| ABMT |
Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant: |
| ACE |
Chemotherapy regimen adriamycin
(doxorubicin), cyclophosphomide and etoposide. |
| AC |
Chemotherapy regimen adriamycin
(doxorubicin), cyclophosphomide |
| AC-taxotere |
Chemotherapy regimen adriamycin
(doxorubicin), cyclophosphomide then taxotere |
| AC-taxol |
Chemotherapy regimen adriamycin
(doxorubicin), cyclophosphomide then taxol |
| Acute |
Occurring suddenly, or sharply over a
short period of time |
| Adenocarcinoma |
Refers to a cancer that arises from
cells of glandular (secretory) tissue. |
| Adjuvant chemotherapy |
This refers to any therapy used after
primary treatment to reduce the risk of the cancer recurring. |
| AFP |
Alpha-fetoprotein: A protein that is
sometimes present in the blood of patients that have testicular
cancer. |
| ALA |
Abbreviation for aminoleulinic acid.
This compound is converted into a fluorescent compound inside cells.
Normal cells eliminate this compound, but renal cancer cells, glioblastoma
and bladder cancer cells do not. This causes these cancer cells to
fluoresce under a xenon light, making them easier to distinguish from
normal cells, and therefore easier to remove surgically. |
| ALND |
Axillairy lymph node dissection: A
surgical technique used to identify the presence of metastases (cancer) in
lymph nodes of the armpit near a tumour. |
| Alopecia |
Loss of hair. |
| Alternative therapies |
These are therapies that are used
instead of current medical therapies. For a more complete definition
please see the section of this web site on complementary and alternative
therapies. |
| AML |
Acute myeloblastic leukaemia. A form
of blood cancer (leukaemia) where immature myeloid blood cells grow
excessively. It is more common in adults than in children. See section on
leukaemia. |
| Anaemia |
Low red blood cell count or lack of
red blood cells, resulting in weakness and lack of oxygen in the organs. |
| Angiogenesis |
The generation of blood vessels. |
| Aredi |
A medicine (Pamidronate) used to
reduce the blood level of calcium, also known to inhibit the function of
osteoclasts (cells responsible for the turnover of bone). |
| Arimidex |
A drug (anastrozole) used to treat
breast cancer. It works by lowering the amount of oestrogen produced by
the body. It does this by preventing the adrenal glands from producing
oestrogen. Arimidex belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase
inhibitors |
| Aromasin |
A drug (exemestane) used to treat
breast cancer in post menopasual women. It works by lowering the amount of oestrogen produced by
the body. It does this by preventing the adrenal glands from producing
oestrogen. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase
inhibitors. |
| Arthralgia |
Pain in the joints from any
cause |
| Asbestos |
Asbestos is a naturally occurring
silicate mineral that is mined for its heat resistant properties. Certain
asbestos fibres are carcinogenic when inhaled, causing a cancer of the
lining of the lung known as mesothelioma. Strict handling procedures are
needed when dealing with asbestos to ensure that no dust containing free
asbestos fibres is released. One of the most toxic varieties of asbestos
is tremolite. |
| Ascites |
An abnormal build up of
immunogolbulin (antibody) rich fluid in the abdomen. |
| Ataxia |
Clumsiness, dizziness, lack of
co-ordination |
| Axillary |
Meaning the armpit area |
| Arcoma |
A form of cancer that arises in the
supportive tissues such as bone, cartilage, fat or muscle |
| Avastin |
Generic name for the monoclonal
antibody - bevacizumab, an angiogenesis inhibitor. |
| Barium enema |
Barium sulfate is a substance that is
opaque to X-rays and it may given as an enema to help visualise the bowel
on X-ray films. A Barium enema is a method used to help diagnose bowel
cancer. |
| BCC |
Basal cell carcinoma: Refers to
cancer that arises from cells at the base of the skin. |
| bd (or) bid |
Medical notation for twice per day |
| Bereavement |
The term to describe the loss of a
friend or relative |
| Bence Jones Protein |
A characteristic protein found in the
urine of some patients with multiple myeloma. It can be used to help in
diagnosis of the disease and to monitor the response to treatment. |
| Benign |
A noncancerous growth. A growth of
cells that do not invade other tissues (metastasise) and may be removed by
surgery. |
| Benign tumour |
A growth or tumour that does not
spread and is not cancerous. |
| Benzyopyrene |
A highly carcinogenic compound found
in tobacco smoke. Benzyopyrene levels may be measured in the urine of
smokers. |
| Betacarotene |
Betacarotine is a naturally occurring
antioxidant which is converted into vitamin A by the body. While its
