Medical Terminology Flashcards
1
Q
Alcorhydria
A
Absence of hydrochloric acid in gastric juices
2
Q
Acromegaly
A
Abnormal development of the bones, chiefly of the hands and face; associated with dysfunction of the pituitary and/or thyroid gland
3
Q
Adenoma
A
A new growth or neoplasm composed of epithelial tissue; may be benign or malignant
4
Q
Adenopathy
A
Any disease of the glands
5
Q
Afferent
A
Projecting to a structure
6
Q
Akinesis
A
Absence of voluntary movement
7
Q
Alopecia
A
Absence of hair in skin areas where it is normally present
8
Q
Amenorrhea
A
Absence of or abnormal stoppage of menses
9
Q
Amnesia
A
Loss of memory
10
Q
Anabolism
A
Any constructive process by which simple substances are converted into more complex compounds by living cells
(e.g. the conversion of amino acids –> muscle protein)
11
Q
Analgesic
A
Agent that alleviates pain without causing loss of consciousness
12
Q
Anaphrodisia
A
Absence or loss of sexual desire
13
Q
Anaphylactic
A
Unusual or exaggerated reaction of the body to a foreign pattern
14
Q
Aneurysm
A
A sac formed by the dilation of the walls of an artery or of a vein and filled with blood
15
Q
Angina
A
Spasmodic, choking, or suffocative pain; often used for the disease or condition producing such pain (e.g. angina pectoris = symptom of cardiac insufficiency characterized by chest pain)
16
Q
Angiography
A
Description of the blood vessels and lymphatics obtained by radiography of vessels after injection with a radio-opaque material
17
Q
Anorexia
A
Lack or loss of appetite for food
18
Q
Anorexiant
A
An agent that reduces desire for food; an anoretic
19
Q
Anovulation
A
Suspension or cessation of ovulation
20
Q
Anoxia
A
Absence or loss of oxygen
21
Q
Antacid
A
A drug that locally neutralizes excess gastric acid
22
Q
Anthelmintic
A
Substance useful in the treatment of parasitic intestinal worms
23
Q
Antibody
A
Modified type of serum globulin synthesized by lymphoid tissue in response to antigenic stimulus
24
Q
Anticholinergic
A
Drug that prevents response to stimulation of parasympathetic nervous system; AKA parasympatholytics
25
Antidote
Agent given to counteract an unwanted effect of a drug
26
Antiemetic
Agent that prevents vomiting
27
Antiflatulent
Agent that reduces GI tract gas (e.g. simethicone)
28
Antigalactagogue
Agent that tends to suppress milk secretion
29
Antigen
Substance that causes the production of antibodies when inoculated into the blood
30
Antineoplastic
Agent that is selectively toxic to rapidly multiplying cells; destroys malignant tumors
31
Antiperistaltic
Agent that decreases intestinal tract motility (useful in treating diarrhea, motion sickness, etc)
32
Antipruritic
Agent that relieves or reduces itching
33
Antipyretic
Agent that reduces or relieves fever
34
Antitussive
Agent that relieves or prevents coughing
35
Anuria
Absence of urine excretion from the body
36
Aphasia
Limited ability to understand or use symbols of language; either spoken or written
37
Apnea
Temporary cessation of breathing; asphyxia
38
Arrythmia
Variation from normal rhythm of heart
39
Arteriole
Small artery
40
Arteriosclerosis
Condition marked by thickening and hardening of the arteries due to loss of elasticity
41
Arthralgia
Neuralgia or pain in the joint
42
Arthritits
Inflammation of the joint
43
Ascites
Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
44
Auscultation
Listening to sounds within the body
45
Asthenia
Lack or loss of strength and energy; weakness
46
Astringent
Mild protein precipitant for local application to harden skin, decrease secretion, or coagulate bleeding
47
Ataxia
Lack of motor coordination due to dysfunction of the cerebellum; zigzag movement due to drinking alcohol or other CNS depressants
48
Atelectasis
Incomplete expansion of the lungs at birth, or the collapse of an adult lung
49
Atheroma
Any closed sac or cyst of noninflammatory origin filled with a gruel-like material
50
Atherosclerosis
A lesion of the large or medium-sized arteries with deposits in the blood vessel lining (intima) of yellowish plaques containing cholesterol, lipoid material, and lipophages
51
Atonia, atony
Lack of normal strength or tone
52
Atopic dermatitis
Inflammation of the skin caused by allergy to substances either ingested or inhaled
53
Atrophy
A wasting away in the size of cell, tissue, organ, or other body part
54
Attenuation
Mutation to a less virulent form
55
Aura
Premonitory sensation that often precedes an epileptic fit
56
Azotemia
Presence of urea or other nitrogenous compounds in the blood
57
bacteremia
The presence of bacteria in the blood
58
Bile
Digestive juice made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder for breaking up fat globules
59
Bilirubin
A bile pigment
60
Biliuria
Presence of bile in the urine
61
Blepharitis
Inflammation of the eyelids
62
Bowel
Intestine
63
Bradycardia
Abnormal slowness of the heartbeat (usually less than 60 bpm)
64
Bronchiectasis
Dilation of the bronchial tubules
65
Bruit
Abnormal blowing or swishing sound heard during auscultation of an artery or organ
66
Bruxism
Grinding of the teeth other than normal chewing, especially when such movements occur during sleep
67
Bullous
Pertaining to or characterized by large blisters or cutaneous vesicles filled with serous fluid
68
Bursa
Sac or sac-like cavity filled with viscid fluid and situated at places in tissue where friction would otherwise develop
69
Bursitis
Inflammation of a bursa, often characterized by difficulty of movement in body parts
70
Cachexia
Profound and marked state of constitutional disorder; general ill health and malnutrition
71
Callus
A broad, shallow, hyperkeratotic skin lesion
72
Carcinoma
Malignant new growth made of epithelial cells tending to infiltrate surrounding tissues causing metastasis
73
Cardiomegaly
Enlargement of the heart
74
Cardiopathy
Disease of the heart
75
Catabolism
Any destructive process by which complex substances are converted by living cells into simple compounds; destructive metabolism
76
Celiac
Pertaining to the abdomen
77
Cellulitus
diffuse inflammation process in solid tissues; characterized by edema, pain, redness and possible interference with function
78
Cephalic
Pertaining to the head or the head end of the body
79
Cerebrovascular
Pertaining to the blood vessels of the cerebrum or brain
80
Cerumen
Waxy secretion in the ear
81
Cervical
Neck region (C1-C7)
82
Chancre
The primary lesion of syphillis
83
Chancroid
Infection that begins on a pustule on genitals, grows rapidly, and finally breaks down into a virulent ulcer that discharges pus
84
Cheilosis
Condition marked by fissuring and dry scaling of the red surface of the lips and angles of the mouth; characteristic of riboflavin deficiency
85
Cholecystitis
Inflammation of the gall bladder
86
Cholelithasis
Presence or formation of a gallstone(s)
87
Cholestasis
Stoppage or reduction of bile flow
88
Cirrhosis
End stage liver disease involving progressive destruction of liver cells accompanied by failure of hepatic cell function, poor blood flow in the liver, and an increase in connective tissue
89
Coccygeal
Region of the coccyx
90
Colic
Acute abdominal pain
91
Colitis
Inflammation of the colon
92
Comedo
A plug of dried sebum in the excretory duct;
closed comedo = whitehead
open comedo = blackhead
93
Congenital
Born with (e.g congenital deformity)
94
Conjunctiva
Delicate membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the exposed surface of the eyeball
95
Corn
Well defined hyperkeratotic skin lesion
96
Creatinine
Nitrogenous waste excreted in urine
97
Creatinine Clearance
Measure of the efficiency of the kidneys in removing creatinine from the blood
98
Cryotherapy
Use of coldness for therapeutic effects
99
Cyanosis
Blush discoloration of the skin and mucous membrane caused by excessive concentration of deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood
100
Cycloplegia
Paralysis of the ciliary muscle of the eye and thus paralysis of accommodation
101
Cyst
a sac or cavity usually containing fluid or semisolid material
102
Cystitis
Inflammation of urinary bladder
103
Decubitus
The act of lying down; a bed sore (decubitus ulcer)
104
Defecation
Elimination of feces from the digestive tract through the anus
105
Defibrillation
Brief discharges of electricity applied across the chest to stop dysrhythmias
106
Dermatitis
An inflammation of the skin
107
Desquamation
Shedding of epithelial elements; chiefly of the skin in scales or sheets
108
Diabetogenic
Something (an agent, drug, etc.) causing diabetes mellitus
109
Diaphoresis
Perspiration, especially from sweat glands as perfuse perspiration
110
Diaphoretic
An agent that causes increased secretion from sweat glands
111
Diastole
Relaxation (dilation) of the ventricles of the heart as they fill with blood (opposite of systole)
112
Diplopia
Double vision
113
Diverticulitis
Inflammation and formation of small pouches along the border of the colon; such pouches fill with feces, which creates irritation leading to inflammation and abcess
114
Diverticulosis
Abnormal outpouching in the intestinal wall
115
Duodenum
The first or proximal portion of the small intestine extending from the pylorus to the jujenum
116
Dyscrasia
Morbid condition of the blood
117
Dysentery
Inflammation of the intestine with evacuation containing blood and mucous
118
Dyskinesia
Impairments in performing voluntary movements
119
Dysmenorrhea
Painful or difficult menstruation
120
Dyspepsia
Impairment in digestive function
121
Dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing
122
Dysphasia
Impaired or difficult speech
123
Dysphoria
A feeling of emotional and mental discomfort which could be a symptom of restlessness, depression, anxiety, etc.
124
Dyspnea
Difficult or labored breathing
125
Dystonia
loss of muscle tone; involuntary, irregular muscle contraction
126
Dystrophy
Disorder arising from faulty nutrition or infection
127
Dysuria
Pain or difficulty in urination
128
Ecchymosis
Extravasation of blood under the skin, usually with skin discoloration (e.g. a small bruise)
129
Eclampsia
Convulsion or coma occurring in pregnant women; usually associated with hypertension, edema, or proteinurina
130
Ectopic
Location away from the normal position
131
Eczema
Skin inflammation accompanied by itching, exudation, and the formation of scales or crust
132
Edema
Presence of abnormally large mounts of fluids in the intercellular tissue spaces; demonstratable amount of excess fluid in subcutaneous tissues
133
Efferent
Conducting away from a structure
134
Embolism
Obstruction of a blood vessel by a clot brought from another location ( a thrombus that has broken loose)
135
Emesis
The act of vomiting
136
Emphysema
Hyperinflation of air with destruction of alveolar walls
137
Empyema
Accumulation of pus in a body cavity
138
Encephalitis
Inflammation of the brain
139
Endarectomy
Surgical removal of plaque from the inner layer of an artery
140
Endemic
Disease of low morbidity that is constantly present in human community
141
Endocarditis
Inflammation of the endothelial lining membrane of the heart and the connective tissue bed on which it lies
142
Endoscopy
Inspection of any body cavity
143
Enteric
Pertaining to the intestine
144
Enteritis
inflammation in the intestine, especially the small intestine
145
Enuresis
Involuntary discharge of urine
146
Epidemic
Disease of high morbidity that occurs only occasionally in the community
147
Epigastric
Middle upper abdominopelvic region above the stomach
148
Epistaxis
Hemorrhage from the nose (nosebleed)
149
Erythema
Patchy or circular redness of the skin due to an excess of red corpuscles or erythrocytes in the lower layer of the skin
150
Erythema*
Polycythemia Vera; an excess of red corpuscles or erythrocytes by the bone marrow
151
Erythrocyte
Red blood cell
152
Erythropoietin
Hormone secreted by the kidney to stimulate red blood cell production in the bone marrow
153
Etiology
The study of causes; causes of diseases
154
Euphoria
A feeling of general well being, bodily comfort, and the absence of general discomfort
155
Euthyroid
Condition of having a normally functioning thyroid gland
156
Exacerbation
An increase in the severity of a symptom or a disease
157
Exogenous
Originating or originally produced outside the body
158
Extravasation
A discharge or escape such as blood from a vessel into a tissue (i.e. hemorrhage); also refers to leakage form an intravenous line into surrounding tissue
159
Exudate
material such as fluid, cells, cellular debris that has escaped from blood vessels and deposited in tissues or tissue surfaces (usually the result of inflammation)
160
Fascia
A sheet or band of fibrous tissue such as that beneath the skin or enclosing muscles
161
Febrile
Penetrating to or characterized by fever
162
Fibrillation
Very rapid, random, inefficient, and irregular contraction of the heart
163
Fibrosis
The formation of fibrous tissue
164
Fissure (anal)
A painful ulcer at the margin of the anus
165
Fistula
An abnormal passage or communication, usually between two internal organs, or leading form an internal organ to the body surface
166
flatulence
Accumulation of gases in the stomach and intestines with resultant distention
167
Flutter
Rapid but regular contraction
168
Fundus
The bottom or base of an organ or the part of a hollow organ farthest from its mouth
169
Gangrene
Death of tissue associated with loss of blood supply
170
Gastritis
Inflammation of the stomach
171
Genotype
The fundamental hereditary constitution (or assortment of alleles) of an individual
172
Geriatric
Branch of medicine that treats all problems peculiar to old age, including senility
173
Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gum tissue
174
Glaucoma
condition of the eye characterized by increased intraocular pressure
175
Glomerulus
Tiny ball of capillaries in the kidney
176
Glossitis
Inflammation of the tongue
177
Gluteal
Pertaining to the buttocks
178
Glycogenesis
Synthesis of glycogen
179
Glycogenolysis
Breakdown of glycogen and the release of glucose in the blood circulation
180
Goiter
Chronic enlargement of the thyroid gland
181
Gout
Metabolic disease accompanied by excess uric acid in the blood, joint inflammation, and other symptoms
182
Granulocyte
White blood cell with multiple dark-staining granules (eosinophil, neutrophil, basophil)
183
Granulocytopenia
Deficiency of granulocytes in the blood
184
Granulocytosis
Abnormal increase in the number of granulocytes in the blood
185
Granuloma
Tumor or neoplasm made up of lymphoid tissue
186
Hematochezia
Passage of fresh, bright red blood from the rectum
187
Hematocrit
Volume percentage of erythrocytes in whole blood
188
Hematoma
Localized mass of extravascular coagulated blood (a bruise)
189
Hematopoietic
Drug that stimulates production of blood cells
190
Hematuria
Presence of blood in the urine; any condition in which the urine contains blood or red blood cells
191
Heme
The iron-containing nonprotein fraction of hemoglobin
192
Hemodialysis
Removal of certain elements from the blood by virtue of the difference in their diffusion through a semipermeable membrane
193
Hemoglobin
The oxygen-carrying pigment of erythrocytes, formed by the developing erythrocyte in bone marrow
194
Hemolysis
The destruction of red blood cells and the resulting escape of hemoglobin
195
Hemophilia
Hereditary hemorrhagic disease characterized by hemarthrosis and deep tissue bleeding caused by deficient generation of intrinsic thromboplastin
196
Hemoptysis
Coughing up of blood or of blood-stained sputum
197
Hemorroid
A varicosity of the veins of the anus and lower end of the rectum
198
Hemosiderosis
Condition of iron overloading caused by the large breakdown of red blood cells
199
Hemostatic
Checking the flow of blood; an agent that arrests blood flow
200
Hepatic
Pertaining to the liver
201
Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver
202
Hernia
Protrusion of a loop or knuckle of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening
203
Hiatus
An aperture or fissure
204
Hiatus hernia
The protrusion of a part of the stomach through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm
205
Hirsutism
Abnormal hairiness, especially in women
206
Homeostasis
The maintenance of static or constant conditions in the internal environment
207
Hormone
Substance formed in a gland or organ that acts locally or is then transported to another area of the body via blood circulation to cause stimulation or inhibition in functional activity or the organ or tissue
208
Hyperbaric
Characterized by greater than normal pressure of weight; also describes a spinal anesthesia solution that has a specific gravity greater than that of the spinal fluid itself
209
Hyperemesis gravidarum
The pernicious vomiting of pregnancy
210
Hyperemia
An excess of blood in an area
211
Hyperesthemia
Abnormally increased sensitivity of the skin of an organ of special sense
212
Hyperglycemia
Excessive sugar in the blood
213
Hypoglycemia
Deficiency of sugar in the blood
214
Hyperhidrosis
Excessive perspiration
215
Hyperkeratosis
Hypertrophy of either the horny layer of the epidermis or of the cornea
216
Hyperkinetic
Abnormal increase of motor function or activity
217
Hyperplasia
Abnormal multiplication or increase in the number of normal cells in normal tissue
218
Hyperpyrexia
Highly elevated blood pressure
219
Hyperventilation
Hyperpnea and dyspnea in anxious or depressed persons; often leads to alkalosis
220
Hypokalemia
Abnormally low potassium content in the blood
221
Hyponatremia
Deficiency of sodium in the blood; salt depletion
222
Hypoxemia
Deficient oxygenation of the blood
223
Iatrogenic
A disease produced secondary to the treatment of the patient; often is the result of side effects of the drug therapy chosen by the physician
224
Icterus
Jaundice
225
Ileostomy
Surgical opening of the small intestine to connect it to the skin
226
Ileus
Non-mechanical obstruction of the intestines due to loss of peristalsis
227
Immunoglobulin
Protein (globulin) with antibody activity
228
Impetigo
A bacterial inflammatory skin disease characterized by the appearance of pustules
229
Incontinence
