Common Diseases and Disorders Flashcards
Acne Vulgaris
Chronic inflammatory disease characterized by pustule eruptions of the skin. Overproduction of sebum produced around the roots in the follicle
Seborrhea
Overactivity of the sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands becomes infected called Seborrhea dermatitis
Seborrhoeic Keratosis
Benign skin growth. Waxy in appearance
Onychia and onychitis
Inflammation of the bed of the fingernail or toenail
Onychocryptosis
Commonly called ingrown toenail. The edges of the nail curve inward and cut into the skin resulting in inflammation and often infection
Onychomycosis
Fungal infection of the nail and can be caused by several different fungi
Mycosis
Abnormal condition caused by a fungus
Tinea
Infection in the skin, hair, nails and commonly called ringworm
Gangrene
Death of tissue mainly caused by loss of circulation to the area
Parasitic infestation
Dwelling of microscopic parasites on the surface of the skin. Parasites live and potentially lay eggs and reproduce on the skin surface
Lesions
Flurd-filled sacs or pockets in the skin
Crust or scab
Collection of dried serm and cellular debris after an injury
Macule
Discolored flat spot less than 1 cm in diameter
Weal
Smooth, slightly elevated, swollen area that is more red or paler than the surrounding skin
Nodule
Solid, raised lesion larger than 0.5 cm in diameter
Exudate
Fluid, such as pus, that leaks out of an infected wound
Psoriasis
Skin disorder resulting in flare-ups which red papules covered with silvery scales occur on the elbows, knees, scalp, back or buttock
Albinism
Genetic condition where there is a deficiency or absence of pigment in the skin, hair and irises of the eyes
Chloasma
Pigmentation disorder characterized by brown spots on the face often occurring in pregnancy after delivery
Vitiligo
Destruction of the melanocytes. Cause is not known. Irregular patches of the white skin
Alopecia
Partial or complete hair loss or baldness. Other types are called by different problems or chemicals
Androgenic alopecia
Most common type and refers to male pattern baldness due to hormones, can be found in females
Folliculitis
Inflammation of the hair follicle. Common location is arms, legs, beards. Common cause is bacteria found in poorly chlorinated hot tubs and whirl pools
Hirsutism
Presence of excessive body and facial hair in women. Usually occur in a male pattern and is hereditary or sometimes caused by a hormone imbalance
Contusion
A bruise caused by a blow or impact, leading to bleeding under the skin.
Ecchymosis
Commonly referred to as a bruise, it is a discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath due to trauma or injury.
Hematoma
Swelling of clotted blood in the tissue is typically caused by a forceful injury to the tissue.
Petechiae
Very small hemorrhages less than 2 mm in diameter. Sometimes occur after a high fever
Purpura
Purple discolorations on the skin caused by bleeding underneath the skin
Dermatits
Inflammation of the skin. The skin becomes res, swollen and itchy
Contact dermaitis
Contact with an irritant or allergen
Eczema
Persistent or reoccurring dermaitits resulting in redness, itching, and dryness. Skin can also blister, crack, ooze, bleed
Exfoliative dermatitis
Widespresd scaling of the skin. Ofent vomes with hair loss, erythroderma (redness) and pruritis (itching)
Lesions
Through the skin
Fissure
Groove or crack in the skin
Ulcer
Open lesion resulting in tissue loss around the edges
Pressure score
Also called decubitus ulcer or bedsore. Open ulcerated wound cauesed by prolonged pressure on an area of the skin
Fascitis
Inflammation of the fascia
Fibromyalgia
Debilitating and chronic where the person has fatigue, extreme weakness and experiences muscle, joint and bone pain
Tendonitis
Inflammation of the tendon caused by excessive use or an unusual use
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Disorder that affects many bodily systems and i’d characterized by profound fatigue, extreme weakness and pain in the muscles, joints and bone
Muscle Tone
State of balance of muscle tension caused by muscle contraction and relaxation
Atonic
Lack of normal muscle tone and strength
Dystonia
Abnormal muscle tone that interferes with normal muscle functions
Hypotonia
Diminishing of skeletal muscles. This limits passive movement
Myasthenia gravis
Chronic autoimmune disease affecting the neuromuscular junction. This is the place where the neuron activates the muscle to contract. This disorder causes significant weakness of the voluntary muscles, especially muscles that control eye movement, facial expression, chewing, talking and swallowing
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Tendons that pass through the carpal tunnel are overused over time and become inflamed and swollen.
Sprain
Injury to a joint (wrist, ankle, knee, etc) caused by a wrenching or tearing of the ligament in the joint
Strain
Injury to a muscle or the attached tendons usually associated with overuse or stretching or tearing of the muscle or tendon
Tendonitis
Inflammation of a specific tendon caused by overuse or severe stretching. A name for a specific tendon is Achilles tendonitis
IT band syndrome (ITBS)
IT called iliotibial, runs from hip bone across the leg to the tibia. ITBS is caused by overuse when the IT band rubs across the bone
Shin Splints
Condition in which the muscle tears away from the tibia or shin bone causing significant pain . Repeated stress on hard surfaces like running or jumping
Atropphy
Wearing away of the muscle fibers because of disuse causing fatigue and weakness. When the muscle are not used over a long time
Myalgia
Muscle pain and tenderness
Myolysis
Degeneration or breakdown of the muscle tissue
Polymyositis
Muscle disease in which there is inflammation and weakening of voluntary muscles in parts of the body. Affected typically closest to the trunk or torso
Sarcopenia
The loss of muscle mass, strength and function that come with aging
Ataxia
Lack of coordination of voluntary movement. Movement is unsteady and shaky and is typically caused by dysfunction in the brain
Contracture
Permanent tightening of fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin that occurs when non-elastic fibrous tissues replaces the normally elastic connective tissue
Muscle Spasm
Is a sudden, involuntary contraction of one or more muscles. A tic is a spasm that repeats often typically involving the eyelids and face
Cramp
Localized muscle spasm that is painful. Charley horse is a commonly name for cramp in the leg
Muscular dystrophy
(often referred to muscular dystrophies, or MD) group of over 30 genetic diseases causing progressive weakness and degeneration of the skeletal muscles. Nervous system is not typically involved
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)
Most common type of muscular dystrophy in children is DMD. Affects mainly boys with onset between the ages of 3 and 5 years. By age 12, with condition are unable to walk and later they develop breathing difficulties and heat disease
Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD)
Very similar to, but less severe than, Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Paralysis
Loss of both sensation and voluntary muscle movement because of damage to the nerves controlling the muscles
Myoparesis
Slight muscle paralysis or muscle weakness. Caused by a stroke or brain injury to the spinal cord
Hemiparesis
Slight muscle paralysis or muscle weakness occurring on only one side of the body. Caused by a stroke or brain injury or injury to the spinal cord
Hemiplegia
Total paralysis on one side of the body commonly caused by a stroke or brain injury or injury to the spinal cord
Paraplegia
Complete paralysis of the lower part of the body and legs typically caused by damage to the spinal cord
Quadriplegia
Complete paralysis of the upper extremities and body and lower extremities and body. Typically caused by spinal cord injury
Repetitive stress disorders (often called repetitive motion disorders)
Muscular conditions that result from repeated motions performed as one does normal work, daily activities, recreation movements etc.
Compartment syndrome
Compression of nerves and blood vessels caused by swelling within the enclosed space created by the fascia separating groups of muscles. Caused by trauma, tight bandages tight casts, or repetitive activities that cause compression
Overuse injuries
Tissue injuries that do not have time to rest and heal
Overuse tendinitis
Inflammation of the tendons caused by overuse or unusual use of a joint
Ankylosis
Loss or absence of mobility in a joint because of disease, injury, or a surgical procedure
Arthrosclerosis
Stiffness of the joint and is common in the elderly
Bursitis
Inflammation of a bursa, or cushioning sac in the joint, causing pain
Chondromalacia
Abnormal softening of the cartilage in a joint causing pain with movement
Sprian
Occurs when a ligament that connects bones together is stretched beyond its limits or torn
Synovitis
Inflammation that synovial membrane of a joint resulting in pain and swelling
Luxation
Also called dislocation. Occurs when there is total displacement of a bone from its joint
Subluxation
Dislocation is only partial displacement of a bone from its joint
Arthritis
Inflammation condition of a joint. There are over 100 types
Osteoarthitis
Associated with wear-and-tear because of overuse, sports or aging
Spondylosis
Commonly called spinal osteoarthritis and describes the loss of normal spinal structure and function
Gout
(gouty arthritis) Caused by deposits of uric acid crystals in a joint which can make the joint painful, red and warm. Begins in the big toe
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Chronic autoimmune disorder attacking not only the joint but other organs as well
Ankylosing spondylitis
Rheumatoid arthritis leading to inflammation of the joint between the vertebrae
Juvenile rheumatoid arthitis
Autoimmune disorder affects children age 16 or younger. Symptoms include pain, swelling at the joint, stiffness, rash, fever, fatigue and stunted growth
Herniated disk
Referred to as a slipped or ruptured disk. Intervertebral disk breaks apart resulting in pressure on the associated spinal nerve
Lumbago
Lower back pain or pain in the lumbar region of the spine.
Spondylolisthesis
Slipping movement of the body of one of the lower lumbar vertebrae on the vertebra or sacrum in the forward direction
Spina bifida
Congenital defect that occurs early in pregnancy. Spinal canal fails to close completely around the spinal cord resulting in a lack of protection
Scoliosis
Abnormal lateral, or sideways, curvature of the spine
Lordosis
Abnormal increase in the forward curvature of the lumbar spine. commonly called swayback
Kyphosis
Abnormal increase in the outward curvature if the thoracic spine if viewed from the side. Also called humpback or dowager’s hump
Craniostenosis
Problem with the formation of the skull where there is a premature closure of the cranial sutures after birth
Osteitis
Inflammation of a bone, also known as ostitis
Periostitis
Inflammation of the periosteum of the bone. Periosteum is the surrounding lining if the bone
Rickets
Deficiency of vitamin D required to maintain calcium and phosphorus levels in the bone resulting in problematic bone growth
Osteomalacia
Abnormal softening of bone in adults but can also affect children. Sometimes called adult rickets and is usually caused by deficiency of vitamin D, calcium and phosphate
Osteomyelitis
Inflammation of the bone marrow and adjacent bone caused by a bacterial infection often in another part of the body
Paget’s disease
Chronic bone disease characterized by an abnormal breakdown of the bone beginning in the pelvis, skull, spine, and legs
Osteoporosis
Loss of bone density that resulting in increased porosity of the bone often associated with aging
Osteopenia
Bone density that is thinner than normal. Higher risk of getting osteoporosis
Compression Fractures
Often seen in people with osteoporosis. Occurs in the vertebral column where the bone is pressed together resulting in loss height, pain and spinal curvature abnormalities
Colles’ fracture
Often seen in people with osteoporosis. Type of fracture occurs in the lower end of the radius often when people try to break a fall and land on their hands
Closed fracture
When the bone is broken but dose not puncture the skin
Open fracture
Not only is the bone is broken, but it breaks the skin forming a wound in the tissue
Comminuted fracture
Where the bone is crushed or splintered into small pieces
Greenstick fracture
When the bone is only partially broken. Typically in kids
Oblique fracture
When the break occurs across the bone at an angle
Transverse fracture
Occurs straight across the bone
Pathologic fracture
Occurs when the bone is wakened Because of disease or with excessive impact, overuse or injury
Spiral fracture
Occurs when the bone is twisted around its axis
Avulsed fracture
Occurs when part of the bone is chipped away at the end
Segmental fracture
Occurs when bone is broken into multiple pieces
Malignant
Becomes progressively worse and the risk of death is high
Primary bone cancer
Malignant tumor that originates in the bone
Secondary bone cancer
Refers to tumors that spread, or metastasized, to bone from other organs
Myeloma
Cancer occurs in blood-making cells found in the red bone marrow. Often fatal and causes pathologic fractures
Osteochondroma
Benign bony project covered with cartilage
Osteosarcoma
Bone cancer that begins in the cells that form the bones and is typically found in long bones often in the legs
Bone Marrow Transplants
(BMT) Treat leukemia and lymphomas which affect the bone marrow.
1 Destroying the cancer cells using high-intensity radiation and chemotherapy
2 Transfused healthy bone marrow
Allogenic bone marrow transplant
Uses healthy bone marrow cells from a compatible donor. Must be a perfect match to avoid rejection
Autologous bone marrow transplant
Use the patient’s own bone marrow cells which have been harvested, cleaned, treated and stored before the bone marrow is destroyed
Hyperpituitarism
Over secretion of the pituitary hormones
Acromegaly
Very rare, chronic disease where there is an abnormal enlargement of the hands and feet caused by to much secretion of growth hormone after puberty
Gigantism
Abnormal growth of the entire body that is caused by excessive secretion of growth hormones prior to puberty
Galactorrhea
Caused by an excess of prolactin causing the breasts to produce milk spontaneously without childbirth
Short stature
Condition is formerly called dwarfism and refers to a deficient secretion of growth hormone
Prolactinoma
Benign tumor in the pituitary causing the gland to produce too much prolactin. Infertility in women and erectile dysfunction in men
Pituitary adenoma
Tumor in the pituitary gland
Diabetes insipidus
Insufficient production if the antidiuretic hormone ADH or by the inability of the kidneys or respond to ADH resulting in too much fluid excreted by the kidneys
Pinealoma
Tumor of the pineal gland. It can disrupt the production of melatonin causing insomnia and disruption of the circadian rhythms
Hyperthyriodism
Condition is caused by an overproduction of thyroid hormones leading to increased metabolic rate, sweating, nervousness, and weight loss
Grave’s disease
The immune system attacks the thyroid gland causing it to make excessive thyroid hormone
Hashimoto’s disease
Autoimmune disease where the body’s own antibodies attack and destory the cells of the thyroid dland leading to hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism
Deficiency of thyroid secretion causing fatigue, depression, sensitivity to cold and low metabolic rate
Cretinism
Congenital form of hypothyroidism resulting in arrested physical and mental development
Myxedema
Also called adult hypothyroidism and results from an extreme deficiency of thyroid hormone secretion
Hyperparathroidism
Overproduction of the parathyroid hormone causing hypercalcemia
Hypoparathyroidism
Condition caused by an insufficient or even absent secretion of the parathyroid hormone causing hypocalcemia
Thymitis
Inflammation of the thymus gland
Insulinoma
Benign tumor causes hypoglycemia by secreting excess insulin
Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas often caused by long-term alcoholism
Hyperglycemia
Abnormal low concentration of glucose in the blood
Polydipsia
Excessive thirst
Polyphagia
Excessive hunger
Polyuria
Excessive urination
Hyperinsulinism
Excessive secretion if insulin into the bloodstream
Type 1 Diabetes
(juvenile inset diabetes) Autoimmune insulin deficiency disorder caused by destruction of the pancreatic islet beta cells resulting in insulin deficiency
Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin resistance disorder meaning that insulin is produced by the pancreas but the body dose not use it effectively
Latent autoimmune diabetes
Condition is known at Type 1.5 diabetes where type 1 diabetes develops in adults
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes occurs during some pregnancies and typically disappears
Addison’s disease
Condition occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough of the hormones cortisol or aldosterone. Side effects fatigue and muscle weakness, loss of appetite, low blood pressure and weight loss
Adrenalitis
Inflammation of the adrenal glands
Aldosteronism
Abnormal imbalance of electrolytes caused by excessive secretion of aldosterone
Conn’s syndrome
(KON) Disorder of the adrenal is caused by excessive production of aldosterone causing weakness, cramps and convulsions
Cushing’s syndrome
Hypercortisolism caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol from overproduction of cortisol or prolonged use of corticosteroids
Hypergonadism
Caused by excessive secretion of hormones by the sex glands
Hypogonadism
Caused by a deficient secretion of hormones by the sex glands
Congenital heart defects
Structural abnormalities caused by the failure of the heart to develop normally before birth
Congenital
Present at birth
Atherosclerosis
Hardening and narrowing of the arteries from the buildup of cholesterol plaque on the interior walls of the arteries
Coronary artery disease
(CAD), coronary heat disease CHD or ischemic heart disease. Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries
Ischemia
Condition where there is an insufficient supply of oxygen in the tissues due to restricted blood flow to a part of the body
Angina
Also angina pectoris. Severe episodes of chest pain due to inadequate blood flow to the myocardium or heart muscle
Myocardial Infarction
Heart attack by occlusion or blockage of one more coronary arteries caused by plaque buildup
Congestive heart failure
(CHF) Occurs mostly in the elderly after the heart has been weakened or damaged by other conditions or diseases
Left-sided heart failure
Heart fails on the left side, causes an accumulation of fluid in the lungs called pulmonary edema
Right-sided heart failure
Heart fails on the right side, causes fluid to build up throughout the rest of the body causing edema first in the feet and legs and then worsening to other parts of the body
Cardiomegaly
Abnormal enlargement of the heart at it tries to compensate for its decreased pumping ability
Carditis
Inflammation of the heart.
Endocarditis
Inflammation of the endocardium or inner lining of the heart. Bacterial endocarditis cause by bacteria
Pericarditis
Inflammation of the pericardium. Causes a fluid buildup in the pericardial sec which restricts movement of the heart and its ability to pump blood to the body
Myocarditis
Inflammation of the heart muscle itself or myocardium. Often seen as a complication of a viral infection
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Disease of the heart muscle that causes the heart to become enlarged and to pump in a weaker fashion
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Disease involves abnormal thickening of the heart muscle making it harder for the heart to pump
Restrictive cardiomyopthy
Heart muscle becoming stiff and less flexible, preventing expansion and filling with blood between heart contraction
Arrhythmia
Loss of normal rhythm of the heartbeat. Can be a fatal event and temporary
Asystole
Also called a flat line. A medical provider to certify death
Cardiac arrest
Which the heart abruptly stops beating, preventing blood from being pumped through the body
Sudden cardiac death
Treatment of cardiac arrest is not provided within a few minutes
Heart block
Arrhythmia caused by the electrical moving through the heart being partially or completely blocked from reaching the ventricles
Bradycardia
Abnormal slow resting heart rate
Tachycardia
Abnormal fast resting heart rate
Ventricular fibrillation
Rapid, irregular, and useless contraction of the ventricles. Heart muscle basically quivers and little blood is pumped through the body
Palpitation
Pounding or racing heartbeat with or without irregularity in rhythm
Atrial fibrillation
Tachycardia resulting from abnormal contractions of the atria. Atria contracts rapid, uncontrolled twitching of the muscular heart wall
Vasculitis
Inflammation of a blood vessel.
Arteritis
Inflammation of the artery
Angiostenosis
Abnormal narrowing of a blood vessel
Hemangioma
Benign tumor formed by blood and lymph vessels. Considered to be a birthmark
Hypoperfusion
Insufficient perfusion or blood flow, through a body part or organ
Aneurysm
Weak spot in an artery. Weak spot begins to fill up with blood causing the artery to balloon out due to blood pressure. Risk of this area bursting which can be fatal
Arteriostenosis
Narrowing of an artery diminishing the blood flow to the area
Venous
Insufficient venous circulation because of partial blockage in a vein or leaking though vein valves
Phlebitis
Inflammation of a vein
Thrombophlebitis
Vein contains a clot (thrombus) blocking the flow of blood
Thrombosis
Blood clot in the vessel.
Coronary thrombosis
Clot in the coronary artery
Deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein c
Embolism
Sudden blockage of a blood vessel by either air (air embolism) or fat (fat embolism)
Peripheral vascular disease
Disorders of blood vessels include those of located outside of the heart and brain and include those of legs, arms, stomach and kidneys
Raynaud’s disease
Peripheral arterial occlusive disease where cold or stress causes intermittent attacks
Hemochromatosis
Genetic disorder is when the intestines absorb too much iron.
Leukopenia
Decrease in the number of white blood cells in the blood
Polycythemia
Abnormal increase in red blood cells in the blood because the bone marrow produces too much
Sepsis
Bacterial, viral or other pathogenic infection of the blood. Also called blood poisoning
Thrombocytopenia
Condition in which there is an abnormally small number of platelets in the blood
Hemorrhage
Loss of a significant amount of blood in a short time
Thrombocytosis
Abnormal increase in platelets in the blood
Hyperlipidemia
Describes elevated cholesterol and fatty substances in the blood
Leukemia
Type of blood cancer where there is a progressive increase in the number of abnormal white blood cells produced by blood-forming tissues and other organs and in the blood
Anemia
Abnormally low number of the red blood cells in the blood
Hypertension
Abnormally high blood pressure. 180/120 mmHg or greater levels is life-threatening
Hypotension
Abnormally low blood pressure. 90/60 mmHg
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
(COPD) Lung diseases where airflow in the bronchial structures is obstructed. COPD is often result of smoking
Chronic bronchitis
Airways become inflamed because of continued exposure to some type of irritant. Cells produce too much mucus and the walls of the air passage thicken, making it difficult to breath as well as coughing
Emphysema
Long-term loss of lung function that progresses over time. Decrease in the number of alveoli and progressive destruction of the walls of the alveoli resulting in rapid, shallow and difficult breathing
Asthma
Chronic inflammation disease of the bronchial tubes where the airway becomes inflamed and the bronchioles go into spasms, significantly reducing the airway
Allergic rhinitis
Allergy or an allergic reaction to an airborne allergen, resulting in increased mucus and inflammation of the lining of the nose
Croup
Acute respiratory infection in children and infants. Caused by blockage of the air passages upon inhalation
Diphtheria
Bacterial infection of the throat and upper respiratory tract. Infection produces toxins that damage the heart muscle and peripheral nervous system
Influenza
Flu and is caused by a viral infection leading to respiratory inflammation, fever, chills and muscle pain
Pertussis
Also called whooping cough. Bacterial infection of the upper respiratory system leading to cough, breathlessness, and noisy inhalation
Sinusitis
Inflammation of the sinuses
Epistasis
Nose bleed
Pharyngitis
Inflammation of the pharynx or a sore throat
Laryngitis
Inflammation of the larynx and is often associated with loss of voice
Anoxia
Absence of oxygen from the body’s tissues and organs even though there is sufficient flow of blood
Hypoxia
Condition of having too little oxygen levels in the body’s tissues and organs. Altitude hypoxia is referred to as altitude sickness
Asphyxia
Loss of consciousness that occurs when the body cannot get the oxygen it needs to function.
Cyanosis
Bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes caused by a lack of sufficient oxygen in the blood
Hypercapnia
Abnormal buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood
Hypoxemia
Low oxygen levels in the blood
Respiratory failure
Condition in which the level of oxygen in the blood becomes dangerously low or the level of carbon dioxide becomes dangerously high
Sleep apnea
Condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep for periods long enough cause a measurable decrease in blood oxygen levels
Obstructive sleep apnea
(OSA) Caused by the muscles at the back if the throat relaxing and narrowing the airways
Snoring
Symptom of sleep apnea and refers to noisy breathing caused by vibration of the soft palate
Pneumoconiosis
Fibrosis of the lung tissues caused by dust in the lungs from the environment or person’s occupation
Asbestosis
Caused by asbestos particles in the lungs from working or living in an environment with asbestos
Silicosis
Condition is caused by breathing in silica dust and specific occupations
Pleurisy
Also called pleuritis. Inflammation of the membranes covering the lungs and pleural cavity
Hemothorax
Collection of blood in the pleural cavity typically caused by chest trauma
Acute respiratory distress syndrome
(ARDS) Lungs condition is caused by trauma, pneumonia, smoking, inhaled vomit or sepsis. Lungs become inflamed and fluid fills the alveoli
Pulmonary edema
Refers to an accumulation of fluid in the lung tissues and alveoli leading to swelling
Pulmonary embolism
Sudden blockage of a pulmonary artery by an embolus or a foreign body that has moved from another part of the body through the vessel
Tuberculosis
Infections disease caused by a specific bacterium leading to pleurisy and coughing up blood
Pneumonia
Inflammation of the lungs where the alveoli and air passages fill with pus and other fluids
Sudden infant death syndrome
(SIDS) Sudden and unexplainable death of an apparently healthy sleeping infant typically between 2 to 6 months old
Hypersplenism
Overactive spleen. It removes the blood cells too early and quickly
Splenomegaly
Larger-than-normal spleen. Caused by malaria, Hodgkin’s disease, leukemia, heart failure, cirrhosis, tumors, infections, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis and sickle cell disease
Lymohedema
Selling of the tissues because of an abnormal accumlation of lymph fluid within the tissues
Allergy
Also called hypersensitivity. Overreaction by the body to the particular allergen or the substance that produces the allergic reaction
Localized
Redness, itching or burning where the skin has come into contact with the allergen
Systemic
Causing a mild to severe and potentially fatal reaction or anaphylactic shock
Autoimmune disorder or disease
Any disease characterized by a condition in which the immune system produces antibodies against its own tissues
Immunodeficiency disorder
Condition in which the immune response is compromised, meaning that it is not functioning at all or weakened
Severe combined immunodeficiency
(SCID) Inherited condition in which the malfunctioning immune system causes an increased susceptibility to infection and failure to thrive
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus. Bloodborne infection where the virus damages or kill the T cells of the immune system
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
(AIDS) Advanced stage of an HIV infection
Lymohadenitis
Also called swollen glands and refers to an inflammation of the lymph nodes or lymph glands
Lymphadenopathy
Any disease process that impacts a lymph node or nodes
Lymphangioma
Benign tumor for by an abnormal collection of lymphatic vessels because of a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system
Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils leading to swollen tonsils, sore throat, difficulty swallowing tender lymph nodes in the neck and potentially
Cellulitis
Bacterial infection of the hair follicles
Folliculitis
Infection of the hair follicles causing red, swollen bumps similar to pimples
Impetigo
Infection cause oozing sores, typically in children
Food poisoning
Numerous bacteria that cause different types of foodborne illnesses
Sexually transmitted diseases
(STDs) Bacteria can also cause many different infections
Aphthous ulcers
Also called canker sores or mouth ulcers. Gray-white pits with a red border in the mouth tissue often associated with stress, certain types of foods, for fever
Cheilosis
Disorder of the lips. Crack-like sores appear at the mouth
Herpes labialis
Also called fever blister or cold sore and is caused by the oral herpes simplex virus type 1
Oral thrush
Fungal infection of the oral area causing symptoms of creamy white lesions on the tongue or inner cheeks most commonly in infants, older adults with weakened immune systems or those taking a lot of antibiotics
Xerostomia
Also called dry mouth. Caused by the lack of saliva by the salivary glands because of medications or radiation
Cleft palate
Failure of the palate to close during the early development of the fetus creating an opening that may involve the upper lip, hard palate and soft palate
Bruxism
Involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth usually occurring during sleep
Dental caries
Also called tooth decay or cavity. Infections disease caused by bacteria that destroys the dentin and enamel of the tooth
Dental plaque
Soft deposits in areas of the teeth near the gums and between the teeth. Consists of bacteria and bacteria by-products and leads to dental caries
Halitosis
Bad breath and refers to an unpleasant order in the mouth. caused by dental diseases or a respiratory or gastric disorder
Periodontal disease
Periodonittis and refers to an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the teeth eventually involving the gums and bones
Gingivitis
Earliest stage of periodontal disease and refers to an inflammation of the gums
Dyshagia
Difficulty in swallowing
Eosinophilic esophagitis
Immune system disease where eosinophils builds up in the esophagus. Allergy to certain foods
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease. Upward inflow of acid from the stomach in to the esophagus
Esophageal stricture
Scar tissue or other damage of the esophagus causing swallowing difficulties
Pyrosis
Also called heartburn. Burning sensation caused by the return of acidic stomach contents in to the esophagus
Hiatal hernia
Anatomical abnormality where a portion of the stomach protrudes upward into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm
Gastritis
Inflammation of the stomach lining caused by bacteria
Gastroenteritis
Inflammation of the mucous membrane lining of the stomach and intestines
Gastroparsis
Condition in which muscles in the stomach slow down and work poorly or not work at all. Prevents the stomach from emptying normally
Gastrorrhea
Excessive secretion of gastric juice or mucus in the stomach
Peptic ulcers
Sores that affect the mucous membranes of the digestive system. Gastric ulcer is peptic ulcers in the stomach
Anorexia
Eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight and overwhelming fear of and obsession about gaining weight
Bulimia
Emotional disorder involves distortion body image and obsession with losing weight. Patients experience bouts of overeating followed by depression and self-induced vomiting, purging or fasting
Dehydration
Fluid loss that exceeds fluid intake disrupting the body’s normal electrolyte balance
Cachexia
Physical wasting due to loss of weight and muscle mass. Advanced cancer or AIDS
Malnutrition
Lack of proper food or nutrients because of a shortage of food or poor eating habits. Also caused by the inability of the body to digest, absorb or distribute nutrients
Malabsorption
Small intestine cannot absorb nutrients from food as it passes through the digestive tract
Obesity
Excessive accumulation of fat in the body
Dyspepsia
Indigestion or pain or discomfort in digestion
Emesis
Vomiting or reflex ejection of the stomach contents outward through the mouth
Hematemesis
Vomiting blood
Hyperemesis
Extreme, persistent vomiting causing a risk for dehydration
Nausea
Urge to vomit
Regurgitation
Return of swallowed food back in to the mouth
Eructation
Act of belching or raising gas orally from the stomach
Aerophagia
Excessive swallowing of air while eating or drinking. Cause of gas in stomach
Celiac disease
Hereditary autoimmune disorder leading to a severe reaction to foods containing gluten, type of protein found in grains
Gluten intolerance
Caused by an allergy to wheat
Food allergy
Immune system reaction occurs after eating a certain food
Lactose intolerance
Inability to digest dairy products because of the absence of the enzyme lactose needed to metabolize the sugar, lactose, found in milk and dairy products
Diverticulosis
Chronic presence of an abnormal number of diverticula in the colon
Diverticulitis
Diverticulosis sometimes develops into diverticulitis which is the inflammation of infection the or more diverticulum in the colon
Enteritis
Inflammation of the small intestine caused by eating or drinking something contaminated with a pathogen, typically viral or bacterial
Ischemic colitis
Occurs when a part of the large intestine is partially or completely deprived of blood leading to inflammation and permanent damage in that area
Ileus
Partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine
Irritable bowel syndrome
(IBS) Condition leads to intermittent cramping and abdominal pain.