antioxidant properties are believed to reduce the risk of cancer, by
neutralising free radicals, in smokers it is believed to increase the risk
of lung cancer. Smokers should not take betacarotene supplements. |
| Biopsy |
A biopsy is a procedure that involves
obtaining a tissue specimen for microscopic analysis to establish a
precise diagnosis, it may be done using a needle or surgery. |
| BNCT |
BNCT or Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
is an experimental type of radiotherapy under investigation in clinical
trials. |
| Blood transfusion |
The procees of receiving extra blood
via a vein |
| Bone marrow |
The soft, spongy tissue found in the
centre of most large bones that produces white cells, red cells and
platelets. |
| Bone marrow transplant |
See ABMT and PBSCT |
| Bone density scan |
A test to measure the density or
calcium content of bones (osteopenia or osteoporosis) |
| Bone scan |
A test used to see if
there are any areas of abnormality (usually cancer) within the bones of your body. |
| BPH |
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A
condition where the prostate gland grows abnormally large but is non
cancerous. |
| BRAC1 |
BRAC1 is a gene which, when damaged
(mutated), places a woman at greater risk of developing breast and/or
ovarian cancer, compared with women who do not have the mutation. In a
woman with a BRCA1 mutation, the estimated lifetime risk of developing
breast cancer is about 50% compared with about 12% in the general
population. A woman who has this mutated gene has a 50% chance of passing
on the gene to each of her children. A genetic test is available, but it
is recommended only for women who are known to be at risk because several
women in their family have had breast or ovarian cancer at an early age
(before menopause). |
| BRAC2 |
BRAC2 is a gene which, when damaged
or mutated, puts the carrier at a much higher risk for developing breast
cancer and/or ovarian cancer than the general population. In a woman with
a BRCA2 mutation, the estimated lifetime risk of developing breast cancer
is 50% - 60%. BRCA2 and BRCA1 together account for about 80% of the breast
cancer that occurs in women with strong family histories of the disease.
BRCA2 is also thought to raise the risk for breast cancer in men. A
genetic test for BRCA2 is available but is only recommended for those with
strong family histories of breast or ovarian cancer. |
| Brachyatherapy |
A type of radiotherapy where
radioactive pellets, wires or fine needles are temporarily implanted
within or close to a tumour. This is done to deliver the radiation
directly to the tumour while minimising the damage to surrounding tissue. |
| Bracken |
Bracken, or the common fern (Pteridium
Spp.) is one of the most common woodland plants in the world. It produces
a range of toxic compounds, some of which have been proven to be
carcinogenic if ingested. See ptaquiloside. |
| Breast form |
This is a term used to describe a
breast prosthesis that may be worn inside ones bra following breast
surgery. |
| Broviac |
A Broviac catheter is a long thin
tube which is inserted into a large vein and secured there for up to a few
months. Blood samples may be taken and transfusions or medicines given
through this tube, thus avoiding needles. |
| Boron Neutron Capture Therapy |
Boron Neutron Capture Therapy or BNCT,
is an experimental type of radiotherapy under investigation in clinical
trials. Briefly, the principle is to localise an element called boron into
a tumour (by means of an antibody or other targeting molecule). If a
stream of subatomic particles called neutrons is then directed into this
area, the boron captures the neutrons and produces a certain type of
radiation known as alpha-radiation.. Alpha-radiation can only penetrate a
very short distance (one thousandth of a centimetre), so it is very
specific and therefore will only produce minor damage to surrounding
healthy tissue. This alpha-radiation damages the cancer cell"s DNA so
that it can no longer multiply. Currently clinical trials are ongoing
using BNCT to treat glioblastoma multiforme (a form of brain cancer) at
Studsvik in Sweden, Petten in the Neatherlands, and at the Massachusetts
institute of technology in the US. Neutrons are only produced by nuclear
reactors, so the clinical trial centre must be attached to a nuclear power
station. There are only a few such centres worldwide |
| Cachexia |
A profound state general of ill
health characterised by malnutrition and loss of weight. |
| Carcinogenic |
Cancer causing |
| Carcinogens |
A range of substances that are known
to cause cancer including, asbestos, ionising and UV radiation, tobacco,
glasswool, radon gas, certain food moulds (aflatoxin), wood dust and
