Glossary of Medical Terms Flashcards
(360 cards)
1
Q
abscess
A
a localized collection of pus in a cavity formed by disintegration of tissues
2
Q
acute
A
a disease with sudden onset of signs and a short course
3
Q
adenocarcinoma
A
a malignant tumour originating in glandular tissue
4
Q
adenoma
A
a benign tumour made up of glandular elements
5
Q
adenosis
A
a disease of a gland, often marked by the abnormal formation or enlargement of glandular tissue
6
Q
agenesis
A
absence or failure of formation of any part or organ
7
Q
agglutination
A
clumping together of cells or particles
8
Q
aggregation
A
a total or coming together of separate parts
9
Q
amenorrhea
A
the absence of menstrual bleeding
10
Q
amyloid
A
the extracellular protein substance deposited in amyloidosis. It is a waxy, amorphous, eosinophilic, hyaline like material that exhibits red-green birefringence under polarized light when stained with Congo red.
11
Q
amyloidosis
A
a group of conditions of diverse aetiologies characterized by the accumulation of insoluble fibrillar proteins (amyloid) in various organs and tissues of the body - eventually organ function is compromised. The associated disease states may be inflammatory, hereditary or neoplastic and the deposition may be local or generalized or systemic
12
Q
analgesia (analgesic)
A
the absence of pain; removing pain
13
Q
anaphylaxis
A
the immediate immunologic (allergic) reaction initiated by the combination of antigen (allergen) with mast cell cytophilic antibody (chiefly IgE). anaphylactic (adj) - as in anaphylactic shock - life threatening respiratory distress, vascular collapse and shock; manifesting extremely great sensitivity to foreign protein or other material.
14
Q
anaplasia
A
loss of differentiation of cells and of their orientation to one another and to their framework and blood vessels
15
Q
anastomosis
A
a connection between two blood vessels or tubes
16
Q
anencephaly
A
markedly defective development of the brain, cerebral hemispheres absent or reduced to small masses, together with absence of the bones of the cranium
17
Q
aneurysm
A
a ballooning out of the wall of a blood vessel or a heart chamber due to a weakening of the wall by disease or injury
18
Q
angina
A
spasmodic, choking or suffocating pain
19
Q
angina pectoris
A
paroxysmal pain in the chest often radiating to the arms; usually due to interference with the supply of oxygen to the heart muscle; often precipitated by excitement or effort
20
Q
angiogenesis
A
the formation of new blood vessels
21
Q
anomaly
A
an irregularity or deviation from normal; an abnormal structure
22
Q
antibody
A
an immunoglobulin molecule that reacts with a specific antigen that induced its synthesis. Synthesized by B lymphocytes that have been activated by the binding of a antigen to a cell surface receptor
23
Q
antigen
A
any substance, almost always a protein, not normally present in the body which when introduced to the body stimulates a specific immune response and the production of antibodies
24
Q
aphasia
A
partial or complete loss of the ability to speak, write or understand spoken or written language, resulting from damage to the brain by injury or disease
25
apnea
lack of breathing
26
apocrine
a form of secretion in which a portion of the cytoplasm leaves the cell together with the product of secretion
27
apoptosis
programmed cell death (carefully orchestrated by genes and gene products that turn the pathway to cell death on or off); fragmentation of the cell into membrane-bound particles that are eliminated by phagocytosis; from the Greek for "falling off"
28
arrhythmia(s)
irregular heart beat
29
ascites
accumulation of serous fluid in the abdominal cavity
30
asymptomatic
producing or showing no symptoms
31
ataxia
failure of muscle coordination; unable to coordinate muscle movement resulting in jerkiness and incoordination
32
ATP
adenosine triphosphate. A chemical very important in energy metabolism in the cell
33
atrophy
a wasting away; a decrease in the size and function of a cell, tissue, organ or part
34
atypical
unusual, not characteristic
35
auscultation
listening for sounds within the body; it may be performed with the unaided ear or with a stethoscope.
36
bacteremia
the presence of bacteria in the blood
37
benign
not malignant; not recurrent; favourable for recovery
38
bifurcation
the split of a tube or vessel into two branches or channels
39
birefringent
birefringence; the quality of transmitting light unequally in different directions
40
biopsy
removal and examination, usually microscopic, of tissue from the living body, performed to establish a precise diagnosis
41
bradycardia
abnormally slow heart action
42
bronchiectasis
chronic dilatation of the bronchi. It may affect the tube uniformly or occur in irregular pockets
43
bronchus
one of the large passages conveying air to and within the lungs
44
bronchoscope
n instrument used for inspecting the interior of the windpipe and bronchial tree to carry out diagnostic (taking specimens for culture and biopsy) or therapeutic (removing a foreign object) manoeuvres
45
bronchoscopy
examination of the bronchi through a bronchoscope
46
BUN - blood urea nitrogen
the urea concentration of serum or plasma, specified in terms of nitrogen content; an important indicator of renal function. (urea is the chief nitrogenous end-product of protein metabolism, formed in the liver from amino acids and from ammonia compounds)
47
cachexia
extreme loss of weight and body wasting associated with serious illness
48
calculus
a stone developing in the body, e.g. kidney or bile
49
carbuncle
deep-seated pus-producing infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues
50
carcinogen
a substance that causes cancer
51
cardi(o)
of the heart
52
cardiomegaly
hypertrophy (enlargement) of the heart
53
caries
destruction of bone or teeth
54
caseous
"cheesy" or "cheese-like"
55
caseous necrosis
cell death characteristic of certain inflammations (e.g. tuberculosis) where the affected tissue shows the crumbly consistency and dull, opaque quality of cheese. Based on casein - the principal protein of milk, the basis of curds and cheese
56
catarrh
inflammation of a mucous membrane with increased flow of mucous. catarrhal (adj.)
57
caudal
situated toward or pertaining to the tail; toward the inferior or posterior end of the body
58
cellulitis
inflammation of the soft or connective tissue in which a thin, watery exudate spreads through the tissue spaces
59
cephalic
pertaining to the head , or to the head end of the body
60
chemotaxis
movement of cells or organisms in response to chemical stimulation. chemotactic (adj.).
61
cholangitis
inflammation of a bile duct or the entire biliary tree
62
cholecyst
the gallbladder
63
cholelithiasis
presence of concretions ("gall stones") in the gallbladder or bile ducts
64
chronic
a condition with slow onset, mild but continuous manifestations and long-lasting, often progressive effects
65
ciliated
cilia are small hair-like structures which help to transport secretions along the surface of a cell
66
CIN
cervical intraepithelial neoplasia; one of the terminologies in use to describe precancerous or dysplastic changes in the cervical epithelial cells
67
CIS
carcinoma in situ; a neoplasm where the tumor cells are still confined to the epithelium of origin without invasion of the basement membrane (likelihood of subsequent invasive growth is presumed to be high).
68
clubbing
proliferation of soft tissue about the ends (terminal phalanges) of fingers and toes
69
CMV
cytomegalovirus.
70
coagulate
to cause to clot or become clotted; to convert a fluid or substance in solution into a solid or a gel. coagulative (adj.)
71
coagulative necrosis
a type of necrosis in which affected cells or tissue are converted into a dry, dull, homogeneous eosinophilic mass without nuclei as a result of the coagulation of protein
72
collateral (blood supply)
new vessels which develop following chronic interruption of blood supply
73
colposcope
a speculum for examining the vagina and cervix with a magnifying lens. (colposcopy is the procedure).
74
congestion
abnormal accumulation of blood or fluid in a part
75
columnar (cells)
refers to a shape of cells which often line ducts or glands within the body
76
coma
a state of profound unconsciousness from which one cannot be roused
77
congenital
present at birth; cause may be genetic or non-genetic (infectious, chemical, physical)
78
Congo red
specific stain for detection of amyloid fibrils. Proteins with a beta-pleated sheet structure will display red-green birefringence under polarized light.
79
contralateral
the opposite side of the body
80
contusion
a bruise; an injury of a part without a break in the skin, characterized by swelling, discoloration, and pain.
81
cor pulmonale
right-sided heart failure which occurs as a result of long-standing lung disease
82
creatine
an amino acid; found in muscle. Phosphorylated creatine is an important storage form of high-energy phosphate = creatine phosphate or phosphocreatine. Energy source for muscle contraction.
83
creatine kinase
an enzyme that catalyses the phosphorylation of creatine by ATP to form phosphocreatine.
84
cribriform
perforated, sieve-like pattern
85
cruciate
shaped like a cross.
86
cryptorchid
a person with undescended testes
87
cryptorchism (cryptorchidism)
failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum
88
CT (computerized tomograph)
sophisticated radiologic technique yielding a detailed image of internal body structures
89
CAT
computerized axial tomography.
90
cyanosis
a bluish discoloration of skin, lips, nail beds or mucous membranes due to excessive concentrations of reduced haemoglobin in blood and hence deficient oxygenation of blood. cyanotic (adj.).
91
cyst
any closed epithelium-lined cavity or sac, normal or abnormal, usually containing liquid or semisolid material; a bladder.
92
cystectomy
removal of a cyst; removal or resection of the bladder
93
cytology
the study of cells, their origin, structure, function and pathology; the microscopic examination of cells as a means of detecting malignancy and microbiologic changes. Cells can be obtained by aspiration, washing, smear or scraping.
94
cytotoxin - (cytotoxic = adj.),
a toxin or antibody having a specific toxic action upon the cells of special organs.
95
DES
diethylstilboestrol; a synthetic nonsteroidal oestrogen; females exposed to it in utero are subject to increased risk of vaginal and cervical carcinoma
96
degenerative
progressive and often irreversible deterioration.
97
dialysis
a procedure by which a machine is used to replace kidney functions in patients with diseased kidneys.
98
diapedesis
the passage of leukocytes (white blood cells) through capillary walls to site of inflammation.
99
diaphoresis
perspiration, especially profuse perspiration.
100
differentiation
the distinguishing of one thing from another; the act or process of acquiring completely individual characters; increase in morphological or chemical heterogeneity.
101
dilation
the act of dilating or stretching
102
dilatation
the condition of being stretched beyond normal dimensions, usually in a tubular structure or an opening.
103
diuresis
excessive amount of urine
104
diuretic
produces an increase in amount of urine.
105
diverticulum (diverticula = pl)
a pouch or sac occurring normally or created by the bulging of a membrane through a defect in the muscular coat of a tubular organ, such as the intestine
106
diverticulosis
the presence of diverticula.
107
diverticulitis
an inflammation of a diverticulum, especially those in the wall of the colon which fill with faecal matter and become inflamed. May cause bleeding or obstruction or may burst.
108
duct
a passage with well-defined walls, especially a tubular structure for the passage of excretions or secretions.
109
dysmenorrhea
painful menstruation.
110
dysphagia
painful or difficulty swallowing
111
dysplasia
abnormality of development; in pathology, alteration in size, shape, and organization of adult cells.
112
dyspnea
laboured or difficult breathing.
113
dysrhythmia
defective heart rhythm
114
ecchymosis
a small haemorrhagic spot in the skin or mucous membrane, larger than apetechia, forming a nonelevated, rounded, or irregular blue or purplish patch. ecchymoses, pl.
115
ectasia
dilatation, expansion or distention. e.g. duct ectasia = dilatation of duct plugged with secretion, accompanied by periductal and interstitial inflammatory infiltrate.
116
ectopic
out of place; an object or organ situated in an unusual place away from its normal position.
117
oedema
the accumulation of excess fluid in the intercellular or interstitial tissue spaces or body cavities.
118
efferent
moving away from the centre, e.g. efferent nerve fibres carry motor impulses to muscles.
119
effusion(s)
the escape of a fluid into a part; the effused material
120
electrolyte
a compound when dissolved in water separates into charged particles. Electrolytes play an essential role in the workings of cells maintaining fluid balance and acid-base balance
121
embolus (emboli, pl.)
a detached intravascular solid, liquid or gaseous mass that is carried by the blood to a site distant from its point of origin, thus obstructing the flow of blood. Most (99%) arise from thrombi (thromboembolus).
122
embolism
the sudden obstruction or blocking of a vessel by an embolus
123
emesis
the act of vomiting.
124
empyema
accumulation of pus in a body cavity.
125
encephalitis
inflammation of the brain.
126
endocarditis
inflammation of the endocardium
127
endocardium
the innermost tunic of the heart (includes endothelial and subendothelial connective tissue)
128
endogenous
originating from within the body.
129
endometriosis
presence of benign glands and uterine stroma (connective tissue elements) outside of the uterus
130
endoscope
an instrument to visually examine the interior of a hollow organ such as the colon, intestine or bladder; endoscopy is the procedure
131
enzyme
a substance, usually a protein, that initiates and accelerates a chemical reaction.
132
eosin
any of a class of rose-coloured stains or dyes; bromine derivatives of fluorescein; used in histology as a stain
133
epicanthus (epicanthal, adj.)
a vertical fold on either side of the nose; a normal characteristic in persons of certain races, but absent in others.
134
epidemiology
the study of the relationships of various factors determining the frequency and distribution of diseases in the human community; also the field of medicine dealing with the determination of specific causes of localized outbreaks of infection, poisoning or other disease of recognized aetiology.
135
epigastrium
the upper and middle region of the abdomen, located within the sternal angle. epigastric is the adjective.
136
erythema
diffuse or patchy redness of skin, blanching on pressure, due to congestion of cutaneous capillaries
137
erythrocyte(s)
red blood cell(s).
138
aetiology - (etiologic, etiological = adj.)
the science dealing with the causes of disease.
139
excise
to cut out
140
excision
the act of cutting out.
141
exogenous
originating from outside of the body.
142
exudate
a fluid with a high concentration of protein and cellular debris which has escaped from blood vessels and has been deposited in tissues, or on tissue surfaces, usually as a result of inflammation.
143
facies
the face; or the expression or appearance of the face.
144
fibrillation
a small, local, involuntary muscular contraction, due to spontaneous activation of single muscle cells or muscle fibres whose nerve supply has been damaged or cut off
145
fibrin
an insoluble protein essential to the clotting of blood, derived from fibrinogen; a component of thrombi, vegetations, and acute inflammatory exudates.
146
fibrinogen
a coagulation factor.
147
fibrinoid
resembling fibrin; an eosinophilic, homogeneous, proteinaceous material that is frequently formed on the walls of blood vessels and connective tissue in some patients (e.g. with disseminated lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, etc.)
148
fibrinoid necrosis
results in acidophilic (eosinophilic) deposits with staining reactions that resemble fibrin in connective tissue, blood vessel walls and other sites.
149
fibrosis
formation of fibrous tissue usually in repair or replacement of cellular elements. fibrotic (adj).
150
fistula (fistulas, fistulae, pl.)
an abnormal passage or communication from one organ to another or from an internal organ to the body surface; may be caused by disease or injury or created surgically.
151
friable
easily crumbled.
152
gangrene
necrosis due to obstruction, loss or diminution of blood supply.
153
glomerulonephritis
nephritis with inflammation of the capillary loops in the renal glomeruli.
154
granuloma
a term applied to any small nodular aggregation of mononuclear inflammatory cells or such a collection of modified macrophages resembling epithelial cells, giant cells and other macrophages (usually surrounded by a rim of lymphocytes)
155
gyrus - (gyri = pl.)
one of the convolutions on the surface of the brain caused by infolding of the cortex.
156
hamartoma
a benign tumour-like nodule composed of an overgrowth of mature cells and tissues normally present in the affected part, but with disorganization and often with one element predominating.
157
hematemesis
the vomiting of blood.
158
haematochezia
presence of red blood in the stool
159
hematoma
a localized mass of blood, usually clotted, trapped in an organ, space, or tissue, resulting from a break in the wall of a blood vessel
160
haematoxylin
an acid-colouring matter from the heartwood; used as a histological stain - stains nuclei
161
H & E - haematoxylin & eosin
a mixture of haematoxylin in distilled water and an aqueous eosin solution; a stain used routinely for examination of tissues.
162
haematuria
the presence of blood in the urine.
163
hemianopia
loss of vision or blindness in half the visual field of one or both eyes.
164
hemiparesis
weakness on one side of the body.
165
hemiplegia
paralysis of one side of the body.
166
haemoglobin
the oxygen carrying pigment of the red blood cells (erythrocytes).
167
haemolysis
the liberation of haemoglobin, consisting of separation of the haemoglobin from the red cells and its appearance in plasma.
168
haemoptysis
the spitting of blood or blood-stained sputum
169
haemorrhage
to bleed; an escape of blood from the blood vessels. haemorrhagic (adj.)
170
hemosiderin
a product of the decomposition of haemoglobin, found mainly intercellularly in areas of old haemorrhage.
171
haemostasis
the arrest of bleeding by the physiological properties of vasoconstriction and coagulation or by surgical means; interruption of blood flow through any vessel or to any anatomical area.
172
hepatomegaly
enlargement of the liver
173
hernia
the protrusion of a portion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening
174
hilum or hilus (hila = pl.)
the part of an organ where blood vessels and nerves enter and leave.
175
HIV
human immunodeficiency virus; the biological agent causing AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome)
176
HPV
human papilloma virus; subtypes have been associated with the development of cervical cancer.
177
hydrocephalus
a congenital or acquired condition marked by dilatation of the cerebral ventricles, usually occurring secondarily to obstruction of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pathways, and accompanied by an accumulation of CSF within the skull
178
hydrocephalus ex vacuo
compensatory replacement by cerebrospinal fluid of the volume of tissue lost in atrophy of the brain.
179
hydrosalpinx
the accumulation of serous fluid in the fallopian tube.
180
hyperemia
an excess of blood in a part.
181
hyperplasia
a controlled increase in the number of normal cells in normal arrangement in an organ or tissue, causing a corresponding increase in tissue mass.
182
hypersensitivity
a state of altered reactivity in which the body reacts with an exaggerated immune response to a foreign agent.
183
hypertension
high arterial blood pressure. Various criteria for its threshold have been suggested, ranging from 140 mm Hg systolic and 90 mm Hg diastolic to as high as 200 mm Hg systolic and 110 mm Hg diastolic
184
hypertrophy
an increase in individual cell size, which in turn leads to an increase in tissue mass/organ size.
185
hypoechoic
in ultrasonography, giving off few echoes or weaker echoes than normal tissue or than in surrounding regions.
186
hypoplasia
incomplete development or underdevelopment of a tissue, usually due to a decrease in number of cells.
187
hypotension
low blood pressure
188
hypovolemia
decreased blood volume
189
hypoxia
reduced supply of oxygen to tissues (below physiologic levels) despite normal blood perfusion.
190
hysterectomy
surgical removal of the uterus.
191
iatrogenic
resulting from the activity of physicians; usually used for any adverse condition in a patient resulting from treatment by a physician or surgeon.
192
idiopathic
occurring without known cause.
193
ileum
the distal portion of the small intestine, extending from the jejunum to the cecum.
194
ileus
an intestinal obstruction
195
indurated
hardened, firm.
196
infarct
a localized area of ischemic necrosis produced by blockage of the arterial supply or venous drainage of the part.
197
infarction
the formation of an infarct
198
acute myocardial infarction (AMI)
circulation to a region of the heart is obstructed and necrosis of tissue is occurring.
199
in situ
means "in its original place"; may be used descriptively of a cancer (e.g. carcinoma in situ) or to refer to experiments conducted in place (e.g. in situ hybridization).
200
inspissation
drying-out; in histologic sections inspissated secretions appear as dense, amorphous, deeply staining material within the lumen of ducts or glands
201
intussusception
when a segment of one part of the intestine becomes telescoped into an immediately adjacent part.
202
ipsilateral
same side of the body.
203
ischemia - (ischemic = adj.)
deficiency of blood in a part, usually due to functional constriction or actual obstruction or blockage of a blood vessel.
204
jaundice
yellowness of the skin, sclera, mucous membranes and excretions due to increased bilirubin in the blood and deposition of bile pigments.
205
karyolysis
the dissolution of the nucleus - the nucleus swells and gradually loses its chromatin.
206
karyorrhexis
rupture of the cell nucleus in which the chromatin disintegrates into formless granules that are extruded from the cell.
207
karyotype (karyotyping)
the chromosomal constitution of the cell nucleus; the photographic representation of the chromosomes for analysis.
208
keratoconjunctivitis
inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva.
209
kyphosis
abnormally increased convexity in the curvature of the thoracic spine as viewed from the side.
210
lacuna (lacunae = pl)
a small space or depression; e.g. in bone, the lacunae are cavities in the bone tissue in which bone-forming cells are found.
211
leptomeninges
the two delicate membranes of the meninges, the arachnoid and pia mater.
212
leukocyte(s)
white blood cell(s).
213
leukocytosis
a transient increase in the number of white blood cells (leukocytes); due to various causes.
214
leukoplakia
a white patch of oral mucous membrane which cannot be wiped off.
215
liquefaction
conversion into a liquid form.
216
liquefactive necrosis
a type of necrosis characterized by dull, opaque, partly or completely fluid remains of tissue, observed in abscesses and frequently in infarcts of brain.
217
lumen
opening, e.g. of a blood vessel through which blood flows, or in a gland or organ.
218
Lyme disease
a multisystem disease which can affect the skin, joints and nervous system. Caused by a bacteria carried by certain kinds of ticks (most commonly found in areas of north-eastern U.S.).
219
lymphadenopathy
disease of the lymph nodes.
220
malignant
of tumours, having the properties of anaplasia, invasiveness and metastasis.
221
mastectomy
removal of the breast.
222
melena
black blood in the stool; the source of blood is typically from the stomach or duodenum and is thus acted upon by digestive enzymes that break down the blood and create its black appearance.
223
menarche
the first menstrual period, usually occurring during puberty.
224
meninges
plural of meninx; any membrane, but specifically the three membranous coverings of the brain and spinal cord (dura mater, arachnoid and pia mater).
225
meningitis
inflammation of the meninges.
226
menorrhagia
hypermenorrhoea or profuse menstruation
227
menorrhea
the normal discharge of the menses.
228
menses
the monthly flow of blood from the genital tract of a woman.
229
metaplasia
the change in the type of adult cells in a tissue to a form abnormal for that tissue
230
metastasis - (metastases = pl.; metastatic = adj)
transfer of disease from one organ or part of the body to another not directly connected with it, due either to transfer of pathogenic organisms or to transfer of cells; all malignant tumours are capable of metastasizing. A growth of pathogenic microorganisms or of abnormal cells distant from the site primarily involved by the morbid process.
231
metrorrhagia
continuous or non-cyclical uterine bleeding.
232
morbidity
the condition of being diseased or sick; the 'sick' rate, i.e. the ratio of sick to well persons in a community.
233
mortality
the quality of being mortal or alive; the 'death' rate, i.e. the number of people dying in a given population.
234
myocyte(s)
(a) muscle cell(s).
235
myoepithelium
flattened to stellate cells, believed to be contractile, which lie in many forms of externally secreting glands between the secreting cells and the basement membrane on which they lie.
236
myomectomy
surgical removal of a myoma (a benign tumour of muscle elements).
237
myxoma (myxomatous = adj.)
a benign neoplasm derived from connective tissue; occurs in bone, skin and muscle; in cardiac muscle may encroach on the cavity of an atrium.
238
nares
the nostrils; the external openings of the nasal cavity.
239
necrosis
the morphological changes indicative of cell death caused by progressive enzymatic degradation.
240
neoplasia
the formation of a neoplasm.
241
neoplasm
tumour; any new or abnormal growth, specifically one in which cell multiplication is uncontrolled. Neoplasms may be benign or malignant
242
neutropenia
diminished number of neutrophils in the blood.
243
neutrophil
a granular leukocyte having a nucleus with 3 to 5 lobes connected by threads of chromatin and cytoplasm containing very fine granules; any cell, structure or element readily stainable with neutral dyes.
244
nitroglycerin
when compounded in tablets used in the treatment and prevention of angina pectoris. Used sublingually (under the tongue). A vasodilator.
245
nocturia
excessive urination at night
246
nosocomial
pertaining to or originating in a hospital.
247
obtund
to dull or blunt (especially to blunt sensation or dull pain), or to reduce alertness
248
obtundation
clouding of consciousness.
249
occlusion
losing or shutting off, e.g. shutting off a blood vessel by a blockage of the opening.
250
occult
not visible to the naked eye or hidden from view
251
oligohydramnios
too little amniotic fluid.
252
oliguria
diminished urine output in relation to fluid intake
253
oncogene(s)
giving rise to tumours or causing tumour formation; genes that contribute to the formation of tumours
254
organelles
minute, intracellular structures serving a specific function in the life processes of the cell
255
orthotopic
occurring at the normal place
256
osteoarthritis
degenerative disease of joint cartilage
257
osteoporosis
a common disease of the formation of bone leading to fragile bones and fractures.
258
palsy
paralysis
259
cerebral palsy
persisting motor disorders in young children resulting from brain damage caused by birth trauma or intrauterine pathology.
260
Pap (Papanicolaou) smear
a specimen for microscopic examination of cells for detection of various conditions of the female genital tract (e.g. malignant and premalignant conditions), prepared by spreading the material across a slide.
261
paraparesis
weakness affecting the lower extremities.
262
paraplegia
paralysis of the lower limbs.
263
parenchyma (parenchymal = adj.)
the essential (working) tissue of an organ as distinguished from the supporting connective tissue, vessels, nerves, etc.
264
paresis
slight or partial paralysis.
265
paraesthesia
any abnormal sensation, such as burning, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling, often in the absence of external stimuli.
266
paroxysmal
recurring "sudden attacks" of symptoms.
267
pathology
the branch of medicine that deals with the essential nature of disease and the changes in body tissues and organs which cause or are caused by disease; the structural and functional manifestations of disease.
268
pathogen
a disease-causing microorganism or agent.
269
pathogenesis
the development of disease; specifically the cellular events and reactions and mechanisms occurring in the development of disease.
270
pathognomonic
characteristic or indicative of a disease; denoting symptoms or findings specific for a given disease and not found in any other condition.
271
peptide
a protein with a small number of amino acids.
272
perfusion
transport of blood through blood vessels from heart to internal organs, tissues, etc.
273
pericarditis
inflammation of the pericardium - the sac enclosing the heart and the roots of the great vessels.
274
perikaryon (perikarya = pl)
the cell body; applied particularly to neurons.
275
periorbita
periosteum of the bones of the orbit or eye socket. periorbital, adj.
276
periosteum
a specialized connective tissue covering all bones and having bone-forming potential.
277
peristalsis
a wave of contractions and relaxations of the digestive tract propelling its contents towards the anus.
278
peritoneum
the membrane lining the walls of the abdominal and pelvic cavities and surrounding the contained organs; the two layers create a potential space - the peritoneal cavity.
279
peritonitis
inflammation of the peritoneum due to chemical or bacterial irritation.
280
petechia(e)
a minute red spot(s) due to escape of a small amount of blood. petechial, adj.
281
PID
pelvic inflammatory disease.
282
pleura (pleural = adj.)
the serous membrane covering the lungs and lining the walls of the thoracic cavity; the two layers thus enclose a potential space - the pleural cavity.
283
pleural effusion
increased amounts of fluid within the pleural cavity, usually due to inflammation.
284
pleuritis
inflammation of pleura.
285
PMN
polymorphonuclear leukocyte; neutrophil.
286
polyarteritis
inflammation involving several arteries at the same time.
287
polymorphonuclear
having a nucleus so deeply lobed or so divided as to appear multiple.
288
polyp
a general term for any mass of tissue that projects outwards from a normally smooth surface.
289
primipara
a woman who has born her first child.
290
prognosis
a forecast of the course and probable outcome of a disorder.
291
proteinuria
an excess of serum proteins in the urine.
292
prophylaxis
to prevent disease; preventive treatment.
293
proteolysis
the breaking up of proteins.
294
pruritis
intense itching.
295
pseudohermaphroditism
a condition in which a person has the internal sexual organs (testes or ovaries) of one sex but, due to endocrine abnormalities, their external appearance is that of the opposite sex.
296
hermaphroditism
where both types of internal sexual organs are present
297
psychogenic
having an emotional or psychologic origin.
298
puerperal
relating to childbirth; the interval including the time of labour and recent post-delivery period.
299
purpura
a small haemorrhage in the skin, mucous membrane or serosal surface; a group of disorders characterized by the presence of purpuric lesions, ecchymoses, and a tendency to bruise easily. purpuric, adj.
300
pus
a protein rich liquid inflammation product made up of cells (white blood cells or leukocytes), a thin fluid, and cellular debris.
301
pyknosis
a thickening, especially degeneration of a cell in which the nucleus shrinks in size and the chromatin condenses to a solid, structureless mass.
302
pyogenic
producing pus.
303
pyothorax
an accumulation of pus in the thorax
304
pyrexia
a fever or febrile condition.
305
pyrogen
a fever-producing substance
306
quadriplegia
being paralysed in all four limbs; unable to use arms and legs.
307
regurgitation
flow in the opposite direction than normal, e.g. throwing up of undigested food; backflow of blood through a defective heart valve.
308
relapse
a return to a previous poor or ill condition.
309
reperfusion
the flooding of tissue with blood after it has suffered ischemia or a loss of blood supply.
310
rheumatoid arthritis
a common chronic inflammatory disease primarily causing pain in the joints.
311
rhinitis
inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane.
312
sanguineous
bloody; relating to blood
313
sclerosis
abnormal hardening of tissue
314
scurvy
a disease caused by insufficient intake of vitamin C
315
sedimentation rate (ESR/ZSR)
non-specific test that measures settling of red blood cells per unit time in a column of fresh blood - a rough measure of increased amounts of fibrinogen and globulin which may occur in certain pathologic or physiologic states (e.g. heart attacks, cancer, pregnancy).
316
ESR
erythrocyte sedimentation rate
317
seizure
an attack; the sudden onset or recurrence of a disease or of certain symptoms, e.g. an epileptic attack, convulsion.
318
sepsis
the presence of bacteria (pathogenic organisms) or their toxins in the blood or tissues.
319
sequela(e)
the consequence(s) following a disease.
320
shock
a sudden disturbance of mental equilibrium; a profound hemodynamic and metabolic disturbance characterized by failure of the circulatory system to maintain adequate perfusion of vital organs.
321
sign
an objective indication or evidence of disease discovered on examination of a patient
322
SIL
squamous intraepithelial lesion; one of the terminologies in use to describe precancerous or dysplastic changes in the cervical epithelial cells.
323
spasm
a sudden, violent, involuntary muscle contraction; a sudden tightening of a passage or canal
324
spastic
characterized by spasms or other uncontrolled contractions of the skeletal muscles; muscles are stiff and the movements awkward.
325
spasticity
the condition characterized by spasms
326
splenomegaly
enlargement of the spleen
327
squamous (cells)
cell type often seen in areas exposed to significant irritation or trauma - e.g. skin.
328
staging
the determination of distinct phases or periods in the course of a disease, the life history of an organism, or any biological process; the classification of neoplasms according to the extent of the tumour (e.g. TMN staging - staging of tumours according to three basic components: primary tumour (T), regional nodes (N), and metastasis (M) - from 0 (undetectable) to 4).
329
steatosis
fatty degeneration.
330
stenosis
narrowing or contraction of a duct or canal. stenoses, pl.
331
steroid
a class of hormone with a particular chemical structure consisting of four interlocking carbon rings.
332
stricture
an abnormal narrowing of a duct or passage.
333
stridor
a harsh, high-pitched respiratory sound.
334
stroma
the connective tissue framework of an organ or other structure, as distinguished from the tissues performing the special function of the organ.
335
subcutaneous
beneath the skin.
336
sulcus - (sulci = pl.)
a groove, trench or furrow; in neuroanatomy, for instance, a depression or groove on the brain surface separating the gyri.
337
suppuration (suppurative = adj.)
formation or discharge of pus.
338
symptom
subjective evidence of disease as perceived and reported by a patient.
339
syncope
fainting; temporary loss of consciousness due to reduced oxygen delivery to the brain.
340
synovia
the transparent, viscid fluid secreted by the synovial membrane and found in joint cavities, bursae, and tendon sheaths.
341
synovitis
inflammation of a synovial membrane, usually painful, particularly on motion, and characterized by fluctuating swelling (due to effusion in a synovial sac).
342
systole
the contraction of the heart during which blood is pumped into the heart
343
systolic
the blood pressure in the arteries when the heart pumps blood through the body.
344
tachycardia
abnormally fast heart beat.
345
teratogen
a substance or condition that impairs normal development of the embryo or foetus in utero causing a congenital abnormality.
346
thrombocytopenia
an abnormally small number or decrease of circulating platelets in the blood.
347
thrombus - (pl. thrombi)
a solid mass formed from the constituents of blood within the blood vessels or the heart. Thrombi that form within the rapidly moving arterial circulation are composed largely of fibrin and platelets with only a few trapped red and white cells.
348
thrombosis
the inappropriate or pathological formation of a solid mass (from the constituents of blood) within a blood vessel or organ.
349
toxin
a poison produced by a living organism.
350
transient
of short duration, momentary.
351
troponin
a protein of muscle that together with tropomyosin forms a regulatory protein complex controlling the interaction of actin and myosin and that when combined with calcium ions permits muscular contraction; when cardiac muscle cells are damaged, troponin is released into the blood stream and provides a useful indicator of cardiac cell death and evidence of myocardial infarction.
352
ulcer
a local defect or excavation of the surface of an organ or tissue produced by the sloughing of necrotic inflammatory tissue.
353
urea
the chief nitrogenous end-product of protein metabolism, formed in the liver from amino acids and from ammonia compounds; found in urine, blood, and lymph.
354
uraemia
an excess of the nitrogen-containing end products of protein and amino acid metabolism in the blood; the entire constellation of signs and symptoms of chronic renal failure.
355
vasculitis
inflammation of a vessel
356
vasodilator
an agent that causes dilatation of the blood vessels.
357
ventricular fibrillation
rapid, irregular twitching of heart muscle which prevents coordinated contraction of heart.
358
vertigo
a sensation of spinning or whirling motion.
359
virulence
the degree of pathogenicity of a microorganism as indicated by the severity of disease produced and the ability to invade the tissues of the host. virulent (adj.)
360
volvulus
a twisting of a loop of intestine causing an obstruction, may impair blood supply resulting in infarction.
