Chapter 10 Flashcards
Brain
Cerebr/o
Encephal/o
Coordinates all body activities by receiving and transmitting messages throughout the body
Cerebr/o
Brain or cerebrum
Encephal/o
Brain
Spinal cord
Myel/o
Transmits nerve impulses between the brain, arms and legs, and lower part of the body
Myel/o
Spinal cord or bone marrow
Nerves
Neur/I
Neur/o
Receive and transmits messages to and from all parts of the body
Neur/i
Nerves or nerve tissue
Neur/o
Nerves or nerve tissue
Sensory organs and receptors
Receive external stimulation and transmit these stimuli to the sensory neurons
Caus/o
Burning, burn
Concuss/o
Shaken together or violently agitated
Contus/o
Bruise
-esthesia
Sensation or feeling
Esthet/o
Feeling, nervous sensation, or sense of perception
-graphy
Process of producing a picture or record
Mening/o
Meninges or membranes
Phobia
Abnormal fear
Psych/o
Mind
Radicul/o
Root or nerve root
-tropic
Having an affinity for
Acrophobia
An excessive fear of heights. Acr/o means top, -phobia means abnormal fear
Alzheimer’s disease
AD. A group of disorders involving the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. It is the leading cause of dementia and is marked by progressive deterioration that affects memory and reasoning capabilities. Patients affected with this condition become progressively weaker until they are completely paralyzed and die
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
A rapidly progressive neurological disease that attacks the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles, resulting in complete paralysis and death, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease
Anesthetic
Medication used to induce anesthesia . The anesthetic may be topical, local, regional, or general. An- means without, esthet means feeling, -ic means pertaining to
Anesthetist
A medical professional who specializes in administering anesthesia but is not a physician. An- means without, esthet means feeling, -ist means specialist
Anorexia nervosa
A false perception of body appearance which leads to an intense fear of gaining weight and inability to maintain a healthy body weight
Anxiety disorders
Mental conditions characterized by excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations or fear that is out of proportion to the real danger in a situation
Autism
A subgroup of autistic spectrum disorders. Children with autism have significant developmental delays, including speech and language, with most having very minimal verbal skills and lacking normal social relationships
Bell’s palsy
Temporary paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve that causes paralysis only on the affected side of the face. In addition, paralysis symptoms can include the inability to close the eyes, pain, tearing, drooling, hypersensitivity to sound in the affected ear, and impairment of taste
Carotid ultrasonography
An ultrasound study of the carotid artery to detect plaque buildup in the artery to predict or diagnose an ischemic stroke. Ultra- means beyond, son/o means sound, -graphy means the process of producing a picture or record
Causalgia
Persistent, severe burning pain that usually follows an injury to a sensory nerve. Caus means burning, -algia means pain
Cerebral contusion
Bruising of brain tissue as a result of a head injury that causes the brain to bounce against the rigid bone of the skull. Contus means bruise, -ion means condition
Cerebral palsy
CP. A condition characterized by poor muscle control, spasticity, speech defects, and other neurologic deficiencies due to damage that affects the cerebrum. Occurs most frequently in premature or low-birth-wwight infants. Usually caused by an injury that occurs during pregnancy, birth, or soon after birth
Cerebrovascular accident
Damage to the brain that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is disrupted, also known as a stroke
Cervical radiculopathy
Nerve pain caused by pressure on the spinal nerve roots in the neck region. Radicul/o means nerve root, -pathy means disease
Claustrophobia
An abnormal fear of being in small or enclosed space. Claustr/o means barrier, -phobia means abnormal fear
Cognition
The mental activities associated with thinking, learning, and memory
Coma
A deep state of unconsciousness marked by the absence of spontaneous eye movement, no response to painful stimuli, and the lack of speech
Concussion
A violent shaking up or jarring of the brain that may result in a temporary loss of awareness and function. Concuss means shaken together, -ion means condition or state of
Cranial hematoma
A collection of blood trapped in the tissues of the brain. Hemat means blood, -oma means tumor. May be caused by a major or minor head injury.
Delirium
An acute condition of confusion, disorientation, disordered thinking and memory, agitation, and hallucinations. This condition is usually caused by a treatable physical condition, such as a high fever
Delirium tremens
A disorder involving sudden and severe mental changes or seizures caused by abruptly stopping the use of alcohol
Delusion
A false personal belief that is maintained despite obvious proof or evidence to the contrary. The belief is not ordinarily accepted by other members of the individual’s culture or religious faith
Dementia
A slowly progressive decline in mental abilities, including memory, thinking, and judgement, that is often accompanied by personality changes
Dura mater
The thick, tough, outermost membrane of the meninges.. the inner surface of the cranium (skull) is lined with dura mater
Dyslexia
A learning disability characterized by substandard reading achievement due to the inability of the brain to process symbols, also known as a developmental reading disorder
Echoencephalography
The use of ultrasound imaging to create a detailed visual image of the brain for diagnostic purposes ech/o means sound, encephal/o means brain, -graphy means the process of producing a picture or record
Electroencephalography
The process of recording the electrical activity of the brain through the use of electrodes attached to the scalp. Electr/o means electricity, encephal/o means brain, -graphy means the process of producing a picture or record
Encephalitis
Inflammation of the brain, can be caused by a viral infection such as rabies. Encephal means brain, -itis means inflammation
Epidural anesthesia
Regional anesthesia produced by injecting a local anesthetic into the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral region of the spine. When administered during childbirth, it numbs the nerves from the uterus and birth passage without stopping labor
Epilepsy
A chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent episodes of seizures of varying severities. Also known as seizure disorder. Can usually be controlled by medication
Factitious disorder
A condition in which a person acts as if he or she has a physical or mental illness when he or she is not really sick. Visible symptoms are self-inflicted and seem motivated by a desire for attention and sympathy rather than for external benefits for malingering. Can be referred to as Munchausen syndrome
Guillain-Barre syndrome