diesel exhaust fumes. See section What is cancer for a comprehensive list
of carcinogens. |
| Carcinoid |
Intestinal tumour arising from cells
that release messengers that control other cells. E.g. serotonin. |
| Catheter |
A tubular, flexible, surgical
instrument for withdrawing fluids from (or introducing fluids into) a
cavity of the body. |
| Cellulitis |
Inflammation of the skin, most
usually based in the extracellular fluid known as lymph. |
| Chemo |
The word "chemo" is a
sometimes used by patients rather than saying chemotherapy. |
| Chemotherapy |
Term used to describe giving medicine
or drugs to treat an illness. Chemotherapy most often refers to anticancer
drugs. |
| CHOP |
Abbreviation for a chemotherapy
regimen consisting of cyclophosphamide, adriamycin (doxorubicin), Oncovin
(vincristine) and prednisolone. |
| CIN |
Cervical Intra-epithelial Neoplasia:
This is the name given to abnormal cells occurring in the uterine cervix
which are not cancerous but may lead to cancer. |
| Clinical trial |
A clinical trial is a scientific
study involving patient care designed to assess the value of a new
treatment or therapy compared to current practice. |
| CML |
Chronic mylogenous leukaemia. A form
of leukaemia characterised by |
| Colonoscopy |
Examination of the colon most often
using a device called an endoscope. |
| Colostomy |
A colostomy is the term used to
describe the opening formed by an operation where the open end of a part
of the large bowel is diverted to the surface of the abdomen and secured
there to form a new exit for waste matter. |
| Complementary therapies |
These are therapies that compliment
current medical therapies but do not replace them. For a more complete
definition please see the section of this web site on complimentary and
alternative therapies. |
| Control group |
This term is used to describe the
group of patients in a clinical study that do not receive the new
treatment. This group is important as only by comparing their progress
with those receiving the treatment, can any real benefit be proven. |
| CT Scan (CAT scan) |
Computed tomography scan. A
computerized x-ray procedure that produces cross-sectional (layer by
layer) images of the body. These images are far more detailed than regular
x-ray films, and can reveal disease or abnormalities in tissue and bone. |
| DCIS |
Ductal Carcinoma in Situ. DSIC is a
cancer inside the ducts of breast that has not grown through the wall of
the duct into the surrounding tissues. It accounts for approximately 30%
if breast cancer in Ireland. Good prognosis is involved with in situ
cancers. It is sometimes known as intraductal carcinoma. Treatment is by
surgery or a combination of surgery and radiotherapy. Most cases of DCIS
are detectable only by mammography. |
| Deltacotril™ |
A formulation of the drug
prednisolone which is coated to provide less stomach irritation. |
| Dioxin |
Dioxins are a family of highly toxic
compounds produced by the breakdown of plastics, polychlorobiphenyls
(PCBs) and by incineration. The are highly carcinogenic and accumulate in
the body fat of living organisms. This is one of the reasons that it is
unhealthy to consume large amounts of animal fat. |
| Diplopia |
Double vision |
| Diuretic |
A drug or medicine that causes the
body to produce more urine, thus excreting waste products and reducing
swelling or blood pressure. |
| Double blind |
This is a term used to describe the
operation of a clinical trial, where neither investigator nor participant
knows which patient is receiving the new treatment or the regular
treatment. This is done to eliminate any bias in the outcome of the trial. |
| Doxorubicin |
An anticancer drug of the
anthracycline series, originally derived from Daunorubicin which is
naturally produced by a soil dwelling bacterium. Also known as adriamycin. |
| DRE |
Digital Rectal Examination. This term
describes the physical examination of the rectum, or back passage to check
for any abnormalities, such as an enlarged prostate or cancer. |
| Durogesic™ |
A strong pain relieving medicine (Fentanyl).
It may be administered by a transdermal (across the skin) patch. |
| Endocrine |
Hormones |
| Endoscope |
A diagnostic device consisting of a
tube containing flexible optic fibres that may be passed into the body,
allowing one to see inside. The result may be viewed on a video screen. |
| Epistaxis |
Nosebleed |
| FBC |
Full blood count: counting the
number of red and white blood cells. |
| Fibroma |
A benign (non-cancerous) tumour which
consists of fibrous tissues or connective tissue. |
| Flagyl ™ |
Flagyl is an antibacterial drug which
is used to kill anaerobic bacteria. Its non-brand name is metronidazole.
It is used for a wide variety of infections including those that occur in
the bones, nervous system, respiratory tract, skin, as well as vaginal and
intestinal infections. |
| Fractionation |
This is the term used to describe
giving radiation over a number of sessions, rather than one large dose
during a single session. This works well for treating cancer, as cancer
cells are less well able to repair any damage inflicted by radiation,
while normal cells repair themselves. |
| Gleevec™ or Glivec™ |
This is the trade name for a drug
called "imatinib mesylate", which is produced by the Notavaris
corporation and used to treat leukaemia (specifically CML). Its mode of
action is by inhibiting the function of an mutant enzyme (a tyrosine
kinase) produced cells that posess a particular chromosomal mutation (Bcr-Abl
gene). |
| Goserelin |
A drug (brand name Zoladex) which is
administered by injection and used to treat breast or ovarian cancer. This
drug functions by inhibiting the production of a hormone called lutanising
hormone which |
| Haemangiolblastoma |
A rare type of tumour that develops
from blood vessel cells |
| Haematologist |
A doctor specailsing in disorders of
the blood including cancer. |
| Haematoma |
This term is used to describe the
swelling and hardness that sometimes accompanies the collection of blood
at the site of a bruise. Haematomas usually disappear within a few weeks
but may be drained if causing discomfort. |
| HER2 |
Human Epidermal growth factor
Receptor type 2: A cell surface receptor found to be over expressed in
certain forms of aggressive breast cancer. |
| Herceptin™ |
Herceptin is the drug name for a
monoclonal antibody raised against a cell surface receptor (HER2) found on
certain breast cancer cells. This drug has been used in phase III clinical
trials and has provided substantial clinical benefit to HER2-positive,
metastatic breast cancer patients. |
| Hickman line |
This is the name given to a special
type of intravenous line that is inserted into a large vein in the neck. A
Hickman line or catheter may stay in place for several months allowing
drugs to be given or samples of blood to be drawn off. |
| Hodgkins Disease |
A malignant disorder that appears to
originate in the lymph nodes and later spreads to the spleen, liver and
bone marrow. It occurs mostly in individuals between the ages of 15 and 35
and is characterised by progressive, painless enlargement of the lymph
nodes, spleen and general lymph tissue. Diagnosis is confirmed by the
identification of giant cells, known as Reed Sternberg cells. |
| HPV |
Human Papiloma Virus. A virus
responsible for the growth of soft wart-like growths on the genitalia.
Certain types of HPV are linked with the development of cervical cancer.
HPV is most commonly transmitted via sexual intercourse. Transmission can
be prevented by the use of condoms. |
| Hyperfractionated |
Radiotherapy given a number of times
in smaller doses, rather than one large dose. |
| Hyperplasia |
Over growth of the cells of any
tissue. |
| Hyperthyroidism |
Overactive thyroid gland. This
condtion is usually treated with drugs but in other cases it is treated
using radioiodine ablation. |
| Hypertrophy |
An enlagement of the cells of any
tissue |
| Histopathology |
Histopathology is the science
concerned with the study of microscopic changes in diseased tissues. A
scientist called a Histopathologist is specially trained to observe subtle
differences in the microscopic structure of cells to determine if disease
is present, and how aggressive the disease may be. |
| Ileostomy |
An operation where the open end of a
part of the small intestine (ileum) is diverted to the surface of the
abdomen and secured there to form a new exit for waste matter. |
| Incidence |
This refers to the frequency, or how
often a cancer is diagnosed. Incidence is not the same as mortality. |
| Inguinal |
Refers to the groin region. |
| Interferon |
Interferon (brand name Intron A) is a
substance normally produced by the body to help fight viral infections. It
may be artificially produced in the laboratory and is used as a drug to
help stimulate the body"s own immune system to attack cancer cells. |
| Intravenous |
Refers to the administration of
medicine directly into a vein. |
| Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) |
Intravenous pyelogram, a special kind
of x-ray procedure where a dye injected into the bloodstream and travels
to the kidneys, ureters and ultimately ends up in the bladder. This
procedure helps to clearly outline these organs on an x-ray film, but must
be used with caution where kidney damage is suspected or in patients
suffering from multiple myeloma, where it may cause kidney failure. |
| Iscador |
Is an extract of mistletoe and is
thought to boost the body"s immune system. Studies have shown a rise
in the number of white blood cells (T-lymphocytes) following injections of
Iscador. However, Iscador is toxic and even though it affects the growth
of cancer cells in the laboratory, no studies have shown that it has a
clear cut effect on the progress of cancer in humans. See mistletoe. |
| Isotope bone scan |
In this test a small amount of a
mildly radioactive substance is injected into a vein. Abnormal bone
absorbs more of the radioactive substance that normal bone. This then
shows up on a special type of X-ray film. |
| IVU (Intravenous urogram) |
See IVP |
| JVP |
Jugular venous pressure |
| Killer cells |
Cells in our immune system which
flight foreign attack |
| Lactulose |
A medicine used to ease constipation
(laxative), common brand name Duphalac. |
| Laparoscopic Cryoablation |
A new technique which may be used to
treat localised tumours by freezing them and causing cell destruction. It
has been used to treat localised renal tumours using a freezing probe
guided by laporoscopy. |
| Laparoscopy |
A minimally invasive surgical
technique, where a small incision is made and an optic system is used to
direct surgery inside the body. |
| Laryngectomy |
The surgical removal of the larynx
(voice-box). Most often performed in cases of cancer of the larynx. |
| Latissimus dorsi flap procedure |
A method of breast reconstruction
that uses the long flat muscle of the back by rotating it to the chest
area. |
| LCIS |
Lobular Carcinoma in Situ. LCIS is
not a cancer in itself, and the majority of women that develop LCIS will
not need any treatment. However, a diagnosis of LCIS does mean that there
is a increased risk of developing breast cancer later in life. It is
therefore recommended that women with LCIS undergo 6-12 monthly breast
examinations, and yearly mammograms. |
| Lesion |
Any pathological change in a tissue,
sometimes cancerous. |
| LHermittes sign |
A neurological sign, typified by
sharp ‘electric’–type shocks in peripheral nerves. L’Hermitte sign
may be produced by bending the clients head forward, resulting in the
perception of these shocks. It is associated with a pathological change in
the membranous coating of the nerves fibres in the spinal cord. The
pathological change to this membranous nerve fibre coating can be caused
by trauma (e.g. radiation, chemotherapy, viral infection) or degenerative
disease (e.g. multiple sclerosis). It varies in severity from mild to
debilitating. Palliation is achieved with medicines like Neurontin,
Tegretol etc. The course of the condition is variable, depending in part
on the suspected cause or trauma. |
| Li-Fraumeni syndrome |
The Li-Fraumeni syndrome is caused by
inherited mutations that inactivate the p53 tumor suppressor gene. This
results in a very high risk of developing one or more types of cancer that
include breast cancer, brain cancer, osteosarcoma, and other sarcomas. |
| LinAC |
Linear Accelerator. A sophisticated
external beam radiotherapy machine which has the capabilities of focusing
high energy radiation on a particular area of tissue. |
| LP |
Lumbar puncture. This is a diagnostic
procedure where a sample of spinal fluid must be taken for examination. |
| Lumbar puncture |
This is a diagnostic procedure to
obtain a specimen of spinal fluid for examination. |
| Lumpectomy |
This is a term used to describe the
surgical removal of part of the breast. |
| Lymphoedema |
This is the term used to describe a
side effect sometimes produced by the surgical removal of lymph nodes or
damage to lymph channels caused by radiotherapy or surgery. With
lymphoedema, fluid cannot drain effectively from the surrounding tissue,
and this can cause swelling and discomfort. Treatment for lymphoedema
involves compression bandages, elastic garments, limb positioning, massage
and movement. |
| Lymphoma |
Malignant tumour of white blood cells
derived from B lymphocytes. |
| Malignant |
This term is used to describe cancer
cells that are capable of invading surrounding tissues and traveling to
distant parts of the body. |
| Mammogram |
An examination of the breast using
X-rays. The purpose of this test is to detect breast cancer early. This is
because most lumps are not felt by the hand until they are greater that
1cm in diameter. |
| Marker |
A term used to describe an physical
indicator that may be quantified. It may be a blood component or a cell
surface molecule or even a region of DNA along a chromosome. Markers are
used to identify blood groups, organ transplant compatibility and even
cancer type. Certain markers are identified by microscopy using
specialised staining procedures. Alternatively markers may be identified
by fluorescent antibodies combined with a technique called flow cytometry. |
| Massage |
A form of complimentary therapy,
where structured touch can be used to relax, relieve muscle tension and
bring about a sense of well-being in the patient. Massage is a very useful
form of therapy but must be avoided in certain illnesses and cancers, as
it affects the flow of lymph. As with any complimentary therapy you should
inform your health care professional before starting any complimentary
treatment. |
| Mastectomy |
Surgical removal of the breast. |
| Melanoma |
A tumour arising from the malanocyte
cells of the skin and other organs. See section on skin cancer. |
| Mephalan™ |
An anticancer drug belonging to
alkylating class of agents |