Inflammatory bowel disease
(IBD) Inflammation and swelling in the intestines. Both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are inflammation bowel diseases
Ulcerative colitis
Chronic condition causes episodes of inflammation in the rectum and large intestine casing ulcers and irritation
Intestinal obstructions
Partial or compete blockage of the small or large intestine caused by a physical obstruction
Inguinal hernia
Protrusion of a small loop of bowel through a weak place in the lower abdominal wall or groin
Dysentery
Bacterial infection spread through food or water contaminated with human feces
E. coli
Infection is caused by the bacterium Escherichia coli, transmitted through contaminated foods that have not been adequately cooked
Bowel incontinence
Inability to control the excretion of feces
Constipation
Bowel movement fewer than three times per week. Stools are usually hard, dry, small, and difficult to eliminate
Diarrhea
Abnormally frequent flow of loose or watery stools that can lead to dehydration
Hemorrhoids
Occur when a cluster of veins, muscles and tissues slip near or through an anal opening
Ascites
Abnormal accumulation of serous fluid in the peritoneal cavity resulting in severe liver disease creating pressure in the liver’s blood vessels
Hepatomegaly
Abnormally large liver
Jaundice
Yellow discoloration in the skin, mucous membranes and eyes caused by abnormally large amounts of bilirubin in the blood
Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver typically caused by a viral infection
Cirrhosis
Chronic degenerative disease of the liver
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
NAFLD Accumulation of fat in the liver of people who do not drink large amounts of alcohol
Cholangitis
Acute inflammation of the bile duct characterized by pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, fever, and jaundice
Cholecystitis
Inflammation of the gallbladder.
Gallstones
Termed cholelith and refer to a hard deposit formed in the gallbladder and bile ducts due to concentration of bile components
Cholelithiasis
Presence of gallstones in the gallbladder or bile ducts
Nephropathy
Any disease of the kidney including degenerative conditions and inflammation conditions
Diabetic nephropathy
Kidney disease resulting from late-stage diabetes mellitus
Renal failure
Also called kidney failure. Inability of one or both kidneys to function. Body cannot replace damaged nephrons
Uremia
Uremic poisoning or a toxic condition resulting from renal failure
Acute renal failure
Refers to a sudden onset of renal failure caused by a sudden drop in blood volume or blood pressure to the kidneys
Chronic kidney disease
Progressive loss of renal function over months or years
End-stage renal disease
(ESRD) Final stage of chronic kidney disease and is fatal unless dialysis replaces the normal functions of the kidneys or the kidneys are replaced via a transplant
Nephrosis
Group of conditions in which too much protein is lost through the urine. Caused by damage to the glomeruli
Edema
Excessive fluid accumulation in body tissue and is a common symptom of nephrotic syndrome and other kidney disease
Hyperproteinuria
Abnormally high concentration of protein in the urineH
Hypoproteinemia
Abnormally low concentration of protein in the blood
Hydronephrosis
Dilation or swelling of one or both kidneys. Caused by the backing up of urine by an obstruction, such as a kidney stone, or by the narrowing of the ureter
Nephritis
Inflammation of the kidney
Glomerulonephritis
Nephritis caused by inflammation of the glomeruli causing red blood cells and proteins to leak into the urine
Polycystic kidney disease
Genetic disorder where the growth of many fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. Cysts replace the kidney mass reducing the kidney function
Renal colic
Acute pain in the kidney area causing blockage during the passage of a kid
Wilms tumor
Rare malignant tumor of the occurring in children
Kidney stone
Abnormal mineral deposit has formed within the kidney. Called a calculus. Vary in side from small sand-like granules to very large so that they can become lodged and cause severe pain
Nephrolithiasis
Presence of stones in the kidney. Travel with the flow of urine and can become lodged at any place in the path from the kidney through the urethra
Nephrolith
Stone in the kidney
Ureterolith
Stone in the ureter
Cystolith
Stone in the urinary bladder
Hydroureter
Distension or swelling of the ureter with urine that is prevented from flowing out due to a blockage
Ureterectasis
Distension or swelling of a ureter because of congenital abnormalities
Ureterorrhagia
Discharge of blood from the ureter
Cystocele
Prolapsed bladder. Hernia of the bladder through the vaginal wall and is sometimes a result of pregnancy and childbirth
Interstitial cystitis
Chronic inflammation within the walls of the bladder
Cystalgia
Pain in the bladder
Vesicoreteral reflux
Backward flow of urine into the ureters from the bladder
Neurogenic bladder
Urinary condition in which there is interference with the normal nerve pathway that control urination. Nerve pathway interference can prevent the bladder from emptying at all or from emptying completely. Result is overflow leakage because of urinary retention
Benign prostatic hyperplasia
Also called enlarged prostate. Referred to an enlargement of the prostate gland occurring mainly in man over 50
Prostatism
Disorder resulting from the compression or abstraction of the urethra because of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Prostate cancer
One of the most common cancers in man. Can grow very slowly with on symptoms or grow aggressively and spread to other parts of the body
Prostatitis
Group of disorders where there is in inflammation of the prostate gland
Cystitis
Inflammation of the bladder
Pyelonephritis
Inflammation of both the renal pelvis and kidney. Caused by a bacterial infection that spreads upward from the bladder
Urethritis
Inflammation of the urethra
Anuria
Term describing the absence of urine formation by the kidneys
Diuresis
Increased output of urine
Dysuria
Difficult or painful urination
Enuresis
Involuntary discharge of urine
Nocturnal enuresis
Urinary incontinence during sleep. Also called bed-wetting
Nocturia
Frequent and excessive urination during night
Oliguria
Scanty urination often caused by dehydration, renal failure or perhaps an obstruction of the tract
Polyuria
Excessive urination. Associated with diabetes
Urinary hesitancy
Difficulty in starting a urinary stream
Urinary retention
or ischuria. Inability to completely empty the bladder during urination
Incontinence
Inability to control the excretion of urinary. Overflow incontinence is a continuous leaking from the bladder because it is full or it has not completely emptied
Overactive bladder
Occurs when the muscles of the bladder contract involuntarily even if the bladder not full
Balanitis
Inflammation of the glans penis typically caused by poor hygiene in men who have not foreskin removed by circumcision
Phimosis
Narrowing of the opening of the foreskin so that it cannot be pulled back to exposed the glans penis
Erectile dysfunction
(ED) ED is impotence. Inability of the male to achieve or maintain a penile erection
Peyronie’s disease
Also called penlie curvature. Penis that is bent or curved during erection
Priapism
Painful erection that lasts for four hours or more but is not accompanied by sexual excitement and does not go away after sexual stimulation has ended
Premature ejaculation
Male reaches climax too soon, either before or shortly after penetration of the female
Male reaches climax too soon, either before or shortly after penetration of the female
Androgen Decline in the Aging Male (ADAM). Decrease of the male hormone testosterone beginning typically in the late 40s and progressing gradually over the next decades
Cryptorchidism
Medical term for an undescended testicle. Defect in which one or both of the testicles fail to descend into their normal position in the scrotum
Anorchism
Congenital absence of one or both testicles
Epidiymitis
Inflammation of the epididymis caused by an infection from the urethra or bladder
Spermatocele
Cyst that develops in the epididymis and if filled with a milky fluid containing sperm
Testicular cancer
Cancer begins in the testicles and is the most common cancer in American between age of 15-35
Testicular torsion
Sharp pain in the scrotum caused by twisting of the vas deferens and blood vessels leading into the testicles
Testitis
Inflammation of one or both testicles
Varicocele
Knot of widening varicose veins in one side if the scrotum
Hydrocele
Fluid-filled sac in the scrotum
Azoospermia
Absence of sperm in the semen
Oligospermia
Sperm count of below 20 million/ml
Hematospermia
Presence of blood in the seminal fluid
Chlamydia
Infection is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis
Bacterial vaginosis
(BV) Condition in females in which there is an abnormal overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina
Genital herpes
STD is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 or 2
Genital wards
Human papillomaviruses (HPV). Infection affects the male urethra and the female external genitalia, cervix and vagina.
Gonorrhea
STD is caused by the bacterium Neisseria
Human Immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) STD is transmitted through exposure to infected body fluids, especially through sexual intercourse with an infected partner
Syphilis
STD is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum
Trichomoniasis
STD is an infection caused by the parasite Treponemas vaginalis
Anovulation
Absence of ovulation when be normally expected
Oophoritis
Inflammation of an ovary
Pelvic inflammatory disease
(PID) Inflammation of the female reproductive organs not associated with pregnancy or surgery
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Condition is caused by a hormonal imbalance
Pyosalpinx
Accumulation of pus in one the fallopian tubes
Salpingitis
Inflammation of a fallopian tube
Ovarian cancer
Cancer begins in the cells of the ovaries but metastasize or spread to other body tissues and organs
Endometriosis
Painful condition in which tissue that is similar to the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus
Endometrial cancer
Cancer begins in the lining of the uterus
Uterine fibroids
Benign tumors composed of muscle and fibrous tissue developing in the wall of the uterus
Uterine prolapse
Pelvic floor hernia where the uterus slides too low in the pelvic cavity and sages into the vagina
Cervicitis
Inflammation of the cervix typically caused by an infection
Endocervicitis
Inflammation of the mucous membrane lining of the cervix
Cervical dysplasia
Presence of precancerous changes in cells of the inner lining of the cervix
Cervical cancer
Squamous cell cancer by human papillmaviruses (HPV).
Vaginitis
Inflammation of the lining of the vagina caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi
Vaginal atrophy
Decrease in the lubrication and elasticity of the vagina typically caused by changes in hormones with aging and menopause
Vaginal candidiasis
Medical term for a yeast infection. Caused by the fungus Candida albicans
Vaginismus
Involuntary spasms of the pelvic floor muscles closing off the vagina
Colporrhexis
Tearing or laceration of the vaginal wall
Dyspareunia
Pain during sexual intercourse
Leukorrhea
Profuse, whitish mucus discharge from he vagina and possibly uterus
Pruritus vulvae
Severe itching of the external female genitalia
Vulvitis
Inflammation of the vulva
Mastitis
Breast infection caused by bacteria. Most frequently occurs during breastfeeding
Mastalgia
Pain in the the breast
Galactorrhea
Production of breast milk by a woman who is not breastfeeding
Fibrocystic breast disease
Where there are one or more benign cysts in the breast typically in older women
Fibroadenoma
Presence of a round, firm mass caused by excess growth of glandular and connective tissue in the breast
Breast cancer
Formation of cancerous cells in the breast tissue
Amenorrhea
Absence of a menstrual period for 90 days or more.