Inflammation of the myelin sheath of peripheral nerves, characterized by rapidly worsening muscle weakness that may lead to temporary paralysis, also known as infectious polyneuritis. This rare condition is an autoimmune reaction that can occur after certain viral infections or an immunization
Hallucination
A sensory perception (sight, touch, sound, smell, or taste) experienced in the absence of an external stimulatuon
Hemorrhagic stroke
Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures, also known as a bleed. A bleed also occurs when an aneurysm within the brain ruptures. This type of stroke is less common than ischemic strokes and is often fatal. This stroke affects the area of the brain damaged by the leaking blood
Hydrocephalus
A condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the ventricles of the brain. Hydr/o means water, cephal means head, -us means singular noun ending. This condition can occur at birth or develop later in life from obstructions related to meningitis, brain tumors, or other causes
Hyperesthesia
A condition of abnormal and excessive sensitivity to the touch, pain, or other sensory stimuli. Hyper- means excessive, -esthesia means sensation or feeling
Ischemic stroke
A type of stroke that occurs when the flow of blood to the brain is blocked by the narrowing or blockage of a carotid artery. Most common type of stroke
Lethargy
A lowered level of consciousness marked by listlessness, drowsiness, and apathy
Meningitis
Inflammation of the meninges of the brain or spinal cord. Also referred to infectious meningitis. Mening means meninges, -itis means inflammation. This condition which can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection elsewhere in the body, is characterized by intense headache and flu-like symptoms. Bacterial meningitis, which is less common, is sometimes fatal
Meningocele
The congenital herniation of the meninges that surround the brain or spinal cord through a defect in the skull or spinal column. Mening/o means meninges, -Cele means hernia
Migraine headache
A headache which may be precede by a warning aura, is characterized by throbbing pain one one side of the head and is sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Primarily affects women
Multiple sclerosis
MS. A progressive autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation that causes demyelination of the myelin sheath, resulting in scarring of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. This damage leaves the patient with varying degrees of pain plus physical and cognitive problems
Myelitis
Inflammation of the spinal cord, also Inflammation of bone marrow. Myel means spinal cord and bone marrow, -itis means inflammation
Myelography
A radiographic study of the spinal cord after the injection of a contrast medium through a lumbar puncture. Myel/o means spinal cord, -graphy means the process of producing a picture or record
Narcolepsy
A sleep disorder consisting of sudden and uncontrollable brief episodes of falling asleep during the day. Narc/o means stupor, -lepsy means seizure
Neurotransmitters
Chemical substances that make it possible for messages to cross from the synapse of a neuron to the target receptor. There are between 200-309 known transmitters, and each has a specialized function
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
OCD. An anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent obsessions and compulsions
Panic attack
An unexpected, sudden experience of fear in the absence of danger, accompanied by physical symptoms such as heat palpitations, shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, sweating, nausea, feelings of unreality, and/or choking sensations. It’s unneeded activation of the body’s fight-or-flight response
Paresthesia
A burning or trickling sensation that is usually felt in the hands, arms, legs, or feet, but can also occur in other parts of the body. Par- means abnormal, -esthesia means sensation or feeling. These sensations may constitute the first symptoms of peripheral neuropathy or may be a drug side effect
Parkinson’s disease
A chronic, degenerative central nervous system disorder characterized by fine muscle tremors, rigidity, and a slow or shuffling gait caused by inadequate levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain
Peripheral neuropathy
A disorder of the peripheral nerves that carry information to and from the brain and spinal cord, producing pain, the loss of sensation, and the inability to control muscles, particularly in the arms or legs. Neur/o means nerve, -pathy means disease
Post-traumatic stress disorder
PTSD. A disorder that may develop after an event involving actual or threatened death or injury to the individual or someone else, during which the person felt intense fear, helplessness, or horror with symptoms including emotional numbing, hyperarousal, anxiety, sleep disorders, and persistent reliving of the event. Post- means after, trauma means injury, -tic means pertaining to
Reye’s syndrome
RS. A potentially serious or deadly disorder in children that is characterized by vomiting and confusion, sometimes follows a viral illness in which the child was treated with aspirin
Schizophrenia
A psychotic disorder usually characterized by withdrawal from reality, illogical patterns of thinking, delusions and hallucinations, and accompanied by varying degrees by other emotional, behavioral, or intellectual disturbances
Sciatica
Inflammation of the sciatic nerve that results in pain, burning, and tingling along the course of the affected nerve through the thigh, leg, and sometimes into the foot
Seizure
A sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that affects how a person feels or acts for a short time. Some seizures can hardly be noticed, whereas others cause a brief loss of consciousness. Seizures are symptoms of different disorders that can affect the brain and also can be caused by extreme high fever, brain injury, or brain lesions
Shaken baby syndrome
The results when a child has been violently shaken by someone, can cause brain injury, blindness, fractures, seizures, paralysis, and death
Syncope
The brief loss of consciousness caused by the decreased flow of blood to the brain, also known as fainting
Trigeminal neuralgia
A condition characterized by severe lightning-like pain due to an inflammation of the fifth cranial nerve, affects the cheeks, lips, and gums on the side of the face innervated by the affected nerve
Functions of the nervous system
The nervous system, with the brain at its center, Coordinates and controls all bodily activities. When the brain ceases functioning, the body is no longer able to live on its own
Structures of the nervous system
Major structures are the nerves, brain, spinal cord, and sensory organs. Sensory organs are the eyes, ears, nose, skin, and tongue
2 primary parts of the nervous system
- Central nervous system
- Peripheral nervous system
CNS
Central nervous system
PNS
Peripheral nervous system
Central nervous system
CNS. Includes the brain and spinal cord. The functions are to receive and process information and to regulate all bodily activity. These structures are protected externally by the bones of the cranium and the vertebrae of the spinal column. Within these bony structures, the brain and spinal cord are further protected by meninges and the cerebrospinal fluid
