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- Primary brain tumourA cancer which starts in the brain (rather than spreading to the brain from another part of the body).
- Primary cancer (primary tumour)Means the area in the body where the cancer started.
- Primary lung cancerCancer that started in the lung.
- Procarbazine (Natulan)A chemotherapy drug used in the treatment of lymphoma and brain tumours.
- ProctoscopeA thin, short tube that doctors use to look into the lowest part of your bowel (the rectum). It has a light and camera on the end and may also have a tool to take biopsies of any abnormal areas.
- ProctoscopyAn examination of the rectum (back passage) using a tube (proctoscope) put into the rectum through the anus. The doctor can see inside the rectum and take biopsies (samples of tissue) for examination under a microscope.
- ProgesteroneOne of the two female sex hormones.
- PrognosisThe likely outlook for someone with a disease. In other words, whether it is likely to be cured or controlled with treatment.
- ProgressionTo a researcher, this means that a cancer has grown by at least a quarter in size, or that new areas of cancer have appeared.
- Prokinetic agentDrugs that increase the force of contractions of the smooth muscle.
- Prophylactic cranial radiotherapy (PCR)Literally means preventative radiotherapy to the head. With some types of cancer that can spread to the brain, doctors like to give a short course of radiotherapy to the brain. The idea is that it kills off any microscopic spread that may already be there. It may also be called prophylactic(...)
- ProstateA gland found in men surrounding the urethra (tube which carries urine from the bladder to the penis). The gland makes a thick white fluid which mixes with sperm to make semen.
- Prostate cancerCancer of the prostate gland.
- Prostate specific antigenA substance produced by prostate cells and found in the blood. The level can be measured by a blood test and used as part of tests to diagnose a prostate cancer or check whether treatment is working.
- ProsthesisA false body part. Can be internal (for example, a silicon ball inserted into the scrotum to replace a testicle) or external (for example, a false breast).
- Proteasome inhibitorsProteasomes are substances found in all cells that help break down proteins. Proteasome inhibitors are drugs that interfere with the way proteasomes work, leading to a build up of proteins in the cells. This makes cells die. Research has shown that cancer cells are more sensitive to proteasome(...)
- ProtocolA detailed plan of a research trial.
- Provox valveA type of valve used to help people speak after they have had their voice box removed (total laryngectomy).
- PSA levelThe level of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by prostate cells.
- PsychiatristA doctor who specialises in treating mental illness.
- PsychologistAn expert in psychology. Psychology is the systematic investigation of the human mind, including behaviour, thinking and mood. Clinical psychologists give mental health care and counselling.
- PsychosomaticRelating to the influence of the mind on the body. Having physical symptoms that are caused or influenced by mental or emotional causes.
- PsychotherapistTrained professionals who work with people, couples, families and groups to help them overcome psychological and emotional concerns.