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Definitions C Flashcards

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USMLE® Step 1 flashcards
1
Q

Answer

A

Question

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2
Q

calcium channel blocker agents

A

Medications that cause the heart and blood vessels to relax by decreasing the movement of calcium into the cells of these structures. This relaxation reduces the workload of the heart by increasing the supply of blood and oxygen. Some calcium channel blocking agents are used to treat hypertension or to relieve and control angina.

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3
Q

calciuria

A

The presence of calcium in the urine. Abnormally high levels can be diagnostic for hyperparathyroidism. Lower-than-normal levels can indicate osteomalacia.

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4
Q

callus

A

A bulging deposit that forms around the area of the break in a bone; also a thickening of the skin that is caused by repeated rubbing.

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5
Q

cancer

A

A class of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled division of cells and the ability of these cells to invade other tissues, either by invasion though direct growth into adjacent tissue or by spreading into distant sites by metastasizing.

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6
Q

candidiasis

A

A yeast infection.

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7
Q

capillary hemangioma

A

A soft, raised, pink, or red vascular birthmark. A hemangioma is a benign tissue mass made up of newly formed small blood vessels that in birthmarks are visible through the skin.

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8
Q

capillary puncture

A

Technique used to obtain a small amount of blood for a blood test. Named for where it is performed, a capillary puncture is usually known as a finger, heel, or an earlobe stick.

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9
Q

capsule endoscopy

A

The use of a tiny video camera in a capsule that the patient swallows. For approximately eight hours, as it passes through the small intestine, this camera transmits images of the small intestine. The images are detectable by sensor devices attached to the patient?s abdomen and transmitted to a data recorder worn on the patient?s belt.

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10
Q

carbuncle

A

A cluster of connected furuncles (boils).

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11
Q

carcinoma

A

A malignant tumor that occurs in epithelial tissue. Epithelial tissue forms the protective covering for all of the internal and external surfaces of the body. Carcinomas tend to infiltrate and produce metastases new cancer sites) that can affect any organ or part of the body.

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12
Q

carcinoma in situ

A

A malignant tumor in its original position that has not yet disturbed or invaded the surrounding tissues.

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13
Q

cardiac arrest

A

An event in which the heart abruptly stops beating or develops an arrhythmia that prevents it from pumping blood effectively.

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14
Q

cardiac catheterization

A

A diagnostic procedure in which a catheter is passed into a vein or artery and guided into the heart. When the catheter is in place, a contrast medium is introduced to produce an angiogram to determine how well the heart is working. This procedure is also used during treatment.

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15
Q

cardiocentesis

A

The puncture of a chamber of the heart for diagnosis or therapy. Also known as cardiopuncture.

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16
Q

cardiomegaly

A

Abnormal enlargement of the heart, that is frequently associated with heart failure as the heart enlarges in an effort to compensate for its decreased pumping ability.

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17
Q

cardiomyopathy

A

All diseases of the heart muscles.

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18
Q

cardioplegia

A

Paralysis of the heart muscle. Although this can be caused by a direct blow or trauma, it is more commonly induced intentionally to perform complicated surgery.

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19
Q

cardiopulmonary resuscitation

A

An emergency procedure for life support consisting of artificial respiration and manual external cardiac compression. Commonly known as CPR.

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20
Q

carditis

A

An inflammation of the heart.

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21
Q

carotdid endarterectomy

A

Surgical removal of the lining of a portion of a clogged carotid artery leading to the brain. This procedure is performed to reduce the risk of a stroke caused by a disruption of the blood flow to the brain.

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22
Q

carotid ultrasonography

A

An ultrasound study of the carotid artery that is performed to predict or diagnose an ischemic attack.

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23
Q

carpal tunnel release

A

The surgical enlargement of the carpal tunnel or cutting of the carpal ligament to relieve pressure on nerves and tendons.

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24
Q

carpal tunnel syndrome

A

Swelling that creates pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel.

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25
Q

castration

A

Surgical removal or destruction of both testicles. Also known as bilateral orchidectomy.

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26
Q

cataract

A

The loss of transparency of the lens that causes a progressive loss of visual clarity. The formation of most cataracts is associated with aging; however this condition can be congenital or due to an injury or disease.

