Glossary

A doctor who specialises in looking at cells and tissues using a microscope; also referred to as a cytologist (cells) or histopathologist (tissue).

A condition in which inflammation occurs in the area around the main ducts beneath the nipple. It is related to cigarette smoking and causes recurrent abscess and fistulae. It is very difficult to treat if the woman continues to smoke.

A rare type of breast lump that may grow quite large, normally occur in women between 40 and 50 who have not yet been through the menopause. They are usually benign but occasionally can be malignant. Usually treated by surgical removal.

Progesterone is one of two main hormones, the other being oestrogen, made by ovaries of menstruating women.

A radiographer is the person trained in taking xrays.

A radiotherapist is a doctor specialising in treating disease using radiotherapy.

Painless form of high energy x-ray treatment used to destroy cancer cells carried out by a Clinical Oncologist/ Radiotherapist.

They originate from blocked oil glands in the skin. They are found on most areas of the body including the breast. Cysts can become red and tender when infected and have a collection of pus. They are always benign and do not develop into cancer but although normally a cosmetic problem excision is advised when formed in places that are easily irritated so will continually recur.

An operation in which most of the skin of the breast is left behind, apart from the nipple areola complex. This helps if an immediate reconstruction is being carried out as the original skin of the breast can be used. Suitability for this type of reconstruction will depend on the type of cancer present.

Medication for the treatment of breast cancer, which can also be used as a low dose treatment for breast pain.

Consultant and Examination (Assessment), Analysis of cells removed by fine needle aspiration (Cytology) and Mammography and/or Ultrasound (Imaging.).

A breast abscess caused by the tuberculosis bacteria. Unlike a normal breast abscess this is not usually associated with redness or heat and is often called a cold abscess.

High frequency sound waves which are converted into an image of the breast. Ultrasound is used to diagnose breast problems in women under the mammogram age limit of 35, or as an additional investigation for patients who have had a mammogram.

This is a term used to describe the breast of some people affected by certain genomic, or genetic breast cancers, which are more likely to be multi-centric or to spread through the breast.

An operation to remove, for pathological review, a suspicious or cancerous lump with a small margin of normal tissue around its edge.

Excision biopsy, by a breast surgeon guided by a consultant radiologist, using a wire placement, or skin marking prior to surgery. It is used to remove an impalpable abnormality (one that could not be detected by physical examination).

X-Ray is a form of invisible electromagnetic, short wavelength energy, that can be used to produce images of bones, organs and internal tissues.

Zoladex is a type of hormonal therapy that is used in the treatment of breast cancers and some other conditions for women who have not had the menopause. It stops the production of leuteinising hormone from the pituitary gland, which leads to a reduction in oestrogen levels. The cancer cells then grow more slowly or stop growing altogether. The cancer may shrink in size.