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Glossary of Terms

Introduction

Parts of this glossary have been taken or adapted from the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Dictionary and the American Breast Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Dictionary.

This glossary does not contain definitions of medications. To learn more about specific medications, visit the website of the National Cancer Institute.

Many thanks to the healthcare practitioners who reviewed portions of this glossary:

  • Mechelle Barrick, RN, BSN, OCN, Greater Baltimore Medical Center
  • Debra S. Copit, MD, Albert Einstein Medical Center
  • Ann L. Honebrink, MD, Penn Health at Radnor
  • Isabel I. Law, RN, South Carolina Comprehensive Breast Center
  • Judith Macon, RN, MA, Suburban Hospital Cancer Program
  • Suzanne McGettigan Bensman, MSN, CRNP, AOCN
  • Lisa McGinty, RN, BSN, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania
  • Maria Rocktashel, MSN, CRNP, Delaware Valley Surgical Associates
  • Lynn M. Schuchter, MD, University of Pennsylvania Abramson Cancer Center
  • Michele D. Stolper, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
  • Fionda N. Williams, RN, BSN, Baltimore City Cancer Program

Glossary

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Karnofsky Performance Status

KPS. A standard way of measuring the ability of people with cancer to perform ordinary tasks. The Karnofsky Performance scores range from 0 to 100. A higher score means the person is better able to carry out daily activities. KPS may be used to determine a person's prognosis, to measure changes in a person's ability to function, or to decide if a person could be included in a clinical trial.

kelp

Laminaria digitata. A type of seaweed. The stem-like parts of this plant have been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems. It may have immunostimulatory and anticancer effects.

killer cell

A white blood cell that attacks tumor cells and body cells that have been invaded by foreign substances.

KPS

Karnofsky Performance Status. A standard way of measuring the ability of people with cancer to perform ordinary tasks. The Karnofsky Performance scores range from 0 to 100. A higher score means the person is better able to carry out daily activities. KPS may be used to determine a person's prognosis, to measure changes in a person's ability to function, or to decide if a person could be included in a clinical trial.

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Glossary of Terms