GlossaryNCCN Cancer Centers
| The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a not-for-profit alliance of 23 of the world’s leading cancer centers. We are dedicated to improving the quality and effectiveness of care provided to people with cancer. |
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Glossary of terms used on this site
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Watchful waiting |
Closely monitoring a patient's condition but withholding treatment until symptoms appear or change. Also called observation. |
| Whipple procedure |
A type of surgery used to treat pancreatic cancer. The head of the pancreas, the duodenum, a portion of the stomach, and other nearby tissues are removed. |
| White blood cell |
Refers to a blood cell that does not contain hemoglobin. White blood cells include lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages, and mast cells. These cells are made by bone marrow and help the body fight infections and other diseases. Also called WBC. |
