Cancer Glossary: what does this word mean?

This glossary lists common cancer terms that your doctor and other health professionals may use when working with you.

Click or tap on the letters below to go to that part of the alphabet.

A – B – C – D – E – F – G – H – I – J – K – L – M – N – O – P – Q – R – S – T – U – V – W – X – Y – Z

A

ABCDE guidelines

A set of signs used to help identify melanoma. The letters stand for: A=Asymmetry, B=Border, C=Colour, D=Diameter and E=Evolving.

abdomen

The part of the body between the chest and hips, which contains the stomach, spleen, pancreas, liver, gall bladder, bowel, kidneys and uterus. Also known as the belly. 

abdominoperineal resection (APR)

An operation for rectal cancer. This involves removing part of the colon, the rectum and anus, and creating a permanent colostomy. Also used for anal cancer.

ablation

Inserting needles or probes into the cancer to destroy cancer cells with heat, cold or alcohol.

abstinence

Not engaging in penetrative sexual activity.

accelerated phase

The second phase of chronic myeloid leukaemia progression. This is when the number of blast cells increases.

accelerated radiation therapy

Receiving a higher dose of radiation therapy in a shortened period of time.

acellular dermal matrix (ADM)

A type of material that is made from donated animal or human tissue and is used as a soft tissue substitute.

achalasia

The inability of the oesophagus to move food down into the stomach.

acoustic neuroma

See vestibular schwannoma.

acral lentiginous melanoma

A rare type of melanoma of the skin that occurs on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet or under the nails.

actinic keratosis

See sunspot.

active exercise techniques

Exercise techniques that require active participation to achieve benefits such as improving strength, wellbeing and quality of life and decreasing stress.

active ingredient

The ingredient in a medicine that works on the body.

active myeloma

Myeloma that requires treatment because it is causing symptoms or because test results indicate a

high risk of the disease progressing. Also known as symptomatic myeloma.

active surveillance

When a person does not receive immediate treatment, but instead has their health monitored regularly with the option of future treatment if the cancer starts growing faster. Sometimes called active monitoring, watchful waiting or observation.

active treatment

Treatment that aims to control or cure the cancer. Does not include maintenance treatments given long term to reduce the chance of the cancer coming back.

acupressure

An ancient technique that is similar to acupuncture. It involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to unblock energy.

acupuncture

A form of traditional Chinese medicine in which fine, sterile needles are inserted into points along energy channels (meridians) in the body to reduce symptoms of ill health.

acute leukaemia

A fast-growing cancer that produces large numbers of immature white blood cells that enter the bloodstream.

acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)

A fast-growing leukaemia in which too many immature white blood cells from the lymphoid family (called lymphoblasts) are in the blood and bone marrow. Also called acute lymphatic leukaemia.

acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)

A fast-growing leukaemia in which too many immature white blood cells from the myeloid family (called myeloblasts) are in the blood and bone marrow.

acute ovarian failure

Sudden loss of ovarian function.

acute pain

Pain that starts suddenly and may be mild or severe. It lasts for a short time, perhaps only days or weeks.

acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APML)

A type of AML. It makes up about 10% of all acute myeloid leukaemias and is treated differently to other types of AML.

Adam’s apple

The laryngeal prominence. This is the protrusion in the neck caused by cartilage around the thyroid and larynx (voice box).

addiction

When a person uses drugs even though they know it can harm them.

adenocarcinoma

Cancer that starts in the mucus-producing (glandular) cells that form part of the lining of the lungs and other internal organs. Most cancers of the breast, pancreas, lung, prostate and colon are adenocarcinomas.

adenoma

A benign growth of glandular tissue. Adenomas are usually benign but can become malignant. They can grow from many organs in the body, such as the colon and thyroid.

adenomatous

Relates to an adenoma.

adenopathy

Large or swollen lymph glands.

adenosquamous carcinoma

A rare type of cervical cancer that features both squamous cells and glandular cells. Also called mixed carcinoma.

adhesion

Scar tissue that forms between surfaces inside the body.

adhesive nipple

Silicone stick-on nipple.

adjuvant analgesic

Pain relief that is given with or shortly after the primary treatment. Also known as adjuvant drugs.

adjuvant therapy

A treatment given after the main treatment to lower the risk that the cancer will come back.

adoption

When a child is placed into the permanent care of a person who isn’t their biological parent.

adrenal glands

Triangular glands resting on top of each kidney that produce adrenaline and other hormones.

adrenaline

A hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to physical or emotional stress. It increases your heart rate and prepares the body to react to danger.

advance care directive

A written document intended to apply to a point in the future when you don’t have the capacity to make medical treatment decisions. It provides a legal means for a competent adult to appoint a substitute decision-maker and/or record their choices preferences for future medical and personal care. May be called a health direction, an advance health directive or an advance personal plan.

advance care plan

A written document that records your medical treatment wishes that can be used if you are unable to speak for yourself due to illness or injury. Also called a living will or advance care directive.

advance care planning

When a person thinks about their future health care and discusses their preferences with their family, friends and health care team. The written record of these wishes may be known by different names, such as an advance care directive, advanced care plan, or “living will”.

advanced cancer

Cancer that is unlikely to be cured. In most cases, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic cancer). Treatment can often still control the cancer and manage symptoms.

advanced prostate cancer

Prostate cancer that is unlikely to be cured. It may have spread to nearby tissue or organs (locally advanced) or to more distant sites (metastatic). Treatment can often still control the cancer and manage symptoms.

advanced melanoma

Melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic cancer).

advanced head and neck cancer

For head and neck cancer, this means a cancer that has spread beyond the initial site. It may have spread to nearby tissue and lymph nodes (locally advanced) or it may have spread to other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic cancer).

adverse action

Action that negatively affects someone’s unemployment. It is unlawful if the action is taken because an employee has a disability, is caring for someone with a disability or takes paid personal leave.

adverse event

An unintended and possibly harmful occurrence related to taking a medicine or using a medical device.

advocacy

Campaigning, speaking out publicly and making recommendations for positive change on behalf of oneself or other people.

aerobic

Exercises that cause heart and breathing rates to rise.

aflatoxin

Mould found on peanuts and some other foods that can cause primary liver cancer.

agent

A general term for drugs or substances used in the treatment of illness.

aggressive lymphoma

A fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

AIDS

Acquired Immune deficiency virus. A condition resulting from infection with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

airways

The tubes that carry air into the lungs, including the trachea and bronchi.

albumin

A major protein found in the blood. The protein level can provide some indication of overall health and nutritional status.

alcohol injection

A type of tumour ablation treatment that directs pure alcohol into a tumour to destroy the cancer cells.

Alexander technique

A method of realigning posture.

alkylating agents

A group of chemotherapy drugs. They work by damaging cell DNA and stopping cell growth.

allied health professional

A university-qualified professional who works with others in a health care team to support a person’s medical care. Examples include psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and dietitians.

allogeneic stem cell transplant

A process that involves taking stem cells or tissues from one person and giving them to another.

allopurinol

Helps to keep the chemical balance of your blood stable.

alopecia

Hair loss.

alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)

A chemical found in the blood of some people with liver cancer and some men with non-seminoma testicular cancer. Doctors may monitor levels of AFP through blood tests to see how successful treatment has been.

alternative therapy

Any of a range of therapies used in place of a conventional treatment, often in the hope that it will provide a cure.

alveoli

The tiny air sacs in the lungs, where oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide leaves it.

amelanotic melanoma

A rare type of cutaneous melanoma.

amyloidosis

A build-up of thick fibrous tissue called amyloid tissue that can impair the way some organs work.

anaemia

A reduction in the number or quality of red blood cells in the body.

anaerobic

Exercises that focus on single muscles or muscle groups.

anaesthetic

A drug that stops a person feeling pain during a medical procedure. Local and regional anaesthetics numb part of the body; a general anaesthetic causes a temporary loss of consciousness.

anal cancer

A cancer affecting the tissues of the anus.

analgesic

A medicine used to relieve pain.

anal sphincter

See sphincter.

anaplastic thyroid cancer

A rare type of thyroid cancer that may grow quickly.

anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL)

A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system.

anastomosis

The joining together of 2 tubes, such as 2 cut ends of the bowel.

androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)

A treatment that blocks the body’s natural hormones that help cancer grow. See hormone therapy.

androgen

A type of hormone that produces male physical characteristics such as facial hair or a deep voice. The main androgen, testosterone, is produced by the testicles.

androgens

Male sex hormones that produce physical characteristics such as facial hair or a deep voice. The main androgen hormone, testosterone, is produced by the testicles.

anecdotal evidence

Evidence based on personal experience that has not been scientifically tested.

angiogenesis

The formation of new blood vessels. This enables tumours to develop their own blood supply, which helps them grow.

angiogenesis inhibitor

A type of targeted therapy drug that attacks developing blood vessels so the cancer cells can’t grow and spread to other parts of the body.

angiogram

An x-ray image of blood vessels.

angiosarcoma

A rare type of primary liver cancer that starts in the blood vessels.

animal research

Research using animals to check the safety and effectiveness of a treatment before it is tested on humans.

annual leave

Paid time off work that builds up (accumulates) during employment. Must be applied for before taking.

anorexia

Loss of appetite.

anterior resection

An operation to remove cancer in part of the rectum.

antibody

A protein made by the blood in response to an invader (antigen) in the body. They help protect against viruses, bacteria and other foreign substances. Part of the body’s immune system

anti-cancer treatments

A medicine or procedure used to reduce or destroy cancer and cancer cells. Includes surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

anticipatory grief

Grief that occurs before an expected loss. It affects the family members and friends of the person who is dying. Also known as pre-loss grief.

antidepressant

A medicine to help relieve the symptoms of depression.

antiemetic drugs

A drug that helps to control nausea and vomiting.

antigen

Any substance that causes the immune system to respond, often prompting the blood to make antibodies.

anti-oestrogens

Drugs used to treat cancers that depend on the female hormone oestrogen to grow.

antioxidant

A substance that prevents a process called oxidation, which can damage DNA. Antioxidants include vitamins A, C and E and selenium.

anus

The opening at the end of the bowel where solid waste matter normally leaves the body. The muscles that control it are called the anal sphincter.

anxiety

Strong feelings of fear, dread, worry or unease. Physical symptoms can include a racing heart, shallow or fast breathing, shaking, nausea and agitation.

apheresis

The process of separating different types of blood cells using a machine.

apheresis

When blood is removed from the body and passed through a machine to separate a component such as stem cells. The remainder of the blood is then returned to the body. Apheresis is one of the key steps in a stem cell transplant.

apoptosis

A type of programmed (normal) cell death. This the body’s normal way of getting rid of damaged, unneeded or unwanted cells.

appendix

A small tube hanging off the end of the caecum.

appetite

The feeling of being hungry or wanting to eat. Loss of appetite is when you don’t feel like eating.

appliance

See stoma bag.

applicator

Thin plastic tubes (catheters) or cylinders that are used to insert a radiation source into the body for brachytherapy.

areola

Coloured rim of tissue around the nipple.

arm

Group of people who receive the same treatment in a randomised trial. Most randomised trials have 2 arms, but some have 3 or more arms.

aromatase inhibitors

Drugs that help prevent the growth of oestrogen-dependent cancer cells by reducing the amount of oestrogen in a postmenopausal woman’s body.

aromatherapy

The use of essential oils extracted from plants to improve a person’s mood and physical symptoms.

arterial embolisation

A treatment for kidney cancer in which the artery that feeds the diseased kidney is deliberately blocked. This causes the kidney and the tumour inside it to die.

artery

A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.

art therapy

The use of art to help people express their feelings.

asbestos

A naturally occurring silicate mineral that forms long, crystallised fibres. Formerly used in manufacturing and building, asbestos use is now banned in Australia because the fibres can cause serious illness.

asbestosis

A slowly progressing lung disease caused by asbestos in which the lungs are gradually replaced by scar tissue.

asbestos-related diseases

Diseases caused by inhaling asbestos fibres. They Includes lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma as well as non-cancerous disorders such as asbestosis, diffuse pleural thickening, pleural plaques, pleural effusion and fluid build-up, and rounded atelectasis.

ascending colon

The right side of the bowel.

ascites

Collection of fluid between the 2 layers of tissue that line the abdomen and pelvis, making the abdomen swollen and bloated. Also known as peritoneal effusion.

aspiration

Inhaling food or drink into the lungs.

assisted reproductive technologies (ART)

Procedures that help infertile people have a baby.

asset

Something you own. It may include financial items such as money, bonds, shares or a bank account, or physical items such as a house, land or a car.

astrocytoma

A type of brain or spinal cord tumour that starts in the glial cells known as astrocytes.

asymptomatic myeloma

See smouldering myeloma.

atypia

Slight changes in the cells of the cervix that could be precancerous.

atypical ductal hyperplasia

An abnormal but non-cancerous condition of the cells in the lining of the milk ducts in the breast.

autologous transplant

A process that involves taking stem cells or bone marrow from a person’s own body and then giving them back following high-dose chemotherapy. Also called an autologous stem cell transplant.

axilla

The armpit.

axillary lymph nodes

Lymph nodes in and around the armpit.

axillary surgery

The removal of some lymph nodes in the armpit to check whether cancer has spread.

axillary tail

Breast tissue that extends into the armpit

axillary web syndrome

See cording.

Ayurvedic medicine

A traditional medical system from India. It aims to balance the body’s systems using diet, herbal medicine, massage, meditation and yoga.

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B

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG)

A vaccine against tuberculosis that is also used as an immunotherapy treatment for some bladder cancers.

balanced diet

Having a diet that includes a wide variety of food to give you the energy, protein, vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy.

bankruptcy

A process for individuals to be legally declared as being unable to pay their debt obligations.

Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system

A set of criteria to guide management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

barium enema

An examination of the bowel area using a white contrast liquid called barium. The barium is inserted into the rectum and x-rays are taken.

barium meal

A diagnostic test. The patient drinks liquid (barium) to coat the stomach and small bowel and has x-rays to show abnormal areas.

barium swallow

A diagnostic test. The patient drinks liquid (barium) that coats the pharynx and oesophagus to show any abnormalities in x-rays.

Barretts oesophagus

Abnormal changes in the cells that line the lower oesophagus. A risk factor for oesophageal cancer.

Bartholin glands

Small glands on either side of the vagina that secrete mucus for lubrication. Also called the greater vestibular glands.

basal cell

One of the 3 main types of cells that makes up the top layer of the skin.

basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

A type of skin cancer that affects the basal cells in the top layer of the skin.

baseline

A phase during a study when the participants are not receiving any treatments. This is usually at the beginning of a trial before treatment is started.

basement membrane

The layer of tissue that sits between the dermis and epidermis of the skin.

base oil

An oil used in aromatherapy or massage that allows the therapist to work over the skin easily. Also known as carrier oil.

base rate of pay

The minimum rate payable to an employee for their ordinary hours of work.

basic research

Scientific research carried out in a laboratory to study tiny components of the body, including cells, compounds and molecules. Sometimes called test tube or laboratory research.

B-cell

A type of lymphocyte (white blood cell) that makes antibodies to fight infection.

BCG

See Bacillus Calmette-Guerin.

BCR-ABL gene

A gene created when cells don’t divide properly. It leads to an abnormal protein called tyrosine kinase being made.

behavioural intervention 

Method of influencing a person’s behaviour, e.g. to encourage them to take certain actions to improve their physical or mental health.

behavioural research

Research into how people’s behaviours affect their chances of getting or recovering from cancer.

Bence Jones protein

The name of a light chain protein found in the urine of some people with myeloma. For these people, urine tests may be used to help diagnose and monitor the disease.

benefit

The amount paid by an insurer for an insured service.

benign

Not cancerous or malignant. Benign tumours are not able to spread to other parts of the body.

benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)

A non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate.

bereavement

The state of having experienced the loss of someone important to you.

beta-2 microglobulin (β2M)

A small protein found in the blood. High levels occur in people with active myeloma.

beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG)

A chemical found in the blood of some people with either seminoma or non-seminoma testicular cancer.

bias

Human choices or other factors not related to the treatments being tested that might affect a study’s results.

biceps

The muscles on the top of the arm between the elbow and the shoulder.

bilateral mastectomy

Surgery that removes both breasts.

bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy

Surgery to remove both ovaries and fallopian tubes.

bile

A substance produced by the liver and stored in the gall bladder. It helps the digestive system break down fats from food.

bile duct

One of a series of tubes that carries bile from the gall bladder through the liver to the bowel. See also common bile duct.

biochemical function

The way the body works internally. There are thousands of reactions occurring every day in cells and organs to keep people alive and functioning. Medicines, including drugs, herbs and dietary supplements, affect internal functioning, just as food does.

biological-based therapies

In the complementary therapy industry, a term covering therapies such as herbal remedies, vitamins and other dietary supplements, which are taken internally and can affect the body’s way of working.

biological therapies

A range of medicines made from purified versions of chemicals that are naturally made in the body. They include monoclonal antibodies and immunotherapy. Also called biotherapies.

biopsy

The removal of a sample of cells or tissue from the body for examination under a microscope to help diagnose a disease.

biosimilar drugs

Removal of tissue for examination under a microscope to diagnose a disease.

biospecimen

See tissue.

biphasic

Mesothelioma that is made up of both epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells. These make up about 25% of all cases of mesothelioma. Also called mixed mesothelioma.

Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHD)

A rare disorder that causes benign tumours of the hair follicles and may increase the risk of kidney tumours.

bisphosphonate

A group of drugs that slow down or prevent bone breakdown.

bladder

The hollow muscular organ that stores urine. It is located in the pelvis.

bladder irrigation

Putting saline (salt water) into the bladder through a catheter to wash out blood and blood clots.

bladder reconstruction

The surgical creation of a new bladder from part of the bowel. The main types of bladder reconstruction are urostomy (ileal conduit), neobladder and continent urinary diversion.

blast cells

Immature blood cells. Blast cells in the myeloid family are called myeloblasts. Blast cells in the lymphoid family are called lymphoblasts.

blinded trial/study

A trial in which participants do not know if they are receiving the control or the experimental treatment.

bloating

A full, uncomfortable feeling in the abdomen.

blood

A watery body fluid that flows through the circulatory system. Blood comprises plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

blood brain barrier

Membrane that surrounds and protects the brain. It prevents harmful substances passing into the brain from the blood.

blood cancer

A broad term for cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow and lymphatic system.

blood clot

A thickened lump of blood.

blood count

A test that counts the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in the blood.

blood test

A test to look for abnormalities in the blood. A complete blood count checks the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

blood transfusion

The process of transferring donated or stored blood and blood products into the bloodstream.

BMI (body mass index)

A way to find out if a person is a healthy weight for their height.

body-based practices (bodywork)

A range of therapies that involve touching the body or the energy field surrounding the body.

body image

How you feel about yourself and what you think when you look at yourself.

bone marrow

The soft, spongy material inside bones. Bone marrow produces stem cells that become red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

bone marrow aspiration

The removal of a small amount of bone marrow liquid (aspirate) with a needle for examination under a microscope.

bone marrow biopsy (trephine)

The removal of a small amount of bone marrow tissue with a needle for examination under a microscope.

bone marrow transplant

A type of stem cell transplant that uses healthy stem cells collected from the bone marrow.

bone marrow trephine

See bone marrow biopsy

bone scan

A technique to create images of bones on a computer screen. A small amount of radioactive dye is injected into a vein. It collects in the bones and is detected by a scanning machine.

borderline tumour

A type of ovarian tumour that is not considered cancerous.

botanical medicine

See herbal medicine.

bowel

The term bowel often refers to the large bowel, which includes the colon and the rectum.

bowel cancer

Cancer of the large bowel; also known as colorectal cancer, colon cancer or rectal cancer.

bowel movement

Defecation. To pass waste matter from the bowels.

bowel obstruction

When the bowel is blocked and waste matter cannot pass through easily.

bowel preparation

The process of cleaning out the bowel (removing faeces) before a test or scan to allow the doctor to see the bowel more clearly.

Bowens disease

An early form of skin cancer that looks like a red, scaly patch on the skin. See squamous cell carcinoma in situ.

Bowen therapy

A non-invasive bodywork technique involving light hand movements over the body to release tension.

brachytherapy

A type of internal radiation therapy in which sealed radioactive sources are placed inside the body, close to or inside the cancer. May be temporary or permanent.

BRAF gene mutation

A non-inherited gene change which can signal cancer cells to multiply.

brain stem

Connects the cerebrum and the spinal cord. Controls life-supporting functions.

brand name

The name given to a medicine by the manufacturer.

BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation

A gene change that increases the risk of getting breast, ovarian or prostate cancer.

Breslow thickness

A description of a melanoma’s thickness in millimetres from the top layer of the skin to its deepest point in the skin.

breakthrough pain

A brief and often severe pain that occurs even though a person is taking pain medicine regularly.

Breast

The gland in a woman that produces milk. The breast is made up of fat, connective tissue and lobes converging to the nipple.

Breast care nurse

A registered nurse specially trained to provide information and support to people diagnosed with breast cancer.

breast-conserving surgery

Surgery that removes a breast lump without removing the entire breast. Also called a lumpectomy or wide local excision.

Breast ducts

The canals within the breast that pass milk from the lobules to the nipples.

Breast form

The term used by manufacturers for a breast prosthesis.

Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA–ALCL)

A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system that is associated with some types of breast implants.

Breast mound

The shape of a reconstructed breast.

Breast oedema

Swelling caused by too much fluid in the breast tissue.

Breast prosthesis (plural: prostheses)

An artificial breast worn inside a bra or attached to the body to re-create the shape of a natural breast. Also called a breast form.

Breast reconstruction

Surgery to rebuild the breast shape after the breast, or part of it, is removed.

Breast reduction

Reducing the size of the breast using surgery.

Breast surgeon

A surgeon who performs breast surgery and biopsies; some breast surgeons also perform breast reconstruction and plastic surgery.

Breathlessness

The sensation of shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Also called dyspnoea.

Breslow thickness

A description of a melanoma’s thickness in millimetres [from the top layer of the skin to its deepest point in the skin].

Bronchiole[s]

The smallest airways (tubes) that carry air into the outer part of a lung.

Bronchiolo-alveolar cell carcinoma

A type of non-small cell lung cancer.

bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchi caused by bacteria or viruses.

Bronchoscope

A thin, lighted (fibre-optic) tube that is inserted into the windpipe through the mouth and throat.

Bronchoscopy

A test that uses a flexible tube with a light and camera to examine the airways and lungs and take tissue samples.

Bronchus (plural: bronchi)

The large airway or tube that carries air into a lung.

B symptoms

The symptoms of fever, night sweats and weight loss, which are sometimes caused by lymphoma.

Budget

A detailed plan that shows how much money you have coming in and how much money you spend during a specific time period.

Bulk-bill

When a doctor bills Medicare directly and accepts the Medicare benefit as full payment.

Bullying

Repeated, unreasonable behaviour that causes a risk to your health and safety.

Bush medicine

Remedies and ways of healing used traditionally by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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C

CA125 

A protein found in the blood that is often higher than normal in women with ovarian [uterine] cancer. 