Peripheral nervous system
PNS. Includes the 12 pairs of cranial nerves extending from the brain and the 31 pairs of peripheral spinal nerves extending outward from the spinal cord. Function is to transmit nerve signals to and from the central nervous system
Nerve
One or more bundles of neurons that connect the brain and spinal cord with other parts of the body
Tract
A bundle or group of nerve fibers located within the brain or spinal cord
Ascending nerve tracts
Carry nerve impulses toward the brain
Descending nerve tracts
Carry nerve impulses away from the brain
Ganglion
A nerve center made up of a cluster of nerve cell bodies outside the central nerve system. Plural ganglia or ganglions
Ganglion
A nerve center made up of a cluster of nerve cell bodies outside the central nerve system. Plural ganglia or ganglions
Innervation
The supply of nerves to a specific body part
Plexus
A network of intersecting spinal nerves. Plural plexuses
Receptors
Sites in the sensory organs (eyes, ears, skin, nose, and taste buds) that receive external stimulation. The receptors send the stimulus through the sensory neurons to the brain for interpretation
Stimulus
Anything that excites (activates) a nerve and causes an impulse. Plural stimuli
Impulse
A wave of excitation transmitted through nerve fibers and neurons
Reflex
An automatic, involuntary response to some change, either inside or outside the body
Examples of reflex action
- Changes in the heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure
- Coughing and sneezing
- Responses to painful stimuli
- Deep tendon reflexes
Neurons
The basic cells of the nervous system that allow different parts of the body to communicate with each other. The body has billions of neurons carrying nerve impulses throughout the body via an electrochemical process. In the brain, this process creates brain waves. Each neuron consists of a cell body, several dendrites, a single axon, and terminal end fibers
Brain waves
Patterns of neuron electrical activity. Different types are produced during periods of intense activity, rest, and sleep
3 types of neurons
Described according to their function
ACE
1. Afferent neurons
2. Connecting neurons
3. Efferent neurons
ACE
Afferent neurons, connecting neurons, efferent neurons
SAM
Sensory neurons, associative neurons, motor neurons
Afferent
Toward
Afferent neurons
Also known as sensory neurons. These neurons emerge from sensory organs and the skin to carry the impulses from the sensory organs toward the brain and spinal cord
Connecting neurons
Also known as associative neurons. These neurons link different and efferent neurons
Efferent
Away from
Efferent neurons
Also known as motor neurons. These neurons carry impulses away from the brain and spinal cord and toward the muscles and glands
Dendrites
The root-like processes that receive impulses and conduct them to the cell body
Process
A structure that extends out from the cell body
Axon
A process that conducts impulses away from the nerve cell. Can be more than 3 feet long. Many, but not all, axons are protected by a myelin sheath, which is a white fatty tissue covering
Terminal end fibers
The branching fibers at the end of the axon that lead the nerve impulse from the axon to the synapse
Synapse
The space between two neurons or between a neuron and a receptor organ. A single neuron can have a few or several hundred synapses
Acetylcholine
Released at some synapses in the spinal cord and at neuromuscular junctions, it influences muscle action
Dopamine
Released within the brain. An excess of dopamine is associated with schizophrenia, mood and thought disorders and in abnormal movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease
Endorphins
Naturally occurring substances that are produced by the brain to help relieve pain
Norepinephrine
Affects alertness and arousal, increasing blood pressure and heart rate, and releasing stores of glucose in response to stress. It is also a hormone released by the adrenal gland as part of the body’s fight-or-flight response
Serotonin
Released in the brain, has roles in sleep, hunger, and pleasure recog6. It is also sometimes linked to mood disorders
Glial cells
Provide support and protection for neurons
4 main functions of glial cells
- To surround neurons and hold them in place
- To supply nutrients and oxygen to neurons
- To insulate one neuron from another
- To destroy and remove dead neurons
Myelin sheath
The protective covering made up of glial cells. This white sheath forms the white matter of the brain and covers some parts of the spinal cord and the axon of most peripheral nerves
White matter
Portion of the nerve fibers that are myelinated. It is the color of this covering that makes these fibers white
Myelinated
Having a myelin sheath
Unmyelinated
Lacking a myelin sheath
Gray matter
Portions of the nerve fibers that are unmyelinated. The lack of the myelin sheath reveals the brownish-gray color of the cortex of the cerebrum and cerebellum, and the core of the spinal cord
Dura
Hard
Mater
Mother
3 layers of connective tissue in meninges
- Dura mater
- Arachnoid membrane
- Pia mater
Meninges
The system of membranes that enclose the brain and spinal cord. Singular meninx
Epidural space
Inner surface of the vertebral column. This space, which is located between the walls of the vertebral column and the dura mater of the meninges, contains fat and supportive connective tissues to cushion the dura mater
Subdural space
In both the skull and vertebral column, this space is located between the dura mater and the arachnoid membrane
Arachnoid
Having to do with spiders
Subarachnoid space
Which is located below the arachnoid membrane and above the pia mater, contains cerebrospinal fluid
Arachnoid membrane
Resembles a spider web, is the second layer of the meninges and is located between the dura mater and the pia mater. This membrane is loosely attached to the other meninges to allow space for fluid to flow between the layers
Pia
Tender or delicate
Pia mater
Third layer of the meninges, is located nearest to the brain and spinal cord. It consists of delicate connective tissue that contains a rich supply of blood vessels
Functions of cerebrospinal fluid
- Cool and cushion these organs from shock or injury
- Nourish the brain and spinal cord by transporting nutrients and chemical messengers to these tissues
Cerebrospinal fluid
Also known as spinal fluid. Produced by special capillaries within the four ventricles located in the middle region of the cerebrum. Fluid is a clear, colorless, watery fluid that flows throughout the brain and around the spinal cord
Parts of brain
- Cerebrum
- Thalamus
- Hypothalamus
- Cerebellum
- Brainstem
Cerebrum
Largest and uppermost part of the brain, consists of four lobes. Controls the highest level of thought, including judgment, memory, association, and critical thinking. It also processes sensations and controls all voluntary muscle activity
Thalamus
Located below the cerebrum. Relays sensory stimuli from the spinal cord and midbrain to the cerebral cortex. The thalamus suppresses some stimuli and magnifies ithers
Hypothalamus
Located below the thalamus. Controls vital bodily functions
Cerebellum
Located in the lower back of the cranium below the cerebrum.
