Online Medical Terminology and Dictionary

Terminology 'Z'

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Z chromosome A sex chromosome in certain animals, such as chickens, turkeys, and moths. In animals with a Z chromosome, males are ZZ and females are WZ

ZAP-70 Zeta-chain-associated protein kinase 70. A member of the protein tyrosine kinase family, ZAP-70 is normally expressed in T cells and natural killer cells and has a critical role in the initiation of T-cell signaling

Zebra In medicine, a very unlikely diagnostic possibility. It comes from an old saying used in teaching medical students about how to think logically in regard to the differential diagnosis:'When you hear hoof beats, think of horses, not zebras

Zeitgeber An environmental agent or event that provides the cue for setting or resetting a biological clock. To be synchronized with our environment, we need the input of Zeitgebers. The most important Zeitgeber in nature is light. Social factors, chemical factor and activity can also serve as Zeitgebers

Zellweger syndrome One of a group of related diseases called peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBD), inherited conditions that damage myelin in the brain and also affect the metabolism of particular substances. Features include enlargement of the liver, high levels of iron and copper in the blood, and vision disturbances. It can be caused by mutations in a number of different genes

Zenker diverticulum The most common type of outpouching in the esophagus, due to increased pressure causing the mucous membrane of the esophagus to herniate through a defect in the wall of esophagus. Zenker diverticuli are usually located in the posterior hypopharyngeal wall

Zhitai One of the three major preparations of red yeast rice, a tradition Chinese medicine now used to lower cholesterol

Zidovudine Also known as azidothymidine, is an antiretroviral medication used to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS. It is generally recommended for use with other antiretrovirals

Zika virus A Flavivirus related to dengue fever, West Nile, yellow fever, and Japanese encephalitis viruses (Flaviviridae). The Zika virus is transmitted to humans by Aedes mosquito bites and leads to an illness that lasts a few days to a week

Zinc A mineral that is essential to the body and is a constituent of many enzymes that permit chemical reactions to proceed at normal rates.

Zinc is involved in the manufacture of protein (protein synthesis) and in cell division. Zinc is also a constituent of insulin, and it is involved with the sense of smell

Zinc acetate A form of zinc that has been used in zinc supplements

Zinc finger A finger-shaped fold in a protein that permits it to interact with DNA and RNA

Zinc oxide An ingredient found in creams and ointments used to prevent or treat minor skin burns and irritation including sun burns and diaper rash

Zinc sulfate A form of zinc that can be administered in eyedrops

Zinsser disease Also called Brill-Zinsser disease, recrudescence of epidemic typhus years after the initial attack. The agent that causes epidemic typhus (Rickettsia prowazekii) remains viable for many years and then when host defenses are down, it is reactivated causing recurrent typhus. The disease is named for the physician Nathan Brill and the great bacteriologist Hans Zinsser

Zolmitriptan A triptan drug for the treatment of migraine

Zomig Brand name for zolmitriptan, a triptan drug for the treatment of migraine

Zona A synonym for shingles

Zona pellucida The strong membrane that forms around an ovum as it develops in the ovary

Zone Diet A weight loss plan based upon the idea that the right ratio of carbohydrates to

proteins and fats can control levels of insulin in the bloodstream

Zoonosis An infection that is known in nature to infect both humans and lower vertebrate animals

ZoonoticPertaining to a zoonosis: a disease that can be transmitted from animals to people or, more specifically, a disease that normally exists in animals but that can infect humans

Terminology 'Y'

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Y chromatin A brilliantly fluorescent body seen under the microscope in cells containing a Y chromosome when the cells are stained with the dye quinacrine

Y chromosome The sex chromosome that is found, together with an X chromosome, in most normal males

Y map The array of genes on the Y chromosome

Y sex-determining region A region on the Y chromosome that determines the sex of the individual. This region goes by the symbol SRY (sex region Y). SRY is necessary and sufficient for male sex determination. It is the testis- determining factor

Y-linkage The presence of a gene on the Y chromosome Y-linked inheritance Inheritance of genes on the Y chromosome . Since only males normally have a Y chromosome , Y- linked genes can only be transmitted from father to son . Y-linked inheritance is also called holandric inheritance

Yard A measurement of length that is equal to 0.9 meters, 3 feet, or 36 inches

Yawn Involuntary opening of the mouth, accompanied by slowly breathing inward and then outward

Yaws A chronic infectious disease that occurs commonly in the warm, humid regions of the tropics. Yaws is characterized by bumps on the skin of the face, hands, feet, and genital area

Yeast A group of single-celled fungi that reproduce by budding

Yeast syndrome The yeast Candida has been thought to cause a syndrome with a number of nonspecific problems including fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, short-attention span, depression and all manner of intestinal irregularities

Yeast vaginitis Infection of the vagina by a fungus known as Candida, characteristically causing itching, burning, soreness, pain during intercourse and urination, and vaginal discharge

Yeast vulvitis A yeast infection of the external genital organs of the female (the vulva)

Yellow enzymes A group of respiratory enzymes that catalyze reactions in the body permitting cells to respire, to breath, or in other word, to use oxygen. These biochemical
reactions are termed oxidation- reduction reactions

Yellow fever An acute systemic (bodywide) illness caused by a virus called a Flavivirus. In severe cases, the viral infection causes a high fever, bleeding into the skin, and necrosis (death) of cells in the kidney and liver The damage done to the liver from the virus results in severe jaundice which yellows the skin. Hence, the "yellow" in "yellow fever"

Yerba mate A stimulant beverage similar to tea, very popular in South America, brewed from the dried leaves and stemlets of a member of the holly family known botanically as Ilex paraguayensis

Yersinia A group of bacteria that appear rod -like under the microscope and include Yersinia pestis (the cause of the bubonic and pneumonic plague ), Yersinia entercolitic a (the cause of a disease called yersinosis), and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis (which causes a condition called mesenteric adenitis particularly in immunocompromised patients)

Yersiniosis An infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Yersinia enterocolitica (and, less often, other forms of Yersinia). The infection can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the age of the person infected

Yoga A relaxing form of exercise that was developed in India and involves assuming and holding postures that stretch the limbs and muscles, doing breathing exercises, and using meditation techniques to calm the mind

Yogurt A dairy product made by fermented milk with one or more bacterial cultures

Yolk sac A membranous sac containing yolk attached to the embryos of reptiles and birds and the larvae of some fishes. Human embryos have a yolk sac, too. The human yolk sac is a membrane outside the embryo that is connected by a tube (the yolk stalk) though the umbilical opening to the embryo's midgut. The yolk sac serves as an early site for the formation of blood and in time, is incorporated into the primitive gut of the embryo

Yttrium A rare elemental metal. A radioactive form of yttrium is used in radiation therapy and some types of immunotherapy

Terminology 'X'

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X chromosome The sex chromosome that is found twice in normal females and singly, along with a Y chromosome , in normal males

X inactivation The phenomenon in a female by which one X chromosome (either the maternally or paternally derived X) is randomly inactivated in an early embryonic cell, with fixed inactivation of that same X in all cells descended from that cell

X, factor A coagulation factor, a substance in blood essential to the normal clotting process.Production of factor X takes place in the liver and requires vitamin K. The gene for factor X is located on chromosome 13 and is in band 13q34 X-linked A gene on the X chromosome that is located on the X chromosome

X-ray High-energy radiation with waves shorter than those of visible light. X-ray is used in low doses to make images that help to diagnose diseases and in high doses to treat cancer

X-ray crystallography The use of X-rays of known wavelength to learn the structure of any crystalline material

Xanax A potent, short-acting benzodiazepine
anxiolytic—a minor tranquilizer. Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression

Xanthelasma Tiny (1-2 mm ) yellowish plaques that are slightly raised on the skin surface of the upper or lower eyelids. Xanthelasma is caused by tiny deposits of fat in the skin and is often associated with abnormal blood fat levels (hyperlipidemia )

Xanthine A substance found in caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline and encountered in tea, coffee, and the colas. Chemically, xanthine is a purine

Xanthinuria A rare metabolic disorder that is caused by lack of an enzyme needed to process xanthine, an alkaloid found in caffeine, theobromine, theophylline, and related substances. Unchecked, xanthinuria can lead to kidney stone formation

Xanthoma Yellowish firm nodules in the skin frequently indicating underlying disease, such as diabetes, disorder of fats (lipid disorder or hyperlipidemia), or other conditions. A xanthoma is a kind of harmless growth of tissue

Xanthoma tendinosum Xanthoma that clusters around tendons and is associated with lipid disorders, including chronically elevated blood cholesterol levels

Xanthoma tuberosum Xanthoma that clusters near joints and is associated with lipid disorders, cirrhosis of the liver, and thyroid disorders

Xanthomatosis A condition in which fatty deposits occur in various parts of the body. These fatty deposits are called xanthomas or xanthomata and appear as yellowish firm nodules in the skin

Xanthopsia A form of chromatopsia, a visual abnormality in which objects look as though they have been overpainted with an unnatural color. In xanthopsia, that color is yellow

Xanthosis Yellowing of the skin without yellowing of the eyes

Xenoantigen An antigen that is found in more than one species. An antigen is something that is capable of inducing an immune response

Xenobiotic Natural substances that are foreign to the body

Xenograft A surgical graft of tissue from one species to an unlike species

Xenotransplantation Transplantation from one species to another

Xenotropic virus A virus that can grow in the cells of a species foreign to the normal host species, a species different from that which normally hosts it

Xeric Characterized by a scanty supply of moisture (or tolerating or adapted to dry conditions)

Xeroderma Abnormally dry skin. Xeroderma can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin A, systemic illness (such as hypothyroidism or Sjogren's syndrome), overexposure to sunlight, and medication

Xeroderma pigmentosum A genetic disease that is characterized by such extraordinary sensitivity to sunlight that it results in the development of skin cancer at a very early age

Xerogram A picture of the body recorded on paper rather than on film

Xeromammography A photoelectric method of recording an x-ray image on a coated metal plate, using low-energy photon beams, long exposure time and dry chemical developers

Xerophagia Having a tendency to eat a dry diet

Xerophthalmia Dry eyes. Xerophthalmia can be associated with systemic diseases, such as Sjogren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis, deficiency of vitamin A, and use of some medications. It results from inadequate function of the lacrimal glands, which produce tears

Xeroradiograph A picture of the body recorded on paper rather than on film. Also called a xerogram

Xeroradiography The process of making a type of dry x-ray in which a picture of the body is recorded on paper rather than on film Xerosis Abnormal dryness of the skin, mucous membranes, or conjunctiva (xerophthalmia )

Xerostomia Dry mouth

Xiphoid process The lower part of the breastbone

XX male syndrome A syndrome characterized by the presence of an XX sex chromosome complement in an individual with male genitalia including both testes but no sperm production

XXX syndrome A chromosome condition present in 1 in 1000 females, due to the presence of three X chromosomes rather than the usual two. The condition is associated with increased height but no malformations. Intelligence ranges from above normal to mild retardation.The average IQ is 85 to 90

XXXX syndrome A chromosome disorder in females caused by the presence of four X chromosomes rather than the usual two. The disorder is characterized by decreased intelligence (IQ 30 to 80; average 55),speech and behavioral problems, tall stature and reduced fertility. Also known as tetra-X syndrome

XXXXX syndrome A chromosome disorder in females, caused by the presence of five X chromosomes rather than the usual two. It is characterized by decreased intelligence (IQ 20 to 75) and multiple malformations including upward-slanting palpebral fissures (eyeslits), heart defect, and small hands with incurving fifth fingers. It is the most severe extra-X syndrome in females.Also known as the penta-X syndrome

Xylitol A sweetener that is found in plants and used as a substitute for sugar. Xylitol is called a nutritive sweetener because it provides calories, just like sugar

XYY syndrome A chromosomal disorder that affects males only, caused by the presence of an extra Y chromosome. Symptoms may include increased height, speech delays,
learning disabilities, mild to moderate mental retardation, and behavioral disturbance. Also known as polysomy Y syndrome

Terminology "U"

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Ubidecarenone Also known as ubiquinone, ubidecarenone, coenzyme Q, and abbreviated at times to CoQ₁₀, CoQ, or Q₁₀ is a coenzyme that is ubiquitous in animals and most bacteria

Ubiquitin A small but extremely important protein that acts the "kiss of death" to other proteins. Ubiquitin consists of only 76 amino acids

Ubiquitination The "kiss of death" process for a protein. In ubiquitination, a protein is inactivated by attaching ubiquitin to it. Ubiquitin is a small molecule. It acts as a tag that signals the protein-transport machinery to ferry the protein to the proteasome for degradation

Ubiquitous Present everywhere. The small protein called ubiquitin was so-named because it is present in all types of cells and its amino acid sequence is identical in all creatures from insects to humans

UDP-glucuronosyltransferase A liver enzyme essential to the disposal of bilirubin (the chemical that results from the normal breakdown of hemoglobin from red blood cells)

Ulcer A lesion that is eroding away the skin or mucous membrane

Ulceration The process or fact of being eroded away, as by an ulcer

Ulcerative colitis A bowel disease that is characterized by inflammation with ulcer formation in the lining of colon (large intestine). Its cause is unknown

Ulcerative gingivitis This is trench mouth, a progressive painful infection with ulceration, swelling and sloughing off of dead tissue from the mouth and throat due to the spread of infection from the gums

Ulcerative proctitis Ulcerative colitis that is limited to the rectum

Ulna The larger of the two long bones within the forearm. (The smaller one is the radius) .The ulna is on the same side of the arm as the little finger

Ulnar Pertaining to the ulna, the larger bone in the forearm

Ulnar nerve A major nerve in the upper extremity that supplies both sensory and motor innervation to parts of the forearm and hand

Ulocarcinoma Cancer of the gums. It is often associated with the use of smokeless (chewing) tobacco

Ultrafast CT Electron beam computerized tomography (EBCT), a new (and controversial) noninvasive test for the detection of coronary artery disease (CAD). Ultrafast computerized tomography is designed to measure calcium deposits in the coronary arteries

Ultrasound High-frequency sound waves Ultra-sound waves can be bounced off tissues by using special devices. The echoes are then converted into a picture called a sonogram. Ultrasound imaging allows an inside view of soft tissues and body cavities without the use of invasive techniques. Ultrasound is often used to examine a fetus during pregnancy

Ultraviolet A One of the three types of invisible light rays (together with ultraviolet B and ultraviolet C) given off by the sun

Ultraviolet B One of the three types of invisible light rays (together with ultraviolet A and ultraviolet C) given off by the sun

Ultraviolet C The most dangerous type of ultraviolet light in terms of its potential to harm life on earth, it cannot penetrate earth's protective ozone layer. Therefore, it poses no threat to human, animal or plant life on earth

Ultraviolet radiation Invisible rays that are part of the energy that comes from the sun. Ultraviolet radiation can burn the skin and cause skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation is made up of three types of rays -- ultraviolet A,ultraviolet B, and ultraviolet C

Umami The taste of substances such as glutamate and monosodium glutamate (MSG) that are found in foods like bouillon and other stocks. Umami is the fifth primary element of taste. The other four are sweet, sour, salty, and bitter

Umbilical cord The cord that connects the developing fetus with the placenta while the fetus is in the uterus

Umbilicus The vestige left behind on a newborn's belly when the umbilical cord is cut. Also called the navel or belly button

Unassisted childbirth Birth of a baby without the assistance of an obstetrician, midwife, or other health professional

Unconscious Interruption of awareness of oneself and one's surroundings, lack of the ability to notice or respond to stimuli in the environment. A person may become unconscious due to oxygen deprivation, shock, central nervous system depressants such as alcohol and drugs, or injury Under the weather Colloquial expression for sick or ill. The phrase "under the weather" came from British sailing ships. When a sailor became ill he was confined below deck out of the weather, so it was said that he was under the weather

Underload syndrome Lack of stimulation in life (such as with an extremely dull job) can result in depression and health problems including headaches, fatigue and recurrent infection

Undifferentiated cancer A cancer in which the cells are very immature and "primitive" and do not look like cells in the tissue from it arose

Undulant fever The disease is called undulant fever because the fever is typically undulant, rising and falling like a wave. It is also called brucellosis after its bacterial cause. The disease is transmitted through contaminated and untreated milk and milk products and by direct contact with infected animals

Undulatant Having a wavy border or form

Undulate To have a wavy border or form. Also, to rise and fall like a wave

Unguis incarnatus A common toenail problem of uncertain etiology. Various causes include poorly fit (tight) footwear, infection, improperly trimmed toenails, trauma, and heredity. The great toe is the most commonly involved

Unicellular Consisting of one cell only. Some organisms, such as bacteria, are unicellular

Unicornuate Having one horn, or being horn shaped

Unilateral Having, or relating to, one side

Uniparous Producing only one offspring at a time

Universal colitis Ulcerative colitis that involves the entire colon (the large intestine)

Universal donor A person who is type O in the ABO blood group system and negative for RhD blood group antigen and can donate blood to all recipients

Unresectable Unable to be removed (resected) by surgery

Unresolved grief Grief characterized by the extended duration of the symptoms, by interference of the grief symptoms with the normal functioning of the mourner, and/or by the intensity of the symptoms

Unsaturated fat A fat that is liquid at room temperature and comes from a plant, such as olive, peanut, corn, cottonseed, sunflower, safflower, or soybean oil. Unsaturated fat tends not to raise the level of LDL ('bad') cholesterol in the blood

Unstable diabetes A type of diabetes when a person's blood glucose (sugar) level often swings quickly from high to low and from low to high. Also called "brittle diabetes" or "labile diabetes."

Unsteadiness Loss of one's equilibrium in regard to the environment, often with a feeling of almost falling, or the result of bumping into things

Unwell Not well or not in good health

Up-regulation An increase of a cellular component

Upper GI series A series of x-rays of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine (upper gastrointestinal, or GI,tract) that are taken after the patient drinks a barium solution

Upper leg More properly called the thigh, the upper leg is the area between the knee and the hip

Upper motor neuron A neuron that starts in the motor cortex of the brain and terminates within the medulla (another part of the brain) or within the spinal cord

Upper respiratory infection An infection of the upper part of the respiratory system which is above the lungs. An upper respiratory infection can be due to any number of viral or bacterial infections

Urachus A canal that connects the urinary bladder to the umbilicus (bellybutton) during fetal development

Uracil (U) A nucleotide base and one member of the A-U (adenine - uracil) base pair in RNA. Uracil takes the place in RNA that thymine (T) occupies in DNA

Uranium A metallic element that is used as nuclear fuel and is highly toxic and radioactive. The breakdown of uranium products creates radon daughters. These can attach to dust particles and, if workers inhale the dust, the particles lodge in their lungs, where they release high doses of radiation

Urate A salt derived from uric acid. When the body cannot metabolize uric acid properly, urates can build up in body tissues or crystallize within the joints

Urban typhus of Malaya Murine typhus, an acute infectious disease with fever, headache, and rash, all quite similar to, but milder than, epidemic typhus. It is caused by a related microorganism, Rickettsia typhi (R. mooseri), transmitted to humans by rat fleas (Xenopsylla cheopis)

Urea A nitrogen-containing substance normally cleared from the blood by the kidney into the urine

Urea breath test (UBT) A rapid diagnostic procedure used to identify infections by Helicobacter pylori, a spiral bacterium implicated in gastritis, gastric ulcer, and peptic ulcer disease

Urea cycle disorder One of a number of inherited medical conditions that arise due to a deficiency in one of six enzymes involved in the urea cycle

Ureaplasma A bacterium that commonly infects the urogenital tract and can cause premature birth or spontaneous abortion. During delivery, ureaplasma can infect the newborn and cause meningitis, pneumonia, or septicemia

Uremia The presence of excessive amounts of urea in the blood , which may be a sign of kidney disease or failure. It is also referred to as azotemia

Ureter One of the two tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.Each ureter arises from a kidney, descends, and ends in the bladder

Urethra The tube that leads from the bladder and transports and discharges urine outside the body

Urethral sphincter A muscular mechanism that controls the retention and release of urine from the bladder

Urethritis Inflammation of the urethra

Urethroscope A device for examining the inside of the urethra

Urge incontinence A sudden involuntary contraction of the muscular wall of the bladder causing urinary urgency, an immediate unstoppable urge to urinate

Urgency, urinary An immediate unstoppable urge to urinate, due to a sudden involuntary contraction of the muscular wall of the bladder

Uric acid A breakdown product of purines that are part of many foods

Uricaciduria The presence of excess uric acid in the urine, which may be a sign of gout or kidney stones

Uridine monophosphate (UMP) A molecular ion derived from uridylic acid. It has a uracil as its base

Urinalysis A test that is done in order to analyze urine. Because toxins and excess fluid are removed from the body in urine, analysis of urine can provide important health clues. Urinalysis can be used to detect certain diseases, such as diabetes, gout, and other metabolic disorders, as well as kidney disease. It can also be used to uncover evidence of drug abuse

Urinary Having to do with the function or anatomy of the kidneys, ureters,bladder, or urethra

Urinary calculus A stone in the urinary tract. The word "calculus" in Latin means "a pebble." Pebbles were once used for counting, from which came the mathematical field of calculus. A urinary calculus is a pebble in the urinary system

Urinary tract The organs of the body that produce, store, and discharge urine. These organs include the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra

Urine Liquid waste produced by the kidneys. Urine is a clear, transparent fluid that normally has an amber color. The average amount of urine excreted in 24 hours is between 5 to 8 cups or 40 and 60 ounces

Urine blood Blood in the urine. Also called hematuria

Urine hemoglobin The presence of free hemoglobin in the urine, an abnormal finding, that may make the urine look dark. Hemoglobin in the urine is termed hemoglobinuria

Urine pH A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of urine

Urogastrone A potent inhibitor of gastric acid secretion which is present in human urine

Urogenital Relating to both the urinary system and the genital system

Urography A method for examining the structure and functionality of the urinary system. A special dye is injected, and an X-ray machine records the dye's progress through the urinary tract. Urography is particularly useful for discovering cysts or other internal blockages

Urolithiasis The process of forming stones in the kidney, bladder, and/or urethra (urinary tract)

Urologist A physician who specializes in diseases of the urinary organs in females and the urinary and sex organs in males

Urothelium The lining of the ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra

Urticaria Another name for hives. Raised, itchy areas of skin that are usually a sign of an allergic reaction. Hives can be rounded or flat-topped but are always elevated above the surrounding skin. They reflect circumscribed dermal edema (local swelling of the skin). The hives are usually well circumscribed but may be coalescent and will blanch with pressure

Urticaria pigmentosa The most common form of mastocytosis consisting of small aggregations of mast cells within characteristic salmon-brown patches of skin which itch when stroked and mat develop a
localized hive

Usher syndrome The most common disease that diminishes both hearing and vision, a group of genetic disorders in which retinitis pigmentosa (an eye disease that causes vision to deteriorate over time) is combined with congenital deafness

Uterine cancer A malignant tumor of the uterus (womb), which occurs most often in women between the ages of 55 and 70. Abnormal bleeding after menopause is the most common symptom

Uterine contraction The tightening and shortening of the uterine muscles

Uterine fibroids Also known as uterine leiomyomas or fibroids, are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus. Most women have no symptoms while others may have painful or heavy periods. If large enough, they may push on the bladder causing a frequent need to urinate

Uterine fornix The fornix of the uteru refers to the anterior (front) and posterior (back) recesses into which the upper vagina is divided. These vault like recesses are formed by protrusion of the cervix into the vagina. The fornix uteri is also known as the fornix vaginae (the vaginal fornix)

Uterine lining The inner layer of the uterus (womb); the cells that line the womb; anatomically termed the endometrium

Uterine retroversion A slight to dramatic placement of the uterus that orients it toward the back. A uterine retroversion is common and usually causes no difficulty. In severe cases, it can affect choice of birth control method and cause pain in the pelvic area, especially during intercourse

Uterine rupture A tear in the uterus, a very serious situation. Causes include trauma, labor with an unusually big baby, multiple gestation, and vaginal delivery after a prior C-section (in which the old C- section scar ruptures). Uterine rupture can lead to hysterectomy, urologic injury, the need for blood transfusion, and even the death of the mother and baby

Terminology "V"

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Vaccination Injection of a killed microbe in order to stimulate the immune system against the microbe, thereby preventing disease

Vaccines Microbial preparations of killed or modified microorganisms that can stimulate an immune response in the body to prevent future infection with similar microorganisms.These preparations are usually delivered by injection

Vaccinia The cowpox virus which is used to vaccinate against smallpox

Vaccinia immune globulin A blood product rich in antibodies against vaccinia, the virus in the smallpox vaccine. Vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) is the only known antidote to the complications of vaccination

Vaccinia keratitis Infection of the cornea due to implantation of vaccinia virus from a smallpox vaccination

Vagina The muscular canal that extends from the cervix to the outside of the body. It is usually 6 to 7 inches in length, and its walls are lined with mucous membrane. It includes two vaultlike structures: the anterior (front) vaginal fornix and the posterior (rear) vaginal fornix

Vaginal discharge A fluid produced by glands in the vaginal wall and cervix that drains from the opening of the vagina. The amount and appearance of normal vaginal discharge varies throughout the menstrual cycle

Vaginal fornix The anterior (front) and posterior (back) recesses into which the upper vagina is divided.These vaultlike recesses are formed by protrusion of the cervix into the vagina. The fornix uteri is also known as the fornix vaginae (or the vaginal fornices) and the uterine fornices

Vaginal hysterectomy Removal of the uterus through a surgical incision made within the vagina

Vaginal introitus The vaginal opening is called the introitus of the vagina

Vaginal membrane A thin membrane which completely or partially occludes the vaginal opening . This fold of mucous membrane is usually present at birth at the orifice of the vagina. It is also called the hymen

Vaginal opening The exterior opening to the vagina, the muscular canal that extends from the cervix to the outside of the female body. Also called vaginal introitus and vaginal vestibule

Vaginal spermicide A substance that will kill
sperm in the vagina

Vaginismus A sexual dysfunction in women characterized by a painful, involuntary tightening or spasm of the muscles that surround the vaginal entrance that interferes with sexual intercourse

Vaginitis Inflammation of the vagina

Vaginoscopy The use of a viewing instrument to visualize the vaginal canal. Most commonly, a form of endoscope is used in vaginoscopy. Vaginoscopy is performed to diagnose anatomical abnormalities or lesions affecting the vaginal wall

Vagus nerve A nerve that supplies nerve fibers to the pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), lungs, heart, esophagus, and intestinal tract, as far as the transverse portion of the colon. The vagus nerve also brings sensory information back to the brain from the ear, tongue, pharynx, and larynx

Valetudinarian Someone with a weak or sickly constitution, especially someone whose chief concern is being or becoming a chronic invalid

Valgus (valga , valgum ) Angled outward, bent or twisted outward, as in cubitus valgus , coxa valga , hallux valgus , and genu valgum

Valine An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein. A dietary essential amino acid, valine is required for optimal growth of children. It is one of the three branched-chain amino acids

Vallecula An anatomic term for a crevice, furrow or depression

Valley fever Lung infection with the fungus Coccidioides immitis. The fungus is common in the sands of the deserts of the southwest, including the San Joaquin valley in California, after which it was named. Also called coccidiomycosis

Valsalva The Valsalva maneuver in which a person tries to exhale forcibly with a closed glottis (windpipe) so that no air goes out
through the mouth or nose

Vanishing bone syndrome A rare, inherited form of osteolysis -- the destruction of bone

Vanishing lung syndrome A radiological syndrome in which the lungs appear to be disappearing on X-ray. The syndrome is characterized by a progressive decrease in the
radiographic opacity of the lung. Causes include the accelerated progression of emphysema destroying the lung or the rapid cystic destruction of the lung by infection

Vanishing twin A twin detected in early pregnancy that is miscarried, frequently by resorption, without clinical signs or symptoms

Variant angina Chest pain due to coronary artery spasm, a sudden constriction of a coronary artery (one of the vessels that supply the heart muscle with blood rich in oxygen) depriving the heart muscle (myocardium) of blood and oxygen. This is also called Prinzmetal angina

Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as mad cow disease, and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) are related disorders. They belong to the family of diseases known as the transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs)

Varicella A highly infectious viral disease, known familiarly as chickenpox

Varicocele Elongation and enlargement of veins within the network of veins (pampiniform plexus) that leave the testis to form the testicular vein. A varicocele appears bluish through the scrotum, feels like a bag of worms, and can cause pain or discomfort

Varicose vein A vein that has enlarged and twisted, often appearing as a bulging, blue blood vessel that is clearly visible through the skin

Varicosity An enlarged and tortuous vein, artery, or lymphatic vessel

Variola Smallpox, a highly contagious and frequently fatal viral disease characterized by a biphasic (double-humped) fever and a distinctive skin rash that (if the patient survived) left pock marks in its wake

Variolation The old practice of inoculating someone with the virus of smallpox to produce immunity to the disease

Varix An enlarged and convoluted vein, artery, or lymphatic vessel

Varus (vara, varum ) Angled inward, bent or twisted inward, as in cubitus varus , hallux varus , talipes equinovarus , genu varum, and coxa vara

Vas deferens The tube that connects the testes with the urethra. The vas deferens is a coiled duct that conveys sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct and the urethra

Vasa previa A condition in which blood vessels within the placenta or the umbilical cord are trapped between the fetus and the opening to the birth canal, a situation that carries a high risk the fetus may die from hemorrhage due to a blood vessel tearing at the time the fetal membranes rupture or during labor and delivery. Another danger is lack of oxygen to the fetus

Vascular Relating to blood vessels

Vascular bed The vascular system, or a part thereof

Vascular dementia A decline in thinking skills caused by conditions that block or reduce blood flow to the brain, depriving brain cells of vital oxygen and nutrients

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A substance made by cells that stimulates new blood vessel formation, a mitogen for vascular endothelial (vessel lining) cells. VEGF is a polypeptide structurally related to platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). The gene for VEGF is on chromosome 6p12

Vascular headache an outdated term to describe certain types of headache which were thought to be related to blood vessel swelling and hyperemia as cause of pain

Vasculitis A general term for a group of uncommon diseases that feature inflammation of the blood vessels

Vasectomy A surgical procedure designed to make a man sterile by cutting or blocking both the right and left vas deferens , the tubes through which sperm pass into the ejaculate

Vasoconstriction Narrowing of the blood vessels that results from contraction of the muscular walls of the vessels

Vasodepressor syncope The temporary loss of consciousness in a particular kind of situation

Vasodilation Widening of blood vessels that results from relaxation of the muscular walls of the vessels

Vasodilators Agents that act as blood vessel dilators and open vessels by relaxing their muscular walls, such as nitroglycerin

Vasomotor Relating to the nerves and muscles that cause blood vessels to constrict or dilate

Vasomotor rhinitis Inflammation of the nose (rhinitis) due to abnormal nerve control of the blood vessels in the nose

Vasopressin A relatively small (peptide) molecule that is released by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain after being made nearby (in the hypothalamus). Vasopressin has an antidiuretic action that prevents the production of dilute urine

Vasovagal reaction A reflex of the involuntary nervous system that causes the heart to slow down(bradycardia) and that, at the same time, affects the nerves to the blood vessels in the legs permitting those vessels to dilate (widen). As a result the heart puts out less blood, the blood pressure drops, and what blood is circulating tends to go into the legs rather than to the head. The brain is deprived of oxygen and the fainting episode occurs. The vasovagal reaction is also called a vasovagal attack

Vasovagal syncope The temporary loss of consciousness in a particular kind of situation (situational syncope) due to a vasovagal reaction

Vector In medicine, a carrier of disease or of medication

Vectrin Brand name for minocycline

Vein A blood vessel that carries blood that is low in oxygen content from the body back to the heart

Veisalgia Medical term for a hangover

Velocardiofacial syndrome A genetic condition
characterized by abnormal pharyngeal arch development that results in defective development of the parathyroid glands, thymus, and conotruncal region of the heart

Velpeau hernia A protrusion of tissue in front of the femoral blood vessels in the groin

Vena cava The superior vena cava is the large vein which returns blood to the heart from the head, neck and both upper limbs. The inferior vena cava returns blood to the heart from the lower part of the body

Venereal Having to do with sexual contact

Venereal disease A disease that is contracted and transmitted by sexual contact, caused by microorganisms that survive on the skin or mucus membranes, or that are transmitted via semen, vaginal secretions, or blood during intercourse

Venereal wart A wart that is confined primarily to the moist skin of the genitals. These warts are due to viruses belonging to the family of human papilloma viruses (HPVs) which are transmitted through sexual contact. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth

Venin Snake venom (poison)

Venipuncture The puncture of a vein with a needle to withdraw blood. Also called phlebotomy or, more often, a blood draw

Venom A poison, particularly one secreted by an animal

Venomous Full of venom. Or Having venom

Venous aneurysm A localized widening and bulging of a vein

Venous catheterization The insertion of a tiny tube (catheter) into a peripheral or central vein to deliver fluids or medication

Venous claudication Limping and/or pain due to inadequate venous drainage, poor return of blood by the veins, from the legs

Ventilation The exchange of air between the lungs and the atmosphere so that oxygen can be exchanged for carbon dioxide in the alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs)

Ventilator A machine that mechanically assists a patient in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide , a process sometimes referred to as artificial respiration

Ventral Pertaining to the front or anterior of any structure

Ventricle A chamber of an organ

Ventricular Pertaining to the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart

Ventricular arrhythmias Abnormal rapid heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that originate in the lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles)

Ventricular fibrillation An abnormal and irregular heart rhythm in which there are rapid uncoordinated fluttering contractions of the lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) A hole in the heart, is a common heart defect that's present at birth (congenital). The hole (defect) occurs in the wall (septum) that separates the heart's lower chambers (ventricles) and allows blood to pass from the left to the right side of the heart

Ventricular septum The wall between the two lower chambers (ventricles ) of the heart

Ventricular tachycardia An abnormal heart rhythm that is rapid and regular and that originates from an area of the lower chamber (ventricle) of the heart. Ventricular tachycardias can be life-threatening arrhythmias that are commonly associated with damage to the heart muscle due to coronary artery disease

Ventriculopleural shunt A shunt that drains fluid from a cerebral ventricle into the pleural (chest) cavity. The shunt is designed to relieve hydrocephalus (water on the brain)

Venule A little vein that goes from a capillary to a vein

Vernix A white, cheesy substance that covers and protects the skin of a fetus

Vernix caseosa A white cheesy substance that covers and protects the skin of the fetus and is still all over the skin of a baby at birth. Vernix caseosa is composed of sebum (the oil of the skin) and cells that have sloughed off the fetus' skin

Verruca A wart by another name, a local growth of the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) caused by a virus

Version In obstetrics, the process of turning the fetus. A cephalic version brings the fetal head into the birth canal.In gynecology, the tilting of the uterus. Uterine retroversion indicates the uterus is tilted backwards. In ophthalmology, the conjugate rotation (turning) of both eyes in the same direction

Vertebra A vertebra is one of 33 bony segments that form the spinal column of humans. There are 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral (fused into one sacrum bone) and 4 coccygeal (fused into one coccyx bone)

Vertebral arch A circle of bone around the canal through which the spinal cord passes. A vertebral arch is composed of a floor at the back of the vertebra, walls (the pedicles), and a roof where two laminae join

Vertebral artery One of two key arteries located in the back of the neck that carry blood from the heart to the brain, spine, and neck muscles

Vertebral column The 33 vertebrae that fit together to form a flexible, yet extraordinarily tough, column that serves to support the back through a full range of motion. The vertebral column also protects the spinal cord, which runs from the brain through the hollow space in the middle of the vertebral column

Vertebral rib One of the last two ribs. A rib is said to be "vertebral" if it does not attach to the sternum (the breast bone) or to another rib

Vertebroplasty A nonsurgical method for repairing osteoporosis back fractures, such as vertebral compression fractures

Vertex The top of the head

Vertical In anatomy, upright

Vertical transmission Passage of a pathogen
from mother to baby during the period immediately before and after birth. Transmission might occur across the placenta, in the breast milk, or through direct contact during or after birth

Vertigo A feeling that you are dizzily turning around or that things are dizzily turning about you. Vertigo is usually due to a problem with the inner ear. Vertigo can also be caused by vision problems

Very low calorie diet (VLCD)A doctor-supervised weight loss plan that uses commercially prepared formulas (usually shakes and/or bars) to achieve significant short-term weight loss

Vesical Refers to the urinary bladder

Vesicant A substance that causes tissue blistering. Also known as vesicatory

Vesicate To blister

Vesicatory A substance that causes tissue blistering. Also referred to as a vesicant

Vesicle In dermatology , a vesicle is a small blister , as on the skin

Vesicoenteric Pertaining to both the urinary bladder and intestine or to a communication between them

Vesicular Referring to the presence of one or more vesicles

Vesicular rickettsiosis A mild infectious disease first observed in New York City, caused by Rickettsia akari, transmitted from its mouse host by chigger or adult mite bites. There is fever, a dark spot that becomes a small ulcer at the site of the bite, swollen glands (lymphadenopathy) in that region, and a raised blistery (vesicular) rash

Vesiculitis Inflammation of a vesicle, particularly of the seminal vesicles behind the male bladder

Vesiculography The use of special X-ray equipment and a dye to examine the seminal vesicles and related structures.Vesiculography is most often used when prostate disease or cancer is suspected

Vessel A tube in the body that carries fluids

Vestibular Having to do with a structure that is a vestibule (entrance), such as the vestibule of the ear. Or Having to do with the body's system for maintaining equilibrium

Vestibular apparatus The vestibule and three semicircular canals of the inner ear. These structures work with the brain to sense, maintain, and regain balance and a sense of where the body and its parts are positioned in
space

Vestibular disorders Disorders of the body's balance (vestibular) system in the inner ear due to a tremendous range of conditions including vertigo, Meniere's disease, acoustic neuroma, multiple sclerosis, syphilis, trauma, ear infections, medications toxic to the ear, epilepsy etc

Vestibular neuronitis Inflammation of the vestibular nerve, the nerve running to the vestibule

Vestibular system A system that is composed of the vestibular apparatus , the vestibulocochlear nerve , and the parts of the brain that interpret and respond to information derived from those structures

Vestibule In medicine and dentistry, a space or cavity at the entrance to a canal, channel, tube, or vessel

Vestibulocochlear nerve A nerve that is responsible for the sense of hearing and that is also pertinent to the senses of balance and body position

Vestigial Referring to a vestige (remnant) or a primitive structure

Viable Capable of life

Vibramycin Brand name for doxycycline

Vibrio A group of bacteria that includes Vibrio cholerae, the agent that causes cholera

Video-assisted resection Surgery that is aided by the use of a video camera that projects and enlarges the image on a television screen.Also called video-assisted surgery

Vidian neuralgia A distinctive syndrome of headaches, better known today as cluster headache

Villi Plural of villus, a tiny finger-like or vascular projection

Vinca alkaloid A medication in a class of anticancer drugs that inhibit cancer cell growth by stopping cell division (mitosis). The vinca alkaloids are also called antimitotic or antimicrotubule agents, or mitotic inhibitors

Vincent angina This is trench mouth, a progressive painful infection with ulceration, swelling and sloughing off of dead tissue from the mouth and throat due to the spread of infection from the gums

Vinyl chloride A substance used in manufacturing plastics that is known to be toxic and carcinogenic

Viral Of or pertaining to a virus

Viral encephalitis Inflammation of the brain as a result of virus infection

Viral hemorrhagic fever A syndrome caused by infection with one of a number of viruses that can cause increased permeability of the blood vessels resulting in bleeding into the skin, internally, or from the mouth or other orifices. The bleeding is usually not life-threatening

Viral hepatitis Liver inflammation caused by a virus. Specific hepatitis viruses have been labeled A, B, C, D, and E

Viremia The presence of a virus in the blood

Virginal membrane A thin membrane which completely or partially occludes the vaginal opening . This fold of mucous membrane is usually present at birth at the orifice of the vagina. In medicine, it is called the vaginal membrane or the hymen

Virilize To cause a female to develop male characteristics such as a deepened voice, an increase in body and facial hair, a decrease in breast size, an enlargement of the clitoris, and "male-pattern" baldness

Virion A virus particle

Virology The study of viruses

Virulence The ability of an agent of infection to produce disease

Virulent Extremely severe or harmful in its effects

Viscera The internal organs of the body, specifically those within the chest (as the heart or lungs) or abdomen (as the liver, pancreas or intestines)

Visceral Referring to the viscera, the internal organs of the body

Visceral leishmaniasis A chronic and potentially fatal parasitic disease of the viscera (particularly the liver, spleen, bone marrow and lymph nodes) due to infection by Leishmania donovani. Also known as Kala-azar

Visceral pericardium The inner layer of the pericardium

Vision therapy The use of special eye exercises to address eye defects, such as strabismus

Visual acuity The clarity or clearness of vision, a measure of how well a person sees

Visual acuity test This test measures how well you see at various distances. It is the familiar eye chart test

Visual contrast sensitivity The ability to perceive differences between an object and its background

Visual evoked response VER A type of electrophysiologic retinal testing done to evaluate the retina and optic nerve by measuring the electrical potential resulting from a visual stimulus

Visual field The entire area that can be seen when the eye is directed forward, including that which is seen with peripheral vision

Visual field test A test that measures the extent and distribution of the field of vision. A visual field test may be done via a number of methods, including termed confrontation, tangent screen exam, and automated perimetry

Virulence The ability of an agent of infection to produce disease

Virulent Extremely severe or harmful in its effects

Viscera The internal organs of the body, specifically those within the chest (as the heart or lungs) or abdomen (as the liver, pancreas or intestines)

Visceral Referring to the viscera, the internal organs of the body

Visceral leishmaniasis A chronic and potentially fatal parasitic disease of the viscera (particularly the liver, spleen, bone marrow and lymph nodes) duet o infection by Leishmania donovani. Also known as Kala-azar

Visceral pericardium The inner layer of the pericardium

Vision therapy The use of special eye exercises to address eye defects, such as strabismus

Visual acuity The clarity or clearness of vision, a measure of how well a person sees

Visual acuity test This test measures how well you see at various distances. It is the familiar eye chart test

Visual contrast sensitivity The ability to perceive differences between an object and its background

Visual evoked response (VER) A type of electrophysiologic retinal testing done to evaluate the retina and optic nerve by measuring the electrical potential resulting from a visual stimulus

Visual field The entire area that can be seen when the eye is directed forward,including that which is seen with peripheral vision

Visual field test A test that measures the extent and distribution of the field of vision. A visual field test may be done via a number of methods, including termed confrontation, tangent screen exam, and aautomate perimetry

Visual nerve pathways The visual pathway consists of the series of cells and synapses that carry visual information from the environment to the brain for processing. It includes the retina, optic nerve, optic chiasm, optic tract, lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN), optic radiations, and striate cortex

Visual pathway glioma A slow-growing benign tumor of the eye

Visual receptor The layer of rods and cones that are the visual cells of the retina

Vital Necessary to maintain life

Vitamin A Vitamin A is retinol. Carotene compounds (found, for example, in egg yolk, butter and cream) are gradually converted by the body to vitamin A (retinol). A form of vitamin A called retinal is responsible for transmitting light sensation in the retina of the eye

Vitamin B (niacin) One of the B-complex vitamins. Deficiency of niacin causes pellagra

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Vitamin B1 acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of the body. Deficiency of thiamine leads to the disease beriberi, a disease affecting the heart and nervous system

Vitamin B12 A vitamin important for the normal formation of red blood cells and the health of the nerve tissues. Undetected and untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and permanent nerve and brain damage

Vitamin B15 An old name for dimethylglycine (DMG, pangamic acid), which is no longer considered to be a vitamin by the strict definition of that word

Vitamin B2 An essential nutrient found in meat, dairy foods, plant foods and grain products. The body requires vitamin B2 to break down food components, maintain tissue, and absorb other nutrients

Vitamin B5 Vitamin B5 is pantothenic acid, one of the less well known B vitamins, perhaps because it is widely distributed in nature. Pantothenic acid is virtually ubiquitous. It is present in foods as diverse as poultry, soybeans, yogurt, and sweet potatoes

Vitamin B6 A group of closely related chemical compounds with related names -- pyridoxine, pyridoxal and pyridoxamine -- that are transformed within the body to yet another form of vitamin B6, pyridoxal phosphate, that acts as a coenzyme. (A number of vitamins serve as coenzymes, substances that enhance the action of enzymes and thereby aid in catalyzing biochemical reactions.)