CA19-9 

A chemical marker produced by some types of cancer, which can be found in the blood. It is sometimes raised in people with pancreatic or stomach cancer. 

cachexia  

Loss of body weight and muscle mass, causing weakness. 

caecum 

The pouch at the start of the large bowel that receives waste from the small bowel. 

calcitonin 

A hormone produced by the thyroid that controls calcium levels in the blood. 

calories 

See energy. 

cancer 

Uncontrolled growth of cells that may result in abnormal blood cells or grow into a lump called a tumour. These cells may spread throughout the lymphatic system or bloodstream to form secondary (metastatic) tumours. 

cancer of unknown primary 

A diagnosis given when doctors find a secondary cancer in the body, but tests don’t show where the cancer first started growing (the primary site). Also known as metastasis of unknown origin (MUO), metastatic malignancy of unknown primary, or occult primary cancer. 

cancer-related cognitive impairment 

Thinking and memory problems that may be experienced after cancer treatment, including difficulty concentrating and focusing. Also called chemo brain or cancer fog. 

cancer specialist 

A doctor who specialises in the study and treatment of people with cancer. May be a medical oncologist, surgeon, radiation oncologist or haematologist. 

cancer survivor 

A person from the time of their diagnosis with cancer.  

cannabinoid  

A chemical in marijuana that acts on certain cells in the body. The main active ingredient is delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 

cannabis  

The dried leave and flowering tops of the cannabis plant. Cannabis contains active chemicals called cannabinoid. Also called marijuana. 

cannula 

A small plastic tube inserted into a vein or narrow opening in the body so that fluids can be introduced or removed. 

capacity 

Having the ability to make decisions and understand the impact of them, and be able to think things through to make decisions. 

capillary 

The smallest blood vessels in the body. 

capsular contracture  

A build-up of fibrous or scar tissue around a breast implant, which makes the breast feel firm. It can cause discomfort and pain and may change the shape of the breast. 

capsule  

A protective layer of scar tissue that naturally forms around a breast implant, which can become thick and tight. This may lead to capsular contracture. 

CAR T-cell immunotherapy 

Treatment in which your own T-cells are modified so they are better able to find and attack abnormal cells in the body. 

carbohydrate  

The part of food made of sugars and starches. Carbohydrates are a good source of energy (kilojoules/calories) for the body. 

Main sources include grains such as rice, wheat, corn, barley, rye, oats, starchy vegetables (potato and sweet potato), lentils and peas. Products made from these grains, such as breads, cereals and pasta, are also major sources of carbohydrates.  

carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) 

A protein found in the blood of some people with bowel cancer. 

carcinogens  

A substance known to cause and/or promote cancer.  

carcinoid syndrome 

A variety of symptoms, such as diarrhoea, wheezing and flushing of the face, that may occur in patients with carcinoid tumours. 

Carcinoid tumour 

A type of neuroendocrine tumour that most commonly occurs in the appendix, small intestine, lung, kidney, colon or pancreas. 

carcinoma 

A cancer that starts in the cells lining the skin and internal organs of the body (epithelial cells). 

carcinoma in situ  

A cancer that starts in the tissue lining the skin and internal organs of the body. 

carer 

A person providing unpaid care and support to someone who needs this assistance because of a medical condition, disability, mental illness or ageing.  

CAR T-cell therapy 

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy. A process that involves taking T-cells from a person’s own body and then giving them back after modifying them to boost their ability to fight cancer. 

cartilage 

Firm, flexible connective tissue found in the thyroid gland and other parts of the body, such as the respiratory tract and ears. 

case control study 

See retrospective studies. 

cashing out annual leave 

When an employee takes payment for accrued annual leave instead of time off.  

casual employee  

An employee who does not have regular or guaranteed hours of work. They are normally paid on an hourly or daily basis and are not entitled to paid leave or termination notice periods.  

catheter  

A hollow, flexible tube through which fluids can be passed into the body or drained from it. [A urinary catheter drains urine.] 

cautery 

A treatment technique that uses electric current to stop bleeding. See electrodessication. 

cells 

The basic building blocks of the body. A human is made of billions of cells that perform different functions. 

cellulitis 

An infection of the skin. It can occur after lymph glands have been removed. 

central line  

A type of central venous access device used to give direct access to a vein in the chest or neck. 

central nervous system 

The brain and the spinal cord. 

central venous access device (CVAD) 

A type of thin plastic tube inserted into a vein. The CVAD gives access to a vein so fluid or chemotherapy can be given, and blood can be taken. [Types of CVADs include port-a-caths and PICC lines. .] 

cerebellum 

The part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement, balance and posture.  

cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) 

Clear, watery fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. 

cerebrum 

The largest, upper part of the brain. It is divided into right and left hemispheres, which each have a frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal lobe.  

cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 

Abnormal changes in the surface layers of the cervix. These changes are not cancer but are precancerous cells. Also called dysplasia.  

cervical screening test 

A test that checks cells taken from the cervix for HPV. Replaced the Pap test.  

cervical smear 

See cervical screening test.  

cervix 

The lower part of the uterus that connects the uterus to the vagina. Also called the neck of the uterus. 

checkpoint inhibitor 

A drug that allows the immune system to pass “checkpoints” set up by the cancer to block the immune system. 

checkpoint immunotherapy 

The use of drugs that work by helping the immune system to recognise and attack the cancer. 

check-up 

A medical appointment involving tests and scans after treatment has finished. Also known as a follow-up. 

chemistry 

The study of matter (such as atoms and ions) and how it changes and reacts to other matter. 

chemoembolisation 

An alternative to standard chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is injected into the tumour directly, so stronger drugs can be used without creating as many side effects. 

chemoradiation 

Treatment that combines chemotherapy with radiation therapy. Also called chemoradiotherapy. 

chemo or cancer brain  

Memory and cognitive problems sometimes experienced following cancer treatment, including difficulty concentrating and focusing. 

chemotherapy  

A cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. May be given alone or in combination with other treatments. Chemotherapy can also be used as a palliative treatment to reduce the size of the cancer and help lessen pain. Systemic chemotherapy circulates throughout the body, while intravesical chemotherapy is put directly into the bladder. 

chemotherapy pump 

A portable device that delivers a controlled amount of chemotherapy. It is usually attached to a central line. It allows a person to have chemotherapy at home. The pump is carried around a person’s waist in a bag or belt holster. 

chest cavity 

The area enclosed by the ribs, that includes the lungs (covered by the pleura) and the heart. Also known as the thoracic cavity.  

Cheyne-Stokes breathing 

Irregular breathing pattern of loud, deep breaths and long pauses. 

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy 

See CAR T-cell therapy. 

Child-Pugh score 

A scoring system used to measure how well the liver is working based on the level of damage caused by cirrhosis. 

Chinese herbal medicine 

The use of herbs originating from Asia to help strengthen vitality, overcome illness and improve patient outcomes. 

Chinese medicine 

A broad system of holistic health care originating in Asia, which includes therapies such as herbal medicines, acupuncture, acupressure, qi gong and tai chi. It is based on the belief that vital energy known as qui flows through the body’s meridians (channels). This keeps a person’s spiritual, emotional and physical health in balance.  

cholangiocarcinoma 

Primary liver cancer that starts in the cells lining the bile duct. Also called bile duct cancer. 

cholangiogram  

X-ray images of the bile duct and pancreatic duct. 

chromosome 

A threadlike structure found in all body cells (except red blood cells). Chromosomes are made up of strings of proteins called genes. 

chronic disease 

An illness or disease that is long lasting. 

chronic disease management plan 

A treatment plan made by a GP and shared with other treating health professionals. May also help with referrals and costs.  

chronic leukaemia 

A slow-growing leukaemia that starts in the bone marrow and produces large numbers of abnormal white blood cells.  

chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) 

A slow-growing leukaemia in which too many abnormal lymphocytes (white blood cells of the lymphoid family) are found in the blood and bone marrow. 

chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) 

A slow-growing leukaemia in which too many abnormal granulocytes (white blood cells of the myeloid family) are found in the blood and bone marrow. 

chronic pain 

Pain that can range from mild to severe and lasts a long time, usually more than 3 months. Also known as persistent pain.  

cirrhosis 

A condition in which healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue. 

C-KIT mutation 

A non-inherited gene change that can tell cancer cells to multiply. 

Clark level 

A number (1–5) that describes how many layers of skin a melanoma has gone through. 

classical Hodgkin lymphoma 

The most common type of Hodgkin lymphoma. It has 4 subtypes: nodular sclerosis, mixed cellularity, lymphocyte-rich, and lymphocyte-depleted. 

classification 

Performing tests to work out the subtype of the leukaemia. 

clear cell carcinoma 

A type of endometrial cancer. 

clear margin 

When the surrounding tissue removed during surgery for cancer does not contain any cancer cells. 

climax 

The peak of sexual response. Also known as orgasm. 

clinical research 

Research that focuses on people’s health and medical care. 

clinical trial 

A research study that tests new approaches to prevention, screening, diagnosis or treatment, to see if they are better than current approaches. 

clitoris  

The main sexual pleasure organ for females. It is made up of erectile tissue with rich sensory nerve endings and becomes erect during arousal or when stimulated. 

code of conduct 

A list of professional rules that health care providers must follow so that patients receive safe, fair and ethical health care.  

coeliac disease 

A benign digestive disease that affects nutrient absorption. 

coeliac plexus block 

Pain medicine that is injected into the nerves at the back of the abdomen to block pain. 

coffee enema 

An alternative therapy that involves inserting coffee into the anus to open the bowels and cleanse the colon. It claims to remove toxins from the body, but can be dangerous. 

cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) 

A common type of counselling that helps people change how they respond to negative situations or emotions by identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviours.  

cognitive rehabilitation 

Therapies to improve cognitive skills, such as concentration, memory, problem-solving and language skills. 

cohort study 

See prospective studies. 

cold cap 

A cap that is connected to a cooling system and worn on the head during chemotherapy to help prevent hair loss. 

colitis  

Inflammation of the inner lining of the colon and rectum (large bowel). 

colectomy 

An operation in which cancerous areas of the colon are cut out and the healthy parts are sewn back together. Colectomies are named for the part removed. They include right and left hemicolectomies; and sigmoid, subtotal and total colectomies, and proctocolectomy. 

colon 

The main working area of the large bowel, where water is removed from solid waste matter. Its 4 parts are the ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon and sigmoid colon. 

colon cancer 

Cancer that develops in the main part of the large bowel, the colon. 

colonic J-pouch 

An internal pouch surgically created using the lining of the large bowel to increase the capacity of the “new” rectum.  

colonoscopy 

An examination of the large bowel with a camera on a flexible tube (colonscope), which is passed through the anus. 

colorectal cancer 

See bowel cancer. 

colostomy 

A surgically created opening (stoma) in the abdomen to the outside of the body. It is made from the colon (part of the bowel). Also, the operation that creates this stoma. 

colposcope 

An instrument that enables the doctor to see a magnified view of the cervix, vagina and vulva from outside the body. 

colposcopy  

Examination of the cervix, vulva and vagina from outside the body with a colposcope (a magnifying instrument). See also vagninoscopy and vulvoscopy. 

common bile duct 

The tube through which bile travels from the liver and gallbladder to the bowel. 

community nurse 

A nurse who provides health care to people in their homes and communities, and may coordinate their palliative care. Community nurses usually work for local health services. 

complementary therapy 

Any of a range of therapies used alongside conventional treatment to improve general health, wellbeing and quality of life. Helps people cope with cancer symptoms and treatment side effects.  

complete blood count (CBC) 

A test to check the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in a sample of blood. 

complete remission 

When there is no evidence of active cancer. This may not mean that the cancer is cured. 

complete response 

The disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment.  

complicated grief 

When a person feels ‘stuck’ in grief for a prolonged period and finds it hard to manage the tasks of daily living. Sometimes occurs after a traumatic death or when the relationship with the person who died was complicated. 

complications 

Unexpected problems that affect the patient during or after surgery. Most are minor, but some can be serious. 

conceive 

To create an embryo by fertilising an egg. 

conciliation 

See mediation. 

cone biopsy 

The removal of a cone-shaped piece of the cervix for examination under a microscope. Also called conisation. 

conformal radiation therapy 

A treatment technique where the radiation beams are shaped to overlap (conform to) the shape of the tumour. 

congenital defect (birth defect) 

A problem that happens while a baby is still developing in the womb. This may affect how the body looks and/or functions. 

consent 

When you agree to something. 

consolidation chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy given once a remission is achieved. 

constipation 

Difficulty passing a bowel motion regularly or often. 

continence 

Ability to control urination and bowel movements. 

continent urinary diversion 

A surgical procedure that uses a piece of bowel to form a pouch to store urine. The urine is emptied through an opening (stoma) on the surface of the abdomen. 

contraception 

Deliberate measures to prevent pregnancy as a result of sexual intercourse (e.g. condom use, the pill). 

contraindication 

A medical condition or symptoms that would cause a person to have a bad reaction to a treatment. 

contrast  

A substance injected into a vein or taken orally before a scan (such as a CT or MRI scan), which helps make pictures clearer. Also called a contrast medium, agent or dye. 

control 

Existing treatment that is being compared with a new treatment in a clinical trial. The control is generally the best standard treatment available. 

control group 

A group of patients that is compared with a group receiving the experimental treatment. In a clinical trial, the control group receives the control treatment. 

controlled release morphine 

An opioid medication (one of the strongest pain relievers) that lasts for 8 to 12 hours. 

controlled trial 

A trial that compares 2 or more treatments to find out which is more effective. 

control treatment 

The existing treatment that is being compared with the experimental treatment. The control is generally the best standard treatment available. In some cases, a placebo is used. 

conventional cancer treatment 

Scientifically proven treatments for cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy and pharmaceutical medications. 

cordectomy 

Surgery to remove a vocal cord. 

cording 

Tight cords of tissue running down the inside of the arm. Cording can occur weeks or months after breast or axillary surgery. Also known as axillary web syndrome. 

core [needle] biopsy 

A type of biopsy where a tissue sample is removed (e.g. from an organ or lymph node) with a wide needle for examination under a microscope. Also called core needle aspiration. 

core stability 

The muscles in the stomach and lower back that stabilise the body during movement. 

corpus callosum 

A thick band of nerve fibres that connects the left and right hemispheres of the brain and transfers information between them. 

corticosteroids 

A class of drugs that are mostly used to reduce inflammation and have been found to be effective in treating myeloma. 

counselling 

A process of talking through personal issues with a trained professional to help you explore options and develop strategies. 

course 

A period of radiation therapy treatment. 

CRAB criteria 

A set of myeloma-defining events used to help identify people who need treatment. The letters stand for the events: C = calcium elevation; R = renal damage; A = anaemia; B = bone abnormalities. Often combined with the SLiM criteria to form the SLiM-CRAB criteria. 

craniectomy 

An operation to open the skull by removing some bone to access the brain. The bone is not replaced due to swelling. 

craniofacial resection 

 See skull base surgery. 

cranio-pharyngioma 

A type of benign brain tumour. 

craniotomy 

An operation to open the skull to reach the brain. Similar to a craniectomy, but the bone is replaced afterwards. 

creditor  

A person or business you owe money to. May also be known as your lender.  

credit provider  

A company or institution, such as a bank, building society, department store or car dealer, that offers to lend you money. Also called lender or creditor.  

credit rating  

An estimate of a person’s ability to fulfil financial commitments, based on their borrowing and repayment history.  

credit report  

A report that details your credit history, including every time you have applied for credit or not made a repayment on time (defaulted). It is held by a credit reporting agency.  

credit reporting agency  

An organisation that collects credit information on individuals and companies. 

Crohn’s disease 

A benign type of inflammatory bowel disease that may increase a person’s risk of developing bowel cancer. 

cryopreservation 

A process that freezes cells, tissue, semen or other substances.  

cryotherapy 

The process of freezing and destroying cancer cells. Also called cryosurgery.  

CT-guided core biopsy 

A procedure that uses CT to guide the biopsy needle to an area and remove a sample. 

CT scan 

A computerised tomography scan. This scan uses x-rays to create a detailed, cross-sectional picture of the body. 

curative treatment 

Treatment given with the aim of causing signs and symptoms of cancer to reduce or disappear. Also known as definitive treatment. 

curettage 

The surgical removal of skin cancer/a growth using a small, spoon-shaped instrument with a sharp edge called a curette. 

cutaneous melanoma 

Melanoma that starts in the skin. 

cutaneous T-cell lymphoma 

A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that affects the skin. 

cycle 

A period of chemotherapy treatment that is repeated on a regular schedule with periods of rest in between. 

cystectomy 

Surgical removal of part of the bladder (partial cystectomy) or all of the bladder and surrounding lymph nodes (radical cystectomy). In males, the prostate, urethra and seminal vesicles are sometimes removed. In females, the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, urethra and part of the vagina are often removed. 

cystic astrocytoma 

A type of benign brain tumour. 

cystitis 

Inflammation of the bladder lining and urinary tract, usually caused by a bacterial infection. 

cystoscope  

A thin viewing instrument with a light and camera that is inserted into the urethra and advanced into the bladder. The cystoscope may be flexible or rigid. 

cystoscopy 

A procedure that uses a cystoscope, a thin tube with a light and camera, to examine the vagina, cervix, bladder and/or rectum. It can remove tissue samples or small tumours. It is performed under a general anaesthetic. 

cytogenetic test 

A test that checks whether cells have an abnormality in their chromosomes. 

cytokines 

Proteins that activate the immune system. Cytokines are used in immunotherapy. 

cytology 

The study of cells. 

cytoreduction 

See debulking. 

cytoreductive nephrectomy 

The surgical removal of the kidney. This technique is used when cancer has spread.  

cytostatic 

A substance (e.g. targeted therapy) that blocks the growth of cancer cells. 

cytotoxic [drug] 

A substance (e.g. chemotherapy) that is toxic to cells, so it can kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. 

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D

dam 

A silky thin sheet of latex used by people of any gender when having protected oral sex. Also known as dental dam. 

da Vinci system 

A robotic technology that allows a surgeon’s hand movements to be translated into tiny precise movements during keyhole surgery.  

debt  

Money you owe. 

debulking 

Surgery to remove as much of a tumour as possible. This makes it easier to treat the cancer that is left and helps to increases the effectiveness of other treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy. 

debt consolidation  

When several debts are combined into one, with the aim of reducing repayments. Also known as loan consolidation.  

debtor  

A person or business that owes you money.  

debt release  

The cancelling of a debt, in whole or in part. Also called debt relief or debt waiver. 

decortication 

Surgical removal of any tumours from the surface of a layer of connective tissue covering the lung, chest wall and diaphragm to allow the lung to re-expand. 

deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) 

A deep blood vessel that passes through the abdominal wall to supply blood to the skin and fat of the lower abdomen. 

deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap 

A type of flap reconstruction that uses blood vessels called deep inferior epigastric perforators along with fat and skin but no muscle. 

deep vein thrombosis (DVT) 

A blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the leg or pelvis, often caused by immobility after surgery or long-distance travel. 

default judgment  

The automatic judgment made when you do not respond to a statement of claim or appear at a court hearing. Without a hearing and without notifying you, the court will order that you must pay the money claimed by the creditor.  

deferred payment  

When a debt does not need to be repaid until some point in the future. 

delayed reconstruction 

Reconstructing the breast shape at some time after the initial breast cancer surgery.  

delirium 

A disturbed mental state that can have a range of physical causes and can involve: a lower level of consciousness; memory loss; seeing things that aren’t there; mood swings; and sleep disturbances. It is sometimes experienced near the end of life. 

dendritic cells 

Specialised cells that are part of the immune system. 

dendritic cell vaccine 

A vaccine that may be used to treat melanoma that has spread beyond the skin.  

denial 

Refusing to accept the truth about something. Denial can give you time to adjust to a situation but can cause harm if it lasts too long. 

dependence 

When stopping the drug causes physical withdrawal symptoms. 

depression 

Very low mood and loss of interest in life, lasting for more than 2 weeks. It can cause physical and emotional changes. 

dermatologist 

A specialist doctor who diagnoses, treats and manages skin conditions, including skin cancer and non-cancerous skin spots.  

dermis 

The lower layer of the 2 main layers that make up the skin.  

descending colon 

The left side of the colon. 

desmoid tumour 

A type of tumour that develops in fibrous tissue covering some organs and muscles. 

desmoplastic melanoma 

A rare type of melanoma of the skin. 

diabetes 

A condition in which sugars are not taken up in the body properly because the pancreas does not make enough of the necessary hormone (insulin), or the body has become resistant to the effect of insulin. Diabetes may be a risk factor for some types of cancer. 

diagnosis  

The identification and naming of a person’s disease. 

diaphragm 

A dome-like sheet of muscle that divides the chest cavity from the abdomen and is used in breathing. 

diarrhoea  

When you have runny or watery faeces (stools or poo) and need to go to the toilet very frequently. 

DIEP flap reconstruction 

A deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstruction. This operation is similar to a free TRAM flap reconstruction, but the abdominal muscle is not used and no mesh is required for abdominal support. 

dietary fibre 

The part of edible plants that can’t be digested. Foods containing fibre include wholegrain cereals and breads, fruit and vegetables, beans, dried peas, legumes, nuts and seeds. Most fibre is contained in the outer layer of grains and therefore can be removed by refining and processing.  

dietary supplement 

Nourishment given to increase the nutritional intake of kilojoules/calories (energy), vitamins and minerals. 

diethylstilboestrol (DES) 

 A synthetic hormone drug identified as a cause of vaginal cancer. It was sometimes given to women to prevent miscarriage from the 1950s–1970s. 

dietitian 

A university-qualified health professional who supports and educates patients about nutrition and diet during treatment and recovery. Also known as an Accredited Practising Dietitian. 

diffuse large B-cell lymphoma 

A fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that starts in the lymph nodes in the neck, groin or armpit. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia can turn into diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. 

digestion  

The breaking down of food in the stomach and bowel so the nutrients can be used by the body. Food is digested as it moves through the mouth, stomach and bowel. 

digestive system 

The body system that processes food and drink, absorbs nutrients and disposes of solid waste. Also called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. 

digital rectal examination (DRE) 

An examination in which a doctor slides a gloved finger into the anus to feel for abnormalities of the anus, rectum or prostate. 

dilatation 

A type of medical procedure. An object (dilator) is inserted into the oesophagus to stretch the wall and widen the opening.  

dilation and curettage (D&C) 

A procedure that involves opening (dilating) the cervix and using a surgical instrument called a curette to scrape out the lining of the uterus (endometrium). 

direct discrimination 

When someone is treated less favourably because of a disability, such as cancer. 

disability discrimination  

When, because of their disability, a person is harassed or treated less favourably than someone without a disability in the same or similar circumstances. Under law, cancer is considered a disability. 

distal pancreatectomy  

Surgery to remove tumours in the tail and body of the pancreas. 

distress 

A feeling of emotional, mental, social or spiritual suffering. Distress may range from feelings of vulnerability and sadness to stronger feelings of depression, anxiety, panic and isolation. 

DNA 

A tiny molecule in every cell of the body that carries instructions for how that cell behaves and functions. Also called deoxyribonucleic acid. 

donor egg 

An egg that is given to another person and used to conceive a baby. 

donor sperm 

Sperm that is given to another person and used to conceive a baby. 

dose 

The amount of medicine that a person should take at one time. 

double-blind trial 

A trial in which neither the patient nor their research team know what treatment the patient is receiving. This is done to reduce bias. 

drug therapy  

Treatment that uses drugs to treat cancer. It may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy or hormone therapy. May also be known as systemic therapy/treatment.  

dry needling 

A technique that involves inserting an acupuncture needle into and around a trigger point to break up muscle tension. 

dry orgasm 

Sexual climax without the release of semen from the penis (ejaculation). 

duct  

An enclosed tube or passage in the body. 

ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) 

Abnormal cells in the breast ducts that may increase the risk of developing invasive breast cancer. 

ducts 

The canals within the breast that pass milk from the lobules to the nipple. 

dumping syndrome 

When partially digested food moves into the small bowel too quickly, causing symptoms such as cramps and dizziness.  

duodenum 

The first section of the small bowel. 

dysarthria 

Difficulty speaking clearly. 

dyspepsia 

Heartburn or indigestion. 

dysphagia 

Difficulty swallowing. 

dysphonia 

Difficulty producing voice. 

dysplasia 

See cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). 

dysplastic naevus (plural: naevi) 

A mole with an irregular shape and uneven colour. 

dyspnoea 

The medical term for difficulty breathing. Also called breathlessness. 

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E

early breast cancer 

Cancer that has not spread beyond the breast or the axillary lymph nodes. 

early menopause 

See premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).  

early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC) 

Chemotherapy given soon after surgery as a single course and delivered directly into the abdomen through a thin tube. May be used after a peritonectomy. 

