Medical dictionary

A brain MRI is a type of scan which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of your brain. An MRI is carried out by a radiologist and is a safe and pain-free procedure. Why do I need a brain MRI? A brain MRI is used to investigate a number of things. If you have gone to the doctor with symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, seizures, or changes in your behav

What are brain tumours?    A brain tumour is the abnormal growth of cells in the brain. It may be benign, non-cancerous, or malignant, containing cancerous cells that grow fast.   Primary tumours are named after the location in which they begin, in this case the brain. There are other tumours that originate in other parts of the body and spread by metastasis to the brain.

What is the BRCA gene? The BRCA genes affect the likelihood of which a person may develop cancer. They enable the human body to suppress tumours by producing proteins that correct damaged DNA in our cells.   Mutations of these genes do not give you cancer, but they greatly inhibit the body’s ability to prevent it. They result in tumour suppressing proteins t

What is breakthrough bleeding? Breakthrough bleeding is vaginal bleeding that occurs between a woman's monthly menstrual periods, particularly in women who are using hormonal birth control.  What are the causes of breakthrough bleeding? The causes of breakthrough bleeding can include: uterine fibroids miscarriage ectopic pregnancy underactive thyroid cervical or ute

What is breast asymmetry?  Women with breast asymmetry have breasts that are different in shape, position or size. In fact, the great majority of women have mild breast asymmetry. However, when the asymmetry is significant, it may adversely affect the woman’s body image, her self-esteem and confidence. Breast asymmetry can be classified into three types: Anisomastia: a signific

What is breast augmentation? Breast augmentation involves an operation where implants are inserted into your breasts to increase their size, change their size or to make them more symmetrical. The procedure is often known as breast augmentation or as a 'boob job'. Breast augmentation or mammoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size and volume of the breasts. Normal

What is breast augmentation? Breast augmentation with implants involves an operation where implants are inserted into your breasts to increase their size, change their size or to make them more symmetrical. The procedure is often known as breast augmentation or as a 'boob job'. Breast augmentation or mammoplasty is a surgical procedure aim

What is breast cancer? Breast cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the cells of the breasts, mainly in women but men can also be affected. It is the most common type of cancer in the UK, with approximately one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, and around one in 870 men develop it. Although it is the most common form of cancer, the recovery rate is high if

What is breast cancer surgery? Breast cancer surgery is a key part of cancer treatment. This procedure can be done alone or in combination with other treatments to remove the cancer, the most common being chemotherapy, radiotherapy or hormonal therapy. In people with a high risk of breast cancer, surgery is the best option for reducing the risk of having breast cancer again in t