Vitamin C An essential nutrient found mainly in fruits and vegetables. The body requires vitamin C to form and maintain bones, blood vessels, and skin. Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid

Vitamin D A steroid vitamin which promotes the intestinal absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorus. Under normal conditions of sunlight exposure, no dietary
supplementation is necessary because sunlight promotes adequate vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Deficiency can lead to bone deformity (rickets) in children and bone weakness (osteomalacia) in adults

Vitamin D3 A vitamin produced by the body when exposed to ultraviolet light or obtained from dietary sources.Vitamin D3 is a hormone that has an important role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism

Vitamin E Alpha-tocopherol, an antioxidant vitamin which binds oxygen free radicals that can cause tissue damage. Deficiency of vitamin E can lead to anemia. Vitamin E may play a possible role in preventing heart disease and cancer of the lung

Vitamin K One of two naturally occurring fat-soluble vitamins (vitamin K1 and vitamin K2) needed for the clotting of blood because of an essential role in the production of prothrombin (a clotting factor)

Vitamin O Not a true vitamin but rather a pricey health supplement that is composed largely of salt water (plus some germanium, a trace element dangerous to health)

Vitamin P An old name for substances now known as bioflavinoids. They are no longer considered to be vitamins

Vitiligo A condition in which the skin turns white due to the loss of pigment from the melanocytes, cells that produce the pigment melanin that gives the skin color. In vitiligo, the melanocytes are destroyed, leaving depigmented patches of skin

Vitrectomy Removal of the gel (called the vitreous) from within the eyeball.This may be done because it has blood and scar tissue in it that blocks sight. The eye surgeon then replaces the clouded gel with a clear fluid

Vitreous A clear, jelly-like substance that fills the middle of the eye. Also called the vitreous humor

Vocal cord One of two small bands of muscle within the larynx. These muscles vibrate to produce the voice. The vocal cords form a "V" inside the larynx, a 2-inch-long, tube-shaped organ in the neck

Vocal tremor Trembling or shaking of one or more of the muscles of the larynx (the voice box ), resulting in an unsteady sounding voice

Voice box The voice box, or larynx, is the portion of the respiratory tract containing the vocal cords which produce sound. It is located between the pharynx and the trachea

Void To urinate The term void is also sometimes used to indicate the elimination of solid waste

Volar Pertaining to the palm or the sole

Voluntary Done in accordance with the conscious will of the individual

Volvulus Abnormal twisting of a portion of the gastrointestinal tract, usually the intestine, which can impair blood flow

Vomer A triangular bone in the nasal septum

Vomit Matter from the stomach that has come up into and may be ejected beyond the mouth, due to the act of vomiting

Voyeurism A disorder that involves achieving sexual arousal by observing an unsuspecting and non-consenting person who is undressing or unclothed, and/or engaged in sexual activity

Vulnerar A remedy used in healing or treating wounds

Vulva The female external genital organs, including the labia, clitoris,and entrance to the vagina

Vulvar Pertaining to the vulva

Vulvitis Inflammation of the external genital organs of the female

Terminology "W"

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Waardenburg syndrome A genetic disorder that causes deafness, white forelock (a frontal white blaze of hair), a difference of color between the iris of one eye and the other (heterochromia iridis), white eye lashes, and wide-set inner corners of the eyes

Wagner syndrome A genetic condition caused by a mutation in the gene (CSPG2 on chromosome 5) encoding chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan-2, also known as versican. Versican is a substance present in the vitreous body of the eye. Symptoms and signs include changes in the vitreous body of the eye, retinal detachment, cataracts, and poor visual adaptation to dark

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia A chronic low-grade (indolent) type of lymphoma due to a malignant clone of plasma cells. These plasma cells multiply out of control, invade the bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen, and characteristically produce huge amounts of a large-sized antibody called macroglobulin or IgM. The excess IgM causes the blood to be hyperviscous (to thicken)

Walking pneumonia A lay term used to refer to atypical pneumonia and typically doesn't require bedrest or hospitalization. Pneumonia is an infection of the lung

Walleye Divergent strabismus (exotropia) in which the eye turns outward away from the nose

Wamble To move unsteadily; an unsteady motion. Or To feel nauseated; a feeling of nausea. Or (Of a stomach) To rumble or growl

Warble A small hard nodule produced by the larva of a fly that has penetrated the skin

Warburg apparatus A device used in biochemistry for measuring breathing by tissues. Tissue slices are enclosed in a chamber in which the temperature and pressure are monitored, and the amount of gas produced or consumed by the tissue is measured

Warburg's yellow enzyme A key respiratory enzyme discovered by the German biochemist Otto Heinrich Warburg (1883-1970), a pioneer in research on the respiration of cells and the metabolism of tumors. Warburg's yellow enzyme is a flavoprotein that catalyzes an oxidation-reduction reaction. This reaction is necessary for the cells to normally breathe (respire), or use oxygen

Warfarin An anticoagulant drug (brand names: Coumarin, Panwarfin, Sofarin) taken to prevent the blood from clotting and to treat blood clots and overly thick blood. Warfarin is also used to reduce the risk of clots causing strokes or heart attacks

Wart A local growth of the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) caused by a virus

Wasp sting A sting from a wasp, which can trigger allergic reactions that vary greatly in severity

Wasting Gradual loss (for example, of weight), deterioration, emaciation. As in a wasting disease

Watchful waiting Closely monitoring a patient's condition but withholding therapy until the sign and symptom appear or change. Also called observation

Water blister A blister with clear watery contents that is not purulent (does not contain pus) and is not sanguineous (does not contain blood)

Water intoxication A lowered blood concentration of sodium that occurs due to the consumption of excess water without adequate replacement of sodium, as may happen during strenuous exercise

Water on the brain Known medically as "hydrocephalus", this is an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain.The fluid is often under increased pressure and can compress and damage the brain

Water retention A nonspecific term meaning the accumulation of excess fluids in body tissues, medically known as edema

Watermelon A fruit of African origin that is, in reality, a vegetable related to cucumbers and squash. Watermelon is 92% water and 8% sugar. It is rich in lypocene, an antioxidant that gives it its characteristic color. It is fat free

Watermelon stomach Parallel red sores in the stomach that look like the stripes on a watermelon. Frequently seen with cirrhosis of the liver

Wax dip A treatment for the symptoms of joint and muscle conditions, such as arthritis, that consists of melted mineral wax derived from petroleum applied to a body area. Wax dips can be especially helpful in relieving the pain and stiffness of arthritis involving the small joints of the hands when used as a small bath

Weasand The windpipe (trachea)

Weaver syndrome An overgrowth syndrome characterized by accelerated growth and advanced bone age (evident at birth), unusual craniofacial appearance, hoarse low-pitched cry, and hypertonia (increased muscle tone) with camptodactyly (inability to fully extend the fingers). Caused by mutations in a gene called NSD1

Weaver's bottom Inflammation of the
bursa that separates the gluteus maximus muscle of the buttocks from the underlying bony prominence of the bone that a person sits on (ischial tuberosity)

Wegener's granulomatosis An uncommon type of inflammation of small arteries and veins (vasculitis) that classically involves the vessels supplying the tissues of the lungs, nasal passages (sinuses), and kidneys

Weight loss A decrease in body weight resulting from either voluntary (diet, exercise) or involuntary (illness) circumstances.

Weight Watchers A diet plan first developed in the 1960s that encourages weight loss by making healthy food and lifestyle choices

Weil syndrome A severe form of leptospirosis with liver disease

Wellen's syndrome (the widow maker) A condition characterized by specific changes in the electrocardiogram (ECG), specifically in the so-called T wave of the ECG. It is also known as LAD coronary T-wave syndrome

Welt A red bump, ridge or swelling of unbroken skin raised by a stinging blow or by an allergic reaction to foods, drugs or insect bites, as in hives (urticaria)

Werdnig-Hoffman disease (spinal muscular atrophy type 1 or SMA-1) One of the types of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) diseases. SMAs are a group of inherited diseases that are characterized by progressive weakness of the muscles and reduced muscle tone. The symptoms occur due to loss of motor neurons (nerve cells) in the spinal cord

Werner syndrome A premature aging disease that begins in adolescence or early adulthood and results in apparent old age by 30'40 years of age

Werner-His disease Also known as "adult progeria", is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder which is characterized by the appearance of premature aging. Werner syndrome is named after the German scientist Otto Werner

West Nile encephalitis A febrile disease caused by the West Nile virus that is transmitted from birds to the common Culex mosquito and then to people.The virus is named after the area it was first found in Uganda

West syndrome Infantile spasms, a seizure disorder of infancy and early childhood with the onset predominantly in the first year of life of myoclonic seizures, hypsarrhythmia (abnormal, chaotic electroencephalogram), and mental retardation

Western blot A technique in molecular biology that is used to separate and identify particular proteins

Wet brain A form of brain damage that results from repeat and heavy exposure to alcohol. Also known as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, wet brain stems from a thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency

Wet lung Also called "Progression of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)", Acute Alveolar Injury, Traumatic Wet Lungs) ARDS can be caused by an acute lung injury or severe systemic illness. The lung is damaged and a cycle of acute inflammation begins

Wezand Obsolete form of weasand

Wharton's jelly A gelatinous substance that provides insulation and protection within the umbilical cord

Wheal A raised, itchy (pruritic) area of skin that is sometimes an overt sign of allergy

Wheat weevil Also known as the grain weevil or granary weevil, occurs all over the world and is a common pest in many places. It can cause significant damage to harvested stored grains and may drastically decrease crop yields

Wheezer A slang term for a patient who is wheezing. Sometimes applied to someone having serious trouble breathing

Wheezing A whistling noise in the chest during breathing. Wheezing occurs when the airways are narrowed or compressed

Whiplash injury A hyperextension and flexion injury to the neck, often a result of being struck from behind, as by a fast-moving vehicle in a car accident

Whipple disease A form of inability to absorb nutrients from the intestine. It can affect any part of the body, leading to arthritis and then weight loss, cough, fever, diarrhea, hypotension (low blood pressure), abdominal swelling, increased skin pigmentation, and severe anemia

Whipple procedure A type of surgery that is used to treat pancreatic cancer and was devised by the US surgeon Allen Whipple. The head of the pancreas, the duodenum, a portion of the stomach, and other nearby tissues are removed

Whipworm A nematode (roundworm), also called Trichuris trichiura, that is the third most common roundworm in humans. The whipworm is found worldwide, and whipworm infections are most frequent among children and in areas with tropical weather and poor
sanitation practices

White blood cell One of the cells the body makes to help fight infections

White coat hypertension A transient increase in blood pressure (hypertension) that is triggered by the sight of medical personnel in white coats (or other attire)

White matter The part of the brain that contains myelinated nerve fibers. The white matter is white because it is the color of myelin, the insulation that covers nerve fibers

White phosphorus A waxy solid which burns easily and is used in chemical manufacturing and smoke munitions. It is also used by industry to produce phosphoric acid and other
chemicals for use in fertilizers, food additives, and cleaning compounds. Small amounts of white phosphorus were used in the past in pesticides and fireworks

White spots on the nails Very small semi-circular white spots on the nails. These spots may be found on the fingernails and, particularly, the toenails. The white spots on the nails reflect injury to the base (matrix) of the nail. The matrix is the part under the visible nail where the nail cells and the nail itself are produced

Whitehead A familiar term for what is medically called a closed comedo. A comedo, the primary sign of acne, consists of a dilated (widened) hair follicle filled with keratin squamae (skin debris), bacteria, and sebum (oil). A whitehead is a comedo that has an obstructed opening to the skin

Whitmore's disease An infectious illness, also called Whitmore's disease, that is most frequent in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia and is caused by a bacteria called Burkholderia pseudomallei found in soil, rice paddies and stagnant waters. Humans catch the disease by inhalation of contaminated dust or when soil contaminated by the bacteria comes in contact with abraded (scraped) skin

Whole-arm translocation Also called Robertsonian translocation (ROB) is a rare form of chromosomal rearrangement where the participating chromosomes break at their centromeres and the long arms fuse to form a single, large chromosome with a single
centromere

Whooping cough Also known as "pertussis," is a highly contagious, acute respiratory illness characterized by fits of coughing and caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Whooping cough, a communicable, potentially deadly illness characterized by fits of coughing followed by a noisy, "whooping" indrawn breath

Wildervanck syndrome A syndrome characterized by the combination of. congenital deafness , Duane syndrome (eye retraction), and fusion of the neck vertebrae (Klippel- Feil anomaly ). Wildervanck syndrome is limited, or almost completely limited, to females. The syndrome is probably due to polygenic inheritance with limitation to females and lethality for males

Williams syndrome A genetic disorder characterized by mild mental retardation, unique personality characteristics, unusual facial features, and cardiovascular disease. The level of calcium tends to be high in blood (hypercalcemia) and urine (hypercalciuria)

Wilms tumor A childhood form of kidney cancer with a peak age of occurrence at 3 years of age. It is sometimes associated with abnormalities of the urinary tracts or other birth defects. Some cases are related to defects in one of two genes referred to as Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1) or Wilms' tumor 2 (WT2). Symptoms can include abdominal pain, swelling, and blood in the urine

Wilson disease An inherited disorder of copper metabolism that results in an abnormal accumulation of copper in the body

Wind chill The term used to describe the rate of heat loss on the body resulting from the combined effect of low temperature and wind

Windpipe The trachea , a tube -like portion of the respiratory (breathing ) tract that connects the larynx (the voice box ) with the lungs

Wing bone Popular and familiar term for the scapula, the flat triangular bone at the back of the shoulder

Wisdom tooth One of the large molars in the very back of the jaw

Witch's milk A folk term for the milk that often comes from the breast of a newborn baby. This temporary phenomenon is due to stimulation of the baby's breasts by the mother's hormones that cross the placenta during pregnancy

Withdrawal symptoms Abnormal physical or psychological features that follow the abrupt discontinuation of a drug that has the capability of producing physical dependence

Witkop syndrome A genetic disorder characterized by the absence of several teeth at birth and abnormalities of the nails. The disorder is also known as hypodontia and nail dysgenesis

Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome Abbreviated WHS. A chromosome disorder due to partial deletion of the short (p) arm of chromosome 4. It is therefore also called the 4p-syndrome

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome A condition that is caused by an abnormality in the electrical system of the heart, which normally tells the heart muscle when to contract. Abbreviated WPW syndrome . In WPW syndrome there is an extra electrical connection inside the heart that acts as a short circuit, causing the heart to beat too rapidly and sometimes in an irregular manner

Wolfram syndrome Also called DIDMOAD (diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy, and deafness), is a rare autosomal-recessive genetic disorder that causes childhood- onset diabetes mellitus, optic
atrophy, and deafness as well as various other possible disorders

Wolframin A protein encoded by a gene known as WFS1

Wolhynia fever Also known as trench fever, a disease borne by body lice that was first recognized in the trenches of World War I, when it is estimated to have affected more than a million people in Russia and on the fronts in Europe

Womb The womb (uterus) is a hollow, pear-shaped organ located in a woman's lower abdomen between the bladder and the rectum

Womyn Woman A late 20th century feminist creation to avoid the suffix man

Word blindness A neurological disorder characterized by loss of the ability to read or understand the written word

Wordprocessor's cramp A form of focal dystonia (a state of abnormal muscle tone )caused by wordprocessing that affects the muscles of the hand and, sometimes,
the forearm

Working memory A system for temporarily storing and managing the information required to carry out complex cognitive tasks such as learning, reasoning, and comprehension

Wrist The part of the hand that is nearest the forearm and consists of the carpal bones and the associated soft tissues

Writer's cramp A dystonia that affects the muscles of the hand and sometimes the forearm and only occurs during handwriting

Wry neck A painfully twisted and tilted neck. The top of the head generally tilts to one side while the chin tilts to the other side

Terminology "T"

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T (thymine) In genetics , T stands for thymine , one member of the A- T (adenine -thymine) base pair in DNA

T cell A type of lymphocyte (a subtype of white blood cell) that plays a central role in cell-mediated immunity

T-4 cell A type of T cell that has CD4 markers on its surface and participates in the immune response by recognizing foreign antigens and secreting substances called cytokines that activate T and B cells

T-4 count A test that counts the number of T- 4 cells in the blood , usually to assess the immune status of a patient with the HIV virus (AIDS )

T-8 cells T cells that express the CD8 transmembrane glycoprotein (CD8+ T cells). They close down the immune response after invading organisms are
destroyed

T-cell depletion Treatment designed to destroy T cells, which play an important role in the immune response . Elimination of T cells from a bone marrow graft from a donor may reduce the chance of graft- versus-host disease (an immune reaction against the recipient's tissues)

T-cell leukemia A disease in which certain cells of the lymphoid system called T lymphocytes or T cells are malignant

T-cell lymphoma A disease in which cells in the lymphoid system called T cells (or T lymphocytes) become malignant

T-cell receptor A device used by T cells for recognizing specific antigens

T-helper cell A type of T cell that provides help to other cells in the immune response by recognizing foreign antigens and secreting substances called cytokines that activate T and B cells

T-suppressor cell A type of immune cells, also called CD8 cells, these cells close down the immune response after it has destroyed invading organisms

T-suppressor count A test that counts the number of T-suppressor (T-8) cells in the bloodstream. It appears that some T-8 cells secrete a substance that can kill the HIV virus, so a high count is believed to be a good indicator for people with HIV (AIDS)

t.i.d. (on prescription) Means three times a day

T1-T12 (thoracic vertebrae) The symbols T1 through T12 represent the 12 thoracic vertebrae . The thoracic vertebrae are situated between the cervical (neck) vertebrae and the lumbar vertebrae . The thoracic vertebrae provide attachment for the ribs and make up part of the back of the thorax

T4 Thyroxine, a thyroid hormone. The number 4 is sometimes in subscript

Tabes dorsalis Slowly progressive degeneration of the spinal cord that occurs in the tertiary (third) phase of syphilis a decade or more after originally contracting the infection

Table In anatomy, one of the two layers of compact bone that make up the interior and exterior walls of the cranium. They are the plates of the skull and are separated from each other by the diploe which is a soft spongy material containing bone marrow

Tablespoon An old-fashioned but convenient household measure of capacity that is equal to about 15 cc of liquid

Tablet In pharmacy, a medication, usually mixed with a binder powder, molded and pressed into the form of a tablet, traditionally circular or disk-shaped, but more recently also oblong or differently shaped

Tablet splitter A device for tablet splitting

Tablet splitting The practice of cutting tablets in half

Tabun Tabun or GA is an extremely toxic chemical substance. It is classified as a nerve agent because it fatally interferes with normal functioning of the mammalian nervous system

Tache noire Black spot (in French), a small ulcer covered with a black crust at the site of a tick bite, characteristic of several tick-borne rickettsial disease

Tachycardia A rapid heart rate, usually defined as greater than 100 beats per minute

Tachypnea Abnormally fast breathing

Tactile Having to do with touch

Tactile device A mechanical instrument that makes use of touch to help individuals who have certain disabilities, such as deaf-blindness, to communicate

Taenia In medicine, taenia is a genus of large tapeworms some of which are parasitic in humans

Taeniasis Infection with any of the tapeworms of the genus Taenia. Humans taeniasis can be caused by eating pork or beef contaminated with the larval stage of the pork tapeworm

Tag, ear A rudimentary tag of ear tissue, often containing a core of cartilage, usually located just in front of the ear (auricle). This minor
anomaly is common and harmless

Tag, skin A small tag of skin that may be squat (sessile) or on a stalk (a peduncle). Skin tags commonly occur on the eyelids, neck,armpits, upper chest, and groin

Tail The appendage that protrudes from the
buttocks of animals

Tailbone Popular name for the coccyx, the small bone at the bottom of the spine made up of 3-5 rudimentary vertebrae

Taint To poison, infect, or spoil

Takayasu arteritis Inflammation of aorta and its branches

Talc A very soft, soapy-feeling mineral that is a silicate of magnesium, sometimes with small amounts of aluminum silicate. Talc is used in making dusting powder (talcum powder), in cosmetic preparations, and as a filter aid in pharmacy

Talipes Clubfoot The foot is turned in sharply and the person seems to be walking on their ankle

Talus The ankle bone , or the ankle itself

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) An antiestrogen (a drug that blocks the effects of estrogen) which competes with estrogen for binding sites in target tissues such as breast

Tampon A pack or pad that is used to stop or collect the flow of blood or other fluids. A tampon may be made of cotton, sponge, or another material. Tampons serve in surgery to control bleeding and are used to stop severe nosebleeds. Vaginal tampons collect the flow of menstrual blood

Tamponade, balloon A procedure in which a balloon is inflated within the esophagus or stomach, to apply pressure on bleeding blood vessels, compress the vessels, and stop the bleeding. It is used in the treatment of bleeding veins in the esophagus(esophageal varices) and stomach

Tanapox A poxvirus infection common in equatorial Africa. The disease starts with mild fever for 2 to 4 days accompanied by headache and myalgia (muscle ache), followed by the eruption of one or more large red
nodules on the skin, typically on the extremities. Within several weeks there is usually complete recovery without specific therapy

Tandem mass spectrometry Multiple steps of mass spectrometry selection, with some form of fragmentation occurring in between the stages

Tandem repeat sequences Multiple copies of the same DNA base sequence on a chromosome; used as a marker in physical mapping of the chromosome

Tapazol Trade name for methimazole, an antithyroid medication

Taphephobia Fear of being buried alive

TAR syndrome (thrombocytopenia with absent
radius) is a rare genetic disorder that is characterized by the absence of the radius bone in the forearm and a dramatically reduced platelet count

Tarantism A disease once thought to result from the bite of the tarantula spider. This extraordinary affliction was associated with melancholy, stupor, madness and an
uncontrollable desire to dance

Tardive dyskinesia A neurological syndrome characterized by repetitive, involuntary, purposeless movements caused by the long-term use of certain drugs called neuroleptics used for psychiatric, gastrointestinal, and neurological disorders

Targeted radiation therapy A procedure that uses computers to create a 3-dimensional picture of the tumor in order to target the tumor as accurately as possible and give it the highest possible dose of radiation while sparing normal tissue as much as possible. It is also known as 3-D conformal (or conformational) radiation therapy

Tarsal cyst Also called a Meibomian cyst or a chalazion. A tarsal cyst is an inflammation of the oil gland of the eyelid

Tarsal tunnel syndrome A type of compression neuropathy (nerve disease due to compression of the nerve) in the ankle and foot

Tarsus Any broad flat surface. The flat of the eyelid is called the tarsus, as is the base of the heel. The bones in the heel are collectively called the bony tarsus

Tartar The hardened product of minerals from saliva and foods that accumulates in plaque around the teeth

Tassinari syndrome A form of epilepsy that emerges around the age of four. The first signs are slowed learning, and receptive and/or expressive dysphasia Absence, myoclonic, and focal seizures may be seen

Taste A perception that results from stimulation of a gustatory nerve. Taste belongs to the chemical sensing system. Tasting begins when molecules stimulate special cells in the mouth or throat. These special cells transmit messages through nerves to the brain, where specific tastes are identified

Taste bud One of the tiny, barrel-shaped endings of the gustatory nerve located around the base of the papillae (small bumps) on the tongue

Tattoo The permanent insertion of ink below the skin, using a sharp instrument

Tay-Sachs disease A genetic metabolic disorder caused by deficiency of the enzyme hexosaminidase A (hex-A) that results in a failure to process a lipid called GM2 ganglioside that accumulates in the brain and other tissues. Abbreviated TSD

TB Tuberculosis

TC-99 tetrofosmin scintimammography An imaging technique that uses a radioisotope (a
radioactive substance) to help visualize the breast and find cancer

Td Adult diphtheria and tetanus toxoids

Tear A drop of the salty secretion of the lacrimal glands which serves to moisten the conjunctiva and cornea

Tear film The liquid layer bathing the cornea and conjunctiva

Tear gland The gland that makes tears

Teaspoon An old-fashioned but convenient household measure that is equal to about 5 cc of liquid

Teething The emergence of the primary (baby) teeth through a baby or child's gums

Telangiectasia perstans A form of mastocytosis that usually affects adults, characterized by the presence of multiple hyperpigmented macules with telangiectases (visibly dilated small blood vessels), located primarily on the trunk, but also on the extremities

Telemedicine The use of medical information exchanged from one site to another via electronic communications for the health and education of the patient or healthcare
provider and for the purpose of improving patient care. Telemedicine includes consultative, diagnostic, and treatment services

Teleological Serving an ultimate purpose in its design

Teleology The study of the ultimate purpose of the design of something in nature

Telepathology The use of telecommunications technology to facilitate the transfer of image-rich pathology data between remote locations for the purposes of diagnosis, education, and research

Telesurgery Surgical procedures carried out at a distance thanks to advances in robotic and computer technology and their applications to
surgery

Telogen effluvium Excessive temporary loss of telogen hair (hair in the telogen, or resting, phase) caused by trauma such as childbirth, surgery, starvation, certain drugs, and high fever

Telomerase The enzyme that is concerned with the formation, maintenance, and renovation of telomeres, the ends of chromosomes

Telomere The end of a chromosome

Temperature The specific degree of hotness or coldness of the body

Temple The area just behind and to the side of the forehead and the eye, above the side of the zygomatic arch(cheekbone) and in front of the ear

Temporal Pertaining to time, limited in time, temporary, or transient Or Pertaining to the temple region of the head

Temporal arteritis Also called giant cell arteritis or cranial arteritis, this is a serious disease characterized by inflammation of the walls of the blood vessels (vasculitis)

Temporal bone A large irregular bone that is situated at the base and side of the skull

Temporal lobe The lobe of the cerebral hemisphere located down on the side just forward of the occipital lobe. The temporal lobe contains the auditory cortex which is responsible for hearing

Ten-day measles An acute highly contagious viral disease with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a spreading skin rash, the measles (also known as rubeola) is a potentially disastrous disease

Tendinitis Inflammation of a tendon (the tissue by which muscle attaches to bone)

Tendon The soft tissue by which muscle attaches to bone

Tendonopathy Any disease or dysfunction of a tendon

Tenesmus Straining to defecate or urinate

Tenia In medicine, tenia is a genus (group) of large tapeworms some of which are parasitic in humans. In anatomy, tenia refers to a band or a structural line and applies to several bands and lines of nervous matter in the brain

Tennis elbow Lateral epicondylitis caused by injured tendons from the muscles that attach to the outer bone of the elbow (called the lateral epicondyle), which is a part of the humerus bone

Tension The pressure within a vessel, such as blood pressure Or Stress, especially stress that is translated into clenched scalp muscles and bottled-up emotions or anxiety

Tension pneumothorax The accumulation of air under pressure in the pleural space

Tenth cranial nerve The vagus nerve that originates in the medulla oblongata, a part of the brain stem. The vagus nerve supplies nerve fibers to the pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), lungs, heart, esophagus and most of the intestinal tract (as far as the transverse portion of the colon). And the vagus nerve brings sensory information back from the ear, tongue, pharynx and larynx

Teratogen Any agent that can disturb the development of an embryo or fetus

ter in die (on prescription) Three times a day

Teratogenic Able to disturb the growth and development of an embryo or fetus

Teratoid Having the appearance or characteristics of a teratoma

Teratoma A type of germ cell tumor that may contain several different types of tissue and sometimes mature elements such as hair, muscle, and bone

Teratophobia Fear of bearing a malformed child

Teres minor muscle A muscle that assists the lifting of the arm during outward turning (external rotation)

Terminal ileitis Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestine involving only the end of the small intestine (the terminal ileum)

Termination codon A nucleotide triplet within
messenger RNA that signals a termination of translation into proteins. Proteins are based on polypeptides, which are unique sequences of amino acids. Also called stop codon.

Testes Plural of testis

Testicles The male sex glands

Testis The male sex gland, located behind the penis in a pouch of skin called the scrotum

Testosterone A male hormone , a sex hormone produced by the testes that encourages the development of male sexual characteristics, stimulates the activity of the male secondary sex characteristics, and prevents changes in them following castration

Tetanus An often fatal infectious disease that is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which usually enters the body through a puncture, a cut, or an open wound

Tetany A condition that is usually due to low blood calcium (hypocalcemia ) and is characterized by spasms of the hands and feet, cramps, spasm of the voice box (larynx), and overactive neurological reflexes.

Tetracycline A family of broad-spectrum antibiotics effective against a remarkably wide variety of organisms

Tetraethyl lead An anti-knock compound added to motor fuel. Also known as tetraethylplumbane, tetraethyl lead has highly adverse effects on human health. It causes lead poisoning

Tetrafluoroethylene A substance that is a possible carcinogen used in the production of polymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene

Tetrahydrogestrinone A "designer steroid" with anabolic properties

Tetralogy of Fallot A combination of four heart defects that are present at birth and account for about 10 percent of all congenital heart disease

Tetranucleotide A sequence of 4 base pairs

Tetrapeptide A peptide consisting of four amino acids

Thai hemorrhagic fever A syndrome due to the dengue virus that tends to affect children under 10, causing abdominal pain,hemorrhage (bleeding) and circulatory collapse (shock). Also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever

Thalassemia A group of genetic disorders that involve underproduction of hemoglobin

Thalassemia major The dire disease also known as beta thalassemia. It occurs when a child inherits two mutated genes, one from each parent. Children born with thalassemia major usually develop the symptoms of severe anemia within the first year of life. They lack the ability to produce normal, adult hemoglobin and experience chronic fatigue

Thalassemia minor Also called thalassemia trait, thalassemia minor is the carrier state for beta thalassemia. People who are carriers (heterozygotes) have just one thalassemia gene, are said to have thalassemia minor, and are essentially normal

Thalassiosira pseudonana An ocean diatom that is a major participant in the biological pumping of carbon to ocean depths and that has potential for mitigating global climate change. The DNA of this diatom is being sequenced

Thalidomide baby An infant who is affected by prenatal exposure to the drug thalidomide

Thallium A metallic element having the symbol Tl and the atomic number 81 and an atomic weight of about 204

Thanatology The study of death and dying, including the medical, psychological, and sociologic aspects of it

Thanatophobia An abnormal and excessive fear of death

Thanatophoric dysplasia A form of short-limbed (micromelic) dwarfism that usually causes death within the first few hours after birth

Thelarche The time that breast development starts in girls

Thelazia gulosa A type of worm that very rarely has been reported to infest human eyes. T. gulosa is known as the cattle eyeworm

Therapeutic Relating to therapeutics, the branch of medicine that is concerned specifically with the treatment of disease

Therapy The treatment of disease

Thermometer A device used to measure the temperature of gaseous, liquid or solid matter or of a chemical reaction such as fire

Thermophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of heat, including hot weather and hot objects

Thermostat A device that monitors temperature and automatically maintains it at certain levels. In a human, a tiny part of the brain called the hypothalamus , located behind the eyes, serves as the thermostat. It can warm the body by causing it

Thiamine Vitamin B1. Thiamine (vitamin B1) acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of the body

Thiazolidinedione A class of drugs for type 2 diabetes that lower the blood sugar by increasing the sensitivity of cells to insulin. Insulin can then move glucose from the blood into cells for energy

Thigh The thick, muscular portion of the leg that extends from the hip to the knee

Thigh bone The thigh bone in anatomy is called the "femur". It is the bone in the leg that extends from the hip to the knee

Thimerosal A mercury-containing preservative used in some vaccines and other products

Thioxanthene One of a group of drugs with antipsychotic activity which act by blocking postsynaptic receptors for dopamine (a chemical that nerves use to communicate with one another) in the brain

Third cranial nerve The oculomotor nerve is the third cranial nerve. It enters the orbit via the superior orbital fissure and innervates muscles that enable most movements of the eye and that raise the eyelid

Third degree burn A full thickness burn. This type of burn destroys the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the entire layer beneath (the dermis)

Third stage of labor The part of labor from the birth of the baby until the placenta (afterbirth) and fetal membranes are delivered. The third stage of labor is also called the placental stage

Third ventricle One cavity in a system of four communicating cavities within the brain that are continuous with the central canal that contains the spinal cord. The third ventricle is a median (midline) cavity in the brain and is bounded by the thalamus and hypothalamus on either side

Thogotovirus A viral genus of the family Orthomyxoviridae. The Thogotovirus genus contains 6 or more viruses that are associated with hard or soft ticks

Thoracentesis Removal of fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall (the pleural cavity) for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes using a needle inserted between the ribs

Thoraces Plural of thorax

Thoracic Pertaining to the chest

Thoracic aneurysm A local widening and bulging of a blood vessel (an aneurysm) within the thorax (chest)

Thoracic aorta A section of the aorta, the largest artery in the body, within the chest, it starts after the arch of the aorta and runs down to the diaphragm, the great muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen.

Thoracic cage The structure formed by the thoracic vertebrae and ribs, the sternum (breastbone), and the costal cartilages (that attach the ribs to the sternum)

Thoracic duct A vascular structure that recirculates lymph from the lymphatic circulation into the bloodstream

Thoracic outlet syndrome A condition that is due to compromise of blood vessels or nerve fibers between the armpit (axilla) and the base of the neck, because of compression by adjacent tissues

Thoracic vertebrae The 12 thoracic vertebrae are situated between the cervical (neck) vertebrae and the lumbar vertebrae. The thoracic vertebrae are represented by the symbols T1 through T12

Thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) One of the two main types of braces used to correct the lateral (sideways) curve of the spine in scoliosis

Thoracotomy An operation to open the chest, usually in order to gain access to the lungs or heart

Thorax The area of the body that is located between the abdomen and the neck. Within the thorax are the lungs, the heart, and the first section of the aorta. Also known as chest

Threonine An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein. A dietary essential amino acid, threonine is necessary for optimal growth in childhood but its exact roles in metabolism are unknown

Thrive, failure to (FTT) Refers to a child whose physical growth is significantly less than that of peers

Throat The throat is the anterior (front) portion of the neck beginning at the back of the mouth, consisting anatomically of the pharynx and larynx. The throat contains the trachea and a portion of the esophagus

Thrombectomy A procedure to remove a clot

Thrombi Plural of thrombus

Thrombin An enzyme that presides over the conversion of a substance called fibrinogen to fibrin , which promotes blood clotting

Thrombinogen Better known today as prothrombin, a coagulation (clotting) factor needed for the normal clotting of blood

Thrombocyte A platelet

Thrombocythemia An abnormally high number of platelets in the blood. Also known as thrombocytosis

Thrombocytopenia A low platelet count

Thrombocytosis A disorder in which body produces too many platelets (thrombocytes)

Thromboembolism Formation in a blood vessel of a clot (thrombus) that breaks loose and is carried by the blood stream to plug another vessel

Thrombolytic agent A drug that is able to dissolve a clot and reopen an artery or vein. Thrombolytic agents may be used to treat a heart attack, stroke, deep vein thrombosis (clot in a deep leg vein), pulmonary embolism, and occlusion of a peripheral artery or indwelling catheter

Thrombophilia The tendency to form thromboses (blood clots in arteries and veins)

Thrombophlebitis Inflammation of a vein that occurs when a blood clot forms

Thrombosis The formation or presence of a blood clot in a blood vessel

Thrombospondin One of a family of glycoproteins (carbohydrates complexed with proteins) that are made in cells, secreted by cells, and incorporated into cells including blood platelets (thrombocytes) from which they take their name

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) A life-threatening disease involving embolism and thrombosis (plugging) of the small blood vessels in the brain and kidneys and other organs. It is most commonly caused by inhibition of the enzymes ADAMTS13 which normally serves to break up a blood protein called Von Willebrand Factor into smaller pieces

Thromboxane A substance made by platelets that causes blood clotting and constriction of blood vessels. It also encourages platelet aggregation

Thromboxane A2 The active type of thromboxane. Abbreviated TXA2

Thromboxane B2 The inactive product of thromboxane. Abbreviated TXB2

Thrombus A clot in a blood vessel or within the heart

Thrush Yeast infection of the mouth and throat, characterized by patches of white, caused by the fungus Candida albicans

Thumb The short thick finger situated at an angle to the other fingers so it can be opposed to the them, making it possible to pick up and hold things

Thymine (T) One member of the base pair A-T (adenine -thymine) in DNA

Thymoglobulin A brand name for antithymocyte globulin

Thymoma A rare type of tumor that is the most common tumor type located in the area in the center of the chest between the lungs (the anterior mediastinum). Thymomas originate from epithelial cells in the thymus, a gland located behind the breast bone in the mediastinum, which is responsible for the development of many immunologic functions in early life

Thymosin One of several polypeptide hormones secreted by the thymus that control the maturation of T cells. They are derived from a polypeptide called prothymosin-alpha (PTMA) or alpha thymosin

Thymus An organ that is located in the upper chest behind the breastbone and in front of the lower neck in which the immune cells called T lymphocytes mature and multiply in early life. The thymus begins to shrink after puberty

Thyrocalcitonin A hormone, also called calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland that lowers the levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood and promotes the formation of bone

Thyroglobulin A protein that is found primarily in the thyroid gland. Some thyroglobulin can be found in the blood, and this amount may be measured after thyroid surgery to determine whether thyroid cancer has recurred. Abbreviated Tg

Thyroglossal cyst A fluid-filled sac that is present at birth and located in the midline of the neck. A thyroglossal cyst is a congenital malformation (a birth defect). It results from incomplete closure of a segment of the thyroglossal duct, a tube-like structure that normally closes as the embryo develops. Also called a thyroglossal duct cyst or a thyrolingual cyst

Thyroid The thyroid gland

Thyroid binding globulin A blood protein that binds with the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4)

Thyroid cancer Cancer of the gland in front of the neck that normally produces thyroid hormone which is important to the normal regulation of the metabolism of the body

Thyroid cartilage The largest of the cartilages of the larynx (the voice box ). The thyroid cartilage is formed of two approximately quadrilateral plates (called laminae) that are joined anteriorly (in the front) at an angle of from 90° to 120° to create a prominence in the neck

Thyroid hormone A chemical substance made by the thyroid gland for export into the bloodstream

Thyroid hormone receptor A molecule that receives a thyroid hormone and permits it to dock on the nuclear membrane of a cell

Thyroid stimulating hormone A hormone produced by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain in response to signals from the hypothalamus gland in the brain

Thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) A form of immunoglobulin G (IgG) that can bind to thyrotropin (TSH) receptors on the thyroid gland

Thyroid storm A severe, life-threatening condition caused by an excess of thyroid hormone

Thyroidectomy Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland

Thyroiditis Inflammation of the thyroid gland which is located in front of the neck

Thyroplasty A surgical technique designed to improve the voice by altering the cartilages of the larynx (the voice box ), which houses the vocal folds (the vocal cords) in order to change the position or length of the vocal folds

Thyrotropin A hormone produced by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain in response to signals from the hypothalamus gland in the brain

Thyroxine The main hormone secreted into the bloodstream by the thyroid gland. It plays vital roles in digestion, heart and muscle function, brain development and maintenance of bones

Tibia The larger of the two long bones in the lower leg. The tibia is familiarly known as the shinbone

Tibia vara A condition that is characterized by disturbance of normal growth in the inner part of the upper tibia. Tibia vara causes a bowlegged gait and can impair the knees significantly

Tibial bowing Improper growth of the tibia in the leg, causing bowlegs or other leg problems. The tibia may bow anteriorly or posteriorly

Tic A repetitive movement that is difficult, if not impossible to voluntarily control . Tics can affect any group of muscles. The most common are facial tics, such as eye - blinking, nose -twitching , or grimacing

Tic douloureux A synonym for trigeminal neuralgia, a painful tic

Tick A small wingless bloodsucking insect that, along with the mite, belongs to the order Acarina

Tick bite A bite from a bloodsucking, parasitic insect that punctures the skin with a sharp beak. The tic burrows into the skin with its head

Tick typhus Also known as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, an acute febrile (feverish) disease initially recognized in the Rocky Mountain states, caused by Rickettsia rickettsii transmitted by hard-shelled (ixodid) ticks. Occurs only in the Western Hemisphere

Tilted disc syndrome (Fuch's Coloboma) A congenital abnormality (birth defect) of the eye that causes the optic nerve to enter the retina (this area is called the optic disc) at an abnormal angle

Timothy syndrome A rare disorder that affects many parts of the body including the heart, digits (fingers and toes), and the nervous system. It is characterized by a heart condition called long QT syndrome, which causes the cardiac muscle to take longer than usual to recharge between beats

Tinea barbae A fungal infection (known as ringworm) of the bearded area of the face and neck, with swelling and marked crusting, often with itching

Tinea capitis A fungal infection of the scalp. This disorder occurs most commonly in children, especially those in late childhood and adolescence. It appears as scalp scaling associated with bald spots

Tinea cruris A superficial fungus infection of the crotch and perineum known popularly as jock itch

Tinea incognito Tinea corporis that has been modified by the application of high-potency topical steroids in a way that renders it no longer typical in appearance and makes it difficult to diagnose

Tinea unguium The most common fungus infection of the nails, also called onychomycosis. Onychomycosis makes the nails look white and opaque, thickened, and
brittle

Tinel's sign The sign that a nerve is irritated

Tinnitus Ringing in the ears

Tipped uterus A slight to dramatic placement of the uterus that orients it toward the back

Tired A feeling of a lessened capacity for work and reduced efficiency of accomplishment, usually accompanied by a sense of weariness and fatigue

Tissue A group or layer of cells that perform specific functions

Titer The concentration of a substance in a fluid, such as the concentration of an antibody in blood

Titin A giant filamentous protein essential to the structure, development, and elasticity of muscle

Titre Variant spelling of "titer"

TLR4 Toll-like receptor 4

TLSO Thoracolumbosacral orthosis. This is one of two main types of braces used to correct the lateral (sideways) curve of the spine in scoliosis

Toasted skin syndrome A popular term for a hyperpigmented skin rash that appears after exposure to heat, such as from heating pad use or from holding a laptop computer on the thighs while working

Tobacco A South American herb (Nicotiana tabacum) whose leaves contain 2 to 8 percent nicotine and serve as the source of both smoking and smokeless tobacco and the basis of great health hazards

Tocolysis The slowing or halting of labor during the birth process

Tocolytic Relating to the inhibition, delaying, or halting of labor

Tocolytic agent A medication that can inhibit labor, slow down or halt the contractions of the uterus. Tocolytic agents are widely used today to treat premature labor and permit pregnancy to proceed and so permit the fetus to gain in size and maturity before being born

Tocophobia Fear of childbirth

Tocus Labor, childbirth

Toddler A young child who is learning to walk with short unsteady steps

Tolerance A state in which a T cell can no longer respond to antigen. The T cell "tolerates" the antigen. Also called immune tolerance

Toll receptor One of a family of receptors that provide a critical link between immune stimulants produced by microorganisms and the initiation of the host defense

Toluidine A chemical compound implicated, along with aniline, in the causation of bladder cancer

Tomogram A radiograph (x-ray) of a selected layer of the body made by tomography. A tomogram is a two-dimensional image representing a slice or section through a three-dimensional object

Tomograph The apparatus for generating a tomogram , a two- dimensional image of a slice or section through a three-dimensional object

Tomography The process for generating a tomogram

Tone deafness The inability to recognize musical tones or reproduce them. Also called amusia

Tongue The fleshy muscular organ in the mouth of a mammal, used for tasting, licking,swallowing, and (in humans) articulating speech

Tonometry A standard eye test that is done to determine the fluid pressure inside the eye

Tonotopic Pertaining to the spatial arrangement of where sound is perceived, transmitted, or received

Tonotopy The spatial arrangement of where sound is perceived, transmitted, or received. There is tonotopy in the cochlea, the small snail-like structure in the inner ear that sends information about sound to the brain.There is also tonotopy in the human auditory cortex , that part of the brain that receives and interprets sound information

Tonsil stone A tiny stone (calculus) in the tonsils

Tonsillectomy The surgical removal of both tonsils

Tonsillitis Inflammation of one or both tonsils, typically as a result of infection by a virus or bacteria

Tonsillolith A tiny stone (calculus) in the tonsils. Such stones are found within little pockets (crypts) in the tonsils. These pockets typically form in chronic recurrent tonsillitis, and they harbor bacteria. Tonsilloliths are foul
smelling because they tend to contain high quantities of sulfur compounds

Tonsils Small masses of lymphoid tissue at the back and on both sides of the throat

Tooth One of the structures within the mouth that allow for biting and chewing

Tooth erosion The gradual loss of the normally hard surface of the tooth due to chemical, not bacterial, processes

Tophaceous gout A chronic form of gout. Nodular masses of uric acid crystals (tophi) are deposited in different soft tissue areas of the body

Tophi Plural of tophus

Tophus A nodular mass of uric acid crystals. Tophi are characteristically deposited in different soft tissue areas of the body in chronic (tophaceous) gout

Topical Pertaining to a particular surface area

Topical chemotherapy Treatment with an anticancer drug in a lotion, ointment or cream that is applied to the skin