Eastern medicine 

A broad term for therapies that began in Asian countries like China, Japan and India. These therapies are generally not based on scientific evidence but have been used for centuries. 

echocardiogram 

An ultrasound scan of the heart to check its function. Also called a cardiac echo or cardiac ultrasound. 

ectocervix 

The outer surface of the part of the cervix that opens into the vagina. 

egg  

See ovum 

egg harvesting 

The collection of eggs through the vagina, using ultrasound guidance. 

ejaculation 

When semen passes through the urethra and out of the penis during orgasm. 

electrodesiccation 

A technique that uses heat to stop bleeding after curettage. Also called cautery. 

electrolyte 

A substance in the body that conducts electricity. 

electrotherapy  

Applying mild electric currents to the body to stimulate nerves and reduce pain, e.g. transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). 

eligibility criteria 

Characteristics of the people who are suitable for a particular trial. 

embolisation 

Cutting off the blood supply to a cancer by blocking the blood vessels. 

embryo 

The earliest stage of development after the egg is fertilised by sperm. 

emergency care plan 

A document that provides direction and instructions to allow someone else to provide the care that you would usually provide. 

empathise 

To understand the feelings of someone else. 

emphysema  

A benign (non-cancerous) condition in which the alveoli of the lungs are enlarged and damaged. It reduces the lung’s surface area, causing breathing difficulties. 

en-bloc resection 

Removing organs as a whole. 

endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) 

A type of bronchoscopy that uses a flexible tube with a small ultrasound probe to examine the airways and lungs and take tissue samples.  

endocervix 

The inner surface of the cervix. Also called the cervical canal. 

endocrine gland 

A gland that releases hormones that control the amount of sugar in the blood. 

endocrine system 

The system of the body that is made of glands that produce hormones. 

endocrine tumour 

A rare type of tumour affecting the glands that produce hormones. 

endocrinologist 

A doctor who specialises in treating people with disorders of the endocrine system. 

end-of-life care 

Health care provided in the final days and hours of life.  

end-of-life doula 

An end-of-life doula works with other professionals, family and friends in a non-medical role providing services in home, palliative care unit, hospital and aged care settings. They provide emotional support, resources, education and companionship to the dying person and their family, friends and carers.  

endometrial biopsy 

Removing cells from the lining of the uterus with a long, thin tube called a pipelle. 

endometrial cancer 

Cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It is the most common type of cancer of the uterus. 

endometrial hyperplasia 

An abnormal increase in the number of cells in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).  

endometrial sampling 

Taking a biopsy of the lining of the uterus to test for cancer or other conditions. 

endometrial stromal sarcoma 

A type of uterine sarcoma. 

endometrioid cancer 

The most common type of endometrial cancer. 

endometrium 

The lining of the uterus (womb). 

endorectal ultrasound (ERUS) 

In this scan, a probe that generates soundwaves is inserted into the rectum. A picture of the rectum is built up from the echoes of the soundwaves. 

endoscope 

A flexible tube with a light and camera on the end. It is used during diagnostic tests known as endoscopies (e.g. to examine the stomach or oesophagus).  

endoscopic resection (ER)  

A type of procedure for early-stage stomach or oesophageal cancer. Tissue is removed using an endoscope. 

endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) 

A procedure that uses an endoscope to examine the pancreas and bile ducts. The doctor injects dye into the organs and creates x-ray pictures of the organs. 

endoscopic sinus surgery  

A type of surgery for cancers that can be accessed through the nasal cavity. Tissue is removed using a flexible tube with a camera on the end (endoscope) and no surgical cuts need to be made. 

endoscopic stent placement 

The use of an endoscope to place a small, thin tube into a bile duct to unblock it and reduce symptoms of jaundice. 

endoscopic surgery 

A type of surgery for cancers that can be reached through the nose or mouth. Tissue is removed using a thin flexible tube with a fine cutting instrument and a camera on the end (endoscope). 

endoscopic ultrasound 

A diagnostic test. An endoscope with a probe on the end is inserted into the body. The probe releases soundwaves that are translated into a picture on a computer screen. 

endoscopy 

A type of internal examination or diagnostic test. A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) is used to examine the inside of the body. When used for checking the nose and throat area, the procedure may be called a nasendoscopy or flexible laryngoscopy. Or called a gastroscopy when used to examine the stomach and oesophagus. 

endpoint 

What a clinical trial is trying to measure or find out. It is important that the goals for clinical trials are clearly defined in advance. Typical endpoints include measurements of toxicity, response rate and survival. 

enduring power of attorney/enduring power of guardianship 

A legal document prepared by a lawyer that lets a person appoint someone they trust to act on their behalf if and when they become unable to make decisions for themselves. May cover financial, 

property, lifestyle and treatment decisions. 

enema 

A liquid solution put into the rectum to wash out the lower bowel. 

energy (kilojoules or calories) 

Energy is counted in kilojoules or calories and provides fuel for our daily activities. Energy is obtained from food and drink. [Different amounts of energy are found in different foods; some may be high in energy, while some may be low in energy.] 

energy field  

Vital force or life force called qi. Energy is believed to surround the body in an energy field, as well as running along invisible meridians inside the body. 

energy therapies 

Therapies based on the concept of energy or vital force surrounding or running through the body. 

engraftment 

The process by which transplanted stem cells develop into new blood cells.  

enteral feeding tube  

A fine flexible plastic tube used to insert food directly into the stomach if a person is unable to eat. 

enteritis 

Inflammation of the inner lining of the small bowel. 

enternal nutrition 

Receiving all or part of daily nutrition requirements through a feeding tube. 

enzymes 

Proteins that aid digestion and are essential for the normal functioning and performance of the body.  

ependymoma 

A type of brain or spinal cord tumour that starts in the ependymal cells. 

epidemiology 

The study of how and why diseases occur in different populations. 

epidermis 

The top, outer layer of the 2 main layers that make up the skin.  

epididymal aspiration 

Inserting a needle into the epididymis under anaesthetic to extract sperm. 

epididymis 

A tightly coiled tube located at the back of each testicle. It stores immature sperm and connects the testicle to the spermatic cord, which contains the vas deferens 

epidural 

An injection of anaesthetic drugs into the spinal column.  

epiglottis 

The small cartilage flap that prevents food from going into the windpipe (trachea) when a person swallows. 

epithelial abnormality 

Changes in the cells of the cervix. 

epithelial ovarian cancer 

Cancer that starts in the surface of the ovary (epithelium).  

epithelioid 

A type of mesothelioma. The cells resemble normal mesothelial cells of the mesothelium.  

epithelium 

Layers of cells covering internal and external surfaces of the body. 

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) 

A common human virus in the herpes family that may increase a person’s risk of developing some types of cancer. Also called glandular fever or infectious mononucleosis. 

ERCP 

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. A procedure used to check the pancreas and bile duct, or insert a stent.  

erectile dysfunction (ED) 

When you can’t get or keep an erection firm enough for penetration. Also called impotence.  

erection 

An enlarged, rigid penis (sexual excitement). 

erogenous zones 

Areas of the body that respond to sexual stimulation or touch. 

erythrocytes 

Red blood cells, which carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. 

erythroplakia  

A red velvety spot or patch in the mouth that may be precancerous. 

essential fatty acids  

Types of fat in food that are necessary for good health. 

essential oil 

Aromatic oil extracted from different parts of plants, such as seeds, bark, flowers and leaves.  

establishment fee  

A one-off fee that may be charged when you set up a personal or other loan. 

ethics 

The study of moral values or principles, including responsible conduct and what is fair. 

ethics committee 

A committee that reviews the plans and other paperwork relating to a research study to make sure it is safe and ethical. 

ethmoid sinuses 

Sinuses located above the nose and between the eyes. 

EUS 

Endoscopic ultrasound. A test using an endoscope with an ultrasound probe on the end. 

euthanasia 

The act or practice of deliberately ending the life of a person suffering from a terminal illness or incurable condition. It is illegal in Australia. 

evidence-based medicine 

When health care providers make decisions based on research studies that measure how well a particular treatment works. 

excess 

The amount you pay towards your hospital admission before your private health insurer pays a benefit. 

excision 

A surgical procedure to remove diseased tissue. The surgeon may cut out the cancer and some tissue around it. 

excision biopsy 

A type of biopsy where a lump or area of abnormal tissue is surgically removed, usually so it can be looked at under a microscope.  

executor 

Person responsible for carrying out the terms of a will. 

exercise physiologist 

A university-trained professional who prescribes exercise to help people with medical conditions improve their overall health, fitness, strength and energy levels. Also known as Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP). 

exocrine gland 

A gland that releases substances through a duct. 

exocrine tumour  

A tumour that starts in the cells that make pancreatic enzymes that aid digestion. More than 95% of pancreatic tumours are exocrine tumours, and most of these are adenocarcinomas.  

experimental treatment 

A new or modified treatment that is being tested in a clinical trial. 

exploratory laparotomy 

A type of laparotomy surgery in which the surgeon looks in the body for evidence of disease by taking a tissue sample (biopsy). 

external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) 

Radiation therapy delivered to the cancer from outside the body. 

external dispute resolution (EDR)  

A free independent service to help resolve disputes – an alternative to going to court. 

external genitalia  

The collective term for the external genitals (reproductive organs). In men, it includes the penis, scrotum and testicles. In women, it is known collectively as the vulva and includes the clitoris, labia minora, labia majora and mons pubis. 

external prosthesis 

An artificial body part that is worn on the outside of the body, such as a breast form.  

extramammary Paget’s disease 

A precancerous condition of the vulva. It may have an associated cancer at diagnosis or may develop into cancer. 

extranodal lymphoma 

Advanced lymphoma that has spread from the lymph nodes to other places in the body.  

extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) 

Surgery to remove the affected lung, plus parts of the lining of the heart (pericardium), lining of the chest (parietal pleura) and the diaphragm and the lining of the chest (parietal pleura) on the affected side. 

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F

facial nerve  

A major nerve in the skull that controls muscle movement in the face. It runs through the parotid gland. 

faecal incontinence 

Inability to control bowel movements, resulting in accidental loss of faeces. 

faecal occult blood test (FOBT) 

A test that checks stool for microscopic traces of blood. 

faeces 

Waste matter that normally leaves the body through the anus. Also known as stools or poo. 

fallopian tubes  

Two thin tubes that form part of the female reproductive system. The tubes carry sperm from the uterus to the ovaries, and eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. 

familial 

A genetic condition that can be inherited or “passed down” through generations of a family. 

familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) 

A condition that causes hundreds of polyps to form in the large bowel. The polyps will become cancerous if untreated. 

familial cancer centre  

Provide genetic counselling and other services for people with a family history of cancer. 

familial medullary cancer 

A hereditary type of medullary thyroid cancer. 

fasting 

Not eating any food.  

fatigue  

Extreme feeling of tiredness and lack of energy that doesn’t go away with rest. 

fat necrosis 

Damaged or dead tissue. 

fatty liver disease 

A build-up of fats in the liver than can damage the organ. 

FDG-PET 

Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography scan. A person is injected with a low-level radioactive solution (fluorodeoxyglucose or FDG) that helps to show up cancer cells on a PET scan. 

feeding tube 

A flexible tube used to provide liquid nutrition to people unable to swallow.  

Feldenkrais method 

A system of gentle movements that encourage self-awareness to improve movement and posture.  

female reproductive system 

The tissues, glands and organs involved in producing children. This includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina and vulva (external genitals). 

fenestrated tracheostomy 

A type of tracheostomy tube with an opening to allow air to flow through the voice box. 

fertility 

The ability to conceive a child. 

fertility preservation 

Procedures used before cancer treatment to help people remain fertile. 

fetus 

An unborn human more than 8 weeks after conception. 

fibre 

The part of plant foods that cannot be digested. It helps the body move food through the digestive system. 

fibroids 

Benign (non-cancerous) growth in the muscle layer of the womb. 

fibrous tissue  

Tissue developed at a wound site that forms a scar. 

financial counsellor 

A person who gives free, confidential and independent assistance to people with financial problems. Financial counselling services are usually provided by community or welfare organisations.  

financial planner 

A person or authorised representative of an organisation licensed by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to provide advice on some or all of these areas: investing, superannuation, retirement planning, estate planning, risk management, insurance and taxation. 

fine needle aspiration (FNA) 

A type of biopsy where a sample of cells is removed with a thin needle for examination under a microscope. Also called a fine needle biopsy. 

first-line treatment 

The initial treatment used to target cancer. 

five-year survival rate 

The percentage of people alive 5 years after diagnosis. 

flap reconstruction  

A type of breast reconstruction that uses muscle, fat and skin from other parts of the body, such as the abdomen or back, to build a breast shape.  

flatulence 

Wind or gas (farting) from the digestive system. 

flat urothelial carcinoma 

A tumour that grows flat on the bladder wall. 

flexibility 

The range of movement in a joint (e.g. knee) or series of joints (e.g. leg). 

flexible sigmoidoscopy 

A procedure in which a doctor inserts a colonoscope or sigmoidoscope into the anus to examine the rectum and lower colon. 

flexible working arrangements 

Work practices that allow an employee to change their work conditions to suit them, e.g. changing hours or patterns of work.  

fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) 

A test that uses special dyes to look for abnormal chromosomes. 

flower remedies 

Natural medicines extracted from flowers and diluted several times so that no active ingredient remains. Also known as flower essences. 

follicle 

A cavity in the ovary that contains a maturing egg. 

follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) 

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It regulates the function of both the ovaries and testicles. 

follicular cells 

One of the 2 main types of cells that make up the thyroid. They produce and store the thyroid hormones T3 and T4, and make the protein thyroglobulin (Tg). 

follicular lymphoma 

A slow-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that affects the B-cells. The cancer cells grow in circular groups called follicles. 

follicular thyroid cancer 

The second most common type of thyroid cancer, developing from the follicular cells. 

follow-up 

Appointments with doctors or other health professionals to follow your progress after your treatment. 

foodborne illness 

Illness caused by eating food that contains bacteria, viruses or parasites. 

foreclosure  

When a lender (e.g. a bank) begins the legal process of recovering an unpaid home loan debt (mortgage) by forcing the sale of the house or land. 

fostering 

When an adult takes responsibility for a child, but does not have legal parental status. 

fraction 

The individual, usually daily, dose of radiation that makes up part of a course of radiation therapy. 

fractionation 

The process of delivering radiation therapy in a series of small doses over several treatment sessions. 

free flap 

Tissue transplanted from one site of the body to another. 

frequency 

How often medicine is taken, or treatment given. 

frontal lobe 

Part of the cerebrum; responsible for thinking (cognition), planning and problem-solving (executive function), emotions and personality, and body movement (motor function). 

frontal sinuses 

Sinuses located behind the forehead. 

fulguration (cautery)  

A treatment technique that uses electric current to destroy tissue by heat. 

full blood count (FBC) 

A test that measures the number, size and maturity of each type of blood cell. Sometimes called a complete blood count. 

functioning tumour 

A type of neuroendocrine tumour that secretes (releases) hormones that cause symptoms. 

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G

gallbladder 

A small, pear-shaped organ on the underside of the liver that stores bile. 

gallium scan 

A test using a weak radioactive substance, gallium, which shows where the cancer has spread. 

Gamma Knife 

A type of stereotactic radiosurgery 

gamete 

A cell that fuses with another during fertilisation (e.g. an egg or sperm). 

gap fee  

The difference between the Medicare Benefits Schedule fee and the doctor’s fee. This will be what you pay. 

gastrectomy 

The surgical removal of part, or all of the stomach. 

gastric juices 

Acidic juices in the stomach that help to break down food. 

gastric stromal tumours 

Cancer of the stomach’s connective tissue and muscle.  

gastrin 

A hormone released from cells in the lining of the stomach after eating. Gastrin causes the stomach to release an acid that helps digest food. 

gastrinoma 

A pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour. It makes and releases (secretes) abnormal amounts of a hormone called gastrin. 

gastroenterologist 

A doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system. 

gastrointestinal (GI) tract 

The passage from the mouth to the anus that allows a person to digest food and get rid of waste. The lower GI tract includes the colon, rectum and anus. The upper GI tract includes the oesophagus and stomach. 

gastro-oesophageal junction 

The point where the stomach meets the oesophagus. 

gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) 

A condition when stomach acid leaks back into the oesophagus, causing irritation. This is caused by the muscle at the end of the oesophagus not closing properly. 

gastroscopy 

See endoscopy. 

gastrostomy tube  

A feeding tube inserted directly into the stomach through the abdomen. 

gated heart pool scan 

A test that shows how the heart is working and how much blood is pumped through the heart. 

Geiger counter 

An instrument used to measure radiation levels. 

gender/gender identity 

The sense of whether you are a man, woman, non-binary, agender, genderqueer, genderfluid, or a combination of one or more of these definitions. Gender can be binary (either a man or a woman), or non-binary (including people who have no binary gender and people who have some binary gender/s). 

general anaesthetic 

See anaesthetic. 

general practitioner (GP) 

A doctor in general practice. Assists you with treatment decisions and works in partnership with other specialists in providing ongoing care. 

general surgeon 

A specialist doctor trained in a variety of minor surgical procedures. 

generic name 

The name given to a type of medicine based on its key (active) ingredient. 

genes 

The microscopic units that determine how the body’s cells grow and behave. Genes are found in every cell of the body and are inherited from both parents. 

gene therapy 

Treatment aimed at correcting or interfering with a genetic abnormality causing cancer. 

genetic counsellor 

A health professional who has been trained in genetics and counselling. 

genetic marker 

A gene or DNA sequence associated with a particular characteristic. 

genetic testing  

Genetic testing aims to detect faulty genes or gene changes that may increase the risk of developing certain cancers.   

genitals 

The sexual organs. Often used to mean the external sexual organs.  

genomic assay 

A test that provides information about the risk of the cancer coming back and whether chemotherapy will be of benefit. Also called a molecular assay. 

genomic panel 

A test that checks a number of genes at once to look for patterns of changes. 

germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) 

A non-invasive condition that may turn into testicular cancer. Previously known as intratubular germ cell neoplasia (ITGCN). 

germ cell ovarian cancer 

Ovarian cancer that begins in the cells that eventually develop into eggs. 

germinal (germ) cells 

Cells that produce eggs in females and sperm in males. Germ cell cancers can occur in the ovaries and testicles. 

Gerson therapy/Gerson diet 

An alternative nutritional therapy based on pure fruit and vegetable juices and coffee enemas that claims to detoxify the body, but can be dangerous. 

glands  

Specialised organs or groups of cells that make various fluids that are used in the body or excreted (eliminated). 

glandular cell 

Cells that release mucus, hormones or other substances.  

Gleason score 

A way of grading prostate cancer.  

glial cell 

A type of nervous system cell that surrounds and holds neurons in place; nourishes them; and gets rid of dead cells and germs. Also called neuroglia. 

glioblastoma 

A type of high-grade astrocytoma. Previously known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). 

glioma 

A brain tumour that begins in the glial cells. Types of glioma include astrocytoma, glioblastoma, oligodendroglioma and ependymoma. 

glossectomy 

The surgical removal of part or all of the tongue. 

glottis  

The part of the larynx containing the vocal cords. 

glucagon 

A hormone that increases blood sugar levels. 

glucagonoma 

A pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour that releases too much of the hormone glucagon. 

glucose supplement 

A type of sugar. A good source of energy (calories/kilojoules) that often tastes less sweet than sugar. 

gluteals 

The muscles that make up the bottom. 

goitre 

An enlarged thyroid, from either nodules or an autoimmune disease. 

gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) 

Long-acting hormone produced in the brain that tells the pituitary gland to release sex hormones, which is turn stimulate the ovaries and testicles.  

gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue  

Synthetically produced long-acting hormone that mimics the naturally produced GnRH, and which is used to slow or stop the function of the ovaries. 

grade 

A score that describes how quickly a tumour is likely to grow. 

Grade Group system 

A way of grading prostate cancer on a scale of 1 to 5, with higher numbers indicating faster-growing cancer. 

graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) 

A possible complication of an allogeneic stem cell transplant. GVHD happens when immune cells in the transplanted tissue (the graft) attack the cells of the person receiving the transplant (the host). 

granulocyte 

A type of white blood cell of the myeloid family that helps fight infections. There are 4 kinds of granulocytes: neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils and mast cells. 

granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF)  

A growth factor drug used to help the body make more stem cells so they can be collected for a transplant or to increase the number of white blood cells if they are low. It helps the bone marrow produce more neutrophils to reduce the risk of infection. It is given either as an injection or through a drip into the bloodstream (intravenously). 

grief 

The way we process and adjust to loss, e.g. when someone dies. Grief can affect all parts of your life. 

groin 

The area between the abdomen and thigh on either side of the body. The adjective is inguinal (e.g. inguinal hernia). 

growth factor 

A protein that stimulates the development and growth of cells. 

guided imagery 

A type of meditation in which a person is led through imagining a series of scenes that promote healing thoughts in order to achieve peace and relaxation. 

gynaecological cancers 

Cancers of the female reproductive system. They include cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers. 

gynaecological oncologist 

A gynaecologist who specialises in treating women diagnosed with cancer of the reproductive organs. 

gynaecologist  

A doctor who specialises in treating diseases of the female reproductive system.  

gynaecomastia 

Enlargement of male breast tissue. Often referred to as ‘man boobs’. It can be a symptom of testicular cancer. 

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H

haematologist  

A doctor who specialises in studying and treating diseases of the blood, bone marrow and lymphatic system. 

haematoma  

A collection of blood that clots to form a solid swelling. 

haematuria  

Blood in the urine. 

haemochromatosis 

A condition that causes the body to absorb more iron than usual from food. 

haemorrhoids  

Enlarged blood vessels on or just inside the anus, usually caused by periods of constipation.  

hair follicle 

The sac in which hair grows. 

hamstrings 

The muscles on the back of the leg between the knee and the hip. 

harassment  

Any form of behaviour, including a one-off incident, that is unwelcome; offensive, humiliating, threatening or intimidating. Harassment is considered discrimination if it occurs because of a person’s disability.  

hardship variation  

A formal process where you ask your credit provider to vary the terms of your loan contract because you are temporarily unable to make the loan repayments. 

healing touch 

The use of soft touch or passing hands over the body. It claims to restore harmony and balance by working with the flow of vital energy in the body.  

health care team 

A group of health professionals who are responsible for treating a person who is sick. This may also be called the multidisciplinary team (MDT). 

heartburn (indigestion) 

A sensation of tightness or burning in the chest. Heartburn is caused by stomach acid being released back up into the oesophagus and throat (reflux). 

heart rate 

The number of times the heart beats in a minute. Also called pulse. 

heated intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) 

Chemotherapy in which the drugs are heated and inserted directly into the abdomen for 60-90 minutes during a peritonectomy. Sometimes called “hot chemotherapy”. 

heavy chains 

Long chains of proteins in an antibody. 

Helicobacter pylori 

Bacteria that can live in the stomach and small bowel and may lead to stomach ulcers and cancer. Also called H. pylori. 

helical tomotherapy 

A type of highly targeted external beam radiation therapy that uses a machine that rotates around you. 

hemihepatectomy 

Surgery to remove one lobe of the liver. 

hemilaryngectomy 

Surgery to remove the left or right half of the larynx. 

hemithyroidectomy 

The surgical removal of part of the thyroid gland. Also called a partial thyroidectomy. 

hepatectomy 

Surgery to remove all or part of the liver. Removing part of the liver is called a partial hepatectomy. Removing a whole lobe is called a hemihepatectomy. Removing a small section is called a segmentectomy. 

hepatic arterial infusion 

Chemotherapy delivered directly through a tube into the artery to the liver. 

hepatic artery 

The main blood vessel carrying blood from the heart to the liver. 

hepatic encephalopathy 

A build-up of toxins in the body, which can affect brain function. 

hepatitis 

Inflammation in the liver, usually caused by a virus. 

hepatobiliary surgeon 

A surgeon who specialises in surgery to the liver and surrounding organs, such as the gallbladder. 

hepatoblastoma 

A rare type of primary liver cancer that affects young children. 

hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) 

A type of primary liver cancer that starts in the main cells in the liver, which are called hepatocytes. HCC is the most common type of primary liver cancer. 

hepatocyte 

The main cell type in the liver; makes up about 60% of the liver. 

hepatologist 

A gastroenterologist who has further specialised in diseases of the gallbladder and liver. 