Receives incoming messages regarding movement within joints, muscle tone, and positions of the body. From here, messages are relayed to the different parts of the brain that control the motions of skeletal muscles.
The general functions are to produce smooth and coordinated movements, to maintain equilibrium, and to sustain normal postures
Brainstem
Stalk-like portion of the brain, Located in the base of the brain and forms the connection between the brain and spinal cord. It consists of midbrain, pons, medulla oblongata. Controls the function necessary for survival (breathing, digestion, heart rate, and blood pressure) and for arousal (being awake and alert)
Cerebral
Pertaining to the cerebrum or to the brain. Cerebr means brain, -al means pertaining to
Cerebral cortex
Made up of gray matter, the outer layer of the cerebrum and is made up of elevated folds and deep fissures
Gyri
Elevated folds of gray matter in the cerebral cortex. Singular gyrus
Fissure
Normally occurring deep grooves
Sulci
Fissures of the cerebral cortex. Singular sulcus
Cerebral hemispheres
Two parts of the cerebrum that are connected at the lower midpoint by the corpus callosum. The crossing of nerve fibers that makes this arrangement possible occurs in the brainstem
Left cerebral hemisphere
Controls the majority of functions on the right side if the body. An injury to the left hemisphere produces sensory and motor deficits on the right side of the body
Right cerebral hemisphere
Controls most of the functions on the left side of the body. An injury to the right hemisphere produces sensory and motor deficits on the left side of the body
Cerebral lobes
Each cerebral hemisphere is subdivided to create pairs of cerebral lobes. Each lobe is named for the bone of the cranium that covers it
Frontal lobe
Controls skilled motor functions, memory, and behavior
Parietal lobe
Receives and interprets nerve impulses from sensory receptors in the tongue, skin, and muscles
Occipital lobe
Controls eyesight
Temporal lobe
Controls the senses of hearing and smell, and the ability to create, store, and access new information
7 major regulatory functions of the hypothalamus
- Regulates and integrates the autonomic nervous system, including controlling heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and digestive tract activity
- Regulates emotional responses, including fear and pleasure
- Regulates body temperature
- Regulates food intake by controlling hunger sensations
- Regulates water balance by controlling thirst sensations
- Regulates sleep-wakefullness cycles
- Regulates the pituitary gland and endocrine system activity
Midbrain
Pons
Provide conduction pathways to and from the higher and lower centers of the brain. They also control reflexes for movements of the eyes and head in response to visual and auditory stimuli. Pons is latin word for bridge
Medulla oblongata
Located at the lowest part of the brainstem, is connected to the spinal cord. It controls basic survival functions, including the muscles that make possible respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure, as well as reflexes for coughing, sneezing, swallowing and vomiting
Spinal cord
Long, fragile, tube-like structure that begins at the end of the brainstem and continues down almost to the bottom of the spinal column. Contains all the nerves that affects the limbs and lower part of the body, and serves as the pathway for impulses traveling to and from the brain. Surrounded and protected by cerebrospinal fluid and the meninges
Peripheral
Pertaining to body parts that are away from the center of the body
3 types of specialized peripheral nerves
These nerves transmitted signals to and from the central nervous system
1. Autonomic nerve fibers
2. Sensory nerve fibers
3. Somatic nerve fibers
Peripheral nervous system
Consists of the 12 pairs of cranial nerves that extend from the brain, plus 31 pairs of spinal nerves that extend from the spinal cord
Autonomic nerve fibers
Carry instructions to the organs and glands from the autonomic nervous system
Sensory nerve fibers
Receive external stimuli, such as how something feels, and transmit this information to the brain where it is interpreted
Somatic nerve fibers
Also known as motor nerve fibers, convey information that controls the body’s voluntary muscular movements
Somatic nerve fibers
Also known as motor nerve fibers, convey information that controls the body’s voluntary muscular movements
Cranial nerves
12 pairs of cranial nerves originate from the under-surface of the brain. The two nerves of a pair are identical in function and structure, and each nerve of a pair serves half of the body. These cranial nerves are identified by Roman numerals and are named for the area or function they serve
Peripheral spinal nerves
31 pairs of peripheral spinal nerves are grouped together and named based on the region of the body they innervate. Within each region, the nerves are referred to by number. The cervical nerves are C1-C8, the thoracic nerves are T1-T12, the lumbar nerves are L1-L5, and sacral nerves are S1-S5. Spinal nerves sometimes join with others to form a plexus to innervate a certain area
Homeostasis
Process of maintaining the constant internal environment of the body
Fight-or-flight response
Body’s natural reaction or real or imaginary danger
2 divisions of autonomic nervous system
- Sympathetic nerves
- Parasympathetic nerves
Autonomic nervous system
Controls the involuntary actions of the body such as the functioning of internal organs. To maintain homeostasis within the body, each division (sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves) balances the activity of the other division
Autonomic nervous system
Controls the involuntary actions of the body such as the functioning of internal organs. To maintain homeostasis within the body, each division (sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves) balances the activity of the other division
Sympathetic nerves
Prepare the body for emergencies and stress by increasing the respiratory rate, heart rate, and blood flow to muscles. These nerves beco.e aroused as part of the fight-or-flight response
Parasympathetic nerves
Return the body to normal after a response to stress. They also maintain normal body functions during ordinary circumstances that are not emotionally or physically stressful
Anesthesiologist
A physician who specializes in administering anesthetic agents before and during surgery. An-means without, esthesi means feeling, -ologist means specialist
Neurologist
A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the nervous system. Neur means nerve, -ologist means specialist
Neurosurgeon
A physician who specializes in surgery of the nervous system
Psychiatrist
