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General anaesthesia

The procedure to inject the investigational therapy into the spinal cord will be made under general anaesthesia. A person under general anaesthesia will not move, feel pain, or remember anything about the procedure. Doctors use a special anaesthetic medicine to induce this deep sleep state. The study team monitors the patient closely until the procedure is complete and the patient wakes up naturally a few minutes later.

AS symptoms

The symptoms of AS are wide ranging and vary for each individual. This is reflected in the wide range of measurements that will be used in this study. These measurements will help us understand the impact of the investigational therapy on symptoms relating to seizures, sleep disruption, anxiety and aggression.

Angelman Syndrome

Angelman Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects how a baby's nervous system develops, it can happen to both boys and girls. The main cause of AS is a problem with a gene called UBE3A, but sometimes there can be issues with other genes too.

Investigational therapy

Investigational therapy is a medicine, device, vaccine, or other treatment being tested in the study and reviewed by health authorities.

Acute pain

Acute pain is a sharp pain that comes on quickly and lasts a short time.

Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is a cancer that starts in the glands of the body that produce fluids. These glands line organs and make mucus or juices, e.g. in the gut.

Adjuvant treatment

Adjuvant therapy is a type of medicine given after their main treatment, such as surgery or ablation. This may help to slow down or stop cancer from coming back. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: ablation

Advanced cancer

Advanced cancer is often a large tumour. It may have started spreading in the body. It usually affects surrounding tissues or lymph nodes first. It can also be a tumour that has come back after being treated.

Age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is an eye health issue where the part of the back of the eye that helps see fine details and colour is damaged.

AMD

A medical condition that causes blurred or reduced vision in the centre of one or both eyes caused by damage to an area of the retina in the back of the eye called the macula.

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is a test done during pregnancy to check for potential medical issues in the growing baby. During this test, a small amount of fluid is taken from around the baby in the womb.

Anaemia

Anaemia is a common health condition where the body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to all parts of the body.

Angiogenesis

The growth of blood vessels. Tumour angiogenesis is the growth of new blood vessels that cancers need in order to grow.

Anti-inflammatory

Anti-inflammatory is a medicine that brings down swelling or pain.

Antibody

Antibodies are created by cells of the immune system and are carried around the body by blood and lymph. They stick, for example, to cells or parts of cells in an individual’s body to determine if the cells are good or bad. Antibodies that stick to bacteria and viruses, which cause infections, help the body to destroy the bacteria and viruses, protecting the body against infection. Certain types of antibodies (called monoclonal antibodies), made in the laboratory instead of the body, can detect bad cells in the body such as cancer cells and help to destroy them.

Antibodies

Antibodies are created by cells of the immune system and are carried around the body by blood and lymph. They stick, for example, to cells or parts of cells in an individual’s body to determine if the cells are good or bad. Antibodies that stick to bacteria and viruses, which cause infections, help the body to destroy the bacteria and viruses, protecting the body against infection. Certain types of antibodies (called monoclonal antibodies), made in the laboratory instead of the body, can detect bad cells in the body such as cancer cells and help to destroy them.

Antiviral medicine

Antiviral medicine is a special kind of medicine that helps the body fight off viruses, which are tiny germs that can make a person sick. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects airways or bronchial tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. It causes the airways to narrow, swell and produce extra mucus, which in turn makes it more difficult to breathe. The narrowing of the airways causes a feeling of shortness of breath or coughing fits.

Autoimmune disease

Autoimmune disease is a group of diseases where the immune system of an organism attacks it's own healthy cells or structures in the body. Autoimmune diseases can affect different parts of the body such as the gut (for example Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), the joints (for example rheumatoid arthritis) or the skin (for example psoriasis). Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Best supportive care

Care that focuses on relieving the symptoms caused by serious illnesses (for example cancer)

Biological therapy/treatment

A therapy based on products from a living organism and used in the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of cancer and other diseases. Biological drugs include for instance antibodies, interleukins, and vaccinations.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small piece of tissue, skin, liver, or tumour is removed by a doctor for further testing.

Blinding

Blinding means that people involved in clinical trials do not know whether they are given the new drug being tested, an older drug that is known to work, or a placebo that does not contain any active drug. This makes it easier to understand if a new drug works well.

Bone marrow transplant

Bone marrow transplant is a medical process where a person gets new healthy stem cells. These new cells replace damaged ones. The damaged cells may be due to health conditions, treatments, or radiation. The new cells can be from the person's own body. In other cases, it can be from their twin or another person.

Bypassing agent

Bypassing agent is a medicine used to treat people with bleeding disorders where the blood doesn't clot properly (like haemophilia). Bypassing agents help stop bleeding in situations where the usual clotting proteins are not doing their job. They work by creating a detour around the problem in the blood clotting process.

Cancer

Cancer is a health condition where the body's cells start growing and multiplying in an uncontrolled and abnormal way. Instead of following the usual pattern of cell division and growth, these cells form a lump or mass called a tumour.

CIT

A type of therapy that encourages or suppresses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells.

Cancer of unknown primary site

Cancer of unknown primary site is a health condition in which cancer is found in a part of the body, but it is not known where it started. At diagnosis, different parts of the person's body may have cancer.

CUP-hidden

The term used when cancer is found in a patient’s body, but the original (or primary) place the cancer started is not known. At the time of diagnosis, CUP presents as metastasis at different places across the body.

Capsule endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a procedure that uses a tiny wireless camera to take pictures of the digestive tract.

Carrier

A carrier is a person who carries a genetic change, such as a mutation or faulty gene, that can cause a disease. However, carriers themselves may not show any symptoms or develop the disease associated with the genetic change. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: genetic, gene

Checkpoint inhibitors

Checkpoint inhibitors are medicines that "release the brakes" on the immune system. They work by blocking these checkpoints, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Chemotherapy

Drugs that stop cancer growing, either by killing the cancer cells or by stopping them from dividing.

Chorionic villus sampling

A test done during pregnancy to take a small number of cells from the placenta connecting the mother to her baby in the womb to test for conditions in the growing baby.

Chromosome

Genes are packaged as chromosomes (a long chain of genes folded up tightly to fit in a cell). There are 23 pairs of chromosomes in each cell of an individual without any genetic disorders. One-half of the pair comes from the mother, the other half from the father.

Chronic

Chronic is something that continuous for a long period of time.

Chronic kidney dysfunction

A term that describes life-long disorders of the kidney.

Chronic metabolic diseases

Chronic metabolic diseases is a group of diseases that can disrupt metabolism, which is the process of converting food to energy on a cellular level. Some examples are obesity, diabetes, liver diseases and high blood pressure. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: metabolism

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

A term that describes a group of lung diseases including emphysema (the destruction of lung tissue that allows people to breathe), chronic bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs) and refractory (non-reversible) asthma. These conditions are life-long.

COPD

A term that describes a group of lung diseases including emphysema (the destruction of lung tissue that allows people to breathe), chronic bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs) and refractory (non-reversible) asthma. These conditions are life-long.

Chronic pain

Ongoing pain lasting more than 12 weeks.

Chronic respiratory disease

Chronic respiratory disease is a group of lung conditions that make it hard to breathe. It can also affect the tissues that aid in breathing. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: Chronic

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is liver scarring that happens over time due to previous damage. The liver starts to make thick, hard scar tissue instead of new liver cells. This scarring can cause problems with the way the liver works.

Clinical trial

A clinical trial is a study to test new medicines, devices, or treatments to find out if they are safe and work well in people.

Cognitive dysfunction

The impairment of the intellectual functions such as thinking, remembering and reasoning that can be subclinical or bad enough to get in the way of daily activities.

Colorectal cancer

The colon and rectum make up the large intestine, which is the final part of the gut (or the digestive or gastrointestinal) system. Colorectal cancer (also known as bowel cancer) is a broad term meaning cancer that develops in the colon or rectum.

CRC

The colon and rectum make up the large intestine, which is the final part of the gut (or the digestive or gastrointestinal) system. Colorectal cancer (also known as bowel cancer) is a broad term meaning cancer that develops in the colon or rectum.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is a test where a doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera on it to look inside the large intestine.

CT

Also known as computerised tomography. A type of scan that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body.

Corticosteroids

A steroid hormone that can be made by the body or in a laboratory. Corticosteroids have many different effects in the body, and are used to treat many different conditions. They may be used as hormone replacement, to suppress the immune system, and to treat some side effects of cancer and its treatment.

Crohn’s disease

Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It causes swelling of the tissues (inflammation) in the digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhoea, fatigue and weight loss.

Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a health condition that can be passed down from parents. It causes a thick liquid called mucus to build up in different parts of the body.

DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid

Also known as deoxyribonucleic acid. Genetic instructions used in the development, growth, functioning and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses.

Diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a group of health conditions that cause a person's blood sugar to become too high. This happens when the body does not make enough insulin or does not respond to insulin the way it should. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: insulin

Diarrhoea

Frequent, loose and watery bowel movements.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most common type of lymphoma. It affects a type of immune cell called B cells. It often starts in lymphoid tissues and can spread to other organs. The cells look bigger than other cancers when seen under a microscope. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune

DLBCL

The most common type of lymphoma and the most common type of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which spreads all over lymph nodes rapidly.

Double blinding

Double blinding means that both the researchers running the clinical trial and the people taking part in the clinical trial do not know which drug a person is given until after the clinical trial has finished.

Dry age-related macular degeneration

Dry age-related macular degeneration is the most common form of age-related macular degeneration, occurring in around nine out of ten patients. It is caused by the layers of the macula, in the back of the eye, slowly becoming thinner as old cells die without being replaced by the body. This causes the macula to gradually stop working properly with vision in the centre of the eye slowly being lost.

Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a test where a doctor uses a flexible tube (called a scope) with a camera on one end to look inside the body.

EGFR

Also known as epidermal growth factor receptor. The protein found on the surface of some cells. When epidermal growth factor binds to EGFR the cells divide, creating new cells. An alteration in the EGFR gene can lead to cancer.

Estrogen receptor

Oestrogen receptors are like little proteins found on certain cells in the female reproductive tissue, as well as some other types of tissue and cancer cells. These receptors can be like little "locks" that the oestrogen receptors can "unlock" and cause the cells to grow

ER-positive

"ER-positive" or "ER+" means that some types of cancer cells have more oestrogen receptors on their surface than usual. These receptors can make the cancer cells grow. In particular, when it comes to the hormone called oestrogen, checking how many receptors there are on the cancer cells can help doctors decide on the best treatment for the patient. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone, oestrogen receptors

ER+

"ER-positive" or "ER+" means that some types of cancer cells have more oestrogen receptors on their surface than usual. These receptors can make the cancer cells grow. In particular, when it comes to the hormone called oestrogen, checking how many receptors there are on the cancer cells can help doctors decide on the best treatment for the patient. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone, oestrogen receptors

PR-positive

"PR-positive" or "PR+" means that some types of cancer cells have more progesterone receptors on their surface than usual. These receptors can make the cancer cells grow. In particular, when it comes to the hormone called progesterone, checking how many receptors there are on the cancer cells can help doctors decide on the best treatment for the patient. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone, progesterone receptors

PR+

"PR-positive" or "PR+" means that some types of cancer cells have more progesterone receptors on their surface than usual. These receptors can make the cancer cells grow. In particular, when it comes to the hormone called progesterone, checking how many receptors there are on the cancer cells can help doctors decide on the best treatment for the patient. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone, progesterone receptors

European Medicines Agency

European Union agency whose role is to protect and promote public health by overseeing the use of medicinal products in Europe Union member states. The EMA’s scientific committees review the evidence from clinical trials and make a recommendation on whether a medicine should be made available for the treatment of a particular disease. The decision is based upon several factors, including how well the medicine works and how safe the medicine is.

