Medical dictionary

What is analysed?Oestrogen receptors and progesterone receptors are specialised proteins found within certain cells that bind to the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone, respectively.Some breast cancer tumours have receptors for oestrogen and/or progesterone:When oestrogen receptors are present, the tumour is called ER-positive.When progesterone receptors are present, the tumour is called P

What is being analysed?The amount of oestrogen in the body is being analysed in this test. Oestrogen is a vital hormone primarily produced in the ovaries in females and smaller quantities in males. It plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting reproductive function, maintaining bone density, and impacting various other physiological processes. When is it requested?Anal

What is old age psychiatry (older adult psychiatry)?   Old age psychiatry (older adult psychiatry) is a branch of psychiatry that specialises in the study, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health problems in elderly people. Old age psychiatry is a growing specialty in the UK because of our ageing population, with more and more of the population being aged more tha

What is oncological nutrition? Cancer patients often experience changes in appetite caused almost always by the tumour itself and the medication they need to take. The sense of taste is affected and the resulting lack of appetite can cause malnutrition and substantial weight loss. However, one-third of people already suffer from malnutrition at the time of diagnosis, a number that increases aft

What is oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery? Oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery rebuilds the breast after breast cancer surgery, with the aim of reducing scarring and preserving as much of the existing breast tissue as possible. There are various surgical techniques and procedures available and the treatment usually requires the input of a multidisciplinary team, inclu

What is a One Stop Breast Clinic? A ‘One Stop Breast Clinic’ is one in which patients with any concerning breast symptoms, such as a lump, asymmetry, breast pain, nipple discharge, or skin changes can be assessed in an outpatient clinic for an immediate and accurate diagnosis in a matter of hours. This approach to breast cancer diagnosis aims to provide convenience and reassurance t

What is a one-stop clinic? A one-stop clinic aims to provide its patients with their initial consultation, a diagnosis and treatment plan within one visit to the clinic. In a one-stop clinic, there is a variety of staff (multiple specialists, nurses, imaging technicians etcetera.) to meet all the potential needs of the patient during their visit. What happens at a one-stop clinic? One

What is online psychological therapy? When suffering from mental health conditions, psychotherapy is the gold standard treatment, although the ideal treatment depends greatly on the type of illness and on the patient’s circumstances. While many patients either seek out, or are referred to psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors, who they will visit on a face-to-face basis, sometimes

What is onychomycosis?Onychomycosis or nail fungus is a common fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails. It causes nails to thicken, discolour and become brittle at the edges. If the condition is mild, treatment may not be needed, however, if the nails become too thick and cause pain and discomfort, medical intervention will be required. Nail fungus is more common among adults, particu