Dysmenorrhea
Pain caused by uterine cramps during the menstrual period
Hypermenorrhea
Excessive amount of menstrual flow over a period of more than seven days
Hypomenorrhea
Abnormally small amount of menstrual flow during a shortened menstrual period
Menometrorrhagia
Excessive uterine bleeding both during the menstrual cycle and at other times
Metrorrhagea
Uterine bleeding between menstrual cycles
Oligomenorrhea
Infrequent or very light menstruation
Polymenorrhea
Menstrual cycle that is more frequent than normal
Premenstrual syndrome
Symptoms experienced by many women within the two-week period before menstruation
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
(PMDD) Severe emotional and physical symptoms linked to the menstrual cycle
Premature syndrome
Ovaries cease functioning before the age of 40
Ectopic pregnancy
Where the fertilized egg is implanted and begins to develop outside of the uterus
Abortion
Interruption or termination of pregnancy before the fetus is viable
Gestational diabetes mellitus
Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy
Infertility
Inability of a couple to become pregnant after 1 year of regular, unprotected intercourse. Also inability of the woman to carry a pregnancy to a live birth
Preeclampsia
Pregnancy complication where the mother develops hypertension, or high blood pressure
Eclampsia
Serious form of preeclampsia where the blood pressure is severely high causing convulsions and coma
HELLP syndrome
Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count related to preeclampsia or eclampsia
Abruptio placentae
When the placenta separates from the uterine wall before childbirth
Breech presentation
Presentation of the fetus with the buttocks or feet of the fetus positioned to enter the birth canal first instead if the head
Placenta previa
Abnormal implantation of the placenta in the lower portion of the uterus
Premature infant
Preemie is a fetus borne before the 37th week of gestaion
Stillbirth
Birth of a fetus that died before or during delivery
Postpartum depression
Mothers with this mood disorder feel sadness and loss of pleasure in normal activities shortly after giving birth
Cephalagia
Headache or pain in the head
Migraine headache
Severe headache that causes throbbing pain typically on one side of the head. Mainly affects women
Cluster headaches
Painful headaches affect one side of the head. Patients may experience excessive tearing or nasal congestion. Mainly affects men
Encephalocele
Type of headache is the result of a herniation of the brain tissue through a gap in the skill
Meningocele
Herniation of the meninges of the brain and spinal cord. Caused by a virus or bacteria
Meningioma
Slow-growing tumor in the meninges
Cognitive impairment
Mental activities of thinking, learning, and memory. Typically Impacts recent memory but can affect long term memory
Dementia
Slowly progressive decline in mental abilities, thinking, judgment and memory
Encephalitis
Inflammation of the brain caused by an infection of a virus or bacteria
Rexe’s Syndrome
Disorder occurs in children that often follows a viral illness where the child was treated with aspirin
Tetanus
Also called lockjaw. Infection is caused by a toxi produced by the tetanus bacteria
Tourette syndrome
Experience involuntary grunts, utterances and tics, including saying obscenities
Neurodegenerative disease
Group of disorders where there is a progressive loss of structure and/or functions of the neurons
Alzheimer’s disease
Disease involves parts of the brain that are involved in throught, language, and memory
Parkinson’s disease
Degenerative disease of the central nervous disorder.
Lewy body dementia
Type of dementia that occurs when abnormal proteins interfere with call function in the brian
Huntington’s disease
Progressive disorder caused by a detective gene
Amyotrophic lateral selerosis
(ALS) Rapidly progressive neurological disease attacks the nerve cells that control the voluntary muscles
Concussion
Violent shaking or jarring of the brain where the brain is slammed against the side of the skull resulting in damage
Cerebral contusion
Bruising of the brain tissue as a result of a brain injury
Cranial hematoma
Collection of blood trapped in the brain tissue
Amnesia
Memory disturbance where patients cannot recall past experiences
Traumatic brain injury
Damage caused by a blow to the head or penetrating head injury
Shaken baby syndrome
When a child is violently shaken causing a brain injury
Cerebral Palsy
Damage that affects the cerebrum
Cerebrovascular accident
(CVA) Also called stroke. Damage to the brain when blood flow is disrupted because the vessel is either blocked or has ruptured
Ischemic stroke
Common type in older people. Occurs when the flow of blood to the brain is blocked by the narrowing of the carotid artery
Thrombotic strokes
When a blood clot forms in the carotid artery and blocks it
When a blood clot forms in the carotid artery and blocks it
When a clot from somewhere else in the body travels through the blood steam and lodges in a brain artery
Hemorrhagic stroke
Brain bleed and occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or when an aneurysm with h the brain ruptures
Level of consciousness
(LOC) Person’s response to arousal and stimulus
Altered levels of consciousness
(ALOC) Decrease in consciousness caused by injury, disease, or substances ( medications, drugs, alcohol, poisons, etc )
Conscious
State of being awake, alert, aware and responding appropriately
Unconscious
State of being unaware and unable to respond to any stimuli
Lethargy
Lowered level of consciousness
Stupor
Unresponsive state where a person can be aroused only briefly with vigorous and repeated attempts
Syncope
Also called fainting. Referss to a brief loss of consciousness caused by decreased flow of blood to the brain
Coma
Deep state of unconsciousness where there is no spontaneous eye movement, no response to painful stimuli and no speech
Persistent vegetative state
Coma where the patient exhibits alternating sleep and wake cycles
Brain dead
When the brain has ceased functioning. Vital functions may sometimes be maintained artificially
Delirium
Condition of confusion, disorientation, dissordered thinking and memory, agitation and hallucination
Brain tumor
Abnormal growth inside the skull
Benign brain tumor
Tumor dose not invade the tissue. In the brain, however, as the tumor grows, it can damage the brain tissue by placing pressure against the tissue
Malignant brain tumor
Tumor destroys brain tissue. It can either initiate in the brain or metastasize (spread) to the brain from another area of the body
Myelitis
Inflammation of the spinal cord
Myelosis
Tumor of the spinal cord
Poliomyelitis
Also called polio. Contagious viral infection of the brainstem and spinal cord that can lead to paralysis. Prevented through vaccination
Spinal cord injuries
Weakness or paralysis of the areas supported from the damage area of the cord
Radiculitis
Also called Pinched nerve. Inflammation of the root of a spinal nerve that leads to pain and numbness radiating down the affected limb
Multiple sclerosis
(MS) Progressive autoimmune disorder causes demyelination of the myelin sheath
Bell’s palsy
Temporary paralysis of the 7th cranial nerve leading to face paralysis. Affects one side
Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Inflammation of the myelin sheath of peripheral nerves where there is progressive muscle weakness leading to temporary paralysis
Neuritis
Inflammation of a nerve
Sciatica
Inflammation of the sciatic nerve
Trigeminal neuralgia
Severe, intense Pain because of inflammation of the 5th cranial nerve
Tonic-clonic seizure
Referred to as a grand mal seizure. Body becomes rigid and jerks uncontrollably
Absence seizures
Referred to as a petit mal seizure. Patients experience a brief disturbance of brain function where there is loss of awareness
