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Aldosterone
al-DOS-teh-rone
A steroid hormone made by the adrenal cortex (the outer layer of the adrenal gland). It helps control the balance of water and salts in the kidney by keeping sodium in and releasing potassium from the body. Too much aldosterone can cause high blood pressure and a build-up of fluid in body tissues. Aldosterone is a type of mineralocorticoid hormone.
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Alkylating agents
(AL-kuh-LAY-ting AY-jents)
A type of drug that is used in the treatment of cancer.
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Allergen
(A-ler-jen)
A substance that causes an allergic response. Examples include pollen, molds, and certain foods.
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Allogeneic
(A-loh-jeh-NAY-ik)
Taken from different individuals of the same species. Also called allogenic.
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Alopecia
A-loh-PEE-shuh
The lack or loss of hair from areas of the body where hair is usually found. Alopecia can be a side effect of some cancer treatments.
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Alpha-fetoprotein
(AL-fuh-FEE-toh-PROH-teen)
A protein normally produced by a fetus. Alpha-fetoprotein levels are usually undetectable in the blood of healthy adult men or women (who are not pregnant). An elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein suggests the presence of either a primary liver cancer or germ cell tumor. Also called AFP.
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Alternative therapy
Non-conventional treatment that may not be medically proven. Some alternative therapies may have dangerous or even life-threatening side effects. With others, the main danger is that you may lose the opportunity to benefit from conventional therapy. It is recommended that you discuss the use of alternative therapies with your health care team.
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Ambulatory
The ability to walk; not confined to bed.
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Aminoglycoside antibiotics
(uh-MEE-noh-GLY-koh-side AN-tee-by-AH-tik)
A substance that works against many types of bacteria and includes streptomycin, gentamicin, and neomycin. An aminoglycoside antibiotic is used to treat bacterial infections.
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Amputation
(A-loh-PEE-shuh)
The removal by surgery of a limb (arm or leg) or other body part because of injury or disease, such as diabetes or cancer.