Topoisomerase A class of enzymes that alter the supercoiling of double-stranded DNA

Torpor Sluggishness, dullness, languor, lassitude , stupor, torpidity

Torsion dystonia Also known as dystonia musculorum deformans, is a disease characterized by painful muscle contractions resulting in uncontrollable distortions. This specific type of dystonia is frequently found in children, with symptoms starting around the ages of 11 or 12

Torticollis A painfully twisted and tilted neck.
The top of the head generally tilts to one side while the chin tilts to the other side. This condition can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired. It can also be the result of damage to the neck muscles or blood supply

Torture The action or practice of inflicting severe pain on someone as a punishment or in order to force them to do or say something

Torus fracture A fracture in which one side of a bone bends but does not actually break. Torus fractures normally heal on their own within a month, with rest and disuse. Also known as incomplete fracture or buckle fracture

Total hip replacement Surgery in which the diseased ball and socket of the hip joint are completely removed and replaced with artificial materials

Total hysterectomy Complete surgical removal of the uterus including the cervix

Total knee replacement A surgical procedure in which damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artifical parts

Total laryngectomy A surgical procedure in which the whole voice box is removed, and the stoma opening into the larynx is permanent

Totipotent Having unlimited capability

Tourette syndrome A tic disorder characterized by the presence of chronic vocal and motor tics, probably based on differences in or damage to the basal ganglia of the brain

Toxaphene A chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticide banned for all uses in the US due to concerns of toxicity. Breathing, eating, or drinking high levels of toxaphene can damage the lungs, nervous system, and kidneys, and can even cause death

Toxemia Blood poisoning resulting from the presence of toxins, as bacterial toxins, in the blood

Toxic hepatitis Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) caused by an industrial chemical such as carbon tetrachloride or phosphorus

Toxic multinodular goiter A condition in which the thyroid gland contains multiple lumps that are overactive and produce excess thyroid hormones. Also known as Parry disease and Plummer disease

Toxic shock syndrome A grave condition occurring predominantly in menstruating women using tampons, toxic shock is characterized by a highly toxic state (with sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aching) followed by low blood pressure (hypotension) which can lead to shock (and death)

Toxicity The degree to which a substance (a toxin or poison) can harm humans or animals

Toxicogenomics The collection, interpretation, and storage of information about gene and protein activity in order to identify toxic substances in the environment, and to help treat people at the greatest risk of diseases caused by environmental pollutants or toxicants

Toxicology The study of the nature, effects, and detection of poisons (toxins) and the treatment of poisoning

Toxin A poison produced by certain animals, plants, or bacteria

Toxoplasmosis (toxo) An infection caused by a single-celled parasite named Toxoplasma gondii that may invade tissues and damage the brain, especially of the fetus and newborn

Trabecula A partition which divides or partly divides a cavity

Trachea A tube-like portion of the respiratory tract that connects the larynx with the bronchial parts of the lungs. Also known as windpipe

Trachelectomy Surgical removal of the cervix, the lower portion of the uterus that protrudes into the vagina

Tracheoesophageal puncture A small opening that is made by a surgeon between the esophagus and the trachea. A valve is inserted to keep food out of the trachea but allow air into the esophagus to permit tracheoesophageal speech

Tracheostomy Surgery to create an opening (stoma) into the windpipe. The opening itself may also be called a tracheostomy

Tracheostomy button A small plastic tube that is placed in the opening (stoma) of a tracheostomy to keep it open

Tracheostomy tube A small metal or plastic tube that keeps the stoma (opening) and the trachea in a tracheostomy open. Also known as a trach tube

Trachoma A chronic inflammatory disease of the eye and the leading cause of blindness

Traction In medicine, a procedure for manually pulling a part of the body to a beneficial effect

Trait Any genetically determined characteristic

Tranquilizer In pharmacology, a drug
that calms and relieves anxiety

Trans fat An unhealthy substance, also known as trans fatty acid, made through the chemical process of hydrogenation of oils

Transcranial Through the cranium

Transcription Making an RNA copy from a sequence of DNA

Transcription factor A protein that controls when genes are switched on or off -- whether genes are transcribed or not. Transcription factors bind to regulatory regions in the genome and help control gene expression

Transcriptome The complete set of RNA transcripts produced by the genome at any one time. The transcriptome is dynamic and changes under different circumstances due to different patterns of gene expression

Transcriptomics The study of the transcriptome , the complete set of RNA transcripts produced by the genome at any one time

Transdifferentiation The change of a cell or tissue from one differentiated state to another

Transducer An instrument that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. A transducer can also act as a transmitter and receiver of ultrasound information

Transfer RNA (tRNA) A class of RNA that has triplet nucleotide sequence complementary to the triplet nucleotide coding sequences of messenger RNA (mRNA). The role of tRNAs is to bond with amino acids and transfer them to the ribosomes, where proteins are assembled according to the genetic code carried by mRNA

Transvestism Dressing in the clothing of the opposite sexTransvestite A person who dresses in the clothing of the opposite sex

TRAP sequence Twin-reversed arterial perfusion sequence.TRAP sequence, sometimes referred to as TRAP syndrome, is a condition that occurs only in identical twin pregnancies that share a placenta (known as monochorionic twins). In this condition, one twin is typically healthy, while the other has a serious condition that prevents it from surviving on its own, such as a missing heart (acardiac fetus) or head (anencephaly)

Trauma A physical or emotional injury

Traumatic alopecia Hair loss caused by injury to the scalp

Traumatic asphyxia A medical emergency that result in the loss of the ability to breathe brought on by intense compression of the chest. This leads to back-flow of blood from the right side of the heart into the veins of the neck and brain. Traumatic asphyxia is also known as Perte’s syndrome

Traumatology The branch of surgery that deals with injured patients, usually on an emergency basis

Treacle A medicinal compound once in wide use as an antidote to poisons

Treadmill A machine with a moving strip on which one walks without moving forward

Tremor An abnormal, repetitive shaking movement of the body

Trench fever A highly contagious rickettsial disease transmitted by lice, that infested soldiers in the trenches in the First World War

Triage The assignment of degrees of urgency to wounds or illnesses to decide the order of treatment of a large number of patients or casualties

Triceps The muscle that extends (straightens) the forearm

Trichina spiralis A parasitic worm that lives in the intestines and causes a serious illness known as trichinosis

Trichinellosis A disease that comes from eating raw or undercooked pork or wild game that is infected with the larvae of a worm called Trichinella. The disease is also called trichinosis

Trichloroethylene A possible carcinogenic (cancer-causing) compound used mainly as a degreaser for metal parts. Trichloroethylene was also at one time used to decaffeinate coffee and as an anesthetic

Trichobezoar A wad of swallowed hair. Also called a hairball. Trichobezoars can sometimes be found to cause blockage of the digestive system, especially at the exit of the stomach

Trichoepithelioma A small benign tumor derived from basal cells in the hair follicle

Trichomonas A single-celled protozoan parasite best known in medicine because one species causes vaginitis (vaginal inflammation)

Trichomoniasis Infection with trichomonas, in humans with Trichomonas vaginalis

Trichotillomania Compulsive hair pulling. An impulse control disorder characterized by the repeated urge to pull out scalp hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, or other body hair

Trichuriasis Infection with the human whipworm, a nematode (roundworm) formally known as Trichuris trichiura .The third most common round worm of humans

Tricuspid Having three flaps or cusps

Tricuspid valve One of the four heart valves , the first one that blood encounters as it enters the heart. The tricuspid valve stands between the right atrium and the right ventricle , and it allows blood to flow only from the atrium into the ventricle

Trigeminal nerve The chief nerve of sensation for the face, which is also the motor nerve that controls the muscles used for chewing

Trigeminal neuralgia Also called tic douloureux. Inflammation of the trigeminal nerve (the fifth cranial nerve) that most commonly causes paroxysms of very intense lightning pain in the areas of the face the nerve supplies -- the lips, eye, nose, scalp, forehead, gums, cheek, and chin -- on the involved side of the face

Trigger Something that either sets off a disease in people who are genetically predisposed to developing the disease, or that causes a certain symptom to occur in a person who has a disease

Triglycerides The major form of fat stored by the body. A triglyceride consists of three molecules of fatty acid combined with a molecule of the alcohol glycerol. Triglycerides serve as the backbone of many types of lipids
(fats). Triglycerides come from the food we eat as well as from being produced by the body

Triiodothyronine A hormone that is made by the thyroid gland . Triiodothyronine has three iodine molecules attached to its molecular structure. It is the most powerful thyroid hormone, and it affects almost every process in the body, including body temperature, growth, and heart rate

Trimester In obstetrics, one of the three divisions of three months each during pregnancy, in which different phases of fetal development take place

Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) A compound produced by bacteria in the stomach that appears to correlate with risk of heart disease. TMAO is produced in the body from egg yolks and red meat. It affects the body's metabolism of cholesterol, leading to enhanced development of plaque on blood vessel walls, and can increase risk of heart disease

Trimethylaminuria (TMA) An inborn error of metabolism associated with an offensive body odor, the smell of rotting fish, due to the excessive excretion of TMA in urine, sweat, and breath

Trimox also called amoxycillin, is an antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. It is the first line treatment for middle ear infections

Trinucleotide A sequence of 3 base pairs, a triplet of bases

Trip Street name for alpha-ethyltryptamine and for LSD

Tripeptide A peptide consisting of three amino acids

Triphalangeal Having three phalanges in a digit normally composed of only two

Triple C's Street name for dextromethorphan (DXM)

Triplet One of three, as One of three babies in a multiple birth. Or three animals gestated together

Triptan A class of drugs introduced in the 1990s for the treatment of migraine that act as agonists for 5- hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptors. The triptans are often very effective in relieving migraine but do not prevent future attacks or lessen their frequency

Triskaidekaphobia Fear of the number 13

Trismus Inability to open the mouth fully due to spasm of the jaw muscles and be a symptom of tetanus (lockjaw). Or it may be due to abnormally short jaw muscles

Trisomy The presence of three copies of a chromosome rather than the normal two

Tritiated Containing atoms of tritium (hydrogen-3) in the place of hydrogen (H) in a molecule

Tritium Hydrogen-3, an isotope of hydrogen

Trocar A sharply pointed shaft, usually with a three-sided point

Trochanter One of the bony prominences toward the near end of the thighbone (the femur)

Troche A small medicated lozenge designed to dissolve (to soothe the throat as a cough drop)

Trochlear nerve The nerve that controls the superior oblique muscle of the eye, one of the muscles that move the eye

True cramp A cramp that involves part or all of a single muscle or group of muscles that usually act together

True rib One of the first 7 pairs of ribs

Truncate To shorten, to cut short. A malformation (birth defect) may truncate a limb. A mutation may create a stop codon that truncates a protein

Truncation The act of truncating, cutting short

Tryptophan An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein. A dietary essential amino acid,tryptophan is necessary for optimal growth of children

TSH receptor The receptor for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which is also called thyrotropin. Encoded by a gene on chromosome 14q, TSHR is largest of all known glycoprotein hormone receptors. It is one of the primary antigens in autoimmune thyroid disease

Tsutsugamushi disease A mite-borne infectious disease caused by a microorganism, Rickettsia tsutsugamushi, characteristically with fever, headache, a raised (macular) rash, swollen glands (lymphadenopathy) and a dark crusted ulcer (called an eschar or tache noire) at the site of the chigger (mite larva) bite

Tubal pregnancy A pregnancy that is not in the usual place within the uterus but is located in the Fallopian tube. Tubal pregnancies are due to the inability of the fertilized egg to make its way through the Fallopian tube into the uterus

Tuber A lump or bump

Tubercle A small tuber; a small lump or bump

Tuberculin A protein extracted from Mycobacterium tuberculosis that is used in a skin test to determine if a person has been exposed to tuberculosis

Tuberculosis A highly contagious infection caused by the bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Tuberculous Pertaining to tuberculosis. Affected by tuberculosis

Tuberculous diskitis A tuberculosis infection of the spine that is seen most often in children. The main symptom is back pain

Tubular vision A centrally constricted field of vision that is like what you can see through a tube. Also called tunnel
vision

Tubule A small tube

Tularemia A bacterial disease that is caused by infection with the bacterium Francisella tularensis, which lives in
wild and domestic animals, most often rabbits, and can be transmitted to humans via contact with animal tissues, fleas, deerflies, or ticks

Tumescent Swelling or slightly swollen

Tumescent liposuction A form of liposuction in which several quarts of a solution are pumped below the skin in the area from which fat is to be suctioned

Tumor An abnormal mass of tissue.

Tunica albuginea The whitish membrane within the penis that surrounds the spongy chambers

Turbinate A bone in the nose that is situated along the side wall of the nose and is covered by mucous membrane

Turbinectomy Removal of a turbinate bone

Turf toe An injury to the big toe due to forced hyperextension (upward bending back) of the toe

Turgor The degree of elasticity of skin,
sometimes referred to as skin turgor

Turner syndrome The most common sex chromosome disorder in females, characterized by short stature, webbed neck, broad shield-like chest,
wide-spaced nipples, increased carrying angle at the elbow (cubitus valgus), short fourth finger, and malformations of the heart and aorta

Twelfth cranial nerve The hypoglossal nerve . The twelve cranial nerves , including the hypoglossal nerve, emerge from or enter the skull (the cranium). The hypoglossal nerve supplies the muscles of the tongue

Twenty-twenty Typically considered normal vision. The ability to identify a symbol that subtends an angle of 5 minutes of arc, and score 20/20 on the standard Snellen eye chart named after its inventor. It is usually read while standing a distance of 20 feet from it

Twilight sleep A term applied to the combination of analgesia (pain relief) and amnesia (loss of memory) produced by a mixture of morphine and scopolamine ("scope") given by a hypodermic injection (an injection under the skin)

Twin One of two children produced in the same pregnancy

Twitch An involuntary contraction of a group of muscles, also known as a fasciculation

Tylosis A callus or thickening

Tympanic Pertaining to the tympanum (the eardrum)

Tympanic cavity The major portion of the middle ear , consisting of a narrow air-filled cavity in the temporal bone that contains the bones of the middle ear

Tympanic membrane (eardrum) The eardrum , a thin membrane that serves as a partition between the external ear and the middle ear and transmits the motion of sound waves to the chain of bones in the middle ear

Tympanites A distension of the abdomen caused by accumulation of gas in the intestinal tract or peritoneal cavity

Tympanometry A test that measures the function of the middle ear . Tympanometry works by varying the pressure within the ear canal and measuring the movement of the eardrum

Tympanoplasty A surgical operation to correct damage to the middle ear and restore the integrity of the eardrum

Tympanum The cavity of the middle ear , which is separated from the outer ear by the eardrum

Tympany A hollow drum-like sound that is produced when a gas-containing cavity is tapped sharply.Tympany is heard if the chest contains free air (pneumothorax) or the abdomen is distended with gas. Also known as tympanites

Type I error The statistical error (said to be "of the first kind" or alpha error) made in testing an hypothesis when it is concluded that a treatment or intervention is effective when it really is not. Sometimes referred to as a false positive

Type II error The statistical error (said to be "of the second kind" or beta error) made in testing an hypothesis when it is concluded that a treatment or intervention is not effective when it really is. Sometimes referred to as a false negative

Typhoid fever A type of enteric fever along with paratyphoid fever. The cause is the bacterium Salmonella typhi, also known as Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi, growing in the intestines and blood. Typhoid is spread by eating or drinking food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person

Typhoon A regionally specific name for a strong tropical cyclone in the Northwest Pacific Ocean west of the dateline

Typhus One of a group of acute infections caused by rickettsiae, transmitted by arthropods (lice, fleas, mites), and characterized by severe headache, chills, high fever, stupor, and a rash

Tyrosine An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein. A nonessential amino acid, tyrosine is produced from another amino acid,
phenylalanine

Tyrosinemia A genetic disorder involving the metabolism of the amino acid tyrosine characterized by abnormally high levels of tyrosine in blood (hypertyrosinemia) and urine (tyrosinuria)

Terminology 'S'

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SA node The SA node (SA stands for sinoatrial) is one of the major elements in the cardiac conduction system, the system that controls the heart rate

Sabulous Sandy or gritty

Saccade Abrupt rapid small movements of both eyes, such as when the eyes scan a line of print

Saccharin An artificial sweetener which diluted in water is 200-700 times sweeter than the sugar sucrose

Saccular Being like a small pouch

Saccular aneurysm An aneurysm that resembles a small sack

Sacral Referring to the sacrum

Sacral vertebrae A large, triangular bone at the base of the spine , that forms by the fusing of sacral vertebrae S1–S5 between 18 and 30 years of age

Sacrococcygeal Pertaining to both the sacrum and coccyx (the tailbone)

Sacrum The large heavy bone at the base of the spine, which is made up of fused sacral vertebrae. The sacrum is located in the vertebral column, between the lumbar vertebrae and the coccyx

Saddle gall A sore on a horse caused by an ill-fitting saddle

Saddle sore Sore from riding on a saddle such as on a horse or bike

Safe sex Sexual practices that do not involve the exchange of bodily fluids, including blood, sperm, vaginal secretions, and saliva, to avoid AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases

Saffron An extremely costly yellow spice derived from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus)

Sagittal A vertical plane passing through the standing body from front to back

Sagittal sinus A large vein that runs on the top of the skull from front to back and then splits to carry blood from the brain toward the heart

Salaam In a medical context, a seizure that looks like a sudden deep bow from the waist

Salabrasion A technique in which salt or a salt solution is used to abrade the skin

Salicylic acid A substance obtained from plants (white willow back and wintergreen leaves) and also synthesized which is versatile and possesses bacteriostatic, fungicidal, and keratolytic actions

Salient Standing out

Saline A salt solution, often adjusted to the normal salinity of the human body

Saliva A watery secretion in the mouth produced by the salivary glands that aids in the digestion of food

Salivary gland A gland in the mouth that produces saliva

Salmonella A group of bacteria that cause typhoid fever and a number of other illnesses, including food poisoning, gastroenteritis and enteric fever from contaminated food products

Salmonellosis Infection with bacteria belonging to the genus Salmonella

Salpingo-oophorectomy Removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries

Salt In medicine, salt usually refers to sodium chloride, table salt, used for
seasoning food, for the preservation of meat

Salubrious Good for the health

Salutary Healthful.Promoting health or well-being; wholesome

Salvage chemotherapy Chemotherapy given after recurrence of a tumor

Salvage radiotherapy Radiation treatment given after recurrence of a tumor

Salvage therapy A final treatment for people who are not responsive to or cannot tolerate other available therapies for a particular condition

Sand-blind Partly blind, semi-blind, half-blind

Sandfly fever An acute mild viral disease characterized by fever, malaise, eye pain, and headache occurring mainly during the warm weather in many parts of the world. It is caused by Phleboviruses and is transmitted by sandflies

Sandhoff disease A rare, inherited lipid storage disorder that progressively destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme beta-hexosaminidase, which results in the harmful
accumulation of certain fats (lipids) in the brain and other organs of the body

Sanfilippo syndrome A rare disease in which the body is missing or does not have enough of certain enzymes needed to break down long chains of sugar molecules

Sanger Centre A celebrated genetics research center in the UK where much of the human genome sequencing took place

Sanguine Having a ruddy (reddish) complexion or Cheerful, hopeful, confident, and optimistic; impulsive

Saphenous vein The saphenous veins. There are two, the great and the small saphenous veins - serve as the principal veins running superficially (near the surface) up the leg

SAPHO syndrome A chronic disorder that involves the skin, bone, and joints. SAPHO is an acronym for the combination of synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis

Sapovirus A virus, formerly called "Sapporo-like virus" (SLV) and sometimes referred to as classic or typical calicivirus, which can cause acute gastroenteritis

Sapphism Female homosexuality

Sarcoidosis A disease of unknown origin that causes small lumps (granulomas) due to chronic inflammation in body tissues

Sarcoma One of a group of tumors usually arising from connective tissue

Sarcoma botryoides A malignancy of the cervix, vagina, or bladder in infants and young children that arises from embryonal rhabdomyoblasts (ancestral muscle cells)

SARS Severe acute respiratory syndrome. A severe form of pneumonia caused by the coronavirus

Sartorius muscle The long band of muscle that stretches from the calf to the pelvis. It moves the thigh and, by extension, the leg

Satellite DNA DNA that contains many tandem (not inverted) repeats of a short basic repeating unit

Saturated fat Fat that contains only saturated fatty acids, is solid at room temperature, and comes chiefly from animal food products

Sawbones Slang for a physician, especially a surgeon, and in particular an orthopedic surgeon

Scabicide A medication used to treat scabies

Scabies Infestation of the skin by the human itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei.The initial symptom of scabies are red, raised bumps that are intensely itchy

Scaffold In genetics , the chromosome structure consisting entirely of nonhistone proteins remaining after all the DNA and histone proteins have been removed from a chromosome

Scalded skin syndrome Potentially serious side effect of infection with Staphylococcus bacteria that produces a specific protein which loosens the "cement" holding thevarious layers of the skin together. This allows blister formation and sloughing of the top layer of skin

Scaling Abnormal shedding or accumulation of an upper layer of skin

Scan The data or image obtained from the examination of organs or regions of the body by gathering information with a sensing device

Scapula The shoulder blade or wingbone, the familiar flat triangular bone at the back of the shoulder

Scarification The making of many small, superficial scratches in the skin

Scarlatina Also called scarlet fever, a disease caused by infection with group A streptococcal bacteria that occurs in a small proportion of people with strep throat

Scarlet fever A skin condition that is due to a streptococcal sore throat or any other streptococcal infection

Schadenfreude Pleasure from the misfortune of others

Scheuerm Scheuermann's ann's disease A skeletal disease that usually begins in adolescence in which the vertebrae grow unevenly, resulting in wedge-shaped vertebrae and a hunched back

Schistosoma haematobium A species of trematode worm that parasitizes humans and causes urinary tract disease including bladder cancer

Schistosoma japonicum A species of trematode worm that parasitizes humans and that (like S. mansoni) causes liver and gastrointestinal tract disease

Schistosoma mansoni A species of trematode worm that parasitizes humans and that (like S. japonicum) causes liver and gastrointestinal tract disease

Schistosome A parasitic trematode worm contracted from infested water that is capable of causing liver,gastrointestinal tract and bladder disease

Schistosomiasis Diseases of liver , gastrointestinal tract and bladder caused by schistosomes, trematode worms that parasitize people. Infection is from infested water

Schizencephaly A developmental disorder of the brain characterized by abnormal slits, or clefts, in the cerebral hemispheres Schizencephaly is a form of porencephaly

Schizoaffective disorder A mood disorder that is coupled with some symptoms that resemble those of schizophrenia, particularly loss of personality (flat affect) and social withdrawal

Schizoid Having symptoms similar to those of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia A mental disorder characterized by abnormal social behavior and failure to understand reality.Common symptoms include false beliefs, unclear or confused thinking, hearing voices that others do not, reduced social engagement and emotional expression, and a lack of motivation

Schizotypal personality disorder A type of personality characterized by unusual patterns of speech and behavior and by social withdrawal

Schmorl's node An upward and downward protrusion of a spinal disk's soft tissue into the bony tissue of the adjacent vertebrae

Schonlein-Henoch purpura A form of blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis) that typically affects small arterial vessels (capillaries) in the skin, kidneys, and intestinal tract

Schwannoma A tumor of the tissue that surrounds nerves of the peripheral nervous system, medically known as the nerve sheath

Schwartz-Jampel syndrome A syndrome characterized by short stature, blepharophimosis (horizontal narrowing of the eye slits), joint limitation, and myotonia
(prolonged muscle contractions with a delay in relaxation)

Sciatic nerve The largest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve begins from nerve roots in the lumbar part of the spinal cord (in the low back) and extends through the buttock area to send nerve endings down to the legs

Sciatica Pain that results from irritation of the sciatic nerve and typically radiates from the buttock to the back of the thigh

Scintigraphy A diagnostic test in which a two-dimensional picture of a body radiation source is obtained through the use of radioisotopes

Scintimammography A scintigraphic imaging technique that uses the radioisotope technetium tetrofosmin (Tc-99 tetrofosmin) to search for breast cancer

Sclera The tough white outer coat over the eyeball that covers approximately the posterior five-sixths of its surface. The sclera is continuous in the front of the eye with the cornea and in the back of the eye with the external sheath of the optic nerve

Scleredema A dermatologic disorder characterized by hardening and thickening of the skin, typically over the face, neck, upper back, and shoulders or other areas of skin, but not over the hands or feet

Scleredema adultorum A misleading term since scleredema can also occur in children

Sclerencephaly Scarring and shrinkage of the substance of the brain. Sclerencephaly occurs because of chronic inflammation of the brain
matter

Scleritis Inflammation of the sclera. Scleritis causes local pain and can cause vision loss

Scleroconjunctival Pertaining to both the sclera and the conjunctiva

Sclerodactyly Localized thickening and tightness of the skin of the fingers or toes. Sclerodactyly is commonly associated with atrophy of the underlying soft tissues

Scleroderma A disease of connective tissue that causes scar tissue (fibrosis) to form in the skin and sometimes also in other organs of the body

Sclerokeratitis Inflammation of the sclera

Scleromalacia Degenerative thinning of the sclera

Sclerose en plaques French for multiple sclerosis

Sclerosis Localized hardening of skin, due to
diabetes and scleroderma

Sclerotherapy The injection of a chemical irritant into a vein to sclerose (harden) it

SCN (severe congenital neutropenia) A condition characterized by a lack of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that is important in fighting infection

Scoliosis Lateral (sideways) curving of the spine. The degree of scoliosis may range from mild to severe

Scooter injury An injury sustained on a scooter, a foot-operated board mounted tandemly on two wheels with an upright steering handle attached to the front wheel

Scopolamine A naturally occurring member of a large chemical class of compounds called alkaloids

Scorbutic Pertaining to scurvy (scorbutus ) or affected by it

Scorbutus A disease caused by a lack of vitamin C and characterized by spongy gums, loosening of the teeth, and bleeding into the skin and mucous membranes

Scrape An abrasion or cut caused by something rubbing roughly against the skin

Screening mammogram A mammogram (an X-ray of the breast) in women who have no signs of breast cancer. It usually involves two X-rays of each breast. The aim of a screening mammogram is to detect a tumor that cannot be felt

Script An informal colloquial term for a prescription

Scrofula An old term for tuberculosis of the lymph nodes in the neck. Also known as the King's evil

Scrofulous Relating to scrofula (tuberculosis (or TB like bacteria) of the lymph nodes, particularly of the neck)

Scrotum The pouch of skin that contains the testes, epididymides, and lower portions of the spermatic cords

Scrub To wash the hands and forearms very thoroughly, as before engaging in surgery

Scrub typhus A mite-borne infectious disease caused by a microorganism, Rickettsia tsutsugamushi, characteristically with fever, headache, a raised (macular) rash, swollen glands (lymphadenopathy) and a dark crusted ulcer (called an eschar or tache noire) at the site of the chigger (mite larva) bite

Scuba health Common medical problems in scuba diving include cuts, scrapes and other injuries to the arms and legs and pain in the ear (the "squeezes") due to the difference in pressure between the middle ear and mask during the descent into the water

Scurvy A disorder that is caused by lack of vitamin C. Symptoms include anemia; soft, bleeding gums; and bumps under the skin near muscles

Scutellaria barbata A Chinese herb that belongs to a group of herbs named Scutellaria (scullcap or skullcap). It is related to mint. Both the root and the above-ground part of
Scutellaria barbata have been used to make herbal medicines

Sea poisoning An intensely itchy rash due to contact with the tiny thimble jellyfish (Linuche unguiculata)

Seabather's itch An intensely itchy rash due to contact with the tiny thimble jellyfish (Linuche unguiculata)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that tends to occur as the days grow shorter in the fall and winter

Sebaceous cyst A rounded swollen area of the skin formed by an abnormal sac of retained excretion (sebum) from the sebaceous follicles

Sebaceous gland A normal gland of the skin which empties an oily secretion into the hair follicle near the surface of the skin

Seborrhea A chronic inflammatory disease of the skin characterized by the accumulation of scales of greasy skin. There may be yellow crusted plaques that are itchy. Seborrhea often affects the scalp. Other sites include the face, ears, eyebrows and eyelids, umbilicus, and genitalia, Seborrhea of the scalp is commonly known as dandruff

Seborrheic dermatitis A medical name for what is popularly called seborrhea

Seborrheic eczema Yellowish, oily, scaly plaques of skin on the scalp, face, and other parts of the body

Seborrheic keratosis A common skin disorder that is characterized by benign, painless, often wart-like skin lesions that appear to be 'stuck on.'The raised spots are usually yellow or brown

Sebum An oily secretion of the sebaceous gland which helps to preserve the flexibility of the hair

Seckel syndrome A rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by intrauterine growth retardation, dwarfism, microcephaly with mental retardation, and a characteristic 'bird-headed' facial appearance

Second cranial nerve The optic nerve, the nerve that connects the eye to the brain and carries the impulses formed by the retina -- the nerve layer that lines the back of the eye, senses light and creates the impulses -- to the brain which interprets them as images

Second stage of labor The part of labor from the full dilatation of the cervix until the baby is completely out of the birth canal. The second stage of labor is also called the stage of expulsion

Second wave A phenomenon of infections that can develop during a pandemic. The disease infects one group of people first. Infections appear to decrease. And then, infections increase in a different part of the population, resulting in a second wave of infections

Secondary amenorrhea The cessation of menstruation for abnormal reasons

Secondary amyloidosis One of a group of diseases (called amyloidosis) in which protein deposits (amyloid) accumulate in one or more organ systems in the body, secondary amyloid is caused by a chronic infection or inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, familial Mediterranean fever, osteomyelitis, or granulomatous ileitis

Secondary atelectasis Partial or total collapse of a lung or a segment of a lung that was once expanded, as may happen after chest surgery

Secretin A hormone that is made by glands in the small intestine whose primary function is the stimulation of pancreatic secretion

Section In anatomy, a slice of tissue

Sedative A drug that calms a patient, easing agitation and permitting sleep

Sedimentation rate A blood test that detects and monitors inflammation in the body. Abbreviated sed rate. The sed rate measures the rate at which red blood cells in a test tube separate from blood serum over time, becoming sediment at the bottom of the test tube

Segawa Dystonia A disorder that involves involuntary muscle contractions, tremors, and other uncontrolled movements

Seizure Uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, which may produce a physical convulsion, minor physical signs, thought disturbances, or a combination of symptoms

Selective Estrogen-Receptor Modulator (SERM) A "designer estrogen" which possesses some, but not all, of the actions of estrogen

Selective mutism An inability to speak in certain situations

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor One of the commonly prescribed drugs for treating depression

Selenium An essential mineral that is a component of an antioxidant enzyme, glutathione reductase, that is key in tissue respiration

Selenium deficiency Lack of the essential mineral selenium, which can cause Keshan disease, a fatal form of disease of the heart muscle

Selenocysteine An amino acid in which selenium takes the place of sulfur in the amino acid cysteine

Selenoprotein A peculiar class of proteins that contain the essential trace element selenium. The selenium in these proteins is in the amino acid selenocysteine

Selenium toxicity The condition can occur with acute or chronic ingestion of excess selenium. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, nail discoloration, brittleness, and loss, hair loss, fatigue, irritability, and foul breath odor

Self-harm Simply called self-injury, is the act of deliberately harming the surface of your own body, such as cutting or burning yourself

Selfish operon The physical proximity of genes may be considered a selfish property of the operon since it affects the probability of successful horizontal transfer but may provide no physiological benefit to the host

Sella turcica A depression in the base of the skull where the pituitary gland is situated. It was called the sella turcica because of its resemblance to a saddle used by the Turks which had supports in the front and back

Semen The fluid that is released through the penis during orgasm

Semiallogeneic Sharing some but not all genes, as in parent-child relationships

Seminal vesicle One of two structures that are about 5 cm long and are located behind the bladder and above the prostate gland. The seminal vesicles contribute fluid to the
ejaculate

Senescence Aging, the process of becoming old, or the state of being old

Senile Pertaining to the physical and mental decline associated with old age

Senile chorea A well recognised but poorly
understood clinical entity characterised by a slowly progressive, generalised chorea in elderly people without mental deterioration or a clear underlying cause

Senile keratosis Most common noncancerous skin growths in older adults. A seborrheic keratosis usually appears as a brown, black or light tan growth on the face, chest, shoulders or back. The growth has a waxy, scaly, slightly elevated appearance

Senile lentigo A benign pigmented flat spot on sun-exposed skin in older adults, especially on the back of the hands and on the forehead. Also called a liver spot

Senility Old age

Sensation The ability to feel something physically, especially by touching, or a physical feeling

Sense The ability to convey specific types of external or internal stimuli to the brain and perceive them

Sense-strand RNA virus A virus that uses positive sense, single-stranded RNA as its genetic material

Sensitivity The quality or condition of being sensitive

Sensorium The sum of an organism's perception, the "seat of sensation" where it experiences and interprets the environments within which it lives

Sensory Relating to sensation, to the perception of a stimulus, to the voyage made by incoming nerve impulses from the sense organs to the nerve centers or to the senses themselves

Sensory integration The process by which we receive information through our senses, organize this information, and use it to participate in everyday activities

Sensory neuron A neuron that receives electrical input signals from sensory cells and from other neurons

Sentinel lymph node The first lymph node to receive lymphatic drainage from a tumor

Sentinel lymph node biopsy Examination of the first lymph node that receives lymphatic drainage from a tumor to determine whether that node does or does not have tumor cells within it

Seoul virus A member of the Orthohantavirus family of rodent-borne viruses and can cause Hantavirus hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. Seoul virus is carried by rats

Separation anxiety A developmental stage during which a child experiences anxiety when separated from the primary care giver (usually the mother). Separation anxiety is normal between 8 months of age and may last until 14 months old

Separation anxiety disorder An anxiety disorder in which an individual experiences excessive anxiety regarding separation from home or from people to whom the individual has a strong emotional attachment

Sepsis The presence of bacteria , other infectious organisms, or toxins created by infectious organisms in the bloodstream with spread throughout the body

Septal defect, atrial (ASD) A hole in the septum, the wall, between the atria, the upper chambers of the heart

Septal defect, ventricular (VSD) A hole in the septum (the wall) between the lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles)

Septate Divided

Septate vagina A rare condition in which the vagina is divided, usually longitudinally, to create a double vagina

Septic Infected, or denoting infection

Septic arthritis Joint inflammation caused by infection from blood poisoning (sepsis) or from infection within the affected joint itself, or as a side effect of infection in other body tissues

Septic bursitis Inflammation of a bursa due to infection, usually with bacteria

Septicemia Systemic illness with toxicity due to invasion of the bloodstream by virulent bacteria coming from a local site of infection

Septorhinoplasty A surgical procedure done on the nose and the nasal septum, the wall within the nose separating the left and right sides

Septuagenarian Someone in his or her seventies

Septum A dividing wall or enclosure

Sequela A pathological condition resulting from a prior disease, injury, or attack

Sequence tagged site (STS) A short (200 to 500 base pair) DNA sequence that occurs but once in the genome and whose location and base sequence are known

Sequencing Determining the order of nucleotides (base sequences) in a DNA or RNA molecule, or determining the order of amino acids in a protein

Sequester To set apart, detach or separate a small portion of tissue from the rest. May be naturally occurring or iatrogenic

Serendipity An accidental and fortunate discovery

Serial amnioreduction The repeated removal of large volumes of amniotic fluid by amniocentesis. The rationale for serial amnioreduction is to prevent preterm delivery related to polyhydramnios and to improve fetal hemodynamics by decreasing pressure on the surface of the placenta

Serial transverse enteroplasty (STEP) A new intestinal lengthening procedure that has been shown to clinically increase bowel length

Serine A dietary nonessential amino acid, serine is present in many proteins participates in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, and is in the active sites of many enzymes

Seroconversion The development of detectable antibodies in the blood that
are directed against an infectious agent

Serositis Inflammation of the serous tissues of the body (the tissues that line the lungs, heart, abdomen, and inner abdominal organs)

Serotonin A neurotransmitter that is involved in the transmission of nerve impulses. Serotonin can trigger the release of substances in the blood vessels of the brain that in turn cause the pain of migraine. Serotonin is also key to mood regulation, pain perception, gastrointestinal function,
including perception of hunger and satiety, and other physical functions

Serotype The kind of microorganism as characterized by serologic typing (testing for recognizable antigens on the surface of the microorganism)

Serrated Having a notched edge or sawlike teeth, especially for cutting; serrate

Serratus One of several muscles of the back and thorax. that have interdigitating slips that ressemble the notches on the cutting edge of a saw

Serratus magnus One of the serratus muscles of the back and thorax. The serratus magnus originates from the lateral aspect (the side) of the first eight to nine ribs and inserts into the medial margin of the scapula

Serum The clear liquid that can be separated from clotted blood

Serum amyloid A A family of apolipoproteins associated with high-density lipoprotein in plasma

Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) An enzyme that is normally present in liver and heart cells

Serum hepatitis Hepatitis B

Serving size The recommended portion of food to be eaten

Sesamoid bone A little bone that is embedded in a joint capsule or tendon

Sesamoiditis Inflammation of a sesamoid bone

Seven day diet Any weight loss plan designed to be followed for seven days at a time

Seven-day measles An acute highly contagious viral disease with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a spreading skin rash, the measles, (also known as rubeola) is a potentially disastrous disease. During pregnancy measles may trigger miscarriages or premature delivery

Seventh cranial nerve The facial nerve, a mixed nerve that has fibers both going out and coming in (both efferent and afferent fibers). It supplies the muscles of facial expression

Seventh cranial nerve paralysis Known as Bell's palsy, this is paralysis of the facial nerve, the nerve that supplies the facial muscles on one side of the face

Sever condition Inflammation of the growth plate of the calcaneus, the bone at the back of the heel

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) An infection caused by a virus. It causes fever, cough, and other symptoms. SARS can also cause serious lung problems and even death

Severe combined immunodeficiency disease A combined deficiency of the immune system in which its two major weapons, antibodies and T cells, are genetically missing or disabled

Severe congenital neutropenia One of several genetic disorders of the bone marrow that is evident at birth and characterized by a lack of neutrophils

Severe cyclonic storm A regionally specific name for a strong tropical cyclone in the North Indian Ocean

Severe tropical cyclone A regionally specific name for a strong tropical cyclone in the Southwest Pacific Ocean west of 160E or Southeast Indian Ocean east of 90E

Sex chromosome The X or Y chromosome in humans

Sex region Y A region on the Y chromosome that determines the sex of the individual. This region which goes by the symbol SRY (sex region Y) is necessary and sufficient for male sex determination. It is the testis- determining factor

Sexagenarian Someone in his or her sixties

Sexploitation The exploitation of sex, often for commercial purposes

Sexual child abuse Child abuse comprises four basic types of mistreatment: child neglect, physical abuse of a child, emotional abuse of a child, and sexual abuse of a child

Sexual masochism A disorder in which individuals use sexual fantasies, urges or behaviors involving the act of being humiliated, beaten or otherwise made to suffer in order to achieve sexual excitement and climax

Sexually transmitted disease Any disease transmitted by sexual contact, caused by microorganisms that survive on the skin or mucus membranes of the genital area or transmitted via semen, vaginal secretions, or blood during intercourse

Shaken baby syndrome Characteristic injuries caused by violently shaking an infant

Shank In anatomy, the tibia, the larger bone in the lower leg

Sharp Medical slang for a needle or a similar pointed object

Shigella A group of bacteria that can cause infantile gastroenteritis, summer diarrhea of childhood , and various forms of dysentery, including epidemic and opportunistic bacillary dysentery

Shigellosis Epidemic and opportunistic (causes disease when the immune system is suppressed) dysentery that is due to infection with shigella bacteria

Shin The tibia, the larger of the two bones in the lower leg

Shin bone fever Called shin bone fever because it characteristically causes fever and pain in the legs, this disease is also known as trench fever

Shin splint An inflammatory condition of the front part of the tibia that results from overuse, as, for example, from running too much on hard roads or sidewalks. Shin splints are due to injury to the posterior peroneal tendon, ligaments, and adjacent tissues in the front of the leg

Shin spot A light brown or reddish oval or round scaly patch on the skin of the shin. Shin spots can be due to diabetes

Shinbone The larger of the two bones in the lower leg

Shingle In medicine, a historical term referencing a small signboard outside the office of a doctor

Shingles An acute infection caused by the herpes zoster virus, the same virus as causes chickenpox

Shingles pain Localized pain in the area of involvement of shingles. When such pain persists beyond one month it is referred to as postherpetic neuralgia

Ship fever An old name for epidemic typhus, which was common in the crowded conditions aboard ship

Shock In medicine, a critical condition that is brought on by a sudden drop in blood flow through the body

Shopaholic Someone obsessed with shopping

Short arm of a chromosome The "p" comes from the French "petit" meaning small. All human chromosomes have 2 arms, the p (short) arm and the q (long) arm. They are separated from each other only by a primary
constriction, the centromere, the point at which the chromosome is attached to the spindle during cell division

Short bowel syndrome A condition due to loss of half or more of their small intestine removed because of surgical removal or disease of the small intestine

Short hairpin RNA Also called shRNA/Hairpin
Vector, is an artificial RNA molecule with a tight hairpin turn that can be used to silence target gene expression via RNA interference (RNAi)

Short-term memory The capacity for holding, but not manipulating, a small amount of information in mind in an active, readily available state for a short period of time

Shortness of breath Difficulty in breathing. Medically referred to as dyspnea that can be
caused by respiratory or circulatory conditions and other conditions such as severe anemia or high fever

Shotgun sequencing A method used for sequencing long DNA strands. It is named by
analogy with the rapidly expanding, quasi-random firing pattern of a shotgun

Shotty Resembling shot or pellets of lead, shotgun pellets and, hence, hard and round

Shoulder The human shoulder is made up of three bones: the clavicle (collarbone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the humerus (upper arm bone) as well as associated muscles, ligaments and tendons. The articulations between the bones of the shoulder make up the shoulder joints

Shoulder blade The familiar flat triangular bone at the back of the shoulder. Known familiarly as the wingbone or, medically, as the scapula

Shoulder bursitis Inflammation of a bursa of the shoulder

Shoulder dystocia The baby's shoulder becomes wedged behind the mother's pubis, sometimes this happens because the baby is too big to fit through the birth canal

Shoulder joint The flexible ball-and-socket joint formed by the junction of the humerus and the scapula

Show Short for bloody show

Shprintzen syndrome The premature fusion of certain skull bones. This early fusion prevents the skull from growing normally

Shulman's syndrome A rare disease that leads to inflammation and thickening of the skin and
fascia underneath.Also called Eosinophilic fasciitis

Shunt To move a body fluid, such as cerebrospinal fluid, from one place to another

Shy-Drager syndrome Rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by tremors, slow movement, muscle rigidity, and postural instability (collectively known as parkinsonism) due to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, and ataxia.Also called Multiple system atrophy (MSA)

SI joint pain Dysfunction in the sacroiliac joint, also called the SI joint, can sometimes cause lower back and/or leg pain. Leg pain from sacroiliac joint dysfunction can be particularly difficult to differentiate from radiating leg pain caused by a lumbar disc herniation as they can feel quite similar

Sialidosis An autosomal recessive disorder characterized by the progressive lysosomal storage of sialylated glycopeptides and oligosaccharides caused by a deficiency of the enzyme neuraminidase

Siamese twin Identical (monozygotic) twins that did not separate fully from one another but are still partially united. Due to the incomplete division of one fertilized ovum. Such twins are known medically as conjoined twins

Sib Sibling

Sibling A brother or sister

Sibship The relationship between the children born to a set of parents

Sicca syndrome An autoimmune disease, also known as Sjogren syndrome, that classically combines dry eyes, dry mouth, and another disease of connective tissue such as rheumatoid arthritis (most common), lupus, scleroderma or polymyositis

Sick building syndrome The situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. The complaints may be localized in a particular room or zone, or may be widespread throughout the building

Sick sinus syndrome Also called sinus dysfunction, or sinoatrial node disease ("SND"), is a group of abnormal heart rhythms caused by a malfunction of the sinus node, the heart's primary pacemaker

Sickle cell anemia A genetic blood disease due to the presence of an abnormal form of hemoglobin, namely hemoglobin S

Sickle cell disease A group of disorders that affects hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. People with this disorder have typical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape

Sickle cell trait The condition in which a person has only one copy of the gene for sickle cell (and is called a sickle heterozygote) but does not have sickle cell disease (which requires two copies of the sickle cell gene)

Sickle hemoglobin Hemoglobin S, the most common type of abnormal hemoglobin and the basis of both sickle cell trait and sickle cell anemia

Sideropenic dysphagia A rare disease characterized by difficulty in swallowing, iron deficiency anemia, glossitis, cheilosis and esophageal webs.The disease also called Plummer–Vinson syndrome (PVS) or Brown–Kelly syndrome

SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) Also known as cot death or crib death, is the sudden unexplained death of a child less than one year of age.SIDS usually occurs during sleep

Sigmodon hispidus The hispid cotton rat is a rodent species long thought to occur in parts of South America, Central America, and southern North America

Sigmoid In human anatomy, the lower colon

Sigmoid volvulus A cause of large bowel obstruction and occurs when the sigmoid colon twists on its mesentery, the sigmoid mesocolon

Sigmoidoscope A lighted instrument that is used to view the inside of the lower colon

Sigmoidoscopy A procedure in which a physician inserts a viewing tube into the rectum for the purpose of inspecting the lower colon and rectum

Sign Any objective evidence of disease, as opposed to a symptom, which is, by nature, subjective

Signal transduction The conversion of a signal from outside the cell to a functional change within the cell

Signal transduction pathway The course by which a signal from outside a cell is converted to a functional change within the cell

Signature That part of the prescription that contains the doctor 's directions to the patient

Sikimitoxin Poisonous substance found in the Japanese star anise(Sikimi plant). Star anise is chiefly used as a condiment in Chinese meat dishes

Silencing of gene A mechanism by which cells shut down large sections of chromosomal DNA. Gene silencing is done by incorporating the DNA to be silenced into a form of DNA called heterochromatin that is already silent

Silent stroke Small strokes that do not cause any symptoms. Silent strokes still damage brain tissue

Silica The chief component of sand and a substance responsible for lung disease and cancer

Silicatosis A disease of the lungs caused by continued inhalation of the dust of siliceous minerals and characterized by progressive fibrosis and a chronic shortness of breath

Silicosis A form of lung disease resulting from occupational exposure to silica dust over a period of years. Silicosis causes slowly progressive fibrosis of the lungs, impairment of lung function and a tendency to tuberculosis of the lungs

Silk Road disease Behcet's disease. Called Silk Road disease because it is most common and more severe in people originating from countries along the Silk Road, the vast network of ancient trade routes connecting China with the Mediterranean Basin

Silver A chemical element with symbol Ag and atomic number 47. A soft, white, lustrous transition metal, it exhibits the highest electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and reflectivity of any metal.It is a precious metal used in jewelry, dental fillings,silverware and other consumer goods. A metal used in some medications and in many "natural" remedies.

