Terminology D

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DECIPHER™ - Decipher™ test from GenomeDx Biosciences is performed with tissue obtained either from a biopsy or prostatectomy that measures how aggressive a cancer is likely to be.

DENDRITIC CELL - Specialized cells capabale of presenting antigens to T lymphocytes, which are part of the body’s immune system.

DECIPHER™ - Decipher™ test from GenomeDx Biosciences is performed with tissue obtained either from a biopsy or prostatectomy that measures how aggressive a cancer is likely to be.

DIFFERENTIAL DISPLAY ANALYSIS - A PCR-based method to define the presence and quantity of messenger RNA in cancer vs. normal or control material.

DIPLOID - Having two sets of chromosomes as normally found in cells of higher organisms.

DIHYDROTESTOSTERONE - A derivative of testosterone which has a higher biologic activity within the prostate than testosterone.

DIGITAL RECTAL EXAM (DRE) - A screening procedure for prostate cancer where a doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the size and shape of the prostate.

DNA (DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID) - The carrier of genetic information.

DONOR NEPHRECTOMY - Kidney transplantation.

DOUBLE BLIND - Characteristic of a controlled experiment in which neither the patient nor the attending physician knows whether the patient is getting one or another drug or dose.

DRAIN - Tube used to drain fluid accumulations after surgery.

DRY ORGASM - Sexual climax without the release of seminal fluid.