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27
Q

catatonic behavior

A

Marked by a lack of responsiveness, stupor, and a tendency to remain in a fixed posture.

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28
Q

causalgia

A

Persistent, severe, burning pain that usually follows an injury to a sensory nerve.

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29
Q

cauterization

A

The destruction of tissue by burning.

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30
Q

celiac disease

A

An inherited autoimmune disorder characterized by a severe reaction to foods containing gluten. Gluten is a class of proteins found in grains such as wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats. This disorder damages the villi of the body to absorb these substances properly.

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31
Q

cellulitis

A

An acute, rapidly spreading bacterial infection within the connective tissues that is characterized by malaise, swelling, warmth, and red streaks.

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32
Q

centesis

A

A surgical puncture excess fluid or to remove fluid for diagnosis purposes. Note: Centesis is used alone as a noun or as a suffix in conjunction with the combining form describing the body part being treated.

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33
Q

cephalgia

A

Pain in the head. Also known as a headache.

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34
Q

cephalic presentation

A

When the baby is born head first. The head can be seen at the vagina opening. Also known as the crown.

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35
Q

cerebral contusion

A

Bruising of brain tissue as the result of a head injury that causes the brain to bounce against the rigid bone of the skull.

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36
Q

cerebral palsy

A

A condition characterized by poor muscle control, spasticity, and other neurological deficiencies due to damage that affects the cerebrum. Cerebral palsy occurs most frequently in premature or low-birth-weight infants. Cerebral palsy is usually caused by an injury that occurs during pregnancy, birth, or soon after birth.

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37
Q

cerebrovascular accident

A

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.

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38
Q

cervical cancer

A

Cancer that develops in the cervix. Cervical cancer is the second-most common cancer in women and usually affects women between the ages 45 to 65 years. It is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), which can now be prevented through vaccination and can be detected early through routine Pap tests.

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39
Q

cervical dysplasia

A

The presence of precancerous changes in the cells that make up the inner lining of the cervix. Without early detection and treatment, these cells can become malignant.

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40
Q

cervical radiculopathy

A

Nerve pain caused by presence on the spinal nerve roots in the neck region.

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41
Q

cervicitis

A

Inflammation of the cervix that is usually caused by an infection.

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42
Q

cesarean section

A

The delivery of the child through an incision in the maternal abdominal and uterine walls. This usually performed when a vaginal birth would be unsafe for either the mother or baby. Also known as a C-section.

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43
Q

chalazion

A

A nodule or cyst, usually on the upper eyelid caused by obstruction of a sebaceous gland. A chalazion is a type of granuloma. (Plural, chalazia)

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44
Q

cheilosis

A

A disorder of the lips characterized by crack-like sores at the corners of the mouth.

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45
Q

chemabrasion

A

The use of chemicals to remove the outer layers of skin to treat acne scarring, fine wrinkling, and keratosis. Also known as a chemical peel.

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46
Q

chemoprevention

A

The use of natural or synthetic substances such as drugs or vitamins to reduce the risk of developing cancer or to reduce the chance that cancer will recur. Chemoprevention may also be used to reduce the size or slow the development of an existing tumor.

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47
Q

chemotherapy

A

The use of chemical agents and drugs in combinations selected to destroy malignant cells and tissues.

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48
Q

chest x-ray

A

A valuable tool for diagnosing pneumonia, lung cancer, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, tuberculosis, and emphysema. Also known as chest imaging.

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49
Q

Cheyne-Stokes respiration

A

An irregular pattern of breathing characterized by alternating rapid or shallow respiration followed by slow respiration or apnea. This pattern sometimes occurs in comatose patients or those nearing death.

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50
Q

chiropractive manipulative therapy

A

A system of mechanical spinal adjustments made by a chiropractor to correct biomechanical problems in the skeletal framework of the body.

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51
Q

chlamydia

A

Caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is the most commonly reported STD in the US. It is highly contagious and requires early treatment with antibiotics. In females, chlamydia can damage the reproductive organs. Even though symptoms are usually mild or absent, serious complications can cause irreversible damage, infertility. In males, chlamydia is one of the causes of urethritis.

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52
Q

chloasma

A

A pigmentation disorder characterized by brownish spots on the especially among women with dark hair and usually disappears after delivery. Also known as melasma or the mask of pregnancy.

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53
Q

cholangiography

A

A radiographic examination of the bile ducts with the use of a contrast medium. This test is used to identify obstructions in the liver or bile ducts that slow or block the flow of bile from the liver.

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54
Q

cholangitis

A

An acute inflammation of the bile duct characterized by pain in the upper-right quadrant of the abdomen, fever, and jaundice. The most common cause is a bacterial infection.

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55
Q

cholecystectomy

A

The surgical removal of the gallbladder. An open cholecystectomy is performed through an incision in the right side of the upper abdomen. A laparoscopic cholecystectomy, also known as a lap choley, is the surgical removal of the gallbladder using a laparoscope and other instrument inserted through three as four small incisions in the abdominal wall.

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56
Q

cholecystitis

A

Inflammation of the gallbladder, usually associated with gallstones blocking the flow of bile.

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57
Q

choledocholithotomy

A

An incision into the common bile duct for the removal of a gallstone.

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58
Q

cholelithiasis

A

The presence of gallstones in the gallbladder or bile ducts.

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59
Q

cholesteatoma

A

A destructive epidermal cyst in the middle ear and/or the mastoid process made up of epithelial cells and cholesterol. It can be congenital or a serious complication of chronic otitis media. Also known as a pearly tumor.

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60
Q

cholesterol

A

A fatty substance that travels through the blood and is found in all parts of the body. It aids in the production of cell membranes, some hormones, and vitamin D. Some cholesterol comes from dietary sources, and some is created by the liver. Excessively high levels of certain types of cholesterol can lead to heart disease.

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61
Q

cholesterol-lowering drugs

A

Such as statins, are used to combat hyperlipidemia, by reducing the undesirable cholesterol levels in the blood.

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62
Q

chondroma

A

A slow-growing benign tumor derived from cartilage cells.

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63
Q

chondromalacia

A

The abnormal softening of cartilage.

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64
Q

chondroplasty

A

The surgical repair of damaged cartilage.

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65
Q

chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

A

The examination of cells retrieved from the chorionic villi, which are minute, vascular projections on the chorion. This test is performed between the 8th and 10th weeks of pregnancy to search for genetic abnormalities in the developing fetus.

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66
Q

chronic bronchitis

A

A disease in which the airways have become inflamed due to recurrent exposure to an inhaled irritant, usually cigarette smoke. An increase in the number and size of mucus-producing cells results in excessive mucus production and a thickening of the walls of the air passages. This causes chronic coughing, difficulty getting air in and out of the lungs, and sometimes also bacterial lung infections.

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67
Q

chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

A

A disorder of unknown cause that affects many body systems. Many of the symptoms are similar to those of the fibromyalgia syndrome. CFS is a debilitating and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and maybe made worse by physical or mental activity.

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68
Q

chronic kidney disease (CKD)

A

The progressive loss of renal function over months or years. This common condition which can be life-threatening may result from diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. Also known as chronic renal disease or kidney failure.

69
Q

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

A

A group of lung diseases in which the bronchial airflow is obstructed, making it hard to breathe. COPD, which is most often caused by long-term smoking, is generally permanent and progressive. Most people with COPD suffer from two related conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

70
Q

chronic venous insufficiency

A

A condition in which venous circulation is inadequate due to partial vein blockage or to the leakage of venous valves. This condition primarily affects the feet and ankles, and the leakage of venous blood into the tissues causes discoloration of the skin. Also known as venous insufficiency.

71
Q

cicatrix

A

A normal scar resulting from the healing of a wound. (Plural, cicatrices)

72
Q

cineradiography

A

The recording of the fluoroscopy image.

73
Q

circumcision

A

The surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. This optional procedure is usually performed within a few days of birth.

74
Q

cirrhosis

A

A chronic degenerative disease of the liver characterized by scarring. Cirrhosis is often caused by excessive alcohol abuse or by viral hepatitis B or C. The progress of cirrhosis is marked by the formation of areas of scarred liver tissues that are filled with fat. The liver damage causes abnormal condition throughout the other body systems.