| Mesothelioma |
This is a cancer of cells that line
the lung, known as the plura, and is often linked to exposure to a certain
types of naturally occurring asbestos fibres. |
| Metastases |
Also known as secondary tumours,
metastases are cancerous growths at sites distant from the main tumour,
that have resulted due to cancer cells migrating. |
| Micrometastases |
Metastais that may only be identified
by using microscopy and / or pathological staining techniques. |
| Migration Stimulating Factor (MSF) |
A type of cytokine released by cells,
which promotes cell migration. MSF is believed to play a role in invasion
and metastasis of cancer cells. |
| Mortality |
This refers to the number of deaths
occurring in a particular time period. |
| MRI |
Magnetic Resonance Imaging. A special
imaging technique used to image internal structures of the body,
particularly the soft tissues. The MRI machine uses magnetic fields to
build up a series of cross sections of the body. While scanning usually
takes an hour and is painless, the machine is very noisy. These images are
very clear and are particularly good for soft tissue, brain and spinal
cord, joints and abdomen. These scans may be used for detecting some
cancers or for following their progress. |
| MST™ |
A strong pain receiving medicine
(Morphine). It is used for the continuous relief of severe pain as this
preparation releases the drug slowly. |
| Multiple myeloma |
Multiple myeloma is an overgrowth of
plasma cells in the bone marrow, resulting in anemia and destruction of
bone mass. Ionising radiation can cause multiple myeloma. A relatively
uncommon malignancy, the highest rates occur in the Nordic countries, the
UK and Switzerland. Treatment is usually by chemotherapy (Mephalan and
Prednisolone ) and palliative radiotherapy. |
| Mycosis fungoides |
A rare form of lymphoma, which mainly
affect the skin. |
| Mycostatin™ |
A medicine (Nystatin) in liquid form
usually used to prevent fungal infections in the mouth. |
| Nausea |
Feeling sick in ones stomach. |
| Neoadjuvant chemotherapy |
This is chemotherapy given before
surgery to reduce a large tumour so that it is more surgically manageable. |
| Neoplasm |
Term for a tumour which may be benign
or cancerous. |
| Neutropenia |
A term used to describe a lack of
white blood cells known as nuetrophils. Neutrophils are the white blood
cells responsible for fighting off bacterial infections. |
| Oedema |
Swelling caused by fluid. |
| Oncologist |
A doctor specailsing in treating
cancer. |
| Oncology |
The study of tumours or cancer. |
| opd |
Medical notation for once per day |
| Oramorph™ |
A strong pain relieving medicine
(Morphine). It is used for the short term relief of severe pain. |
| Orichidectomy |
The surgical removal of a testicle.
The removal of one testicle does not make a man sterile, nor affect his
ability to get an erection |
| Orphan Drug |
There are many diseases and
conditions, which affect such small numbers of individuals that the
diseases and conditions are considered rare. Because these conditions are
rare, adequate drugs for treatment have not yet been developed. Drugs for
these conditions are commonly referred to as ‘orphan drugs’. A drug is
classified as ‘orphan’ if it is given to less than a total of 200,000
people annually or that the prevalence of the condition being treated, is
less than 5 in 10,000. See our web page on clinical trials |
| Pagets disease |
This is a disease of bone that
initially results in the excessive resorption of bone (by osteoclasts)
followed by the replacement of normal bone marrow with vascular and
fibrous tissue. Paget"s disease sometimes occurs in the breast. |
| Palliative care |
Treatment aimed at relieving symptoms
and pain rather than effecting a cure. Palliative Care is the continuing
active total care of patients and their families by a multi-professional
team at a time when the patients disease is no longer responding to
curative treatment. The goal of Palliative Care is to provide the highest
possible quality of life for both patient and family. Palliative Care
responds to physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs. If
necessary, it extends to support in bereavement. |
| Paris system |
A system devised to calculate the
correct placement of radioactive implants within a tumour so that maximal
dose is given to the tumour, while surrounding tissues are spared. |
| PBSCT |
Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transport:
Blood is drawn from a patient and passed through a cell separator. This
collects stem cells, and returns the rest of the blood back to the
patient. |
| Petechiae |
Tiny hemorrhages from small blood
vessels just beneath the skin surface. The appear when the blood count
(platelet) is low. Patechiae can also be caused by an adverse reaction to
a drug or by septicemia. . Petechiae look like tiny red spots on the skin,
which do not blanch when a glass tumbler is applied to the skin. |
| Photodynamic Therapy |
The concept behind PDT is that the
patient is first intravenously given a photosensitive drug (temoporfin).
