National Cancer Institute National Cancer Institute
U.S. National Institutes of Health National Cancer Institute
Dictionary of Cancer Terms
Send to Printer
vaccine

 A substance or group of substances meant to cause the immune system to respond to a tumor or to microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses. A vaccine can help the body recognize and destroy cancer cells or microorganisms.

Previous Definitions:uveal tract, uvula, VACB, vaccinated, vaccination
Next Definitions:vaccine adjuvant, vaccine therapy, vaccinia CEA vaccine, vaccinia-TRICOM vaccine, vacuum aspiration