EGFR
Epidermal growth factor receptor is a protein that is prominent in EGFR mutant cancers. This protein can be targeted to enable tumour suppression and control of disease.
MEDIAN
The median is the middle point that separates the lower half from the upper half of a data sample. Typically, in research articles you will see reference to the median PFS. In a sample of 99 people this would be the 50th person.
METS
Abbreviation of metastases. Metastases are other sites in the body the cancer has spread to beyond the primary site.
NICE
National Institute for Healthcare Excellence, the UK body that determines healthcare policies and procedures including the approval of drugs for use in the NHS.
PLEURAL EFFUSION
Fluid which collects between the lung and the lining of the lung. This results in the lung not being able expand as fully as it would do, normally leading to shortness of breath.
PLEURODESIS
A procedure in which a pleural effusion is drained, and chemicals are introduced into the space where the fluid was. This helps layers of the lung knit together and closes the space so the pleural effusion cannot reoccur.
PROGRESSION
Progression refers to cancer which starts to change or grow after a period of stability.
PFS
Progression Free Survival. This is the time from start of treatment to progression. This term is used in clinical trials.
OS
Overall Survival. The length of time from either diagnosis or the start of treatment until loss of life. This term is used extensively in clinical trials and research articles exploring the efficacy of new drugs.