Then, high-energy light in the form of a Laser is used to illuminate the
area of the tumour, and this action converts the drug into a cell toxic
compound. The illuminated cell subsequently dies. The patient must then
avoid bright light for up to three weeks following treatment due to
photosensitivity. Photodynamic therapy is increasingly being used for head
and neck cancer, where the outcomes in terms of function and appearance is
thought to be improved |
| Placebo |
A tablet or capsule that looks like
the medicine used in a clinical trial, but does not contain any active
ingredient. |
| Platelet |
Tiny fragments of blood cells that
help form clots and prevent bleeding. |
| po |
Per Oral: Medical abbreviation to
indicate that a medicine is to be administered by mouth, |
| Prednisolone |
A corticosteroid used to treat a
variety of conditions. Specially coated versions of the tablet (enteric)
are available which are less irritating on the stomach. |
| Prostate |
A small conical gland at the base of
the male bladder and surrounding the first part of the urethra. The
prostate secretes fluid that combines with sperm to produce semen. |
| Prosthesis |
An artificial replacement. |
| Protocol |
A treatment plan for how, when and
what dose of treatment to give. |
| PSA |
Prostate Specific Antigen: PSA is an
substance produced by the prostate. Men with prostate cancer tend to have
higher levels of this protein in their blood. |
| Ptaquiloside |
An alkaloid glucoside toxin produced
by the bracken fern (Pteridium Spp.) which is known to produce bladder and
intestinal cancer in animals following consumption. |
| Pulmonary |
To do with the lungs |
| qd |
Medical notation for once per day |
| qid |
Medical notation for four times
daily. |
| QUART |
Quadrantectomy, Axillary Clearance
and Radiotherapy. This treatment for breast cancer involves surgical
removal of one quarter of the affected breast, together with the axillary
lymph glands and radiotherapy to the breast. |
| Rhabdomyosarcoma |
Malignant tumour derived from
striated muscle (sarcoma). |
| Radioiodine ablation |
A treatment for hyperthyroidism (over
active thyroid). In hyperthyroidism, too much thyroid hormone is produced
leading to ill health. Iodine is naturally taken up by the thyroid to
produce these thyroid hormones. By giving a carefully calculated dose of
radioactive iodine, thyroid function can be reduced. |
| Radiotherapy |
The use of high energy beams of
radiation to treat cancer, as cancer cells are more susceptible to damage
by radiation than ordinary cells. See section on radiotherapy |
| Radium |
A naturally occurring radioactive
element, no longer used in radiotherapy, as safer and more intense sources
have been discovered. |
| Radon |
A radioactive gas released from
granite deposits in certain geographical locations. Exposure to Radon is
associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Radon can leak into
buildings through the floor and may accumulate inside. Domestic Radon
emissions can be measured by contacting the Radiological Protection
Institute of Ireland. |
| Raloxifene |
A drug used to treat breast cancer
(brand name Evista-R). It has the same mechanism of action as tamoxifen,
but is primarily used to treat osterporosis. |
| RBCs |
Red blood cells: These blood cells
are responsible for carrying oxygen around the body via a network of veins
and arteries. Also known as erythrocytes, their characteristic red colour
is due to a high content of a iron containing protein called heamoglobin,
which tightly binds oxygen. |
| Reed Sternberg Cell |
Giant cells with mirror image nuclei
which are are found in patients suffering from a form of lymphoma known as
Hodgkin"s lymphoma. |
| Remission |
A period of good health where there
is no detectable evidence of cancer. |
| Retinoblastoma |
Malignant tumour of the retina,
usually arising in the inner nuclear layer of the neural retina. |
| Rigor |
Stiffening of muscle as a result of
either very high temperature. Rigor can be caused biochemically by high
calcium levels and adenosine triphosphate depletion (ATP), where actin and
myosin links are made in the muscle fibres, but not broken. |
| SCC |
Squamous cell carcinoma: Refers to
cancer that arises from cells close to the surface of the epithelium
(layer of cells lining the exterior of an organ, eg skin). |
| Seminoma |
A type of testicular cancer that
arises from the germ cells at a very early stage of their development. |