EMA

European Union agency whose role is to protect and promote public health by overseeing the use of medicinal products in Europe Union member states. The EMA’s scientific committees review the evidence from clinical trials and make a recommendation on whether a medicine should be made available for the treatment of a particular disease. The decision is based upon several factors, including how well the medicine works and how safe the medicine is.

Extranodal disease

When cancerous lymphocytes (white blood cells) travel to sites of the body other than the lymph nodes (for example the lungs, liver, blood, bone marrow, kidneys, brain, and spinal cord).

Factor 8/9

Also known as factor VIII/IX. Haemophilia is caused by an alteration (a defect or change) in a person’s genes. People with haemophilia A have a defect in a gene called factor 8 and people with haemophilia B have a defect in a gene called factor 9. In both cases, the affected gene is either missing or does not work.

Factor 8

Factor 8 is a crucial protein in the blood that helps it to clot. Haemophilia A happens when a person does not have enough factor 8, which means their blood doesn't clot properly.

Factor 9

Factor 9 is a crucial protein in the blood that helps it to clot. Haemophilia B happens when a person does not have enough factor 9, which means their blood doesn't clot properly.

Food and Drug Administration

US agency whose role is to protect and promote public health in the US. The FDA decides if evidence from clinical trials has shown that a new medicine works well enough and is safe enough to be approved for use in the treatment of a particular disease.

FDA

US agency whose role is to protect and promote public health in the US. The FDA decides if evidence from clinical trials has shown that a new medicine works well enough and is safe enough to be approved for use in the treatment of a particular disease.

Fibrin

Fibrin is a protein that acts like a bandage over a cut. It creates a web-like layer over damaged blood vessels.

Fistulas

Abnormal channels or passageways that form from one internal organ to another, or to the outside surface of the body. They can occur in any part of the body, but they are most common in the digestive system.

Follicular lymphoma

Follicular lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that is the most common form of low-grade, or slow-growing, non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This type of lymphoma typically starts in the lymph nodes, which are small organs that are part of the body's immune system.

Gene

Gene is a section of DNA that has instructions for making the body. Genes are passed on from parents to their children and contain all the information needed to make the body – from eye colour to blood type.

Genetic carrier

A person who is capable of passing on a genetic alteration associated with a disease, but who may or may not display disease symptoms themselves.

Genetics

Genetics is the science of how certain traits or characteristics are passed from parents to their children through genes. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Genomic profile

Genomic profile is information about specific genes, including how they are different from one person to another, used to help diagnose a health condition or select the best available treatment. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Glucorticoids

A type of corticosteroid medication that is used to treat a range of diseases caused by inflammation, including rheumatoid arthritis, by suppressing the body’s immune system.

Haematuria

Blood in the urine.

Hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. Most people are first diagnosed with HCC once it has spread to surrounding tissues or lymph nodes (known as ‘advanced HCC’) or to other parts of the body (known as ‘metastatic HCC’).

HCC

The most common type of liver cancer. HCC begins when alterations (defects or changes) occur in hepatocyte (specialised liver cell) DNA. These alterations affect the DNA instructions and can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and eventually the formation of a tumour.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medicines, and certain medical conditions can all cause hepatitis. However, hepatitis is often caused by a virus. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Hepatitis virus

Hepatitis virus is a virus that can make the liver swell up and become inflamed. It can also cause long-term problems with the liver. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

HER2

HER2, also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, is a protein involved in normal cell growth. It can be made in larger than normal amounts by some types of cancer cells, including breast cancer, and cause cancer cells to grow more quickly. Checking the amount of HER2 on some types of cancer cells may help to plan treatment.

HER2+

Also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. HER2 is a protein involved in normal cell growth. It can be made in larger than normal amounts by some types of cancer cells, including breast cancer, and cause cancer cells to grow more quickly. When cancers have more HER2 than normal, they are called ‘HER2-positive’ or ‘HER2+’. Checking the amount of HER2 on some types of cancer cells may help to plan treatment.

HER2-positive

Also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. HER2 is a protein involved in normal cell growth. It can be made in larger than normal amounts by some types of cancer cells, including breast cancer, and cause cancer cells to grow more quickly. When cancers have more HER2 than normal, they are called ‘HER2-positive’ or ‘HER2+’. Checking the amount of HER2 on some types of cancer cells may help to plan treatment.

Hormone treatment

Hormone treatment is medicine that changes the level of hormones in the body to treat health issue.

Host cell

The human body is made up of cells. Sometimes, a virus or germs enter and live in one of these cells. This cell then acts like a house for the virus or germ by providing shelter and food. The virus also uses the host cell to make more of itself. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

HIV

HIV is a virus that can weaken the immune system, making it harder for a person's body to fight off infections. It is a serious virus that can lead to AIDS if not treated. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus, immune system

Immune cells

White blood cells that protect the body from foreign (or harmful) substances, cells and viruses by creating an immune response.

Immune tolerance induction

A method where medicine is given regularly over a period of time until the body is trained to recognise the treatment product without reacting (without forming an immune response) to it.

Investigator-initiated studies

Investigator Initiated Studies (IIS) are studies that are designed and run by researchers who do not work for a pharmaceutical company. In these studies, a pharmaceutical company such as Roche may support the study.

ITI

A method where medicine is given regularly over a period of time until the body is trained to recognise the treatment product without reacting (without forming an immune response) to it.

Immune system

The immune system is the body's natural defence, which protects the body from foreign or harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Immunosuppression

Immunosuppression is when immune system, the body's natural defence, is weakened. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a medical treatment that helps the body fight off diseases.

Implant

An implant is a special device that doctors place inside the body through surgery. It can do different things like delivering medicine, replacing a damaged or missing body part, or even monitoring and measuring what's happening inside the body.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a health condition that makes parts of the digestive system, like the stomach and intestines, become swollen. This can cause problems like tummy pain, diarrhoea, and sometimes bleeding.

IBD

A condition that causes inflammation of the digestive system. Inflammation is the body’s reaction to an injury, infection or irritation and can cause redness, swelling and pain. There are two common types of IBD, which are called Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While these can have the same symptoms, they can affect different parts of the digestive system.

Influenza

Influenza is a sickness that can spread from person to person. It is caused by tiny germs called influenza viruses, which infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Flu

The flu is a relatively common infection of the airways that causes fever, intense aching and cold-like symptoms, a general feeling of weakness and pain in the muscles, and often headaches. It is caused by the influenza virus.

Influenza virus

Influenza virus is a virus that causes the flu, a sickness that can make a person feel feverish, achy, and unwell. There are two main types of human flu viruses: types A and B. The flu A and B viruses that routinely spread in people are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Intracranial haemorrhage

Intracranial haemorrhage is a condition where there's bleeding inside the brain. This results in severe headaches, confusion, loss of conscious, or even paralysis.

Intravenous infusion

An intravenous infusion is where medicine is given directly into the bloodstream over time in a controlled, steady manner. This is usually done in a clinic as it involves a plastic tube inserted into a vein so that the amount and speed of the medicine can be carefully controlled by a healthcare professional over a period of time.

Large cell carcinoma

Large cell carcinoma is a type of lung cancer where the cells in a sample look bigger and not usual when seen under a microscope.

Lymphatic system

Lymphatic system is a part of the body's defence system against infections and diseases. It includes various tissues and organs that work together to produce, store, and transport white blood cells, which are the cells that help fight off infections.

Lymphocyte

Lymphocyte is a type of white blood cells that help the body fight off germs and infections.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a blood cancer that starts in the vessels of the lymphatic system. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: lymphatic system

Macula

The macula is an area in the back of the eye, near the centre of the retina, which is the part of the eye that has the best vision.

Metastatic cancer

Metastatic cancer is a tumour that has spread from where it originally began to another organ or tissue (for example breast cancer cells that move to the bone).

Monoclonal antibody treatment

Monoclonal antibody treatment is a type of medicine that help the immune system identify and destroy specific disease cells, cancer cells, or viruses. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system, virus

MRI

Also known as magnetic resonance imaging. A type of scan that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves linked to a computer to produce detailed images of the inside of the body.

mTOR inhibitor

A medicine that blocks mTOR, which can cause cancer cells to die.

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a health condition in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Mutation, more universally referred to as an alteration

A sudden or inherited change in the DNA pattern that makes up a gene, so that the gene is different from what is found in healthy cells of humans or animals, or any other living organism. An alteration can induce cancer.

Myelin

A substance that surrounds nerve fibres, insulating them like electrical wires, so that electrical signals pass through them easily.

Neoadjuvant therapy/treatment

Treatment given before surgery to shrink a tumour.

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration

A form of age-related macular degeneration that can cause a patient to lose their eyesight very quickly, sometimes within a few weeks. This is caused by unhealthy blood vessels growing under the macula (part of the retina at the back of the eye) where they would not normally grow. The new unhealthy vessels can cause swelling and bleeding under the macula causing scarring and loss of vision.

Wet age-related macular degeneration

A form of age-related macular degeneration that can cause a patient to lose their eyesight very quickly, sometimes within a few weeks. This is caused by unhealthy blood vessels growing under the macula (part of the retina at the back of the eye) where they would not normally grow. The new unhealthy vessels can cause swelling and bleeding under the macula causing scarring and loss of vision.

Nephrectomy

Removal of the kidney by surgery.

Neuromuscular disorders

Neuromuscular disorders are a group of rare conditions that affect different parts of the neuromuscular system. These conditions impact muscles, nerves in the peripheral nervous system (arms and legs), nerves in the central nervous system (spinal cord), and the neuromuscular junction where nerves and muscles meet. The majority of neuromuscular diseases are caused by genetic changes. Some of these conditions can be inherited from family members, while others result from non-inherited genetic changes, unusual immune system responses, or unknown causes.

Non-small-cell lung cancer

The most common type of lung cancer. There are three main types of NSCLC (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma), which are determined from the way the tumour cells appear when looked at under a microscope.

NSCLC

The most common type of lung cancer. There are three main types of NSCLC (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma), which are determined from the way the tumour cells appear when looked at under a microscope.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

A type of cancer that starts in white blood cells called lymphocytes, which help protect the body from infection. Lymphocytes become abnormal and are unable to fight infections. The abnormal lymphocytes tend to collect in the lymph nodes and spleen, causing them to swell and form cancerous tumours.

NHL

A type of cancer that starts in white blood cells called lymphocytes, which help protect the body from infection. Lymphocytes become abnormal and are unable to fight infections. The abnormal lymphocytes tend to collect in the lymph nodes and spleen, causing them to swell and form cancerous tumours.

Non-steroidal antiinflammatory

An anti-inflammatory medicine used to reduce swelling (inflammation).

Optical coherence tomography

A scan that uses light and a computer to provide a cross sectional image of the retina.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a health condition in which bones break easily. It causes weak bones and pain.

Pancolitis

Pancolitis is when the entire large intestine is inflamed. It causes an aching tummy, weakness, weight loss, cramping, and other signs.

Peripheral vision

The ability to see objects and movement outside of the direct line of vision (side vision).

Placebo

Placebo is a medicine that contains no active ingredients but looks the same as the study drug. This means that it does not have any medicine-related effect on the body.