Inability to refrain from yielding to normal impulses, especially the urge to defecate or urinate
230
Induration
An abnormally hard area
231
Infarction
The formulation of an area of coagulation necrosis in tissue caused by local anemia resulting form the obstruction of circulation to the area
232
Inguinal
Right and left lower abdominopelvic region near the groin. Also called iliac region
232
Insomnia
inability to sleep; abnormal wakefulness
233
Intima
Innermost
234
Intractable
Resistant to treatment; difficult to control
235
Ischemia
Localized deficiency of blood caused by functional constriction or actual obstruction of a blood vessel
236
Jaundice
Yellow-orange discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes caused by high levels of bilirubin in the blood
237
Keratitis
Inflammation of the cornea
238
Keratolytic
Agent that produces desquamation (peeling) of horny layers of the skin
239
Ketonuria
Ketone bodies in the urine
240
Lavage
Irrigation of a viscus, such as the stomach
241
Lethargy
Condition of drowsiness, of mental origin
242
Leukemia
Increase in cancerous white blood cells
243
Leukocyte
A white blood cell divided according to structure into granulocytes, lymphocytes, and monocytes
244
Leukocytosis
Physiologic increase in white blood cells (greater than 10,000/mL)
245
Leukopenia
Abnormally low white blood cell count (5,000 or less)
246
Libido
Sexual energy/desire
247
Lipoma
A fatty tumor
248
Lumbar
Right and left middle abdominopelvic region near the waist (L1-L5)
249
Lymphoma
A tumor due to abnormal B or T lymphocytes functioning
250
Lymphopenia
Reduced number of lymphocytes in the blood
251
Macula
A stain or spot; a discolored spot on the skin not elevated above the surface
252
Malaise
A vague feeling of bodily discomfort or illness
253
Malignancy
Condition that is resistant to treatment, tends to get worse, may be fatal
254
Mask-like facie
The bland, expressionless face characteristic of parkinsonism
255
Masectomy
Surgical removal of a breast
256
Megaloblast
Primitive red blood cells of large size, present in patients with pernicious anemia
257
Melancholia
Mental disorder characterized by apathy and depression
258
Melanosis
Abnormal, dark brown pigmentation of various tissues or organs; in the skin it is known as a suntan
259
Melasma
Patchy or generalized pigmentation of skin ("urticaria pigmentosa")
260
Melena
Passage of dark-colored, tarry stools, usually caused by the presence of blood
261
Menarche
Beginning of the first menstrual period and ability to reproduce
262
Meninges
The three membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord (dura mater, pia mater, arachnoid)
263
Menopause
Gradual ending of menstruation
264
Menorrhagia
Abnormally profuse menstruation
265
Metastasis
The transfer of disease from one organ or part to another that is not directly connected to it
266
Methemoglobinemia
Presence of methemoglobin (hemoglobin with ferric iron) in the blood; this form does not readily combine with oxygen
267
Micturition
Passage of urine
268
Miosis
Constriction of the pupil
269
Mitosis
Process by which a cell divides to form two new cells
270
Morbidity
The ratio of sick to well; the sick rate
271
Mortality
The death rate
272
Mucolytic
Agent that destroys or dissolves secretion of the mucous membrane (e.g. respiratory tract mucous)
273
Mucosa
A mucous membrane
274
Myalgia
Pain in a muscle or muscles
275
Myasthenia
Muscular weakness
276
Mycosis
Any disease caused by a fungus
277
Mydriasis
Extreme dilation of the pupil
278
Myelitis
Inflammation of the spinal cord or bone marrow
279
Myelosuppression
Bone marrow depression
280
Myocardial infarction (MI)
Death of heart muscle as a result of occlusion of coronary artery; a heart attack
281
Myoclonus
Muscular twitching
282
Myopathy
Any disease or condition affecting muscular tissue
283
Myopia
Nearsightedness
284
Myositis
Inflammation of muscle
285
Myotonia
Increased muscular irritability and contractility with decreased power of relaxation; tonic spasm of muscle
286
Myxedema
Advanced deficiency of thyroid hormones
287
Narcolepsy
Overwhelming attacks of sleep that the victim cannot inhibit
288
Necrosis
Death of tissue; usually as individual cells, group of cells, or in small, localized areas
289
Neonatal