HER2 

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. A type of protein that is involved in cell growth. 

herb 

A part of a plant, such as leaves, flowers, roots or berries, used for food, medicine or aromatic oil. 

herbal medicine 

The use of herbs taken by mouth or applied to the body to treat and prevent illness, and to strengthen the body. Also known as botanical medicine. 

hereditary 

Passing from one person to another (parent to offspring) through the genes. 

hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) 

A disease affecting the lower GI tract. HNPCC may be a risk factor for bowel cancer. Also called Lynch syndrome. 

hernia  

When an organ or tissue sticks out (protrudes) from its usual location due to a weakness of the muscle surrounding it. 

Hickman line 

A type of central venous access device inserted into a vein in the chest. 

high-grade bladder cancer 

A fast-growing cancer that that is more likely to spread into the bladder muscle and outside the bladder. 

high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma 

A fast-growing cancer that starts in the cells of the lymphatic system. 

high-grade tumour 

A fast-growing (grade 3 or 4) brain or spinal cord tumour. May be called a malignant tumour or brain cancer. 

high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) 

A type of treatment for localised prostate cancer that uses soundwaves (ultrasound) to 
heat and destroy tissue. It may be used for patients who are unsuitable for surgery or radiation therapy. 

histology 

The study of body tissues and cells under a microscope. 

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) 

The virus that causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). 

Hodgkin lymphoma 

One of the 2 main groups of cancer of the lymphatic system. Also called Hodgkin’s disease. 

holistic care 

Care of the whole person. It can include different types of therapies and services to ensure that a person’s physical, emotional, spiritual and practical needs are met. Palliative care is one type of holistic care. 

homeopathy 

Based on the idea of treating “like with like”. Treats disease with very small amounts of natural substances that in larger amounts would produce symptoms of the disease.  

hormone receptors 

Proteins in a cell that bind to specific hormones. 

hormone replacement therapy (HRT)  

See menopause hormone therapy (MHT).  

hormone resistance 

When cancer cells that usually grow in the presence of a hormone keep on growing despite the absence of that hormone. 

hormones 

Chemicals in the body that send information between cells. Hormones control many of the body’s functions, including how people grow, develop and reproduce. 

hormone therapy/treatment 

A treatment that blocks the body’s natural hormones, which sometimes help cancer cells grow. It may be used when the cancer is growing in response to hormones. Also called endocrine therapy or hormone-blocking therapy.  

hospice 

A place that provides comprehensive care for people with a life-limiting illness. This may include inpatient medical care, respite care and end-of-life care for people who are unable or prefer not to die at home. Also known as a palliative care unit. 

HPV test 

A test that can detect the human papillomavirus (HPVk or HPV). 

human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) 

A hormone made by the body in early pregnancy. This hormone may also be produced by some types of cancer. 

human papillomavirus (HPV) 

A group of viruses that can cause infection in the skin surface of different areas of the body, including the genital area. HPV is a risk factor for some cancers, including almost all cervical cancers and some head and neck cancers. Also called the wart virus.  

human resources (HR)  

The section of an organisation that deals with employees and issues relating to employees, e.g. work health and safety, leave, recruitment, grievance handling, staff training.  

hydrocephalus 

A build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. 

hyperbaric treatment  

Involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised room or tube. 

hypercalcaemia 

Higher than normal levels of calcium in the blood. 

hyperfractionated radiation therapy 

Receiving 2 or more radiation treatments each day, Monday to Friday, during a designated treatment period. 

hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) 

Chemotherapy in which the drugs are heated and inserted directly into the abdomen for 60-90 minutes during a peritonectomy. 

hyperthyroidism 

A benign condition that occurs when the thyroid produces too many hormones. Also known as overactive thyroid. 

hyperviscosity 

A syndrome triggered when blood thickens and starts to circulate more slowly. Symptoms include blurred vision, confusion, headaches and dizziness. Hyperviscosity may occur if myeloma cells release large amounts of paraprotein into the blood. 

hypnotherapy 

A type of counselling. The practitioner induces a deep relaxation to allow the patient’s subconscious (inner) mind to communicate its thoughts with their conscious (aware) mind.  

Hypofractionation 

Divides the radiation therapy course into fewer fractions of larger radiation doses. 

hypogonadism 

When the testicles are unable to produce enough testosterone.  

hypopharyngectomy 

The surgical removal of part of the lower throat.  

hypopharynx 

The lowest part of the back of the throat. Also called the laryngopharynx. 

hypospadias 

A birth defect in which the opening of the urethra is not in its normal place. 

hypothalamus gland 

An endocrine gland in the brain that controls the release of hormones from the pituitary gland. It produces a type of thyroid-stimulating hormone.  

hypothesis 

An explanation or guess based on limited evidence that serves as a starting point for research. 

hypothyroidism 

A benign condition that occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Also known as underactive thyroid. 

hysterectomy 

The surgical removal of the uterus. A total hysterectomy also removes the cervix. 

hysterectomy 

The surgical removal of the uterus. See also total hysterectomy. 

hysteroscopy 

A procedure to look inside the uterus using a device called a hysteroscope, a long tube with a tiny light and camera.  

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I

I-131 

See radioactive iodine. 

ICG test 

A test using dye injected into the blood to see how well the liver is working. The dye is called indocyanine green (ICG). 

ileal conduit 

A small passage created from a piece of bowel and connected between the ureters and a stoma on the abdomen wall. It takes the place of the bladder, allowing urine to flow through it and the stoma into a bag on the outside of the body. 

ileoanal anastomosis 

A surgical procedure that creates a colonic J-pouch, which stores stool and acts as a rectum. 

ileostomy 

1. A surgically created opening (stoma) in the abdomen to the outside of the body. It is made from the ileum (part of the small bowel).  

2. The name for the operation that creates this stoma. 

ileum 

The lowest section of the small bowel; transfers waste to the large bowel. 

image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) 

The use of imaging techniques, such as x-ray or CT scans, at the start of each radiation therapy session to guide the radiation beam during treatment. 

immediate reconstruction 

Reconstructing the breast shape at the same time as the initial breast cancer surgery. 

immediate release medicine 

A medicine that releases quickly and lasts only 30 minutes. 

immobilisation device  

A device, such as a mask, breast board or cushion that helps keep a person in the same position during radiation therapy. 

immune cells 

White blood cells (leukocytes). 

immune system 

A network of cells and organs that defends the body against attacks by foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. Includes the lymphatic system. 

immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT) 

A test that checks faeces for tiny amounts of blood. 

immunoglobulin (Ig) 

A protein that is produced by plasma cells and fights infections. There are 5 main types: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM. They are also known as antibodies. 

immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IRT) 

A treatment often given to boost your antibody levels if you have repeated infections. 

immunohistochemistry 

A technique that uses antibodies to identify specific proteins called antigens in cells of a tissue sample. 

immunology 

A branch of medicine that studies the immune system, which helps fight off disease in the body. 

immunomodulators 

Drugs that interact with the immune system to attack cancer cells in a number of different ways. Thalidomide, lenalidomide and pomalidomide are immunomodulators that are used in the treatment of myeloma. 

immunophenotyping 

A test that looks for certain markers on the surface of cells.  

immunosuppressant 

A medicine that reduces the actions of the immune system. 

immunotherapy 

Drugs that use the body’s own immune system to fight cancer.  

implant  

An artificial device that is surgically inserted into the body to replace an organ or tissue that has been damaged or removed, such as a breast. Also called an internal prosthesis. 

implant reconstruction  

A type of breast reconstruction that reconstructs the breast by inserting an implant under or above the chest muscle.  

impotence 

See erectile dysfunction (ED). 

incision 

A cut made into the body during surgery. 

income protection insurance  

A type of insurance that can help you manage your expenses if you are unable to work for a certain amount of time. If you claim this type of insurance, you are usually paid a proportion of your salary for the period you are unable to work or a specified time. Also called salary continuance insurance.  

income stream  

A series of regular payments from your superannuation made directly to you by your fund. Sometimes called a superannuation pension. 

incontinence 

The accidental or involuntary loss of urine (wee or pee) or faeces (poo). Also known as urinary incontinence or urinary leakage. 

Indigenous medicine 

In Australia, remedies and ways of healing used traditionally by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

indirect discrimination 

When a policy, rule or practice that seems fair actually disadvantages a person with a disability, such as cancer. 

indolent or low-grade lymphoma 

A slow-growing cancer that starts in the cells of the lymphatic system. 

induction chemotherapy 

The first chemotherapy treatment used to make further treatments (surgery or radiation therapy) more effective. 

indwelling catheter 

A hollow, flexible tube that can be inserted into the urethra. Fluids can be passed into the body or drained from it. Also called Foley catheters. 

indwelling pleural catheter 

A soft thin tube inserted into either the pleural or peritoneal cavity to help drain a build-up of pleural fluid. Sometimes called an indwelling drain. 

infertility 

The inability to conceive a child, or difficulty conceiving after trying for 12 months if under 35, or 6 months if over 35. 

inflammatory bowel disease 

A benign condition that causes inflammation of the bowel. 

inflammatory breast cancer 

Cancer that develops in the lymphatic vessels in the skin of the breast. Rather than forming a lump, it causes the breast to become red and swollen. 

inflatable tissue expander  

A balloon-like bag designed to expand the skin. It is placed under the skin during an operation and filled gradually by injecting saline into it over a number of weeks. 

informed consent 

Receiving and understanding all relevant information, such as potential risks, before agreeing to or declining medical treatment. Also legal process by which a patient is given detailed information about a study before they agree to become involved. 

informed financial consent 

Receiving and understanding all relevant information about the likely cost of treatment. 

infusaport 

See port-a-cath. 

infusion 

A slow injection of a substance into a vein or other tissue. Or, a herbal remedy prepared by steeping dried herbs in hot or boiling water. 

inguinal hernia 

A bulge in the groin caused when some bowel or fatty tissue comes out through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. 

inguinal lymph node dissection 

Surgical removal of lymph nodes from the groin area. 

inherent requirement 

A task, duty, responsibility, or element that is an essential part of a job. 

inoperable 

Not able to be removed with surgery. Also called unresectable. 

inpatient 

A person who stays in hospital while having treatment. 

insemination 

The deliberate injection of semen with the aim of getting pregnant. 

insolvency  

The inability to pay your debts as they fall due.  

insomnia 

Inability to get to sleep, or stay asleep, for a prolonged period of time. 

instalments  

Small parts of a debt that are paid at set times, as agreed with your lender. 

instillation 

When chemotherapy drugs are put directly into the bladder using a catheter. 

Insulin 

A chemical messenger (hormone) released by the pancreas to regulate the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. If the body does not produce enough insulin, diabetes will develop. 

insulinoma 

A type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour that releases too much insulin. 

insurance  

A contract between a company and an individual that guarantees a payment in the case of covered events.  

integrative medicine  

See integrative oncology. 

integrative oncology 

The combined use of evidence-based complementary therapies and conventional medicine to holistically care for cancer patients. Also known as integrative medicine. 

intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) 

A highly accurate type of external beam radiation therapy that shapes and divides multiple radiation beams into many beamlets that vary in strength.  

interaction 

An effect that occurs when 2 or more substances react with each other. 

interest rate  

The rate that a lender charges a borrower for the use of the loan. This is usually expressed as a percentage of the total amount loaned. 

Interferon [interferon alfa] 

A substance that occurs naturally within the body and which enhances the immune system’s fight against viruses.  

internal prosthesis 

See implant. 

internal radiation therapy 

Radiation therapy delivered to the cancer from within the body. Brachytherapy is the most common type of internal radiation therapy. Other types include radionuclide therapy and SIRT (selective internal radiation therapy). 

interneuron 

A type of neuron that connects other neuron cells in the brain and spinal cord. 

intersex 

A term used to describe a person born with anatomical, reproductive or chromosomal characteristics that are not typically female or male. 

intervention 

What is being tested in a clinical trial. Examples of interventions include drugs, medical devices, surgical methods, tests and behavioural interventions. 

interventional radiologist 

A doctor who specialises in using imaging scans to diagnose cancer and delivers some treatments. 

They may perform a biopsy under ultrasound or CT, and deliver selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT). 

intimacy 

Being physically and emotionally close to someone. 

intolerance 

Inability to digest a particular food properly. 

intracranial pressure 

Increased pressure in the skull caused by a brain tumour taking up too much space or blocking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, or by swelling after surgery. 

intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) 

An in-vitro fertilisation procedure in which a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. 

Intramuscular injection 

An injection into a muscle. 

intraperitoneal chemotherapy 

A technique of administering chemotherapy into the abdominal cavity via injection into the peritoneum. 

intrascrotal haematoma 

Blood that collects in the scrotum. 

intrathecal chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy drugs that are delivered through a lumbar puncture. 

intrathecal injection 

An injection into the fluid-filled space that surrounds the spine. 

intratubular germ cell neoplasia (ITGCN or IGCN) 

See germ cell neoplasia in situ. 

intrauterine insemination (IUI) 

Depositing sperm directly into the uterus to increase the chances of conceiving. Also called artificial insemination. 

intravenous (IV) 

Injected into a vein.  

intravenous chemotherapy  

Chemotherapy delivered into a vein through a drip or pump.  

intravenous infusion 

A slow injection of a substance into a vein. 

intravenous pyelogram 

A radiological procedure used to see abnormalities of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters and bladder. 

intravesical chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy that is put directly into the bladder through a tube. It is often used for treating non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. 

intravesical immunotherapy 

When the immunotherapy drug known as BCG is put directly into the bladder through a tube (catheter).  

invasive breast cancer 

Cancer that has spread from the lining of the breast ducts or lobules into the surrounding breast tissue. 

invasive cancer 

Cancer that has spread deep into tissues at the primary site, and/or to other parts of the body. 

invasive ductal carcinoma 

Cancer that started in the milk duct but has spread into the breast tissue around them. 

invasive lobular carcinoma 

Cancer that began in the milk lobules but has spread into the breast tissue around them. 

Invasive skin cancer 

Cancer that has grown deeper into the skin beyond the epidermis. May invade blood vessels, nerves and nearby tissue.  

investigator 

Another term for a researcher. Can be a coordinating principal investigator (over multiple sites) or a coordinating investigator at one site. 

in vitro 

Laboratory experiments that are done using scientific equipment, such as test tubes and dishes. 

In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) 

When an egg is fertilised with sperm in a laboratory then eventually implanted into a woman’s body. One of the main treatments for infertility. 

in vivo 

Experiments that are done using a living organism, such as an animal or human. 

iodine 

An element that allows the thyroid to produce hormones. Iodine is found in foods such as seafood, iodised table salt, eggs and some breads. 

irresectable 

Not able to be surgically removed. Also called unresectable. 

isthmus 

The band of tissue that connects the 2 lobes of the thyroid. 

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J

jaundice 

A condition caused by high levels of a substance called bilirubin in the blood, which can occur when the bile ducts are blocked or the liver is not working properly. Jaundice causes yellow, itchy skin; the whites of the eyes to turn yellow; pale stools (poo); and dark urine.  

jejunum 

The central section of the small bowel. 

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K

keratinocyte 

A cell that makes up most of the epidermis. Types include squamous cells and basal cells. 

keratinocyte cancer 

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). See non-melanoma skin cancer. 

keratosis (plural: keratoses) 

A red, scaly spot on the skin that is a sign of sun damage to the skin. Also called a sunspot. 

keyhole surgery 

Surgery done through small cuts in the body using a thin viewing instrument with a light and camera. Also called laparoscopic, minimally invasive or robotic surgery. 

kidneys 

A pair of organs in the abdomen that remove waste from the blood and make urine. They also produce hormones that stimulate red blood cell production and control calcium levels. 

kilojoules 

See energy. 

Klinefelter syndrome 

A genetic disorder in males caused by having 2 X chromosomes (XXY) instead of 1 (XY).  

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L

labia 

The lips of the vulva.  

labia majora  

The outer lips of the vulva.  

labia minora  

The inner lips of the vulva, which join at the top to cover the clitoris. 

laboratory 

Place where experiments are carried out and new medicines developed. 

laboratory research 

Research that is carried out in a laboratory. See also basic research. 

lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) 

A chemical found in the blood of some people with either seminoma or non-seminoma testicular cancer. 

lactose 

A type of sugar found in milk and some milk products. Lactose is digested by an enzyme found in the digestive system called lactase. 

lactose intolerance  

Occurs when people have trouble breaking down lactose. A person with lactose intolerance may be able to digest dairy products that are low in lactose, such as hard cheeses. 

lamina propria 

A layer of tissue and blood vessels surrounding the inner layer of the bladder (urothelium). 

laminectomy 

Surgery that involves cutting into the spinal column and removing some bone; allows biopsy or removal of a spinal cord tumour. 

langerhans cell 

A type of cell that makes up the skin’s epidermal layer. 

laparoscope 

A thin viewing instrument with a light and camera that is inserted through a cut (incision) in the abdomen to look inside the abdomen and pelvis during laparoscopy. 

laparoscopy/laparoscopic surgery 

Surgery done through small cuts in the abdomen using a viewing instrument called a laparoscope. Also called keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery. 

laparotomy 

A type of open surgery in which a long cut is made in the abdomen to examine and remove internal organs. 

large bowel 

Part of the lower digestive system. The large bowel stores waste until it leaves the body as faeces. Its main sections are the colon and rectum. Also called the large intestine. 

large cell undifferentiated carcinoma 

A type of lung cancer that usually develops in the airways and is characterised by large, rounded cells. The cells are not clearly squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. 

large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) 

A procedure to remove cervical tissue for examination and to treat some precancerous changes of the cervix. Also called loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). 

laryngectomy 

The surgical removal of the larynx. In a partial laryngectomy, part of the larynx is removed. In total laryngectomy, the whole larynx is removed. 

laryngopharyngectomy 

The surgical removal of the larynx and most of the pharynx. 

laryngopharynx 

See hypopharynx. 

laryngoscopy 

A procedure that allows the doctor to closely examine the back of the throat, including the larynx and pharynx. See also endoscopy and microlaryngoscopy. 

larynx 

The voice box. The larynx is part of the throat that contains the vocal cords and connects the throat with the windpipe.  

laser surgery 

Using a laser beam to remove tissue and treat some precancerous changes of the cervix. 

late effects 

Side effects of cancer treatment that occur several months or years after treatment has been completed. 

latency period/interval 

The interval between exposure to a cancer-causing material and the clinical appearance of disease. 

lateral rhinotomy 

A cut along the edge of the nose to access the nasal cavity and sinuses. 

latissimus dorsi (LD) flap 

A type of flap reconstruction that reconstructs the breast shape using the latissimus dorsi muscle. 

latissimus dorsi muscle  

A broad, flat muscle in the back. 

laxative 

A medicine that stimulates bowel movements and relieves constipation. 

left hemicolectomy 

A type of colectomy where tissue is removed from the left side of the colon. 

leiomyosarcoma 

A type of uterine sarcoma. 

lentigo maligna melanoma 

A type of melanoma that starts as a large freckle (lentigo maligna). It makes up about 10–15% of melanomas. 

lesion 

An area of abnormal tissue. 

leukaemia 

A cancer of the white blood cells, usually causing large numbers of white blood cells to be made. 

leukopheresis 

A procedure to quickly reduce white blood counts to a safe level. 

leukocytes 

White blood cells.  

leukoplakia 

A white spot or patch in the mouth that may be precancerous. 

LGBTQI+ 

A commonly used acronym referring to those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, or other sexualities, as well as people with an intersex variation.  

libido 

Sex drive and sexual desire. 

life coaching 

A type of counselling in which a coach collaborates with the client to set goals and work out ways to change the client’s life to achieve them.  

life-limiting illness 

An illness that is unlikely to be cured and will cause death at some stage in the future. A person with a life-limiting illness may live for weeks, months or even years. 

lifestyle factors 

Factors that help give a holistic (well-rounded) picture of your health and wellbeing. These include what you eat and drink, how much you exercise, your occupation and its risks, relationships, stress and pressures in your life, and whether you smoke. 

ligament 

A band of tissue that connects bones and holds organs in place. 

light chains 

Short chains of proteins in an antibody. Often referred to as Bence Jones protein when found in the urine of people with myeloma, or as free light chains when found in their blood. 

linear accelerator (LINAC) 

A most common type of machine used to deliver external beam radiation therapy. It uses high-energy x-ray or electron radiation beams. 

lipids 

An important source of energy and some essential nutrients. More commonly known as fats and oils. 

lipofilling 

The surgical transfer of fat from one part of the body to another using liposuction. The fat is injected under the skin to improve shape and contour. 

liquid-based cytology (LBC) test 

A test that looks for cervical cell abnormalities if the cervical screening test finds HPV. Similar to the Pap test.  

liquid extract 

Herbal remedies in which the herb is extracted in concentrated form into a solution of water and alcohol. The extract is further diluted in water when taken.  

liquid nitrogen 

A substance that is applied to the skin to freeze and kill abnormal skin cells. 

literature review 

A review of the previous research that has been done on a particular area and which relates to a current problem being investigated. 

liver 

A large organ in the top right side of the abdomen. The liver plays an important role cleaning the blood and helping digestion. Its functions include making bile, which helps digestion. 

liver cancer 

Cancer in the liver. Usually refers to cancer that started in the liver (primary liver cancer). May be used to refer to cancer that spread to the liver from somewhere else in the body (secondary cancer in the liver). 

liver function test (LFT) 

A blood test to see how well the liver is working before, during and after treatment. 

lobe 

A section of an organ. For example, the left lung has 2 lobes and the right lung has 3 lobes.  

lobectomy 

An operation to remove a lobe of a lung. 

lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) 

Abnormal cells in the breast lobules that increase the risk of getting breast cancer. 

lobules 

The milk-producing glands in the breast. 

local anaesthetic 

A medicine that blocks the feeling of pain in a specific location in the body for a short time. 

local excision 

1. Surgery to remove a small tumour or lesion with a margin of healthy tissue. 
2. A type of surgery to selected small rectal cancers. The surgeon operates through the anus to remove the cancer without cutting into the abdomen.  

localised melanoma 

A melanoma that has not spread from its starting point to lymph nodes or other organs. Also known as early melanoma. 

localised prostate cancer 

Early-stage prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate gland. 

locally advanced breast cancer 

Cancer that is larger than 5 cm, has spread to tissues around outside the breast such as the skin, muscle or ribs, or has spread to a large number of lymph nodes. (e.g. to the chest or lymph nodes in the armpit.) 

locally advanced cancer 

Cancer that has spread to nearby organs or blood vessels. 

locally advanced prostate cancer  

Cancer that has spread outside the prostate to the pelvic region. 

longitudinal study 

A study done over a long period of time – often decades – with the participants being asked the same questions or having the same tests periodically to assess how their health changes over time. 

long service leave 

A type of leave that’s generally available to employees after they’ve spent a long period of time with a single employer. 

long-term casual employee 

A casual employee who has been employed by the same employer regularly and on a systematic basis for at least 12 months, and who has a reasonable expectation of continuing employment.  

loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) 

See large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ). 

low-grade bladder cancer 

A slow-growing cancer that is less likely to spread. 

low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma 

A slow-growing cancer that starts in the cells of the lymphatic system. 

low-grade tumour 

A slow-growing (grade 1 or 2) brain or spinal cord tumour. Though slow growing, can still be life-threatening. 

low intensity 

Activity that is easy and doesn’t cause much exertion. 

lumbar puncture 

A needle inserted into the base of the spine to collect fluid for testing or to inject drugs for treatment. Also called a spinal tap. 

lumpectomy 

See breast conserving surgery. 

lungs 

The 2 spongy organs in the chest. The lungs are made up of many tiny air sacs. and are used for breathing. They are part of the respiratory system. 

luteinising hormone (LH) 

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It stimulates an ovary to release an egg and testicles to make testosterone.  

lymph  

A clear fluid that circulates around the body through the lymphatic system, carrying cells that fight infection. 

lymphadenectomy 

See retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND). Removal of the lymph nodes from a part of the body. Also called a lymph node dissection. 

lymphatic drainage 

A type of specialised massage designed to stimulate the flow of lymph in the body’s tissues. 

lymphatic system 

A network of vessels, nodes and organs that removes excess fluid from tissues, absorbs fatty acids, transports fat and produces immune cells. Includes the bone marrow, spleen, thymus and lymph nodes. 

lymph fluid 

A clear fluid that circulates around the body through the lymphatic system. It carries white blood cells (lymphocytes) that help fight infection.  

lymph glands 

See lymph nodes. 

lymph node dissection 

Removal of the lymph nodes from a part of the body. Also called lymphadenectomy. 

lymph nodes 

Small lumps of tissue that collect and destroy bacteria and viruses. Found in groups throughout the body, they help protect the body against disease and infection. Also called lymph glands. 

lymphocele 

See seroma. 

lymphocyte  

A type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. Lymphocytes destroy bacteria, viruses and other harmful substances. 

lymphoedema 

Swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid. This happens when lymph vessels or nodes can’t drain properly because they have been removed or damaged. 

lymphoid 

One of the 2 families of white blood cells. The lymphoid family only produces white blood cells. 

lymphoma 

A type of blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system. There are 2 main types of lymphomas: non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma. 

lymphoscintigraphy  

A procedure in which a radioactive substance is injected into the skin to identify the sentinel lymph node. 

lymph vessels 

Thin tubes that carry the clear fluid known as lymph all over the body. 