Platinum-doublet chemotherapy

A combination of two cancer-killing drugs that contain platinum, which are given together and used to treat certain forms of lung cancer.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a health issue with the lungs. An infection from germs like bacteria and viruses causes it. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Progesterone receptor

Progesterone receptors are like little proteins found on certain cells in the female reproductive tissue, as well as some other types of tissue and cancer cells. These receptors can be like little "locks" that the progesterone receptors can "unlock" and cause the cells to grow.

PR-positive PR+

"PR-positive" or "PR+" means that some types of cancer cells have more progesterone receptors on their surface than usual. These receptors can make the cancer cells grow. In particular, when it comes to the hormone called progesterone, checking how many receptors there are on the cancer cells can help doctors decide on the best treatment for the patient. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone, progesterone receptors

Proctitis

Proctitis is a health condition where the lining of the rectum becomes inflamed. The rectum is found at the end of the large colon.

Prophylactic treatment

A treatment to protect a person from a disease (or the symptoms) they have, or may be exposed to. For example, prophylactic treatment can be given to patients with haemophilia (who are at risk of severe bleeds) to prevent their bleeds before they happen.

Protein

Proteins are large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body. They do most of the work in cells and form almost everything in the body, from hair and skin to cells.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is a type of treatment where high energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells.

Randomised

A method in clinical trials using chance (like flipping a coin) to split a group of patients into two or more smaller groups. Patients in the different groups are given different drugs so one can be compared with another.

Recombinant DNA

Recombinant DNA is a form of artificial DNA that is created when pieces of DNA from different sources are joined together. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: DNA

Remission

When the signs and symptoms of cancer or other diseases disappear. A remission can be temporary or permanent.

Renal cell carcinoma

The most common type of kidney cancer. About nine out of ten of kidney cancers are RCC.

RCC

The most common type of kidney cancer. About nine out of ten of kidney cancers are RCC.

Resection

Partial or complete removal of an organ, tissue or structure by surgery.

Rheumatoid arthritis

An inflammatory disease of the joints of the body, which causes painful swelling.

Sarcoma

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that can start in the muscles or bones.

Seizure disorder

A condition where a person has multiple attacks causing convulsions, muscle spasms and sometimes loss of consciousness.

Small-cell lung cancer

A type of lung cancer. The type of lung cancer is determined from the way the tumour cells appear when examined under a microscope.

Sickle cell anaemia

Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic condition where red blood cells have different shapes. These cells are like sickles or crescent moons instead of being round. These unusual blood cells can get stuck in the blood vessels. This can cause pain and make it hard for the body to get enough oxygen.

Side effects

An unwanted effect of a drug or medical treatment. For example, some chemotherapies can cause hair loss.

Sponsor

Sponsor is an individual or a company or an institution responsible for start and management of the research study.

Spontaneous bleeding

Bleeding that occurs in someone who has not had any damage or trauma to their body because they have a disorder that stops their blood clotting when it should.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the flat cells known as squamous cells, which line the surface of the airways in the lungs.

Stem cell transplant

A stem cell transplant, also known as a bone marrow transplant, is a medical procedure where a patient receives healthy blood-forming cells, called stem cells. These stem cells are used to replace their own stem cells that have been damaged or destroyed by disease or high-dose treatments like radiation or chemotherapy.

Strictures

Areas of the bowel that have narrowed due to the growth of scar tissue from repeated inflammation (swelling) and healing.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that specifically focuses on the abnormal cells (e.g. cancer cells) in the body, while causing less harm to the normal cells.

Triple-negative breast cancer

A type of cancer where tumour cells do not have receptors for the hormones estrogen and progesterone or the protein HER2. This type of cancer cannot be treated with standard hormone treatment or targeted treatment. Patients would usually be given surgery or chemotherapy.

TNBC

A type of cancer where tumour cells do not have receptors for the hormones estrogen and progesterone or the protein HER2. This type of cancer cannot be treated with standard hormone treatment or targeted treatment. Patients would usually be given surgery or chemotherapy.

Trivalent vaccine

A vaccine that contains three types of dead, inactive virus strains that cannot cause infection.

Tyrosine kinase

Tyrosine kinases are a part of many cell functions, including cell growth and dividing. They may be too active or high levels may be found in some types of cancer cells, so blocking them may help to keep cancer cells from growing.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

These drugs block tyrosine kinases, which are part of the specific communication process that controls the basic activities of cells that can cause cancer to grow uncontrollably.

Ulcerative colitis

A condition that causes inflammation in the inner lining of the rectum and the lower colon. As well as inflammation, patients with ulcerative colitis can also develop ulcers on the lining of their colon that can bleed and produce mucus, resulting in diarrhoea (frequent loose stools or bowel movements) and bleeding from the rectum.

Vaccination

Vaccination is giving a person protection against disease.

VEGF

Also known as vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors. VEGF is a protein that is involved in creating new blood vessels, and treatment with VEGF inhibitors stops new unwanted blood vessels from growing.

Virus

Virus is a kind of germ that can make people feel sick. It infects body cells and may cause health conditions.

Trial Length

The trial length is calculated as the whole duration of the trial, from the (estimated / actual) start date to the (estimated / actual) end date from CT.gov. The period of time the patient is participating in the trial may be shorter.

mTOR

Also known as mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin. A protein that helps control several cell functions, including cell division and survival, and may be more active in some types of cancer cells than it is in normal cells.

Leukaemia

Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer that often starts in the bone marrow. These affected cells act like abnormal white blood cells.

Solid tumours

A tumour that does not contain any liquid or cysts.

Acute myeloid leukaemia

Acute myeloid leukaemia is a blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells. In AML, the bone marrow produces too many immature and abnormal white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which can crowd out the healthy blood cells. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, infections, and bleeding problems. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: platelets

AML

A particular type of leukaemia that progresses quickly and affects the myeloid cells. The myeloid cells are white blood cells that fight bacterial infections, defend the body against parasites and prevent the spread of tissue damage.

Acute lymphocytic leukaemia

A particular type of leukaemia that progresses quickly and affects the lymphocytes. The lymphocytes are white blood cells that fight viruses.

Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that mostly affects young children. It starts in certain nerve cells called neuroblasts, which are found in developing nerve tissue.

Lumbar puncture

A procedure where a needle is inserted into the spine to collect spinal fluid and/or inject drugs into the spinal fluid.

Investigator-Initiated Trial

Investigator Initiated Trials are clinical trials that are designed and run by researchers who don’t work for a pharmaceutical company. These trials may be partly funded by Roche.

Motor neurons

What are motor neurons? Motor neurons are nerve cells that control muscle movement. Upper motor neurons send messages from the brain to the spinal cord, and lower motor neurons send messages from the spinal cord to the muscles. They form part of the neuromuscular system and are essential for day-to-day activities like breathing, holding your head up, walking and even holding a book.

Bone marrow

A soft, spongy tissue that is found in the centre of most bones and is where most blood cells are made.

Accommodation disorder

Accommodation disorder is an issue with the eyes when they cannot focus on objects.

Achievement of 20/40 or better Snellen vision

Achievement of 20/40 or better Snellen vision is when someone can see at 20 feet (6 metre) what a person with typical vision can see at 40 feet (12 metre). This is measured using an eye chart with letters on. Maintaining a vision of 20/40 or better is often the minimum requirement to keep a driving license in many countries, including the US, UK, and others.

Acronym (study acronym)

The acronym is short study name used to identify a clinical study (not all studies have one).

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a serious lung condition that happens when the lungs become inflamed, causing blood vessels to swell and leak fluid into the air sacs (alveoli). This prevents the lungs from working well. It also makes it hard to get oxygen into the blood. As a result, other vital organs can get damaged, such as the heart, kidneys, liver, or brain.

Addison's Disease

Addison's Disease is a health condition where a part of the body called the adrenal glands doesn't produce enough of a hormone called cortisol. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: adrenal glands, hormone

Adrenal insufficiency

Addison's Disease is a health condition where a part of the body called the adrenal glands doesn't produce enough of a hormone called cortisol. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: adrenal glands, hormone

Adjuvant therapy

Adjuvant therapy is a type of medicine given after their main treatment, such as surgery or ablation. This may help to slow down or stop cancer from coming back. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: ablation

Adrenal glands

Adrenal glands are two small organs in the body, which are located on top of each kidney. They are part of the complex endocrine system, which is network of glands and organs. It uses hormones to control and coordinate body's metabolism, energy level, reproduction, growth and development, and response to injury, stress, and mood. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormones, metabolism

Adverse event

Adverse event is a negative or unwanted effect happened after using medicine or a medical product.

Adverse reaction

Adverse reaction is when a medical treatment causes a health issue for a person.

Agonist

Agonist is a medicine that helps the cells in the body do what they are supposed to do when they cannot do it on their own.

Agranulocytosis

Agranulocytosis is a condition where a person has an extremely low number of granulocytes (a type of white blood cell), which are crucial for the body's immune system to fight infections. A big drop in the number of white blood cells in the body can weaken the immune system and put a person at higher risk of getting an infection. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is a substance in liver cells that helps break down protein building blocks.

Alcohol intolerance

Alcohol intolerance is when a person's body does not deal with alcohol in the typical way. It is often caused by a mutation in a gene. This gene may be passed down in the family. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Alkaline phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase is a substance found in the body that helps with different important processes.

Allocation

Allocation is how people are placed into different groups during a study.

ALT elevation

ALT elevation is when the liver is damaged, which is indicated by higher levels of a protein called alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the blood.

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that causes issues with memory, thinking and behaviour. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

Anaemia megaloblastic

Anaemia megaloblastic is a health condition where there is not enough folic acid or vitamin B12. This leads to lacking enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body.

Anaesthetic (general)

General anaesthesia is a medicine that induces a deep sleep during surgery or medical procedures, resulting in no sensation of pain or awareness.

Anaesthetic (local)

Local anaesthesia is a medicine that numbs a specific area of the body, preventing the sensation of pain in that area.

Anaphylactic reaction

This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen seconds or minutes after being exposed to something the person is allergic to. Peanuts or bee stings are examples. In anaphylaxis, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals that can cause the body to go into shock.

Anaphylactoid reaction

This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen seconds or minutes after being exposed to something the person is allergic to. Peanuts or bee stings are examples. In anaphylaxis, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals that can cause the body to go into shock.

Anaphylactic shock

This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen seconds or minutes after being exposed to something the person is allergic to. Peanuts or bee stings are examples. In anaphylaxis, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals that can cause the body to go into shock.

Hypersensitivity

This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen seconds or minutes after being exposed to something the person is allergic to. Peanuts or bee stings are examples. In anaphylaxis, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals that can cause the body to go into shock.

Angina pectoris

Angina pectoris is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart doesn't get enough blood and oxygen. This can happen when the heart arteries become narrowed or blocked.

Angioedema

Angioedema is swelling that is similar to hives, but the swelling is under the skin instead of on the surface. Hives are often called welts.

Angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1)

Angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) is a natural substance in the body that helps make blood vessels strong and stable.

Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2)

Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) is a natural substance in the body that helps control blood vessels and plays a role in how they grow and develop.

Anti-VEGF

Anti-VEGF is a medicine that slows or stops the damage caused by the abnormal growth of blood vessels (e.g. in the eyes).