A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating chemical dependencies, emotional problems, and mental illness. Psych means mind, -iatrist means specialist. Can provide medications
Psychologist
Has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) but is not a medical doctor. This specialist evaluates and treats emotional problems and mental illness. Psych means mind, -ologist means specialist
Social worker
Trained therapist, usually with a master’s degree (MSW)
Cephalgia
Also known as headache. Pain in the head. Cephal means head, -algia means pain
Warning aura
A visual disturbance perceived by the patient preceding a migraine headache or epileptic seizure
Cluster headache
Intensely painful headaches that affect one side of the head and may be associated with tearing of the eyes and nasal congestion. These headaches, which primarily affect men, are named for their repeated occurrence in groups or clusters
Congenital
Present at birth
Herniation
Protusion of a structure from its normal position
Encephalocele
Also known as craniocele. A congenital herniation of brain tissue through a gap in the skull. Encephal/o means brain, -Cele means hernia
Meningioma
A common slow-growing, and usually benign tumor of the meninges. Mening/I means meninges, -oma means tumor
Mild cognitive impairment
A memory disorder, usually associated with recently acquired information, which may be an early predictor of Alzheimer’s disease
Senile dementia
Dementia of the aged
Sundowning
Refers to a group of symptoms leading to a state of confusion that can happen towards the end of the day in patients with dementia
RS
Reye’s syndrome
Vascular dementia
A form of dementia caused by a stroke or other restriction of the flow of blood to the brain. Although Alzheimer’s disease is the primary cause of dementia, vascular dementia accounts for about 10-20% of all cases
Tetanus
Also known as lockjaw. An acute and potentially fatal infection of the central nervous system caused by a toxin produced by the tetanus bacteria. Can be prevented through immunization. In unimmunized people, this condition is typically acquired through a deep puncture wound
Neurodegenerative disease
Also called degenerative nerve disease. An umbrella term for disorders in which there is a progressive loss of the structure or functions of the neurons
Gait
Manner of walking
Huntington’s disease
A genetic disorder that is classified as a neurodegenerative disease
Lewy body dementia
2nd most common type of dementia, occurs when abnormal proteins interfere with cell function in the brain. It is named after neurologist Frederic Lewy
ALS
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Amnesia
A memory disturbance characterized by a total or partial inability to recall past experiences. This condition can be caused by a brain injury, illness, or a psychological disturbance
Epidural hematoma
Named for their location, a type of cranial hematoma, located above the dura mater
Subdural hematoma
Named for their location, a type of cranial hematoma, located below the dura mater
Traumatic brain injury
Blow to the head or penetrative head injury that damages the brain. Not all blows to the head result in damage to the brain. When an injury does occur, it can range from mild, with only a brief change in mental status, to severe, with longer-lasting effects
Coup
Describes an injury occurring within the skull near the point of impact, such as hitting the windshield in an auto accident
Contrecoup
Also described as counterblow. An injury that occurs beneath the skull opposite to the area of impact
LOC
Levels of consciousness
ALOC
Altered levels of consciousness
Levels of consciousness
LOC. Describe the measurement of response to arousal and stimulus
Altered levels of consciousness
ALOC. Refer to a decrease in consciousness due to injury, disease, or substances such as medication, drugs, or alcohol
Conscious
The state of being awake, alert, aware, and responding appropriately
Unconscious
The state of being unaware and unable to respond to any stimuli, including pain
Apathy
Indifference and a reduced level of activity
Lethargic
Refers to a person who is at this level of consciousness
Stupor
An unresponsive state from which a person can be aroused only briefly despite vigorous, repeated attempts
Comatose
Refers to a person who is in a coma
Persistent vegetative state
A type of coma in which the patient exhibits alternating sleep and wake cycles, however, due to severe damage to certain areas of the brain, the person is unconscious even when appearing to be awake
Delirious
An individual suffering from delirium
Brain tumor
An abnormal growth located inside the skull
Malignant brain tumor
Destroys brain tissue. When this cancer originates in the brain, it is considered to be the primary site. If this cancer metastasizes (spreads) to the brain from another body system, it is considered to be a secondary site
Benign brain tumor
Does not invade brain tissue, however, because this growth is surrounded by rigid bone, as the tumor enlarges, it can damage the brain tissue by placing pressure against the tissue and by increasing the intracranial pressure
Intracranial pressure
Amount of pressure inside the skull. Intra- means within, crani means cranium, -al means pertaining to. Elevated intracranial pressure can be due to a tumor, an injury, or improper drainage of cerebrospinal fluid. This pressure potentially restricts the flow of blood to the brain, depriving it of oxygen
CVA
Cerebrovascular accident
Cerebrovascular accident
CVA. A stroke, damage to the brain that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is disrupted because a blood vessel is either blocked or has ruptured. Strokes are currently the third-leading cause of death and the primary cause of long-term disability
FAST
Facial droop: one side of the face droops or does not move equally when the person smiles
Arm drift: weakness on one side of the body, demonstrated by one arm drifting down when both arms are extended
Speech abnormality: slurred speech, using the wrong words, or unable to speak
Time: if any of the signs are present, immediate conveyance to the emergency room is essential for critical treatments such as thrombolytics
Cincinnati prehospital stroke scale
3-question scale used to recognize CVA using the mnemonic FAST. This test can be used by members of the public as well as first responders to see if a stroke is occurring
Ischemic
Pertaining to the disruption of the blood supply
Thrombotic stroke
Occurs when a blood clot forms in a carotid artery and blocks it
Embolic stroke
Occurs when a blood clot or other debris forms in a blood vessel somewhere other than the brain and travels through the bloodstream to lodge in the narrower brain arteries
Transient ischemic attack