Lynch syndrome 

A disease that increases the risk of developing uterine, ovarian and bowel cancer. Previously called hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). 

lytic lesions 

Areas where bone has been damaged.  

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M

magnetic resonance imaging scan 

See MRI scan. 

maintenance treatment 

Treatment given for months or years after the initial treatment to prevent the cancer coming back. 

malignant  

Cancerous. Malignant cells can spread (metastasise) and eventually cause death if they cannot be treated.  

malignant mesothelioma 

Cancer that starts in the mesothelial cells that line parts of the body, such as the chest cavity or abdominal cavity. 

malignant mixed Müllerian tumour 

See uterine carcinosarcoma. 

malignant transformation 

When a slow-growing tumour becomes a rapidly growing, cancerous tumour. 

malnutrition 

The imbalance of energy, protein or other nutrients in the body, which can impact health and how the body responds to cancer treatment and recovery. 

mammogram  

A low dose x-ray of the breast. 

mandible 

The lower jaw. 

mandible resection 

Removal of part of the lower jaw (mandibulectomy) or upper jaw (maxillectomy). 

mandibulectomy 

The surgical removal of part or all of the lower jaw. 

mandibulotomy 

Cutting through the lower jaw to reach the mouth or throat. 

mantle cell lymphoma 

A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that develops in the outer edge (mantle zone) of B-cells. 

manual lymphatic drainage 

A type of specialised massage in which therapists help to reduce the swelling caused by lymphoedema by manually stimulating the flow of lymph. 

margin 

The edge of tissue removed during surgery. Clear or negative margin means no cancer cells were found on the edge of the removed tissue. Positive margin means cancer cells were found on the edge of the removed tissue and further surgery is usually required.  

massage  

A bodywork therapy in which muscles are stimulated, stretched and relaxed through specialised pressure and strokes.  

massage therapist 

A person who practises therapeutic massage. They may be a member of a professional massage association and can practise independently or in a medical setting. 

mastectomy 

Surgery to remove the whole breast. In some cases, the skin and/or nipple is left behind. See nipple-sparing mastectomy and skin-sparing mastectomy. 

mastectomy bra 

See pocketed bra. 

mastopexy 

A surgical procedure to lift the breasts. 

masturbation 

Stimulation of your own or a partner’s genitals without sexual intercourse for pleasure or orgasm.  

maxilla 

The upper jaw. 

maxillary sinuses 

Sinuses located under the eyes and in the cheek bones. 

maxillectomy 

The surgical removal of part or all of the upper jaw. 

maximum heart rate 

The fastest a person’s heart can beat. 

M-band 

A paraprotein, which is a substance produced when plasma cells multiply abnormally. 

means test  

An assessment of someone’s financial situation to work out whether they are eligible for financial assistance. 

mechanical speech 

The use of a battery-powered device such as an electrolarynx to create vocal sounds. 

mediastinoscopy  

A surgical procedure that allows a surgeon to examine the lymph nodes at the centre of the chest and remove a sample, if necessary. 

mediastinum 

The area in the chest between the lungs. It contains the heart and large blood vessels, the oesophagus, the trachea and many lymph nodes. 

mediation 

An informal type of resolution using a mediator or negotiator who communicates between 2 parties to settle differences and problems. Also called conciliation. 

medical device 

A device placed in or on a person’s body to help treat a disease. 

medical intervention 

Medical tests, procedures or treatments that are aimed at relieving illness or injury, or curing disease. 

medical negligence 

When a health care provider is proven to have breached their duty of care to a patient, causing injury or personal loss. 

medical oncologist 

A doctor who specialises in treating cancer with drug therapies such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy (systemic treatment). 

medical record  

Notes about a person’s health care history (e.g. scan and test results and doctors’ recommendations). 

medical science 

An area of study focusing on maintaining health and preventing and treating disease. 

medicinal cannabis 

Cannabis that is prescribed for medical use. 

medi-list 

A list of the names, dosages and times of a patient’s medications. 

meditation  

A mind–body technique that focuses on breathing, learning to still the mind, and thinking only about the present. 

medullary thyroid cancer 

A rare type of thyroid cancer that develops from the parafollicular cells (C-cells) and may run in families. 

medulloblastoma 

A malignant brain tumour that starts in the cerebellum. 

melanin 

Dark pigment produced in melanocytes that gives skin its colour.  

melanocyte 

One of the 3 types of cells that make up the top layer of the skin. Melanocytes produce melanin.  

melanoma 

Cancer of the melanocytes. Usually appears on the skin but may affect the eye, mucous membrane (the moist lining of the mouth, digestive tract, etc.) or the nervous system. 

melanoma in situ 

An early non-invasive melanoma that is confined to the top layer of the skin (epidermis). 

membrane 

A thin layer of tissue that covers a surface, lines a cavity or divides a space or organ. 

meninges 

The thin layers of protective tissue (membranes) that surround the brain and spinal cord. 

meningioma 

A tumour that starts in the meninges of the brain or spinal cord usually benign. 

menopause 

When a woman stops having periods (menstruating). This can happen naturally; because of cancer treatment; or because the ovaries have been removed. 

menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) 

Drug therapy that supplies the body with hormones that it is no longer able to produce naturally. Previously known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 

menstruation  

A woman’s monthly bleed from the vagina. Also called periods. 

meridian 

An invisible energy channel in the body. In Chinese medicine, the body is believed to have meridians through which vital energy called qi flows to keep people balanced and healthy. 

Merkel cell 

A type of cell in the skin’s epidermal layer. 

mesh 

Reinforcing material placed in the abdominal wall during a TRAM flap reconstruction. It helps to avoid complications such as hernia. 

mesothelioma 

Cancer affecting the protective covering that surrounds some of the body’s internal organs (the mesothelium). It often occurs in the membranes of the lungs (pleura). 

mesothelium 

A membrane that lines the chest cavity (pleura) and abdominal cavity (peritoneum) and surrounds the heart (pericardium). 

metabolism 

The chemical process by which food is changed into energy in the body. 

metabolite 

The substance produced when food or drugs are broken down in the body.  

metastasectomy 

Surgical removal of tumours that have spread from cancer that started in another organ in the body. 

metastasis (plural: metastases) 

Cancer that has spread from a primary cancer in another part of the body. Also called secondary or advanced cancer. 

metastatic neck cancer with unknown primary 

Cancer that is found in the lymph nodes of the neck, but the primary location cannot be located. 

metastatic skin cancer 

Skin cancer that has spread from the skin to other areas of the skin or body.  

microinvasive cancer 

Cancer cells that have just broken through the bottom layer of the surface of the cervix. 

microlaryngoscopy 

A procedure using a stainless steel instrument called a laryngoscope to examine the throat and voice box and take a tissue sample. It is done under general anaesthetic.  

microsurgery  

Surgery on very small structures of the body using miniature instruments under a microscope. 

midface degloving 

Surgical access to the nasal cavity or sinuses using a cut under the upper lip. 

mind–body techniques  

Techniques that help people address emotional issues and other problems that have a mental component, such as anxiety, depression, stress and pain.  

mindfulness  

The quality of being present and fully engage in the present moment (“mindful”).  

mindfulness meditation 

A type of meditation based on the concept of being “mindful”. This means paying attention to the present. 

mineral oil 

A highly processed and refined colourless and odourless oil used by some massage therapists.  

minerals 

Components of food that are needed to keep the body healthy, e.g. iron, zinc and calcium. 

minimally invasive surgery 

A surgical technique that involves several small cuts instead of one large cut on the abdomen. Also called keyhole or laparoscopic surgery. 

minimal residual disease (MRD) 

Small number of leukaemia cells left behind after treatment. 

minimum payment 

The lowest amount that must be paid in each repayment period on a loan, credit card or other debt. 

mini transplant 

See reduced intensity stem cell transplant. 

mismatch repair (MMR) genes 

Genes that help the cell’s DNA repair itself. 

mitotic rate 

Measures how quickly the melanoma cells divide. 

mixed glioma 

A type of brain tumour. 

mixed mesothelioma 

A type of mesothelioma made up of both epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells. Sometimes known as biphasic mesothelioma. 

moderate intensity 

Activity that isn’t too hard, but is hard enough to be of benefit. Breathing and heart rate increase during moderate intensity activity. 

Mohs surgery  

Specialised surgery to remove skin cancers one segment at a time until only healthy cells remain. Also called microscopically controlled excision.  

mole 

See naevus. 

molecular research 

Laboratory research that focuses on discovering which genes are responsible for certain diseases and how the disease develops. 

molecular test 

A test that looks for changes in the genes involved in cancer.  

molecules 

Very small particles that can join with other molecules to form larger substances. A gene is a type of molecule. 

monoclonal antibodies (or monoclonal antibody therapy)  

A group of targeted therapy drugs that lock onto a specific protein on the surface of cancer cells and interfere with the cells’ growth or survival. 

monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis 

A blood condition that resembles chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, but is not classed as leukaemia as there aren’t enough of the abnormal cells present. It sometimes turns into chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. 

monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) 

A benign condition that affects plasma cells in the blood. This condition may increase the risk of developing cancers of the blood, such as myeloma. 

mons pubis  

In women, the area of fatty tissue above the labia. It is covered with pubic hair. 

morphine 

An opioid. A strong and effective pain reliever that is commonly used to treat people with cancer who have pain. 

motility 

The movement of sperm. 

motor neuron 

A type of neuron that causes muscle contractions in the body. 

mouth care 

Steps including teeth cleaning and swabbing to take care of the mouth before, during and after treatment and protect teeth, mouth lining and gums, reduce discomfort, and help the mouth area heal. Also used during palliative care. 

mourning 

The expression of sorrow for a loss, often influenced by cultural customs and rituals (e.g. wearing black, lowering flags to half-mast. 

mpMRI scan 

A multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging scan. It’s a type of MRI scan. 

MRCP scan 

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography scan. It is a type of MRI scan that produces more detailed pictures and can check the common bile duct for blockages.  

MRI scan 

Magnetic resonance imaging scan. A scan that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to take detailed cross-sectional pictures of the body. 

mTOR inhibitors 

Drugs that block mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), an enzyme that tells cancer cells to grow and spread.  

mucosa 

Moist tissue that lines organs of the body. The mucosal layer is the innermost layer of the oesophagus and stomach. 

mucositis 

Sores in the mouth or throat. 

mucous membrane 

A layer of tissue that is covered with a thick, slippery fluid (mucous). 

mucus 

A slippery, stringy substance lining the lungs, throat, mouth, nose and sinuses. 

Müllerian sarcoma 

A type of uterine sarcoma. 

multidisciplinary care 

A system where all members of the treatment team discuss a patient’s physical and emotional needs, as well as any other factors affecting their care. The team meets to review cases and decide on treatments. 

multidisciplinary pain clinic 

A clinic with a team of pain specialists and allied health professionals specialising in the treatment of chronic pain. 

multidisciplinary team (MDT) 

A team of health professionals who work together to discuss a patient’s physical and emotional needs and decide on which treatment to recommend. 

multileaf collimators 

Moveable pieces of metal built into the head of radiation therapy machines to shield normal tissue and organs from the radiation beam. 

multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) 

A benign condition that increases a person’s risk of developing endocrine tumours. 

muscle-invasive bladder cancer 

Cancer that has spread into or beyond the muscle layer of the bladder, and/or to other parts of the body. 

muscularis propria 

The thickest layer of tissue in the bladder; made up of muscle. Also known as the muscle layer.  

music therapy 

The use of music to improve health and wellbeing. 

mutation 

A change in a gene causing it to show a new characteristic. 

myelodysplasia 

A disease that affects the production of healthy blood cells in the bone marrow and sometimes develops into acute myeloid leukaemia. 

myeloid 

One of the 2 families of white blood cells. The myeloid family produces some types of white blood cells and all red blood cells and platelets. 

myeloma 

Cancer of the white blood cells known as plasma cells. 

myometrium 

Smooth muscle tissue that makes up most of the uterus. 

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N

naevus (plural: naevi) 

A small, dark spot on the skin that arises from skin cells called melanocytes. Also called a mole. 

nasal cavity  

The large, hollow space located behind the nose and in the middle of the face. 

nasendoscope  

A flexible tube with a light and camera on the end. 

nasendoscopy 

An internal examination of the nose and upper airways using a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera called a nasendoscope. Also called a nasoendoscopy. 

nasogastric (NG) tube 

A plastic feeding tube that is passed through a nostril, down the throat and into the stomach. 

nasopharynx 

The upper part of the pharynx that lies behind the nose and above the soft palate. 

National Board 

A board authorised by the government to oversee the registration and professional standards of health care practitioners. 

National Employment Standards (NES) 

The minimum standards of employment that apply to national system employees from 1 January 2010. These are set out in the Fair Work Act 2009. 

natural therapies 

A broad range of therapies that don’t involve the use of drugs. 

naturopathic nutrition 

A form of nutrition based on the principles of naturopathy. Specific foods are chosen to correct problems in the digestive system and to enhance digestion and absorption of nutrients. 

naturopathy  

A holistic system of health care incorporating diet, bodywork and herbal medicine to stimulate the body’s own healing system.  

nausea  

Feeling sick or wanting to be sick. 

neck dissection 

Surgery to remove lymph nodes in one or both sides of the neck. Also called lymphadenectomy. 

needle core biopsy 

A procedure in which tissue is removed from an organ or lymph node using a needle. 

needles/press needles 

Fine, sterile needles inserted into the body during acupuncture. Press needles are like studs, which are covered with tape to help them stay in place. 

neoadjuvant treatment [neoadjuvant] 

A treatment given before another treatment to make that treatment more successful. 

neobladder 

A new bladder formed from a section of the small bowel. 

neoplasia  

Any new or abnormal growth of tissues, in which the growth is uncontrolled and progressive.  

neoplasm 

See tumour. 

nephrectomy 

Surgical removal of a whole kidney (radical nephrectomy) or part of a kidney (partial nephrectomy). In a radical nephrectomy, the adrenal gland, surrounding fatty tissue and nearby lymph nodes are sometimes removed as well. 

nephrologist 

A doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating kidney disease. 

nephrology 

The branch of medicine relating to the function and diseases of the kidneys.  

nephrons 

The tiny parts of the kidney that filter blood and form urine. Nephrons also regulate blood volume, pressure and pH and levels of electrolytes and metabolites. 

nephroureterectomy 

Surgical removal of the kidney, ureter and the top part of the bladder. 

nerve block 

Pain medicine that is injected directly near or around a nerve or near the spine to block pain. 

nerve-sparing surgery 

A type of surgery to save the nerves that affect ejaculation and urination. 

nervous system 

The network of nerves in the body. The 2 main parts are the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.  

neuroendocrine carcinoma 

A cancer that starts in specialised nerve cells that sometimes produce hormones. 

neuroendocrine tumour 

A rare type of tumour that affects the endocrine and nervous systems. Some types of neuroendocrine tumours affect the pancreas. 

neurologist 

A doctor who specialises in treating diseases of the brain and nervous system including seizures.  

neuron  

The 3 types of neurons are sensory neurons (transmitting information from the senses), motor neurons (controlling muscle contractions) and interneurons (controlling reflexes). 

neuro-oncologist 

Neurologist, oncologist or surgeon who specialises in the management of tumours of the brain and nervous system. 

neuropathic pain 

Pain caused by pressure on nerves or the spinal cord, or by damage to nerves Also called nerve pain.  

neurophysiotherapist 

A physiotherapist who specialises in treating physical changes caused by damage to the brain, spinal cord and nervous system.  

neuropsychologist 

A psychologist who specialises in helping people with brain impairments. 

neurosurgeon 

A surgeon who specialises in operations on the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. 

neutropenia 

A low level of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. Neutropenia can make you more prone to infections. 

neutrophils 

A type of white blood cell that defends the body against bacteria and yeast, and fights infection in the bone marrow. 

nil by mouth 

When you are unable to have food or drink for a period of time before or after surgery. 

nipple reconstruction 

Constructing the nipple and areola. 

nipple-sparing mastectomy 

A type of mastectomy where the breast skin, nipple and areola are not removed. 

NK-cell 

The least common type of lymphocyte.  

No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS)  

A community program that provides interest-free loans for people on low incomes. 

nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) 

An uncommon type of Hodgkin lymphoma.  

nodular melanoma 

A type of melanoma of the skin. It makes up about 10–15% of melanomas, and is often aggressive. 

nodule 

A swelling or lump that may be cancerous or non-cancerous. 

non-commutable income stream  

An income stream that cannot be converted into a lump sum payment. This typically refers to some 

superannuation payments. 

non-epithelial ovarian cancer 

A type of ovarian cancer that does not start in the lining of the ovary. Types include germ cell ovarian cancer and sex-cord stromal cancer. 

non-functioning tumour 

A type of neuroendocrine tumour that does not produce hormones that cause symptoms. 

non-Hodgkin lymphoma 

One of the 2 main groups of cancer of the lymphatic system. Also called non-Hodgkin’s disease.  

non-invasive bladder cancer 

Cancer that has not spread beyond the lining of the bladder. Sometimes called superficial bladder cancer. 

non-invasive breast cancer 

Precancerous breast condition that is confined to the ducts or lobules of the breast. Also called carcinoma in situ. 

non-melanoma skin cancer 

Skin cancer that doesn’t develop from the melanocytic cells, e.g. basal cell and squamous cell cancer. Also known as keratinocyte cancer. 

non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer 

Cancer that has not spread into the muscle layer of the bladder. Sometimes known as superficial bladder cancer. 

non-prescription medicine 

Available without a prescription, often from pharmacies and supermarkets. Includes some pain medicines, cold medicines, vitamins and herbal remedies. 

non-seminoma cancer 

A type of testicular cancer. Main subtypes are teratoma, choriocarcinoma yolk sac tumour, and embryonal carcinoma. 

non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) 

One of the 2 main types of lung cancer. Includes squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell undifferentiated carcinoma. 

non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) 

A type of mild pain relief often used to reduce inflammation and swelling. 

NRAS gene mutation 

A non-inherited gene change that can cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. It increases the risk of developing a melanoma. 

nuclear medicine specialist 

Coordinates the delivery of radioactive iodine treatment and nuclear scans. 

nurse care coordinator 

Registered nurse who specialises in caring for people with cancer and their families.  

nutrients 

Nourishing substances that help living things to survive, repair and reproduce. Nutrients from food are processed by the digestive system and carried by the blood to cells throughout the body. 

nutrition 

The process of eating and digesting the food the body needs. 

nutritionist  

Provides information and support about nutrition. Has at least a diploma of nutrition, or equivalent, from a university or naturopathic college. 

nutritious/nourishing 

Food that is a good source of energy (kilojoules/calories) and/or protein as well as vitamins and minerals.  

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O

observation 

See active surveillance. 

obturator  

A special prosthesis or plate that is used to close a gap in the palate, to form a new roof of the mouth. 

occipital lobe 

Part of the cerebrum; responsible for processing visual information.  

occupational physician 

A doctor who specialises in managing illness and injury in the workplace. Can formally assess a person’s capacity to return to work and identify suitable workplace changes.  

ocular melanoma 

Melanoma of the eye. 

odynophagia 

Pain on swallowing. 

oedema 

The presence of an excessive amount of fluid around the cells or tissues of the body. 

oesophageal cancer 

A malignant tumour found in the oesophagus, usually in the gastro-oesophageal junction. 

oesophageal speech 

Forcing air into the top of your oesophagus and then out again to produce a voice. 

oesophagectomy 

The surgical removal of part or all of the oesophagus. 

oesophagitis 

Inflammation or loss of tissue in the walls of the oesophagus.  

oesophagoscopy 

The examination of the oesophagus with an endoscope. 

oesophagus 

The food pipe. The passage that carries food from the throat into the stomach.  

oesopho-gastrectomy 

A surgical procedure to remove parts of the oesophagus and stomach at the same time. 

oestrogen 

The primary female sex hormone. It is produced mainly by the ovaries and helps mature and regulate the female reproductive cycle. After menopause, the hormone is produced in the fat cells. 

oestrogen receptor positive (ER+) 

Breast cancer cells that have a receptor protein to which oestrogen will attach. Breast cancer cells that are ER+ depend on the hormone oestrogen to grow. 

oligodendroglioma 

A brain tumour that starts in glial cells called oligodendroglia. 

omentectomy 

Surgical removal of the omentum. 

omentum 

A protective apron of fatty tissue over the abdominal organs.  

oncocytic thyroid cancer 

A rare type of thyroid cancer. Also known as oxyphilic thyroid cancer or Hürthle cell carcinoma 

oncologist 

A doctor who specialises in the study and treatment of cancer. 

oncology  

The study, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. 

oncology massage training 

Specialist training for massage therapists to develop their awareness and expertise to modify conventional massage for someone with a history or diagnosis of cancer. 

oncoplastic breast conserving surgery 

An operation in which the cancer is removed, and plastic surgery techniques are used to preserve the appearance of the breast as much as possible. 

oncoplastic breast surgeon 

A surgeon who specialises in using plastic surgery techniques to reconstruct breast tissue after surgery. 

oncotype DX Gene Assay Test 

A test that analyses the activity of a group of genes that affect how a cancer is likely to behave and respond to treatment. 

one-stage reconstruction 

A type of implant reconstruction completed in one operation; also called direct-to-implant reconstruction 

oocyte 

An immature egg. 

oophorectomy 

The surgical removal of an ovary. If you have both ovaries removed, it is called a bilateral oophorectomy.  

oophoropexy 

The surgical relocation of one or both ovaries to another area of the body to protect ovarian function. Also called ovarian transposition. 

open surgery 

A surgical method (operation) that uses one large cut (incision) in the body to view and reach the organs. 

opioids 

The strongest pain medicines available. They include morphine, fentanyl, codeine, oxycodone, hydromorphone and methadone. 

oral 

Referring to the mouth region, including the lips, gums, cheeks, floor of the mouth, front of the tongue, and inside area of the jaws. 

oral cavity  

The mouth, – including the gums, cheeks, the roof and floor of the mouth, front two-thirds of the tongue, and the small area behind the wisdom teeth. 

oral chemotherapy  

Chemotherapy given by mouth as tablets or capsules.  

orbital exenteration 

The surgical removal of the eye and other contents of the eye socket. 

orchidectomy  

An operation to remove one or both testicles and spermatic cord through a cut (incision) in the lower abdomen. Also called orchiectomy. 

orchiectomy 

See orchidectomy. 

organ 

A part of the body that has a specific role. Examples include the heart, lungs, liver.  

orgasm 

The peak of sexual response. Also known as climax. 

oropharyngectomy 

Surgical removal of some of the throat behind the mouth.  

oropharynx 

The middle part of the throat behind the mouth. It includes the soft palate, tonsils and tongue base. 

orthopantomogram (OPG) 

Special x-ray used to examine the jaw and teeth of people with mouth cancer. 

osteonecrosis of the jaw 

A condition in which bone tissue of the jaw breaks down, causing pain. 

osteoporosis 

Thinning and weakening of the bones that can lead to bone pain and fractures.  

osteoradionecrosis (ORN) 

A potential side effect of radiation therapy in which bone tissue breaks down. 

ostomy 

See stoma. 

out-of-pocket costs 

The difference between what you are charged, and the amount Medicare or your health fund will pay. 

outpatient 

A person who visits a hospital for medical treatment and care without being admitted. 

ovarian ablation 

Stopping the ovaries from producing oestrogen by surgically removing the ovaries (oophorectomy) or giving a dose of radiation therapy to the ovaries. 

ovarian cancer 

Cancer that starts in the ovaries. There are several different types of ovarian cancer, including epithelial and non-epithelial cancers. 

ovarian suppression 

Methods to stop the functions of the ovaries. 

ovarian tissue freezing 

See cryopreservation. 

ovarian transposition or relocation 

The surgical relocation of one or both ovaries from the pelvis into the abdomen. This procedure is used to protect the ovaries from radiation therapy. Also called oophoropexy. 

ovary  

A female reproductive organ that contains eggs (ova). It produces the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. 

ovulation  

The release of an egg (ovum) during the menstrual cycle. 

ovum (plural: ova) 

The female sex cell that is produced by the ovary and released during ovulation. Also called egg. 