Anti-VEGF medicine

Anti-VEGF medicine is a medicine which slows the growth of new blood vessels by blocking VEGF. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: VEGF

Anti-VEGFR medicine

Anti-VEGFR medicine is a medicine that works by blocking the activity of VEGFR that promote the growth of new blood vessels. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: VEGFR

Anticoagulant

Anticoagulant is a medicine used to stop and treat blood clots in blood vessels and the heart.

Antiemetic

Antiemetic is a medicine that helps to prevent or alleviate the sensation of nausea and the urge to vomit.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when germs like bacteria and fungi become able to survive the medicines that are meant to kill them. It is a natural process, but it becomes more common when germs are exposed to antibiotics and antifungals.

Antivirals

Antiviral medicine is a special kind of medicine that helps the body fight off viruses, which are tiny germs that can make a person sick. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Aplastic anaemia

Aplastic anaemia is a rare and serious condition where the bone marrow does not produce enough red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which fight infections), and platelets (which help with blood clotting).

Apnoea

Apnoea is a health condition where a person stop breathing for a short time.

Arm (treatment arm)

Arm (treatment arm) is a group of participants (in a research study) who all receive the same study treatment.

Arrhythmia

Arrhythmia is a problem with the rhythm of the heartbeat. This means that the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or in an irregular way. When this happens, it can affect how the blood is pumped through the body.

Ascites

Ascites is when fluid collects in the belly, which causes swelling and discomfort. This can happen when someone has liver disease or other health conditions.

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is a substance in liver cells that helps break down protein building blocks.

AST elevations

AST elevations refer to higher than usual levels of the protein called aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the blood, which can indicate potential liver, heart, or kidney damage.

Ataxia

Ataxia is when a person is not being able to coordinate movements properly. People with ataxia have difficulty controlling the muscles in their arms and legs. This can make it hard to balance, coordinate their body, and walk properly.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is when blood vessels get clogged with plaque, which is made up of fat and other stuff. This can make it harder for the blood to flow properly and give the body what it needs.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis can cause a very itchy rash. Atopic dermatitis most often occurs where the skin flexes — inside the elbows, behind the knees and in front of the neck.

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a problem with the heart rhythm where the upper chambers of the heart beat fast and not regularly. This can increase the risk of stroke and other heart-related issues.

Atrial flutter

Atrial flutter is a health condition where the upper chambers of the heart beat too fast but usually with a regular rhythm. This can cause symptoms like palpitations (feeling your heart racing or fluttering) and shortness of breath.

Atrioventricular block

Atrioventricular block is a health condition where the electrical signals between the upper and lower chambers of the heart are delayed or blocked. This can slow down the heartbeat, disrupt the heart's rhythm and how it pumps blood.

Atypical pneumonia

Atypical pneumonia is a lung infection caused by unusual bacteria or other germs. It doesn't have as strong symptoms as different kinds of lung infections.

B-cell

B-cells are a special type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in keeping the body healthy. They are part of the immune system. When harmful germs, such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites, try to invade the body, B-cells produce powerful proteins called antibodies to protect the body. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system, antibodies

B-cell depletion

B-cell depletion is a type of therapy that helps people with certain diseases. The goal of this therapy is to remove harmful B cells in the body that can cause cancer or autoimmune diseases. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: B cells, autoimmune diseases

B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma

B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a blood cancer that affects a type of immune cell called B cells. It starts in lymphoid tissues and can spread to other organs. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune, B cells

Baseline assessment (in clinical trials)

Baseline assessment is information or data collected at the beginning of a study before any treatment is given.

Benign neoplasm of skin

Benign neoplasm of skin is a growth or abnormal area on the skin that does not spread to other parts of the body. The growth is not usually dangerous.

Best supportive care (BSC)

Best supportive care is the treatment given to manage the symptoms of a disease when a cure is not possible with existing therapy.

Best-available therapies (BAT)

Best-available therapies (BAT) is the treatment that makes the most sense and works best, backed by what science shows right now.

Biological therapy

Biological therapy is a medicine made by living organisms grown in a laboratory e.g. vaccines, blood components and living cells used in cell therapy.

Biomarker

A biomarker is a measurable indicator or sign that can be found in blood, tissue, or bodily fluids. Biomarkers are often used to help choose the best treatment for patients. These biomarkers can be proteins, hormones, genes, or gene mutations. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormones, genes, gene mutations

Biomarker testing

Biomarker testing is a special kind of test that helps doctors find the most effective medicines for treating different types of cancer. During this test, the doctor takes a small sample of the cancer from the blood, bodily fluids, or tissue taken during surgery or biopsy. By analysing this sample, the test results can give the doctor important information to choose the best treatment options for the specific type of cancer a person has.

Bivalent vaccine

Bivalent vaccine is a medicine that helps the body's defence system fight off two different foreign substances, such as two distinct types of viruses. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is y type of cancer characterised by the development of abnormal cells in the lining of the bladder.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is redness or swelling of the eyelids, usually along the eyelashes.

Blepharospasm

Blepharospasm is a health issue where blinking or twitching of the eyelids happens with no person's control.

Blind/Blinding

Blinding is a way in which the people involved in a study do not know which study drug or treatment has been given.

Blood bilirubin

Blood bilirubin is a substance that forms when red blood cells break down.

Blood draw

A blood draw, also known as a blood sample or blood collection, is the process of taking a small amount of blood from a person, usually from a vein in the arm.

Blood pressure

Blood pressure is how hard the blood pushes against the walls of arteries as it flows through them.

Bone marrow failure

Bone marrow failure is a condition where the bone marrow, which makes red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which fight infections), and platelets (which help with blood clotting) is not producing enough blood cells or is producing them in an unhealthy way.

Bradycardia

Bradycardia is when the heart beats slower than usual, typically less than 60 beats per minute.

Bradypnoea

Bradypnoea is a health condition where a person has a slow breathing rate. It can make the person breathe in an unusual and slow way. It depends on a person's age.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is a health condition where cancer cells form in the breast.

Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a health condition where airways get damaged. This makes them wider and scarred. It makes it hard to clear mucus out of the lungs and can cause frequent infections. Coughing a lot with pus and mucus is the main symptom of bronchiectasis.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a health condition where the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs are inflamed. When a person has bronchitis, it may be harder for air to pass in and out of the lungs.

Bronchospasm

Bronchospasm is a health condition where the muscles of tubes that take air into and out of the lungs get tight. This contraction makes it difficult to breathe and less air reaches the lung. It can even cause wheezing or coughing.

Bundle branch block

Bundle branch block is a health condition in which there's a delay or blockage along the path that electrical impulses travel to make the heart beat. It sometimes makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.

Cachexia

Cachexia is when a person involuntarily loses a lot of weight, muscle, and fat. It often happens to people in the late stages of a serious disease.

Cannula

Cannula is a thin, flexible tube that is used to put fluids into or remove fluids from the body.

Cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating, and blood flow to the body's organs is interrupted.

Cardiac failure

Cardiac failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood as well as it should. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and feet.

Cardiac failure congestive

Cardiac failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood as well as it should. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and feet.

Congestive heart failure

Cardiac failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood as well as it should. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and feet.

Cardiac flutter

Cardiac flutter is a health condition where the upper chambers of the heart beat too fast but usually with a regular rhythm. This can cause symptoms like palpitations (feeling your heart racing or fluttering) and shortness of breath.

Cardiac infarction

Cardiac infarction occurs when the blood supply to the heart is severely reduced or blocked, usually due to a blood clot.

Cardiogenic shock

Cardiogenic shock is a very serious health condition that occurs when the heart suddenly becomes unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. It often happens as a result of a severe heart attack.

Cardiomegaly

Cardiomegaly is when the heart becomes bigger than it should be. This enlargement typically occurs when the heart has to work harder than usual due to certain health issues.

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a heart muscle condition that affects its size, shape, or thickness. As a result of this disease, the heart cannot efficiently pump blood to the rest of the body.

Cardiovascular disorder

Cardiovascular disorder is a group of health conditions that affect both the heart and the blood vessels that carry blood throughout the body. These issues can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health conditions.

Catarrh

Catarrh is a health condition with inflammation of the mucous tissue in the head and chest. It leads to a build-up of thick mucus in the nose, throat, or chest.

Catheter

Catheter is a tube for putting fluids into the body, or helping them flow out of the body.

Cavernous sinus thrombosis

Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a health condition where a blood clot forms in the veins of the brain. This blocks the usual flow of blood and causes severe swelling.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is an infection of the deeper layers of the skin and the tissues under the skin. It's not just on the surface, but goes deeper into the body.

Central retinal vein occlusion

Central retinal vein occlusion is an eye health issue where the main blood vessel at the back of the eye becomes blocked.

Central subfield thickness (CST)

Central subfield thickness (CST) is a measurement used to check the health of a central part of the eye called the fovea.

Cerebral infarction

Cerebral infarction is a stroke, which happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly cut off.

Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by brain damage that affects a person's ability to control their muscles.

Cerebrovascular accident

Cerebrovascular accident is a stroke, which happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly cut off.

Cerebrovascular disorder

Cerebrovascular disorder is a health condition that affects the brain and the blood vessels that supply it.

Change from baseline in ETDRS letters

Change from the baseline ETDRS score looks at how much better or worse the eyesight is by looking at it before and after treatment. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: ETDRS

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat that is present in the body and is also found in certain foods.

Chorea

Chorea is a condition that causes sudden, uncontrollable movements of the eyes, head, neck, and limbs.

Choreoathetosis

Choreoathetosis is a condition that causes sudden, uncontrollable movements of the eyes, head, arms, legs, and chest.

Choroidal and retinal vascular diseases

Choroidal and retinal vascular diseases are diseases that affect blood vessels deep in the eyeball.

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV)

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is when the blood vessels behind the white part of the eye grow in an uncontrolled way. This unusual growth can lead to problems with vision, primarily due to leakage and accumulation of fluid.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is a health condition where the kidneys are damaged. They cannot filter blood as well as they should. Because of this, fluid and waste products from the blood stay in the body.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease caused by inflammation in the lungs that causes breathing problems and damage to the lungs, and gets worse over time. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: Chronic, obstructive, pulmonary

Clinical benefit

Clinical benefit is when treatment has a good effect or provides an advantage.

Clinical outcome assessment

Clinical outcome assessment is a way to measure of how a person feels and how well they are doing compared to when they first started the study.

Clinical remission

Clinical remission is a period of time when a health condition is not causing any problems. It means that the signs and symptoms of the health condition, like cancer or other illnesses, have gone away.

Clinical research

Clinical research is a way to find out how safe and how well new treatment work in people.

Coagulopathy

Coagulopathy is an issue with the body's ability to form blood clots, making a person more prone to bleeding without a visible cause, bruising easily, and bleeding for a longer time after an injury.

Colour blindness

Colour blindness is an issue that causes a person to not see some colours or see colours in a different way.

Comparison of Age-related Macular Degeneration Treatments Trials (CATT)

Comparison of Age-related Macular Degeneration Treatments Trials (CATT) is a special study done to figure out which treatment is best to stop vision loss.

Computerised Tomography (CT)

Computerized Tomography (CT) is a special kind of test that uses a machine to take pictures of the inside of a person's body using a type of radiation.

Control group

Control group is a group of people in a study who do not receive the study treatment or do not have the disease are included to compare the effect of the study treatment.

Corneal degeneration

Corneal degeneration is a disorder of the clear part at the front of the eye that gets worse with time.

Corneal disorder

Corneal disorder is a medical issue of the clear outer layer at the front of the eye.

