October 2009

publication bias – the tendency for published results to be different to other trials. For example, trials that show a positive effect are more likely to be reported and published than trials that find no effect.

protozoa – a single-celled animals that are larger and more complex than bacteria.

prophylaxis – a treatment taken before an illness in order to prevent it occuring. Primary prophylaxis is the terming for taking a preventative treatment before ever having had the illness. Secondary prophylaxis is the term for continuing to take a …

prenatal – before birth. The time in which the foetus (developing baby) grows in the uterus.

prematurity (pregnancy) – when a baby is delivered after only 37 weeks or less.

Portacath – a small medical device fitted under the skin that allows injected drugs to have a more direct route to where they are needed.

peripheral neuropathy (PN) – damage to the nerves in your hands or feet. PN can be caused by HIV or some HIV drugs. Peripheral neuropathy – more infomation.

platelet – a blood cell that helps with blood clotting.

primary HIV infection (PHI) – early infection (usually first six months with after HIV infection). Sometimes called acute infection.

pharmacokinetics – the study of how drugs are absorbed, metabolised and cleared from the body.

pharmacist – a medical professional who specialises in sourcing and dispensing drugs. A pharmacist should be an expert in drug interactions, and on exactly how drugs should be taken.

performance stage – WHO classification of progress of HIV infection. WHO classification system.

percutaneous – umbilical cord sampling see cordocentis.

percentage (%) – a number as a proportion of 100.

peer support – support provided by people who share the same experience or problem. HIV peer support is provided by other HIV-positive people.

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) –  type of viral load test.

parasite – an animal or plant that get nutrients and support by living on another species.

outreach – a type of service which goes out to find and engage people.

organogenesis – the process of development of baby’s main organs. This period is the first 12 weeks in the womb.

opportunistic infection (OI) – an infection that occurs after your immune system has been damaged by HIV. OI chapter of the training manual.