MRD
Medical abbreviation · Hematology and Oncology
| Stands for | Minimal residual disease |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
MRD stands for Minimal residual disease, a hematology and oncology abbreviation.
Small number of cancer cells remaining after treatment, below the level detectable by standard microscopy, measured with sensitive flow cytometry, PCR or next-generation sequencing. It is a powerful predictor of relapse in acute leukemias, CLL and multiple myeloma.
Example: End-of-induction MRD negative at 10^-5 by NGS; continue standard-risk therapy.
Usage notes
Many experts now prefer "measurable residual disease." MRD guides treatment intensity in childhood ALL and is used to decide on transplant in AML. In 2024 an FDA advisory committee supported MRD as an accelerated approval end point in multiple myeloma. Circulating tumor DNA tests extend the MRD concept to solid tumors after surgery.
Related abbreviations
More hematology and oncology abbreviations
- mCRPC – Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer
- MDS – Myelodysplastic syndrome
- mets – Metastases
- MGUS – Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance
- MM – Multiple myeloma
- MPN – Myeloproliferative neoplasm
- MSI-H – Microsatellite instability-high
- NCCN – National Comprehensive Cancer Network
- NCI – National Cancer Institute
- NED – No evidence of disease
- NET – Neuroendocrine tumor
- NGS – Next-generation sequencing
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.