Refers to the first four weeks of life
290
Neoplasm
Any new abnormal growth, such as a tumor
291
Nephritis
Inflammation of the kidney
292
Nephorlithiasis
Formation of renal stones
293
Nephrosis
Degeneration of the lining of renal tubules
294
Neuralgia
Severe, throbbing, or stabbing nerve pain
295
Neurocyte
Nerve cell of any kind; neuron
296
Nocturia
Excessive urination at night
297
Nocturnal
Night (hours of darkness); being active at night time such as rodents; opposite of diurnal
298
Nosocomial
indicates a new disorder, not the original patient condition, associated with being a hospital patient; usually used to describe a hospital-acquired infection
299
Nystagmus
Involuntary restlessness of the eyeball
300
Obesity
Increase in body weight beyond limitation of skeletal and physical requirements
301
Occlusion
Act of closing or being closed
302
Occult
Hidden or concealed (occult blood is that which has a change in appearance and is not readily recognizable)
303
Oliguria
Decreased volume of urine output
304
Ophthalmia
Severe inflammation of the eye or conjunctiva (ophthalmia neonatorum is gonorrheal conjunctivitis in the newborn)
305
Orchitis
Inflammation of testis
306
Orthostatic hypotension
Lowered blood pressure when a person changes from the supine position to an erect position
307
Osteoarthritis
Chronic, multiple degenerative joint diseases
308
Osteromalacia
Condition characterized by softening of the bones
309
Osteomyelitis
Inflammation of bone marrow and adjacent bone and epiphysial cartilage
310
Osteoporosis
Deterioration of bone, occurs particularly in elderly persons
311
Osteosclerosis
Abnormal hardening of bones
312
Otalgia
Pain in the ear (earache)
313
Oxytocic
Drug that selectively stimulates uterine motility, thereby accelerating delivery or childbirth
314
Oxyuriasis
Pinworm infection of the GI tract
315
Pallative
Relieving but not curing symptoms
316
Palpation
Act of feeling with the hand; application of the fingers with light pressure to the body surface to determine the consistency of the parts beneath
317
Palpitation
Unduly rapid action of the heart that is felt by the patient
318
Papilla
Small, nipple-shaped projections or elevations
319
Paracentesis
Surgical puncture of cavity for fluid aspiration
320
Paranoia
Chronic, slowly progressive mental disorder characterized by the development or suspicions into systemized delusions of persecution and grandeur that are built up in logical form
321
Paresis
Light or incomplete paralysis
322
Parasthesia
Morbid or perverted sensation; an abnormal sensation such as burning, prickling, or tingling
323
Paroxysm
Sudden recurrence or intensification of symptoms
324
Pathogenic
Causing a disease
325
Pediatrics
Branch of medicine that treats children
326
Percussion
Tapping on a surface to determine the difference in the density of the underlying structure
327
Pericardium
Membrane covering the heart
328
Perineum
The external surface between the vulva and anus in the female or the scrotum and anus in the male
329
Peripheral
Pertaining to the surface of the body
330
Peristalsis
Involuntary, progressive rhythmic contraction of muscles in the wall of the esophagus and other GI organs propelling a mass of food
331
Peritoneum
Membrane covering the abdominal cavity
332
Pericarditis
Inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart
333
Pertussis
Whooping cough
334
Petechiae
Pinpoint, non-raised, perfectly round, purplish-red spots caused by intradermal or subcutaneous hemorrhage; later turn blue or yellow
335
Phenylketonuria
Congenital faulty metabolism of phenylalanine that results in phenylpyruvic acid appearing in the urine
336
Pheochromocytoma
Tumor of the adrenal medulla tissue characterized by increased formation of catecholamines
337
Phlebitis
Inflammation of a vein
338
Photophobia
Abnormal intolerance to light
339
Plasmapheresis
Removal of plasma from withdrawn blood by means of centrifugation performed outside the body
340
Pleura
Membrane lining the chest cavity and lungs
341
Pleural effusion
Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space/cavity
342
Pneumonia
Acute inflammation and infection of alveoli
343
Pneumonitis
Localized, acute inflammation of the lung
344
Pneumothorax