Silver bullet Or magic bullet The perfect drug to cure a disease with no danger of side effects

Silver poisoning Medically termed argyria, causes ashen gray discoloration of the skin (and other tissues of the body). Due to chronic use of silver salts

Simian crease A single transverse crease in the palm, a minor variation associated with Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and a number of chromosomal and other abnormalities.Also called a four-finger crease; single palmar flexion crease; single upper palm crease

Single base change A change in which a single base in the DNA differs from the usual base at that position. These single base changes are also called SNPs or "snip"

Single gene disease Any genetic disorder caused by a change affecting only one gene

Single nucleotide polymorphism A change in which a single base in the.DNA differs from the usual base at that position

Single transverse palmar crease Preferable term for what historically was called a simian crease

Single-blind Of or relating to an experiment or
clinical trial in which the researchers but not the subjects know which subjects are receiving the active medication or treatment and which are not

Singultus The misspelling hiccough

Sinoatrial node The heart's natural pacemaker, one of the major elements in the cardiac conduction system, the system that controls the heart rate

Sinuous Curving in and out; in a serpentine, wavy form; winding

Sinus An air-filled cavity in a dense portion of a skull bone

Sinus arrhythmia The normal increase in heart rate that occurs during inspiration.This is a natural response and is more accentuated in children than adults

Sinus barotrauma Sinus troubles, particularly with pain and a feeling of pressure, due to changing atmospheric pressures, as when going up or down in a plane

Sinus bradycardia A regular but unusually slow heart beat (50 beats/minute or less at rest). Sinus bradycardia can be the result of many things including good physical fitness, medications, and some forms of heart block

Sinus headache A headache caused by pressure within the sinus cavities of the head, usually in connection with sinus infection. The sufferer has pain and tenderness in the sinus area, discharge from the nose, and sometimes a swollen face

Sinus node One of the major elements in the cardiac conduction system, the system that controls the heart rate. This stunningly designed system generates electrical impulses and conducts them throughout the muscle of the heart, stimulating the heart to contract and pump blood

Sinus tachycardia A sinus rhythm with an elevated rate of impulses, defined as a rate greater than 100 beats/min (bpm) in an average adult

Sinusitis Inflammation of the lining membrane in any of the hollow areas(sinuses) of the skull around the nose

Sinusitus headache Headache that occurs in association with infection or inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, the air cavities within the passages of the nose

Sirenomelia (mermaid syndrome) An extremely rare congenital malformation (birth defect) that results in partial or complete fusion of the legs. The condition occurs due to abnormalities in the development of the spine and legs. Other organ systems can also be impacted; those affected may also have problems with the digestive systems, kidneys and urinary system

siRNA Abbreviation for small inhibitory RNA, a short sequence of RNA which can be used to silence gene expression

Sirolimus Also known as rapamycin, is a macrolide compound that is used to coat coronary stents, prevent organ transplant rejection and to treat a rare lung disease called lymphangioleiomyomatosis. It has immunosuppressant functions in humans and is especially useful in preventing the rejection of kidney transplants

Sitosterolemia A genetic disease involving lipids (fats) in which there is excessive intestinal absorption of dietary sterols and impaired clearance of these sterols from the liver into the bile

Situational syncope The temporary loss of consciousness in a particular kind of situation. The situations that trigger this reaction are diverse, and include having blood drawn, straining while urinating or defecating, and coughing. It can also be due to the emotional stress, fear, or pain. When experiencing the trigger condition, the person often becomes pale and feels nauseated, sweaty, and weak just before losing consciousness

Situs inversus totalis The inverted position of chest and abdominal organs

Six fingers or toes A very common congenital
malformation (birth defect). This condition is called hexadactyly.The word hexadactyl literally means six digits

Sixth cranial nerve The abducent nerve, a small motor nerve that has one task: to supply a muscle called the lateral rectus muscle that moves the eye outward

Sixth disease A viral illness that mmos commonly affects young kids between 6 months and 2 years old. It is usually marked by several days of high fever, followed by a distinctive rash just as the fever breaks.The sixth disease also called exanthem subitum, and roseola infantum

Sjogren syndrome A systemic chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by lymphocytic infiltrates in exocrine organs

Sjogren-Larsson syndrome A genetic disease usually characterized by a triad of clinical findings consisting of ichthyosis (thickened fish-like skin), spastic paraplegia (spasticity of the legs) and mental retardation

Skeletal Pertaining to the skeleton, the bones of the body that collectively provide the frame for the body

Skeletal dysplasia One of a large contingent of genetic diseases in which the bony skeleton forms abnormally during fetal development

Skeletal muscle One of the major type of muscles that are attached to bones by tendons, and they produce all the movements of body parts in relation to each
other. Unlike smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, skeletal muscle is under voluntary control

Skeleton Bony framework of the body

Skin The largest organ of the body, with a total area of about 20 square feet. The skin protects us from microbes and the elements, helps regulate body temperature, and permits the sensations of touch, heat, and cold.Skin has three layers: The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone. The dermis, beneath the epidermis, contains tough connective tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands. The deeper subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis) is made
of fat and connective tissue. The skin’s color is created by special cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin. Melanocytes are located in the epidermis

Skin abscess A common boil, a collection of pus beneath the skin

Skin biopsy Removal of a piece of skin for the purpose of diagnostic examination

Skin calipers A simple method for determining the lean body mass .This method involves measuring the skinfold thickness of the layer of fat just under the skin in several parts of the body with calipers . The results are then calculated and the percentage of body fat is determined

Skin erosion A loss of some or all of the epidermis leaving a denuded surface

Skin graft Skin used to cover an area where the patient's skin has been lost due to a burn, an injury, or surgery

Skin plaque A broad, raised area on the skin

Skin tag A small, soft, benign skin growth, often on a stalk. Skin tags are probably the single most common bump on adult skin.These tags are harmless but can be annoying, and tend to occur on the eyelids, neck, armpits, groin folds, and under breasts

Skittles Street name for dextromethorphan
(a drug of the morphinan class )

Skittling Street name for the high produced by abuse of the drug dextromethorphan

Skull A collection of bones which encase the brain and give form to the head and face. The bones of the skull include the following: the frontal, parietal,occipital, temporal, sphenoid, ethmoid, zygomatic, maxilla, nasal, vomer, palatine, inferior concha, and mandible

Skullcap Calvaria, the top part of the skull, in human (or other vertebrate animal) anatomy

Slake To satisfy or quench

Slanted ear An ear that is slanted more than usual

Slapped cheek (Fifth disease) A viral illness that most kids recover from quickly and without complications. it's caused by parvovirus B19. Fifth disease causes a distinctive red rash on the face that makes a child appear to have a "slapped cheek."

SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) A chronic inflammatory condition caused by an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease occurs when the body's tissues are attacked by its own immune system

Sleep The body's rest cycle

Sleep apnea The temporary stoppage of breathing during sleep, often resulting in daytime sleepiness.Apnea is a Greek word that means "want of breath "

Sleep disorders Any disorder that affects, disrupts, or involves sleep

Sleep hygiene A series of practices and non-medical treatments for insomnia

Sleep jerk Also called a hypnic jerk, hypnagogic jerk, sleep start, sleep twitch or night start. It is an involuntary twitch which occurs when a person is beginning to fall asleep, often causing them to awaken suddenly for a moment

Sleep paralysis A frightening form of paralysis that occurs when a person suddenly finds himself or herself unable to move for a few minutes, most often upon falling asleep or waking up

Sleep restriction therapy A type of therapy in which the number of hours of sleep are restricted

Sleep talking Talking in one's sleep is considered a normal phenomenon that is of no medical or psychological consequence. Also called somniloquy

Sleeping disease A neurological disorder marked by a sudden recurrent uncontrollable compulsion to sleep. Also known a anarcolepsy

Sleeplessness Insomnia

Sleepwalking Formally known as somnambulism, is a behavior disorder that originates during deep sleep and results in walking or performing other complex behaviors while asleep

Slipped disc Rupturing of the tissue that separates the vertebral bones of the spinal column

Slipped spine Also called Spondylolisthesis. A condition in which one of the bones of the spine (vertebrae ) slips out of place onto the vertebra . If the slipped vertebra is pressing on a nerve, pain might spread down the leg to the foot

Slow virus A virus that has a long incubation period before the onset of a very gradual progressive disease

Slow-wave sleep Often referred to as deep sleep, consists of Stage three (combined stages 3 and 4) of non-rapid eye movement sleep

Sly syndrome Also called mucopolysaccharidosis type VII (MPS 7), is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease characterized by a deficiency of the enzyme β-glucuronidase, a lysosomal enzyme. Sly syndrome belongs to a group of disorders known as mucopolysaccharidoses, which are lysosomal storage diseases

Small bowel Another name for the small intestine

Small cell lung cancer A type of lung cancer in which the cells appear small and round under the microscope. Also called oat cell lung cancer

Small eye Also called microphthalmia, an abnormally small eye, a congenital malformation

Small for gestational age (SGA) SGA infants weigh 2500 g or less at birth and are considered to have intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), given their gestational age

Small intestine The part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the large intestine

Small round blue cell tumor A group of childhood tumors that is characterized by a similar appearance under the microscope. The appearance is that of small, round, primitive cells that stain blue with conventional staining techniques for biopsy analysis. The small round blue cell tumors include neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and the Ewing's family of tumors

Small saphenous vein A relatively large superficial vein of the posterior leg

Smallpox A highly contagious and frequently fatal viral disease that is characterized by a biphasic fever and a distinctive skin rash that leaves pock marks in its wake

Smallpox bioterrorism The misuse of smallpox as an agent of bioterrorism

Smallpox vaccine A vaccine that contains a live virus called vaccinia that is used to prevent smallpox. The vaccine does not contain the variola virus that causes smallpox, but exposes the immune system to proteins that look like the virus so that an immune response occurs

Smell The faculty or power of perceiving odours or scents by means of the organs in the nose

Smell disorder A loss in the ability to smell or a change in the way odors are perceived. Reduction of the sense of smell is termed hyposmia. Total inability to detect odors is termed anosmia

Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome An inborn error of cholesterol synthesis. It is an autosomal recessive, multiple malformation syndrome caused by a mutation in the enzyme 7-Dehydrocholesterol reductase, or DHCR7

Smith-Magenis syndrome A syndrome of abnormal physical, developmental and behavioral features due to microdeletion of chromosome 17

Smoldering leukemia A condition in which the bone marrow does not function normally. It does not produce enough blood cells

Smooth muscle Muscle tissue in which the contractile fibrils are not highly ordered, occurring in the gut and other internal organs and not under voluntary control

Snake A long limbless scaly reptile, some being poisonous

Snake antivenin Antibodies created in the blood of a horse or sheep when the animal is injected with snake venom. Antivenin works by neutralizing snake venom that has entered the body

Sneeze Suddenly expel air through the nose and mouth by an involuntary contraction of the muscles of expiration

Snellen's chart The familiar eye chart used to measure how well you see at various distances

Snip A single base change , a change in which a single base in the DNA differs from the usual base at that position. Snips are also termed SNPs

Snoring A rough rattling noise made on inspiration during sleep by vibration of the soft palate (the back of the roof of the mouth) and the uvula (the prominent structure dangling down at the back of the mouth)

Snort Take in a drug by nasal inhalation

Snot A popular and pejorative, term for nasal mucus

Snowblindness A burn of the cornea by ultraviolet B rays. Also called radiation keratitis or photokeratitis

Snuff Tobacco in the form of a powder that is inhaled into the nose, not smoked

Social anxiety disorder Excessive fear of embarrassment in social situations that is extremely intrusive and can have debilitating effects on personal and professional relationships. Also called social phobia

Social psychology The study of the mind and mental processes, particularly as regards social interactions, focusing on the ways our actions influence others, and vice versa

Sociogenomics The identification of the genes that influence social behavior, the understanding of the influence of these genes on underlying neural and endocrine mechanisms, and the exploration of the effects of the environment ,particularly the social environment

Sociopath A term once used for someone with what is now called antisocial personality disorder

Sociophobia Fear of social gatherings, fear of socializing, fear of embarrassment in social situations that is extremely intrusive and can have markedly debilitating effects on personal and professional relationships

Sodium The major positive ion (cation) in the fluid surrounding cells in the body. The chemical notation for sodium is Na+

Soft chancre A usually painless local genital ulcer that follows an infection by Haemophilus ducreyi. It is accompanied by suppuration of the inguinal lymphatic nodes, or inguinal buboes

Soft palate The muscular part of the roof of the mouth. The soft palate is directly behind the hard palate , and it lacks bone

Soft tissue sarcoma A malignant tumor that begins in the muscle, fat, fibrous tissue, blood vessels, or other soft supporting tissues of the body. Soft tissue sarcomas do not originate in bone or cartilage

Soft ulcer A bacterial sexually transmitted infection characterized by painful sores on the genitalia

Solar keratosis A scaly spot found on sun-damaged skin

Solipsism The view or theory that the self is all that can be known to exist

Solitary tapeworm They are flat, segmented worms that live in the intestines of some animals. Animals can become infected with these parasites when grazing in pastures or drinking contaminated water

Solitude An abnormal and persistent fear of solitude, of being alone. Sufferers of this fear experience undue anxiety even though they realize that being alone does not threaten their well-being. They may worry about being ignored and unloved, or they may worry about intruders, strange noises or the possibility of developing a medical problem

Somatic Relating to the body, especially as distinct from the mind

Somatic cell Any cell in the body other than an egg or sperm

Somatic cell nuclear transfer The transfer of the nucleus from a somatic cell into an egg from which the nucleus has been removed

Somatic mutation A mutation in a somatic cell, in contrast to a mutation in a germ cell

Somatization The normal, unconscious process by which psychological distress is expressed as physical symptoms

Somatoform disorder A form of mental illness that causes one or more bodily symptoms, including pain

Somatostatin A hormone that is widely distributed throughout the body, especially in the hypothalamus and pancreas, that acts as an important regulator of endocrine and nervous system function by inhibiting the secretion of several other hormones such as growth hormone, insulin, and gastrin

Somatotropin A growth hormone that is produced by the anterior pituitary

Somatropin Any form of synthetically created Human Growth Hormone (HGH). Synthetic HGH is simply a man made version of the naturally produced Growth Hormone (GH) by the human body

Somnambulism Sleepwalking. A phenomenon of combined sleep and wakefulness. It is classified as a sleep disorder belonging to the parasomnia family

Somnambulist A sleepwalker

Somniloquy Sleep talking. Talking in one's sleep is considered a normal phenomenon that is of no medical or psychological consequence

Somnolence Sleepiness, the state of feeling drowsy, ready to fall asleep

Somnolent Sleepy or tending to cause sleep

Somnoplasty A surgical treatment to stop snoring

Soothing Bringing comfort, solace, reassurance, peace, composure, quietude

Sopor Abnormally deep sleep, an unusually profound sleep, a stupor from which it is difficult to rouse a person. Sopor may be due to a drug

Soporific Something such as a drug that causes or induces profound sleep. Tending to cause sleep or to dull the sense of awareness or alertness

Sore Painful or aching

Sore throat Pain in the throat. Sore throat may be caused by many different causes, including
inflammation of the larynx, pharynx, or tonsils

Sotos syndrome A rare genetic disorder characterized by excessive physical growth during the first years of life

South Sudan disease One of the poorest areas in the world and home to many maladies including malaria, river blindness, nodding syndrome, guinea worm disease, African sleeping sicknness, visceral leishmaniasis, and Buruli ulcer. Some of these diseases are rare or unheard of outside South
Sudan

Southern blot A test commonly used in molecular biology and genetics , the purpose of the test being to check for a match between DNA molecules

Soy milk allergy Soy allergy symptoms can include asthma, atopic dermatitis, colitis, diarrhea, eczema, fever, itching, vomiting and wheezing. Symptoms typically start appearing within 48 hours after a child eats or drinks soy protein

Spanish disease Syphilis

Spasm A brief, automatic jerking movement

Spasmodic dysphonia A disorder that involves the muscles of the throat that control speech. Spasmodic dysphonia causes strained and difficult speaking or breathy and effortful speech. Also known as spastic dysphonia,laryngeal dystonia, adductor spasmodic dysphonia, and abductor
spasmodic dysphonia

Spastic colitis A common gastrointestinal disorder involving an abnormal condition of gut contractions (motility) characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, mucous in stools, and irregular bowel habits with alternating diarrhea and constipation, symptoms that tend to be chronic and to wax and wane over the years

Spastic colon Another term for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common disorder characterized by abdominal cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea

Spastic dysphonia Also known as laryngeal dystonia, is a disorder in which the muscles that generate a person's voice go into periods of spasm. This results in breaks or interruptions in the voice, often every few sentences, which can make a person difficult to understand

Spastic pseudoparalysis Better known as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). A dementing disease of the brain.CJD is believed to be due to a highly unconventional transmissible agent named a prion.Symptoms include forgetfulness, nervousness, jerky trembling hand movements, unsteady gait, muscle spasms, chronic dementia, balance disorder, and loss of facial expression

Spasticity A state of increased tone of a muscle (and an increase in the deep tendon reflexes)

SPD calcinosis Striopallidodentate (SPD)
calcinosis, a condition first described in 1930 by T. Fahr and therefore called Fahr syndrome, is a genetic (inherited) neurological disorder characterized by abnormal deposits of calcium in certain of areas of the brain

Special pathogen A highly infectious agent that produces severe disease in humans

Specific-pathogen free A term that is applied to animals reared for use in laboratory experiments which indicates that the animals are known to be free of germs that can cause disease. Abbreviated SPF

Specificity The quality of belonging or relating uniquely to a particular subject

Speckled iris Small, white or grayish-brown spots on the periphery of the iris in the human eye due to aggregation of connective tissue, a normal constituent of the iris stroma

Spectral karyotype (SKY) A visualization of all of the chromosomes in the genome all together with each chromosome labeled with a different color. The SKY technique is useful for identifying chromosome abnormalities

Spectrophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of ghosts

Spectrophotometer A device which measures the amount of ultraviolet light absorbed by a substance

Speculum An instrument that is used to widen the opening of the vagina so that the cervix is more easily visible

Speech disorder A disorder affecting the ability to produce normal speech

Speech therapy The treatment of speech and communication disorders. It may include physical exercises to strengthen the muscles used in speech (oral- motor work), speech drills to improve clarity, or sound production practice to improve articulation

Sperm The male gamete or sex cell

Sperm function The capability of sperm to function -- to penetrate and fertilize the egg

Sperm motility The percentage of all moving sperm in a semen sample

Sperm stem cell A cell that is incapable of fertilizing an egg cell but can give rise to cells that develop into sperm

Spermatic cord A group of structures that go through the inguinal canal to the testis. These structures include the vas deferens , arteries, veins, lymphatic vessels, and nerves

Spermatocide Any agent that is destructive to spermatozoa (that is, kills sperm)

Spermatogenesis The process of sperm formation

Sphenoid Shaped like a wedge

Sphenoid bone A prominent, irregular, wedge-shaped bone at the base of the skull. The sphenoid bone has been called the 'keystone' of the cranial floor because it is in contact with all of the other cranial bones

Sphenopalatine neuralgia A distinctive syndrome of headaches, better known today as cluster headache

Sphincteroplasty The surgical reconstruction of a sphincter muscle. This usually refers to the procedure that can be done on the muscles of the anal sphincter that control bowel movements

Sphingomyelin lipoidosis Also called Niemann-Pick disease, this is a disorder of the metabolism of a lipid (fat) called sphingomyelin that usually causes the progressive development of enlargement of the liver and spleen (hepatosplenomegaly), "swollen glands" (lymphadenopathy), anemia and mental and physical deterioration

Sphygmomanometer An instrument for measuring blood pressure, particularly in arteries

Spider telangiectasia Spider veins

Spina bifida A type of birth defect called a neural tube defect. It occurs when the bones of the spine (vertebrae) don't form properly around part of the baby's spinal cord

Spina bifida cystica A bony defect in the vertebral column that causes a cleft in that column. The meningeal membranes that cover the spinal cord and part of the spinal cord protrude through this cleft, and are clearly visible

Spina bifida occulta A bony defect in the vertebral column that causes a cleft in that column. The cleft remains covered by skin. Treatment is usually not required

Spinal compression The act of exerting an abnormal amount of pressure on the spinal cord

Spinal cord The major column of nerve tissue that is connected to the brain and lies within the vertebral canal and from which the spinal nerves emerge

Spinal fusion Surgery to join two or more vertebrae into one single structure. The goal is to stop movement between the two bones and prevent back pain

Spinal muscular atrophy A genetic disease characterized by progressive loss of lower motor neurons (anterior horn cells) in the spinal cord, resulting in symmetric muscle weakness and atrophy

Spinal nerve One of the nerves that originates in the spinal cord. There are 31 pairs of spinal nerves: 8 cervical nerves, 12 thoracic nerves, 5 lumbar nerves, 5 sacral nerves, and 1 coccygeal nerve

Spinal stenosis A narrowing of the spaces within spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. Spinal stenosis occurs most often in the lower back and the neck. Some people with spinal stenosis may not have symptoms

Spinal tap Also known as a lumbar puncture or "LP", a spinal tap is a procedure whereby spinal fluid is removed from the spinal canal for the purpose of diagnostic testing

Spindle cell A cell that is tapered at both ends

Spindle neuron A large spindle -shaped cell body or soma with a tapering single apical axon in one direction

Spine The column of bone known as the vertebral column, which surrounds and protects the spinal cord

Spinocerebellar Pertaining to the spinal cord and the cerebellum

Spinocerebellar ataxia Ataxia with malfunction of the cerebellum

Spinous process A slender projection from the back of a vertebra to which muscles and ligaments are attached

Spirochete A microscopic bacterial organism in the Spirochaeta family that has a worm-like, spiral-shaped form and wiggles vigorously when viewed under a microscope

Spirometry A test of the air capacity of the lung. The test utilizes a machine called a spirometer to measure the volume of air inspired and expired by the lungs

Spit To eject sputum

Spitz-Holter valve A pioneering one-way valve created by John Holter to treat hydrocephalus

Spleen An organ that is located in the upper-left part of the abdomen, not far from the stomach, that produces lymphocytes, which are important elements in the immune system

Splenectomy An operation to remove the spleen

Splenic artery A large artery within the abdomen that arises from an arterial vessel called the celiac trunk, which emerges from the aorta. The splenic artery supplies blood not only to the spleen, but also to the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, liver, and pancreas

Splenic fever Also known as anthrax, splenic fever is a serious bacterial infection. It is not primarily a human disease but rather an infection of animals

Splenic vein A vein formed by the union of several small veins that return blood from the stomach, pancreas and spleen. The splenic vein is a major contributor to the portal vein which goes to the liver

Splenomegaly Abnormal enlargement of the spleen. Splenomegaly is a sign of an underlying condition, such as severe liver disease, leukemia, or mononucleosis

Split personality Multiple personality disorder, a neurosis in which the personality becomes dissociated into two or more distinct parts each of which becomes dominant and controls behavior from time to time to the exclusion of the other parts. A modern name for this condition is dissociative identity disorder

Spondylitis Inflammation of one or more of the vertebrae of the spine

Spondylolisthesis Forward movement of one vertebra in relationship to an adjacent vertebra

Spondylolysis The breaking down (dissolution) of a portion of a vertebra

Spondylosis Degeneration of the disc spaces between the vertebrae

Spongiform Resembling a sponge in being soft and full of cavities, as in as in transmissible spongiform encephalopathy

Spontaneous abortion A miscarriage, that is, any pregnancy that is not viable (the fetus cannot survive) or in which the fetus is born before the 20th week of pregnancy

Sporadic Occurring upon occasion or in a scattered, isolated, or seemingly random way

Sporotrichosis A disease caused by the infection of the fungus Sporothrix schenckii. This fungal disease usually affects the skin, although other rare forms can affect the lungs, joints, bones, and even the brain

Sprain An injury to a ligament that results from overuse or trauma

Sputum Mucous material from the lungs that is produced by coughing

Squamous cell carcinoma Cancer that begins in squamous cells

Squamous cells Flat cells that look like fish scales

Stanolone A semisynthetic analog of dihydrotestosterone

Stapes A stirrup-shaped bone in the middle ear . The stapes transmits sound vibrations from the incus , another little bone in the middle ear, to the oval window adjacent to the inner ear . The stapes is the smallest bone in the body

Staph Very commonly used shortened form of Staphylococcus, a very common and important group of bacteria

Staphylococcus A group of bacteria that cause a multitude of diseases.Under a microscope, staphylococcus bacteria are round and bunched together

Startle disease A genetic disorder also known as hyperexplexia in which babies have an exaggerated startle reflex (reaction)

Startle reflex A reflex seen in normal infants in response to a loud noise. The infant makes a sudden body movement, bringing the legs and arms toward the chest

Stasis A stoppage or slowdown in the flow of blood or other body fluid, such as lymph

Stasis dermatitis A skin irritation on the lower legs generally related to circulatory problems

Stasis ulcer An ulcer (a crater) that develops in an area in which the circulation is sluggish and the venous return (the return of venous blood toward the heart) is poor. A common location for stasis ulcers is on the ankle

Statins A class of drugs that lower cholesterol

Status epilepticus A dangerous condition in
which epileptic fits follow one another without
recovery of consciousness between them

Steatohepatitis Fatty inflammation of the liver, usually in alcoholics

Stein-Leventhal syndrome A hormonal problem that causes women to have various symptoms, including irregular or no menstruation, acne, obesity, and excess hair growth

Stem cell An undifferentiated cell of a multicellular organism which is capable of giving rise to indefinitely more cells of the same type, and from which certain other kinds of cell arise by differentiation

Stenosis A narrowing

Stenotic Narrowed, as in a stenotic artery

Stent A tube designed to be inserted into a vessel or passageway to keep it open

Step therapy The practice of beginning drug therapy for a medical condition with the most cost-effective and safest drug therapy and progressing to other more costly or risky therapy, only if necessary

Steppage gait A manner of walking in which the advancing foot is lifted high so that the toes clear the ground.It is a sign of foot-drop

Stereotactic Referring to precise positioning in three-dimensional space

Stereotaxis Use of a computer and scanning devices to create three-dimensional pictures. Stereotaxis can be used to direct a biopsy, external radiation, or the insertion of radiation implants

Sternal rib One of the first 7 pairs of ribs

Sternum The long flat bone in the upper middle of the front of the chest

Sternutation Sneezing; the sound of sneezing

Sternutator Something that causes a sneeze

Steroid One of a large group of chemical substances classified by a specific carbon structure. Steroids include drugs used to relieve swelling and inflammation, such as prednisone and cortisone; vitamin D; and some sex hormones, such as testosterone and estradiol

Stethoscope An instrument that is used to transmit low-volume sounds such as a heartbeat (or intestinal, venous, or fetal sounds) to the ear of the listener

Stickler A person who insists on a certain quality or type of behaviour

Stickler syndrome A relatively common genetic disorder characterized by very flexible(hyperextensible) joints, typical facial characteristics, hearing loss, and severe nearsightedness with associated eye problems

Stiff baby syndrome A genetic disorder also known as hyperexplexia in which babies have an exaggerated startle reflex

Stillbirth The birth of a dead baby, the delivery of a fetus that has died before birth for which there is no possibility of resuscitation

Stirrup The stapes, one of the three bones in the middle ear

Stockholm syndrome Feelings of trust or affection felt in many cases of kidnapping or hostage-taking by a victim towards a captor

Stoma An opening into the body from the outside that is created by a surgeon

Stomach The digestive organ that is located in the upper abdomen, under the ribs

Stop codon A set of three adjacent bases in the DNA or their complementary bases in messenger RNA that specifies the end of a polypeptide chain. The three stop codons (in messenger RNA) are UAA, UAG, and UGA. They are also called termination codons or
nonsense codons

Subacute Rather recent onset or somewhat rapid change Strabismus A condition in which the visual axes of the eyes are not parallel and the eyes appear to be looking in different directions

Strain An injury to a tendon or muscle resulting from overuse or trauma

Strait Narrow or confined

Strep Very commonly used shortened form of Streptococcus, a very common and important group of bacteria

Stress In a medical or biological context stress is a physical, mental, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension

Striatum Part of the basal ganglia of the brain

Stricture An abnormal narrowing of a body passage, especially a tube or a canal

Stripping Surgery to treat varicose veins

Stroke The sudden death of brain cells due to lack of oxygen, caused by blockage of blood flow or rupture of an artery to the brain

Stroke index A cardiodynamic measure. Stroke volume is the amount of blood the left ventricle ejects in one beat, measured in milliliters per beat (ml/beat). The stroke volume can be indexed to a patient's body size by dividing by the body surface area to yield the stroke index

Strollerobics Aerobics with a stroller. Strollerobics are exercises characteristically performed by new mothers, incorporating strollers that contain their new babies

Stroma The supportive framework of an organ (or gland or other structure),usually composed of connective tissue

Stromal Pertaining to the stroma of an organ

Stromme syndrome A rare genetic condition characterized by birth defects or abnormalities in the eyes, intestines , and skull

Strontium An earth element and metal with atomic no. 38, atomic wt. 87.62 that is used in a radioactive form for imaging tests and as a treatment for cancer

Strontium ranelate An agent consisting of two atoms of stable strontium and ranelic acid. Strontium ranelate stimulates the formation of
new bone tissue and decreases bone resorption (loss). It reduces the risk of vertebral fractures in postmenopausal osteoporosis

Structural genomics The study of the proteome , the three-dimensional structures of thousands upon thousands of proteins, in fact, all of the proteins produced by a species

Structural scoliosis A fixed lateral (sideway) curve of the spine

Subaortic stenosis Narrowing of the left ventricle of the heart just below the aortic valve through which blood must pass on its way up into the aorta. The narrowing cuts the flow of blood

Subarachnoid The space between The arachnoid and the pia mater, the innermost membrane surrounding the central nervous system

Subclavian Under the clavicle (the collar bone), as the subclavian artery or the subclavian vein

Subcutaneous Under the skin

Subcutaneous hematoma A hematoma beneath the skin

Subdeltoid Beneath the deltoid, the large muscle that stretches from the clavicle (collarbone) to the humerus (the long bone in the upper arm) and so covers the shoulder

Subdural Below the dura, the outermost, toughest, and most fibrous of the three membranes (meninges) covering the brain and the spinal cord

Subdural hematoma Bleeding into the space between the dura (the brain cover) and the brain itself

Subglottis The lower part of the larynx, the area from just below the vocal cords down to the top of the trachea

Subjacent Just beneath or underneath

Subject A branch of learning that forms a
course of study or A matter that is studied or otherwise considered

Sublingual Underneath the tongue

Sublingual gland A salivary gland that is located under the floor of the mouth, close to the midline

Subluxation Partial dislocation of a joint

Submandibular gland A salivary gland that is located deep under the mandible (jawbone )

Suboxone Brand name for buprenorphine in combination with naloxone

Subq Abbreviation for subcutaneous

Subscapular Under the scapula

Subscapularis muscle A muscle that moves the arm by turning it inward

Substance Material with particular features or
The material that makes up an organ or structure

Substance abuse The excessive use of a substance, especially alcohol or a drug

Subtelomeric Below the telomere , the end of a chromosome

Subtotal hysterectomy The uterus is surgically removed but the cervix is left is left in place. Also called a partial hysterectomy (or supracervical hysterectomy)

Subutex Brand name for buprenorphine

Subway diet The Subway diet is a weight loss plan popularized in 2004 by Jared Fogle, who claims that he lost over 245 pounds in one year by eating sandwiches from the Subway chain

Succenturiate Substituting for or accessory to an organ

Succenturiate placenta An extra placenta separate from the main placenta

Succumb To lose the will to oppose something or to give up and accept something that you first opposed

Suction-assisted lipectomy Another name for liposuction, the surgical removal of fat deposits from specific parts of the body

Sudoriferous gland The sudoriferous (sweat) glands are small tubular structures situated within and under the skin

Sugar Busters diet A weight loss plan based upon restriction of sugar intake.

Suicidal Pertaining to suicide

Suicide The process of purposely ending one's own life

Suicide gene A gene whose expression in a cell is lethal for that cell

Sulci The plural of sulcus

Sulcus A groove, furrow, or trench

Sulfonamides The sulfa-related group of antibiotics, which are used to treat bacterial infection and some fungal infections

Sulfonylurea A class of oral hypoglycemic agents (medications that lower the level of blood glucose) taken by people with type 2 diabetes

Sumatriptan A triptan drug for the treatment of migraine

Summer cold A popular term for hay fever

Sun poisoning A non-scientific term sometimes used to refer to the serious and even potentially fatal symptoms of severe sunburn and accompanying dehydration

Sun protection factor (SPF) A number on a scale for rating the degree of protection provided by sunscreens

Sunburn An inflammation of the skin that develops in response to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from tanning beds and booths that emit UV radiation. Sunburn is manifested by reddened, painful skin that may develop blisters

Sundowning Also known as Sundown Syndrome, a term used to refer to behavioral changes that often occur in the late afternoon or evening in people with Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions

Sunscreen A substance that blocks the effect of the sun's harmful rays

Super spreader A highly infectious person who spreads the agent of an infectious disease to many other people

Superaspirin This was a popular term for the next generation of analgesics.They were drugs that had the multiple positive effects of aspirin, but not have the negative effects such as intestinal bleeding

Superbug An informal term for a bacterium that has become resistant to antibiotics that usually are used to treat it

Supercentenarian Someone 110 years old or over

Supercilious Arrogant, haughty or disdainful

Superfetation An extremely rare situation in which a pregnant woman becomes pregnant a second time with another (younger) fetus

Superficial On the surface or shallow

Superfluous Beyond what is sufficient. A sixth finger is superfluous

Superfoods A non-medical term popularized in the media to refer to foods that can have health-promoting properties such as reducing one's risk of disease or improving any aspect of physical or emotional health

Superior In antomy, above or over top of

Superior vena cava A large vein that receives blood from the head, neck, upper extremities, and thorax and delivers it to the right atrium of the heart

Superjacent Lying just above or upon

Supernumerary Beyond the normal number, extra

Supertaster A person who has an unusually large density of taste buds, each surrounded by pain fibers. As a result, the person has an exquisite ability to taste accurately

Supination Rotation of the arm or leg outward

Supine With the back or dorsal surface downward. A person who is supine is lying face up

Suppurate To form or discharge pus

Suppurative arthritis Infectious arthritis typically caused by a bacterial infection in the joint

Supraglottis The upper part of the larynx, including the epiglottis; the area above the vocal cords

Supraspinatus muscle The muscle that elevates the arm and moves it away from the body

Suprasternal notch The V-shaped notch at the top of the breastbone

Supraventricular tachycardia Abbreviated SVT. A regular, abnormally fast heart beat caused by rapid firing of electrical impulses from a focus above the atrioventricular node (A-V node) in the heart

Surfactant A fluid secreted by the cells of the alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs ) that serves to reduce the surface tension of pulmonary fluids; surfactant contributes to the elastic properties of pulmonary tissue , preventing the alveoli from collapsing

Surgicenter A facility for minor surgery done on an outpatient basis; a facility designed to serve patients who need surgical treatment exceeding the capabilities of the usual physician's office yet not of such proportions as to require hospitalization

Surrogacy A method of reproduction in which a woman agrees to become pregnant, using her own eggs, and carry a child for another individual or couple

Suture A type of joint between the bones of the skull where the bones are held tightly together by fibrous tissue or A Thread-like material used to sew tissue together

Swallowing syncope The temporary loss of consciousness upon swallowing

Sweat A colorless transparent acidic fluid with a distinctive odor secreted by the small tubular sudoriferous (sweat) glands situated within the skin and under it in the subcutaneous tissue

Swine flu A respiratory illness of pigs caused by infection with swine influenza A virus (SIV)

Sydenham chorea An acute neurologic disorder that emerges several months following a streptococcal infection, most frequently in children between the age of 5 and 15

Sylvatic plague A type of plague that is spread by ground squirrels and other wild rodents

Sympathetic nervous system A part of the nervous system that serves to accelerate the heart rate, constrict blood vessels, and raise blood pressure

Sympathetic ophthalmia Inflammation of the uveal tract of the uninjured eye (sympathizing eye) some weeks after a wound involving the uveal tract of the other eye (exciting eye)

Sympathicoblastoma A childhood tumor, better known today as neuroblastoma, that arises in the adrenal gland or in tissue in the nervous system that is related to the
adrenal gland

Symphysiotomy A surgical procedure that has been used to effect an immediate dramatic increase in the size of the pelvic outlet to permit delivery of a baby

Symphysis pubis The area in the front of the pelvis where the pubic bones meet

Symptom Any subjective evidence of disease

Symptomatic With symptoms, as a symptomatic infection

Synapse A specialized junction at which a neural cell (neuron) communicates with a target cell

Synapsis The side-by-side and point-by-point pairing of homologous chromosomes during meiosis

Synaptic cleft The tiny space between two nerve cells across which the neurotransmitter acetylcholine diffuses

Synaptonemal complex A protein structure that forms between two homologous chromosomes during meiosis and that is thought to mediate chromosome pairing, synapsis, and recombination

Syncephaly Conjoined twins whose heads are joined together

Syncope Partial or complete loss of consciousness with interruption of awareness of oneself and ones surroundings

Syndactyly A condition in which fingers or toes are joined together

Syndecan One of a family of core proteins with sugars attached to the cell surfaces that control or influence tissue repair, metabolism, the formation of tumors and the development of immune responses

Syndemic A set of linked health problems involving two or more afflictions, interacting synergistically, and contributing to excess burden of disease in a population

Syndrome A combination of symptoms and signs that together represent a disease process

Synesthesia A condition in which the normal separation between the senses appears to have broken down

Synesthete A person with synesthesia

Synovectomy Surgical removal of the joint lining

Synovia The joint fluid

Synovial chondromatosis A disorder of a joint featuring a change of the normal joint lining (synovium) tissue's cellular structure to form cartilage tissue

Synovitis Inflammation of the synovial membrane , the lining of the joints

Synuclein A family of structurally related proteins that are prominently expressed in the central nervous system

Syphilis A sexually transmitted disease caused by Treponema pallidum, a microscopic organism called a spirochete

Syphilitic Relating to syphilis, caused by it, or suffering from it.