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P

Paget’s disease of the nipple  

Cancer that develops in the breast ducts and spreads to the skin of the nipple and the areola. 

pain assessment 

A way for a doctor to determine a person’s level of pain. It helps guide decisions about how to treat the pain. 

pain diary 

A record of when pain is greatest and the medicine used to relieve the pain. 

pain management plan  

A personalised plan to manage pain, developed by a person’s GP and the pain management team. 

pain medicine specialist 

A medical specialist who treats difficult pain problems. 

pain scale 

A scale that helps a person show how mild or severe their pain is based on a range of numbers, descriptions or facial expressions. 

palliative care 

The holistic care of people who have a life-limiting illness, their families and carers. It aims to maintain quality of life by addressing physical, emotional, cultural, spiritual and social needs. Also known as supportive care. It is not just for people who are about to die, although it does include end-of-life care. 

palliative care nurse 

A nurse who has specialised in the field of palliative care. Provides support to the patient, family and carers, and may coordinate the palliative care team. 

palliative care nurse practitioner 

A palliative care nurse with additional qualifications who can manage complex care, including referral to other health professionals, prescribing some medicines and ordering tests. 

palliative care plan 

An outline of a person’s care needs and goals, and how they will be met. 

palliative care specialist (physician) 

A doctor who has specialised in the field of palliative medicine. Prescribes medical treatment for pain and other symptoms, and supports and advises other members of the palliative care team, and the patient, family and carers. 

palliative care unit 

A place that provides comprehensive care for people with a life-limiting illness. This may include inpatient medical care, respite care and end-of-life care for people who are unable to be cared for at home, or who don’t wish to die at home. It may also offer day care facilities and home visits. Sometimes called a hospice.  

palliative treatment 

Medical treatment for people with advanced cancer to help them manage pain and other physical and emotional symptoms. Treatment may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy or other therapies. It is an important part of palliative care. 

pancreas 

An organ in the digestive system and endocrine system. The pancreas produces insulin and some of the enzymes needed to digest food.  

pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) 

This replaces the enzymes that your pancreas would normally make. These help to digest your food by breaking down carbohydrates, fats and proteins in your food. The enzymes come in capsules that you swallow. 

pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) 

The inability to properly digest food due to a lack of digestive enzymes made by the body. 

pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (pancreaticNET) 

A neuroendocrine tumour affecting the pancreas. 

pancreaticoduodenectomy 

See Whipple procedure. 

pancreatitis 

Inflammation of the pancreas. 

panic attack 

An episode of severe anxiety featuring symptoms such as shortness of breath, racing heartbeat, dizziness, sweating, shaking, chest pain, a choking feeling and overwhelming fear. 

papillary thyroid cancer 

The most common type of thyroid cancer, developing from the follicular cells. 

papillary urothelial carcinoma 

A tumour that projects into the hollow of the bladder. 

Pap test (smear) 

A test that can detect changes in cells of the vagina and cervix. Cells are scraped off and examined under a microscope. Also called a Pap smear. Replaced by the cervical screening test. 

paracentesis 

The drainage of excess fluid from the abdomen. Also called an ascitic tap. 

parafollicular cells (C-cells) 

One of the 2 main types of cells that make up the thyroid gland. They produce calcitonin. 

paranasal sinuses 

Small, air-filled spaces in the side walls of the nose. 

paraprotein 

A substance produced when plasma cells multiply abnormally. Also called M-protein or monoclonal protein. 

parathyroidectomy 

The removal of the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium in the body. 

parathyroid glands 

Four glands located behind the thyroid. They produce a hormone that helps control the amount of calcium in the blood. 

parenteral nutrition 

The delivery of calories and nutrients into a vein. 

parietal lobe 

Part of the cerebrum; responsible for processing information from the senses. 

parietal peritoneum 

The outer layer of the pleura that lines the chest wall and diaphragm. 

parietal peritoneum 

The outer layer of the peritoneum that lines the walls of the abdomen and pelvis.  

parietal pleura  

The outer layer of the pleura that lines the chest wall and diaphragm. 

parotidectomy  

The surgical removal of a parotid gland. 

parotid glands 

One of the sets of major salivary glands. They are found just in front of the ears. 

partial cystectomy 

Surgical removal of part of the bladder (partial cystectomy).  

partial gastrectomy 

See subtotal gastrectomy. 

partial hepatectomy 

Surgery to remove part of the liver; may include removal of the gallbladder. 

partial mastectomy  

An operation to remove a breast cancer and a small amount of the surrounding healthy breast tissue. This is a type of breast-conserving surgery, like lumpectomy, but more of the breast is removed. 

partial nephrectomy 

The surgical removal of part of a kidney. 

partial remission 

When there has been a significant reduction in symptoms, but some cancer is still present. 

partial vulvectomy 

The surgical removal of part of the vulva.  

participant (in a clinical trial) 

Someone who has the treatment or other intervention being tested in a clinical trial. In cancer clinical trials, this will usually be the person with cancer but sometimes can be former patients, carers, family members, people at risk of cancer or people who have been affected by cancer. 

participant information 

An information sheet that explains everything a participant needs to know about the trial and treatment. Sometimes called a fact sheet. 

passive bodywork techniques 

Body-based therapies, such as massage and reflexology, where the therapist applies manual pressure to the client’s body or works on the energy fields of the client. 

pathologist 

A specialist doctor who interprets the results of tests [such as blood tests and biopsies]. 

pathology report 

A document that provides information about the cancerous tissue, including its size and location, hormonal status, how far it has spread, how fast it is growing, and surgical margins. 

Patient care navigator 

A person who works with you, your family, and community to help you navigate the health system and avoid any barriers to receiving timely care 

patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) system 

An intravenous system that allows a person to administer a measured dose of pain relief by pressing a button.  

patient responsibilities 

Expectations of patients to treat their health care team with respect, honesty and consideration. 

patient rights 

Rules and guarantees for people receiving medical care. Some rights are legally enforceable; other rights are what you can reasonably expect from your care and are not enforceable. 

PBS Safety Net 

This government scheme reduces the cost of prescription medicines for individuals and families once the PBS Safety Net threshold has been reached. 

PCI system 

Peritoneal cancer index. Assesses the extent of cancer in the peritoneal cavity. 

pectoralis muscle 

The muscle at the front of the chest. 

pedicle flap 

A narrow strip of tissue including blood vessels to maintain blood supply to transplanted tissue.  

peer review 

A process in which independent experts check research to make sure it is accurate and reliable. 

pelvic exenteration 

The surgical removal of all organs from the pelvis, including the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, bladder and part of the bowel. 

pelvic floor exercises 

Exercises to strengthen the muscles controlling the bladder and rectum. 

pelvic floor muscles 

The muscles that support the organs in the pelvis and help to control urination and bowel movements. 

pelvic sidewall 

A structure of bone and ligament on the side of the pelvis. 

pelvis 

The lower part of the trunk of the body: roughly, the area that extends from hip to hip and waist to groin. 

pemetrexed (Alimta®) 

A chemotherapy drug used to treat malignant mesothelioma. 

penectomy 

The surgical removal of part or all of the penis. 

penile prosthesis 

An implant that is surgically placed in the penis. It allows you to mechanically create an erection. 

percutaneous 

Through the skin. 

percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy (PEG) tube 

A feeding tube inserted directly into the stomach through the abdomen. 

percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (PEJ) tube 

A feeding tube inserted through the abdomen directly into the small bowel (jejunum), bypassing the stomach. 

percutaneous stent placement 

Placing a tube (stent) through the skin to unblock the bile duct and relieve jaundice. 

pericardium 

A thin, double-layered sac that surrounds the heart. 

perineum 

The area of skin between the vulva (or, for males, the scrotum) and the anus.  

periods 

See menstruation.  

peripheral blood stem cell transplant 

The replacement of stem cells in the bone marrow after high-dose chemotherapy with healthy stem cells that have been collected from the blood of the patient or a donor. 

peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) 

A type of central venous access device that is inserted into a vein in the arm. 

peripheral nervous system 

The system of nerves extending outside the central nervous system to the limbs and organs. 

peripheral neuropathy 

Weakness, numbness, tingling or pain, usually in the hands and feet, caused by damage to the nerves that are located away from the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves). This damage can be a side effect of some systemic treatments, including chemotherapy. 

peripheral T-cell lymphoma 

A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that often starts as painless lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin. 

peristalsis  

Muscle contractions that move food into the stomach.  

peritoneal cavity 

The space between the layers of the peritoneum; normally contains a small amount of fluid. 

peritoneal effusion 

See ascites. 

peritoneal mesothelioma 

Cancer that affects the layers of tissue that line the walls and organs of the abdomen and pelvis (the peritoneum). 

peritoneal tap 

A procedure that uses a needle to drain fluid from abdomen. Also known as paracentesis. 

peritonectomy 

An operation to remove part of the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum).  

peritonectomy 

An operation to remove the parts of the peritoneum where the mesothelioma is growing. The aim is to completely remove the cancer. 

peritoneum 

The lining of the abdomen. 

perivesical tissue 

The outer layer of the bladder. Mostly made up of fatty tissue.  

permanent employee  

An individual who works for an employer on a permanent full-time or part-time basis. Permanent employees receive the minimum entitlements set out in the National Employment Standards.  

pernicious anaemia 

A type of anaemia. It is caused by vitamin B12 not being absorbed, which affects the development of red blood cell. 

personal/carer’s leave 

Leave taken when an employee can’t attend work because they are sick, injured or need to provide care or support to a member of your immediate family or household due to an illness, injury or an unexpected emergency. 

person-centred care 

Care that is respectful of, and responsive to, the preferences, needs and values of the individual patient. 

Person Responsible 

A person who, under law, can make decisions on behalf of a patient who cannot make their own decisions and has not appointed someone to act on their behalf. 

pessary 

A solid medicinal substance that is inserted into the vagina where it will dissolve. 

petechiae 

Small red or purple spots on the skin or mouth. A symptom of leukaemia. 

PET scan 

Positron emission tomography scan. A scan in which a person is injected with a small amount of radioactive solution to find cancerous areas. Cancerous areas show up brighter in the scan because they take up more of the solution. 

PET-CT scan 

Positron emission tomography scan combined with CT scan. In a PET scan, a person is injected with a small amount of radioactive solution. This makes cancerous areas show up brighter on the scan. 

Peyronie’s disease 

Pain in the penis as it becomes erect, or a curve in the erect penis. This sometimes happens after radiation therapy to the penis. 

phantom pain 

Pain felt in a limb or body part even though it has been surgically removed. 

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) 

A government-funded scheme that subsidises some prescription medicines. 

pharmacogenetics 

A branch of pharmacology that examines both drugs and genes to see why certain people react positively or negatively to different treatments. Also called pharmacogenomics. 

pharmacology 

The study of drugs and how they can be used to treat diseases. 

pharyngectomy 

The surgical removal of part or all of the throat. 

pharynx 

The throat. This is a hollow tube that starts behind the nose and connects the mouth and nose with the oesophagus. 

phase 

A stage of a clinical trial. There are usually 4 phases of testing. 

phenacetin 

An ingredient in some old pain-relieving drugs, such as Bex and Vicks powders. It has not been used since the 1970s because it has been linked to kidney damage and kidney cancer. 

Philadelphia chromosome 

An abnormal chromosome associated with chronic myeloid leukaemia and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. It carries instructions for the body to produce tyrosine kinase, a protein that tells leukaemia cells to grow and multiply. 

phlegm 

Thick mucus in the mouth. 

photodynamic therapy 

A type of cancer treatment using a cream or solution applied to the skin that is activated by intense light. 

physiotherapist  

A university-qualified health professional who uses physical methods, such as massage and exercise, to help restore movement and mobility, and prevent further injury. 

phytochemicals 

Chemical compounds that occur naturally in fruit, vegetables, legumes (beans and peas) and grains. Also called phytonutrients. 

Pilates 

A system of exercises that increase awareness of muscles in the body to improve breathing, core strength and posture.  

pilocytic astrocytoma 

A type of brain tumour. 

pilot project 

A small project that is carried out to see whether a similar large-scale study is feasible. 

pineal gland  

A gland in the brain which helps to control your body clock. It produces hormones including melatonin which helps you sleep. Tumours of the pineal gland are rare and are usually classified as neuroendocrine tumours. 

pituitary gland 

A gland in the brain that produces hormones. These hormones control many of the body’s functions, including growth, metabolism and production of sex hormones. 

pituitary tumour 

A brain tumour that starts in the pituitary gland; usually benign. 

placebo 

A dummy pill, injection or other treatment that looks like the new treatment being tested but doesn’t contain the active ingredient. 

placebo effect 

The placebo effect occurs when someone who is given a placebo, such as a harmless sugar pill, feels an improvement, like a reduction in symptoms, after taking the pill. 

plasma  

The clear fluid part of the blood that carries red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. 

plasma cells 

A type of white blood cell that stays mostly in the bone marrow. Plasma cells make antibodies.  

plasma exchange 

When the plasma portion of the blood is removed and replaced with donate plasma or a plasma substitute. Plasma exchange may be used if high levels of paraprotein are causing hyperviscosity. 

plastic surgeon 

A medical practitioner who has had advanced surgical training in the restoration of skin and tissue to near-normal appearance and function. Also known as reconstructive surgeon. 

plateau 

A prolonged period of stable disease, where the disease is present but well controlled. 

platelets  

One of the 3 main types of cells found in the blood. Platelets help the blood to clot and stop bleeding. Also called thrombocytes. 

pleura 

The mesothelium (thin sheet of tissue) that lines the chest wall and covers the lungs. It has 2 layers: parietal and visceral. 

pleural cavity 

The space between the 2 layers of the pleura, which normally contains a thin film of fluid. 

pleural effusion 

A collection of excess fluid between the 2 layers of tissue that cover the lungs.  

pleural fluid  

The fluid in the pleural cavity that allows builds up between the 2 layers of the pleura to slide over each other as you breathe. Mesothelioma can cause excess fluid to build up, see pleural effusion. 

pleural mesothelioma 

Cancer that affects the layers of tissue that cover the lungs (the pleura). 

pleural plaque 

An localised area of fibrous thickening on the pleura. It sometimes containing calcium material on the pleura, which can be seen on x-rays of people exposed to asbestos. Strongly linked to inhaling asbestos. 

pleural tap 

A procedure in which a hollow needle is inserted between the ribs to drain excess fluid. Also called pleurocentesis or thoracentesis. 

pleural thickening 

Extensive scarring that thickens the pleura. As the scar tissue grows, it can encase the lung and close off the pleural cavity. Also known as diffuse pleural thickening (DPT). 

pleurectomy 

Surgery procedure to remove part of the pleura. When combined with decortication it is known as pleurectomy decortication (PD). 

pleuritic pain 

Pain caused by inflammation of the pleura. It can be sudden and sharp, stabbing, burning or dull, and occur during breathing, especially when inhaling and exhaling. 

pleurodesis 

An injection of sterile talcum powder into the pleural cavity. This causes inflammation that closes the space and prevents fluid building up again. 

pneumonectomy 

Surgery to remove a whole lung. 

pneumonia 

A bacterial infection in the lungs which causes some of the air sacs fill up with pus. 

pocketed bra 

A bra designed for women who have had a breast removed. Each cup has a pocket to hold a breast prosthesis. Also called mastectomy bra. 

podiatrist 

A trained health professional who can help you look after your feet.  

polarity therapy 

A gentle bodywork technique using touch to clear blockages in energy flow around the body. 

polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 

A hormonal disorder. In women with PCOS, their ovaries produce too many male hormones, which affects the development and release of eggs during ovulation. 

polycythaemia 

A condition in which red blood cell levels are higher than normal. 

polyp 

A projecting growth from a surface in the body, such as the large bowel. Most polyps are benign, but they can become malignant. 

polypectomy 

The surgical removal of a polyp. 

polyposis 

The condition of having several polyps in the large bowel. 

port 

A thin channel that is placed through cuts in the skin to assist in laparoscopic surgery. 

port-a-cath (port) 

A type of central venous access device surgically inserted under the skin of the chest or arm. A tube called a catheter connects the port to a vein so fluids can be passed into the body.  

portal vein 

A blood vessel carrying blood from the stomach and small bowel to the liver. 

portal vein embolisation (PVE) 

A procedure to block the vein supplying blood to one part of the liver, so that the other part of the liver will grow. 

positron emission tomography scan 

See PET scan. 

power of attorney 

A document that gives a person the ability to act on your behalf on financial, legal and medical matters. See enduring power of attorney. 

practice nurse 

A nurse who works in general practice. 

precancerous 

A term used to describe a condition that may or is likely to become cancer. 

precursor T-lymphoblastic lymphoma 

A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that starts in immature (precursor) T-cells in lymph nodes in the spleen. 

pre-existing condition  

An illness or injury that existed before applying for an insurance policy. 

prehabilitation 

A tailored program of activities to help a person prepare for surgery. May include exercise, nutrition and emotional support. 

pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) 

Testing embryos for specific genetic or sex-linked disorders before implantation into the woman’s uterus. 

premature ejaculation 

The inability to delay ejaculation.  

premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) 

The premature loss of ovarian function before the age of 40. This occurs when the ovaries no longer produce adequate amounts of sex hormones and can’t develop a mature egg for ovulation. Also called early or premature menopause. 

preparatory grief 

Grief that occurs when someone knows that they are dying.  

prescription medicine  

Medicine that can only be given (dispensed) by a pharmacist after receiving authority from a doctor. 

preservation age  

The age at which you can access the preserved amount of your superannuation once you are retired.  

preserved amount  

The contributions you and your employer make to superannuation plus any interest earned on these amounts. You can usually access the preserved amount only once you are retired or have reached preservation age, but you may be able to access it earlier in special circumstances. 

pressure points 

Areas on the body that correspond to different organs and may offer relief from a variety of symptoms. 

prevention trial 

Trial that tests a new approach that researchers and doctors believe may lower the risk of getting cancer. 

preventive mastectomy 

Surgery to remove breast tissue in a woman with a high risk of developing cancer. 

primary cancer 

The original cancer. Cells from the primary cancer may break away and be carried to other parts of the body, where secondary cancers may form. 

primary health care  

A person’s main health care, which is provided by a general practitioner (GP) or a community nurse. It can include initial tests and diagnoses of disease, health promotion, disease prevention, and management of chronic illnesses.  

primary health care provider 

A health professional, such as a general practitioner or community nurse, who provides the first point of contact for a person with the health care system and helps them with a range of health-related matters. 

primary liver cancer 

Cancer that started in the liver. 

primary site 

The part of the body where the cancer first developed. 

private health insurance  

An insurance policy that covers some medical expenses. Patients with private hospital cover can choose their own doctor and whether they want to be treated in a private or public hospital. People can also take out general treatment cover for extras such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatments. 

proctitis  

Inflammation of the rectum. 

proctocolectomy 

An operation to remove the entire colon and rectum. 

proctoscopy 

An examination of the rectum and anus using an instrument called a proctoscope.  

progesterone 

A female sex hormone made mostly by the ovaries that prepares the uterus lining (endometrium) for pregnancy. It can also be produced artificially to help shrink some cancers and control cancer symptoms. Progesterone is also present in men. 

progesterone receptor positive (PR+) 

Breast cancer cells that have a receptor protein to which progesterone will attach. Breast cancer cells that are PR+ depend on the hormone progesterone to grow. 

prognosis 

The expected outcome of a [particular] person’s disease. 

prosthesis  

An artificial replacement for a lost or damaged body part. 

prospective study 

Research that looks at what happens to different groups of people from the start of the study up to a point in the future. 

prostate  

A gland in the male reproductive system. It produces fluid that makes up part of semen.  

prostatectomy 

An operation to remove all or part of the prostate. A radical prostatectomy removes all the prostate and some of the tissue around it. 

prostate specific antigen (PSA) 

A protein produced by prostate cell and found in the blood. High levels may indicate prostate cancer.  

prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) 

A protein found on prostate cells that can be used to find cancer cells. 

prosthesis 

An artificial replacement for a lost or damaged body part. 

proteasome inhibitors 

Drugs that block the breakdown of protein within cancer cells, causing them to stop growing and die. 

protein 

An essential part of food which the body needs to repair itself and build muscle.  

protein 

Cells make proteins to carry out specific functions in the body. For example, proteins help form skin and hair (keratin), give structure to your skin and bones (collagen), and fight infections (antibodies). 

protocol  
In clinical trials: A plan that describes all the details about a study, including its aims and methods and the reasons for conducting it.  
In chemotherapy: A recommendation that sets out which chemotherapy drugs to use and their dosage and timing. Also called a regimen. 

proton therapy 

A specialised form of external beam radiation therapy that uses radiation from protons rather than x-rays. 

psychological techniques 

Mind–body techniques. 

psycho-oncologist 

A psychologist or psychiatrist who has special training and experience in the treatment of psychosocial aspects of cancer. 

psycho-oncology 

A field of cancer care concerned with the emotional responses of people with cancer and their families. 

psychosocial research 

Research looking at the emotional, psychological and social effects of disease and how people can be helped through supportive care measures. 

psychotherapy 

A range of techniques that help people improve their mental health and wellbeing by giving them the opportunity to express their thoughts and consider how their behaviour and feelings impact on their day-to-day life. 

puberty 

The process of reaching sexual maturity and becoming capable of reproduction. 

public guardian 

A legal official who can be appointed to make important health and lifestyle decisions on behalf of another person. 

pulmonary 

Relating to the lungs. 

pulmonary decortication 

Surgical procedure to remove some of the linings of the chest wall and lung. 

pulse analysis 

A form of diagnosis used in traditional Chinese medicine where the practitioner feels a person’s pulse – usually on the wrists – to determine the imbalances in their body. 

pulse oximeter 

A small machine, usually attached to a finger or toe, that measures how much oxygen is in the blood. 

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Q

qi 

Vital energy or force. Pronounced ‘chee’. 

qi gong 

A form of movement therapy from Chinese medicine. Pronounced ‘chee goong.’ 

quadriceps 

The muscles on the front of the leg between the knee and the hip. 

qualitative study 

Research that focuses on individual responses, usually collected through interviews or written surveys, rather than numerical data to obtain the results. 

quality of life  

Your comfort and satisfaction, based on how well your physical, emotional, spiritual, sexual, social and financial needs are met within the limitations of your health and personal circumstances.  

quantitative study 

A study that focuses on collecting numerical data and analysing the results using statistics. 

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R

radiation 

Energy in the form of waves or particles, including gamma rays, x-rays and ultraviolet (UV) rays. This energy is harmful to cells and is used in radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells. 

radiation oncologist 

A doctor who specialises in treating cancer with radiation therapy.  

radiation shielding 

Protecting a part of the body from external beam radiation therapy using a shield. 

radiation therapist 

A health professional who administers radiation therapy. 

radiation therapy 

The use of targeted radiation to kill or damage cancer cells so they cannot grow, multiply or spread. The radiation is usually in the form of x-ray beams. Also called radiotherapy.  

radical cystectomy 

Surgical removal of all of the bladder and surrounding lymph nodes (radical cystectomy). In women, the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and a small section of vagina may also be removed. In men, the prostate, urethra and seminal vesicles are sometimes removed. 

radical hysterectomy  

An operation that removes the uterus, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the soft tissue around the cervix and top of the vagina.  

radical local excision 

An operation that removes the cancer and a larger area of normal tissue all around the cancer.  

radical nephrectomy 

The surgical removal of the whole of the diseased kidney. If diseased, the adrenal gland, surrounding fatty tissue and nearby lymph nodes are sometimes removed as well. 

radical prostatectomy 

An operation to remove the entire prostate gland and some of the tissue around it. 

radical radiation therapy 

High-dose radiation therapy aimed at treating all areas destroying cancer cells that are likely to remain after surgery. 

radical surgery 

A type of extensive surgery that aims to remove the diseased organ or tumour as well as the blood supply, lymph nodes and, sometimes, attached structures. 

radical vulvectomy 

An operation that removes the entire vulva, including the clitoris, and usually the surrounding lymph nodes.  

radioactive iodine 

A form of iodine often used for imaging tests or as a treatment for cancer. Also known as RAI or I-131. 

radioactive iodine ablation 

Receiving radioactive iodine after a thyroid operation in order to destroy any normal or cancerous tissue left behind by surgery. Also called thyroid ablation. 

radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment 

A type of internal isotape radiation therapy used to treat thyroid cancer. 

radiofrequency ablation (RFA) 

A treatment that uses radio waves to heat and destroy cancer cells. 

radioisotope 

Radioactive liquid. 

radioisotope bone scan 

A scan using small amounts of radioisotope to find areas of bone where there is cancer. 

radionuclide therapy 

The use of radioactive substances that can be taken by mouth as a capsule or liquid, or given by injection (intravenously). Also called radioisotope therapy. 

radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG) tube 

A feeding tube inserted directly into the stomach through the abdomen using x-rays or other scans. 

radiologist 

A specialist doctor who analyses x-rays and scans. An interventional radiologist may also perform a biopsy under ultrasound or CT, and deliver some treatments. 

radionuclide  

A radioactive substance that is injected into the body to locate or treat tumours. 

radiosensitisation 

A treatment that involves giving drugs with radiation therapy to make cancer cells more sensitive to the radiation. 

radiotherapy 

See radiation therapy.  

randomisation 

A method used to prevent bias in research. A computer is put patients into groups by chance, rather than the researchers or doctors choosing the groups.  

randomised controlled trial (RCT) 

A trial in which participants are randomly assigned to receive the experimental treatment or the standard treatment (the control). 

rating of perceived exertion 

A scientific way of telling how hard exercise is based on how it feels. 

reasonable accommodation  

See reasonable adjustment. 

reasonable adjustments 

Any accommodations, modifications or provisions made in the workplace to allow a person with a disability, such as cancer, to perform the inherent requirements of the job. 

rebate 

A partial refund following a purchase or payment. 

reconstructive surgeon 

A doctor who has advanced surgical training in the restoration of skin and tissue to near-normal appearance and function. Also known as plastic surgeon. 

reconstructive (plastic) surgeon 

A surgeon who performs breast reconstruction after mastectomy. 

reconstructive surgery 

Surgery to rebuild an area of the body that has been damaged. 

recovery room 

A hospital room for the care of patients immediately after surgery. 

rectal bleeding 

Bleeding from the anus. 

rectal cancer 

Cancer that develops in the rectum, the last part of the large bowel. 

rectum 

The last 15–20 cm of the large bowel, above the anus, which stores faeces until a bowel movement occurs. 

rectus abdominis muscle  

One of the 2 large, flat stomach muscles, commonly known as the abs or sixpack. It can be used to reconstruct a breast. 

recurrence 

The return of a disease after a period of improvement (remission). Also called a relapse. 

recurrent cancer  

Cancer that has returned after treatment of the primary cancer. A recurrence may be local (in the same place as the primary cancer) or distant (in another part of the body). 

red blood cells 

One of the 3 main types of cells found in the blood. They carry oxygen around the body. Also called erythrocytes. 

reduced intensity stem cell transplant 

An allogeneic transplant that uses lower doses of chemotherapy and radiation therapy than normal, so it is easier for the body to tolerate. 

Reed-Sternberg cell 

Large, abnormal cells found in classical Hodgkin lymphoma. 

refractory disease 

A disease that has not fully responded to initial treatment. Also known as residual disease. relapse 

The return of a disease after a period of improvement (remission). Also known as recurrence. 

referred pain 

Pain that is felt away from the area that is actually causing the pain. 

refinance 

When you replace or extend an existing loan with funds from either the same or a different bank or financial institution. 

reflexology 

A type of massage of areas on the hands and feet known as “reflex points”. These points are believed to correspond with the body’s internal organs and systems. 

reflux 

When stomach acid flows up into the oesophagus. 

refractory disease 

A disease that has not fully responded to initial treatment. Sometimes known as residual disease. 

regional melanoma 

Melanoma that has spread to nearby lymph nodes. 

registered health professional 

A health care provider, such as a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, who needs to be registered and approved by a government registration board before working in that field. 

registrar 

A hospital doctor who is training to be a specialist. 

registration board 

A board authorised by the government to oversee the registration and professional standards of health care providers. 

regression 

An area within a melanoma where melanoma cells have been destroyed and replaced by scar tissue. 

rehabilitation 

A program to help a person recover and regain function, or adapt to changes, after illness or injury. 

rehabilitation professional 

A professional who works with an employee to help them return to work. 

rehabilitation scheme 

A process that aims to return an employee to their previous level of work. 

reiki 

A system of light or no-touch movements. It claims to turn blocked negative energy into positive energy. 

relapse  

The return of a disease after a period of improvement (remission). Also known as recurrence.  

relaxation (relaxation techniques) 

Different technique used to reduce muscle tension and stress. Examples include relaxation, meditation, guided imagery or visualisation. 

remission  

When the signs and symptoms of the cancer reduce or disappear. A partial remission is when there has been a significant reduction in symptoms but some cancer is still present. A complete remission is when there is no evidence of active cancer. This may not mean that the cancer is cured. 

renal artery 

A blood vessel that carries blood to the kidney. 

renal cell carcinoma (RCC) 

The most common type of kidney cancer. Also called renal cell adenocarcinoma. It begins in cells lining small tubes in the nephrons. Types of RCC include clear cell carcinoma, papillary, chromophobe or sarcomatoid kidney cancers. 

renal pelvis 

A funnel-shaped structure where the kidney and ureter meet. 

renal sarcoma 

A rare cancer that affects the connective tissues of the kidney. 

renal vein 

A blood vessel that carries blood away from the kidney. 

research governance officer 

The person responsible for the management and approval of applications for research at their particular location. 

research grant 

Money given by an institution to fund research, usually allocated through a competitive process. 

resectable 

Able to be surgically removed from the body. 

resection 

Surgical removal of part or all of a diseased organ or tumour. 

resident medical officer 

A hospital doctor who has not undertaken specialist training. 

residual cancer 

Cancer that remains after treatment. 

resilience 

The ability to bounce back from unexpected changes and challenges. 

resistance training (strength training) 

A type of exercise using free weights, special elastic resistance bands, medicine balls, weight machines, or your own body weight to help strengthen muscles. 

respiratory 

Relating to the lungs. 

respiratory system 

The system of the body responsible for breathing. 

respite care 

Alternative care arrangements that allow the carer and person with cancer a short break from their usual care arrangements. The care can be given in a range of settings.  

response 

A decrease in the size of tumours as a result of treatment. 

resuscitation 

The process of reviving someone who appears to be dead, for example, by heart massage or artificial respiration. 

retrograde ejaculation 

When the semen travels backwards into the bladder, instead of forwards out of the penis.  

retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) 

Surgery to remove the lymph nodes from the abdomen. Also called lymphadenectomy. 

retroperitoneal lymph nodes 

Lymph nodes in the area outside or behind the peritoneum (the tissue that lines the wall of the abdomen).  

retrospective study 

Research that looks at what has happened in the past to gain an understanding about why something is occurring in the present. Also called case control studies. 

return to work plan 

A document that sets out what needs to happen to help a person return to work after an injury or illness. 

rhinectomy 

The surgical removal of part or all of the nose. 

rhTSH 

Recombinant human thyroid-stimulating hormone. A type of synthetic thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). It is used to raise thyroid hormone levels before radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment, or before some follow-up tests after thyroid cancer treatment. Also known by the brand name Thyrogen. 

Richter’s transformation 

When chronic lymphocytic leukaemia cells transform into a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma known as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.  

right hemicolectomy 

A type of colectomy where tissue is removed from the right side 

of the colon. 

risk factor 

A substance or condition that increases an individual’s chances of developing a particular type of cancer. 

risk of progression 

How likely localised (early-stage) prostate cancer is to grow and spread. The risk is classified as low, intermediate or high. 

robotic-assisted hysterectomy 

A form of laparoscopic surgery where the instruments are controlled by robotic arms guided by the surgeon. 

rupture 

When an implant breaks. This causes the contents of the implant to leak out. 

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S

saline 

A water and salt solution, which equals the body’s own fluids. 

saline-gel implant 

An implant with 2 sections: one that can be filled with saline to expand the skin covering the implant, and one that is filled with gel. This type of expander implant can remain in place permanently. 

Saliva (spit) 

The watery substance released into the mouth from the salivary ducts. 

salivary ducts  

Small openings in the oral cavity that release saliva into the mouth. The ducts are connected to the salivary glands. 

salivary glands 

Glands where saliva is made. They include the parotid glands (front of the ears), the submandibular glands (under the lower jaw) and the sublingual glands (under the tongue). 

salpingectomy  

Surgery to remove the fallopian tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus. 

salvage treatment 

A treatment given after a tumour cancer has not responded to other treatments, or any treatment given after cancer recurrence. 

sarcoma 

A cancer that starts in the bone or in the soft tissue under the skin. 

sarcomatoid 

A type of malignant pleural mesothelioma. The cells have a growth pattern resembling a malignant tumour arising from fibrous tissue. 

Schedule fee 

Medicare’s recommended fee for a medical service. 

schwannoma 

A benign tumour that starts in the Schwann cells, which surround nerves in the brain and spinal cord. A vestibular schwannoma is a type of schwannoma. 

scientific evidence 

Rigorous testing to prove something works or does not work. Clinical trials are a form of scientific evidence. 

scintigraphy 

A scanning method that uses a radioactive substance to locate tumours in the body. Types of scans include PET (positron emission tomography) scans, SRS (somatostatin receptor scinitigraphy) and MIBG (metaiodobenzylguanidine) scans. 

screening 

An organised program to identify disease in people before any symptoms appear. 

screening test 

Help to detect cancer in people who don’t have symptoms. 

screening trial 

A trial that tests the best way to find cancer, especially in its earliest stages. 

scrotum 

The external pouch of skin behind the penis that contains the testicles. 

secondary cancer 

See metastasis. 

secondary cancer in the liver 

Cancer that started in another part of the body, but has spread (metastasised) to the liver. 

second opinion 

Talking to another specialist to consider other treatment options or to confirm a recommended course of treatment. 

second line chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy that is given if standard chemotherapy doesn’t work or the disease comes back. 

second-line treatment 

Treatment that is given if the first-line treatment doesn’t work or the disease comes back. 

secretion 

The release of a substance. 

secured debt 

A debt that is linked to (secured against) a particular asset. 

segmentectomy 

Surgery to remove a small section of an organ. 

seizure 

A disruption of the normal electrical impulses in the brain, causing a person to have fits (convulsions) or other symptoms. 

selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) 

A type of internal radiation therapy used to treat liver cancers. Also called radioembolisation. 

self-employment 

Working for yourself rather than for another person or company. 

semen 

The fluid ejaculated from the penis during sexual climax. It contains sperm from the testicles and fluids from the prostate and seminal vesicles. 

seminal vesicles 

Two small glands that lie near the prostate and produce fluid that forms part of semen. 

seminoma cancer 

A type of testicular cancer.  

sensory neuron 

A type of neuron that responds to light, sound and touch. 

sentinel lymph node biopsy 

A surgical procedure used to determine whether cancer has spread from the primary site to the lymphatic system. 

sentinel node 

The first lymph node to receive lymph fluid directly from a tumour.  

sentinel node biopsy 

Removal of the sentinel node. 

sentinel node mapping 

A way to identify the sentinel lymph node by injection of a radioactive substance, blue dye or both near the tumour. 

seroma 

A collection of fluid under a wound that may develop after surgery. This is not harmful but may need to be drained. Also called a lymphocele. 

serous carcinoma 

A type of endometrial cancer. 

serous membrane 

A smooth membrane consisting of a thin layer of cells that secrete fluid, and an underlying thin epithelial layer. 

serum free light chain assay 

A test that can detect free light chains in the blood, which can be a sign of myeloma. 
 

sestamibi (MIBI) scan 

A type of cardiac imaging that assesses blood flow to the heart muscle, both at rest and during stress. 

sex 

1. Penetrative intercourse and other activities such as oral sex and self/stimulation/masturbation. 

2. The anatomical gender that you identify with (male, female, intersex). 

sexual arousal 

The ability for the body to respond and get turned on. 

sexual desire 

Wanting to have sex. Also called libido.  

sexuality 

How people express themselves as sexual beings. 

sexual orientation 

Describes the people that you are sexually attracted to. For example, heterosexual is an attraction to the opposite sex, homosexual is an attraction to the same sex, and an attraction to both sexes is bisexual. 

sexual response cycle 

The phases of physical response during sexual arousal and intercourse. This may include arousal (excitement), desire, plateau, orgasm and resolution. 

sex-cord stromal cells 

Ovary cells that release the female hormones. 

shunt 

A long, thin tube used to drain fluid build-up in the brain. May be temporary or permanent. 

side effect 

Unintended effect of a drug or treatment. Most side effects can be managed. 

sigmoid colectomy 

A type of colectomy where tissue is removed from the sigmoid colon. 

sigmoid colon 

The part of the colon below the descending colon and above the rectum and anus. 

sigmoidoscope 

The rigid or flexible tube used during a sigmoidoscopy. 

sigmoidoscopy 

A procedure in which a doctor inserts a sigmoidoscope into the anus to examine the rectum and lower colon. 

sign 

An indicator that a person may have something wrong with them. Signs are determined via a physical examination or test results, e.g. an enlarged prostate gland or low blood counts. 

signet-ring tumour 

A type of adenocarcinoma (bowel cancer). 

silicone gel 

A substance used to make implants and medical devices. It can be soft and durable to create a breast prosthesis, semi-solid to fill an implant, or tough to form the outer shell of an implant.  

silicone implant 

A type of breast implant filled with silicone gel. 

silicosis 

A lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust, especially found among coal miners and stonemasons 

simulator 

An x-ray machine that is used to ensure the correct alignment of the radiation treatment beam with the tumour. 

single-blind trial 

A trial in which only the research team know whether patients are receiving the standard treatment or the new treatment. 

SIR-Spheres 

Radioactive beads that are inserted into the liver in selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT). 

sitz bath 

A shallow bath in which only the hips and buttocks are immersed. Some sitz baths are plastic bowls designed to fit on toilet seats. 

skin flap 

A procedure where nearby loose skin and underlying fatty tissue is moved over the wound left by the removal of a skin cancer and stitched. A flap keeps its blood supply.  

skin graft 

A procedure where a layer of skin is removed from one part of the body and fixed over the wound left by the removal of a cancer or other lesion from the skin. A graft does not have its own blood supply.  

skin-sparing mastectomy 

A type of mastectomy in which the whole of the skin of the breast, except the nipple and the areola, is kept. 

skull base surgery 

The surgical removal of part of the nasal cavity or sinuses. Also known as craniofacial resection. 

SLiM criteria 

A set of signs of myeloma (biomarkers of malignancy) used to help identify people who need treatment. The letters stand for the biomarkers: S = significant plasmacytosis (myeloma cells in bone marrow); Li = light chain ratio; M = MRI lesions (bone abnormalities found by MRI). Often combined with the CRAB criteria to form the SLiM-CRAB criteria. 

sling 

A piece of synthetic mesh that is surgically placed to apply pressure to the urethra and improve continence.  

slow release medicine 

A medicine that releases slowly and lasts 8-12 hours. Also known as sustained release.  

small bowel 

The middle part of the gastrointestinal tract, which takes food from the stomach and absorbs nutrients. It has 3 sections: the duodenum, the jejunum and the ileum. Also known as the small intestine. 

small bowel cancer 

A rare cancer that occurs in the small bowel. Also called small intestine cancer. 

small cell lung cancer (SCLC) 

One of the 2 main types of lung cancer. A type of lung cancer strongly associated with cigarette smoking. It tends to spread early and causes few initial symptoms. 

small lymphocytic lymphoma 

A type of slow-growing lymphoma affecting the B-cells. It is similar to chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. 

small molecule inhibitors 

A group of targeted therapy drugs that can get inside cancer cells and block proteins that tell the cells to grow. 

small molecule therapies 

Drugs that stop reactions that cause cancer cells to grow. 

smouldering myeloma 

Early myeloma that does not cause the person any problems and does not need treatment. Also called asymptomatic myeloma. 

soft tissue techniques 

A range of manual therapy techniques directed towards muscles and connective tissues in the body. 

solar keratosis  

See sunspot.  

solitary plasmacytoma 

A single tumour formed in the bone or tissue by cancerous plasma cells. 

somatostatin 

A hormone that helps to control the production of insulin by the pancreas and gastrin by the stomach. 

somatostatin analogues (SSAs) 

Medicines similar to the hormone somatostatin that are used to treat some neuroendocrine tumours. 

somatostatinoma 

A type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour that releases too much of the hormone somatostatin. 

specialist 

A doctor with qualifications and skills in a particular branch of medicine. 

specialist palliative care service 

A multidisciplinary team of health professionals specialising in palliative care. Offers a range of services to improve the quality of life of people with a life-limiting illness.  

speculum 

An instrument used to hold open the vagina during an internal examination to see the vagina and cervix more clearly. 

speech pathologist 

A university-qualified health professional who helps with speech or swallowing difficulties. 

sperm 

The male sex cell, which is made in the testicles and is required for reproduction. 

spermatic cords 

A pair of cord-like structures that run from the testicles to the abdomen. The spermatic cords contain tubes called vas deferens, as well as, blood vessels, nerves and lymph vessels.  

sperm banking 

See cryopreservation. 

sphenoid sinuses 

The sinuses located behind the nose and between the eyes. 

sphincter 

Strong muscles that form a valve. The urethral and anal sphincter muscles control the release of urine and faeces from the body. An artificial sphincter can aid people with incontinence. 

spinal column 

Brain A series of bones or segments (vertebrae) that protect the spinal cord.  

spinal cord 

The portion of the central nervous system enclosed in the spinal column, consisting of nerve cells and bundles of nerves that connect all parts of the body with the brain. 

spinal tap 

See lumbar puncture. 

spiral CT scan 

A computerised tomography scan that scans the body in a spiral path (helical pattern) to create clearer pictures. 

spiritual care practitioner 

A professional who offers emotional and spiritual care to patients and their families. Often part of the palliative care team and sometimes called a pastoral carer or chaplain. 

spirituality 

Connection with a higher being or one’s inner self, which often brings comfort and understanding about the world, one’s place in it, and the reasons behind life’s challenges.  

spiritual practices 

Connection with a higher being or one’s inner self, which often brings comfort and understanding about the world, one’s place in it and the reasons behind life’s challenges. Also called spirituality. 

spleen  

An organ in the lymphatic system located on the left side of the abdomen under the ribs. The spleen produces lymphocytes, filters the blood, and destroys old blood cells, abnormal cells and bacteria.  

An organ in the lymphatic system that makes lymphocytes, filters the blood, and destroys old blood cells, abnormal cells and bacteria. Leukaemia can cause an enlarged spleen. 

splenectomy 

Surgery to remove the spleen. 

sponsor (trial sponsor) 

The organisation, institution or company responsible for developing, financing and managing a clinical trial, and ensuring the trial meets all legal and insurance requirements.  

sporadic cancer 

Cancer occurring in an individual without a family history of cancer. 

sputum 

Liquid coughed up from the lungs. Also known as phlegm. 

sputum cytology test 

Examination of sputum under a microscope to look for cancer cells. 

squamocolumnar junction  

See transformation zone. 

squamous cell 

Thin, flat cells found on the surface of the skin, in the lining of the body’s hollow organs (such as the bladder), and in the lining of the respiratory and digestive tracts. In cervical cancer, these cells are found in the outer surface of the cervix (ectocervix).  

squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) 

Cancer that starts in the squamous cells, which are flat cells found on the surface of the skin or the lining of certain organs, such as the lungs, vagina and cervix.  

squamous cell carcinoma in situ 

An early form of skin cancer that looks like a red, scaly patch on the skin. Also called Bowen’s disease. 

squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) 

Abnormal growth of squamous cells on the surface of the cervix. Changes may be low grade (LSIL) or high grade (HSIL). 

stage 

The extent of a cancer and whether the disease has spread from an original site to other parts of the body. 

staging 

Performing tests to work out how far a cancer has spread. 

standard treatment 

The best treatment known and in current use, based on the results of past research. 

statement of claim 

An official court document used to start a court case about a debt. You must respond to a statement of claim within a particular time frame. 

statistics 

A type of mathematics used to collect and analyse large quantities of numerical data. 

stem cell research 

Research to better understand how stem cells work and how they might be used to help treat diseases. 

stem cells 

Unspecialised blood cells made in the bone marrow. They can grow into mature cells.  

stem cell transplant 

A treatment in which diseased blood cells are destroyed by high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy, then replaced by healthy stem cells. The healthy stem cells may come from the bone marrow (bone marrow transplant), from the bloodstream (peripheral blood stem cell transplant) or from umbilical cord blood (cord blood transplant). 

stent 

A metal or plastic tube placed into a blocked organ to create a passage for substances to pass through. 

stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT), stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) 

Types of external beam radiation therapy that deliver high doses of precise radiation. 

stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) 

A type of radiation therapy that delivers high doses of precise radiation. 

stereotactic surgery 

Surgery done using a computer to guide the surgeon. 

steroids 

A class of drugs mostly used to reduce inflammation. Also called corticosteroids. 

steroid therapy 

Treatment with a class of drugs used during cancer treatment to reduce inflammation; treat the cancer; relieve nausea, pain and swelling, fatigue; and boost the appetite.  

stoma 

A surgically created opening to allow urine or faeces to leave the body. Also called an ostomy. A stoma that allows urine to drain is called a urostomy.  

stoma bag/appliance 

A bag or pouch used to cover a stoma and collect urine or faeces. 

stomach 

The hollow, muscular organ between the end of the oesophagus and the beginning of the small bowel that stores and breaks down food. 

stomach cancer 

A malignant tumour in the tissue of the stomach. It often starts in the cells that line the mucosa.at 

stomal therapy nurse 

A registered nurse who specialises in caring for people with stomas. 

stools 

The bulky mass of waste matter that leaves the body through the anus. Also known as faeces or poo. 

stroma 

The connective tissue that supports the lining of the uterus (endometrium). 

stromal cell cancer 

Cancer that begins in the cells in the ovaries that release the hormones progesterone and oestrogen. 

stromal tumour 

A rare type of testicular tumour that is not usually cancerous. Includes Sertoli cell tumours and Leydig cell tumours. 

subcutaneous  

Injection under the skin. 

sublingual glands 

One of the sets of major salivary glands. They are found under the tongue. 

submandibular glands  

One of the sets of major salivary glands. They are found under the jawbone. 

submucosa 

The layer of the digestive system next to the mucosa. It has glandular cells that produce mucus and moisten the mucosa. 

substitute decision-maker 

A person who makes decisions on your behalf if you become incapable of making them yourself. The documents to appoint this person may be called an enduring power of attorney, an enduring power of guardianship or appointment of medical treatment decision-maker. 

subtotal colectomy 

Surgery that removes most of the large bowel. 

subtotal gastrectomy 

The surgical removal of part of the stomach. 

sunspot 

A red, scaly spot on the skin that is a sign of sun damage. Also called actinic or solar keratosis. 

superannuation (super) 

Money that a person and their employer put into a special fund to provide the person with money to live on after they have retired. 

superficial cancer 

Cancer that only affects cells on or near the surface. Not invasive. 

superficial skin cancer 

Cancer that only affects the cells on the surface of the top layer of the skin. 

superficial spreading melanoma 

The most common type melanoma of the skin, making up 55–60% of all cases. 

supportive care 

All forms of care and support that aim to improve the quality of life of people living with cancer, their family and carers. See palliative care.  

suppository 

Medicine placed in the bottom (rectum). 

supracricoid laryngectomy 

Surgery to remove the upper part of the larynx, including the vocal cords. 

supraglottic laryngectomy 

Surgery to remove the upper part of the larynx above the vocal cords (supraglottis). 

supra-pubic catheter 

A catheter inserted through an incision made above the pubic bone and below the bellybutton. 

surface epithelium 

A skin-like layer of the lining of the uterus (endometrium). 

surface guided radiation therapy (SGRT) 

The use of advanced camera technology instead of skin markers to track movement of the skin’s surface during set-up and delivery of radiation therapy. 

surgery 

A procedure performed by a surgeon to remove or repair a part of the body. Also known as an operation or surgical resection.  

surgical oncologist 

A doctor who specialises in treating cancer with surgery. 

surgical site 

The area of the body operated on.  

surrogacy 

When a woman (a surrogate) carries a child and gives birth on behalf of someone else. 

surveillance 

When a person does not receive immediate treatment, but instead has their health monitored regularly, with the option of future treatment if necessary. Also called active surveillance. Also describes regular check-ups after the cancer is removed to make sure it has not returned. 

surveillance policy 

Regular check-ups after a cancer is removed to make sure it has not returned. 

surveillance schedule 

A schedule setting out how often and for how long you will have follow-up exams and tests after treatment. See also active surveillance.  

survival rate 

The proportion of patients diagnosed with the same disease who are still alive after a particular period of time. 

survivorship care plan  

A schedule for follow-up care and the identification and management of medical, emotional and psychological or social problems that may arise after treatment. 

symptoms 

Changes in the body that a patient feels or sees, which are caused by an illness or treatment, e.g. pain, tiredness, rash or a stomach-ache.  

synthetic 

A substance made by chemical process to imitate a natural product. 

syringe driver 

A battery-operated pump that gives a continuous dose of a drug. 

systemic chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy that circulates throughout the body. It is usually given through a vein (intravenously) or as tablets. 

systemic treatment 

Cancer drugs that spread throughout the whole body. Includes chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. 

