years to maintain substances in the body, including cancer
remission and eliminate or suppress any cells. There are many kinds of monoclonal
residual leukaemia cells in the body, usually antibodies. A monoclonal antibody is made
for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). so that it binds to only one substance.
Monoclonal antibodies are being used to
Malignancy – A term applied to tumours treat some types of cancer, either alone or to
characterised by uncontrolled proliferation of carry drugs directly to cancer cells.
cells. See cancer.
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