Syringoma A benign (noncancerous) skin tumor that derives from eccrine cells, specialized cells related to sweat glands

Syrinx A fluid-filled cavity located within the spinal cord (syringomyelia) or brain stem (syringobulbia)

Systole The time period when the heart is contracting

Systolic The blood pressure when the heart is contracting

Terminology 'R'

2018-02-07T07:47:00.001-08:00

Rabbit fever An infection in rabbits and other wild rodents caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis that can be transmitted to humans by contact with infected animal tissues or ticks

Rabies A potentially fatal viral infection that attacks the central nervous system

Race An ethnic stock or division of humans

Racemose Something in a cluster or bunch

Rad A measurement for a dose of ionizing radiation

Radial Pertaining to the radius, the smaller bone in the forearm, or Spreading from a central point

Radiate To spread out from a central area

Radiculopathy Any disease of the spinal nerve roots and spinal nerves

Radioactive Emitting energy waves due to decaying atomic nuclei

Radiography The process of obtaining film records (radiographs) of internal structures of the body

Radioimmunoassay A very sensitive, specific laboratory test that uses radiolabeled and unlabeled substances in an immunological (antibody-antigen) reaction

Radioinsensitive Not sensitive to X-rays and other forms of radiant energy

Radioiodine An isotope of radioactive iodine

Radioisotope A version of a chemical element that has an unstable nucleus and emits radiation during its decay to a stable form.They are use in medical diagnosis, treatment, and research

Radiologic Having to do with radiology

Radiologist A physician specialized in radiology, the branch of medicine that uses ionizing and nonionizing radiation for the diagnosis and treatment of disease

Radiology The medical specialty concerned with radiation for the diagnosis and treatment of disease

Radiolucent Permeable to one or another form of radiation, such as X-rays

Radiomimetic Imitating radiation

Radionuclide An unstable form of a chemical element that radioactively decays, resulting in the emission of nuclear radiation

Radiopaque Opaque to one or another form of radiation, such as X-rays

Radiosensitive Sensitive to X-rays and other forms of radiant energy

Radiotherapy The treatment of disease with ionizing radiation. Also called radiation therapy

Radium The radioactive element

Radon A radioactive element that is formed, as a gas, during the breakdown of radium

Ragweed Any of several weedy composite herbs that produce a pollen to which many people are allergic

Rale An abnormal lung sound that can be heard through a stethoscope

Ramus In anatomy, a branch, such as a branch of a blood vessel or nerve

Randomization The practice of using chance methods (random number tables, flipping a coin, etc.) to assign subjects to treatments

Randomize To use chance alone to assign or arrange

Range In medicine and statistics, the difference between the lowest and highest numeric values

Rape Forced sexual intercourse

Rash Breaking out of the skin

Reabsorption Being absorbed again

Reactive arthritis A painful form of inflammatory arthritis (joint disease due to inflammation)

Reading frame One of the three possible ways to read a nucleotide sequence in DNA, depending on whether reading starts with the first, second, or third base in a triplet

Reagent A substance that is used to produce a chemical reaction

Rebound The reversal of response upon withdrawal of a stimulus

Recalcitrant Stubbornly resists treatment

Receptor In cell biology, a structure on the surface of a cell (or inside a cell) that selectively receives and binds a specific substance.In neurology, a terminal of a sensory nerve that receives and responds to stimuli

Recessive A condition that appears only in individuals who have received two copies of a mutant gene, one copy from each parent

Recipient In medicine, someone who is given something, such as a blood transfusion or an organ transplant, that is derived from another person

Recombinant A person with a new combination of genes, a combination not present in either parent, due to parental recombination of those genes

Recombination The trading of fragments of genetic material between chromosomes before the egg and sperm cells are created

Recrudescence Reappearance, as of a rash or arthritis

Rectal Having to do with the rectum

Rectocele Bulging of the front wall of the rectum into the vagina

Rectum The last 6 to 8 inches of the large intestine that solid waste until it leaves the body through the anus

Rectus A paired muscle running vertically on each side of the anterior wall of the human abdomen, as well as that of some other mammals

Recuperate To recover health and strength

Recur To occur again

Recurrence The return of a sign, symptom, or disease after a remission

Red blood cell The blood cell that carries oxygen

Red eye Also called conjunctivitis. Redness or irritation of the conjunctivae, the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids and the membranes covering the whites of the eyes

Reduction division The first cell division in meiosis , the process by which germ cells are formed

Referral The recommendation of a medical or paramedical professional

Reflex An involuntary reaction

Reflux The term used when liquid backs up into the esophagus from the stomach

Refract In ophthalmology, to determine the bending of light that takes place within the human eye

Refractory Not yielding, or not yielding readily, to treatment

Refsum disease A genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of the fatty acid phytanic acid

Regenerate To reproduce or renew something that was lost

Regimen A plan or a regulated course, such as a diet, exercise, or treatment, that is designed to give a good result

Registry A collection of information

Regress To return or go back, particularly to return to a pattern of behavior or level of skill characteristic of a younger age

Regulatory gene A gene that regulates the expression of other genes

Regulatory region A region of a chromosome that controls gene expression

Regurgitation A backward flowing such as vomiting

Rehabilitation The process of helping a person who has suffered an illness or injury restore lost skills and so regain maximum self-sufficiency

Rehydration The process of restoring lost water (dehydration) to the body tissues and fluids

Reiki A Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing

Reinnervate To restore nerve function after it has been lost

Reinstein syndrome A heritable syndrome characterized by eye disease (specifically, macular degeneration and inverse retinitis pigmentosa), progressive hearing loss, and hypogonadism

Reiter syndrome A type of reactive arthritis that happens as a reaction to a bacterial infection in the body. The infection usually
happens in the intestines, genitals, or urinary tract

Rejection In transplantation biology, when the body's immune system attacks transplanted cells, tissues, or organs

Relapse The return of signs and symptoms of a disease after a remission

Relapsing fever A vector-borne disease caused by infection with certain bacteria in the genus Borrelia, which are transmitted through the bites of lice or soft-bodied ticks

Relaxant Something that relaxes, relieves, or reduces tension

Relaxin A hormone that is produced during pregnancy that facilitates the birth process by causing a softening and lengthening of the cervix and the pubic symphysis. It also inhibits contractions of the uterus and may play a role in determining the timing of delivery

Rem In radiation, an international unit of X-ray or gamma-ray radiation adjusted for the atomic makeup of the human body

Remedy Something that consistently helps treat or cure a disease

Remission Disappearance of the signs and symptoms of cancer or other disease.It can be temporary or permanent

Renal Having to do with the kidney

Repeat In genetics , two or more adjacent copies of an identical pattern of nucleotides in the DNA, as in tandem repeat sequences

Reperfusion The restoration of blood flow to an organ or to tissue

Repetitive DNA DNA sequences that are repeated in the genome. These sequences do not code for protein

Replantation In surgery, the restoration of any part of the body to its original site

Replication In genetics, the process by which double-stranded DNA makes copies of itself, each strand, as it separates, synthesizing a complementary

Reproduction The production of offspring

Reproductive cells The cells that take part in reproductive process such as sperm and egg

Reproductive system A system of sex organs within an organism which work together for the purpose of sexual reproduction

Resect To remove

Resectable Able to be removed by surgery

Resection Surgical removal of part of an organ

Reservoir A place where something is kept in reserve

Resident In medicine, a physician who has finished medical school and is receiving training in a specialized area, such as surgery, internal medicine , pathology, or radiology

Residual Something left behind

Resistance Opposition to something, or the ability to withstand something

Resolution In genetics , the degree of molecular detail on a physical map of DNA

Resorb To absorb again, to lose substance

Resorption The process of losing substance

Respiration The act of inhaling and exhaling air in order to exchange oxygen for carbon dioxide

Respiratory Having to do with respiration

Restenosis Renarrowing, as in restenosis of a coronary artery after angioplasty

Resting phase More appropriately called interphase. The interval in the cell cycle between two cell divisions

Restitution In cytogenetics, the spontaneous rejoining of broken chromosomes to reconstitute the original chromosome configuration

Restriction enzyme An enzyme from bacteria that can recognize specific base sequences in DNA and cut the DNA at that site

Restriction map An array of sites in DNA susceptible to cleavage by diverse restriction enzymes

Restriction site A sequence in DNA that can be recognized and cut by a specific restriction enzyme

Resuscitate To restore to life

Resuscitation The procedure of restoring to life

Resveratrol An antioxidant present in many plants

Retic Short for reticulocyte

Reticulocyte A young red blood cell that usually remains in the bone marrow with only a few venturing out into the circulating blood

Reticulocytosis An elevation in the number of reticulocytes in blood, a sign of unusually rapid red blood cell production

Retina The nerve layer that lines the back of the eye , senses light, and creates impulses that travel through the optic nerve to the brain

Retinal Pertaining to the retina, the extraordinary layer of neurons that line the back of the eye

Retinoblastoma A malignant eye tumor usually seen in children, that arises in cells in the developing retina that contain cancer-predisposing mutations in both copies of the gene RB1

Retinoid Vitamin A (retinol) or a naturally occurring or synthetic substance chemically related to it

Retinol An animal form of Vitamin A

Retinoschisis Splitting of the retina

Retrodiagnosis Retrospective diagnosis

Retrograde amnesia Amnesia in which the lack of memory relates to events that occurred before a traumatic event

Retromingent Urinating backwards

Retroposition Simple backward displacement of a structure or organ such as the uterus

Retrospective Looking backward on the past, on what has already taken place

Retrosternal Behind the sternum

Retrovirus A virus that is composed not of DNA but of RNA

Reuptake The reabsorption of a secreted substance by the cell that originally produced and secreted it

Rh factor An antigen found on the surface of red blood cells

Rh incompatibility The difference in Rh blood group types between an Rh negative mother and her Rh positive baby that leads to hemolytic disease of the newborn

Rhabdomyolysis A condition in which skeletal muscle is broken down, releasing muscle enzymes and electrolytes from inside the muscle cells

Rhabdomyosarcoma A fast-growing malignancy of muscle that mainly affects children but can occur at any age

Rheumatic fever An inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of inadequately treated strep throat or scarlet fever,caused by an infection with streptococcus bacteria

Rheumatism Any disease marked by inflammation and pain in the joints, muscles, or fibrous tissue, especially rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid factor An antibody that is measurable in the blood and is used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid nodules Firm lumps in the skin of
patients with rheumatoid arthritis that usually occur in pressure points of the body, most commonly the elbows

Rheumatologist A specialist in the non-surgical treatment of rheumatic illnesses, especially arthritis

Rheumatology A subspecialty of internal medicine that involves the nonsurgical evaluation and treatment of rheumatic diseases and conditions

Rhinitis Irritation of the nose

Rhinophyma A bulbous enlarged red nose and
puffy cheeks

Rhinoplasty Plastic surgery on the nose, known familiarly as a nose job

Rhinorrhea Medical term for a runny nose

Rhinotillexomania Compulsive nose picking

Rhinovirus Most common viral infectious agent in humans and is the predominant cause of the common cold

RhoGAM RhO(D) immune globulin an injectable drug that is used to protect an Rh+ fetus from antibodies in an Rh-mother's blood and to prevent Rh allergy in the mother

Rib One of the 12 paired arches of bone that form the skeletal structure of the chest wall

Rib cage The bony frame formed by the ribs round the chest

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) A nucleic acid molecule similar to DNA but containing ribose rather than deoxyribose

Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) A combination of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and protein

Ribosomal RNA A molecular component of a ribosome Ribosomal which fabricates polypeptides

Ribosome A tiny structure in the cytoplasm of a cell (outside the nucleus) that functions as the protein factory for the cell

Ribozyme An RNA molecule that can catalyze its own chemical reactions

Ricin A potent protein toxin made from the waste left over from processing castor beans

Rickets A disease of infants and children that disturbs normal bone formation (ossification), leading to failure to mineralize bone

Rickettsia A member of a group of microorganisms that (like viruses) require other living cells for growth but (like bacteria) use oxygen, have metabolic enzymes and cell walls, and are susceptible to antibiotics

Rickettsioses The infectious diseases caused by the rickettsiae

Rigor A chill, usually with shivering, as at the onset of high fever and chills. Or Rigidity, as in rigor mortis, the rigidity of a body after death

Rigor mortis The rigidity of a body after death

Ring chromosome A structurally abnormal chromosome in which the end of each chromosome arm has been lost and the broken arms have been reunited to form a ring. A ring chromosome is denoted by the symbol r

Risk factor Something that increases a person's chances of developing a disease

Ritter disease A spectrum of superficial blistering skin disorders caused by the exfoliative toxins of some strains of Staphylococcus aureus

River blindness A disease caused by a parasitic worm (Onchocerca volvulus) that is transmitted by biting blackflies that breed in fast-flowing rivers

RNA editing The process by which mRNA is modified after it is synthesized before it is translated into protein

RNA interference The process by which the introduction of double-stranded RNA into a cell interferes with the expression of genes

RNA polymerase The enzyme that makes the very large molecule RNA, by joining together many smaller molecules, using DNA as a template

RNA virus A virus in which the genetic material is RNA. The RNA may be either double- or single-stranded

Roapies Street term for Rohypnol

Robo Street name for the cough syrup

Robotripping Street name for the high produced by abuse of the cough syrup

Robust In statistics, a term applied to a test or procedure that is not seriously disturbed by violations of the assumptions on which it is based

Rod A type of specialized light-sensitive cell (photoreceptor) in the retina of the eye that provides side vision and the ability to see objects in dim light (night vision)

Rodenticide A chemical or other agent used to destroy rats or other rodent pests or prevent them from damaging food, crops etc

Roentgen An international unit of X-ray or gamma-ray radiation

Roentgenology Radiology, the science of radiation and, specifically, the use of both ionizing (like X-ray) and nonionizing (like ultrasound) modalities for the diagnosis and treatment of disease

Rohypnol The trade name for flunitrazepam, which has been abused as a 'date rape' drug

Roofies Street term for Rohypnol

Rooting reflex A reflex that is seen in normal newborn babies, who automatically turn the face toward the stimulus and make sucking motions with the mouth when the cheek or lip is touched. The rooting reflex helps to ensure successful breastfeeding

Rosacea A chronic skin disease that causes persistent redness over the areas of the face and nose that normally blush: mainly the forehead, the chin, and the lower half of the nose

Rosacea keratitis A condition affecting the eyes in about half of all cases of rosacea. It is characterized by burning and grittiness of the eyes

Roseola A childhood illness caused by virus infection characterized by high fevers followed by a skin rash

Rotavirus A virus that is a leading cause of severe diarrhea and dehydration in young children

Round To go around and see a patient in a hospital or other in-patient setting

Rubor Redness

Rule out Term used in medicine, meaning to eliminate or exclude something from consideration

Rumination The action of chewing the cud

Runny nose The production of extra mucus by the nose

Rupture A break or tear in any organ or soft tissue

Terminology 'Q'

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Q fever An infectious disease due to the bacterium Coxiella burnetii whose symptoms include fever, headache, malaise, and pneumonia.The Q stands for query because the cause of the disease was long a question mark

Quack A person who dishonestly claims to have special knowledge and skill in some field, typically medicine

Quackery Deliberate misrepresentation of the ability of a substance, a device, or a person to
prevent or treat disease

Quadrant A quarter of an area

Quadriparesis Weakness of all four limbs, both arms and both legs

Quadriplegia Paralysis of all four limbs, both arms and both legs

Qualitative Having to do with quality

Quality of life The patient's ability to enjoy normal life activities

Qualm Sickness, disease, pestilence, or death

Quantitative Having to do with quantity

Quarantine A period of isolation decreed to control the spread of infectious disease

Quasidiploid Describing a cell that seems to have the usual two full sets of 23 chromosomes, but does not

Quasidominant Pattern of inheritance that seems due to a dominant trait but is in fact due to the mating of a person who has a recessive disorder

Queasy A feeling of nausea

Quickening The moment during pregnancy when the baby is first felt to move

Quiescence The state of not dividing of cells

Quiescent Inactive, resting

Quinacrine An antimalarial drug and, in cytogenetics , a fluorescent dye used to stain chromosomes

Quinine The original antimalarial agent

Quinquagenarian Someone in his or her fifties

Quinsy Inflammation of the throat, especially an abscess in the region of the tonsils

Quotidian Recurring each day, as in a fever that returns every day

Quotient The result of mathematical division

Terminology 'P'

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Pacemaker A system that sends electrical impulses to the heart in order to set the heart rhythm

Pachydactyly Thick fingers or toes

Pachyderma Thick skin like that of an an elephant, rhinoceros, or hippopotamus

Pachymeninges The dura. From pachy means (thick) + meninges means(membranes)

Pachymeninx The dura.The singular of pachymeninges

Pachyonychia An abnormally thick nail ,like finger nail or toe nail of an elephant

Pacifier An artificial nipple, usually made of plastic

Paediatrics Pediatrics in Great Britain

Page kidney Chronic long standing compression of the kidney resulting in hypertension

Paget disease A localized disorder of bone remodeling that typically begins with excessive bone resorption followed by an increase in bone formation, that can cause bones to weaken and may result in bone pain, arthritis, deformities or fractures

Pagetic Pertaining to Paget disease

Pain An unpleasant sensation that can range from mild, localized discomfort to agony

Pain management The process of providing medical care that alleviates or reduces pain

Pain unit A measurement of the intensity of pain

Palate The roof of the mouth

Palatine Anatomically, pertaining to the palate

Pale globe A pale-appearing spherical area in the brain.Also called the globus pallidus

Paleostriatum The old stratum, a pale-appearing spherical area in the brain, specifically part of the lentiform nucleus

Palindrome In genetics, a DNA or RNA sequence that reads the same in both directions.The sites of many restriction enzymes that cut (restrict) DNA are palindromes

Palindromic Pertaining to a palindrome

Palliate To treat partially and incompletely

Palliation To palliate

Pallidotomy A surgical operation performed on the globus pallidus to destroy it, in oder to relieve involuntary movements or muscular rigidity

Pallidum Part of basal ganglia of the brain which consist of the globus pallidus and the ventral pallidum

Palm The grasping side of the hand

Palmar Pertaining to the palm.The ancient Romans used the word "palma" for the outstretched palm of the hand

Palmitate An antioxidant and a vitamin A compound that is added to low fat and fat free milk to replace the vitamin content lost through the removal of milk fat

Palpable Something that can be felt

Palpate To touch or feel

Palpebra Medical term for eyelid

Palpitations Unpleasant sensations of irregular and/or forceful beating of the heart

Palsy Paralysis, generally partial, whereby a local body area is incapable of voluntary movement

Panacea A universal remedy

Pancolitis Ulcerative colitis that involves the entire colon

Pancreas A spongy, tube-shaped organ that is about 6 inches long and is located in the back of the abdomen,behind the stomach

Pancreatitis Inflammation of the pancreas

Pancytopenia Shortage of all types of blood cells

Pandemic An epidemic of infectious disease that has spread across a large region; for instance multiple continents, or even worldwide

Pandiculation The act of stretching and yawning

Panhypopituitarism Inadequate or absent production of the anterior pituitary hormones due to various causes

Panic A sudden strong feeling of fear that prevents reasonable thought or action

Panmixus Random mating

Panniculus A sheet or layer of tissue

Panuveitis A serious inflammation of the uveal tract of the eye

Papillary muscle A small muscle within the heart that anchors the heart valves

Papilledema Swelling of the head of the optic nerve, a sign of increased intracranial pressure

Papilloma A small solid benign tumor with a clear-cut border that projects above the surrounding tissue

Papillomatosis A disorder that is characterized by the growth of numerous papillomas

Paprika A ground spice made from dried red fruits of the larger and sweeter varieties of the plant Capsicum annuum

Papular Referring to papules

Papule A solid, rounded growth (a pimple) that is elevated from the skin, usually less than 1cm

Papuliferous Having pimples

Para Any woman who has given birth once or more

Parabiosis A technique used in physiology research to test how circulating factors in the
blood of one organism act on another different organism

Paracentesis The removal of fluid from a body cavity via a needle, a trocar, a cannula, or another hollow instrument

Paragonimiasis Infection with the trematode (parasitic worm) Paragonimus

Parainfectious Occurring at the time of and in association with an acute infection or an episode of infection

Parainfluenza A disease due to an acute respiratory infection caused by a parainfluenza virus

Paralysis Loss of voluntary movement

Paramyxovirus One of a group of RNA viruses that are predominantly responsible for acute respiratory diseases and are usually transmitted by airborne droplets

Paraneoplastic syndrome A group of signs and symptoms caused by a substance that is produced by a tumor or in reaction to a tumor

Paraoxonase An enzyme associated with high density lipoprotein (HDL) that is believed to protect against the oxidation of low density lipoprotein (LDL ) and hence to affect the risk of coronary artery disease

Paraparesis Weakness of the lower extremities

Paraphilia One of several complex psychiatric disorders that are manifested as deviant sexual behavior

Paraphimosis A condition in which the foreskin of the penis, once retracted, cannot return to its original location which causes blood to pool in the veins behind the entrapment, leading to swelling and severe pain

Paraplegia Paralysis of the lower part of the body, including the legs

Paraplegic Pertaining to paraplegia

Paraquat A toxic chemical widely used as an herbicide (plant killer), primarily for weed and grass control

Parasite A plant or an animal organism that lives in or on another and takes its nourishment from that other organism

Parasitemia The presence of parasites in the blood

Parasitic Having to do with a parasite

Parasitosis Infestation or infection with parasites

Parasomnia A sleep disorder in which odd or dangerous events occur that intrude on sleep

Parasplenic Located near or alongside of the spleen

Parasuicide An apparent attempt at suicide, commonly called a suicidal gesture, in which the aim is not death

Parathormone A hormone that is made by the parathyroid glands and is critical to maintaining calcium and phosphorus balance

Parathyroidectomy Surgical removal of one or more of the parathyroid glands

Parenchyma The functional tissue of an organ as distinguished from the connective and supporting tissue

Parentalism A parent's attitude of dominance over one or more children

Parentectomy The removal of a caring parent in a child's life, following separation or divorce

Parenteral Not delivered via the intestinal tract

Paresis Incomplete paralysis

Paresthesia An abnormal sensation of the body, such as numbness, tingling, or burning

Paricalcitol A man-made form of vitamin D

Parietal Relating to or denoting the wall of the body or of a body cavity or hollow structure

Parkinson disease A long-term degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that mainly affects the motor system

Parkinsonism A syndrome similar to Parkinson disease

Paronychia Inflammation of the folds of tissue surrounding the nail due to infection or inflammation

Parotid gland The largest of the three major salivary glands, located in front and below the ear and behind the jaw bone

Parotids Salivary glands situated in front of the ears

Parotitis Inflammation of the parotid glands

Paroxysm A violent attack due to the sudden occurrence of symptoms

Parthenogenesis Development of a germ cell without fertilization

Parturition The process of delivering the baby and placenta from the uterus to the vagina to the outside world

Parumbilical Near the umbilicus (the belly button)

Passive immunity Immunity produced by the transfer to one person of antibodies that were produced by another person

Pasteurization A method of treating food by heating it to a certain point to kill pathogenic organisms without harming the flavor or quality of the food

Patella The kneecap

Patellectomy An operation to remove a shattered patella

Patent ductus Failure of the ductus arteriosus, which functions in fetal life as an arterial shunt, to close on schedule at or shortly after birth

Patent urachus A surgery to repair a bladder defect

Paterfamilias The male head of the family

Paternal Pertaining to the father

Pathogen An agent of disease

Pathogenesis The development of a disease and the chain of events leading to that disease

Pathogenetic Pertaining to genetic cause of a disease or condition

Pathogenic Capable of causing disease

Pathognomonic A sign or symptom that is so characteristic of a disease that it can be used to make a diagnosis

Pathologic Indicative of or caused by disease

Pathology The study of disease

Pathophysiology Deranged function in an individual or an organ due to a disease

pathy suffering or disease

Patient A person under health care

Peccant Unhealthy. Causing illness or disease

Pectoral muscles Muscles of the anterior chest

Pectus carinatum A malformation of the chest
characterized by a protrusion of the sternum and ribs

Pectus excavatum An abnormal development of the rib cage where the breastbone caves in, resulting in a sunken chest wall deformity

Pediatric Pertaining to children

Pediatrics The branch of medicine that involves the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents

Pediculicide An agent that destroys lice

Pediculosis Infested with lice

Pedigree The recorded ancestry or lineage of a person or family

Pedodontics Children's dentistry

Pedophilia Adult sexual fondness for and activity with children

Pedophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of babies and children

Pee An informal term for urination

Pellagra A disease due to deficiency of niacin, a B-complex vitamin

Pelvic Having to do with the pelvis

Pelvis The lower part of the abdomen,located between the hip bones

Pemphigus A skin disease in which watery blisters form on the skin

Pendred syndrome A disorder typically associated with hearing loss and a thyroid condition called a goiter

Penetrance The probability of a gene or trait being expressed

Penicillin A group of antibiotics used to treat a large range of bacterial infections

Penile Of or pertaining to the penis

Penis The external male sex organ

Penrose drain A soft tube-shaped rubber or silicone drain

Pentapeptide A peptide consisting of five amino acids

Peptidase An enzyme that can break down a peptide into its component amino acids

Peptide A molecule consisting of 2 or more amino acids but smaller than protein

Peptidomimetic A compound that mimics the biological action of a peptide

Percentile A measure used in statistics indicating the value below which a given percentage of observations in a group of observations fall

Percutaneous Through the skin

Perfusion A chemotherapy technique that may be used when melanoma occurs on an arm or leg

Perianal Located around the anus, the opening of the rectum to the outside of the body

Periaortic Around the aorta

Periappendiceal Near the appendix

Pericardial Referring to the pericardium

Pericarditis Inflammation of the lining around the heart

Pericardium A double-walled sac containing the heart and the roots of the great vessels

Perichondrial Having to do with the perichondrium

Perichondritis Inflammation of the perichondrium

Perichondrium The connective tissue that
envelops cartilage where it is not at a joint

Perichondroma A benign tumor that arises from the perichondrium

Perimenopause The time in a woman's life when physiological changes occur that begin the transition to menopause

Perinatal Pertaining to the period immediately before and after birth

Perinatology A branch of medicine that focuses on managing health concerns of the mother and fetus prior to, during, and shortly after pregnancy

Perineal Pertaining to the perineum

Perineum The area between the anus and the scrotum in the male and between the anus and the vulva in the female

Periodontal Having to do with the gums and supporting structures of the teeth

Periodontics The branch of dentistry concerned with the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth

Periodontitis Inflammation around the tooth

Perionychia An inflammation of the folds of tissue surrounding the nail due to infection

Perionychium The tissue surrounding the nail

Perioperative A process or treatment occurring or performed at or around the time of an operation

Periosteal Pertaining to the periosteum

Periosteoma A benign tumor that arises from the periosteum

Periosteum A dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones except at the surfaces of the joints

Periostitis Inflammation of the periosteum

Periostoma A benign tumor arising from the periosteum

Peripheral Situated away from the center, as opposed to centrally located

Periphery The outside or surface of a structure

Peristalsis The rippling motion of muscles in the digestive tract

Peritoneal Having to do with the peritoneum

Peritoneum The membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the abdominal organs

Peritonitis Inflammation of the peritoneum

Pernicious anemia Low red blood cell count caused by inadequate vitamin B12

Perspiration The secretion of fluid by the sweat (sudoriferous) glands

Pertussis Also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease,caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis is known for uncontrollable, violent coughing which often makes it hard to breathe

Pesthouse A hospital where people suffering from infectious disease were once confined and sometimes treated

Pesticide A chemical used to control, repel, or destroy pests of any sort

Pestilence A fatal epidemic disease, especially bubonic plague

Pestis The plague. An infectious disease due to a bacterium called Yersinia pestis

Petechiae Pinpoint flat round red spots under the skin surface caused by intradermal hemorrhage (bleeding into the skin)

Peyronie disease A condition of uncertain cause in which a plaque (a hard lump) forms on the upper or lower side of the penis in layers containing erectile tissue resulting sometimes in severe curvature of the penis

Pfeiffer syndrome A genetic disorder characterized by the premature fusion of certain skull bones (craniosynostosis).This early fusion prevents the skull from growing normally and affects the shape of the head and face resulting in bulging eyes (proptosis) due to shallow eye sockets.It also affects bones in the hands and feet

Phacoemulsification A modern cataract surgery in which the eye's internal lens is emulsified with an ultrasonic handpiece and aspirated from the eye

Phage Short for bacteriophage

Phagocyte A cell that can engulf particles, such as bacteria and other microorganisms or foreign matter

Phagocytosis The process by which a cell engulfs particles such as bacteria, other microorganisms, aged red blood cells, foreign matter, etc

Phalangeal Pertaining to a phalanx

Phalanges The bones of the fingers and of the toes

Phalanx Anatomically, any one of the bones in the fingers or toes

Phantom tooth Persistent pain in the area from which a tooth has been extracted

Phantom vision A phenomenon that involves seeing images after loss of eyesight

Pharmacist Also known as chemists or druggists, are
healthcare professionals who practice in pharmacy, the field of health sciences focusing on safe and effective medication use

Pharmacogenetics The convergence of pharmacology and genetics , which deals with genetically determined responses to drugs

Pharmacogenomics The study of how variations in the human genome affect the response to medications

Pharmacology The study of the body's reaction to drugs

Pharmacopeia An official authoritative listing of medications

Pharmacy A location where prescription medications are sold

Pharyngeal Having to do with the pharynx

Pharyngitis Inflammation of the pharynx

Pharynx Cone-shaped passageway leading from the oral and nasal cavities in the head to the esophagus and larynx

Phenocopy An environmentally induced, nongenetic alteration of a phenotype to a form that resembles the expression of a known genetic mutation

Phenol A poisonous corrosive compound obtained by the distillation of coal tar that, in dilute solution, is an antimicrobial agent . Also called carbolic acid

Phenolphthalein A compound used as a laboratory reagent and acid-base indicator and also used in over-the-counter (OTC) laxative preparations

Phenotype A description of your actual physical characteristics like your height and eye color , but also your overall health, your disease etc

Phenylalanine An essential amino acid that cannot be make by the body and essential to take it in diet

Phenylketonuria An inherited disorder that increases the levels of a substance called phenylalanine in the blood

Pheresis Procedure in which the blood is filtered, separated, and a portion retained, with the remainder being returned to the individual

Pheromone An agent secreted by an individual that produces a change in the sexual or social behavior of another individual of the same species

Philtrum The area from below the nose to the upper lip

Phimosis A condition in which the foreskin of the penis is too tight to be pulled back to reveal the glans

Phlebitis Inflammation of a vein

Phlebotomist A person who draws blood for diagnostic tests or to remove blood for treatment purposes

Phlebotomy Obtaining blood from a vein

Phobia An unreasonable sort of fear that can cause avoidance and panic

Phocomelia A birth defect in which the hands and feet are attached to abbreviated arms and legs

Phonosurgery Surgical procedures that maintain, restore, or enhance the human voice

Phosphate A form of phosphoric acid

Phospholipase An enzyme that catalyzes the splitting of a phospholipid molecule by the addition of water

Phosphorus An essential element in the diet and a major component of bone

Phosphorylation A biochemical process that involves the addition of phosphate to an organic compound

Photocoagulation The use of a laser beam or other intense light source to coagulate and destroy or
fuse small areas of tissue, especially in the retina

Photodynamic therapy A form of phototherapy involving light and a photosensitizing chemical substance, used in conjunction with molecular oxygen to elicit cell death

Photokeratitis A burn of the cornea by ultraviolet B rays (UVB). Also called radiation keratitis or snowblindness

Photophobia Painful oversensitivity to light

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) A kind of laser eye surgery designed to change the shape of the cornea to eliminate or reduce the need for glasses and contact lenses

Photosensitivity Oversensitivity of skin to light

Phototherapy Treatment with light

Phrenology The study of variations in the size, shape, and proportion of the cranium

Phthisis Pulmonary tuberculosis or a similar progressive wasting disease

Phylogenetics The study of the relationships between organisms based on how closely they are related to each other

Physiatrist A physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation

Physician A person who is trained in the art of healing

Physiologic Something that is normal, that is due neither to anything pathologic nor significant in terms of causing illness

Physiology The branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts

Phytochemical Natural chemical compounds
found in plants, which possess biological activities beneficial to human health

Phytodermatitis Inflammation of the skin caused by a plant

Phytonutrients Also called phytochemical. A substance found in certain plants which is believed to be beneficial to human health and help prevent various diseases.These chemicals also help protect plants from germs, fungi, bugs, and other threats

Phytotoxin A poison in a plant

Piercing Using a sharp instrument, usually a needle, to make a temporary or permanent hole through an earlobe or other body part

Pigment A substance that gives color to tissue

Pigmentation The coloring of the skin, hair, mucous membranes, and retina of the eye, due to the deposition of the pigment melanin, which is produced by specialized cells called melanocytes

Piles Swollen blood vessels in or around the anus and rectum, commonly known as piles

Pill In pharmacy, a medicinal substance in a small round or oval mass meant to be swallowed

Piloerection Involuntary erection or bristling of hairs due to a sympathetic reflex usually triggered by cold, shock, or fright or due to a
sympathomimetic agent

Pilonidal Refers to an embedded (ingrown) hair or tuft of hair

Pilonidal cyst An abscess that occurs in the cleft between the buttocks at the base of the tailbone

Pilonidal sinus A small hole or tunnel in the skin at the top of the buttocks, where they divide (the cleft).It doesn't always causes symptomsand only needs to be treated if it becomes infected

Pimple An inflamed area of the skin with pus formation that results from an oil gland being infected with bacteria

Pimply Having pimples

Pineal gland A small endocrine gland in the
vertebrate brain. The pineal gland produces melatonin, a serotonin derived hormone which modulates sleep patterns in both circadian and seasonal cycles.Pineal gland also known as pineal body, epiphysis cerebri, epiphysis or the "third eye"

Pinealoma An uncommon slow growing tumor of the pineal gland

Pinel system The policy of treating the mentally ill in hospitals and other institutions humanely and without the use of forcible restraints of any type

Pineocytoma An uncommon slow growing tumor of the pineal gland

Pinguecula A growth that looks like a yellow spot or bump on the conjunctiva. It often appears on the side of the eye near your nose. A pinguecula is a deposit of protein, fat, or calcium

Pinguicula Alternate spelling of pinguecula

Pinkeye Also called conjunctivitis. Redness or irritation of the conjunctivae, the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids and the membranes covering the whites of the eyes

Pinna The part of the ear that projects like a little wing from the head

Pinnate Like the pinna

Pinocytosis A cellular process that permits the active transport of fluid from outside the cell through the membrane surrounding the cell into the inside of the cell

Pinosome A tiny fluid-filled vesicle within a cell

Piperine A pungent alkaloid that is concentrated in the outer skin of pepper berries and is found in other spices and vegetables including jalapeno peppers. Piperine is used as a flavoring and as an insecticide

Piriformis muscle A muscle that begins at the front surface of the sacrum (the V-shaped bone between the buttocks, at the base of the spine) and passes through the greater sciatic notch to attach to the top of the thighbone (femur) at its bony prominence

Piriformis syndrome Irritation of the sciatic nerve that is caused by compression of the nerve within the buttock by the piriformis muscle

Pisa syndrome A rare neurological disorder which occurs due to prolonged exposure to antipsychotic drugs which may also be referred to as neuroleptics,characterized
by dystonia, abnormal and sustained involuntary muscle contraction

Piss To urinate

Pitting edema Swelling of body tissues due to fluid accumulation that may be demonstrated by applying pressure to the swollen area ,such as by depressing the skin with a finger

Pituitary Pertaining to the pituitary gland or its hormonal secretions

Pityriasis alba A mild form of eczema that occurs in young children and adolescents and produces mild patchy lightening and slight scaling of the skin of the face, the shoulders, or trunk

Pityriasis rosea A common mild rash of unknown origin that can appear on a person of any age ,most commonly at 10-35 years of age

Placebo A substance or treatment with no active therapeutic effect

Placenta A temporary organ that joins the mother and fetus, transferring oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus and permitting the release of carbon dioxide and waste products from the fetus

Plague An infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Symptoms include fever, weakness and headache. Usually this begins one to seven days after exposure

Plano In practical optics, a surface that has been worked flat

Plantar Having to do with the sole of the foot

Plaque A sticky deposit on teeth in which bacteria proliferate or a patch of a small area of skin that appears different than the surrounding skin and is usually raised

Plasma The liquid part of the blood and lymphatic fluid, which makes up about half of the volume of blood. Plasma is devoid of cells and, unlike serum, has not clotted

Plasma cell A type of white blood cell that produces and secretes antibodies

Plasmacytoma Cancer of the plasma cells that may turn into multiple myeloma

Plasmapheresis A procedure in which whole blood is taken from a person and separated into plasma and blood cells; the plasma is removed and replaced with another solution, such as saline solution, albumin, or specially prepared donor plasma; and the reconstituted solution is then returned to the patient

Plasmid A circle of DNA that is self-replicating and distinct from the normal genome of bacteria

Plasmodium The genus of the class of Sporazoa that includes the parasite that causes malaria

Platelet An irregular, disc-shaped element in the blood that assists in blood clotting

plegia Paralysis or a stroke

Pleiotropic Producing or having multiple effects from a single gene

Pleomorphic Able to assume different forms

Pleonasm An excess in the number of parts or in the size of a growth

Plethoric Florid, red-faced

Pleura One of the two membranes around the lungs

Pleural Pertaining to the pleura

Pleurisy Inflammation of the pleurae

Pleuritis Inflammation of the pleura which may be caused by infection, injury or tumor

Pleurodesis A procedure that causes the membranes around the lungs to stick together and prevents the buildup of fluid in the space between the membranes

Plexus In medicine, a network or tangle of lymphatic vessels, nerves, or veins

Plumbism Another name for lead poisoning

Plummer's disease Toxic multinodular goiter

Plyometrics Any exercise in which muscles are repeatedly and rapidly stretched and then
contracted

Pneuma The life-giving principle. According to the school of medicine in ancient Alexandria, life was associated with a vapor called the pneuma

Pneumoconiosis Inflammation and irritation caused by deposition of dust or other particulate matter in the lungs

Pneumocystis Pneumocystis jiroveci, the organism that causes pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). Pneumocystis jiroveci is found worldwide, in humans and animals

Pneumocyte One of the cells lining the alveoli (the air sacs) in the lung

Pneumonectomy An operation to remove an entire lung or part of a lung

Pneumonia Inflammation of one or both lungs, with dense areas of lung inflammation

Pneumopericardium Air or other gas in the sac surrounding the heart

Pneumothorax Free air in the chest outside the lung

Podiatrist A specialist in the diagnosis and care of foot disorders, including their medical and surgical treatment

Podocyte Highly specialized cells of the kidney glomerulus that wrap around capillaries and that neighbor cells of the Bowman's capsule

Poikiloderma A skin condition that consists of areas (hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation,
telangiectasias and atrophy)

Point mutation A single nucleotide base change in DNA

Policosanol A product derived from the waxy coating of sugar cane that lowers both the total cholesterol and the low density lipoprotein cholesterol and raises the levels of the high density lipoprotein cholesterol

Polio Also called poliomyelitis, a crippling and potentially deadly infectious disease. It is caused by the poliovirus. The virus spreads from person to person and can invade an infected person's brain and spinal cord, causing paralysis

Polish disease Syphilis

Pollen Small, light, dry protein male sex particles from trees, grasses, flowers, and weeds that may be spread by the wind

Pollex The thumb

Pollices The thumbs.The plural of pollex

Pollinosis Hay fever in response to any allergen

Polony A tiny colony of DNA, about one micron in diameter

Polyarteritis nodosa An autoimmune disease that is characterized by spontaneous inflammation of the arteries and can affect any organ of the body

Polyarticular Involving many joints

Polycentric Having two or more centers

Polyclonal Derived from different cells

Polycythemia Too many red blood cells

Polydactyly More than the normal number of fingers or toes

Polydipsia Constant, excessive drinking as a result of thirst that occur due to untreated or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus

Polygenic Pertaining to two or more genes

Polyhydramnios Too much amniotic fluid

Polymorphic The occurrence of more than one form

Polymorphism The occurrence of two or more clearly different morphs or forms, also referred as alternative phenotypes, in the population of a species

Polymorphonuclear leukocyte A type of white blood cell with a nucleus that is so deeply lobated or divided that the cell looks to have multiple nuclei

Polymyalgia Pain in multiple muscles

Polymyositis An autoimmune inflammatory disease of muscle that begins when white blood cells spontaneously invade muscles

Polyp A mass of tissue that develops on the inside wall of a hollow organ, such as the colon

Polypectomy Removal of a polyps by surgery

Polypeptide A peptide consisting of 2 or more amino acids

Polyphenol The micronutrients with antioxidant activity that play an important role in preventing the progression of diabetes and other diseases

Polyploid Having three or more full sets of chromosomes

Polysomnography Continuous recording of specific physiologic variables during sleep

Polyubiquitination The binding of many ubiquitin molecules to the same target protein

Polyuria The excessive passage of urine resulting in profuse urination and urinary frequency

Pompe disease An inherited deficiency of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase which helps the body break down glycogen

Pontiac fever A flu-like illness caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila contracted by breathing mist that comes from a water source such as air conditioning cooling towers, whirlpool spas, showers,contaminated with the bacteria

Popcorn lung A severe obstructive lung disease that has also been observed in people who consumed microwaved popcorn in large quantities. Popcorn lung is due to chronic exposure to a chemical that is used in making artificial butter flavoring

Popliteal Referring to the back of the knee

Popliteal fossa The hollow behind the knee

Porcine Having to do with swine

Porencephaly A disorder of the central nervous system involving a cyst or cavity in a cerebral hemisphere of the brain

Porphyria A group of disorders that can cause nerve or skin problems

Portal vein A large vein formed by the union of the splenic and superior mesenteric veins

Positional cloning Cloning a gene based simply on knowing its position in the genome without any idea of the function of that gene

Posterior The back or behind

Posteroanterior From back to front

Posthitis Inflammation of the prepuce (the foreskin of the penis)

Postlingual After the development of speech and language

Postmature infant A baby born 2 weeks or more after the usual 9 months of gestation

Postmenopausal After menopause, the period of time after a woman has experienced 12 consecutive months without menstruation

Postop Short for postoperative; after a surgical operation

Postoperative After surgery

Postpartum The period just after delivery

Postpartum psychosis A very serious mental illness that can affect a new mother

Postprandial After mealtime

Postremission therapy Chemotherapy to kill leukemia cells that survive after remission induction therapy

Postural Pertaining to the posture or position of the body

Potomania An intense and persistent desire to drink alcohol to excess

Pott's disease An old term for tuberculosis of the spine that caused softening and collapse of the vertebrae, often resulting in kyphosis

Prandial Of or relating to a meal

Prealbumin One of several plasma proteins

Preauricular tag A rudimentary tag of ear tissue. It often contains a core of cartilage.The tag is typically located just in front of the ear

Precancerous A state of disordered morphology of cells that is associated with an increased risk of cancer. If left untreated, these conditions may lead to cancer

Precocious Unusually early development of intellectual powers, speech, physical traits, and so on

Precursor An inactive substance converted to an active one such as an enzyme, vitamin, or hormone

Prediabetes A common condition in which the blood sugar level is higher than normal but not yet high enough to be considered diagnostic of diabetes

Predispose To render subject, susceptible, or liable

Preeclampsia A condition in pregnancy characterized by abrupt hypertension , albuminuria and edema of the hands, feet, and face

Preemie Short slang for a premature baby

Preexcitation The premature activation of part of the ventricle due to transmission of impulses along an accessory pathway that is not subject to the normal delay at the atrioventricular node

Prefixes Medical words are often put together, cobbled from two or more building blocks

Pregnancy The state of carrying a developing embryo or fetus within the female body

Premenstrual Just before the start of menstruation

Prepubertal Before puberty

Prepuce The fold of skin that covers the head of the penis

Presbycusis Age-related hearing loss with gradually progressive inability to hear, especially high frequency sounds

Presbyopia The loss of the eye's ability to change focus to see near objects

Presenteeism The problem of workers being on the job but, because of medical conditions, not fully functioning

Pressor Causing a rise in blood pressure

Prevalence The proportion of individuals in a population having a disease or characteristic

Priapism Abnormally persistent erection of the penis in the absence of desire

Primordium Organ or tissue in its earliest recognizable stage of development

Prion A small proteinaceous infectious disease causing agent that is believed to be the smallest infectious particle

Private mutation A rare gene mutation that is usually found only in a single family or a small population

Proband The family member through whom a family's medical history comes to attention

Probe A blunt-ended surgical instrument used for exploring a wound or part of the body

Probiotic A microbe that protects its host and prevents disease

Proclivity An inclination or predisposition toward something, especially a strong inherent inclination toward something objectionable

Procollagen A precursor of collagen, the protein that adds strength and support to many body tissues

Proctitis Inflammation of the rectum

Proctology A medical specialty that deals with disorders of the rectum and anus

Prodrug A medication or compound that, after
administration, is metabolized into a pharmacologically active drug

Progeny The children and other descendants

Progeria A rare genetic disorder that causes children to age prematurely

Progesterone A female hormone that prepares the uterus to receive and sustain fertilized eggs

Progestin Any one of a group of steroid hormones that have the effect of progesterone

Prognathism An overly prominent jaw

Prognosis The patient's chance of recovery

Prognostic Pertaining to the prognosis

Programmed cell death If cells are no longer needed, they commit suicide by activating an intracellular death program.It is more commonly called apoptosis

Prokaryote An organism whose cells lack a discrete nucleus and other special subcellular compartments such as bacteria and viruses

Prolactin A hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that stimulates lactation (milk production)

Proliferative Growing and increasing in number rapidly

Proline An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein. A dietary nonessential amino acid and a major constituent of collagen

Promoter A region of DNA that initiates transcription of a particular gene

Pronation A natural movement of the foot that occurs during foot landing while running or walking

Prone With the front (or ventral) surface downward

Prontosil An antibacterial drug discovered in 1932 by a research team at the Bayer Laboratories of the IG Farben conglomerate in Germany. It has a relatively broad effect against Gram-positive cocci but not against enterobacteria

Pronucleus A cell nucleus with a haploid set of chromosomes resulting from meiosis

Prophylactic A medication or a treatment designed and used to prevent a disease from occurring

Prophylaxis The prevention of disease

Propofol A prescription sedative-hypnotic drug that is administered intravenously

Proposita The first identified case of an inherited disease in a family. The proband or index case. Proposita applies when the patient is female, propositus if male

Proprioception The ability to sense stimuli arising within the body regarding position, motion, and equilibrium

Propylthiouracil (PTU) A drug that blocks the production of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland

Prosopagnosia (face blindness) A neurological disorder characterized by an inability to recognize faces

Prospective Looking forward

Prostaglandin A group of lipids made at sites of tissue damage or infection that are involved in dealing with injury and illness

Prostate A gland within the male reproductive system that is located just below the bladder

Prostatitis Inflammation of the prostate gland

Prostatodynia A chronic, painful disease. The
symptoms including chills, fever, pain in the lower back and genital area, body aches, burning or painful urination, and the frequent and urgent need to urinate

Prosthesis An artificial replacement of a part of the body, such as a tooth, a facial bone, the palate, or a joint

Prosthetics The art and science of developing artificial replacements for body parts

Prosthodontist Experts in the restoration and replacement of teeth

Protean Tending or able to change frequently or easily

Protease An enzyme that can split a protein into the peptides

Proteasome Protein complexes which degrade

unneeded or damaged proteins by proteolysis

Protein Macromolecules consisting of one or more long chains of amino acid residues

Proteome The complete set of proteins expressed and modified following their expression by the genome

Prothrombin A coagulation factor that is needed for the normal clotting of blood

Pruritic Itchy

Pseudodementia A situation where a person who has depression also has cognitive impairment that looks like dementia

Pseudogout Inflammation of the joints that is caused by deposits of calcium pyrophosphate crystals, resulting in arthritis, most commonly of the knees, wrists, shoulders, hips, and ankles

Pseudohemophilia A clotting disorder caused by abnormal factor VIII activity, and characterized by a prolonged bleeding time but without the delayed coagulation time of
hemophilia

Psoriasis A noncontagious, chronic skin condition that produces plaques of thickened, scaling skin. The dry flakes of skin scales result from the excessively rapid proliferation of skin cells