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T

tai chi  

Part of Chinese medicine, this exercise technique incorporates coordinated body movement, breathing techniques and meditation to create stability in the body. 

tamoxifen  

An anti-oestrogen drug used to treat breast cancer. 

TAP (transverse abdominis plane) block 

An injection of anaesthetic drugs into the abdomen to block pain. 

targeted therapy 

Drugs that target specific features of cancer cells to stop the cancer growing and spreading. 

T-cell 

A type of lymphocyte (white blood cell) that helps the body fight invaders (antigens) by killing them directly or by helping B-cells make antibodies 

telehealth 

Health care appointments done by phone or video instead of face-to-face. 

tele-trials 

Clinical trials that use telehealth to involve patients and local health professionals in different locations. 

temporal lobe 

Part of the cerebrum; responsible for understanding, language and memory. 

TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) 

A technique that involves applying a mild electric current to the skin where the pain occurs. 

terminal 

See life-limiting illness. 

terminal illness 

An illness that is unlikely to be cured and will eventually result in a person’s death. It may also be called a life-limiting illness. 

terminal restlessness 

A type of delirium featuring agitation that can occur near the end of life. 

terminal stage 

When a person who has an incurable disease is showing signs and symptoms that suggest their death is imminent. 

testes 

See testicles. 

testicles 

Two egg-shaped glands found in the scrotum that produce sperm and testosterone. Also called testes. 

testicular sperm extraction (TESE) 

Surgically removing sperm from testicular tissue. 

testosterone 

The main sex hormone in males. Testosterone is made by the testicles and promotes the development of male sex characteristics. A small amount is also made in the ovaries and helps increase sexual desire in women. 

therapeutic mammaplasty 

A breast reduction done at the same time as breast-conserving surgery. 

therapeutic touch 

A bodywork technique where the practitioner’s soothing touch calms the body by restoring the flow of energy. 

therapy 

Another word for treatment. 

thermal ablation 

Treatment that uses extreme temperatures (thermal) to destroy cancer cells without actually removing them from the body. 

thoracentesis 

A procedure in which a hollow needle is inserted between the ribs to drain excess fluid. Also called a pleural tap. See pleural tap. 

thoracic 

Relating to the chest (thorax). 

thoracoscopy 

A procedure for inspecting the lungs that uses a thoracoscope, a thin tube with a tiny video camera. The thoracoscope is inserted through a small cut in the chest under local or general anaesthetic. See also VATS.  

thoracotomy 

Surgery in which a long cut is made in the chest to examine, biopsy and/or remove a tumour. 

three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT) 

A common type of external beam radiation therapy. A computer plans the treatment based on the location of the cancer. The radiation is then shaped (conformed) so that the cancer receives high doses of radiation, but surrounding tissues receive much less.  

thrombocytopenia 

A low level of platelets. It can be a side effect of chemotherapy and makes you more prone to bleeding and bruising. 

thrombosis 

The formation of presence of a blood clot. 

thymus  

A part of the lymphatic system. It helps make the white blood cells called T-cells. An organ inside the rib cage, behind the chest. It contains lymphocytes and filters blood. 

Thyrogen® 

A brand of synthetic thyroid-stimulating hormone. It is used to test for remaining or recurring cancer cells in people treated for thyroid cancer, or to prepare for radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment.  

thyroglobulin (Tg) 

A protein made by both normal and cancerous thyroid cells. It can be measured in the bloodstream.  

thyroid 

A butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck. It produces hormones to control the body’s metabolism and calcium levels. 

thyroidectomy 

The surgical removal of the thyroid gland. Also called a total thyroidectomy. 

thyroiditis 

Benign inflammation of the thyroid. 

thyroid lymphoma 

A type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma affecting the thyroid gland. 

thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) 

A hormone that prompts the thyroid gland to produce and release the hormones T3 and T4. The pituitary and hypothalamus glands produce TSH. 

thyroxine (T4) 

One of the hormones produced by the thyroid gland that regulates the body’s metabolism. T4 can be converted into a hormone called tri-idothyronine (T3). 

tinnitus 

Continuous ringing in the ears. 

tissue  

A collection of cells of similar type that make up an organ or structure in the body. When removed from the body, tissue is sometimes called a biospecimen. 

tissue bank 

A secure place where body tissue, such as blood, is frozen and stored for future research. 

tissue banking 

When people donate their tissue for research in the future. 

tissue expander 

An inflatable implant inserted under the skin where the breast was. Itis slowly stretched with regular injections of saline until it is the same size as the natural breast. The expander is later removed and replaced with a permanent implant. 

TNM system 

A type of staging system that describes how far the cancer has spread. T stands for tumour, N for lymph nodes and M for metastasis. 

tolerance 

When the body no longer responds to a drug, so a higher dose is needed to get the same level of pain control. 

TomoTherapy  

A type of radiation therapy that allows the radiation beams to be shaped around a tumour more precisely. 

tongue analysis 

A diagnostic technique used in traditional Chinese medicine in which the tongue’s colour, shape, coating and texture are examined to find out about the state of a person’s health. 

tonsils 

Small masses of tissue on either side of the back of the mouth that help fight infection. 

topical chemotherapy  

Chemotherapy that is applied to an area of the skin as a cream or lotion.  

topical treatment 

Treatment that is applied to an area of the skin as a cream, lotion or gel. 

total body irradiation (TBI) 

A type of radiation therapy used to treat blood cancers. TBI is sometimes used with chemotherapy before a stem cell or bone marrow transplant.  

total colectomy 

Surgery that removes the entire large bowel. 

total gastrectomy 

The surgical removal of the whole stomach. 

total hysterectomy 

Surgery to remove the uterus and cervix. See also hysterectomy. 

touch therapies 

See body-based practices. 

toxicity 

See side effect.  

toxicology 

The study of poisonous substances. It is a branch of pharmacology. 

trachea 

The windpipe. The airway that brings air inhaled from the nose and mouth into the lungs. 

trachelectomy 

The surgical removal of the cervix and some surrounding tissue. 

tracheoesophageal fistula or puncture 

A surgically created opening between the trachea and oesophagus to create a low-pitched voice. 

tracheoesophageal speech 

When a person forces air between a surgically created valve between the trachea and oesophagus to create a voice-like sound. 

tracheostomy 

Surgery to make a hole at the base of the neck into the trachea (windpipe). A tracheostomy tube will be inserted into this hole to keep it open and allow you to breathe freely. 

traditional medicine (traditional therapies) 

A term used by complementary therapists to mean old systems of medicine that are passed down through the ages. Medical practitioners may use the term to mean mainstream (conventional) medicine that is practised in hospitals today. 

trans or transgender 

A term for a person whose gender identity does not match their sex assigned at birth.  

transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEMS) 

Removing rectal cancer using specially designed equipment inserted through the anus. 

transanal excision (TAE) 

Removing rectal cancer through the anus using surgical equipment. 

transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) 

A surgical platform that lets the surgeon remove a rectal cancer though the anus using laparoscopic equipment.  

transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) 

A treatment that injects chemotherapy directly into a tumour. This closes off the blood vessels so the cancer is starved of oxygen and nutrients. 

transducer 

A small device used in an ultrasound. It can be passed over the surface of the body or inserted into an opening like the vagina or rectum. 

transformation zone 

The area in the cervix where the squamous and glandular cells meet. 

transfusion 

The process of transferring body fluid (such as blood) from one person into another. 

transitional cell carcinoma 

Cancer that occurs in the cells that line parts of the urinary tract (transitional cells).  

transitional cells 

A type of cell lining many organs, including the bladder. Also called urothelial cells. 

translational research 

Research that fast-tracks results from laboratory research with the aim of getting new treatments into clinical practice quickly. 

trans-oral robotic surgery (TORS)  

Surgery to remove a tumour using robotic surgical equipment. 

transperineal (TPUS) biopsy 

Uses an ultrasound probe inserted into the rectum to guide the biopsy needle, which is inserted through the skin between the anus and the scrotum.  

transplant 

When a diseased organ is removed and replaced by a healthy organ from a donor. 

transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) 

An ultrasound using a probe that is inserted into the rectum.  

transrectal (TRUS) biopsy 

Uses an ultrasound probe inserted into the rectum to guide the biopsy needle, which is inserted through the rectum. 

transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) 

The most common type of surgery for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. A cystoscope is used to remove the tumour through the urethra. 

transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) 

A surgical procedure to remove tissue from the prostate that is restricting the flow of urine.  

transvaginal ultrasound 

A test that uses soundwaves to create pictures of the uterus, ovaries and other female reproductive organs. 

transverse colectomy 

A type of colectomy where tissue is removed from the middle of the colon. 

transverse colon 

The section of the colon between the ascending and descending colon. 

transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap 

A type of breast reconstruction that uses the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous muscle together with skin and fat to create a new breast shape. 

treatment protocol  

A detailed plan of a treatment. It outlines the drugs to be used, their dosage, the frequency, duration and side effects. 

treatment trial 

A trial that tests a new or modified treatment. 

trephine biopsy 

The removal of a bone tissue sample using a needle. 

trial of void 

A test to see how much urine is produced (void) during urination. 

triceps 

The muscle on the back of the arm between the elbow and the shoulder. 

trigger point 

A sensitive area of the body which, when stimulated, gives rise to a reaction elsewhere in the body. 

tri-idothyronine (T3) 

One of the hormones that regulates the body’s metabolism. A small amount is made by the thyroid, but it is mainly produced when the liver and kidneys convert T4 into T3.  
 

trimodali therapy 

 A combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy that is used to treat some small muscle-invasive bladder cancers.  

triple negative breast cancer 

A breast cancer that does not have receptors for the hormones oestrogen or progesterone or for the growth factor HER2, which are all known to fuel breast cancer growth. 

triple test 

Collection of 3 tests to diagnose breast cancer. Includes physical examination, breast imaging such as mammogram and ultrasound, and biopsy results. 

trismus 

Difficulty opening the mouth fully, with usually less than 2 cm between top and bottom teeth. 

Trustee 

A company or person appointed to manage your bankruptcy. 

tumour 

A new or abnormal growth of tissue on or in the body. A tumour may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). 

tumour ablation 

Treatment that focuses directly on a tumour with the aim of destroying it but not actually removing it from the body. 

tumour marker 

Chemical produced by cancer cells and released into the blood. It may suggest the presence of a tumour in the body. Markers can be found by blood tests or by testing tumour samples. 

tunica vaginalis 

A pouch of serous membrane covering the testicles. 

two-stage hepatectomy 

When a tumour is surgically removed from one lobe of the liver, then after a period of recovery and liver regrowth, another tumour is surgically removed from the other lobe of the liver. 

two-stage reconstruction 

A type of implant reconstruction completed over 2 separate operations. 

tylosis 

A genetic syndrome linked to oesophageal cancer. 

type 2 diabetes 

When the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or does not use it properly. 

tyrosine kinase 

A protein that tells cells when to divide and grow. 

tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) 

A targeted therapy drug that blocks the protein tyrosine kinase. 

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U

ulceration 

The breakdown or loss of the outer layer of skin. 

ulcerative colitis 

A benign bowel disease that may increase the risk of bowel cancer. 

ulcers 

A small wound in skin or lining of mouth or stomach.  

ultrasound  

A scan that uses soundwaves to create a picture of part of the body. An ultrasound scan can be used to measure the size and position of a tumour. 

ultraviolet (UV) radiation 

The part of sunlight that causes tanning, sunburn and skin damage. It is also produced by solariums, sun lamps and tanning beds. UV radiation cannot be seen or felt. 

undifferentiated sarcoma 

A type of uterine sarcoma. 

undischarged bankrupt 

A person who is still under the period of their bankruptcy. They have obligations to their trustee and have various restrictions on their conduct. 

unfair dismissal 

When an employee is terminated from a job and the dismissal is considered to be harsh, unjust or unreasonable. 

unlawful termination 

When a person’s employment is unlawfully ended by their employer for one of a number of reasons, including absence from work because of illness. 

unregistered health practitioner 

A health care provider who is not legally required to be registered with a government registration board. Also known as general health service provider.  

unresectable 

Not able to be surgically removed. Also called irresectable or non-resectable. 

unsecured debt 

A debt that is not linked to a particular asset, so if you stop making repayments, there is no particular asset the lender can take and sell. 

upper GI endoscopy  

See gastroscopy. 

upper tract urothelial carcinoma 

Cancer that starts in the urothelium layer of part of a kidney (renal pelvis) or ureter.  

ureteroscope 

A medical instrument used for examining the ureters. 

ureteroscopy 

A test using a thin tube with a light and camera (ureteroscope) to examine the ureters. It is performed under a general anaesthetic.  

ureters 

The tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. 

urethra 

The tube that carries urine from the bladder, as well as semen from the male sex glands, to the outside of the body.  

urinary cytology 

Checking a sample of urine for cancer cells.  

urinary diversion 

A surgical procedure to make a new way for urine to leave the body. 

urinary sphincter 

A strong muscle that forms a valve and controls the release of urine (wee) from the body.  

urinary system 

The system that removes wastes from the blood and expels them from the body in urine. It includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. 

urine 

Liquid waste from the body. Also known as wee or pee. 

urologist 

A surgeon who specialises in treating diseases of the male and female urinary system and the male reproductive system. 

urostomy 

A procedure that creates a small passageway (ileal conduit) from a piece of bowel to carry urine from the ureters to an opening (stoma) on the abdomen wall. It takes the place of the bladder. The urine drains from the stoma into a bag on the outside of the body. 

urothelial carcinoma 

Cancer that starts in the urothelium, the layer of urothelial cells that line the bladder. Sometimes called transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). 

urothelial cells 

Cells that line many organs, including the bladder and ureters. Also called transitional cells.  

urothelium 

The inner lining of the bladder [nd the urinary system. 

uterine carcinosarcoma 

A less common endometrial cancer. Also known as malignant mixed Mullerian tumour. 

uterine sarcoma 

A cancer affecting the muscle tissue of the uterus (myometrium) or the connective tissue (stroma) supporting the uterus. 

uterus  

A hollow muscular organ in a female’s lower abdomen in which a baby grows during pregnancy. Also called the womb. 

uvula 

A small piece of soft tissue at the back of the soft palate that hangs above the throat. 

UV Index 

An international standard measure of the intensity of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. 

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V

vaccine 

A substance given to stimulate the body’s production of antibodies and provide immunity against a disease. 

vagina  

A muscular canal that extends from the entrance of the uterus to the vulva. 

vaginal adenosis 

Abnormal cellular changes on the surface of the vagina. 

vaginal atrophy (atrophic vaginitis) 

Thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to a decline in oestrogen. 

vaginal dilator 

A cylinder-shaped device used to keep the vagina open and supple. 

vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN) 

A condition of the vagina that can develop into vaginal cancer if untreated. 

vaginal reconstruction 

See vaginoplasty. 

vaginal stenosis 

Narrowing of the vagina. It may be caused by radiation therapy to the pelvic area or by vaginal surgery. 

vaginectomy  

An operation that removes some or all of the vagina. 

vaginismus 

A spasm in the vaginal or pelvic muscles that may prevent sexual intercourse. 

vaginoplasty 

An operation to create a new vagina using skin and muscle from other parts of the body. Also called a vaginal reconstruction. 

vaginoscopy 

An examination of the vagina with a colposcope, a magnifying instrument with a bright light. 

vaporiser (oil burner) 

A vessel in which essential oils are placed above a flame or other heat source to release the aroma.  

vas deferens 

A pair of tubes that carry the sperm from the testicles to the prostate. 

VATS 

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Keyhole surgery performed through small cuts in the chest using a thoracoscope for guidance. See also thoracoscopy. 

vein 

A blood vessel that takes blood towards the heart. 

venous access device  

A catheter or other intravenous device surgically placed under the skin to provide access to veins. 

verrucous carcinoma 

A rare, slow-growing type of vulvar cancer that looks like a large wart.  

vertebrae 

The bones or segments of the spinal column that protect the spinal cord. 

vestibular schwannoma 

A slow-growing tumour affecting the nerves between the inner ear and the brain. Also called acoustic neuroma.  

vigorous intensity 

Hard exercise that can usually only be done for short periods of time. 

VIPomas 

A type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour that produces a hormone-like substance called vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). 

virtual colonoscopy 

A medical imaging procedure that uses a CT scanner to create and display images of the colon and rectum. 

visceral peritoneum 

The inner layer of peritoneum that lines the surface of the organs in the abdomen and pelvis. 

visceral pleura layer 

The inner layer of pleura that is attached to the lungs. 

visualisation  

Guided imagery. 

vital force (vital energy) 

The life force within the body believed to contribute to people’s health and wellbeing. It is stimulated by nourishing foods or medicines, mind–body techniques and body-based practices. 

vital signs 

Measurements of the body’s temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate and blood oxygen levels. These indicate the state of essential body functions. 

vitamins 

Essential substances found in food. The body needs vitamins to burn energy, repair tissue, assist metabolism and fight infection. 

vocal cords 

The part of the larynx that vibrates to make sounds needed for speech. Also called the glottis. 

volume 

A measure of how much cancer is in the prostate. 

volume replacement of miniflap 

A procedure to place a small flap of muscle and tissue from the back into the breast to fill in an area where cancer has been removed. 

volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) 

A type of intensity-modulated radiation therapy in which the radiation machine rotates around the treatment area while continuously delivering x-ray beams to deliver an exceptionally accurate dose of radiation to the targeted area of the body. 

voluntary assisted dying 

When a person with an incurable, life-limiting condition or illness chooses to end their own with the assistance of a doctor or health practitioner – using medicines specially prescribed by a doctor.  

voluntary euthanasia 

Choosing to die rather than suffer from the possible effects of treatment or disease. 

von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) 

A rare genetic condition that involves abnormal tumour growth in parts of the body rich in blood supply. People with VHL may have a higher risk of developing kidney cancer. 

vulva 

A female’s external sexual organs (genitals). It includes the mons pubis, labia and clitoris. 

vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) 

A condition that occurs in the skin of the vulva and can develop into vulvar cancer if untreated.  

vulvar lichen planus 

A non-cancerous condition affecting the skin in the vulvar area.  

vulvar lichen sclerosus 

A non-cancerous condition affecting the skin in the vulvar area.  

vulvar melanoma 

A type of vulvar cancer that develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells that give skin its colour.  

vulvectomy 

Removal of some or all of a woman’s outer sex organs (the vulva). In a partial vulvectomy, part of the vulva is removed; in a radical vulvectomy, the entire vulva is removed. 

vulvoscopy 

An examination of the vulva using a colposcope, a magnifying instrument with a bright light. 

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W

wart virus 

See human papillomavirus (HPV). 

waste matter 

Material remaining after food has been digested that normally leaves the body through the anus. Known as faeces, stools or poo when it leaves the body. 

watchful waiting 

Monitoring prostate cancer that is not causing problems, with a view to starting treatment if needed. 

When a person does not need immediate treatment, but instead has their health monitored regularly, with the option of future treatment if necessary. 

wedge resection 

Surgery to remove a wedge or part of a lung, but not a complete lobe. 

wellness  

Seeking good physical, mental, spiritual, emotional and social wellbeing, not just the absence of disease  

Western herbal medicine  

The use of herbs – mainly from Europe – to correct imbalances in the body and bring it back into a state of health. Herbalists prepare individual blends of herbs to address a range of symptoms. 

Whipple procedure  

Surgery to remove the head of the pancreas and surrounding structures. Also called a Whipple operation, Whipple surgery or pancreaticoduodenectomy. 

white blood cells 

One of the 3 main types of cells found in the blood. They help fight infection. Types of white blood cells include neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes. Also called leukocytes. 

whole medical systems 

Complete systems of theory and practice that have evolved in different cultures. Includes Ayurvedic medicine Chinese medicine, homeopathy and naturopathy. 

wide local excision 

A surgical procedure to remove a cancer or tissue and some healthy tissue around it. 

Wilms tumour 

A rare cancer that occurs almost exclusively in children.  

withdrawal symptoms 

A range of symptoms that occur when a drug is stopped suddenly. 

womb 

See uterus. 

working carer  

A person with paid employment who also provides unpaid physical, practical and/or emotional support to someone who has an illness or disability.  

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X

xerostomia 

Dry mouth. 

x-ray 

1. A type of high energy radiation that shows solid areas in the body such as bone. It is used to diagnose different conditions.  
2. A type of radiation that can be used for imaging (e.g. low-energy beams from a CT or x-ray machine) or radiation therapy (low-, medium- or high-energy treatment beams). 
3. A test that uses a low dose of radiation to create images of areas inside the body. Also, the type of radiation used in this test, in CT scans and in most radiation therapy. 

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Y

Yin and Yang 

An ancient Asian concept of balance used in Chinese medicine. It is based on the belief that everything is made up of opposite forces that complement each other and must be kept in balance. Yin represents coolness, gentleness and darkness; Yang represents heat, strength and light. 

yoga  

An exercise technique originating from India that focuses on breathing, stretching, strengthening and relaxation. There are many different types of yoga. 

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Z

Zoladex®

A drug that reduces the brain’s production of oestrogen-stimulating hormones.

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