Collection of air in the pleural space
345
Polycythemia
Excess number of red corpuscles in the blood
346
Polydipsia
Excess thirst pertaining for long periods
347
Polyp
Protruding growth form a mucous membrane; usually refers to a growth of the mucous membrane of the nose or GI tract
348
Polyphagia
Excessive or voracious eating
349
Polyuria
Passage of large volumes of urine in a given period of time
350
Porphyria
Disturbance of porphyrin metabolism, characterized my marked increase in formation and excretion of porphyrins or their precursors
351
Postural hypotension
Decrease in blood pressure caused by a sudden change in position (e.g., standing up suddenly)
352
Preeclampsia
Abnormal condition associated with pregnancy, marked by high blood pressure, proteinuria, and headache
353
Priapism
Persistent erection of the penis
354
Proctitis
Inflammation of the rectal area
355
Prognosis
Prediction of course and end of a disease
356
Prolapse
Downward displacement
357
Prophylactic
Something that prevents a disease or other undesirable effect
358
Prostate
Gland surrounding the urethra at the neck of the bladder in males
359
Prostatitis
Inflammation of the prostate gland
360
Prosthesis
The replacement of an absent body part by an artificial substitute
361
Prostration
Extreme exhaustion or powerlessness
362
Pruritis
itching
363
Psoriasis
Chronic, recurrent dermatosis marked by itchy, scaly, red plaques covered by silvery gray scales
364
Ptosis
Dropping of the upper eyelid caused by paralysis of the third cranial nerve
365
Ptyalism
Excessive secretion of saliva
366
Purpura
Condition characterized by collection of petechiae; often caused by capillary fragility
367
Purulent
Consisting of or containing pus
368
Pyelitis
Inflammation of the pelvis of the kidney
369
Pyelonephritis
Inflammation of the kidney and the renal pelvis
370
Pylorus
Aperture between the stomach and the duodenum
371
Pyoderma
Any skin discharge that contains pus
372
Pyogenic
Producing pus
373
Pyrexia
A fever or febrile condition
374
Rale
Any abnormal respiratory sound heard during auscultation (listening for sound within the body)
375
Refractory
Intractable
376
Regurgitation
Backward flowing, as the casing up of undigested food or the backward flowing of blood into the heart
377
Reticulocyte
Young red blood cell showing a basophilic reticulum under staining
378
Reticuloendothelial system
The system concerned with blood cell formation, phagocytic destruction of red blood cells, and the metabolism of iron and pigment
379
Retinal
Pertaining to the retina (the internal membrane of the eye)
380
Retinopathy
Noninflammatory degenerative changes of the retina
381
Retrograde
Going backward; retracing a fromer course
382
Rhinitis
Inflammation of mucous membranes of the nose during the common head cold; also a result of hay fever
383
Rhinorrhea
Free discharge of a thin nasal mucous
384
Rhonchi
Loud rumbling sounds heard on auscultation of bronchi obstructed by sputum
385
Sacral
Region of the sacrum (S1-S5)
386
Scleroderma
Systemic disease which may involve the connective tissues of any part of the body; the skin may be thickened, hard, and rigid with pigmented patches
387
Sclerosis
Hardening of tissues resulting in a loss of elasticity; results in the narrowing of blood vessel lumen
388
Seborrhea
Over secretion of sebaceous gland producing oiliness of the scalp and forehead, usually with itching or burning
389
Sepsis
Presence of pathogenic organisms or their toxins in blood or tissues
390
Septicemia
Disease of the blood caused by multiplication of microorganisms (formerly called blood poisoning)
391
Serum
Plasma from which fibrinogen has been removed
392
Siderosis
Excess of iron in the blood
393
Spondylitis
Inflammation of the vertebrae
394
Stasis
Stoppage of blood flow or other body fluid
395
Status epilepticus
Rapid succession of epileptic attacks without regaining consciousness
396
Steatorrhea
Excessive loss of fat in the feces
397
Stenosis
Narrowing or stricture of a duct canal
398
Stomatitis
Inflammation of the oral mucosa
399
Strabismus
A visual disorder caused by the turning of one or both eyes from the normal position; squinted or crossed eyes
400
Stridor
