FOLFOX
Medical abbreviation · Hematology and Oncology
| Stands for | Folinic acid (leucovorin), fluorouracil, oxaliplatin |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
FOLFOX stands for Folinic acid (leucovorin), fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, a hematology and oncology abbreviation.
Combination chemotherapy for colorectal cancer, both after surgery for stage III disease and for metastatic disease, and also used in stomach, esophageal and pancreatic cancers. It is given every two weeks, with fluorouracil infused over about 46 hours through a portable pump.
Example: Stage III colon cancer: adjuvant FOLFOX x 6 months started; oxaliplatin dose reduced for neuropathy.
Usage notes
The MOSAIC trial (2004) established adjuvant FOLFOX for stage III colon cancer. Oxaliplatin causes a distinctive cold-triggered tingling in the hands and throat and cumulative nerve damage, so patients avoid cold drinks during treatment. Leucovorin enhances fluorouracil's effect. Biologics such as bevacizumab or panitumumab are added for metastatic disease.
Related abbreviations
More hematology and oncology abbreviations
- FISH – Fluorescence in situ hybridization
- FL – Follicular lymphoma
- FLOT – Fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, docetaxel
- FN – Febrile neutropenia
- FOLFIRI – Folinic acid (leucovorin), fluorouracil, irinotecan
- FOLFIRINOX – Folinic acid, fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin
- FVL – Factor V Leiden
- G6PD – Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
- GBM – Glioblastoma multiforme
- GVHD – Graft-versus-host disease
- HbS – Hemoglobin S
- HCT – Hematopoietic cell transplantation
See all 144 hematology and oncology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.