Login
Treatment

Complete Response

Also known as: CR, Complete remission, Complete clinical response

Definition

The disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment, though cancer may still be present in the body.

Detailed Explanation

A complete response (CR) means all measurable disease has disappeared on imaging scans and physical exams. However, microscopic cancer cells may remain, so patients continue monitoring. CR doesn't always mean cure, but it's associated with improved survival. In immunotherapy trials, complete responses can be durable, lasting years even after treatment stops.