Terminology

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging modality, particularly useful for soft tissues, which does not involve ionising radiation.

Radiopaedia - MRI

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune demyelinating disease: the insulating cover of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord (myelin) is attacked by the body's immune system.

There are three main types of MS:

• Relapsing-remitting: isolated attacks (relapses) are followed by recovery (remission)
• Secondary progressive: starting as relapsing-remitting, this type later progressively worsens without remission
• Primary progressive: a steady worsening from the onset, without remissions.

Signs/symptoms are unpredictable, but can include fatigue, optic neuritis and other visual disturbance, weakness of limbs, pain, bowel and bladder problems, and sexual problems.

NICE CKS - MS

The Mental State Examination (MSE) is used to assess a patient's emotions, thoughts, and behaviour. Present mental state informs differential diagnosis and can allow risk assessment. 

Student BMJ article on MSE

Mid-stream specimen of urine

The Medical Training Initiative (MTI) and International Medical Training Fellowship Programme (IMTF) are ran by the College and allow international (non-EU) junior and middle-grade doctors to train and work in the UK for up to two years, whilst enabling NHS Boards and Trusts to fill rota gaps with high quality staff.

RCPE MTI/IMTF information

Minimum unit pricing (MUP) is a policy aimed at improving public health by reducing alcohol consumption and thus alcohol-related harm, disease and death.

SHAAP champions MUP in Scotland (introduced in May 2018).

N&V refers to Nausea and Vomiting.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a medication used to treat paracetamol OD and to loosen thick mucus in CF and COPD.

NAD means 'no abnormality detected'.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is caused by a build-up of fat in the liver, typically seen in people who are overweight or obese.

NAFLD is a progressive disease: starting from simple fatty liver (steatosis), NAFLD progresses to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), to fibrosis, and ultimately to cirrhosis.

NICE CKS - Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease