What does the term "remission" mean?

The term "remission" refers specifically to a state in which there is no evidence of disease (NED). This means that the signs and symptoms of the disease have significantly diminished or completely disappeared, indicating a positive response to treatment. In the context of illnesses such as cancer, remission can signify that the disease is under control, though it does not necessarily imply a permanent cure. It suggests that the individual may not currently exhibit any measurable indicators of the disease, even though careful monitoring is often necessary, as there remains a risk of recurrence in the future.

This precise definition sets "no evidence of disease" apart from other possible interpretations of remission. For instance, having symptoms without a diagnosis does not accurately capture the essence of remission, as it implies ongoing disease-related challenges. Similarly, being in treatment without visible tumors suggests ongoing therapeutic intervention but does not confirm that the disease is inactive or absent. Lastly, stopping treatment due to side effects may relate to the management of the disease but does not address the status of the disease itself. Thus, the clarity and specificity of "no evidence of disease" as a description of remission make it the correct choice.