Medical dictionary

What is proton beam therapy? Proton beam therapy is a cancer treatment that uses protons to destroy cancer cells and stop the growth of tumours.  It is a type of external beam radiotherapy where a proton ray is aimed at a tumour from outside of the body. Proton beam therapy is less likely than radiotherapy to cause damage to normal tissue surrounding the cancer. It is also differ

What is pruritus? Pruritus is another term for itching. Pruritus can affect anyone, but mainly affects the elderly. It can be caused or associated with a wide variety of conditions, not just those affecting the skin. Pruritus can also be a reaction to certain substances or medication.  What are the causes of pruritis? It’s normal every once in a while to feel itching

What is a PSA test?The PSA test is a blood test that measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. This is a protein produced by normal and abnormal cells in the prostate, but too much PSA may suggest problems with the prostate.  Why is it done?The PSA test is done to assess a man's risk of prostate cancer. Early detection of prostate

What is being analysed? PSEN1, or Presenilin-1, is a gene that encodes a protein involved in the production of beta-amyloid peptides. Mutations in the PSEN1 gene have been associated with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. What does the result mean? Analysis of PSEN1 helps in identifying mutations or alterations within the gene. Abnormalities in PSEN1 can indicate a predisposition t

What is pseudarthrosis? Pseudarthrosis is a disease that occurs when a broken bone fails to heal after a fracture unless intervention (surgery) is performed. The fracture structurally resembles a fibrous joint, and for this reason, is called false joint or pseudoarthrosis. Pseudarthrosis is more common in adults and usually occurs after trauma or surgery. Children can suffer from pseudo

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a condition that affects the skin, causing patches of red rash, and flaky patches of silvery skin, which can sometimes be itchy or sore. The condition can present anywhere, but is most common on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back. It can affect men and women of any age, but is more common in adults under 35 years old. It is non-contagious and the severity di

What is psoriatic arthritis?Psoriatic arthritis is a rheumatic disease that causes joint inflammation. This condition is associated with a skin condition called psoriasis, and it tends to appear after the psoriasis. This condition tends to affect finger and toe joints, causing them to become inflamed and lose functionality. As the condition progresses, it can deform and destroy the joints. Tr

What is psychoanalysis? Psychoanalysis, developed by Sigmund Freud, is the therapeutic treatment of mental conditions which focuses on increasing your awareness of unconscious thoughts and behaviours, developing new insights into your motivations, and resolving internal conflicts. Psychoanalysis is based on the theories of Sigmund Freud who developed this method for patients who di

What is psychodermatology? Psychodermatology is branch of dermatology that recognises the link between the mind and the largest organ, our skin. It focuses on the treatment of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, rosacea and herpes using psychological methods. Psychodermatology is a relatively new treatment, but there is increasing evidence showing its efficacy as a treatment for a wide ra