75
Q

claustrophobia

A

An abnormal fear of being in small or enclosed spaces.

76
Q

cleft lip

A

A birth defect in which there is a deep groove of the lip running upward to the nose as a result of the failure of this portion of the lip to close during prenatal development. Also known as a harelip.

77
Q

cleft palate

A

The failure of the palate to close during the early development of the fetus. This opening can involve the upper lip, hard palate, and/or soft palate. If not corrected, this opening between the nose and mouth makes it difficult for the child to eat and speak. Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur singly, or together, and usually can be corrected surgically.

78
Q

clinical trials

A

Involve testing new and promising treatments that have not yet received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval on patients who agree to be part of the research.

79
Q

closed-angle glaucoma

A

The opening between the cornea and iris narrows so that fluid cannot reach the trabecular meshwork. This narrowing can cause a sudden increase in the intraocular pressure that produces severe pain, nausea, redness of the eye, and blurred vision. Without immediate treatment, blindness can occur in as little as two days. Also known as acute glaucoma.

80
Q

closed fracture

A

One in which the bone is broken, but there is no open wound in the skin. Also known as a simple fracture or a complete fracture.

81
Q

closed reduction

A

The attempted realignment of the bone involved in a fracture or joint discoloration. The affected bone is returned to its normal anatomic alignment by manually applied force and then is usually immobilized to maintain the realignment position during healing. Also known as manipulation.

82
Q

clostridium difficile

A

A bacterial infection common to older adults in hospitals or long-term care facilities, typically following the use of antibiotics that wipe out competing bacteria. This disease causes diarrhea and can lead to inflammation of the colon. Infection control measures such as hand-scrubbing or wearing gloves can help prevent its spread. Also known as C. diff.

83
Q

clubbing

A

Abnormal curving of the nails that is often accompanied by enlargement of the fingertips. This condition can be hereditary, but usually is caused by changes associated with oxygen deficiencies related to coronary or pulmonary disease.

84
Q

cluster headaches

A

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.

85
Q

cochlear implant

A

An electronic device that bypasses the damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve. The external speech processor captures sounds and converts them into cochlea receive the signals and stimulate the auditory nerve. The brain receives these signals and perceives them as sound; however, it may take several months to adjust to the difference in speech when it is received in this manner.

86
Q

cognition

A

The mental activities associated with thinking, learning, memory. Mild cognitive impairment is a memory disorder, usually associated with recently acquired information, which may be early predictor of Alzheimer?s disease.

87
Q

cognitive therapy

A

Focuses as changing cognitions or 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.

88
Q

colectomy

A

The surgical removal of all or part of the colon.

89
Q

collagen replacement therapy

A

A form of soft-tissue augmentation used to soften facial lines or scars, or to make lips appear fuller. Tiny quantities of collagen are injected under a line or scar to boost the skin?s natural supply of collagen. The affect usually lasts for 3 to 12 months.

90
Q

Colles? fracture

A

Named for the Irish surgeon Abraham Colles. This fracture occurs at a lower end of the radius when a person tries to stop a fall by landing on his or her hands. The impact of this fall causes the bone weakened by osteoporosis to break. Also known as a fractured wrist.

91
Q

colonoscopy

A

The direct visual examination of the inner surface of the entire colon from the rectum to the cecum. A virtual colonoscopy uses x-rays and computers to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the colon.

92
Q

colorectal carcinoma

A

Often first manifests itself in polyps in the colon. Commonly known as colon cancer.

93
Q

colostomy

A

The surgical creation of an artificial excretory opening between the colon and the body surface.

94
Q

colotomy

A

A surgical incision into the colon.

95
Q

coplopexy

A

The surgical fixation of a prolapsed vagina to a surrounding structure such as the abdominal wall. Also known as a vaginoflexion.

96
Q

colporrhaphy

A

The surgical suturing of a tear in the vagina.

97
Q

colporrhexis

A

Tearing or laceration of the vaginal wall.

98
Q

colposcopy

A

The direct visual examination of the tissues of the cervix and vagina. This examination is performed using a binocular magnifier known as a colposcope.

99
Q

coma

A

A profound (deep) state of unconsciousness marked by the absence of spontaneous eye movements, no response to painful stimuli, and lack of speech. The term comatose refers to a person who is in a coma.

100
Q

comedo

A

A noninfected lesion-formed by the buildup of sebum and keratin in a hair follicle (plural, comedones) often associated with acne vulgaris. A comedo with an obstructed opening is called a whitehead (a closed comedo). A sebum plug that is exposed to air often oxidizes and becomes a blackhead (an open comedo).

101
Q

comminuted fracture

A

One in which the bone is splintered or crushed. Comminuted means crushed into small pieces.

102
Q

communicable disease

A

Any condition that is transmitted from one person to another either by direct or by indirect contact with contaminated objects.

103
Q

comunity-acquired pneumonia

A

A type of pneumonia that results from contagious infection outside of a hospital or clinic.

104
Q

compartment syndrome

A

Involves the compression of nerves and blood vessels due to swelling within the enclosed space created by the fascia that separates groups of muscles. This syndrome can be caused by trauma, tight bandages or by repetitive activities such as running.

105
Q

complementary medicine

A

Practices and systems of health care used to supplement allopathic medicine.

106
Q

complete blood cell count (CBC)

A

A series of tests performed as a group to evaluate several blood conditions.

107
Q

compression fracture

A

Occurs when the bones is pressed together (compressed) on itself. These fractures are sometimes caused by the spontaneous collapse of weakened vertebrae or can be due to an injury. This results in pain, loss of height, and development of the spinal curvature known as dowager?s hump. Also known as a vertebral crush fracture.

108
Q

computed tomography

A

More commonly used as a primary tool for evaluation of the urinary system because it can rapidly perform and provides additional imaging of the abdomen, which may reveal other potential source for the patient?s symptoms.

109
Q

concussion

A

A violent shaking or jarring of the brain. A concussion may result in a temporary loss of awareness and function.

110
Q

conductive hearing loss

A

Occurs when sound waves are prevented from passing from the air to the fluid-filled inner ear. Causes of this hearing loss include a buildup of earwax, infection, fluid in the middle ear, a punctured eardrum, otosclerosis, and scarring. This type of hearing loss can often be treated.

111
Q

congenital disorder

A

An abnormal condition that exists at the time of birth. These conditions can be caused by a developmental disorder before birth, prenatal influences, premature birth, or injuries during the birth process.

112
Q

congenital heart defects

A

Structural abnormalities caused by the failure of the heart to develop normally before birth. Some congenital heart defects are apparent at birth whereas other may not be detected until later in life.

113
Q

conization

A

The surgical removal of a con-shaped specimen of tissue from the cervix. This is performed as a diagnostic procedure or to remove abnormal tissue. Also known as a cone biopsy.

114
Q

conjunctivitis

A

An inflammation of the conjunctiva that is usually caused by an infection or allergy. Also known as pinkeye.

115
Q

Conn?s syndrome

A

A disorder of the adrenal glands that is caused by the excessive production of aldosterone. This disease which is a form of primary aldosteronism, cause weakness, cramps, and convulsions.

116
Q

constipation

A

Defined as having a bowel movement fewer than three times per week. With constipation, stools are usually hard, dry, small in size, and different to eliminate.

117
Q

contact dermatitis (CD)

A

A localized allergic response caused by contact with an irritant, such as diaper rash. It can also be caused by exposure to an allergen, such as poison ivy, or an allergic reaction to latex gloves.

118
Q

contraceptive

A

A measure taken to lessen the likelihood of pregnancy.

119
Q

contracture

A

The permanent tightening of fascia muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin that occurs when normally elastic connective tissues are replaced with non-elastic fibrous tissues. The most common causes of contractures scarring or the lack of use due to immobilization or inactivity.

120
Q

contraindication

A

A factor in the patient?s condition that makes the use of a medication or specific treatment dangerous or ill advised.