Coronary artery disease

Coronary artery disease is caused by the build-up of cholesterol in the blood vessels, called plaque, which causes the inside of the vessels to narrow. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: Coronary artery

Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone made by two small organs in the body called adrenal glands, which are located on top of each kidney. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: adrenal glands

Creatine phosphokinase

Creatine phosphokinase (CPK), also known as creatine kinase, is a protein found in different parts of the body, like the heart and muscles. It helps provide energy for muscle movement.

Creatinine

Creatinine is a waste product that is produced by muscles during usual activity.

Cross-over study

A cross-over study is a type of study where one group receives one treatment while the other group receives a different treatment. After a certain period of time, the two groups will switch treatments.

Cross-sectional study

A cross-sectional study is a study where study doctors examine the effect of a specific medicine or disease in a large group of people at a single point in time.

Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is a health condition where there is too much cortisol in the body. This can be caused by taking medicines known as steroids for a long time. It can lead to a rounded (moon-shaped) face and other health conditions. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: cortisol, steroids

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE)

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is lupus affecting the skin. In this autoimmune disease, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: autoimmune disease, immune system

Cyanosis

Cyanosis is a condition where skin, lips, or nails turn blue. It can be caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood.

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS)

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) happens when the immune system reacts in an unusual way to an infection or cancer immunotherapy. During this reaction, substances called cytokines are released into the body. This can cause a variety of symptoms, such as a fever, nausea, headache, and rash. The person can also have a fast heartbeat, low blood pressure, and trouble breathing. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system, immunotherapy, cytokines

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a very common virus that can infect people of all ages. It spreads through contact with body fluids like saliva or blood. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Cytomegalovirus infection

Cytomegalovirus infection is a disease caused by a virus called cytomegalovirus. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus, cytomegalovirus

Data

Data is information collected from or about people taking part in a research study e.g. age, questionnaire responses, blood test results, imaging scans.

De novo purine synthesis inhibitors associated acute inflammatory syndrome

De novo purine synthesis inhibitors associated acute inflammatory syndrome is a strong response inside the body associated with the use of medicines called de novo purine synthesis inhibitors. These medicines stop the body from creating certain materials called purines. It is not very common but can make a person feel sick. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: inhibitors

Dementia

Dementia is not a specific disease. It's an overall term that describes a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities.

Dermatitis exfoliative

Exfoliative dermatitis is a severe inflammation of the entire skin surface. This causes skin to flake or peel off in scales or layers.

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH)

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a chronic, intensely itchy, blistering skin due to a person being sensitive to gluten.

Diabetes insipidus

Diabetes insipidus is a health condition where the body produces too much urine and is not able to keep water in the body. This is caused by a problem with a material called antidiuretic hormone. Either the body does not make enough of this material or the kidneys do not use it properly. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a group of health conditions that cause a person's blood sugar to become too high. This happens when the body does not make enough insulin or does not respond to insulin the way it should. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: insulin

Diabetic ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a health condition that can happen in people with diabetes. It happens when the body does not have enough insulin to use sugar for energy. Instead, the body breaks down fat for energy. This causes the body to release substances called ketones. Too many ketones cause the blood to turn acidic. Diabetic ketoacidosis can be a life-threatening condition. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: diabetes, insulin

Diabetic macular oedema (DME)

Diabetic macular oedema (DME) is a condition where high blood sugar levels from diabetes cause fluid to leak into the central area at the back of the eye. This can cause blurry vision.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR)

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a condition where high blood sugar levels from diabetes damage the back of the eye. This can cause blindness if not treated.

Dialysis

Dialysis is a treatment that does the work of the kidneys when they can't. A machine outside of the person's body is used to clean the person's blood.

Disease free survival

The time between no signs of the disease on scans or tests after treatment and the signs that it has come back.

Dominant

Every person gets two sets of genes, one from each parent. Genes can be either dominant or recessive. A dominant gene affects a certain trait even if it comes from just one parent. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene, recessive

Dopamine dysregulation syndrome

Dopamine dysregulation syndrome is a condition, when a person feels a strong desire to take more dopamine medicines. This can happen to people who have been taking dopamine medicines for a long time to treat a medical condition.

Dose escalation

Dose escalation is when the strength of a treatment is increased one step at a time to make the best use of its benefits.

Double-blind study

Double-blind study is a study where nobody knows which treatment is being given – not the people in the study or the team running it. This is done to make sure that the results of the treatment are not affected by what people expected from the received treatment. After the study is finished, the people in the study can ask to find out which treatment they got.

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms

Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) is a health issue that can occur as a reaction to certain medicines. It causes a rash on the skin and an increase in a type of white blood cells called eosinophils.

Dry Age Related Macular Disease (nAMD)

Dry age-related macular degeneration is a condition where the central area at the back of the eye gets thinner with age. This causes the vision in the centre of the eye to become blurry. Note: see also definition of Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD)

Dyspnoea

Dyspnoea is a health condition where a person experiences difficulty breathing and finds it hard to catch their breath.

Dyspnoea exertional

Dyspnoea exertional is difficulty breathing during an activity like running or playing sports, which typically doesn't cause such difficulties.

Dystonia

Dystonia is a condition where muscles contract uncontrollably, causing pain and unusual postures.

Early breast cancer

Early breast cancer is a cancer that forms in the cells of the breast but has not spread to other body parts.

Early Phase

Early phase is the first step in testing new medicines that have been made in the lab.

Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS)

The Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) measures changes in vision in people with diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Ecchymosis

Ecchymosis is a health issue where skin (for example around eye) is discoloured by damaged blood vessels under the skin. This is also called bruising.

Ectropion

Ectropion is an eye condition causing the eyelid to sag or turn outwards.

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that can make skin very dry, itchy, and can cause rashes, scaly patches, and even blisters.

Eczema infected

Eczema infected is when a person with eczema gets their skin infected with bacteria, viruses, or fungi, that can make the eczema worse. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: eczema, virus

Electrolytes

Electrolytes are materials that have an electrical charge when they dissolve in fluids like blood or urine. Examples of electrolytes are sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Electrolytes are important for balancing fluids in the body, controlling the heart rhythm, and helping the nerves and muscles work properly.

Eligibility criteria

The reasons based on which a person can be included or excluded from a study. It is to make sure that a study includes only people helping answer the study questions. For example, a study may be looking to include only people of a certain age or with a certain disease.

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is a bacterial infection that affects the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valves. This can result in symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and problems with the heart's functioning.

Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lining of the uterus, which is called the endometrium. The uterus is where a baby grows during pregnancy.

Endpoint

Endpoints are factors and measures researchers use to see the effect of the study treatment.

Enrolment

Enrolment is the process of joining a study as a participant.

Eosinophilia

Eosinophilia is a condition where the body has too many eosinophils, which are a type of white blood cell that help fight off infections and address certain allergic reactions.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures, which can lead to periods of shaking or loss of consciousness.

ER-positive breast cancer

ER-positive breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that is influenced by oestrogen hormones. In the cells of this cancer, there are proteins called oestrogen receptors (ER) that interact with the hormone oestrogen. When oestrogen binds to these receptors, it can signal the cancer cells to grow. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone

Erythema multiform

Erythema multiform is a skin disorder that's considered to be an allergic reaction to medicine or an infection. Symptoms are symmetrical, red, raised skin areas that can appear all over the body.

Erythema nodosum

Erythema nodosum is a health issue causing painful red bumps or nodules that are often found symmetrically on the shins.

European Medicines Agency (EMA)

European Medicines Agency (EMA) is the organisation that handles scientific and safety control of medicines in the Europe Union.

Exclusion criteria

Exclusion criteria are specific reasons or conditions that prevent a person from being included in a study.

Exon

Exon and intron are parts of a gene. The exon part contains information for making proteins, while the intron part does not.

Extrasystoles

Extrasystoles are additional heartbeats that occur outside the usual heart rhythm.

Factor VIII

Factor 8 is a crucial protein in the blood that helps it to clot. Haemophilia A happens when a person does not have enough factor 8, which means their blood doesn't clot properly.

Factor IX

Factor 9 is a crucial protein in the blood that helps it to clot. Haemophilia B happens when a person does not have enough factor 9, which means their blood doesn't clot properly.

Febrile neutropenia

Febrile neutropenia is a complication that can happen when a person with a weakened immune system develops a fever, often as a result of a treatment. Febrile neutropenia occurs when neutrophil levels drop significantly, impacting the body's ability to fight off germs. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: neutrophil

Fistula

Fistula is a connection or passageway that forms between two different parts of the body and is not usual. It can develop when tissues or organs that are not supposed to be connected somehow create a tunnel or channel between them.

Fluorescein angiogram

Fluorescein angiogram is a medical test where a special dye is used to take pictures of the blood vessels in the eye. It is a way to diagnose and monitor eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the organisation that handles scientific and safety control of food, medicines and medical devices in the USA.

Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT)

Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) is a protein in the body. Higher than expected levels of GGT in the blood can indicate liver or bile duct damage.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is when the stomach and intestines get inflamed or infected. This causes symptoms like stomach ache, diarrhoea, and vomiting.

General anaesthetic

General anaesthetic is a combination of medicines that brings on a sleep-like state. A person in this deep sleep will not feel pain. They will also not remember what happened during while they were sleeping.

Genetic testing

Genetic testing is the process of analysing cells or tissue to look for changes in genes that may be a sign of a disease or condition, such as cancer. These changes may also be a sign that a person has an increased risk of developing a specific disease or condition. Genetic testing may be done on tumour tissue to help diagnose cancer, plan treatment, or find out how well treatment is working. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Genome testing

Genetic testing is the process of analysing cells or tissue to look for changes in genes that may be a sign of a disease or condition, such as cancer. These changes may also be a sign that a person has an increased risk of developing a specific disease or condition. Genetic testing may be done on tumour tissue to help diagnose cancer, plan treatment, or find out how well treatment is working. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Genome variations

People or groups have genes that vary. Some of these differences can cause problems for the body. For example, a mutation that causes a health condition. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Geographic atrophy (GA)

Geographic atrophy (GA) is the late stage of a health condition called dry age-related macular degeneration. In this health condition the central area at the back of the eye gets thinner with age. This causes the vision in the centre of the eye to become blurry. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: age-related macular degeneration

Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is a type of tumour that grows in the supportive tissue of the brain and spinal cord. It looks different from regular cells and grows very fast.

Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is inflammation and damage to the filtering part of the kidneys (glomerulus).

Glucocorticoids

Glucocorticoids are medicine that reduces swelling and the immune system’s activities.

Glucose tolerance impaired

Glucose tolerance impaired is when there is a high level of sugar in the blood but it is not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. People with impaired glucose tolerance are at risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: diabetes

Goitre

Goitre is a health condition where a part of the body, called thyroid gland grows larger than the usual size. This can cause a swelling at the front of the neck. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: thyroid gland

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis. It happens when a material called uric acid builds up in the body. This causes a person's joints to become swollen and sore.

Granulocytopenia

Granulocytopenia is a condition where the body doesn't have enough granulocytes (a type of white blood cell). This makes the body less able to protect itself from bacteria and other germs.

Guillain-Barré syndrome

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a condition that causes the nerves to swell, leading to pain, weakness, and sometimes paralysis in the arms and legs. It can also affect the face and chest.

Haemodynamically significant cardiac disease

Haemodynamically significant cardiac disease is a heart condition that is considered severe enough to significantly affect how well blood is pumped around the body.

