neoadjuvant

Definition of neoadjuvant therapy
National Cancer Institute

neoadjuvant therapy

(NEE-oh-A-joo-vant THAYR-uh-pee)
Treatment given as a first step to shrink a tumor before the main treatment, which is usually surgery, is given. Examples of neoadjuvant therapy include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. It is a type of induction therapy.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms