MedicalTerminology DB
General Medical Terms

disease-free survival

Meaning of disease-free survival: The length of time after treatment for a specific disease during which a patient survives with no sign of the disease.

Definition of disease-free survival

The length of time after treatment for a specific disease during which a patient survives with no sign of the disease. Disease-free survival may be used in a clinical study or trial to help measure how well a new treatment works. Also called DFS and disease-free survival time.

Written and maintained by James Murray Last updated July 21, 2026 Educational reference, not medical advice. Read the limitations.

For learning, not diagnosis. This glossary provides general educational information and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you may be experiencing a medical emergency, contact local emergency services.