TIA. Sometimesreferred to as mini-stroke. Temporary interruption in the blood supply to the brain. Symptoms of TIA include numbness, blurred vision, dizziness, or loss of balance. A TIA passes in less than an hour, however, this incident is often a warning sign that the individual is at risk for a more serious and debilitating stroke
Transient
Passing quickly
Aphasia
Often caused by brain damage associated with a stroke, is a loss of the ability to speak, write, and/or comprehend the written or spoken word. A- means without, -phasia means speech
TIA
Transient ischemic attack
Aneurysm
Localized, weak, balloon-like enlargement of an artery wall
Arteriovenous malformation
AVM. One of the causes of hemorrhagic strokes. This abnormal connection between the arteries and veins in the brain is usually congenital and can rupture suddenly at any age. Arteri/o means artery, ven means vein, -ous means pertaining to
AVM
Arteriovenous malformation
Insomnia
Prolonged or abnormal inability to sleep. This condition is usually a symptom of another problem such as depression, pain, or excessive caffeine. In- means without, somn means sleep, -ia means abnormal condition
Sleep deprivation
Sufficient lack of restorative sleep over a cumulative period so as to cause physical or psychiatric symptoms and affect routine performance or tasks
Somnambulism
Also known as sleepwalking or noctambulism. The condition of walking or performing some other activity without awakening. Somn means sleep, ambul means to walk, -ism means condition of
Myelosis
A tumor of the spinal cord. Myel means spinal cord and bone marrow, -osis means abnormal condition. Also means an abnormal proliferation of bone marrow tissue
Poliomyelitis
Also known as polio, a highly contagious viral infection of the brainstem and spinal cord that sometimes leads to paralysis. Poli/o means gray matter, myel means spinal cord and bone marrow, -itis means inflammation. There is no known cure for polio, however it can be prevented through vaccination
Post-polio syndrome
Reoccurrence later in life of some polio syndrome in individuals who have had childhood poliomyelitis and have recovered from it
Radiculitis
Also known as pinched nerve, an inflammation of the root of a spinal nerve that causes pain and numbness radiating down the affected limb. Radicul means root or nerve root, -itis means inflammation. This term usually applies to that portion of the root that lies between the spinal cord and the intervertebral canal of the spinal column
Lumbar radiculopthy
Nerve pain the the lower back caused by muscle spasms or nerve root irritation from the compression of vertebral disks such as a herniated disk
Demyelination
Loss of patches of the protective myelin sheath
Exacerbations
Episodes of worsening symptoms. Also referred as flares
Remission
A time during which the symptoms ease, but the disease has not been cured
Neuritis
An inflammation of a nerve accompanied by pain and sometimes loss of function. Neur means nerve, -itis means inflammation
Spasticity
A condition in which certain muscles are continuously contracted
Palsy
Paralysis of a body part that is often accompanied by loss of feeling and uncontrolled body movements, such as shaking
Tonic-clonic seizure
Also called grand Mal seizure, involves the entire body. In the tonic phase of the seizure, the body becomes rigid, and in the clonic phase, there is uncontrolled jerking
Absence seizure
Also called petit mal seizure. A brief disturbance in brain function in which there is a loss of awareness often described as a staring episode
Neuropathy
Any disease or damage to a nerve
Mononeuropathy
Damage to a singular peripheral nerve, as in carpal tunnel syndrome
Polyneuropathy
When multiple peripheral nerves are damaged. Diabetes is a common cause of polyneuropathy, along with trauma, vitamin deficiencies, and alcholism
RLS
Restless leg syndrome
Restless leg syndrome
RLS. Neurological disorder characterized by uncomfortable feelings in the legs, producing a strong urge to move them. The sensation is usually most noticeable at night or when trying to rest
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging
CT
Computed tomography
fMRI
Functional magnetic resonance imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging
and
Compute tomography
MRI. CT. Important neuroimaging tools because they facilitate the examination of the soft tissue structures of the brain and spinal cord
Functional MRI
fMRI. Detects changes in blood flow in the brain when the patient is asked to perform a specific task. This gives a clearer picture of the brain tissue relevant to accomplishing this task
EEG
Electroencephalogram
Electroencephalogram
EEG. Resulting record of an electroencephalography. This electrical activity may also be displayed on a monitor as brain waves
Myelogram
Resulting record of a myelography
EMG
Electromyography
Electromyography
EMG. Utilizes electrodes taped to the skin to measure the transfer of electrical signals in peripheral nerves to the muscles
LP
Lumbar puncture
Lumbar puncture
LP. Also known as spinal tap. The process of obtaining a sample of cerebrospinal fluid by inserting a needle into the subarachnoid space of the lumbar region to withdraw fluid. Changes in the composition of the cerebrospinal fluid can be an indication of injury, infection, or disease
Hypnotic
Depresses the central nervous system and usually produces sleep
Anticonvulsant
Administered to prevent seizures such as those associated with epilepsy
Barbiturates
A class of drugs whose major action is a calming or depressed effect on the central nervous system
Amobarbital
A barbiturate used as a sedative and hypnotic
Phenobarbital
A barbiturate used as a sedative and as an anticonsulvant
Sedative
Depresses the central nervous system to produce calm and diminished responsiveness without producing sleep
Sedation
Effect produced by a sedative
Anesthesia
Absence of normal sensation, especially sensitivity to pain, that is induced by the administration of an anesthetic agent. An- means without, -esthesia means feeling
General anesthesia
Involves the total loss of body sensation and consciousness induced by anesthetic agents administered primarily by inhalation or intravenous injection
Local anesthesia
Causes the loss of sensation in a limited area by injecting an anesthetic solution near the area
Regional anesthesia
Temporary interruption of nerve conduction, is produced by injecting an anesthetic solution near the nerves to be blocked
Spinal anesthetic
Regional anesthesia produced by injecting medication into the subarachnoid space. As with epidural anesthesia, the patient remains conscious. Spinal anesthesia provides numbness from the toes to the waist or lower chest
Topical anesthesia