| Sezary syndrome |
A rare form of lymphoma, which mainly
affects the skin. |
| SLND |
Sentinel lymph node dissection: An
experimental surgical technique used to identify the presence of
micrometastases in lymph nodes that drain near a given tumour. |
| Somnolence |
An unnatural sleepiness and
irritability. |
| Staging |
The process of assessing the extent
of progress of cancer in a patient so that appropriate treatment may be
prescribed given the location, spread and aggressiveness of a cancer. |
| Stem cell |
A specific type of cell responsible
for the production of platelets, red and white blood cells. |
| Stoma |
The Greek word for an opening. |
| Stomatitis |
Inflammation of the oral mucosa. |
| T.P.N. |
Total parentaral nutrition. This is
where nutrients are given via the blood stream (intravenously), rather
than by mouth. |
| Tamoxifen |
An antioestrogen drug (brand name
Nolvadex) that may be given to women with estrogen receptive positive
tumours to block oestrogen from entering the breast tissues. Currently
being used with high risk women in clinical trials to prevent breast
cancer and women who have had breast cancer to prevent recurrence. Compare
with Arimidex |
| Topical |
Refers to the surface of the body.
Topical preparations or medicines usually come in ointment or cream form. |
| TRAM flap |
Transverse Rectus Abdominus Muscle
flap, a method of breast reconstruction where tissue from the lower
abdominal wall, is moved into the chest to create a breast mound. This
procedure usually means that an breast implant does not have to be used. |
| Transdermal |
Literally meaning "across the
skin", this refers to medicines that may be administered through the
skin, as an ointment or patch form. |
| Tumor marker |
A substance sometimes found in an
increased amount in the blood, other body fluids, or tissues and which may
suggest the presence of some types of cancer. Examples of tumor markers
include CA 125 (ovarian cancer), CA 15-3 (breast cancer), CEA, CA 19.9
(ovarian, lung, breast, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract cancers), and
PSA (prostate cancer). Also called biomarkers. |
| Tumour |
An excessive growth of cells
resulting in an abnormal mass. A tumour may be either benign or cancerous. |
| Urostomy |
This is the term used to describe the
opening created by an operation, where the waste matter from the kidneys
is diverted to the surface of the abdomen and secured there to form a new
exit for waste matter (urine). |
| VAD |
Chemotherapy
regimen of Vincristine, Adriamycin (dodorubicin) and
Dexamethasone. |
| VEGF |
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor,
or VEGF is a protein produced in increased amounts by cancer cells to
promote the growth of vascular tissue. Drugs that block the action of VEGF
are the source of much research. One such drug in Phase I clinical trials
is SU5416 being used to treat Von Hippel Lindau Syndrome. It can be found
in the urine of people with bladder cancer. |
| Vincristine |
An anticancer drug with cytostatic
properties (stops cells growing). It works by preventing the correct
formation of the cell spindle during cell division. |
| Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome |
VHL is a rare herdidatary disease in
which affected individuals are genetically disposed to develop certain
types of tumours and cysts in multiple organs, most of which are
nonmalignant but may undergo transformation (Martz 1992) |
| Warfrin |
A drug used to prevent blood clotting
(thin the blood). |
| Water Tablets |
See diuretics. Examples include
frusamide, lasix. |
| WBCs |
White blood cells: Usually referred
to as lymphocytes, they are responsible for fighting infection. |
| Xeloda |
Trade name for capectabine. |
| Xeroderma Pigmentosum |
Individuals with XP are less able to
repair damage caused to their skin by the suns UV rays, and so have a high
risk of developing skin cancers including melanoma. Individuals must avoid
sunlight, and have constant monitoring of their skin for tumours. XP is a
rare condition, but by studying it, scientists have been able to better
understand which genes protect us from certain forms of cancer. |
| Y |
No terms in glossary |
| Zoladex |
A drug (Goserelin), which is
administered by injection and used to treat breast or ovarian cancer. This
drug functions by inhibiting the production of a hormone called lutanising
hormone. |
| Zofran™ |
A medicine (Ondansetron) used to
control nausea and emesis (vomiting) |