Introduction to Pathophysiology Flashcards
Define homeostasis
Preservation of a constant internal environment in a changing external environment.
What areas will we see pathologies due to the inability to maintain homeostasis?
Pathologies will be seen with:
- Thermoregulation
- Energy balance
- Serum glucose
- Osmoregulation
- Acid-base balance
- Blood volume
Define pathology.
The structural and functional changes in the body caused by disease or trauma.
Define pathophysiology
The study of disordered physiological processes associated with disease or injury.
What does etiology mean?
Cause(s) of a disease.
What does pathogenesis mean?
Mechanism(s) that result in the presenting signs and symptoms.
What does morphology mean in regards to pathophysiology?
Study of form and structure.
Describe a sign of disease/injury.
Any objective evidence of a disease.
Describe a symptom of disease/injury.
Changes detected or sensed by the patient.
Ex: stomach-ache, low back pain, fatigue, chest pain
What are 4 signs used to screen for melanoma?
- Asymmetry
- Border
- Color
- Diameter
What does subclinical mean?
Not sever enough to present definite or readily observable symptoms.
Ex: Covid-19 subclinical for 3 days before symptoms are shown
What does sequela(e) mean?
A condition that is the consequence of a previous disease or injury.
Define what a complication is.
A medical problem that occurs during a disease, or after a procedure or treatment has been completed.
Define resolution.
Reduction in the severity of a pathological state.
Define an illness.
Deviation from a healthy state. Has a broader, more generic and less ominous meaning than disease; tends to be acute or short term.
Define a disease.
Biological or psychological alteration that results in organ/system dysfunction; tends to be chronic.
*Can occur without perceiving the presence of an illness.
Describe what classifies an acute disease.
Rapid onset with short duration; usually self limiting; and can usually anticipate full recovery with full resolution.
Describe what classifies a chronic disease.
Often results in a permanent impairment, or physical/ cognitive impairment; Often require special rehabilitation and/or long term management; and may fluctuate in intensity.