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Glossary Terms: 1-10 | 11-20 | 21-30 | 31-33
D & C
:
dilatation and curettage (die-lay-shun and cure-uh-tazh): a test in which the cervix is opened slightly so that a sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus can be removed and studied.
debulk
:
to surgically reduce the volume of cancer
deoxyribonucleic acid
(dee-ok-see-ri-bo-new-CLAY-ic)
:
DNA holds genetic information on cell growth, division, and function.
dermatologist
:
a doctor who specializes in skin diseases.
DES
:
diethylstilbestrol; a synthetic form of estrogen.
descending colon
:
the third section of the colon, it continues downward on the left side of the abdomen.
detection
:
finding disease. Early detection means that the disease is found at an early stage, before it has grown large or spread to other sites. Note: many forms of cancer can reach an advanced stage without causing symptoms. Mammography can help to find breast cancer early, and the PSA blood test can help find early prostate cancer.
DHT
(dihydrotestosterone)
:
powerful form of the male hormone produced by the action of a prostate enzyme on testosterone.
diagnosis
:
identifying a disease by its signs or symptoms, and by using imaging procedures and laboratory findings. For some types of cancer, the earlier a diagnosis is made, the better the chance for long-term survival.
diaphanography
:
also called transillumination, this is a method of examining the breast. It is used primarily in younger women (40 years of age or less). The technique uses bright light to illuminate inner structures, in much the same way that children observe the blood and bones in their hands with a flashlight. It has limitations and by itself is not an adequate method of examination.
Glossary Terms: 1-10 | 11-20 | 21-30 | 31-33
