Cancer-Related Dictionary

A Pap smear, also known as a Papanicolaou test, is a medical screening procedure for cervical cancer in women. It involves collecting cells from the woman's cervix — the lower, narrow end of the uterus — to check for any cell abnormalities that could possibly evolve into cancerous cells. The test is generally recommended for women between the ages of 21 and 65.

A pathology report is an important medical document that presents findings from laboratory tests conducted on tissue or cell samples. This report is processed by a pathologist and often includes details such as diagnosis, severity, cell details, and suggestions for further treatment if necessary. Pathology reports assist healthcare professionals in providing appropriate disease management strategies.

Phlebotomy is a healthcare process that involves drawing blood from patients for various purposes such as medical testing, donations, or research. This procedure is typically performed by a phlebotomist, a specialized medical professional trained to collect blood samples correctly and safely.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a medical treatment method which uses light-sensitive compounds, activated under specific light to destroy abnormal cells or pathogens. Widely used to tackle cancers and severe skin conditions, the therapy selectively damages the targeted cells while sparing healthy ones.

A prophylactic mastectomy is a preventive surgical procedure performed to remove one or both breasts to minimize the risk of developing breast cancer. It is typically considered by individuals with a high risk of breast cancer due to genetic mutations or a strong family history of the disease.