121
Q

contrast medium

A

Administered by swallowing, via an enema, or intravenously, to make specific body structures visible. Specialized substances are used depending on the imaging systems and the body parts to be enhanced. These media are either radiopaque or radiolucent.

122
Q

contusion

A

An injury to underlying tissues without breaking the skin and is characterized by discoloration and pain. This discoloration is caused by an accumulation of blood within the skin.

123
Q

conversion disorder

A

Characterized by serious temporary or ongoing changes in function, such as paralysis or blindness, that are triggered by psychological facters rather than by any physical cause.

124
Q

corneal abrasion

A

An injury, such as a scratch or irritation, to the outer layers of the cornea.

125
Q

corneal transplant

A

The surgical replacement of a scarred or diseased cornea with clear corneal tissue from a donor. Also known as keratoplasty.

126
Q

corneal ulcer

A

A pitting of cornea by an infection or injury. Although these ulcers heal with treatment, they can leave a cloudy scar that impairs vision.

127
Q

coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)

A

In this operation, which requires opening the chest is implanted on the heart to replace a blocked coronary artery and to improve the flow of blood to the heart. Also known as bypass surgery.

128
Q

coronary artery disease (CAD)

A

Atherosclerosis of the coronary that reduces the blood to the heart muscle. This creates an insufficient supply of oxygen that can cause angina (pain), a myocardial infarction (heart attack), or death. End-stage coronary artery disease is characterized by unrelenting angina and a severely limited lifestyle.

129
Q

coronary thrombosis

A

Damage to the heart muscle caused by a thrombosis blocking a coronary artery.

130
Q

corticosteroid drug

A

A hormone-like drug preparation administered primarily as an anti-inflammatory and as an immunosuppressant. The natural production of corticosteroids by the endocrine system.

131
Q

cortisone

A

The synthetic equivalent of corticosteroids produced by the body. Cortisone is administered and as an immunosuppressant. Also known as hydrocortisone.

132
Q

costochondritis

A

An inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the sternum.

133
Q

Coumadin

A

A brand name for warfarin, is an anticoagulant administered to prevent blood clots from or growing larger. This medication is often prescribed for patients with clotting difficulties, certain types of heartbeat irregularities, or after a heart attack or heart valve replacement surgery.

134
Q

cover tests

A

An examination of how two eyes work together and is used to assess binocular vision. One eye at a time is covered while the patient focuses on an object across the room.

135
Q

CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure)

A

A non-invasive ventilation device used in the treatment of sleep apnea. A face mask is connected to a pump that creates constant air pressure in the nasal passages, holding the airway open. Although this does not cure sleep apnea, it does reduce snoring and prevents dangerous apnea disturbance.

136
Q

cramp

A

A painful localized muscle spasm often named for its cause, such as writer?s cramp or menstrual cramps.

137
Q

cranial hematoma

A

A collection of blood trapped in the tissues of the brain. Named for their location, the types of cranial hematomas include an epidermal hematoma located above the dura mater or a subdural hematoma, which is located below the dura mater. Cranial hematomas may be caused by a major or even minor head injury.

138
Q

craniectomy

A

The surgical removal of a portion of the skull. This procedure is performed to treat craniostenosis or to relieve increased intracranial pressure due to swelling of the brain.

139
Q

cranioplasty

A

The surgical repair of the skull.

140
Q

craniosacral therapy

A

The use of gentle touch to help the body release tension, stress, and trauma to correct restrictions resulting from stress on the central nervous system.

141
Q

cranostenosis

A

A malformation of the skull due to the premature closure of the cranial sutures.

142
Q

craniotomy

A

A surgical incision or opening into the skull. This procedure is performed to gain access to the brain to relieve intracranial pressure, or to obtain access for other surgical procedures.

143
Q

C-reactive protein test (CRP)

A

Performed to identify high levels of inflammation within the body, The information provided by this test is obtained by the presence of the c-reactive protein, which is produced by the liver only during episodes of acute inflammation. Although this test does not identify the specific cause of the inflammation, an elevated level can indicate a heart attack, a coronary artery disease, or an autoimmune disorder.

144
Q

creatinuria

A

The presence of calcium in the urine. Abnormally high levels can be diagnostic for hyperarathyroidism. Lower-than-normal levels can indicate osteomalacia.