Haemolysis

Haemolysis is a process in the body where red blood cells (that carry oxygen to the body) get damaged and break apart. When red blood cells break down, they release their contents into the bloodstream, which can sometimes cause health issues.

Haemolytic anaemia

Haemolytic anaemia is a type of anaemia where the body doesn't have enough red blood cells because they break down too quickly. When red blood cells break down too fast, it can lead to symptoms like fatigue, paleness, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and sometimes an enlarged spleen. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: anaemia

Haemophilia

Haemophilia is a health condition where the blood does not clot as it should. People with haemophilia don't have enough of a select protein, such as factor 8 (in the case of haemophilia A) or factor 9 (in the case of haemophilia B). This makes them bleed for a longer time after they get a cut or injury. People with haemophilia also experience spontaneous bleeding in joints or muscles, which can be painful and destructive. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: factor 8, factor 9

Haemophilia A

Haemophilia A is a health condition where the blood doesn't clot as it should. People with haemophilia A don't have enough of a select protein, called factor 8. This makes them bleed for a longer time after they get a cut or injury. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: factor 8

Heart rate irregular

Heart rate irregular is when the heart is beating at a rhythm that is different from what is considered usual for that individual.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. Some people with hepatitis B are sick for only a few weeks (known as “acute” infection), but for others, the disease progresses to a serious, lifelong illness known as chronic hepatitis B. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hepatitis B virus, acute

Hepatitis B virus

The hepatitis B virus is a virus that causes the liver to swell up and become inflamed. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

HER2+ HER2-positive

´HER2-positive’ or ‘HER2+’ means that cancer cells have more HER2 than normal, they are called ‘HER2-positive’ or ‘HER2+’. Checking the amount of HER2 on some types of cancer cells may help to plan treatment. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: HER2

Herpes simplex

Herpes simplex is a virus that causes sores, usually around the mouth or genital area. It is like a little, painful blister that can come back from time to time. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Herpes zoster

Herpes zoster is an infection caused by a zoster virus that results in a painful rash with blisters, often on one side of the body. It is also called shingles. It usually happens to older people who had chickenpox when they were younger. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Hormone

Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by various glands in the body. They circulate in the bloodstream and help regulate and coordinate different bodily functions.

Hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer

Hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the breast. It is made up of cells that have hormone receptors but not HER2. These cells grow quickly because of the hormones. Some of these hormone are oestrogen and progesterone.

Huntington's Disease

Huntington's Disease is a genetic disease caused by a harmful version of the Huntingtin gene that leads to progressive damage of nerve cells in the brain. This affects a person's ability to think, talk and move

Hypertensive encephalopathy

Hypertensive encephalopathy is a health condition where high blood pressure leads to problems in the brain and causes symptoms like headaches and jerky body movements.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a health condition where the thyroid gland is too active. It makes too much of a material, called thyroid hormone. It can cause weight loss, mood swings, and tiredness. It can also lead to sleeping troubles, shaky hands, and a fast heartbeat. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: thyroid gland, hormone

Hypertonia

Hypertonia is a condition where a person is having high muscle tone. It means that the muscles in the body are tighter or stiffer than usual.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a health condition where a part of the body, called thyroid gland is not active enough. It makes less thyroid hormone than needed. It can cause weight gain, low moods, and tiredness. It can also lead to a puffy face, joint pain, and other symptoms. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: thyroid gland, hormone

Hypotonia

Hypotonia is a condition where a person is having low muscle tone. It means that the muscles in the body are looser and more relaxed than usual.

Immune thrombocytopenia

Immune thrombocytopenia is a condition where the immune system attacks and destroys it's own platelets. This can lead to excessive bleeding or bruising even when a person gets minor bumps or cuts. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system, platelets

Immune-mediated glomerular disease

Immune-mediated glomerular diseases, also known as glomerulonephropathies or GN, are a group of different disorders that can affect the kidneys.

Immune-mediated kidney disease

Immune-mediated kidney disease, specifically lupus nephritis, happens when the immune system, which normally protects the body, mistakenly attacks kidneys. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Immunoglobulin G (IgG)

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is a type of antibody that is present in the blood and plays a crucial role in the immune system. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language:

Immunoglobulin M (IgM)

Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is a type of antibody that is found in the blood. It is one of the first antibodies produced by the immune system in response to an infection or foreign substance. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: antibody

Immunoglobulins

Immunoglobulins are also called antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that the immune system makes to fight germs, such as viruses and bacteria. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: antibodies, immune system, virus

Inclusion criteria

Inclusion criteria is a list of requirements a person must meet to take part in the study.

Informed consent

It is a process to help people understand what will happen if they become a participant of the study. They discuss the details of the study and their rights with their doctor before making a decision to take part.

Informed consent form (ICF)

Informed consent form (ICF) is a document helps to explain the details of the study. This includes information about possible effects and other options of treatment.

Consent form

Informed consent form (ICF) is a document helps to explain the details of the study. This includes information about possible effects and other options of treatment.

Inhibitor

Inhibitor is a type of medicine that slows down certain conditions or stops them getting worse. Inhibitors work by blocking or reducing the activity of specific proteins, or other molecules that are involved in the disease process.

Institutional review board (IRB)

Institutional review board (IRB) is a team of people who review studies to make sure the rights and welfare of study participants are protected. A research study must be approved by an IRB before it starts.

Interstitial lung disease

Interstitial lung disease is a lung condition where the lungs are scarred. The scar tissue in the lungs affects the function of the lungs and oxygen exchange. It can make it harder to breathe in the usual way.

Intervention

Intervention is a treatment can include ways to change behaviour, attitudes, and maintain or improve overall health.

Interventional study

Interventional study is a study where participants get something new to find out how well it works.

Intron

Exon and intron are parts of a gene. The exon part contains information for making proteins, while the intron part does not.

Investigational product

An investigational product refers to a medicine, device, vaccine, or other treatment that is being tested in a study, but it has not yet been approved for the specific use being studied.

Investigator

Investigator is the doctor or nurse working in the study.

Ischaemic retinal vein occlusion (Ischaemic RVO)

Ischaemic retinal vein occlusion (Ischaemic RVO) is a more serious form of RVO where there is inadequate blood supply to the retina, with substantial damage. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: retinal vein occlusion, RVO, retina

Ischaemic stroke

Ischaemic stroke is a type of stroke that occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked, depriving the brain of oxygen and nutrients.

Jarisch-herxheimer reaction

Jarisch-herxheimer reaction is a short-term health condition that can happen to people who are treated with medicine for certain bacteria. These bacteria are called spirochetes and can cause diseases like syphilis and Lyme disease. The reaction occurs because the medicine kills the bacteria suddenly, which can make the body become inflamed.

Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition where the skin and the white part of the eyes turn yellow because of a build-up of bilirubin in the body. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: bilirubin

Kaposi’s sarcoma

Kaposi’s sarcoma is a type of cancer affecting the skin. It causes pain and purple or red spots on the skin. It can also affect the mouth, stomach, and intestines.

Keratoacanthoma

Keratoacanthoma is a type of skin cancer that causes a small, painless bump on the face or head. The bump is usually filled with a material called keratin. The bump grows quickly but goes away by itself. It often leaves a scar.

Kernicterus

Kernicterus is a condition in new-borns when their bodies have too much of a substance called bilirubin in the blood, leading to yellowing of the skin and eyes and potential brain damage.

Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis is a health condition caused by not eating enough for a long time or from untreated diabetes. Under these conditions, the body uses fat and protein to make energy which results in the production of too much ketones. This can lead to symptoms like pain in the belly, rapid breathing, vomiting, and weakness.

Lacrimation disorder

Lacrimation disorder is a medical issue with tears.

Lactate dehydrogenase

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a protein found in various tissues of the body, including the heart, liver, muscles, and red blood cells. LDH plays a crucial role in the conversion of glucose into energy. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: glucose

Lactic acidosis

Lactic acidosis is a health condition where a material called lactate builds up in the blood. It can increase faster than it can be removed.

Large B-cell lymphoma

Large B-cell lymphoma is the most common type of lymphoma. It affects a type of immune cell called B cells. It often starts in lymphoid tissues and can spread to other organs. The cancer cells look bigger than other cancers when seen under a microscope.

Laryngitis

Laryngitis is when a person's voice box is inflamed. It feels swollen and sore.

Laryngospasm

Laryngospasm is a health condition with short-term cramping or spasms in the vocal cords. It makes it difficult to speak or breathe.

Legal representative

A legal representative is someone who has the power to make important decisions for another person. This could be decisions about their health or insurance.

Leucocytosis

Leucocytosis is when a person has too many white blood cells in their body, often because their body is fighting an infection.

Leukopenia

Leukopenia is a condition where the body has fewer white blood cells than it should because of a weak immune system. This can increase a person's risk of getting sick.

Lip swelling

Lip swelling is when the lips become bigger than usual, often as a result of an allergic reaction or injury.

Lipase

Lipase is a type of protein that breaks down fat.

Lipoma

Lipoma is a fatty lump usually found between the skin and the muscles. It is a tumour that grows slowly.

Liquid biopsy

Liquid biopsy is a special test that doctors use to check for cancer cells or signs of cancer in a person's body. They collect a small amount of fluid from the body. This fluid can be blood, pee, or other body fluids.

Liver

The liver is an organ that helps digest food, store energy and remove poisons from the body.

Liver function test

Liver function test is a blood test that look at how the liver is working.

Localised resectable melanoma

Localised resectable melanoma is a type of melanoma that spreads only to nearby lymph nodes and can be removed with surgery.

Locally advanced lung cancer

Locally advanced lung cancer is when cancer in the lungs starts to spread to nearby tissue. It often affects lymph nodes in the chest first.

Lower respiratory tract infection

Lower respiratory tract infection is an infection that affects the airways below the level of the voice box. It is caused when the body cannot clear germs from the lower airway and lungs.

Lung infiltration

Lung infiltration is a build-up of materials such as fluid or unusual lung cells. These materials can also be pus, blood, or protein. They can be seen on a chest radiograph.

Lupus-like syndrome

Lupus-like syndrome is a condition in which the body behaves similarly to lupus, an autoimmune disease. In this syndrome caused by certain prescription medicines, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs, leading to various symptoms. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: autoimmune disease, immune system

Lymph node pain

Lymph node pain is a condition where the lymph nodes are sore or feel achy because they are working harder than usual to battle an infection. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: lymph nodes

Lymphocele

Lymphocele is a small pocket of clear fluid that can form in the body, usually after surgery or an injury near the lymph nodes. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: lymph nodes

Lymphoproliferative disorder

Lymphoproliferative disorder is a group of health conditions where the body produces too many lymphocytes. This can cause the immune system to become imbalanced and may lead to health problems. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: lymphocytes, immune system

Macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is a condition where the central area at the back of the eye becomes damaged. This can cause the central vision to become blurry.

Macular neovascularisation (MNV)

Macular neovascularisation (MNV) is a condition where new blood vessels grow in the central area at the back of the eye. This can cause central vision loss.

Maculopathy

Maculopathy is any medical issue or disease affecting the central area at the back of the eye.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a test used to take pictures of bones, tissues, or organs (like the brain, heart or lungs).

Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan (MRI scan)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan (MRI scan) is a detailed picture of the inside of the body taken with a special machine.