Psyche The mind

Psychedelic A psychoactive drug that alters cognition and perception

Psychogenic Caused by the mind or emotions

Psychoimmunology The study of the connections between the mind and the immune system

Psychology The study of the mind and mental processes, especially in relation to behavior

Psychosis A severe mental disorder in which thought and emotions are so impaired that contact is lost with external reality

Pterygium A growth of the conjunctiva or mucous membrane that covers the white part of your eye over the cornea

Ptosis Downward displacement

Pubarche The onset of puberty

Pubis The front center portion of the pelvis

Pudendum The external genitalia, especially those of the female

Puerperium The time immediately after the delivery of a baby

Pulmonary Having to do with the lungs

Pupil The opening of the iris

Purine One of the two classes of bases in DNA and RNA. The purine bases are guanine (G) and adenine (A)

Purpura Hemorrhage into the surface of the skin

Purulent Pertaining to pus

Pus A thick, whitish-yellow fluid that results from the accumulation of white blood cells, liquefied tissue, and cellular debris

Pustule A small collection of pus in the top layer of skin (epidermis ) or beneath it in the dermis

Pustulosis Highly inflammatory skin condition that results in large, fluid-filled, blister-like areas (pustules)

Putamen An area in the brain within a structure called the lentiform nucleus

Pyarthrosis Infectious arthritis

Pycnodysostosis An inherited disorder of bone that causes short stature and abnormally dense brittle bones

Pyelo Short for pyelonephritis, a bacterial infection of the kidney

Pyelogram An X-ray study of the kidneys, especially showing the pelvis and the ureter

Pyridoxine Vitamin B6 plays an important role in the body. It is needed to maintain the health of nerves, skin, and red blood cells

Pyrimidine One of the two classes of bases in DNA and RNA . The pyrimidine bases are thymine (T) and cytosine (C) in DNA and cytosine (C) and uracil (U) in RNA

Pyrosis A burning sensation in the upper abdomen

Pyuria Pus in the urine

Terminology 'O'

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Oat cell cancer A type of lung cancer in which the cells are small, round and resemble oats

Obese If a person's bodyweight is at least
20% higher than it should be, he or she is considered obese

Obesity The state of being well above one's normal weight

Objective In a microscope, the objective (also called the objective lens) is the lens nearest to the object being examined

Observer variation Failure by the observer in a study or test to measure accurately, resulting in error

Obsessive-compulsive disorder A psychiatric disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions, such as cleaning, checking, counting, or hoarding

Obstetrician A physician who specializes in obstetrics

Obstetrics The art and science of managing pregnancy, labor, and the puerperium (the time after delivery

Obstruction Blockage of a passageway

Obtund To dull or blunt

Obverse The opposite side

Occipital The back of the head

Occiput The back of the head

Occlude To close, obstruct, prevent the passage or To bring together

Occlusion The act of occluding

Occult Hidden

Ocean itch An intensely itchy rash due to contact with the tiny thimble jellyfish

Ochronosis Deposition of dark pigment in connective tissues, usually due to alkaptonuria or exposure to chemicals such as phenolic compounds or hydroquinone

Octogenarian Someone in his or her eighties, that is, between 80 and 89 years of age

Ocular Having to do with the eye

Ocular conjunctiva That part of the conjunctiva, a clear membrane of the eye which covers the outer surface of the eye. The other part of the conjunctiva is the palpebral conjunctiva, which lines the inside of the eyelids. The ocular conjunctiva is also called the bulbar conjunctiva

Oculomotor nerve The third cranial nerve, responsible for the nerve supply to muscles around the eye, including the upper eyelid muscle, which raises the eyelid;the extraocular muscle, which moves the eye inward; and the
pupillary muscle, which constricts the pupil

Oculoplastics A reconstructive surgery which includes a wide variety of surgical procedures that deal with the orbit (eye socket), eyelids, tear ducts, and the face. It also deals with the reconstruction of the eye and associated structures

Odynophagia Pain on swallowing food and fluids, a symptom often due to disease of the esophagus

Offspring The progeny, or young,born to a person

Ointment An oil-based preparation that is applied to the skin

Okihiro syndrome Refers to the association of forearm malformations with Duanesyndrome of eye retraction

Olecranon The bony tip of the elbow

Olefaction Common misspelling of olfaction

Olefactory Common misspelling of olfactory

Olfaction The sense of smell

Olfactory Pertaining to olfaction, the sense of smell

Olfactory apparatus The whole system that is needed to have a sense of smell,including the nose and affiliated nerves

Olfactory bulb A neural structure of the vertebrate forebrain involved in olfaction,the sense of smell

Olfactory nerve The first cranial nerve that carries impulses for the sense of smell from the nose to the brain

Oligoarthritis Inflammation of four or fewer joints

Oligoastrocytoma A type of malignant brain tumor that belongs to the category of "mixed" gliomas. Gliomas are brain tumors that begin in glial, or supportive, cells in the brain or spinal cord

Oligodactyly Having fewer than the normal number of fingers or toes

Oligodendrocyte A type of cell in the central nervous system that surround and insulate the long fibers (axons) through which the nerves send electrical messages

Oligodendroglioma A type of glioma that originate from the oligodendrocytes of the brain or from a glial precursor cell

Oligohydramnios Too little amniotic fluid

Oligomenorrhea Less menstrual blood flow than usual

Oligonucleotide A short DNA molecule that is composed of relatively few nucleotide bases

Oligopeptide A molecule that is composed of a few amino acids linked to one another

Oligospermia Fewer sperm than usual

Oliguria Less urination than normal

Oliva The olive, a structure in the brain

Olivae The olives, twin structures in the brain

Olivary Pertaining to the olive, a structure in the brain

Olive In neuroanatomy, a rounded oval prominence on the surface of the medulla oblongata in the brain

Omega-3 fatty acids A class of essential fatty acids found in fish oils,especially from salmon and other cold-water fish, that acts to lower the levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein in the blood

Omentectomy Surgery to remove part or all of the omentum , an large apron of fatty tissue containing veins, arteries, lymphatics

Omentum A sheet of fat that is covered by peritoneum

Omphalocele A birth defect in which an infant's intestine or other abdominal organs are outside of the body because of a hole in the belly button (navel) area. The intestines are covered only by a thin layer of tissue

Onchocerciasis River blindness, a disease caused by a parasitic worm (Onchocerca volvulus) which is transmitted to persons by biting blackflies (buffalo gnats) that breed in fast-flowing rivers

Oncogene A gene that has the potential to cause cancer

Oncology The field of medicine that is devoted to cancer

Oneiric Relating to dreams

Oneirophrenia Dream-like state caused by several conditions such as prolonged sleep deprivation, sensory deprivation, or drugs

Onset In medicine, the first appearance of the signs or symptoms of an illness

Onychocryptosis An ingrown nail, a common form of nail disease. It is an often painful condition in which the nail grows so that it cuts into one or both sides of the paronychium or nail bed

Onychodystrophy Malformation of the nails

Onychogryphosis An overgrowth and curving of the nails

Onychogryposis Abnormally thick curved fingernails or toenails

Onycholysis Loosening of a nail from the nail bed, usually starting at the border of the nail. The nail tends to turn whitish or yellowish, reflecting the presence of air under it

Onychomycosis Fungus infection of the nail bed under the fingernails or toenails

Onychoosteodysplasia This is the nail-patella syndrome, an hereditary condition characterized by abnormally formed or absent nails and by absent or underdeveloped kneecaps

Oocyte A female germ cell in the process of development

Oogenesis The process of egg formation

Oogonium An ancestral cell that gives rise to an oocyte

Oophorectomy The removal of one or both ovaries by surgery

Oophoritis Inflammation of the ovary

Operon A segment of DNA containing adjacent genes including structural genes, an operator gene, and a regulatory gene.An operon serve as a functional unit of transcription and genetic regulation

Ophthalmia Severe inflammation of the eye

Ophthalmic Pertaining to the eye

Ophthalmitis Inflammation of the eye

Ophthalmopathy Any eye disease

Ophthalmoscope A lighted instrument that is used to examine the inside of the eye, including the retina and the optic nerve

Opiate A medication or an illegal drug that is derived from the opium poppy or that mimics the effect of an opiate

Opioid A synthetic narcotic that resembles the naturally occurring opiates or any substance that binds to or otherwise affects the opiate receptors on the surface of the cell

Opisthotonos A great rigid spasm of the body, with the back fully arched and the heels and head bent back

Opium An addictive narcotic drug that is derived from the unripe seedpods of the opium poppy

Optic Having to do with vision

Optic cup The white, cup-like area in the center of the optic disc

Optic glioma A rare, most commonly benign tumor on the optic nerve or the optic chiasm

Optic nerve Also known as cranial nerve II, is a paired nerve that transmits visual information from the retina to the brain

Optic neuroma A rare benign tumor of the optic nerve

Oral Having to do with the mouth

Oral aversion Reluctance, avoidance,or fear of eating, drinking, or accepting sensation in or around the mouth

Orbit In medicine, the bony cavity in which the eyeball sits

Orbital In anatomy, pertaining to the orbit

Orbital ridge The bony ridge beneath the eyebrow

Orchiopexy Surgery to bring an undescended testicle down into the scrotum

Orchitis Inflammation of the testis

Organ A relatively independent part of the body that carries out one or more special functions

Organotherapy The use of extracts of animal glands or organs to treat disease

Orgasm A series of muscle contractions in the genital region that is accompanied by sudden release of endorphins

Orifice An opening

Ornithine An amino acid that is not found in protein but is important in the formation of urea and the disposal of excess nitrogen

Ornithophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of birds

Oropharynx The part of the throat that is at the back of the mouth

Orthodontics The dental specialty that is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of dental deformities as well as irregularity in the relationship of the lower to the upper jaw

Ortholog A gene in two or more species that has evolved from a common ancestor

Orthopaedics The branch of surgery broadly concerned with the skeletal system

Orthopaedist An orthopaedic surgeon who corrects congenital or functional abnormalities of the bones with surgery, casting,and bracing.Orthopaedists also treat injuries to the bones

Orthopnea The inability to breathe easily except when sitting up straight or standing erect

Orthopod Slang term for an orthopedist

Orthopox The family of viruses to which belongs vaccinia, the virus that causes smallpox

Orthorexia nervosa A disorder in which there
is an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating, an extreme dedication to extreme diets that can starve the body of basic nutrition

Orthoscopic Having correct vision, producing correct vision, free from optical distortion, or designed to correct distorted vision

Orthotic An artificial support or brace for the limbs or spine

Oscillopsia Swinging vision

Oscitation The act of yawning

Osler's nodes These are small , tender, transient nodules in the pads of fingers and toes and the palms and soles

Osmole In biochemistry, the amount of a substance that dissociates in solution to form one mole of osmotically active particles

Osseous Having to do with bone

Ossicle Any small bone

Ossification The process of creating bone, that is of transforming cartilage into bone

Ossify To harden

Osteitis Inflammation of the bone

Osteitis deformans A condition involving cellular remodeling and deformity of one or more bones.Better known today as Paget disease

Osteoarthritis Also known as degenerative arthritis.A type of arthritis caused by inflammation, breakdown, and eventual loss of cartilage in the joints

Osteoarthropathy Any disease of the bones and joints

Osteoblast A cell that makes bone

Osteoblastoma A noncancerous tumor in bone tissue

Osteochondroma An abnormal, solitary, benign growth of bone and cartilage, typically at the end of a long bone

Osteochondromatosis A benign condition characterized by synovial membrane proliferation and metaplasia

Osteochondrosis Any disease that affects the progress of bone growth by killing bone tissue

Osteoclasia Destruction and reabsorption of bone tissue, as occurs when broken bones heal

Osteoclasis The surgical destruction of bone tissue

Osteoclast A large multinucleate bone cell which absorbs bone tissue during growth and healing

Osteoclastoma Also called giant cell tumour of bone, that found predominantly at the end of long bones in the knee region,but also occurring in the wrist, arm, and pelvis

Osteocyte A bone cell

Osteodystrophy A bone disorder that adversely affects bone growth

Osteogenesis The production of bone

Osteoid osteoma A benign tumor of bone tissue

Osteology The branch of anatomy or physical
anthropology that deals with bones

Osteolytic Pertaining to the dissolution of bone, especially the loss of calcium from bone

Osteomalacia Softening of bone by demineralization and most notably by the depletion of calcium from bone

Osteomyelitis Inflammation of the bone due to infection

Osteonecrosis Bone death resulting from poor blood supply to an area of bone.Also called aseptic necrosis or avascular necrosis

Osteopath A Doctor of Osteopathy

Osteopenia Low bone mass and is not as severe as osteoporosis

Osteopetrosis A genetic disorder that is characterized by abnormally dense thick bone

Osteoporosis A condition that weakens bones,
making them fragile and more likely to break.Osteoporosis occur due to depletion of calcium and bone protein

Osteosarcoma A cancer of the bone that is most common in adolescents and young adults

Osteosynthesis The reduction and internal fixation of a bone fracture with implantable devices that are usually made of metal

Osteotomy A surgical operation whereby a bone is cut to shorten or lengthen it or to change its alignment

Ostomy A surgically created opening between an internal organ and the body surface

Otalgia Ear pain

Othello syndrome The delusion of infidelity of a spouse or partner

Otic barotrauma A condition that causes ear discomfort due to pressure changes

Otitis Inflammation of the ear

Otitis externa Infection of the skin covering the outer ear canal that leads in to the ear drum, usually due to bacteria such as streptococcus, staphylococcus, or pseudomonas

Otitis interna Inflammation or infarction of the inner ear

Otitis media A group of inflammatory diseases of the middle ear

Otolaryngology A surgical specialty within medicine that deals with conditions of the ear, nose, and throat and related structures of the head and neck

Otology The study and medical care of the ear

Otoplasty Plastic surgery to reshape the outer ear

Otosclerosis An abnormal growth of bone near the middle ear ,resulting in loss of hearing

Otoscope An instrument for looking in the ear

Ototoxicity Toxicity to the ear.

Outlet The exit or opening

Outpatient A patient who attends a hospital for treatment without staying there overnight

Ova Plural of ovum

Ovarian Of or pertaining to the ovary

Ovarian cyst A fluid-filled sac in the ovary

Ovariectomy The removal of one or both ovaries

Ovary The female gonad, one of a pair of reproductive glands in women

Overgrowth Excessive growth

Overweight A state between normal weight and obesity

Ovulation The release of the ripe egg (ovum) from the ovary

Ovulatory Relating to ovulation

Ovum An egg within the ovary of the female

Oxter The armpit

Oxycodone A strong narcotic pain reliever and cough suppressant similar to morphine, codeine, and hydrocodone

Oxygenate The process of treating a patient with oxygen, or of combining a medication or other substance with oxygen

Oxyhemoglobin The oxygen-carrying pigment of red blood cells that gives them their red color and serves to convey oxygen to the tissues

Oxymetholone An androgen and anabolic steroid medication which is used primarily in the treatment of anemia

Oxytocin A hormone made in the brain that plays a role in childbirth and lactation by causing muscles to contract in the uterus and the mammary glands in the breast

Oxyuris A group of intestinal worms that includes pinworm

Ozone An inorganic molecule with the chemical formula O3. It is a pale blue gas with a distinctively pungent smell

Terminology 'N'

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Nanism Once known as dwarfism, this condition is now correctly called short stature

Napiform Turnip-shaped.Large and round at the top and tapering down sharply and becoming exceedingly slender toward the bottom tip

Narcolepsy A neurological disorder that is marked by the recurrent,sudden,uncontrollable compulsion to sleep

Narcotic A drug that causes insensibility or stupor

Nasal Having to do with the nose

Nasal mucus A slippery fluid produced by the membranes lining the nose

Nasal polyp A growth or protrusion of tissue in the nose or sinuses

Nasal prosthesis An artificial device worn to replace part or all of a missing nose

Nasal septum The dividing wall that runs down the middle of the nose,separating the two nasal cavities, each of which ends in a nostril

Nasogastric Referring to the passage from the nose to the stomach

Nasopharynx The area of the upper throat that lies behind the nose

Natriuresis The excretion of an excessively large amount of sodium in the urine

Natriuretic Causing natriuresis

Natural immunity Immunity that is naturally existing and does not require prior sensitization to an antigen

Natural killer cell A cell that can react against and destroy another cell without prior sensitization to it

Naturopath A physician who practices naturopathic medicine

Nausea Stomach queasiness, the urge to vomit

Navel The umbilicus, the former site of attachment of the umbilical cord, usually found in about the middle of the abdominal wall

Neanderthal An extinct subspecies of Homo sapiens

Nearsightedness The ability to see near objects more clearly than distant objects

Nebulizer A device for administering a medication by spraying a fine mist.Also known as atomizer

Necrobiosis Gradual degeneration and death of cells in the body tissues

Necropsy A postmortem examination

Necrosis The death of living cells or tissues

Nef gene Short for negative factor gene, a gene the absence (or defect) of which diminishes the strength of a disease

Neisseria A group of bacteria that causes gonorrhea

Nematodes Roundworms

Neocortex The newer portion of the cerebral cortex that serves as the center of higher mental functions for humans

Neonatal Pertaining to the newborn period, specifically the first 4 weeks after birth

Neonate A newborn baby, specifically a baby in the first 4 weeks after birth

Neophobia An irrational fear of new situations, places, or things

Neoplasia Abnormal new growth of cells

Neoplasm A tumor

Neoplastic The process of tumor formation

Nephrectomy Surgery to remove all or part of the kidney (because of cancer)

Nephritis Inflammation of the kidney, which causes impaired kidney function

Nephrocalcinosis Too much deposition of calcium in kidney

Nephrolith A kidney stone

Nephrolithiasis The process of forming a kidney stone

Nephron The microscopic funnel-like structural and functional unit of the kidney that filters wastes as they enter and progress through the kidney

Nephrosclerosis A progressive disease of the kidneys that results from sclerosis (hardening) of the small blood vessels in the kidneys

Nephrosis Any degenerative disease of the kidney tubules, the tiny canals that make up much of the substance of the kidney

Nephrotoxic Poisonous to the kidney

Nerve A bundle of fibers that uses electrical and chemical signals to transmit sensory and motor information from one body part to another

Nerve compression Pinching of a nerve that is due to too much pressure on it

Nervine A nerve tonic, a medicine that acts therapeutically upon the nerves,particularly in the sense of a sedative that serves to calm ruffled nerves

Nervous colon syndrome A common gastrointestinal disorder involving an
abnormal condition of gut contractions (motility) characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, mucous in stools, and irregular bowel habits with alternating diarrhea and constipation

Nervus ulnaris An Articular branch that passes to the elbow joint while the ulnar nerve is passing between the olecranon and medial epicondyle of the humerus

Neti pot A ceramic pot used for nasal saline irrigation of the nasal passages.Saline irrigation involves flushing the nasal passages with a salt and water solution to thin the mucus and facilitate drainage of the sinuses

Neural Having to do with nerve cells

Neuralgia Pain along the course of a nerve

Neuraminidase inhibitor A drug that inhibits the enzyme called neuraminidase

Neurectomy The surgical removal of part or all of a nerve

Neuritis Inflammation of nerves

Neurobiological disorder An illness of the nervous system caused by genetic,metabolic, or other biological factors

Neuroblastoma A childhood form of cancer that arises in the adrenal gland or in tissue in the nervous system that is related to the adrenal gland

Neurocysticercosis Infection of the brain by the larval form of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium

Neurodermatitis Also known as lichen simplex. Scaly patches of skin on the head,lower legs, wrists, or forearms that are caused by a chronic itching and scratching

Neuroendocrine Having to do with neuroendocrinology

Neuroendocrinology A branch of medicine concerned with the interactions between the nervous system and the endocrine system

Neuroepithelial Having to do with tissue made up of sensory cells that serve in the reception of external stimuli

Neurofibromatosis A genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on nerve tissue

Neurogenesis The process by which new nerve cells are generated

Neurogenic Arising from the nerves or the nervous system

Neuroleptic A term that refers to the effects of antipsychotic drugs on a patient, especially on his or her cognition and behavior

Neurological Having to do with the nerves or the nervous system

Neurology The medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system, which includes the brain, the spinal cord, and the nerves

Neuroma A benign tumor that arises from a nerve

Neuromuscular Pertaining to both nerves and muscles

Neuron A nerve cell that receives and sends electrical signals over long distances within the body

Neuropathy Any disease or malfunction of the nerves

Neuroplasticity The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life

Neuroradiology The field within radiology that specializes in the use of radioactive substances, x-rays and scanning devices for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the
nervous system

Neuroscience The scientific study of the nervous system

Neurosis A class of functional mental disorders involving chronic distress but neither delusions nor hallucinations

Neurosteroi A brain steroid that play a role in
controlling anxiety and depression

Neurosurgeon A physician who specializes in surgery on the brain and other parts of the nervous system

Neurosyphilis An infection of the brain or spinal cord caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum. It usually occurs in people who have had chronic,untreated syphilis, usually about 10 to 20 years after first infection

Neurotheology The search for the place(s) in the brain where religious beliefs originate

Neurotoxic Poisonous to nerves or nerve tissue

Neurotoxin Any substance that is capable of causing damage to nerves or nerve tissue Neurotransmitter A chemical that is released from a nerve cell which thereby transmits an impulse from a nerve cell to another nerve, muscle,organ, or other tissue

Neutral posture The posture when the joints are not bent and the spine is aligned and not twisted

Neutropenia Not enough neutrophils

Neutrophil A type of white blood cell,a granulocyte that is filled with microscopic granules, little sacs containing enzymes that digest microorganisms

Neutrophilia More than the normal number of neutrophils

Nevi The plural of nevus

Nevus A pigmented spot on the skin,such as a mole

Nexus A connection or link

Niacin Nicotinic acid, one of the B-complex vitamins-B 3

Nicotine An alkaloid (a nitrogen-containing chemical) made by the tobacco plant or produced synthetically

Nictitate To wink

Nictitating spasm Spasm of the eyelid with continuous winking

Nidus In medicine, any structure that resembles a nest in appearance or function

Night blindness A condition making it difficult or impossible to see in relatively low light

Night sweats Severe hot flashes that occur at night and result in a drenching sweat

Nil disease A form of kidney disease preferably called minimal change disease

Nine-day measles An acute highly contagious viral disease with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a spreading skin rash. the measles, also known as rubeola

Nipple The pigmented projection on the surface of the chest in the male and the breast in the female

Nitrogen narcosis A condition similar to intoxication with alcohol characterized by euphoria , loss of balance and manual dexterity, disorientation, and impaired reasoning

Nitrosoureas A group of cancer drugs called alkylating agents because they act by the process of alkylation to inhibit DNA repair. The nitrosoureas can cross the blood-brain barrier and are used to treat brain tumors

Nocardia infection A kind of bacterial infection caused by a bacterium Nocardia which tend to strike the lungs, brain and skin, particularly in people with an impaired immune system

Nocturia Excessive urinating at night

Nocturnal amblyopia Night blindness

Nocturnal enuresis Urinating at night or Bed wetting at night

Node A collection of tissue

Nodular shaped like or occurring in nodules

Nodular melanoma An invasive form of melanoma, potentially serious skin cancer that arises from pigment cells (melanocytes)

Nodule A small swelling or aggregation of cells in the body, especially an abnormal one

Noisome Offensive to the senses and especially disgusting, offensive, or harmful to the sense of smell

Nolvadex (tamoxifen) An antiestrogen (a drug that blocks the effects of estrogen) which competes with estrogen for binding sites in target tissues

Nomenclature A system of names used in a particular discipline, as in medicine and surgery, anatomy and biochemistry

Nonagenarian Someone in his or her ninties, that is, between 90 and 99 years of age

Noncoding DNA The strand of DNA that does not carry the information necessary to make proteins

Noncompliance Failure or refusal to comply

Nondipper A person in whom there is an absence of the normal nocturnal fall (dip) in blood pressure

Nondisjunction Failure of paired chromosomes to separate during cell division, so that both chromosomes go to one daughter cell and none go to the other

Nonoxynol Nonoxynol-9, sometimes abbreviated as N-9, is an organic compound that is used as a surfactant

Nonpathogenic Incapable of causing disease

Nonpenetrant trait A genetic trait that is present in the genome but does not manifest itself in the individual

Nonrandom Not by chance alone

Nonseminoma A type of testicular cancer that arises in specialized sex cells called germ cells that give rise to sperm

Nonsense codon A codon for which no normal tRNA molecule exists.The presence of a nonsense codon causes termination of translation

Nonsyndromic Not part of a syndrome

Normal growth rate The speed with which normal growth occurs in length before birth and in height after birth

Normotensive Having normal blood pressure

Normoxia Normal levels of oxygen

Norovirus Sometimes referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common cause of gastroenteritis

Northern blot A technique in molecular biology , used mainly to separate and identify pieces of RNA

Norwalk virus A family of small round viruses that are an important cause of viral gastroenteritis

Nose job A surgical procedure that reshapes
or resizes the nose, known medically as a rhinoplasty

Nosebleed Bleeding from the blood vessels of the nose

Nosocomial An infection that is acquired in a
hospital or other health care facility

Nosology The branch of medical science dealing with the classification of diseases

Nostril The external opening of the nose

Nostrum A medicine prepared by an unqualified person,especially one that is not considered effective

Novercal Pertaining to a stepmother

Nuchal Referring to the back of the neck

Nuclei The plural of nucleus

Nucleic acid One of the family of large molecules which includes deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA)

Nucleocapsid The capsid of a virus with the enclosed nucleic acid

Nucleosome A structure that is responsible in part for the compactness of a chromosome

Nucleotide The building blocks of nucleic acids; they are composed of three subunit molecules: a nitrogenous base, a five-carbon sugar (ribose or deoxyribose), and at least one phosphate group

Nucleus In cell biology, the structure that houses the chromosomes, while in neuroanatomy, a group of nerve cells

Null mutation A mutation (a change) in a gene that leads to its not being transcribed into RNA and/or translated into a functional protein product

Nullipara A woman who has not given birth to a viable child

Numb Loss of sensation of feeling in an area of the body

Nutraceutical A food or part of a food that allegedly provides medicinal or health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of disease

Nutrigenomics The study of how different foods may interact with specific genes to increase the risk of common chronic diseases

Nutrition The process of taking in food and using it for growth,metabolism, and repair

Nyctalopia Night blindness, impaired vision in dim light and in the dark, due to impaired function of certain specialized vision cells (the rods) in the retina

Nyctophobia Pathological fear of the dark

Nymph The immature form of some invertebrates, particularly insects, which undergoes gradual metamorphosis (hemimetabolism) before reaching its adult stage

Terminology "M"

2018-01-10T20:02:00.001-08:00

Macerate To soften tissues after death by soaking and by enzymatic digestion

Macroangiopathy A disease of the large blood vessels in which fat and blood clots build up and stick to the vessel walls, blocking the flow of blood

Macrobiota Any living organisms in a given
area large enough to be seen with the naked eye

Macrobiotic Referring to the macrobiota

Macrocephaly An abnormally large head

Macrocytic An abnormally large red blood cell

Macrogenitosomia A condition in which the external sex organs are prematurely or abnormally enlarged

Macroglobulinemia A condition in which the blood contains high levels of large proteins and may become too thick or viscous to flow through small blood vessels

Macroglossia An abnormally large tongue

Macrognathia An abnormally large jaw

Macrolide A class of antibiotics that includes Biaxin (Clarithromycin), Zithromax (Azithromycin), Dificid (Fidoximycin), and Erythromycin.These macrolides inhibit the growth of bacteria and often prescribe to treat common bacterial infections

Macroorchidism Abnormally large testes

Macrophage A type of white blood cell that ingests foreign material

Macrophagic myofasciitis A rare muscle disease characterized by microscopic lesions found in muscle biopsies that show infiltration of muscle tissue by PAS-positive macrophages

Macroscopic Large enough to be seen with the naked eye

Macrosomia A newborn with an excessive birth weight

Macrovascular The portion of the vasculature of the body comprising the larger vessels, those with an internal diameter of more than 100 microns

Macula An oval-shaped pigmented area near the center of the retina of the human eye and some other animalian eyes

Macule A circumscribed change in the color of skin that is neither raised nor depressed

Maculopathy Damage to the macula

Madelung disease A disorder characterized by painless symmetrical diffuse deposits of fat beneath the skin of the neck, upper trunk, arms and legs

Maggot A soft-bodied wormlike larva of a fly that lays its eggs in living or especially in decaying tissues

Magic bullet The perfect drug to cure a disease with no danger of side effects

Magnet therapy Magnetic therapy,also called magnetic field therapy and bioenergy therapy, is an alternative therapy that uses magnets of varying sizes and strengths that are placed on the body to relieve pain and treat disease

Maintenance therapy Treatment designed to help the original primary treatment to succeed

Major anomaly An unusual anatomic feature that is of serious medical or cosmetic consequence to the patient

Major anxiety disorder Excessive, irrational fear and dread

Major depression A mental disorder characterized by at least two weeks of low mood that is present across most situations. It is often accompanied by low self-esteem, loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities, low energy, and pain without any clear cause

Major gene A gene that is necessary and sufficient by itself to cause a condition

Major histocompatibility complex A cluster of genes located on chromosome 6 concerned with antigen production and critical to the success of transplantation

Malabsorption Poor intestinal absorption of nutrients

Malacia An abnormal softening of the tissues

Malady A disease or disorder

Malaise A feeling of general discomfort, uneasiness or pain, often the first indication of an infection or other disease

Malar Referring to the cheek

Malaria A life-threatening disease transmitted
through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito.Infected mosquitoes carry the Plasmodium parasite

Malformation A structural defect in the body due to abnormal embryonic or fetal development

Malignancy Presence of a malignant tumour (cancer)

Malignant Tending to be severe and become progressively worse

Malignant ascites A pathological condition caused by intra- or extra-abdominal disseminated cancer

Malleolus The bony prominence on each side of the human ankle

Malleus A tiny bone in the middle ear that is shaped like a minute mallet

Malnutrition Any condition in which the body does not receive enough nutrients for proper function

Mammary gland One of the two half-moon-shaped glands on either side of the adult female chest, which with fatty tissue and the nipple make up the breast

Mammogram An X-ray of the breast that is taken with a device that compresses and flattens the breast

Mandible The bone of the lower jaw

Mania A specific type of mental abnormality characterized by periods of great excitement or euphoria, delusions, and overactivity

Manic In a state of mania

Manometry The measurement of pressure using a device called amanometer

Manorexia A term that has been used to refer to anorexia nervosa in males

Mapping In genetics, the term refer to charting the location of genes on chromosomes

Marasmus A form of severe malnutrition
characterized by protein deficiency that occur usually in children

Marburg virus The virus that causes Marburg hemorrhagic fever, a disease which affects both humans and non-human primates

Marfan syndrome An inherited disorder of connective tissue that is characterized by abnormalities of the eyes, skeleton, and cardiovascular system

Marijuana A common street and recreational drug that comes from the marijuana plant

Marker A piece of DNA that lies on a chromosome so close to a gene that the marker and the gene are inherited together

Marker chromosome An abnormal chromosome that is distinctive in appearance but not fully identified

Marker gene A gene or DNA sequence with a known location on a chromosome that can be used to identify individuals or species

Marmoreal Resembling marble

Marrow The bone marrow

MASA syndrome Mental retardation, Aphasia, Shuffling gait, and Adducted thumbs, also known as L1 syndrome

Masochism The derivation of pleasure from one's own pain

Mass spectrometry A process used to identify chemicals in a substance by their mass and charge

MASS syndrome A heritable disorder of connective tissue characterized by involvement of the mitral valve, aorta,skeleton, and skin.The syndrome occur due to mutation in FBN1, the fibrillin 1 gene

Massage The therapeutic practice of manipulating the muscles and limbs to ease tension and reduce pain

Masseter The muscle that raises the lower jaw

Mast cell A granulocyte found in connective tissue whose normal function is unknown but that is frequently injured during allergic reactions

Mastalgia Pain in the breast or mammary gland due to including injury, infection, and plugged milk ducts

Mastectomy A general term for removal of the breast, usually to remove cancerous tissue

Masticate To grind, crush, and chew

Mastitis Inflammation of one or more mammary glands within the breast, usually in a lactating woman

Mastocyte A mast cell

Mastocytoma A benign nodular skin tumor infiltrated by mast cells

Mastocytosis A condition characterized by infiltration of mast cells into the tissues of the body

Mastoid The rounded protrusion of bone just behind the ear

Mastoiditis An infection that extends to the air cells of the skull behind the ear

Materfamilias The female head of the family

Maternal Pertaining to the mother

Materteral Relating to a maternal aunt

Mathematics disorder A condition in which a child's math ability is far below normal for their age, intelligence, and education

Matricectomy The process of surgically or chemically destroying all or part of the nail matrix

Maxilla The major bone of the upper jaw

Measles An acute and highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a spreading skin rash

Meatus An opening or a passageway

Meconium The earliest stool of a mammalian infant.It is a dark, sticky material that is normally present in the intestine at birth and passed in the feces after birth

Meconium ileus The obstruction of the intestine (ileus) due to overly thick meconium, resulting from a deficiency of trypsin and other digestive enzymes

Medial Toward the middle of the body

Median The middle

Mediastinotomy Surgical opening of the mediastinum usually for the purpose of obtaining a biopsy

Mediastinum The area between the lungs

Medicalize To identify a condition as a disorder requiring medical treatment

Medication The administration of a drug or
medicine

Meditation A practice for relaxing the body and calming the mind

Medulla The innermost part of the brain

Medulla oblongata A portion of the hindbrain that controls autonomic functions such as breathing, digestion,heart and blood vessel function, swallowing, and sneezing

Medulloblastoma The most common type of primary brain tumor in childhood that arise in the cerebellum, and spread along the spine

Megabase Unit of length for DNA fragments that is equal to 1 million nucleotides

Megacolon An abnormally enlarged colon

Megakaryocyte A giant cell in the bone marrow that is the ancestor of blood platelets,essential to normal blood clotting

Megalencephaly A condition in which there is an abnormally large, heavy,and usually malfunctioning brain. Also known as macrencephaly

Megrim Periodic attacks of headaches on one or both sides of the head.Also called migraine

Meibomian cyst An inflammation of the oil gland of the eyelid.Also called chalazion or tarsal cyst

Meibomian gland A gland in the eyelids that makes a lubricant called sebum

Meibomianitis Inflammation of the little glands in the tarsus of the eyelids

Meiosis A process where a single cell divides twice to produce four cells containing half the original amount of genetic information

Meiotic nondisjunction Failure of two members of a chromosome pair to separate from one another during meiosis, causing both chromosomes to go to a single daughter cell

Melancholia An old term for depression

Melanin The pigment that gives human skin, hair, and eyes their color

Melanocyte A skin cell that produces and contains the pigment melanin

Melanoderma Increased skin pigmentation, darkening of the skin

Melanoma A type of cancer that develops from the pigment-containing cells known as melanocytes

Melasma Pigmentation of the cheeks

Melatonin A hormone that is produced by the pineal gland in animals and regulates sleep and wakefulness

Melena Stool or vomit that is stained black by blood pigment

Melioidosis An infectious disease caused by a Gram-negative bacterium, Burkholderia pseudomallei, found in soil and water

Melorheostosis A rare an progressive disease characterized by thickening or widening of the outer layers of the bone

Membrane A very thin layer of tissue that covers a surface

Memory The process of recovering information about past events or knowledge

Menarche The time in a girl's life when menstruation first begins

Meningioma A tumor that forms on membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord just inside the skull

Meningitis Inflammation of the meninges, the three membranes that envelop the brain and the spinal cord

Meningococcus A Gram-negative bacterium that can cause meningitis and other forms of meningococcal disease

Meningoencephalitis An inflammation of the meninges and the brain

Meningomyelocele A type of birth defect in which the spinal canal and the backbone don't close before the baby is born

Meniscus Crescent-shaped structure

Menometrorrhagia Excessive uterine bleeding, both at the usual time of menstrual periods and at other irregular intervals

Menopause The time in a woman's life when menstrual periods permanently stop, called the "change of life"

Menstrual Pertaining to menstruation

Menstrual cramps Pain in the lower abdomen, usually in the first or second day of the menstrual cycle, that is caused by uterine contractions

Mentum Medical term for the chin

Metabolism The series of biochemical processes that occur within a living organism

Metacarpals Five cylindrical bones extending from the wrist to the fingers

Metagene A pattern of gene expression

Metastasis The cancer resulting from the spread of the primary tumor

Methemoglobin A form of the oxygen-carrying metalloprotein hemoglobin, in which the iron in the heme group is in the ferric state, not the ferrous of normal hemoglobin.It cannot bind oxygen, unlike oxyhemoglobin

Methicillin A semisynthetic penicillin-related antibiotic, also known as Staphcillin

Methionine An amino acid which provides methyl groups and sulfur for normal metabolism

Methylation The addition of a methyl group to aminoacid lysine and arginine (on protein level), and the addition of a methyl group to DNA molecule (on DNA level)

Metrorrhagia Uterine bleeding at irregular intervals, particularly between the expected menstrual periods

Miasma An unpleasant or unhealthy smell or vapour made up of particles from decomposing material that could cause disease and could be identified by its foul smell

Microabscess A small accumulation of pus

Microalbuminuria A moderate increase in
the level of urine albumin. It occurs when the kidney leaks small amounts of albumin into the urine

Microarray A tool used to sift through and analyze the information contained within a genome

Microbe A microscopic organism, which may
exist in its single-celled form, or in a colony of cells

Microbicide An agent that kills microbes

Microcephaly An abnormally small head due to failure of brain growth

Microchimerism The presence of a small number of cells that originate from another individual and are genetically distinct from the cells of the host individual

Microcytic An abnormally small red blood cell

Microhematuria Unseen blood in urine

Microorchidism Abnormally small testes

Micropenis An abnormally small penis

Microphthalmia An abnormally small eye

Microsomia Abnormal smallness of body structures

Microsporidiosis A disease caused by small parasites known as Microsporidia

Microtia An abnormally small ear

Microvascular The portion of the vasculature of the body consisting of the smaller vessels, those with an internal diameter of at most 100 microns

Micturate To urinate

Middle ear Air-filled central cavity of the ear, behind the eardrum

Miscarriage The loss of a pregnancy in the first 20 weeks

Misophonia A rare disorder in which certain sounds provoke extreme reactions of dislike or hatred in the affected individual

Miticide Usually a chemical agent that kills mites

Mitochondria A double membrane-bound organelle found in the cytoplasm of all eukaryotic cells.Mitochondria is responsible for production of energy in the form of ATP

Molar One of the posterior teeth well adapted to grinding

Mold One of a large group of fungi that can proliferate on food or in moist areas

Mongolism Obsolete name for Down syndrome

Monilia A yeast-like fungus now called Candida

Monoarthritis Inflammation of a joint that occurs in one joint at a time

Monoarticular Involving just one joint

Monochromat A person with one of the many forms of colorblindness

Monoclonal Derived from a single cell and cells identical to that cell

Monocular With one eye, as in monocular vision.or with one eyepiece, as in a monocular microscope

Monocyte A white blood cell that has a single nucleus and can ingest foreign material

Monogenic Pertaining to one gene

Mononeuritis Inflammation of a single nerve

Mononeuropathy A disorder of a single nerve or nerve trunk

Mononucleotide A single base pair

Monosomy Missing one chromosome from a pair

Morbidity Illness, disease

Mordant A chemical that fixes a dye in or on a substance by combining with the dye to form an insoluble compound

Morgue A place where dead bodies are kept before autopsy, funeral, or burial

Morphea A rare skin condition that causes
painless, discolored patches on skin

Morphine A powerful narcotic agent that has strong analgesic action and other significant effects on the central nervous system

Morphology A branch of biology dealing with the study of the form and structure of organisms and their specific structural features

Mortality Susceptible to death

Motor neuron A neuron that sends electrical output signals to muscle neurons

Mourning The expression of sorrow for someone's death

Moyamoya A progressive cerebrovascular disorder caused by blocked arteries at the base of the brain in an area called the basal ganglia

Mucolipidosis One of a group of storage diseases in which both lipids and substances called mucopolysaccharides accumulate in the tissues of the body

Mucopolysaccharidosis A group of metabolic disorders caused by the absence or malfunctioning of lysosomal enzymes needed to break down molecules called glycosaminoglycans

Mucormycosis A serious but rare fungal infection (most commonly of the sinuses, brain, or lungs) caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes.Also known as zygomycosis

Mucosa Having to do with a mucous membrane

Mucositis Inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract
from the mouth to the anus

Mucous Pertaining to mucus, a thick fluid produced by the lining of some tissues of the body

Mucoviscidosis Another name for cystic fibrosis,a genetic disorder that affects mostly the lungs, but also the pancreas, liver,kidneys, and intestine

Mucus A thick fluid that is produced by the lining of some organs of the body

Mucus colitis Irritable bowel syndrome ,characterized by abnormal sensitivity and functioning of the colonic wall that becomes irritable (and not irritated)

Multicellular Consisting of more than one cell

Multicentric Having more than one center. A term often applied to tumors

Multifactorial In medicine, referring to multiple factors in heredity or disease

Multifocal Having to do with two or more foci or arising from two or more places

Multipara A woman who has had two or more pregnancies resulting in potentially viable offspring

Mumps An acute (sudden, shortlived) viral illness that usually presents with inflammation of the salivary glands,particularly the parotid glands

Murmur A sound due to vibrations from the flow of blood through the heart or great vessels. A murmur is usually heard with a stethoscope

Muscle The tissue of the body which primarily functions as a source of power

Muscular Having to do with the muscles

Muscular dystrophy One of a group of genetic diseases characterized by progressive weakness and degeneration of the skeletal or voluntary muscles which control movement

Music therapy The therapeutic use of music

Musicomania A singular passion for music that is excessive and beyond all reason

Mutagen Something that is capable of mutating DNA

Mutagenesis The development and production of mutations in the genome

Mutant An individual with a mutant (changed) gene

Mutation A permanent change, a structural alteration in the DNA or RNA

Myalgia Pain in the muscles or within muscle tissue

Mycelium The vegetative part of a fungus or fungus-like bacterial colony, consisting of a mass of branching, thread-like hyphae

Mycobacterium A large family of bacteria that have unusually waxy cell walls that are resistant to digestion

Mycoplasma A genus of bacteria that lack a cell wall around their cell membrane

Mycotoxin A toxin produced by a fungus

Mydriasis Dilation of the pupil

Myelin The fatty substance that covers and protects nerves

Myelitis Inflammation of the spinal cord

Myeloencephalitis Inflammation of both the spinal cord and the brain

Myelofibrosis Spontaneous scarring (fibrosis) of the bone marrow that disrupts the normal production of blood cells, leading to severe anemia and enlargement of the spleen and liver

Myelogenous Referring to the nonlymphocytic groups of white blood cells, including the granulocytes, monocytes and platelets

Myeloid Referring to myelocytes,a type of white blood cell

Myeloma A cancer arising from plasma cells, a
type of white blood cell which is made in the bone marrow

Myeloperoxidase An enzyme in leukocytes that linked to inflammation and cardiovascular disease

Myocardium The heart muscle

Myoclonus A condition of abnormal contraction of muscles

Myocyte A muscle cell

Myoglobin The pigment in muscle that carries oxygen

Myokymia Spontaneous,fine fascicular contractions of muscle without muscular atrophy or weakness

Myoma A tumor of muscle

Myomectomy Surgery to remove a fibroid from the uterus

Myometrium The muscular outer layer of the uterus

Myopia The ability to see close objects more clearly than distant objects

Myositis Inflammation of muscle tissue

Myriad A great number

Myxoma A benign tumor derived from connective tissue that has a gelatinous appearance

Terminology "L"

2018-01-01T07:35:00.001-08:00

Lab test A test conducted under controlled scientific conditions in a laboratory where the appropriate equipment, supplies, and certified expertise are available

Labia The inner and outer folds of the vulva, at either side of the vagina

Labia majora The larger (major) outside pair of labia (lips) of the vulva

Labia minora The smaller (minor) inside pair of labia (lips) of the vulva

Labial Pertaining to a lip

Lability Susceptible to change, error or instability

Labor The process of delivering a baby and the placenta,membranes, and umbilical cord from the uterus to the vagina to the outside world

Labra The plural of labrum , a ring of fibrocartilage around the edge of the articular surface of a bone

Labrocyte A mast cell

Labrose Having thick or large lips

Labyrinth The delicate maze membranous canals in the inner ear

Labyrinthitis Inflammation of the labyrinth of the ear

Laceration A cut

Lacrimal gland Paired, almond-shaped exocrine glands, one for each eye that produces tears and is located just above the upper,outer corner of the eye

Lacrimation Shedding tears

Lactase Enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose

Lactate dehydrogenase An enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of lactate to pyruvate,an important step in energy production in cells

Lactation The process of milk production

Lactic acidosis Lactic acid production by the cells, faster than glucose that can be metabolized

Lactobacillus A bacterium normally found in the mouth, intestinal tract,and vagina. Lactobacillus can also live in fermenting products, such as yogurt

Lactose The sugar found in milk

Lacuna The space occupied by cells of calcified tissues

Lamella A thin leaf, plate, disk,such as in bone tissue

Lamina Plates or layers

Laminaria A thin piece of sterile seaweed that can be used to gradually dilate the cervix

Laminectomy A surgical procedure in which the posterior arch of a vertebra is removed

Laminopathy A disease due to mutation of the lamin A/C gene

Lancet A small, pointed knife that is used to prick a finger for a blood test

Lanugo The first hair to be produced by the fetal hair follicles, and it usually appears on the fetus at about 5 months of gestation

Laparoscope An instrument through which structures within the abdomen and pelvis can be seen

Laparotomy An operation to open the abdomen

Large intestine The last part of the gastrointestinal tract and of the digestive system in vertebrates,also known as the large bowel or colon

Laryngeal Having to do with the larynx

Laryngeal nerve palsy Paralysis of the larynx (voice box) caused by damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve or its parent nerve, the vagus nerve, which originates in the brainstem and runs down to the colon

Laryngeal papilloma A rare medical condition that leads to audible changes in voice quality and narrowing of the airway

Laryngectomee A person who has had his or her larynx (voice box ) removed

Laryngectomy Surgery to remove part or all of the larynx

Laryngitis An inflammation of the larynx most often caused by viral infections

Laryngomalacia An abnormally soft,floppy larynx

Laryngostasis An infection ( commonly known
as croup) of the larynx, trachea, and the bronchial tubes, that occurs mainly in children. It is usually caused by viruses, less often by bacteria

Lassa fever An acute viral infection found in the tropics, especially in West Africa

Lassitude A state of physical or mental weariness

Latent Hidden, dormant, inactive

Lateral Refers to the outer side of the body part, but it is also used to refer to the side of a body part

Lateral ventricle The two largest cavities of the
ventricular system of the human brain and contain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Each cerebral hemisphere contains a lateral ventricle, known as the left or right ventricle, respectively

Lattice dystrophy A form of hereditary corneal dystrophy in which there is an accumulation of amyloid deposits, or abnormal protein fibers,throughout the middle and anterior
stroma of the cornea

Launois-Bensaude syndrome A disorder characterized by painless symmetrical diffuse deposits of fat beneath the skin of the neck, upper trunk, arms and legs

Laxative Something that promotes emptying of the bowels

Lazy eye An eye that diverges in gaze.