145
Q

crepitation

A

The grating sound heard when the ends of a broken bone move together. This term also describe the crackling sound heard in lungs affected with pneumonia and the clicking sound heard in the movements of some joints. Also known as crepitus.

146
Q

cretinism

A

A congenital form of hypothyroidism. If treatment is not started soon after birth, cretinism causes arrested physical and mental development.

147
Q

Crohn?s disease (CD)

A

A chronic autoimmune disorder that can occur anywhere in the digestive tract; however, it is most often found in the ileum and in the colon. In contrast to ulcerative colitis, Crohn?s disease generally penetrates every layer of tissue in the affected area. This can result in scarring and thickening of the walls of the affected structures. The most common complication of Crohn?s disease is blockage of the intestine due to swelling and scarring.

148
Q

crossmatch tests

A

Performed to determine the compatibility of blood donor and the recipient before a blood transfusion. Agglutination is a positive reaction that indicates the donor unit is not a suitable match.

149
Q

croup

A

An acute respiratory infection in children and infants characterized by obstruction of the larynx, hoarseness, and swelling around the vocal cords resulting in a barking cough and strider.

150
Q

crust

A

A collection of dried serum and cellular debris. Also known as a scab.

151
Q

cryosurgery

A

The destruction or elimination of abnormal tissue cells, such as warts or tumors, through the application of extreme cold by using liquid nitrogen.

152
Q

cryptorchidism

A

A developmental defect in which one or both of the testicles fail to descend into their normal position in the scrotum. Also known as an undescended testicle.

153
Q

curettage

A

The removal of material from the surface by scraping. One use of this technique is to remove basal cell tumors.

154
Q

Cushing?s syndrome

A

Caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. Cortisol has an anti-inflammatory action, and it regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the body. The symptoms include a rounded red ?moon? face.

155
Q

cyanosis

A

Blue discoloration of the skin caused by a lack of adequate oxygen in the blood.

156
Q

cyst

A

An abnormal sac containing gas, fluid, or semisolid material. The term cyst can also refer to a sac or vesicle elsewhere in the body. The most common type of skin cyst is a sebaceous.

157
Q

cystaglia

A

Pain in the bladder.

158
Q

cystectomy

A

The surgical removal of all or part of the urinary bladder. This procedure is usually performed to treat bladder cancer.

159
Q

Cystic fibrosis

A

A life-threatening genetic disorder in which the lung and pancreas are clogged with large quantities of abnormally thick mucus. This results in damage to the lungs, poor growth and nutritional deficiencies. Treatment for cystic fibrosis include: Pancreatic enzymes, to aid the digestive systems; Antibiotics to prevent and treat lung infections; Bronchodilators to keep airways open; Chest percussion which is a therapeutic technique to remove excess mucus from the lungs. This is often performed with the patient positioned at an angle to allow gravity to help drain the secretions.

160
Q

cystitis

A

An inflammation of the bladder.

161
Q

cystocele

A

A hernia of the bladder through the vaginal wall. This sometimes occurs as a result of pregnancy or child birth. Also known as a prolapsed lung.

162
Q

cystography

A

A radiographic, or x-ray, examination of the bladder after a contrast medium is instilled via a urethral catheter.

163
Q

cystolith

A

A stone located anywhere along the ureter.

164
Q

cystopexy

A

The surgical fixation of the bladder to the abdominal wall.

165
Q

cystorrhaphy

A

The surgical suturing of a wound or detect in the bladder.

166
Q

cystoscopy

A

The visual examination of the urinary bladder with the use of a specialized type of an endoscope known as a cystoscope. A specialized cystoscope is also used for treatment procedures such as the removal of tumors or the reduction of an enlarged gland.

167
Q

cytomegalovirus (CMV)

A

Found in most body fluids. It is most often present as a silent infection in which the individual has no signs or symptoms of the infection, although it can potentially cause a serious congenital disability to the child.

168
Q

cytotoxic drug

A

A medication that kills or damages cells. These drugs are used as immunosuppressants or as antineoplastics.

Medical Terminology (61 decks)

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