Malignant neoplasm progression

Malignant neoplasm progression is a type of cancer. It occurs when cells in the body start growing too quickly and multiplying excessively. This can cause the cancer to become more severe and spread to different parts of the body.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is when a person does not eat enough food. It also occurs when a person doesn't eat the right foods or the body uses the food poorly.

Mantle cell lymphoma (MSL)

Mantle cell lymphoma (MSL) is a rare type of cancer that affects a type of immune cell called B cells. These special cells usually help the body fight off infections, but in MCL, they become abnormal. Instead of fighting infections, these abnormal cells start to collect in the lymph nodes and spleen, causing them to become swollen. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune, B cells

Melanoma

Melanoma is a very serious type of skin cancer. It occurs when the cells responsible for giving colour to our skin start to grow in a harmful and uncontrollable way.

Mental disorder

Mental disorder is a condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, behaves, or their mood.

Metabolic acidosis

Metabolic acidosis is when too much acid is produced in the body. It can be caused by diabetes or not drinking enough water. It can also be due to the loss of a material called bicarbonate in the body or kidneys. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: diabetes

Migraine

Migraine is a severe headache often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. It can also cause visual disturbances.

Monoclonal antibody

Monoclonal antibodies are a type of antibody are created in a laboratory instead of being produced naturally by the body.

Multicentre trial

Multicentre study is a study that takes place at more than one research centre.

Multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. In multiple myeloma, these plasma cells become cancerous and multiply rapidly, crowding out healthy cells in the bone marrow.

Mutation

Mutation is a change in a gene that can be sudden or passed on from parents so that the gene is different from what is found in healthy cells. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Myasthenia gravis

Myasthenia gravis is a rare, chronic, autoimmune condition where the own body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the connection between the nerves and the muscles. As a result, muscles don't respond to the nerve signals and get weaker with activity.

Myasthenic syndrome

Myasthenic syndrome is a condition that makes muscles weak and tired. This caused by a defect at the junction where nerves stimulate muscle activity (so-called neuromuscular junction).

Myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction occurs when the blood supply to a part of the heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked, usually due to a blood clot.

Myocardial ischaemia

Myocardial ischaemia occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. This reduces the heart's ability to pump blood and can cause serious unusual heart rhythms.

Myopia

Myopia is a vision condition where close-up objects look clear but distant objects look blurry. Also called nearsightedness or short-sightedness.

Nebuliser

A nebuliser is a device that delivers medicine for asthma and other respiratory conditions in the form of a mist.

Necrotising fasciitis

Necrotising fasciitis is a health condition due to infection by bacteria. It affects the skin and tissues just beneath the skin. It is a very serious condition as the infection spreads fast.

Neoadjuvant therapy

Neoadjuvant therapy is a special kind of treatment that is given before surgery or another main treatment. The aim is to shrink the cancer and help the main treatment work better.

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD)

Neovascular (or wet) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a medical condition where unhealthy blood vessels grow in the central area at the back of the eye. These vessels cause swelling and bleeding at the back of the eye. This can lead to vision loss. There are two types called wet and dry. The wet type gets worse more quickly than the dry type.

Neuroendocrine system

Neuroendocrine system is a complex network of glands and nerve cells in the body that work together to regulate and coordinate various processes.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a serious reaction caused by medicines used to treat neurological conditions. It causes fever, muscle stiffness, rapid breathing, sweating, confusion, and loss of conscious.

Neutropenic infection

Neutropenic infection is an infection that happens when the body doesn't have enough neutrophils to fight off germs. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: neutrophils

Neutropenic sepsis

Neutropenic sepsis is a serious health condition that occurs in people with low levels of neutrophils. It causes a fever and other signs of infection. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: neutrophils

Next-generation type 2 anti-CD20 antibody

Anti-CD20 antibody is a protein that can attach to another molecule called CD20 on the outside of certain cells in the body. This causes the cell to break down and die. Next-generation means that this product is based on the latest technology and is replacing an already existing product.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. This includes a diverse group of lymphomas with different characteristics and behaviours. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: lymphatic system, immune system

Non-inferiority trial

Non-inferiority trial is a study to test if a study treatment works as well as the standard approved treatment. These studies are done to find more treatment options that work as well as ones that are already approved for a disease.

Non-ischaemic retinal vein occlusion (Non-ischaemic RVO)

Non-ischaemic retinal vein occlusion (Non-ischaemic RVO) is a less serious form of RVO where there remains adequate blood supply to the retina, associated with better outcomes. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: retinal vein occlusion, RVO, retina

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. NSCLC usually develops in the tissues lining the lungs and can spread to nearby lymph nodes and other organs.

Oestrogen receptor

Oestrogen receptors are like little proteins found on certain cells in the female reproductive tissue, as well as some other types of tissue and cancer cells. These receptors can be like little "locks" that the oestrogen receptors can "unlock" and cause the cells to grow

Observational study

Observational study is a study looking at the effects of medicines in people taking those medicines in real life.

Oedema

Oedema is a build-up of fluid in the body which causes the affected tissue to become swollen. This is often because of illness or injury.

Open label extension study

Open label extension study is the part of the study after the main study is over. Participants continue to receive treatment. Both the doctors and the participant know which treatment they are getting.

Open label study

An open-label study means everyone involved, including the participant and the study doctor, know which study treatment the participant is given.

Optic neuritis

Optic neuritis is a condition where the optic nerve becomes swollen or inflamed. This can cause problems with vision and make eyes hurt. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: optic nerve

Optic neuropathy

Optic neuropathy is a condition where the optic nerve becomes damaged in some way. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: optic nerve

Optical coherence tomography (OCT)

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a safe and painless imaging test that takes pictures of the back of the eye.

Optical coherence tomography scan (OCT scan)

Optical coherence tomography scan (OCT scan) looks under the surface of the eyes to check for eye problems.

Oral herpes

Oral herpes, also known as a cold sore, is a small, painful red swelling on the lip or around the mouth. It is caused by herpes simplex virus 1 or HSV-1. This virus is easily passed from person to person. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: virus

Oropharyngeal swelling

Oropharyngeal swelling is swelling in the back of the throat and mouth. This can make it hard to swallow or breathe.

Orthopnoea

Orthopnoea is when someone has trouble breathing when lying flat, but they feel better when they sit up or stand.

Osteomalacia

Osteomalacia is a health condition that causes bones to get soft and weak. It mostly happens due to a problem with vitamin D, which helps the body take up calcium. It affects adults.

Otitis externa

Otitis externa is when the outer ear gets infected and becomes inflamed. This makes the area between the eardrum and the outer ear turn red and swell up. It's usually because of an infection.

Otitis media

Otitis media is when the middle ear gets infected and becomes inflamed. This makes the area between the eardrum and the inner ear turn red and swell up. It's usually because of an infection.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures are measurements used in the study to determine the impact or effect of a treatment on the participants involved.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. It happens when cells in the ovaries grow out of control and form tumour.

Palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesia syndrome

Palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesia syndrome is a condition that causes a burning sensation in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

Papilloedema

Papilloedema is swelling where the optic nerve enters the back of the eye. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: optic nerve

Paranoia

Paranoia is a state where a person has unfounded or exaggerated distrust of others.

Parathyroid hormone (PTH)

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a hormone produced by the parathyroid glands, which are small glands located near the thyroid gland in the neck. PTH plays a vital role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: hormone

Parkinsonism

Parkinsonism is a condition with symptoms such as slowed movements, stiffness, and tremors. The most common parkinsonism is Parkinson's Disease.

Paronychia

Paronychia is a skin infection that occurs around the nails. The skin around the nails gets reddish, swollen, and sore.

Parosmia

Parosmia is a condition where a person experiences changes in their sense of smell, often perceiving pleasant smells as unpleasant.

Parotitis

Parotitis is a health condition where the parotid glands are inflamed. These glands are found in front of the ear and make saliva.

Pemphigoid

Pemphigoid is a rare skin disease that causes painful blisters and sores on areas of skin that often flex, such as the lower abdomen, upper thighs or armpits.

Pemphigus

Pemphigus is a rare skin disease that causes painful blisters and sores on the skin, inside the mouth or on the genitals.

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, which is the sac that contains the heart. When the pericardium becomes inflamed, it can cause chest pain, which is often sharp and worsens with deep breathing or lying down.

Peripheral swelling

Peripheral swelling is a health condition where some body parts have too much fluid in the tissues. When it happens, it can make the hands or legs feel swollen.

Phase

Phase is a step in the clinical research process to see how safe and how well a new device, or treatment works.

Phase 1

Phase 1 is an important step in the research process where a treatment is tested in a small number of people who do not have the disease. The purpose of this phase is to see how safe the treatment is.

Phase 2

Phase 2 is a step in the research process in people who have a certain disease. The purpose is to see how well a new treatment works and how safe it is.

Phase 3

Phase 3 is a step in the research process in lots of people who have a certain disease. The purpose is to test how well a new treatment works and how safe it is.

Phase 4

Phase 4 is a step in the research process in people who have a certain disease after a treatment is approved for use. The purpose is to get additional information about the treatment risks, benefits, and best use.

PICC line

PICC line is a thin, bendy tube that is put into the arm and guided into a vein above the heart. It is used to take blood samples and to give treatments.

Placental growth factor (PlGF)

Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a protein that can be found in the eye when the back of the eye is damaged.

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is a type of lung infection. It is caused by a germ called pneumocystis jirovecii.

Polyarteritis nodosa

Polyarteritis nodosa is a rare disease that affects the blood vessels in the body. These blood vessels become swollen and damaged, which can cause pain and issues with the organs they supply.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome is a neurological disorder that can cause headaches, seizures, and other symptoms.

Precision medicine

Precision medicine is a special kind of medicine that uses information about a person's genes or proteins to help prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases. In cancer, precision medicine uses specific information about a person's tumour. This helps doctors figure out what type of cancer it is, plan the best treatment, and see if the treatment is working well. It can also help predict how the person might do in the future. It's like using personalized information to make the best decisions for each person's health. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene

Preclinical study

Preclinical study is a study that tests the treatment in the laboratory or in animals before it is given to people.

Primary IgA nephropathy

Primary IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a kidney disease characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the healthy cells in the kidneys. In IgAN, the immune system produces abnormal antibodies called IgA that deposit in the kidneys. This leads to inflammation and damage to the kidney tissue over time. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system, antibodies

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is a rare, rapidly progressing, and life-threatening brain infection. This can cause symptoms such as memory loss, difficulty speaking, problems with walking, and vision problems.

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a cancer that develops in a small gland called the prostate gland, which is a part of the male reproductive system.

Protocol

Protocol is a plan of the study to define all aspects of a study and make sure the study is done in the same way by all of the study team.

Pseudolymphoma

Pseudolymphoma is a health condition where the body has an immune response that looks like lymphoma (a type of cancer), but It is not actually cancer. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk and scalp.

Psychotic disorder

Psychotic disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by a disconnection from reality, which may involve hallucinations, delusions, or disordered thinking.

Public Registry

Public registry is a database the public can use to look up clinical studies e.g. ISRCTN Registry or ClinicalTrials.gov.

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF)

Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF) is a lung condition that gets worse over time and cannot be cured. It causes scarring of the lung tissue, which makes it difficult for people to breathe properly.

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA)

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare blood disorder where the body has trouble making red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Qualified healthcare professional

Qualified healthcare professional is an individual who has received formal training and education in the field of healthcare, such as a nurse or a doctor.

Randomisation

Randomisation is a way to use chance to place study participants into different study treatment groups like flipping a coin, to protect against bias.