LDL cholesterol Low-density lipoprotein are one of the five major groups of lipoprotein which transport all fat molecules around the body in the extracellular water

Lead poisoning An acute or chronic poisoning caused by the absorption of lead or any of its salts into the body

Lectin A complex molecule that contains both protein and sugar

Leech therapy The use of leeches in medical treatment

Legal blindness The criteria used to determine eligibility for government disability benefits and which do not necessarily indicate a person's ability to function

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease A hip disorder in children due to interruption of the blood supply to the head of the femur, causing it to deteriorate

Legionnaire disease A disease due to the bacteria Legionella pneumophila found in plumbing, shower heads and water-storage tanks

Leigh's disease A rare, inherited disorder characterized by degeneration of the central nervous system

Leiomyosarcoma A malignant tumor that originates in smooth muscle, the major structural component of most hollow internal organs and the walls of blood vessels

Leishmaniasis A parasitic disease that is spread by the bite of sand flies infected with the protozoa Leishmania

Lemierre syndrome A potentially lethal form of sore throat caused by the bacterium Fusobacterium necrophorum, a common inhabitant of the mouth

Lentigo A type of freckle that is a small tan, brown, or black spot which tends to be darker than the usual

Leprosy An infectious disease of the skin, nervous system, and mucous membranes that is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae

Leptospirosis An infectious disease caused by a particular type of bacteria called a spirochete transmitted by rats as well as by skunks, opossums,raccoons, foxes, and other vermin

Lesbian A female homosexual

Lesbianism Female homosexuality

Lesion An area of abnormal tissue change

Let down reflex An involuntary reflex during the period of time when a women is breastfeeding which causes the milk to flow freely

Lethargy Abnormal drowsiness

Leukemia Cancer of the white blood cells

Leukemoid reaction A benign condition in which the high number of white blood cells found on a blood test resembles the numbers seen in leukemia

Leukocoria An abnormal white reflection (white pupillary reflex) from the retina of the eye

Leukocyte count A white blood cell count

Leukocytosis A condition in which the number of white blood cells is higher than normal

Leukodystrophy A disorder of the white matter of the brain

Leukopenia Shortage of white blood cells

Leukoplakia A white patch on the mucous membranes in the mouth that may become cancerous

Leukoreduction A process used to filter and remove white blood cells from whole blood before transfusion

Lichenification Thick, leathery skin,usually the result of constant scratching and rubbing

Liddle syndrome A rare, inherited form of high blood pressure

Ligament The fibrous connective tissue that connects bones to other bones

Ligand A molecule that binds to another

Ligature Material used to tie something in surgery

Limb An arm or a leg

Liminal A transitional or initial stage of a process., occupying a position at,or on both sides of, a boundary or threshold

Lingual Having to do with the tongue

Lingual gyrus An area in the occipital lobe, the visual processing center in the brain

Linkage The tendency for genes to be inherited together as a package because of their location near one another on the same chromosome

Lipid Another word for fat

Lipodystrophy A disorder of adipose tissue characterized by a selective loss of body fat

Lipoid nephrosis The earliest stage of nephrosis

Lipoma A benign tumor of adipocytes (fat cells)

Lipoprotein A molecule that is a combination of lipid and protein

Liposarcoma A malignant tumor that arises in fat cells in deep soft tissue,such as that inside the thigh

Liposuction The surgical suctioning of fat deposits from specific parts of the body

Lissencephaly A brain malformation characterized by microcephaly and the lack of normal convolutions (folds) in the brain

Listeria A group of bacteria capable of causing potentially fatal infections in the elderly,newborns, pregnant women, and persons with a weakened immune system

Listeriosis A disease that is caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes

Lithotomy Surgical removal of a stone

Lithotriptor A machine that is used to shatter kidney stones and gallstones by physical or other means, such as with shock waves

Livedo reticularis A mottled purplish discoloration of the skin ,when a person is exposed to the cold. It can also be an indicator of impaired circulation

Liver shunt A portosystemic shunt (PSS) is a bypass of the liver by the body's circulatory system

Lobar Having to do with a lobe

Lobe A subdivision of a body organ or part bounded by fissures, connective tissue, or other structural boundaries

Lobectomy An operation to remove an entire lobe of the lung

Lobotomy Also called prefrontal leukotomy,a neurosurgical operation that involves severing connections in the brain's prefrontal lobe.The operation is performed for the treatment of schizophrenia, manic depression and bipolar disorder, among other mental illnesses

Lobstein's disease An inherited,generalized connective tissue disorder featuring bone fragility and blue sclerae

Lobule A little lobe

Local therapy Treatment that affects cells in the tumor and the area close to it

Lochia The fluid that is discharged from the vagina for a week or so after childbirth

Locomotion The ability to locomote, to get from one place to the next

Locoregional Limited to a local region

Locus In genetics, the place a gene occupies on a chromosome

Loeys-Dietz syndrome An inherited syndrome characterized by aortic aneurysms and other blood vessel abnormalities in children

Loiasis The disease caused by the eye worm known as loa loa, a parasite that lives in humans and other primates

Loin The portion of the lower back from just below the ribs to the pelvis

Longevity A longer life

Longitudinal Along the length of something

Lou Gehrig disease A classic motor neuron disease, motor neuron diseases are progressive chronic diseases of the nerves that come from the spinal cord responsible for supplying electrical stimulation to the muscles.The disease also known as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Low blood pressure Any blood pressure that is below the normal expected for an individual in a given environment

Low blood sugar A low blood level of the sugar glucose. Also called hypoglycemia

Low placenta Also known as a placenta previa, a location of the placenta in the lower part of the uterus so that the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix

Luetic A person suffering from syphilis (lues)

Lumbar Pertaining to the abdominal segment of the torso,between the diaphragm and the sacrum. The lumbar region is sometimes referred to as the lower spine, or as an area of the back in its proximity

Lumbar puncture A procedure in which cerebrospinal fluid is removed from the spinal canal for diagnostic testing or treatment

Lumbar radiculopathy Nerve irritation caused by damage to the discs between the vertebrae

Lumbar spinal stenosis A condition whereby either the spinal canal (central stenosis) or vertebral foramen (foraminal stenosis) becomes narrowed, leading to compression of the spinal nerves

Lumen Channel within a tube such as a blood vessel or to the cavity within a hollow organ such as the intestine

Lumpectomy The surgical removal of a small tumor, which may be benign or cancerous

Lungs A pair of large,spongy organs optimized for gas exchange between our blood and the air

Lunula The crescent-shaped area at the base of a fingernail or toenail

Lupus A chronic inflammatory disease
that is caused by autoimmunity

Luteinizing hormone B Hormone produced by
gonadotropic cells in the anterior pituitary gland

Luxation Complete dislocation of a joint

Lycopene A red pigment found predominantly in tomatoes (and also in some other fruits) that gives them their color

Lyme disease An inflammatory disease that is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans by the deer tick

Lymph The fluid that circulates throughout the lymphatic system,carrying cells that help fight infection and disease

Lymph node Small, bean- shaped glands throughout the body. They are part of the lymph system, which carries fluid (lymph fluid), nutrients, and waste material between the body tissues and the bloodstream

Lymphadenopathy Abnormally enlarged lymph nodes. Commonly known as swollen glands

Lymphangiogram An X-ray of the lymphatic system for which a dye is injected to outline the lymphatic vessels and organs

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis A lung disease characterized by an unusual type of muscle cell that invades the tissue of the lungs, including the airways, blood vessels, and lymph vessels

Lymphangioma An abnormal structure that consists of a collection of blood vessels and lymph vessels that are overgrown and clumped together

Lymphangitis The red streaking and gland (lymph node) swelling in the area of an injury especially on the extremities, usually caused by a bacterial infection with Streptococcus

Lymphedema A condition in which excess fluid collects in tissue and causes swelling

Lymphocytes A small white blood cell (leukocyte) that plays a major role in defending the body against diseases

Lymphocytic colitis A type of inflammatory disease of the large intestine

Lymphocytosis Having too many lymphocytes

Lymphoid Referring to lymphocytes

Lymphoma A tumor of the lymphoid tissue

Lymphoproliferative LDPs refer to several conditions in which lymphocytes are produced in excessive quantities.They typically occur in people who have a compromised immune system

Lyonization The inactivation of an X-chromosome

Lyophilization A process by which material is rapidly frozen and dehydrated under high vacuum

Lysine An amino acid

Lysis The disintegration of a cell by rupture of the cell wall or membrane

Terminology " K"

2017-12-31T07:21:00.000-08:00

Kabuki syndrome A genetic disorder that effect many parts of the body.In this syndrome ,the facial features of affected individual resemble to the makeup used in Japanese Kabuki theater

Kalemia The presence of abnormal level of potassium in blood

Kallmann syndrome A genetic disorder characterized by an absent sense of smell along with absent or delayed puberty

Karyocyte Any cell that possesses a nucleus

Karyokinesis Division of a cell nucleus during mitosis

Karyotype A test to identify and evaluate the size, shape, and number of chromosomes in a
sample of body cells

Kashin-Beck disease A disorder in which children and adolescents slowly develop stiff deformed joints, shortened limb length and short stature due to necrosis of the growth plates of bones and of joint cartilage

Keloid A pinkish-red irregularly shaped scar that tends to enlarge progressively, and may be harder than the surrounding skin

Keratectomy Removal of part of the cornea

Keratin A protein found in the upper layer of the skin, hair, and nails, and in animal horns

Keratitis Inflammation of the cornea

Keratoconjunctivitis Inflammation of the eye that involves both the cornea and conjunctiva

Keratoconus A cone-shaped cornea, with the apex of the cone being forward

Keratolytic Pertaining to keratolysis

Keratolysis The softening and shedding of the
horny outer layer of the skin

Keratoma An area of hardened skin

Keratosis A localized horny overgrowth of the skin, such as a wart or callus

Keratotomy A surgical cut of the cornea

Kernicterus A disorder in newborn due to severe jaundice in which bilirubin is deposited in the brain and cause brain damage.

Keshan disease A disease caused by the deficiency of the essential mineral selenium

Ketoacidosis An uncontrolled diabetes mellitus characterized by a combination of ketosis and acidosis

Ketone A chemical substance produced when the body has insufficient amount of insulin in blood

Ketone bodies Chemical produced by the liver and used peripherally as an energy source when glucose is not readily available

Ketonuria Presence of abnormally high amount of ketones and ketone bodies in urine

Kidney One of a pair of organs located in the right and left side of the abdomen

Kidney scoping A procedure for doing surgery within the kidney using a flexible ureteroscope

Kidney stone A stone in the kidney or a stone that originates in the kidney but has passed lower down in the urinary tract

Kikuchi disease A disorder that typically causes swollen glands in the neck together with fever or flu like symptoms

Kindred The extended family

Kinesin A family of microtubule motor proteins active in mitosis

Kinetic With movement

Kinome A subset of the genome consisting of the protein kinase genes.

Kinship Relationship by marriage

Kissing disease A very common illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) . The infection can be spread by saliva and less severe in young children than adults.

Klinefelter syndrome A condition in males who have XXY sex chromosomes, rather than the usual XY

Klumpke palsy Paralysis of the muscles of the forearm and hand due to an injury to the roots of eighth cervical and first thoracic roots or the lower part of the brachial plexus

Knee One of the largest and most complex joints in the body. The knee joins the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). The smaller bone that runs alongside the tibia (fibula) and the kneecap (patella) are the other bones that make the knee joint

Knee bursitis A bursa is a fluid filled sac that functions as a gliding surface to reduce friction between moving tissues of the body

Kneecap The patella, the small bone in the front of the knee

Knockout Inactivation of specific genes

Knuckle The top of the flexed finger joint

Kostmann disease Children born with this condition lack neutrophils

Krabbe disease A progressive degenerative disorder of the nervous system that involves the destruction of myelin, a fatty material that surrounds and insulates nerves

Kwashiorkor A childhood disease that is caused by protein deprivation

Kyphoplasty A minimally invasive surgery used to treat a spinal compression fracture

Kyphoscoliosis A combination of outward curvature (kyphosis) and lateral curvature (scoliosis) of the spine

Kyphosis Outward curvature of the spine, causing a humped back

Terminology "J"

2017-12-30T07:26:00.001-08:00

Jakob's disease A rare, degenerative,invariably fatal brain disorder,better known as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)

Jammed finger An injury of the finger joints

Japanese encephalitis A mosquito-borne flavivirus infection that is the leading cause of viral encephalitis in Asia

Jaundice The yellowish appearance of skin due to a yellow pigment 'bilirubin' formed by the breakdown of dead red blood cells in the liver

Jaw A set of bones that holds your teeth and consist of two main parts , upper part (maxilla) that is unable to move and lower movable part (mandible)

Jejunum The part of the small intestine between the duodenum and ileum

Jennerization The production of immunity to a disease by inoculation of an attenuated form of the virus causing the disease

Jock itch A common fungal infection sometimes referred to as ringworm, involving the skin of the inner thighs,buttocks, and genitals. Also known as tinea cruris

Joint The area where two bones are attached for the purpose of permitting body parts to move

Jugular The principal vein in the front of either side of the neck

Juncture In anatomy, a place where two or more structures join

Junk DNA Noncoding regions of DNA that have no apparent function

Juvenile Between infantile and adult

Juxtaarticular Near a joint

Juxtaposition Latin preposition meaning near, nearby, close

Juxtapyloric Near the pylorus ,the muscular area at the junction of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine

Juxtaspinal Near the spinal column

Juxtavesicular Near the bladder

Terminology "I"

2017-12-25T06:54:00.001-08:00

Iatrapistic Lack of faith in doctors

Iatric Relating to medicine or a physician

Iatromelia An ineffective or negligent medical treatment

Iatromisia An intense dislike of doctors

Ibuprofen A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used to treat pain, swelling, and fever

Ichthyosis Dry, rectangular scales on the skin

Idiopathic Any disease that is of uncertain or unknown origin

Idiopathy A disease or medical condition of unknown origin or which has no apparent cause

Ig Abbreviation for immunoglobulin,a protein produced by plasma cells and lymphocytes

Ileal pouch A surgically created chamber made up of a portion of the lower part of the ileum

Ileoscopy Use of a flexible instrument to examine the ileum

Ileostomy An opening into the ileum

Ileum Part of the small intestine beyond the jejunum and before the large intestine (colon)

Iliac Pertaining to the ilium

Iliac horns Horn-like malformations of the crest of both iliac bones of the pelvis

Imagery Both a mental process (as in imagining) and a wide variety of procedures used in therapy to encourage changes in attitudes,behavior, or physiological reactions.

Immune Protected against infection,usually by the presence of antibodies

Immune complex A cluster of interlocking antigens and antibodies forming a large network of molecules.

Immune response Any reaction by the immune system

Immune system A host defense system comprising many biological structures and processes within an organism that protects against disease

Immune tolerance A state of unresponsiveness to a specific antigen or group of antigens to which a person is normally responsive

Immunity The condition of being immune

Immunization The process by which a person is made immune or resistant to an infectious disease, typically by the administration of a vaccine

Immunocompetence The ability to produce a normal immune response

Immunocompetent Able to develop an immune response

Immunocompromised Having an impaired immune system

Immunocow A cow that has been genetically engineered to produce human antibodies

Immunodeficiency The inability to form a normal immune response

Immunodepressant An agent that can depress or prevent the immune response

Immunogenetics The genetics (pattern of inheritance) of the immune response

Immunoglobulin A protein produced by plasma cells and lymphocytes and characteristic of these types of cells

Immunology A branch of biology that deal with the study of immune systems in all organisms

Implantation The act of setting in firmly

Implicit memory Memory characterized by a lack of conscious awareness in the act of recollection

Impotence A common problem among men characterized by the consistent inability to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse or the inability to achieve ejaculation, or both

In vitro In glass, as in a test tube

In vivo In the living organism

Inbreeding The mating of two closely related persons

Incest Sexual activity between individuals so closely related that marriage is legally prohibited

Incidence The frequency with which something, such as a disease or trait, appears in a particular population or area

Incision A cut through skin or other tissue performed by a health care professional

Incisional biopsy A biopsy in which only a sample of the suspicious tissue is cut from a mass and removed for purposes of diagnosis

Incontinence The inability to control excretions

Incubation period In medicine, the time from the moment of exposure to an infectious agent until signs and symptoms of the disease appear

Incubator An apparatus in which environmental conditions can be set and controlled

Incurable Incapable of being cured, healed and
made well again

Incus One of the three tiny bones in the middle ear

Indication In medicine, a condition which makes a particular treatment or procedure advisable

Infantile myxedema subnormal activity of the thyroid gland that starts after birth and is manifest by features including delays in growth and development and myxedema surfacing during infancy

Infarct An area of tissue death that is due to a local lack of oxygen

Infarction The formation of an infarct

Infection The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are not normally present within the body

Infectivity The ability of a pathogen to establish an infection

Inferior Below or toward the feet

Inferolateral Below and to one side.Both inferior and lateral

Infertile Not able to conceive after a year of regular intercourse without contraception

Infertility Inability to conceive after having regular unprotected sex

Infiltrate To permeate something by penetrating its pores or interstices

Inflammation The complex biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli,such as pathogens, damaged
cells, or irritants, and is a protective response involving immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators

Influenza An acute respiratory illness caused by influenza A or B viruses

Infuse In medicine, to introduce a solution into the body through a vein.

Inguinal Having to do with the groin

Inhalant A broad range of household and industrial chemicals whose volatile vapors or pressurized gases are concentrated and breathed in via the nose or mouth to produce intoxication

Inheritance The transmission of a gene from parent to child

Inhibin One of two hormones (designated inhibin-A and inhibin-B) secreted by the gonads (by Sertoli cells in the male and the granulosa cells in the female)and that inhibit the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) by the pituitary gland

Injure To harm, hurt, or wound

Innate immunity Immunity that is naturally present and is not due to prior sensitization to an antigen

Innervate To supply with nerves

Inotropic Affecting the force of muscle contraction

Insecticide A chemical used specifically to kill or control the growth of insects

Insemination The deposition of semen in the female reproductive tract.

Insinuate To introduce slowly, through a.winding or narrow passage, or by a persistent movement

Insomnia The perception or complaint of inadequate or poor-quality sleep

Inspissate To thicken

Insulin A natural hormone made by the pancreas that controls the level of the sugar glucose in the blood

Insulinoma A tumor of the beta cells in areas of the pancreas called the islets of Langerhans

Integrin One of a large and very important family of adhesion molecules that promote stable interactions between cells and their environment

Integron A mobile DNA element that can capture and carry genes,particularly those responsible for antibiotic resistance

Interatrial septum The partition that separates the upper chambers (atria) of the heart

Intercellular Located or occurring between cells

Interferon A naturally occurring substance that interferes with the ability of viruses to reproduce.Interferon also boosts the immune system

Interleukins Members of the broader group of cytokines that alter the behavior of cells

Interneuron A neuron which transmits impulses between other neurons, especially as part of a reflex arc

Internist A physician who specializes in the diagnosis and medical treatment of adults

Interphase The interval in the cell cycle between two cell divisions, during which the individual chromosomes cannot be distinguished

Intersex A disorders of sexual development (DSDs) in which there is a discrepancy between the appearance of the external genitalia and the type of internal (testes and ovaries) genitalia

Interstitial Pertaining to being between things, especially between things that are normally closely spaced

Intertrigo An inflammatory condition of skin folds, induced or aggravated by heat,moisture, maceration,friction, and lack of air circulation

Intestinal villus A tiny projection from the surface of the small intestine which helps absorb nutrients and fluids

Intestine A long,continuous tube running from the stomach to the anus that completes the process of digestion. It consists of the small and large intestines

Intracellular Within a cell

Intracerebral hematoma Bleeding within the brain

Intracorporeal situated or occurring within the body

Intracranial Within the cranium

Intractable Unstoppable

Intradermal In the skin

Intraepithelial Within the layer of cells that forms the surface or lining of an organ

Intrafallopian Within the fallopian tube

Intrahepatic Within the liver

Intraocular In the eye

Intraoperative During surgery

Intraoral Within the mouth

Intraperitoneal Within the peritoneal cavity, the area that contains the abdominal organs

Intrauterine In the uterus

Intravenous feeding Feeding through a vein

Intraventricular In the ventricle of the heart or the brain.

Intravitreous In the vitreous, the fluid behind the lens in the eye

Introitus An entrance that goes into a canal or hollow organ

Intron Part of a gene that is initially transcribed into the primary RNA transcript but is later removed from it ,when the exon sequences on either side of it are spliced together

Intubate To put a tube in

Intubation The process of putting a tube into a hollow organ or passageway, often into the airway

Intussusception folding (prolapse) of a portion of the intestine within another immediately adjacent portion of intestine, which predominantly affects children

Inverse psoriasis Also called flexural psoriasis, a form of psoriasis found in the armpits, groin, under the breasts and in other flexion creases (skin folds) such as those around the genitals and buttocks

Inverted repeat A sequence of nucleotides in the DNA that is identical to another except that it has been reversed (inverted) in direction

Involution A retrograde change

Iontophoresis A transdermal delivery system in which a substance bearing a charge is propelled through the skin by a low electrical current

Iritis Inflammation of the interior eye structures

Irradiation The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays,neutrons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors

Irrigate To wash out

Ischemia Inadequate blood supply to a local area due to blockage of blood vessels leading to that area

Ischial bursitis Inflammation of the bursa that separates the gluteus maximus muscle of the buttocks from the underlying bony prominence of the bone that we sit on, the ischial tuberosity

Ischium The bone that makes up the lower-rear part of the pelvis

Islets of Langerhans Also known as the insulin-producing tissue, are groups of specialized cells in the pancreas that make and secrete hormones

Isocellular Composed of cells of the same size and type

Isochromosome An abnormal chromosome that has two identical arms due to duplication of one arm and loss of the other

Isodisomy A remarkable situation in which both chromosomes in a pair are from one parent only

Isoflavone A phytoestrogen (plant estrogen) found chiefly in soybeans

Isoform A protein that has the same function as another protein but which is encoded by a different gene and may have small differences in its sequence

Terminology "H"

2017-12-18T05:58:00.003-08:00

Habitual abortion The miscarriage of 3 or more consecutive pregnancies, a form of infertility, sometimes due to chromosome abnormalities or other genetic causes

Habitus The physique or body build

Hair follicle A sac from which a hair grows and into which the sebaceous (oil) glands open

Hairball A wad of swallowed hair.Hairballs sometimes cause blockage of the digestive system, especially at the exit of the stomach

Halitosis An unpleasant odor from the mouth, commonly referred to as bad breath

Hallermann-Streiff syndrome A rare congenital condition characterized by abnormalities of the skull and bones of the face, characteristic facial features; sparse hair, degenerative skin changes, eye abnormalities, dental defects, and proportionate short stature

Hallervorden-Spatz disease A genetic disorder in which there is progressive neurologic degeneration with the accumulation of iron in the brain

Hallucination A profound distortion in a person's perception of reality, typically accompanied by a powerful sense of reality

Hallucinogen A drug that causes hallucinations (profound distortions in a person's perceptions of reality).Under the influence of hallucinogens,people see images, hear sounds, and feel sensations that seem real but do not exist

Hallux The big toe

Hallux valgus A condition in which the big toe (hallux) is bent outward (toward the midline of the foot; valgus) so that it overlaps the second toe

Hallux varus A condition in which the joint of the big toe is bent inward (away from the midline of the foot)

Hamartoma A benign (noncancerous) tumor-like growth consisting of a disorganized mixture of cells and tissues normally found in the area of the body where the growth occurs

Hammer toe A condition in which the toe is flexed (curly), but with no abnormal rotation of the toe

Hamstring One of the prominent tendons at the back of the knee. The hamstrings are the side walls of the hollow behind the knee (popliteal space). Both hamstrings connect to muscles that flex the knee

Hand-arm vibration syndrome A disorder resulting from prolonged exposure to vibration, specifically to the hands and forearms while using vibrating tools

Handedness The preferential use of one hand for most fine manual tasks

Hangman's fracture A broken neck involving a fracture of an upper cervical vertebra similar to the injury suffered in death by hanging

Hansen disease Leprosy, a chronic granulomatous infection caused by a bacterium which affects various parts of the body, including in particular the
skin and nerves

Haploid A set of chromosomes that contains only one member of each chromosome pair

Haploinsufficiency A situation in which the total level of a gene product (a particular protein) produced by the cell is about half of the normal level and that is not sufficient to permit.the cell to function normally

Hapten small molecules that elicit an immune response only when attached to a large carrier such as a protein; the carrier may be one that also does not elicit an immune response by itself

Hard measles An acute highly contagious viral disease with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a spreading skin rash

Hard palate The first section of the bony part of the roof of the mouth,located in front of the soft palate

Harlequin ichthyosis very rare,severe inherited (genetic) disorder that results in hard, thick skin that forms diamond-shaped plates that are separated by cracks or fissures.

Hashimoto disease A progressive disease of the thyroid gland characterized by the presence of antibodies directed against the thyroid and by infiltration of the thyroid gland by lymphocytes

Hb (hemoglobin) Hb is the standard abbreviation for hemoglobin

HBIG Hepatitis B immune globulin, which contains antibodies to hepatitis B virus (HBV)

Hepatitis B virus A virus which primarily causes inflammation of the liver.virus can be transmitted in several ways including blood transfusion, needle sticks, body piercing and tattooing using unsterile instruments, dialysis, sexual and even less intimate close contact, and childbirth

High density lipoprotein cholesterol Lipoproteins, which are combinations of fats (lipids) and proteins, are the form in which lipids are transported in the blood

HDR syndrome The syndrome of familial Hypoparathyroidism,sensorineural Deafness, and Renal dysplasia. Inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, the syndrome is caused by haploinsufficiency of the GATA3 gene in chromosome 10p

Headache A pain in the head with the pain being above the eyes or the ears,behind the head (occipital), or in the back of the upper neck

Health physics The science of human health and radiation exposure.Health physics, also called medical physics

Heart-lung machine A machine that does the work both of the heart and of the lungs: pumping and oxygenating blood

Heartburn An uncomfortable feeling of burning and warmth occurring in waves rising up behind the breastbone (sternum) toward the
neck

Heat cramps Painful muscle spasms in the abdomen, arms, or legs following strenuous activity. The skin is usually moist and cool and the pulse is normal or slightly raised. Body temperature is mostly normal. Heat cramps often are caused by a lack of salt in the body

Heat exhaustion A warning that the body is getting too hot. The person may be thirsty, giddy, weak,uncoordinated, nauseous, and sweating profusely. The body temperature is usually normal and the pulse is normal or raised

Heat prostration Overheating of the body due to extreme weather conditions

Hashimoto disease A progressive disease of the thyroid gland characterized by the presence of antibodies directed against the thyroid and by infiltration of the thyroid gland by lymphocytes

Heat prostration Overheating of the body due to extreme weather conditions

Heat stroke A core body temperature that rises above 104 F (40 C) accompanied by hot, dry skin and central nervous system abnormalities such as delirium,convulsions, or coma

Heat syncope Sudden dizziness, feeling faint and sometimes fainting experienced after exercising in the heat. The skin appears pale and sweaty but is generally moist and cool.The pulse may be weakened, and the heart rate is usually rapid. Body temperature is normal

Heatliness A characteristic of certain foods or other substances believed to cause emotional or physical reactions associated with temper, fever, passion, and excess

Hecht syndrome An inherited disorder that is transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait, in which short, tight muscles make it impossible to open the mouth fully or keep the fingers straight when the hand is flexed back

Hecht's pneumonia Also known as giant cell pneumonia, this is a deadly but fortunately rare complication of measles. It tends to strike children who are immunodeficient as from leukemia or HIV/AIDS

Hedonophobia An abnormal,excessive, and persistent fear of pleasure

Heebie-jeebies Extreme nervousness

Heel bone A large bone that forms the foundation of the rear part of the foot. The calcaneus connects with the talus and cuboid bones. The connection between the talus and calcaneus forms the subtalar joint

Heel prick A simple procedure in which a newborn baby's heel is pricked and then a small amount of the blood is collected, usually with a narrow-gauge ("capillary") glass tube or a filter paper. It is used to do the newborn screening tests and usually done
before the baby leaves the hospital

Heel spur A bony spur projecting from the back or underside of the heel that often makes walking painful

Hejama Alternate Arabic term for cupping

HeLa cell One of the cells grown from the cervical cancer of a young African- American woman, Henrietta Lacks.HeLa cells were the first human cells to be continuously grown in culture

Helicase An enzyme that unwinds double-strand DNA into two single DNA strands

Helicobacter heilmannii A bacterium that infects most cats, dogs, and pigs and causes them stomach inflammation (gastritis). H. heilmannii is not usually transmitted from animals to people, but people who have been infected by H. heilmannii are known to
have developed gastric and duodenal ulcers

Helicobacter pylori A bacterium that causes stomach inflammation (gastritis) and ulcers in the stomach and duodenum. This bacterium is the most common cause of ulcers worldwide

HELLP syndrome A combination of the breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis; the H in the acronym),elevated liver enzymes (EL), and low platelet count (LP) occurring in pregnancy. HELLP syndrome has been considered to be a complication of preeclampsia and eclampsia (toxemia) of pregnancy, but the syndrome can also occur on its own

Helminthphobia An abnormal and persistent fear of being infested with parasitic worms called helminths

Helper cell A type of T cell that participates in the immune response by recognizing foreign antigens and secreting substances called cytokines that activate T and B cells

Hemangioma A benign tumor formed by a collection of excess blood vessels. A hemangioma may be visible through the skin as a birthmark, known colloquially as a 'strawberry mark.'

Hemarthrosis Blood in a joint

Hematemesis Bloody vomit

Hematochezia Bright red blood in the stool, usually from the lower gastrointestinal tract

Hematocrit The proportion of the blood that consists of packed red blood cells

Hematohidrosis A rare condition in which an individual is capable of sweating blood

Hematology The diagnosis, treatment,and prevention of diseases of the blood and bone marrow as well as of the immunologic, hemostatic (blood clotting) and vascular systems

Hematoma A localized swelling that is filled with blood caused by a break in the wall of a blood vessel

Hematophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of blood

Hematopoiesis The production of all types of blood cells including formation, development, and differentiation of blood cells

Hematopoietic Pertaining to hematopoiesis

Hematuria Blood in the urine

Hemidesmosome A specialised structure that attaches an epithelial cell to the basement membrane beneath it

Hemidiaphragm Half of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen and that serves as the main muscle of respiration

Hemihyperhidrosis Hyperhidrosis (excess sweating) confined to one side of the body,may occur after a stroke

Hemihypertrophy Asymmetric overgrowth (hypertrophy) of the skull, face, trunk, limbs, and/or digits,with or without visceral involvement

Hemiparesis Weakness on one side of the body

Hemiplegia Paralysis on one side of the body

Hemiplegic Pertaining to hemiplegia

Hemithorax Half of the thorax

Hemizygous Having only a single copy of a gene instead of the customary two copies

Hemochromatosis An inherited disorder characterized by abnormally high absorption of iron by the intestinal tract, resulting in excessive storage of iron, particularly in the liver,skin, pancreas, heart, joints, and testes

Hemodialysis A medical procedure to remove fluid and waste products from the blood and to correct electrolyte imbalances

Hemoglobinuria The presence of free hemoglobin in the urine, which may make the urine look dark. Normally,there is no hemoglobin in the urine.

Hemolysis The destruction of red blood cells which leads to the release of hemoglobin from within the red blood cells into the blood plasma

Hemolytic Referring to hemolysis

Hemolytic anemia A condition in which red blood cells are destroyed and removed from the bloodstream before their normal lifespan is over

Hemophilia An inherited disorder in which the ability of blood to clot normally is impaired

Hemophilia A Classic hemophilia, which is due to a profound deficiency in the activity of clotting factor VIII.Affected individuals suffer
hemorrhage into joints and muscles,easy bruising, and prolonged bleeding from wounds

Hemophilia B Hemophilia due to deficiency of coagulation factor IX in the blood, which results in prolonged oozing after minor and major injuries,tooth extractions, or surgery. There is renewed bleeding after the initial
bleeding has stopped

Hemophilia carrier A female carrying a mutant gene for hemophilia on one of her two X chromosomes and a normal allele on her other X chromosome.

Hemophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of blood

Hemoptysis Spitting up blood or blood-tinged sputum from the respiratory tract

Hemorrhage Bleeding or the abnormal flow of blood

Hemorrhagic Pertaining to bleeding or the abnormal flow of blood

Hemorrhagic cyst This type of functional cyst occurs when bleeding occurs within a cyst

Hemorrhoid A dilated (enlarged) vein in the walls of the anus and sometimes around the rectum, usually caused by untreated constipation but occasionally associated with chronic diarrhea

Hemorrhoidectomy Surgical removal of hemorrhoids (enlarged and dilated veins in and around the anus)

Hemostasis The stoppage of bleeding or hemorrhage

Hendra virus A virus, formerly called equine morbillivirus, that can cause illness in horses and humans

Henna A coloring made from the leaves of the Egyptian privet, Lawsonia inermis. Approved only for use as a hair dye, not for direct application to the skin, as in the body decorating process known as mehndi

Heparin An anticoagulant (anti-clotting) medication

Hepatic Having to do with the liver

Hepatic artery An artery that distributes blood to the liver, pancreas and gallbladder as well as to the stomach and duodenal portion of the small intestine

Hepatic duct A duct that carries bile from the liver into the common bile duct which conveys it to the duodenum

Hepatic encephalopathy Brain dysfunction directly due to liver dysfunction, most often recognized in advanced liver disease

Hepatic hemangioma A common benign tumor of the liver made up of small blood vessels. It is 4-6 times more common in women than men.

Hepatic vein One of the veins which drains blood from the liver

Hepatitis Inflammation of the liver,irrespective of the cause

Hepatitis A Inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is usually transmitted from person to person by food or drink that has been contaminated with the stool of a person with hepatitis A

Hepatitis B Inflammation of the liver due to the hepatitis B virus (HBV), once thought to be passed only through blood products. It is now known that hepatitis B can also be transmitted via needle sticks, body piercing and tattooing using un sterilized instruments, the dialysis process, sexual and even less intimate close contact, and childbirth

Hepatitis C Inflammation of the liver due to the hepatitis C virus (HCV),which is usually spread via blood transfusion (rare), hemodialysis, and needle sticks

Hepatitis D Liver inflammation due to
the hepatitis D virus (HDV), which causes disease only in patients who additionally have the hepatitis B virus. Transmission occurs via infected blood, needles, or sexual contact with an infected person

Hepatitis E A rare form of liver inflammation caused by infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV). It is transmitted via food or drink handled by an infected person or through infected water supplies in areas where fecal matter may get into the water

Hepatitis F It was formerly believed that a virus isolated from rare blood samples was able to cause hepatitis, and this virus was designated hepatitis
F virus

Hepatitis G A virus isolated from the blood of some patients with posttransfusion hepatitis

Hepatobiliary Having to do with the liver plus the gallbladder, bile ducts, or bile

Hepatoblastoma A malignant tumor of the liver. Hepatoblastoma occurs almost exclusively in young children,more commonly in boys than in girls

Hepatocarcinoma Carcinoma (a form of cancer) that originates in liver cells

Hepatology The field of liver disease. The liver is the body's largest organ and hepatology is a large field

Hepatoma Cancer originating in the liver, in liver cells. More often called hepatocarcinoma or hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatomegaly An abnormally enlarged liver

Hepatosplenomegaly Abnormal enlargement of the liver and spleen.

Hepatotoxic Being injurious to the liver

Heptad repeat A type of tandem repeat sequence in which a group of seven aminoacids occurs many times in a protein sequence

Herbalism Also referred to as phytotherapy or botanical medicine, is one of the earliest systems of medicine known

Herbicidal Capable of controlling or destroying plants, weeds, or grasses

Herbicide A chemical pesticide designed to control or destroy plants, weeds, or grasses

Hereditary amyloidosis A familial (inherited) disorder in which protein deposits (amyloid) accumulate in one or more organ systems in the body

Hereditary angioedema A genetic form of angioedema. (Angioedema is also referred to as Quinke's disease.) Persons with it are born lacking an inhibitor protein (called C1 esterase inhibitor) that normally prevents activation of a cascade of proteins leading to the swelling of angioedema

Hereditary angioneurotic edema A genetic form of angioedema due to C1-inhibitor deficiency (HAE-C1-INH). A rare, autosomal-dominant disease

Hereditary atransferrinemia A genetic disorder in which there is absence of transferrin, a plasma protein that transports iron through the blood

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia A genetic disease characterized by the presence of multiple direct connections between arteries and veins called arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)

Hereditary kidney cancer Kidney cancer due to a gene that can be transmitted from parent to child

Hereditary mixed polyposis syndrome (HMPS) A cancer family syndrome characterized by the development of a variety of different types of polyps in the colon, including atypical juvenile polyps and adenomas of the colon,and by the development of colorectal carcinoma (cancer of colon and rectum). HMPS is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner

Hereditary mutation A gene change that occurs in a germ cell and is then incorporated into every cell in the developing body of the new organism

Hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) An hereditary cancer syndrome which carries a very high risk of colon cancer and an above- normal risk of other cancers (uterus, ovary, stomach, small intestine, biliary system, urinary tract, brain, and skin)

Hereditary spherocytosis A genetic disorder of the red blood cell membrane

Heredity The genetic transmission of characteristics from parent to child

Heritability The degree to which something is inherited

Heritable Capable of being transmitted from parent to child

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome A group of genetic diseases characterized by a deficiency of pigment in the skin and eye, a bleeding tendency resulting from a platelet storage pool deficiency, and systemic disorders related to deficient function of lysosomes

Hernia A general term referring to a protrusion of a tissue through the wall of the cavity in which it is normally contained

Herniated disc Rupturing of the tissue that separates the vertebral bones of the spinal column

Herniation Abnormal protrusion of tissue through an opening

Herniorrhaphy The surgical repair of a hernia

Herpangina A viral illness in which small, painful ulcers and sores are found inside the mouth. It is accompanied by sore throat and fever

Herpes A family of viruses. Herpes also refers to infection with one of the human herpesviruses, especially herpes simplex types 1 and 2

Herpes simplex type 1 A herpes virus that causes cold sores and fever blisters in and around the mouth

Herpes simplex type 2 A herpes virus that causes genital herpes , which is characterized by sores in the genital area.

Herpetiform virus A virus with the characteristic shape and behavior of a virus in the herpes family

Heterochromatin A genetically inactive part of the genome

Heterochromia Different colors

Heterochromia iridis A difference in color between the iris of one eye and the iris of the other eye

Heteroclite Deviating from the ordinary, irregular or abnormal,anomalous

Heteroerotic Having to do with sexual excitement toward the opposite sex

Heterokaryon A cell with two separate nuclei formed by the experimental fusion of two genetically different cells

Heteromorphism Something that is different in form

Heterophyes A minute parasite that lives in the small intestine of humans,cats, dogs and other mammals who acquire it by eating raw or uncooked contaminated fish

Heteroplasia The replacement of normal tissue of the body by abnormal tissue or by malpositioned normal tissue, a tissue growing in the wrong place

Heteroploid A different chromosome number than the normal number of chromosomes

Heterosexual A person sexually attracted to persons of the opposite sex

Heterotaxy The abnormal placement of organs due to failure to establish the normal left-right patterning during embryonic development

Heterotopic In the wrong place, in an abnormal place, misplaced

Heterozygote An individual who has two different forms of a particular gene, one inherited from each parent

Heterozygous Possessing two different forms of a particular gene,one inherited from each parent

Hexadactyly The presence of an extra digit, a sixth finger or toe, which is a very common congenital malformation (birth defect)

Hexosaminidase A An enzyme which,when deficient, causes Tay-Sachs disease, a progressive fatal neurologic disorder

Hiatal Pertaining to an hiatus, an opening

Hiatal hernia An anatomical abnormality in which part of the stomach protrudes up through the diaphragm into the chest

Hiatus An opening, as in the diaphragm. When there is an unusually wide opening in the diaphragm, there can be a hiatus

Hiccough Hiccups happen when the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen, suddenly contracts. When that happens, air is taken in, and then the voice box closes shut, which is what causes the "hic" sound

Hiccups A hiccup is an extraordinary type of respiratory movement involving a sudden inspiration (intake of air) due to an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm accompanied by closure of the glottis

Hidradenitis suppurativa An illness characterized by multiple abscesses of the skin that form in and around oil and sweat glands and hair follicles,most commonly under the armpits and in the groin area

Hidrosis Sweating, the production of perspiration

High altitude pulmonary edema A life-threatening form of non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs) that occurs in otherwise healthy mountaineers at altitudes typically above 2,500 meters

High blood pressure A repeatedly elevated blood pressure exceeding 140 over 90 mmHg

High blood sugar An elevated level of the sugar glucose in the blood. Also called hyperglycemia

High protein diet A high protein diet is a type of weight loss plan that emphasizes consumption of high-protein-containing foods

Hip bursitis Inflammation of a bursa of the hip

Hippocampus An area deep in the forebrain that helps regulate emotion,learning, and memory

Hippophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of horses

Hirschsprung disease A congenital abnormality (birth defect) of the bowel in which there is absence of the ganglia (nerves) in the wall of the bowel. Nerves are missing starting at the anus and extending a variable distance up the bowel

Hirsutism Having excessive facial and bodily hair

Hirudin An anticlotting agent that prevents blood clots from traveling through the bloodstream to clog up a vessel

His disease This is a parasite (louse-borne) disease that was first recognized in the trenches of World War I and so was called trench fever

Histamine A substance that plays a major role in many allergic reactions,dilating blood vessels and making the vessel walls abnormally permeable

Histamine cephalalgia A distinctive syndrome of headaches, also known as cluster headache or migrainous neuralgia

Histidine An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein. An essential amino acid

Histiocyte A type of white blood cell,also called a macrophage, that is created by the bone marrow

Histo spot A small circular punched-out spot in the retina at a site where spores of the fungus histoplasma (histo) seeded in the eye

Histocompatible Tissue compatible, meaning that the tissue can exist together with tissue of another organism without the immune system rejecting it

Histology The study of the form of structures seen under the microscope

Histone A protein around which DNA coils to form chromatin

Histoplasma A microscopic fungus that causes the disease histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis A disease caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum

HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus The cause of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV has also been called the human lymphotropic virus type III,the lymphadenopathy-associated virus and the lymphadenopathy virus

Hoarseness A term referring to abnormal voice changes

Homeobox gene A gene containing a short DNA sequence of about 180 base pairs.Homeobox genes encode proteins

that bind and regulate the expression of DNA in multicellular organisms

Homeostasis A property of cells,tissues, and organisms that allows the maintenance and regulation of the stability and constancy needed to function properly

Homeotherm A warm-blooded animal

Homicide The killing of a person

Homo sapiens The systematic name used in taxnomy for anatomically modern humans, i.e.

the only extant human species

Homocysteine An amino acid that is produced by the human body, usuallya s a byproduct of consuming meat

Homocystinuria A genetic disease that is due to an enzyme deficiency thatp ermits a buildup of the amino acid homocysteine

Homologous The relationship between two chromosomes that are paired and so are homologs of each other

Homosexual A person sexually attracted to persons of the same sex

Homotrisomy Trisomy of the same chromosome

Homozygote A person who has two identical forms of a particular gene,one inherited from each parent

Homozygous Possessing two identical forms of a particular gene, onei nherited from each parent

Hormone A chemical substance produced in the body that controls and regulates the activity of certain cells or organs

Horripilation A temporary local change in the skin when it becomes rougher due to erection of little muscles, as from cold, fear, or excitement

Human chorionic gonadotropin

A human hormone made by chorionic cells in the fetal part of the placenta.

Humerus The long bone in the upper arm that extends from the shoulder to the elbow

Hybrid The result of a cross between genetically unlike parents

Hydrocele Accumulation of fluid in the coat around the testis

Hydrocephalus An abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain.

Hydronephrosis Distention of the kidney with urine

Hydrophobia An irrational fear of water, to drink or to swim in

Hydroxyapatite A major component and an essential ingredient of normal bone and teeth

Hydroxyurea A drug that inhibits the synthesis of DNA and so is classified as an antimetabolite

Hymen A thin membrane that may completely or partially cover the vaginal opening before first sexual intercourse but that usually disappears before puberty

Hyoglossus The muscle that permits the tongue to be held on the floor of the mouth

Hyperactivity A higher than normal level of activity. An organ can be described as hyperactive if it is more active than usual. Behavior can also be hyperactive

Hysteroscopy A procedure to see inside the uterus (the womb) using a viewing scope that is inserted into the vagina up through the cervix into the uterus

Hydranencephaly A condition in which the cerebral hemispheres of the brain are absent and replaced by sacs filled with cerebrospinal fluid

Hydrazine Hydrazine sulfate, an alternative medicine that has been claimed to be a treatment for cancer

Hypovitaminosis D A Vitamin D deficiency, most commonly results fromi nadequate sunlight exposure

Medical Terminology "G"

2017-12-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

Gait A manner of walking. Observation of gait can provide early diagnostic clues for a number of disorders, including cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, and Rett syndrome

Galactorrhea The spontaneous flow of milk from the nipple at any time other than during nursing

Galactose A sugar found in milk

Galactosemia An inherited disorder of galactose metabolism that occurs in newborns and can result in damage to the liver, brain, kidneys, and other organs in infants due to the accumulation of galactose derivatives in the body

Galeophobia An abnormally large and persistent fear of sharks

Gallbladder A pear-shaped organ located below the liver that stores the bile secreted by the liver

Gallop rhythm An abnormal heart rhythm that pounds in the chest resembling the gallop of a horse when heard during examination with astethoscope

Gallstones Stones that form when substances in the bile harden

Gamete A Germ cell

Gametic Pertaining to the gamete (the sperm or eggs)

Gametogenesis The development and production of the male and female germ cells required to form a new individual

Gametophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of being married

Gamma globulin A major class of immunoglobulins found in the blood, including many of the most common antibodies circulating in the blood

Gamma knife An advanced radiation treatment for adults and children with small to medium brain tumors, abnormal blood vessel formations called arteriovenous malformations, epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, a nerve condition that causes chronic pain, and other neurological conditions

Ganglion A tumor or swelling on top of a joint or the covering of a tendon (tissue that connects muscle to bone). It looks like a sac of liquid (cyst)

Gangrene Tissue death due to loss of adequate blood supply. Sometimes bacteria invade such tissue and accelerate its decay

Gas exchange The primary function of the lungs involving the transfer of oxygen from inhaled air into the blood and the transfer of carbon dioxide from the blood into the exhaled air

Gastrectomy Surgery to remove part or all of the 'stomach

Gastric Having to do with the stomach

Gastric atrophy A condition in which the stomach muscles shrink and become

Gastric sleeve Also known as sleeve gastrectomy, a type of weight loss (bariatric) surgery that renders the stomach smaller

Gastric stapling A surgical procedure that converts the upper part of the stomach into a very small pouch by stapling portions of the stomach together, forcing an obese person to eat only tiny portions yet still feel full

Gastritis Inflammation of the stomach

Gastroenteritis Inflammation of the stomach and the intestines

Gastroesophageal Pertaining to both the stomach and the esophagus

Gastroesophageal reflux The return of stomach contents back up into the esophagus

Gastrointestinal tract The stomach and intestines

Gastroparesis A disease of the muscles of the stomach or the nerves controlling the muscles that causes the muscles to stop working

Gastropathy Disease of the stomach

Gastroschisis A birth defect in which there is a separation in the abdominal wall

Gastroscope A flexible, lighted instrument that is put through the mouth and esophagus to view the stomach

Gastrostomy A surgical opening into the stomach

Gaucher disease A series of disorders that are due to deficient activity of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase, which leads to accumulation of glucocerebroside in tissues of the body

Gene The basic biological unit of heredity

Gene amplification Gene amplification: Making multiple copies of a gene

Gene deletion The total loss or absence of a gene

Gene duplication An extra copy of a gene

Gene expression The translation of information encoded in a gene into protein or RNA structures that are present and operating in the cell

Gene family A group of genes that are related in structure and often in function

Gene mapping The charting of the positions of genes on a DNA molecule or chromosome and the distance, in linkage units or physical units, between genes

Gene markers Detectable genetic traits or distinctive segments of DNA that serve as landmarks for a target gene

Gene pool The sum total of genes, with all their variations, possessed by a particular species at a particular time

Gene product The RNA or protein that results from the expression of a gene

Gene silencing A mechanism by which cells shut down large sections of chromosomal DNA

Gene testing The testing of a sample of blood (or another fluid or tissue) for evidence of a gene

Gene transfer The insertion of unrelated genetic information in the form of DNA into cells

General paresis Progressive dementia and generalized paralysis due to chronic inflammation of the covering and substance of the brain

Generic The chemical name of a drug

Genesis A suffix referring to the beginning, development, or production of something

Genetic Having to do with genes and genetic information

Genetic anticipation A remarkable phenomenon in which a genetic disease appears earlier appearance and with increased from with each succeeding generation

Genetic code The instructions in a gene that tell the cell how to make a specific protein. A, T, G, and C are the 'letters' of the DNA code and represent the chemicals adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine, respectively

Genetic counseling An educational counseling process for individuals and families who have a genetic disease or may be at risk for a disease to facilitate informed decision-making

Genetic discrimination The potential use of genetic information to discriminate against people in the workplace, in health insurance, or in any other arena

Genetic disease A disease caused by an abnormality in an individual's genome

Genetic meltdown A genomic crisis due to an extraordinarily high rate of mutation

Genetic screening Testing of a population to identify individuals who are at risk for a genetic disease or for transmitting a gene for a genetic disease

Genetic testing Tests done for clinical genetic purposes

Genetic transformation A process by which the genetic material carried by an individual cell is altered by the incorporation of foreign (exogenous)DNA into its genome

Genetic transposition The ability of genes to change position on chromosomes, a process in which a transposable element is removed from one site and inserted into a second site in the DNA

Genetics The scientific study of heredity

Genital Pertaining to the external and/or internal organs of reproduction

Genital wart A wart in the moist skin of the genitals or around the anus. Genital warts are due to a human papillomavirus (HPV)

Genitalia The male or female reproductive organs

Genitourinary (GU) Pertaining to the genital and urinary systems

Genome An organism's complete set of DNA, including all of its genes. Each genome contains all of the information needed to build and maintain that organism

Genome annotation The process of identifying the locations of genes and all of the coding regions in a genome and determining what those genes do

Genome Database the official central repository for genomic mapping data resulting from the Human Genome

Genomic Pertaining to the genome, all of the genetic information possessed by any organism

Genomic imprinting The phenomenon of parent-of-origin gene expression.The expression of a gene depends upon the parent who passed on the gene

Genomic library A collection of clones that is made from a set of randomly generated overlapping DNA fragments and that represents the entire genome of an organism

Genomic segment A region of the genome; it encompasses objects described as loci or probes

Genoplasty A technology that uses the repair mechanisms normally present in cells to repair gene defects

Genotoxin A poisonous substance which damages DNA

Genotype The genetic constitution (genome) of a cell, an individual, or an organism

Genu The Latin word for the knee

Gephyrophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of crossing bridges

Gerascophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of growing old

Geriatric medicine The branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease in older people and the problems specific to aging

Germ A cell or group of cells (called a primordium) capable of developing into an organ, a part or an organism in its entirety. Eggs and sperm are germ
cells or A microbe capable of causing disease

Germ cell Either the egg or the sperm cell; a reproductive cell

Germ line The sequence of cells which develop into eggs and sperm

Germanium A nonessential trace element that has caused nephrotoxicity (kidney injury) and death when used chronically by humans, even at recommended levels of use

Germinoma A rare cancer of the germ cells

Germline mutation A heritable change in the DNA that occurred in a germ cell or the zygote at the single-cell stage

Gerontology The study of aging, including its social, psychological,cognitive, and biological aspects

Gestalt therapy A psychotherapeutic concept that stresses understanding mental processes as holistic entities (gestalts) rather than as discrete steps

Gestation The period of time from conception to birth

Gestational carrier A woman who carries a pregnancy and gives birth to a child for another woman or couple

Giardia A genus of protozoa that infect the gastrointestinal tract of some animals, including humans

Giardia lamblia A parasite responsible for a contagious form of diarrhea

Giardiasis Infection with Giardia lamblia

Gigantism Excessive growth both in height and. specific body parts

Gingivitis Gum disease with inflammation of the gums

Gingko biloba An herb that is very popular as a treatment for dementia and to improve thinking

Glabella The area between the eyebrows, just above the nose

Gland A group of cells that secrete a substance for use in the body

Glandular fever Glandular fever is infectious mononucleosis , very common illness caused by
the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)

Glans The rounded head of the clitoris

Glass eye An artificial replacement for an eyeball

Glaucoma A common eye condition in which the fluid pressure inside the eye rises to a level higher than healthy for that eye

Gleason score A grading system for prostate carcinoma devised by Dr.Donald Gleason in 1977 as a method for predicting the behavior of prostate cancer Glenn shunt A palliative surgical procedure for a variety of cyanotic congenital heart diseases.

Glenoid labrum A fibrocartilaginous rim attached around the margin of the glenoid cavity in the shoulder blade

Gilioma A brain tumor that begin in a glial, or supportive, cell, in the brain or spinal cord

Gliosis A process leading to scars in the central nervous system that involves the production of a dense fibrous network of neuroglia (supporting cells) in areas of damage

Glisson's capsule The capsule of the liver. A layer of connective tissue surrounding the liver and ensheathing the hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile ducts within the liver

Glomerular Pertaining to the glomerulus , a tiny structure in the kidney that filters the blood to form urine

Glossal Of or pertaining to the tongue

Glossitis Inflammation of the tongue

Glossolalia Nonsensical sounds that mimic the rhythms and inflections of actual speech. Glossolalia may be seen in deep sleep or in trance states

Glottis The middle part of the larynx, where the vocal cords are located

Glucocorticoid A hormone that predominantly affects the metabolism of carbohydrates and, to a lesser extent, fats and proteins

Glucosamine A molecule derived from the sugar glucose by the addition of an amino group. Glucosamine is a component of a number of structures, including the blood group substances and cartilage

Glucose The simple sugar that is the chief source of energy. Glucose is found in the blood and is the main sugar that the body manufactures

Glucose tolerance test A test of carbohydrate metabolism that is used primarily in the diagnosis of type II diabetes and gestational diabetes

Glutamate A form of glutamic acid

Glutamic acid An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein

Gluteal Pertaining to the buttocks region, which is formed by the gluteus maximus , gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus muscles

Gluten A protein found in wheat or related grains and many foods that we eat

Gluten enteropathy A condition, also called celiac sprue, in which the absorption of food nutrients through the small intestine is impaired by an immune (allergic) reaction to gluten

Gluteus maximus The greatest gluteal muscle and the biggest muscle in the human body. The gluteus maximus forms the bulk of the buttocks

Glycemic index An indicator of the ability of different types of foods that contain carbohydrate to raise the
blood glucose levels within 2 hours

Glycine An amino acid, one of the 20 building blocks of protein

Glycobiology The study of molecules that contain carbohydrates, their structure and function, and the roles they play in biology

Glycohemoglobin Also known as glycosylated hemoglobin, hemoglobin to which glucose is bound, a measure of the long-term control of diabetes mellitus

Glycopeptide A short chain of amino acids that has sugar molecules attached to it

Glycoprotein A molecule that consists of a carbohydrate plus a protein

Glycosylated hemoglobin Hemoglobin to which glucose is bound

Gnashing To grind or strike (the teeth) together, especially in rage or pain

Gnathostomiasis A disease due to the migration of an immature roundworm called Gnathostoma

Goiter A noncancerous enlargement of the thyroid gland

Goitrogenic foods Goitrogenic are foods that can affect thyroid function by inhibiting synthesis of thyroid hormones , resulting in enlargement of the gland (goiter)

Gonad A reproductive gland that produces germ cells

Gonadotropin Hormones that are secreted by the pituitary gland, and that affect the function of the male or female gonads

Gonarthritis Inflammation of the knee

Gonorrhea A bacterial infection that is transmitted by sexual contact

Goose bump A temporary local change in the skin when it becomes rougher due to erection of little muscles, as from cold, fear, or excitement

Gorham disease Also called disappearance bone disease. Extensive loss of calcium from a single bone so that it cannot be seen on x-ray

Gorlin syndrome a genetic disorder inherited in an autosomal dominant manner and characterized by a broad face, rib malformations,and an extraordinary predisposition to basal cell carcinoma

Gottron sign A scaly, patchy redness over the knuckles seen in patients with dermatomyositis

Gouty arthritis An attack that is usually extremely painful of joint inflammation due to deposits of uric acid crystals in the joint fluid (synovial fluid) and joint
lining (synovial lining)

Gower syndrome (situational syncope) The temporary loss of consciousness in particular kinds of situations

Graft Healthy skin, bone, kidney, liver,or other tissue that is taken from one part of the body to replace diseased or injured tissue removed from another part of the body

Graft-versus-host disease A complication of bone marrow transplants in which T cells in the donor bone marrow graft go on the offensive and attack the host's tissues

Grand mal A form of epilepsy characterized by tonic-clonic seizures.involving two phases -- the tonic phase in which the body becomes rigid, and clonic phase in which there is uncontrolled jerking

Grand multipara A woman who has given birth 5 or more times

Grand rounds A formal meeting at which physicians discuss the clinical case of one or more patients

Granular leukocyte A type of white blood cell filled with microscopic granules (tiny sacs) containing enzymes that digest microorganisms

Granulation That part of the healing process in which lumpy, pink tissue cGower syndrome (situational syncope) The temporary loss of consciousness in particular kinds of situations

Granulocytopenia A marked decrease in the number of granulocytes

Granuloma A granuloma is one of a number of forms of localized nodular inflammation found in tissues

Graves' disease Generalized diffuse overactivity ("toxicity") of the entire thyroid gland which becomes enlarged into a goiter

Gray baby syndrome A syndrome due to toxicity of the antibiotic chloramphenicol in the newborn,especially the premature newborn,
because of lack the necessary liver enzymes to metabolize this drug

Gray matter The cortex of the brain, which contains nerve cell bodies

Green fluorescent protein A protein that glows green under fluorescent light. Found naturally in the jellyfish Aequorea victoria, GFP fluoresces green when
exposed to blue light

Growing pains Mysterious pains in growing children, usually in the legs, likely occurring as a result of overuse

Growth hormone A hormone made in the pituitary gland that stimulates the release of another hormone called somatomedin by the liver, thereby causing growth

Guanine One of the four bases in DNA that make up the letters ATGC

Guevedoces individuals reported to apparently change gender naturally at puberty, from female to male

Guillain-Barre syndrome A disorder characterized by progressive symmetrical paralysis and loss of reflexes, usually beginning in the legs

Gum disease Inflammation of the soft tissue (gingiva) and abnormal loss of bone that surrounds the teeth and holds them in place

Gymnophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of nudity

Gynecology The branch of medicine that is particularly concerned with the health of the female organs of reproduction

Gynecomastia Excessive development of the male breasts containing new connective tissue and capillaries forms around the edges of a wound

Medical Terminology "F"

2017-11-24T08:16:00.000-08:00

Facelift A type of cosmetic surgery or facial toning procedure used to give a more youthful facial appearance

Facio-auriculo-vertebral spectrum A rare congenital defect characterized by incomplete development of the ear, nose, soft palate, lip, and mandible

Faciogenital dysplasia A genetic disorder that affects the development of many parts of the body

Factor V A coagulation factor needed for the normal clotting of blood

Factor VIII A key factor in the process of blood coagulation

Facultative Having the capacity to live under more than one specific set of environmental conditions

Fahr syndrome A rare, genetically dominant, inherited neurological disorder characterized by abnormal deposits of calcium in areas of the brain that control movement

Failure to thrive (FTT) A state of undernutrition due to inadequate caloric intake, inadequate caloric absorption, or excessive caloric expenditure

Fainting (syncope) Partial or complete loss of consciousness with interruption of awareness of oneself and ones surroundings

Falciparum malaria The most dangerous type of malaria, which is caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum

Fallopian tube the uterine tubes, are a pair of 4-inch (10 cm) long narrow tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus

False labor Intermittent non-productive muscular contractions of the womb (uterus) during pregnancy, most commonly in the last two months before full term

False negative A result that appears negative when it should not. An example of a false negative would be if a particular test designed to detect cancer returns a negative result but the person actually does have cancer

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy A form of muscular dystrophy that typically begins before age 20 with slowly progressive weakness of the muscles of the face, shoulders, and feet

False rib A rib is said to be false if it does not attach to the sternum

False vocal cord A fold of mucous membrane covering muscle in the larynx

Familial A condition that tends to occur more often in family members than is expected by chance alone

Fanconi anemia A rare, inherited disease that adversely affects all the elements of bone marrow and is associated with malformations of the heart, kidney, and limbs, as well as pigmentary changes of the skin

Fantod A state of nervous anxiety or irritability

Farsightedness An error of refraction in the human eye that causes light rays to focus behind the retina instead of on it

Fart An emission of wind from the anus

Fascia A flat band of tissue below the skin that covers underlying tissues and separates different layers of tissue

Fasciculation Involuntary contractions or twitchings of groups of muscle fibers

Fasciitis An inflammation of the fibrous tissue along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes

Fascinoma Medical slang for a fascinating case , usually involving a rare disease

Fasciolopsis A parasite that is the largest intestinal fluke in humans

Fasting Going without food or drink

Fat Along with proteins and carbohydrates, one of the three nutrients used as energy sources by the body

Fat cell A cell containing fat

Fatigue Feeling of tiredness which is distinct from

weakness, and has a gradual onset

Fatty acid One of many molecules that are long chains of lipid-carboxylic acid found in fats and oils and in cell membranes as a component of

phospholipids and glycolipids

Fauces The narrow passage from the mouth to the pharynx situated between the soft palate and the base of the tongue

Favism A condition characterized by hemolytic anemia (breakup of red blood cells) after eating fava beans (Vicia fava) or being exposed to the pollen of the fava plant

Febrile Having or showing the symptoms of a fever

Fecal Relating to the feces, the stool

Fecalith A hard stony mass of feces in the intestinal tract

Feces The excrement discharged from the intestines

Fecund Abundance or rapidity in bearing offspring

Feedback In order to maintain a stable internal environment, or homeostasis, the body uses negative and positive feedback

Femara An oral antiestrogen

Femicide The killing of women. For example, AIDS in Africa has been termed "mass femicide."

Femoral Of or relating to the thigh or femur

Femur The single bone in the thigh, which is the largest bone in the human body

Fenestration The creation of a new opening

Ferritin The major protein concerned with iron storage

Fertile Able to conceive and bear offspring

Fertility The ability to conceive and bear children

Fertilization The process of combining the male gamete, or sperm, with the female gamete, or ovum

Fetishism A problem in which a person has sexual urges associated with non-living objects. The person becomes sexually aroused by wearing or touching the object

Fetus An unborn offspring, from the embryo stage (the end of the eighth week after conception, when the major structures have formed) until birth

Fibril A small fiber, a fine thread

Fibrillation an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications

Fibrin The protein that is formed during normal blood clotting and that is the essence of the clot

Fibroadenoma The most common benign tumor of the breast and the most common breast tumor in women under 30 years of age

Fibroblast a type of cell that synthesizes the

extracellular matrix and collagen, the structural

framework (stroma) for animal tissues, and plays a critical role in wound healing

Fibroid A common benign tumor of the uterus

Fibroma A benign tumor consisting of a mass of connective tisue cells that have a spindle shape

Fibromyalgia A disease characterized by chronic pain, stiffness, and tenderness of muscles, tendons, and joints, without detectable inflammation

Fibrosarcoma A malignant tumor consisting of fibroblasts

Fibrositis A condition which is characterized by

pain, especially in the lumbar and cervical regions, and only occasionally in other movable parts

Fibula The smaller of the two bones in the lower leg

Filariasis Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by an infection with roundworms of the Filarioidea type

Filial The first generation that results from the

crossing of two parental lines, as the filial generation

Filler An inactive substance used to make the active medicine easier to measure

Film Slang shortening of X-ray film

Finger prick A procedure in which a finger is pricked with a lancet to obtain a small quantity of capillary blood for testing

Finger stick A procedure in which a finger is pricked with a lancet to obtain a small quantity of capillary blood for testing

Fingerprint The characteristic dermal ridges on the finger

Fissure A small tear in the thin, moist tissue (mucosa)

that lines the anus

Fistula An abnormal passageway in the body

Fistulize To form or make a fistula, an abnormal passageway

Fixative A medium such as a solution or spray that preserves specimens of tissues or cells

Flail chest A condition that occur when enough ribs are broken (usually from a crush injury) to compromise the rigidity of the chest wall

Filler An inactive substance used to make the active medicine easier to measure

Film Slang shortening of X-ray film

Finger prick A procedure in which a finger is pricked with a lancet to obtain a small quantity of capillary blood for testing

Finger stick A procedure in which a finger is pricked with a lancet to obtain a small quantity of capillary blood for testing

Fingernail A horn-like envelope covering the tips of the fingers and toes in most primates and a few other mammals

Fingerprint The characteristic dermal ridges on the finger

First cranial nerve The olfactory nerve,the nerve that permits the sense of smell

Fish bowl granuloma Localized nodular skin inflammation (small reddish raised areas of skin) caused by a bacterium called mycobacterium marinum

Fish odor syndrome An inborn error of metabolism that is associated with an.offensive body odor whose scent is similar to the smell of rotting fish

Fissure A small tear in the thin, moist tissue (mucosa) that lines the anus

Fistula An abnormal passageway in the body. The fistula may go from the body surface into a blindpouch or into an internal organ or go between two internal organs

Fistulize To form or make a fistula, an abnormal passageway

Five-day fever A moderately serious disease
transmitted by body lice.The disease persists among the homeless

Fixative A medium such as a solution or spray that preserves specimens of tissues or cells

Flail chest A condition that occurs when enough ribs are broken (usually from a crush injury ) to compromise the rigidity of the chest wall

Flare A transient worsening in severity of a disease or condition that eventually subsides or lessens

Flashing An intense, sexually arousing fantasies, urges or behaviors involving exposure of the individual's genitals to an unsuspecting stranger

Flat affect A severe reduction in emotional expressiveness

Flat feet Absence of an arch in the sole of the foot that causes the foot to lie flat when the person is standing

Flatulence Excess gas in the intestinal tract

Flatulent Pertaining to flatulence

Flatus Gas in the intestinal tract or gas passed through the anus

Flexion The condition of being bent, especially the bending of a limb or joint

Flexural psoriasis A form of psoriasis found in the armpits, groin, under the breasts and in other flexion creases (skin folds) such as those around the genitals and buttocks

Floater A blurry spot that seems to drift in front of the eyes but does not block vision

Floating elbow A situation in which there are fractures of both the forearm and humerus (upper arm bone) in the same extremity

Floating rib One of the last two ribs. A rib is said to be "floating" if it does not attach to the sternum (the breast bone) or to another rib

Flora The population of microbes inhabiting the outside or inside surfaces of people (or other animals)

Fluoride A compound of fluorine with another element or radical

Fluorobody A hybrid molecule that combines the affinity and specificity of an antibody with the visibility of a green fluorescent protein

Fluorosis An abnormal condition caused by excessive intake of fluorine, characterized chiefly by mottling of the teeth

Flush A redness of the skin, typically over the cheeks or neck. A flush is usually temporary and brought on by excitement, exercise, fever, or embarrassment

Focal A localized area of disease

Folate Folic acid, one of the B vitamins that is a key factor in the synthesis (the making) of nucleic acid (DNA and RNA)

Folding motif An independent folding unit, or particular structure, that recurs in many molecules

Folinic acid The active form of folic acid in the body

Folliclular cyst Fluid-filled pockets of tissue that
can develop on or in your ovaries

Folliculitis An infection or inflammation of the hair follicles of the skin

Food irradiation A food safety technology designed to eliminate disease-causing germs from foods.
Treating food with ionizing radiation can kill bacteria and parasites that would otherwise cause foodborne
disease

Foramen A natural opening. Although a foramen is usually through bone, it can be an opening through other types of tissue, as with the foramen ovale in the heart

Foramina The plural of foramen, a natural opening

Forceps An instrument that has two blades and a handle and is used for handling, grasping, or compressing

Forearm The portion of the upper limb from the elbow to the wrist

Forensic Dealing with the application of scientific knowledge to legal problems and legal proceedings

Foreskin The fold of skin which covers the head (the glans) of the penis

Formaldehyde A pungent gas, with the chemical formula HCHO, used as an antiseptic , disinfectant, and especially today as a fixative for histology

Formication The illusion or hallucination that ants or other insects are creeping on or under the skin

Formulary A listing of prescription drugs approved for use

Fornication Sexual intercourse that is "illicit", outside of marriage

Fovea In the eye, a tiny pit located in the macula of the retina that provides the clearest vision of all

Fracture A break in bone or cartilage

Frambesia A common chronic infectious disease that occurs mainly in the warm humid regions of the tropics with characteristic bumps on the skin of the face, hands, feet and genital area

Freckle A flat circular spot on the skin about the size of the head of a nail that develops after repeated exposure to sunlight, particularly in someone of fair complexion

Frenulum A physical structure that has a restraining function

Frigidity failure of a female to achieve an orgasm (anorgasmia) during sexual intercourseractures of both the forearm and humerus (upper arm bone) in the same extremity

Medical Terminology "E"

2017-11-20T07:30:00.001-08:00

Eagle syndrome Inflammation of the styloid process, a spike-like growth that projects out of the base of the skull

Echocardiography a test that uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to make pictures of your heart

Echolalia The involuntary parrotlike repetition of phrases, words or parts of words just spoken by another person

Ecchymosis Nonraised skin discoloration caused by the escape of blood into the tissues from ruptured

blood vessels

Echinacea An herb that has been claimed to boost the body's immune system and help fight off infections

Echinococcosis A Parasitic disease caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Echinococcus

Echopraxia The involuntary repetition or imitation of another person's actions

Eclampsia A life-threatening complication of pregnancy where high blood pressure results in seizures during pregnancy

Ecogenetics The interaction of genetics with the environment

Ecstasy A trance or trance-like state in which a person transcends normal consciousness

Ectoderm One of the three primary germ cell layers

Ectodermal Pertaining to the ectoderm

Ectomy Surgical removal of all or part of a specified organ

Ectoparasite A parasite that lives on or in the skin but not within the body

Ectoparasitosis Infestation with an ectoparasite, a parasite that lives on or in the skin

Ectopic In the wrong place, out of place

Ectrodactyly The congenital absence of all or part of one or more fingers or toes

Ectropion a condition in which the eyelid is turned outward from the eyeball

Eczema a condition that makes your skin red and itchy

Edema The swelling of soft tissues as a result of excess fluid accumulation

Edentulism Complete loss of all natural teeth

Effacement The process by which the cervix prepares for delivery

Efferent Conveying or conducting away from an organ or part

Effusion Accumulation of fluid in an anatomic space, usually without loculation

Eicosanoid A lipid mediator of inflammation derived from the 20-carbon atom arachidonic acid or a similar fatty acid

Eidetic an ability to vividly recall images from memory after only a few instances of exposure, with high precision for a brief time after exposure,without using a mnemonic device

Eisoptrophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of mirrors

Ejaculate To release semen during an orgasm in a male

Elastin A protein that coil and recoils like a spring within the elastic fibers of connective tissue and accounts for the elasticity of structures

Elbow The juncture of the long bones in the middle portion of the upper extremity

Electrocardiogram A recording of the electrical activity of the heart

Electrocoagulation The coagulation (clotting) of tissue using a high-frequency electrical current applied locally with a metal instrument or needle with the aim of stopping bleeding

Electrocochleography A test that measures the electrical potentials generated in the inner ear in response to stimulation by sound

Electrodesiccation Use of an electric current to destroy cancerous tissue and control bleeding

Electroencephalogram A technique for studying the electrical currents within the brain

Electrogastrogram A test in which the electrical current generated by the muscle of the stomach is sensed and recorded

Electrolarynx A battery-operated instrument that makes a humming sound to help people who have lost their larynx talk

Electrolysis Permanent removal of body hair, including the hair root, with an electronic device

Electromyogram A test that records the electrical activity of muscles

Electronystagmogram A recording of the eye movements, usually done to confirm the presence of nystagmus

Epiphysis The growth area near the end of a bone

Episclera A thin membrane that covers the sclera (the white of the eye)

Episcleritis Inflammation of the episclera

Episiotomy A surgical procedure for widening the outlet of the birth canal to facilitate delivery of the baby and to avoid a jagged rip of the area between the anus and the vulva

Epispadias A rare type of malformation of the penis in which the urethra ends in an opening on the upper aspect of the penis

Epistaxis Bleeding from the nostril, nasal cavity, or

nasopharynx due to the bursting of a blood vessel within the nose

Epistemic The process of knowing and, more precisely, the process of being aware, knowing, thinking, learning and judging

Epithelium The outside layer of cells that covers all the free, open surfaces of the body including the skin, and mucous membranes that communicate with the outside of the body

Epizootic An epidemic outbreak of disease in an animal population, oftenwith the implication that it may extend to humans

Epitope A single antigenic site on a protein against which an antibody reacts

Eponym Something named after someone

Equinophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of horses

Equol A substance produced in the intestine as a metabolite of soybeans and soy foods

Erectile dysfunction A consistent inability to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse

Ergophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of work

Ergot A fungus (Claviceps purpurea) that contaminates rye and wheat and that produces substances (alkaloids) called ergotamines

Ergotism A condition that develops from ergotamines, substances produced due to fungal contamination of grains

Erosion An erosion is an eating away of a surface

Erotomania A type of delusional disorder where the affected person believes that another person is in love with him or her.This belief is usually applied to someone with higher status or a famous person, but can also be applied to a complete stranger

Eructation Better known as burping or belching. Casting up wind (expelling air) from the stomach

through the mouth

Erythema Redness of the skin that results from capillary congestion

Erythrasma A chronic superficial slowly spreading skin infection,especially in the folds of the body and webs between the toes, caused by a bacterium called Corynebacterium

Erythrocyanosis Discoloration on the legs that has a bluish or purple hue

Erythrocyte A cell that contains hemoglobin and can carry oxygen to the body

Erythroleukemia a neoplastic proliferation of erythroid and myeloid precursor of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells

Erythrophobia An abnormal and persistent fear of blushing

Erythroplakia An abnormal reddened patch with a velvety surface that is found in the mouth.Erythroplakia carries an increased risk for becoming a cancer in the oral cavity

Erythroprosopalgia A distinctive syndrome of headaches, also known as cluster headache or migrainous neuralgia

Eschar The scab formed when a wound or skin is sealed by the heat of cautery or burning

Esophagitis Inflammation of the esophagus

Esotropia A form of strabismus in which one or both eyes turns inward

Estrogen A female steroid hormone that is produced by the ovaries and, in lesser amounts, by the adrenal cortex, placenta, and male testes

Medical Terminology "D"

2017-11-19T04:59:00.000-08:00

Defibrillation To arrest the fibrillation of (heart muscle) by applying electric shock across the chest

Dehiscence a surgical complication in which a wound ruptures along a surgical incision

Dental relating to the teeth

Dermatitis inflammation of the skin

Dermatologist a trained physician who specializes in the physiology of the skin

Dermatome an area of skin that is mainly supplied by a single spinal nerve

Dermatosis a skin disease that doesn't cause inflammation

Diagnosis the process of determining by examination the nature and circumstances of a diseased condition

Diagnostician a physician specializing in medical diagnostics

Diaphragm muscular partition in the chest used in respiration

Dilation act of expanding an aperture

Medical Terminology "C"

2017-11-16T08:51:00.002-08:00

Carcinogenic Potential of causing cancer

Carcinoma A type of malignant cancer derived from epithelial tissues

Cardiac arrest A condition occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body.

Cardiology A branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the heart as well as parts of the circulatory system

Cardiologist A medical specialist who offers consultation on heart diseases and cardiac disorders

Cardiomegaly abnormal enlargement of the heart

Carditis Inflammation of the heart

Cauterization A technique of destroying tissue with a hot iron or caustic agent or by freezing

Central inner or near an inner area

Cephalagia symptom of pain observed in head, face and upper cervical dermatome

Cephalic Of or relating to the head

Cephalometry measurement of human heads

Cerebrospinal relating to brain and spine

Cerebrovascular relating to the brain and its blood vessels

Cerebrum the most superior and anterior of the brain's major regions

Cheilitis inflammation of the lips

Cheiloschisis a congenital cleft in the middle of the upper lip

Cheilosis a painful inflammation and cracking of the corners of the mouth

Chemotherapy the use of medication to destroy cancer cells

Cheyne-Stokes respiration periodic respiration, is an abnormal pattern of breathing

Cholecystectomy surgical removal of the gall bladder

Cholecystitis inflammation of the gall bladder

Cholecalciferol a type of vitamin D which is made by the skin, found in some foods, and taken as a dietary supplement

Chondrodystrophy a disorder that begins before birth interferes with the body's normal development of cartilage

Chronic an illness or medical condition that is characterized by long duration or frequent recurrence

Chronic pyelonephritis chronic relapsing inflammatory destruction of renal tissue

Circumduction conical movement of a limb extending from the joint

Climateric the end of menstrual cycle in women's life

Colic intense abdominal pain (especially in infants)

Colitis inflammation of the colon

Celiocentesis removal of fluid from the abdomen by centesis

Colonoscope a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera and a light on the end for examining the entire colon from cecum to rectum

Conception the moment when egg and sperm meet

Corneal of or related to the cornea

coronary thrombosis the formation of a blood clot inside a blood vessel of the heart

Craniotomy the surgical removal of part of the bone from the skull

Craniometer an instrument that measures the sizes of skull

Cranium Part of skull that closes the brain

Cryptorchidism the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum

Cyanosis the bluish or purplish discolouration of the skin or mucous membranes

Cystoparalysis paralysis of the urinary bladder

Cystoplegia paralysis of the urinary bladder

Cystitis inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by a bladder infection

Cytoplast the intact cytoplasmic content of a cell

Medical Terminology "B"

2017-11-15T04:34:00.000-08:00

B CELL A lymphoid cell lineage that differentiates under the influence of bursa-equivalent tissue in mammals to give rise antibody-forming plasma cells.

B VIRUS B virus is generally known as monkey B virus or herpes B virus carried by the majority of adult macaque monkeys. The virus not only affects monkeys but also humans causing them an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord , although the infection in humans is extremely rare.

BABESIOSIS Babesiosis is a parasitic disease of livestock transmitted in humans via tick bite affecting red blood cells and causing discharge of red or blackish urine.

BABESIA Babesia is also known as Piroplasm, a malaria-like tiny parasite affecting human red blood cells and causing Babesiosis.

BABINSKI REFLEX Babinski reflex is a kind of reflex in infants which is usually tested by a doctor by stimulating the sole of the infant's foot. If a big toe goes up, it indicates a neurological abnormality.

BABINSKI SIGN Babinski sign is a primitive reflex in infants which indicates either a child is neurologically mature or not. Babinski sign is normal in infants, but it can show damage to the central nervous system if occur later in life.

BABY BLUES Baby blues is a kind of depression in which many women suffer from the feeling of sadness or moodiness in the first few days after giving birth. The main causes of baby blues are physical factors, emotional factors, or both. This condition is also known as Postpartum depression that last up to two weeks.

BACILLARY ANGIMATOSIS Bacillary angiomatosis is a bacterial infection caused by Gram-negative bacilli Bartonella due to a cat scratch and most often seen in people infected with HIV.

BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guerin) BCG is a strain of bovine tubercle bacilli that has been attenuated by serial culture and used as a vaccine.

BACILLOPHOBIA Bacillo means bacilli and phobia means fear. Hence, bacillophobia is continuous abnormal fear of bacteria bacilli.

BACILLUS Bacillus is a group of cylindrical or Rod-like bacteria widely spread in soil and water. They are Gram-positive, aerobic (under some condition), or anaerobic in nature.

BACILLUS ANTHRACIS Bacillus anthracis is a Gram-positive, spore forming bacillus and a causative agent of a disease anthrax.

BACK PAIN Back pain is acute or chronic pain in lower back and legs.

BACKBONE Backbone is a central bone arising from the base of the skull to the tail bone. The backbone is made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and other tissues and also known as the spine or the vertebral column.

BACTEREMIA Bacteremia is demonstrable presence of bacteria in the blood.

BACTERIA Bacteria (singular bacterium) are prokaryotic microbes that exist either independently or as a parasite in the environment.

BACTERIAL Pertaining to single-celled microorganisms (bacteria).

BACTERIAL ARTIFICIAL CHROMOSOME Bacterial artificial chromosome or in short BAC, are short DNA strands (F-Plasmid) from another species which are artificially cloned in to bacteria in a laboratory.

BACTERIOPHOBIA Bacteriophobia is also known as germ phobia, is an abnormal and persistent fear of germs (bacteria).

BACTERICIDAL Bactericidal is a toxic agent or chemical capable of killing bacteria.

BATERIOSTATIC Bacteriostatic is any chemical or biochemical agent that inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria but not necessarily kill them.

BAKER CYST Baker cyct is a fluid filled, painful lump behind the knee-joint resulting from arthritis that causes restriction and tightness in the movement.

BALANITIS Balanitis is a painful inflammation of the head of a penis (glans) due to overgrowth of bacteria and virus. The major causes of balanitis are improper hygiene such as inadequate cleansing or too much cleansing.

BALANTIDIASIS Balatidiasis is a large-intestinal infection caused by a ciliated protozoan Balantidium coli or Bcoli. Bcoli lives as a parasite in pigs (as a primary reservoir) and causes infection in the human colon.

BALANTIDIUM Balatidium is the largest ciliated protozoan that causes intestinal infection in humans.

BALDNESS Baldness refers to an excessive loss of hairs from the scalp or body with age.

BALL-AND-SOCKET JOINT Ball-and-socket joint also known as spheroidal joint, is a class of synovial joint (such a shoulder joint and a hip joint) in which a ball-like spherical, smooth joint of one bone perfectly join with a cup-like depression of another bone.

BALLOOON ANGIOPLASTY Balloon angioplasty is a medical procedure of opening blocked or narrowed arteries by the use of a catheter having a small balloon on its tip.

BALLOON TAMPONADE Balloon tamponade is a balloon-like temponade inserted into the gut (such as oesophagus and stomach) or uterus and inflated to reduce or terminate haemorrhage.

BAMBINO Bambino is an infant in swaddling ( means wrapping of a child in a thin sheet or a blanket to feel him safe and secure).

BANDING OF CHROMOSOME The staining of chromosomes by chemicals to study their characteristic banding patterns and often use to identify their abnormalities by a unique pattern of light and dark bands of each chromosome.

BARTTER SYNDROME Bartter syndrome is a rare hereditary kidney disorder (specially in a thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle), characterized by the abnormal level of potassium, sodium, chloride and other molecules in the blood, high blood pH, and normal to low blood pressure.

BASAL CELLS Basal cells are tiny, spherical epidermal cells found in the base of the epidermis.

BASAL GANGLIA Basal ganglia is a group of distributed brain structures situated deeply at the base of the forebrain.

BASAL METABOLIC RATE Basal metabolic rate is the rate of energy expenditure needed in per unit time to keep the body of endothermic animals in function.

BASAL TEMPERATURE Basal temperature is the minimum temperature of a person's body at rest or before physical activity.

BASE EXCISION REPAIR Base excision repair is a cellular mechanism of repair of damage DNA double helix causing little distortion in DNA configuration.

BASES Bases (In DNA) are the fundamental unit of the genetic code and the basic building blocks of DNA double helix. They are nitrogen-containing compounds that are present in the form of pairs in genomic DNA. There are five different types of bases in DNA; Adenine (A), Guanine (G), thymine (T), Cytosine (C), and Uracil (U).

BASEMENT MEMBRANE Basement membrane is a thin, fibrous membrane of specialized matrix of tissues that anchor down the epithelium to its loose connective tissues underneath.

BASILAR Situated at or near the base of a structure such as basilar artery found at the base of the skull.

BASOPHILS Basophils are granulated leukocytes in the cytoplasm that contain anticoagulant which prevent blood coagulation too quickly.

BATHER'S ERUPTION Bather's eruption is an itchy skin rash caused by stings from nematocysts of the larval-stage of thimble jelly fish and sea anemones that affect areas of skin covered by a bathing suit.

BATHOPHOBIA Bathophobia is an anxiety disorder of feeling fearfrom any kind of depth.

BATTEN DISEASE Batten disease is a rare, genetic, neurodegenerative disorder that usually begins in childhood. Symptoms of the disease arise between 5 and 10 years of age.

BATTERED CHILD SYNDROME Battered child syndrome is a non-accidental trauma where a child is exposed to physical or sexual abuse.

BATTLE FATIGUE Battle fatigue is a mental sickness caused by fighting in a battle and resulting in an extreme feeling of depression and fatigue.

BAYLISASCARIS Baylisascaris is a roundworm and an intestinal parasite of raccoons that can cause neurological and ocular larva migrans.

BEAU'S LINES Beau's lines are deep grooved lines that run across the finger nails or the toe nails resulting from an illness that severely affect the growth plate of the nail.

BEHAVIOUR THERAPY Behavior therapy is a psychotherapy used to treat people suffering from mental illness such as self-destructive behaviors and engage them in positive socially reinforcing activities.

BECHET'S SYNDROME Behcet's syndrome is a rare disease in which a person feels a painful inflammation of the blood vessels throughout his body and causing sores in the mouth, eyes, skin rashes, and sores in genital organs.

BELCHING Belching is the act of exhaling excess inhaled air from the stomach through the mouth.

BELLADONA Belladonna is a medicinal plant whose leaves and berries are used to make medicines, which are used to treat several diseases such as rigidity, tremor,excessive salivation, motion sickness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, nighttime urination, and Parkinson's disease. Belladonna is also known as deadly nightshade because its roots and leaves contain alkaloids which have toxic effects.

BELLY Belly or abdomen is a part of the body between the chest and the pelvis that host several organs such as the stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, liver, spleen, pancreas, kidney, appendix, gall bladder, and bladder.

BELLY BUTTON Belly button or naval is a flat, hollow, and raised area on the abdomen and it is the first scar of the body after detachment from the umbilical cord after birth.