Numbs only the tissue surface and is applied as a liquid, ointment, or spray
DBS
Deep brain stimulation
Deep brain stimulation
DBS. Neurosurgical procedure used in the treatment of dystonia, tremors, and Parkinson’s disease. A device to stimulate the brain with mild electrical signals is implanted in the brain and is connected to a stimulator implanted near the collar bone
Dystonia
Impairment of voluntary muscle movement
Gamma knife surgery
A type of radiation treatment for brain tumors performed without a knife or an incision. The surgeon uses gamma radiation to destroy diseased tissue while preserving healthy tissue around the tumor
Gamma radiation
Characterized by high energy and a short wavelength, also used in nuclear medicine
Electroconvulsive therapy
Also known as electroshock therapy. A procedure in which small amounts of electric current are passed through the brain, deliberately triggering a brief seizure in order to reverse symptoms of certain mental illnesses
Lobectomy
A surgical removal of a portion of the brain to treat brain cancer or seizure disorders that cannot be controlled with medication
Thalamotomy
Surgical incision into the thalamus. Thalam means thalamus, -otomy means surgical incision. This procedure, which destroys brain cells, is primarily performed to quiet the tremors of Parkinson’s disease
Transcranial magnetic stimulation
TMS. Uses brief, powerful electromagnetic pulses to alter electrical pathways in the brain
TMS
Transcranial magnetic stimulation
Neuroplasty
Surgical repair of a nerve or nerves. Neur/o means nerve, -plasty means surgical repair
Neurorrhaphy
Surgically suturing together the ends of a severed nerve. Neur/o means nerve, -rrhaphy means surgical suturing
Neurotomy
Surgical division or dissection (cutting) of a nerve. Neur means nerve, -otomy means surgical incision
DSM
The diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders
The diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders
DSM. Currently in 5th edition, is the gold standard for diagnosing mental disorders
Causes of mental health
Congenital abnormalities, physical changes, substance abuse, trauma, medications, or any combination of these factors
Anxiety disorders
Mental conditions characterized by excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations or fear that is out of proportion to the real danger in a situation. Without treatment, an anxiety disorder can become chronic
GAD
Generalized anxiety disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder
GAD. Characterized by chronic, excessive worrying. Physical symptoms associated with this condition can include muscle tension, sleep disturbance, irritability, trouble concentrating, and restlessness
Panic disorder
Characterized by fear of panic attacks. Can cause people to develop agoraphobia or other phobias
PTSD
Post traumatic stress disorder
Phobia
A persistent, irrational fear of a specific thing or situation, strong enough to cause significant distress, to interfere with functioning, and to lead to the avoidance of the thing or situation that causes this reaction
Agoraphobia
Excessive fear of environments where the person fears a panic attack might occur. In order to avoid these situations, someone suffering from agoraphobia might not be able to leave home. Agor/a means marketplace, -phobia means abnormal fear
Social anxiety disorder
Also called social phobia. Excessive fear of social situations where the person fears negative evaluation by others and embarrassing him- or herself in front of others
Obsessions
Repetitive, intrusive, distressing thoughts or impulses
OCD
Obsessive-compulsive behavior
Compulsions
Repeatedly feeling compelled to do things, like wash or pray
Hoarding disorders
Characterized by the over accumulation of belongings in a way that interferes with daily living. Hoarding can create unsafe and unsanitary living conditions
ADHD
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
ADHD. Characterized by a short attention span and impulsive behavior that is inappropriate for the child’s developmental age
Hyperactivity
Restlessness or a continuing excess of movement
ADD
Attention deficit disorder
Attention deficit disorder
ADD. Sometimes used if hyperactivity is not present
Learning disabilities
Disorders found in children of normal intelligence who have difficulties in learning specific skills such as processing language or grasping mathematical concepts
Intellectual disability
Also called intellectual developmental disorder, a diagnosis of significant below-average intellectual and adaptive functioning present from birth or early infancy
ASD
Autistic spectrum disorder
Autistic spectrum disorder
ASD. Describes a condition with different levels of symptom severity in which a young child has difficulty developing normal social relationships and communication skills, may compulsively follow repetitive routines, and has narrowly focused, intense interests that are sometimes unusual
Asperger’s syndrome
Another subgroup of the autism spectrum . Individuals with this syndrome usually have normal or above-averahe intelligence but are impaired in social interactions and nonverbal communication
Dissociative disorders
Occur when normal thought is separated from consciousness
Dissociative identity disorder
Also known as multiple personality disorder, mental illness characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personalities, each with its own characteristics, which appear to exist within the same individual
-mania
Madness
Impulse control disorders
Group of psychiatric disorders characterized by a failure to resist an impulse despite potential negative consequences
Kleptomania
Disorder characterized by repeatedly stealing objects neither for personal use nor for their monetary value
Pyromania
Disorder characterized by repeated, deliberate fire setting
Oppositional defiant disorder
Characterized by a child, or adolescents persistent angry, uncooperative, and disruptive behavior directed toward authority figures, which disrupts daily activities
Bipolar disorder
A condition characterized by cycles of severe mood changes shifting between highs (manic behavior, sometimes including a feeling of euphoria) and severe lows (depression) that affects a person’s attitude, energy, and ability to function
Euphoria
Intense happiness and excitement
Manic behavior
Includes an abnormally elevated mood of euphoria, including inappropriate elation, increased irritability, severe insomnia, poor judgment, and inappropriate social behavior
Suicide
Intentional taking of one’s own life
Depression
Common mood disorder characterized by lethargy and sadness, as well as the loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities. Severe depression may lead to feelings of worthlessness and thoughts of death, self-harm, and suicide
