Glossary
Our extensive collection of web-based and other resources for patients, families, and caregivers provides easy access to information on a wide variety of subjects related to pancreatic cancer.
There are currently 32 Terms in this directory beginning with the letter I.
Ileum
Lowest part of the small intestine, located beyond the duodenum and jejunum, just before the large intestine (the colon).
Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)
Treatment with radiation that uses imaging tests to better target the tumor.
Imaging tests
Methods used to produce pictures of internal body structures; for example, X-ray films, ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Immune response
The action of the body’s natural defense against infection and disease in response to a foreign substance.
Immune suppression
The condition in which the body's immune system, its natural defense against infection and disease, is weakened. This can occur because of illness or because of treatment for some diseases.
Immune system
The body's natural defense against disease, made up of a variety of organs, cells, and proteins.
Immunoglobulin
Proteins in the serum and cells of the immune system that help fight off infection. Also called antibodies.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
A test of proteins within cells to detect specific cell traits involved in abnormal cell growth. It is used to diagnose types of cancer.
Immunotherapy
Treatment that boosts the body's natural defense against disease. Also called immune therapy.
In situ
Literally, something found in its original place. In cancer, in situ describes cancer cells that have not spread from their original location.
Inflammation
A reaction in one part of the body that produces redness, warmth, swelling, and pain as a result of infection, irritation, or injury. Inflammation can be external or internal.
Informed consent
Process in which a person is given important facts, such as the risks and benefits, about a medical procedure or treatment or a clinical trial before deciding whether to participate.
Informed consent form
A document that must be read, understood, and signed by a person wanting to take part in a research study or clinical trial.
Inherited mutations
DNA mutations carried in a person’s reproductive cells and potentially passed on to that person’s children. (See also Mutations.)
Insulin
A hormone made by islet cells of the pancreas that controls the amount of sugar in the blood by moving it into the cells, where it can be used for energy.
Interstitial radiation
A type of internal radiation therapy that places radioactive objects in the tumor.
Interventional radiologist
A radiologist who uses image guidance methods to gain access to vessels and organs to treat diseases.
Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN)
A tumor of the pancreas that produces mucus that clogs and enlarges the pancreatic duct; IPMNs may progress to invasive pancreatic cancer if left untreated.
Intrathecal injection
Injection into the space surrounding the spinal cord, given to help control pain after surgery.
Irinotecan
One of the approved chemotherapy drugs for pancreatic cancer, it inhibits the replication and transcription of DNA, and so interferes with cell growth.