Randomised controlled study

Randomised controlled study is a study where people are placed into groups by chance, like flipping a coin. Each group may receive a different treatment, and this helps researchers compare and see which treatment works better than others.

Rapid and deep B-cell depletion

Rapid and deep B-cell depletion refers to a treatment approach that effectively and quickly eliminates B-cells from the body. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: B-cells

Recessive

Every person gets two sets of genes, one from each parent. Genes can be either dominant or recessive. A recessive gene only affects a certain trait if it is passed on by both parents. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: gene, dominant

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC)

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer. It originates in the cells lining the small tubes within the kidney, known as renal tubules.

Representative

The participants in a study are similar overall to the people living in the whole country, region or world. This includes things like the number of men and women and the number of people of different ages included.

Respiratory depression

Respiratory depression is a condition characterized by slow and shallow breathing.

Restless legs syndrome

Restless legs syndrome is a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.

Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)

Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a thin layer of cells within the retina. It helps keep the retina alive and detect light. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: retina

Retinal vascular disorder

Retinal vascular disorder is a medical condition that affects the blood vessels of the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO)

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is blockage in a small blood vessel that carries blood away from the back of the eye. This can cause blurry vision or vision loss. Depending on the degree of blockage and blood supply restriction, RVO can be further subclassified as Ischaemic RVO or Non-ischaemic RVO. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: Ischaemic RVO, Non-ischaemic RVO

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is when the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye gets pulled away. This is because of a tear in the retina. The vitreous then gets behind it and pushes it away from where it should be. If retinal detachment isn't treated quickly it can cause someone to lose their vision. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: retina, vitreous

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory condition, which means that the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body by mistake. It causes painful swelling in the affected parts of the body. RA mainly attacks the joints, usually many joints at once. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Rhinitis

Rhinitis is a health condition that causes a person to sneeze or have a runny or stuffy nose.

Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a rare health condition where tiny clumps of cells called granulomas form in different parts of the body, often the lungs or lymph nodes. They cause inflammation and sometimes scarring.

Second-line treatment

Second-line treatment is treatment that is given when the first treatment doesn't work, or stops working.

Seizure disorder

Seizure disorder is a condition characterized by recurrent seizures, which are caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain.

Sepsis

Sepsis is a serious health condition due to an infection in the blood. It can cause injury to a person's organs and tissues. It raises the body temperature and makes the heart beat faster than usual. It also makes the body produce more white blood cells.

Serum sickness

Serum sickness is an allergic reaction to certain medicines or foreign materials in the blood. It causes symptoms like rash, fever, and joint pain.

Shunt thrombosis

Shunt thrombosis is when a clot forms in a medical device called a shunt, which is used to redirect blood flow in the body. The clot can block the shunt and cause problems.

Skin infection

Skin infection happens when germs infect the skin and make it make it painful, red, and swollen.

Sleep apnoea syndrome

Sleep apnoea syndrome is a disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or periods of shallow breathing during sleep.

Sleep disorder

Sleep disorder is a condition that disrupts a person's usual sleep pattern.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a type of very fast-growing lung cancer. It happens when some cells in the lungs start growing in a harmful way.

Somnambulism

Somnambulism is a behaviour disorder where a person walks or performs complex behaviours while in deep sleep.

Speech disorder

Speech disorder is a condition that affects a person's ability to produce usual speech.

Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect in which the spine and spinal cord don't develop properly, often resulting in a gap in the spine.

Spinal muscular atrophy

Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by weakness and wasting (atrophy) in muscles used for movement, caused by the loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.

Spine

The spine is the line of bones that runs down the centre of the back.

Steroid sparing treatment

Steroid-sparing treatments are medicines that aim to reduce or minimize the use of steroids in managing certain health conditions. Steroids, also known as corticosteroids, are medicines that are commonly used to reduce inflammation, suppress the immune system, and help the body's natural defence against sickness, however they cause significant long term side effects. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Stevens-johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare, serious condition of the skin and mucous membranes. It's usually a reaction to medicines that starts with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful rash that spreads and blisters. Then the top layer of affected skin dies, sheds and begins to heal after several days.

Stricturoplasty

Stricturoplasty is a surgery used to fix issues with areas of the bowel. These parts have become narrow and scarred in the digestive system.

Study outcome

A study outcome is a result of the study that will show whether or not the study treatment helped participants and/or how safe it was.

Study participant

Study participant is a person who agrees to join a research study.

Superiority study

Superiority study is a study which is done to find treatment options that work better than those that are already approved for a specific disease.

Syncope

Syncope is when a person faints or passes out temporary. It is usually related to insufficient blood flow to the brain, also known as fainting

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a type of disease called lupus. It happens when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, causing inflammation and damage in different parts of the body. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: immune system

Tachyarrhythmia

Tachyarrhythmia is when the heart beats really fast and doesn't follow its usual pattern.

Tachycardia

Tachycardia is when the heart rate is very fast, typically above 100 beats per minute.

Tetany

Tetany is a health condition that causes tight muscles and spasms, making it hard to move. It can also make it difficult to breathe and lead to other issues. This happens when the body's electrolytes, like calcium, are not balanced correctly.

Therapy of choice

Therapy of choice is the treatment or therapy that is considered the most suitable or effective option for a particular condition or situation.

Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia is a condition where there are low levels of the blood cell fragments that help the blood to clot. These cell fragments are called ‘platelets’.

Thrombosis

Thrombosis is a health condition where a blood clot forms inside a blood vessel, which can block the usual flow of blood. This can lead to various health problems depending on where the blood clots occurs.

Thrombotic microangiopathy

Thrombotic microangiopathy is a rare health condition where tiny blood vessels in the body get blocked by small blood clots. This can lead to problems with various organs, like the kidneys and brain, because they don't get enough blood.

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is a rare and serious blood condition where small blood clots form in the body. This can lead to low platelet levels and cause problems like bruising, bleeding, and damage to organs. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: platelet

Thyroid eye disease (TED)

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is eye issues caused by disease of the thyroid gland. It can cause dry eyes, blurred vision and bulging eyes. The thyroid gland is in the neck and controls how fast many activities happen in the body.

Thyroid hormone

Thyroid hormone is a special molecule that helps control cells in the body influencing how quickly or slowly they produce energy.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by a constant or recurring ringing, buzzing, or other noise in the ears.

TNM staging

TNM staging is a system used to describe the extent and spread of cancer within the body. It provides important information about the size of the tumour (T), the involvement of nearby lymph nodes (N), and the presence of metastasis, or spread to distant sites (M).

Tooth abscess

Tooth abscess is a build-up or pocket of pus in the teeth or gums. It is often due to an infection by bacteria. It looks like a red, swollen bump, boil, or pimple.

Torsade de pointes

Torsade de pointes is a heart condition where the chambers of the heart beat out of sync with each other.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis

Toxic epidermal necrolysis is a serious skin reaction that makes the skin feels uncomfortable. It can cause redness, peeling, or a rash that spreads and forms blisters.

Transaminases

Transaminases are proteins that are primarily found in the liver. When there are high levels of transaminases in the blood, it can indicate potential damage to the liver.

Treatment

Treatment is something people do or receive to try to cure or improve a medical condition. This might include things like a medicine or a special diet.

Treatment cycle

A treatment cycle is the period of treatment and recovery time before the next set of treatment is given.

Treatment-related side effect

A side effect is considered ‘treatment related’ if the doctor thinks that it is caused by the medicines that the person is taking. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: side effect

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the blood.

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a specific type of breast cancer where the tumour cells do not have special "receptors" for certain hormones or proteins. In TNBC, the tumour cells do not have receptors for the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, as well as the protein called HER2.

Tumour lysis syndrome

Tumour lysis syndrome is when cancer cells break down and die too fast, they release things into the blood. If this happens too quickly, it can harm important organs like the kidneys, heart, and liver by making the blood unbalanced.

Type 2 anti-CD20 antibody

Anti-CD20 antibody is a protein that can attach to another molecule called CD20 on the outside of certain cells in the body. This causes the cell to break down and die.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a health issue that causes inflammation in the inside layer of some parts of the bowel. It often affects the rectum and the lower colon. It can cause bleeding sores or mucus to form. This leads to frequent loose stools or bowel movements and bleeding from the rectum.

Upper respiratory tract infection

Upper respiratory tract infection is an infection that makes a person have a sore throat and cough. It also causes a runny nose and sneezing.

Urea

Urea is a waste product that is formed in the liver when proteins are broken down.

Urothelial carcinoma

Urothelial carcinoma, also known as transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), is a cancer that develops in the cells of the bladder lining.

transitional cell carcinoma (TCC)

Urothelial carcinoma, also known as transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), is a cancer that develops in the cells of the bladder lining.

Urticaria

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin condition where itchy, raised, red or white welts appear on the skin. It is often due to an allergic reaction or other triggers.

Uveitic macular oedema (UME)

Uveitic macular oedema (UME, sometimes called ‘UMO’ or retinal swelling or cystoid oedema) is swelling of the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. It is caused by inflammation inside the middle layer of the eye. It can cause changes in vision.

Vaccine adjuvants

Vaccine adjuvants is a vaccine with an added substance that boosts the body's immune system. Note: the following terms may require additional clarification in lay language: vaccine

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a protein that helps create new blood vessels in the body. In certain health conditions, like cancer, too much VEGF can cause unusual blood vessel growth, which can fuel the growth and spread of tumours. Some eye problems are also linked to VEGF.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors are medicines that block the action of VEGF, which can help prevent the formation of new blood vessels and slow down the growth of tumours.

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR)

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR) are proteins located on the surface of cells. They play a key role in the process of blood vessel formation.

Vasculitis

Vasculitis is a group of diseases where the blood vessels in the body become inflamed. This means that they become swollen and irritated. When this happens, the walls of the blood vessels can thicken, which makes the passageway for blood narrower. If blood flow is restricted, it can lead to damage in organs and tissues. Vasculitis comes in many types, and most of them are rare.

Ventricular arrhythmia

Ventricular arrhythmia is a problem with the rhythm of the heartbeat. This means that the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or in an irregular way. It happens because of a problem with the lower chambers of the heart.

Ventricular fibrillation

Ventricular fibrillation is a problem with the heart rhythm where the lower chambers of the heart beat fast and not regularly. This can increase the risk of stroke and other heart-related issues.

Ventricular tachycardia

Ventricular tachycardia is when the lower chambers of the heart, called the ventricles, beat really fast. Instead of moving at a usual speed, the muscles in the ventricles move faster than they should.

Visual field

The visual field is the entire area someone can see objects in. This includes the "peripheral vision." This is when someone sees things in "the corner of their eye."

Vogt-koyanagi-harada disease

Vogt-koyanagi-harada disease is a rare condition that affects the eyes, skin, and other parts of the body.

Wash-out period

Wash-out period is a time when someone is not having any treatment before starting participation in a study.

Water intoxication

Water intoxication is a health condition caused by drinking too much water. It makes the amount of salt in the blood lower than usual.

Wet Age Related Macular Disease (nAMD)

Wet age-related macular degeneration is a condition where the central area at the back of the eye gets thinner with age. This causes the vision in the centre of the eye to become blurry. Note: see also definition of Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD)

Withdraw

Participants can leave the study at any time, the study doctor will advise how this can be done safely.

X-ray scan

X-ray scan is a picture of the inside of a person’s body, using small amount of radiation.