Persistent depressive disorder
Also known as dysthymia. Low-grade chronic depression with symptoms that are milder than those of severe depression but are present on a majority of days for two or more years
DMDD
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
SAD
Seasonal affective disorder
Disruptive mood dysrefulation disorder
DMDD. Newer diagnosis for children who have frequent, severe temper outbursts and are chronically irritable
Seasonal affective disorder
SAD. A seasonal bout of depression associated with the decrease in hours of daylight during winter months
Emaciated
Abnormally thin
BED
Binge eating disorder
Binge eating disorder
BED. Characterized by frequent episodes of eating large quantities of food, accompanied by a sense of loss of control and feelings of guilt or shame afterward
Bulimia nervosa
Eating disorder characterized by frequent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercising, or the misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications
Personality disorder
Chronic pattern of inner experience and behavior that causes serious problems with relationships and work. This pattern is pervasive and inflexible, has an onset in adolescence or early adulthood, is stable over time, and leads to distress or impairment
Antisocial personality disorder
A pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others. This pattern brings the individual into continuous conflict with society
Borderline personality disorder
Characterized by impulsive actions, often with the potential for self-harm, as well as mood instability and chaotic relationships
Narcisstic personality disorder
Pattern of extreme preoccupation with the self and complete lack of empathy for others
Empathy
The ability to understand another person’s mental and emotional state without becoming personally involved
Psychotic disorder
Characterized by the loss of contact with reality and deterioration of normal social functioning
Catatonic behavior
Marked by a lack of responsiveness, stupor, and a tendency to remain in a fixed posture
Somatic symptom disorder
Characterized by physical complaints or concerns about one’s body that are out of proportion to any physical findings or disease
Factitious
Artificial, self-induced, or not naturally occurring
Factitious disorder by proxy
A form of child abuse. Although seeming very concerned about the child’s well-being, the mentally ill parent will falsify an illness in a child by making up or inducing symptoms and then seeking medical treatment, even surgery for a child
Conversion disorder
Characterized by serious temporary or ongoing changes in function, such as paralysis or blindness, that are triggered by psychological factors rather than by any physical cause
Malingering
Characterized by the intentional creation of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms. In contrast to a factitious disorder, this condition is motivated by incentives such as avoiding work
Substance abuse
Addictive use of tobacco, alcohol, medications, or illegal drugs. This abuse leads to significant impairment in functioning, danger to one’s self or others, and recurrent legal and/or interpersonal problems
Alcoholism
Chronic alcohol dependence with specific signs and symptoms upon withdrawal
Withdrawal
Psychological or physical syndrome (or both) caused by the abrupt cessation (stopping) of the use of alcohol or drugs in an addicted individual
Drug abuse
Excessive use of illegal or recreational drugs, or the misuse of prescription drugs
Recreational drug
One normally used for personal pleasure or satisfaction rather than medical purposes
Drug overdose
Potentially fatal, accidental or intentional use of an illegal drug or prescription medicine in an amount higher than what is safe or normal
Gender dysphoria
Condition where a person’s gender at birth does not match the gender with which they currently identify, potentially causing significant amounts of stress. These feelings can begin in early childhood
Dysphoria
Dissatisfaction
Transgender
Refers to a person whose gender identity does not match their gender at birth
Psychotrophic drug
Acts primarily on the central nervous system, where it produces temporary changes affecting the mind, emotions and behavior. Psych/o means mind, -tropic means having an affinity for. These drugs are used as medications to control pain and to treat narcolepsy and attention disorders
Antidepressant
Administered to prevent or relieve depression. Some of these medications are also used to treat obsessive-compulsive and generalized anxiety disorders and to help relieve chronic pain
Antipsychotic drug
Also called neuroleptic. Administered to treat symptoms of severe disorders of thinking and mood that are associated with neurological and psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, mania, and delusional disorders. Anti- means against, psych/o means mind, -tic means pertaining to
Anxiolytic drug
Also known as anti anxiety drug or tranquilizer. Administered to temporarily relieve anxiety and to reduce tension. Anxi/o means anxiety, -lytic means to destroy
Mood-stablizing drugs
Such as lithium, used to treat mood instability and bipolar disorders
Stimulant
Works by increasing activity in certain areas of the brain to increase concentration and wakefulness. Drug therapies using stimulants have been effective in treating ADHD and narcolepsy. The overuse of stimulants, including caffeine, can cause sleeplessness and heart palpitations
Psychoanalysis
Based on the idea that mental disorders have underlying causes stemming from childhood and can only be overcome by gaining insight into one’s feelings and patterns of behavior
Behavioral therapy
Focuses on changing behavior by identifying problem behaviors, replacing them with appropriate behaviors, and using rewards or other consequences to make the changes
CBT
Cognitive behavioral therapy
DBT
Dialectical behavior therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT. Focuses on changing thoughts that are affecting a person’s emotions and actions. These are identified and then are challenged through logic, gathering evidence, testing in action, or a combination of these. The goal is to change problematic beliefs
Dialectical behavior therapy
DBT. Used to treat people with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or borderline personality disorder
Hypnotherapy
Use of hypnosis to produce an altered state of focused attention in which the patient may be more willing to believe and act on suggestions. It is used for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and behavioral modification
AD
Alzheimer’s disease
CP
Cerebral palsy
CSF
Cerebrospinal fluid
ICP
Intracranial pressure
Sz
Seizure
Gli/o
Glial cell
-blast
Immature