Strained, high-pitched sound heard on inspiration caused by obstruction in the pharynx or larynx
401
Sty
Inflammation of one or more of the sebaceous glands
402
Sublingual
Beneath the tongue
403
Sympathomimetic
Mimicking the effect of epinephrine and norepinephrine released in response to impulses conveyed by the adrenergic postganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system; opposite of sympatholytic
404
Symptom
Any evidence of disease; can have physical or mental characteristics
405
Syncope
Sudden loss of strength; temporary suspension of consciousness caused by cerebral anemia; a faint
406
Syndrome
The aggregate of the signs or symptoms of a disease occurring at the same time
407
Systole
The contraction or period of contraction of the heart chambers, especially that of the ventricles; it coincides with the interval between the first and second heart sound, during which the blood is forced into the aorta and the pulmonary trunk
408
Tachycardia
Excessive rapidity in the action of the heart; pulse rate above 100/min (tachyrhythmia)
409
Tenesmus
Straining, especially ineffectual and painful straining at stool or in urination
410
Teratogenic
Tending to produce abnormalities of formation (e.g., producing a severely deformed fetus)
411
Thoracentesis
Surgical puncture to remove fluid from the pleural space
412
Thoracic
Chest region (T1-T12)
413
Thoracotomy
Large surgical incision of the chest
414
Thrombocytopenia
Abnormally small number of platelets in the blood
415
Thromboembolism
Obstruction of a blood vessel with thrombus that has broken loose from its site of formation
416
Thrombogenic
Producing a blood clot
417
Thrombophlebitis
A condition in which inflammation of the vein wall has preceded the formation of the thrombus
418
Thrombus
A plug or clot in a blood vessel or in one of the cavities of the heart; formed by coagulation of the blood and remaining at the point of its formation
419
Thrush
Infection of the oral cavity caused by Candida albicans
420
Tic
Involuntary, repeated muscle spasm
421
Tinea
Ringworm
422
Tinnitus
A noise in the ears; ringing in the ear
423
Tolerance
Larger and larger drug doses must be given to achieve the desired effect
424
Toxoid
similar to toxin; a toxin that is treated to destroy its own toxicity but is still capable of inducing the formation of antibodies upon injection
425
Ulcer
Open sore on the skin or mucous membranes
426
Umbilical
Central abdominopelvic region near the navel
427
Uremia
An excess of urea and other nitrogenous waste in the blood
428
Urethra
Canal leading rom the bladder to discharge urine externally
429
Uricosuria
Excessive amount of uric acid in the urine
430
Urticaria
An allergic disorder caused by drug factors; marked by smooth, slightly elevated patches that are redder or paler than the surrounding skin and often accompanied by severe itching
431
Varicose
Unnaturally swollen, such as varicose veins
432
Vasoconstrictor
Agent that causes constriction of the smooth muscle in blood vessels
433
Vasodilation
Dilation of smooth muscle of a blood vessel, especially dilation of arterioles, that leads to increased blood flow
434
Vertigo
A subtype of dizziness; sensation as if the external world were revolving around the patient or as if he were revolving around space
435
Wheezes
Continuous high-pitched whistling sounds produced during breathing
436
Vesicle
Small collection of clear fluid; blister
437
Viltigo
Loss of pigment in areas of the skin
438
Wheal
Smooth, lightly elevated area on the body that is
439
Vesicle
Small collection of clear fluid; blister
440
Viltigo
Loss of pigment in areas of the skin
441
Wheal
Smooth, lightly elevated area on the body that is
442
Xanthomatosis
An accumulation of an excess of lipids in the body caused by disturbance of lipid metabolism and marked by the formation of fatty tumors
443
Xerophthalmia
Dryness of the eyeball caused by deficiency of vitamin A
444
Xerostomia
Dryness of the mouth from lack of normal secretion
444
Wheal
Smooth, lightly elevated area on the body that is redder or paler than the surrounding skin; it is often accompanied by severe itching and is usually evanescent
444
Vesicle
Small collection of clear fluid; blister
444
Viltigo
Loss of pigment in areas of the skin
