Definition

The loss of all or part of the short arm (also called the p arm) of chromosome 17. The 17p deletion leads to the loss of the tumor suppressor gene TP53, which is linked to many genetic conditions and some types of cancer, such as leukemia, multiple myeloma, and myelodysplastic syndrome. Checking for the 17p deletion may help diagnose cancer, plan treatment, or make a prognosis. Also called chromosome 17p deletion and deletion 17p.