Medical Vocabulary Flashcards
Abdominal Ultrasound
A method of using sound waves to generate an image of abdominal organs; often used to diagnose liver cysts, gallstones, tissue abscesses, and abdominal organ enlargement
Absorption
The process by which valuable nutrients leave the digestive tract and enter the blood supply
Acid blocker
A group of drugs that block acid production in the stomach
Amylase
An enzyme that aids in the chemical breakdown of carbohydrates
Amylase blood test
A blood test used to detect elevated levels of an enzyme common in pancreatic disorders
Anal fistula
An abnormal, tube - like passageway that forms between the anas and the skin near the anus
Anorexia
Lack of or no appetite
Anorexia Nervosa
A condition involving self - deprivation of food and pathological weight loss
Antibiotic
A drug that fights or prevents bacterial infections
Antiemetic
A drug that prevents or relieves nausea and vomiting
Antiviral
A drug used to treat viral infections
Anus
The opening of the lower end of the digestive tract, through which fecal waste is eliminated
Appendicitis
Inflammation of the appendix; caused by a blockage that results in infection
Appendix
An organ that hangs from the lowest part of the cecum and which has no known function within the digestive system
Ascending colon
The part of the colon that extends upward from the cecum
Ascites
The abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
Bariatric Surgery
A term that encompasses the surgical treatments available for morbid obesity, including lap bands, gastric bypasses, and other similar procedures to reduce the size of the stomach or digestive tract
Barium enema; lower gastrointestinal (LGI) series
A special X - ray of the large intestine, including the rectum, using barium as a contrast medium
Bile
A yellowish brown or green fluid secreted by the liver bank to break down fatty boods
Borborygmus
The movement of gas and/or fluid through the digestive tract, producing grumbling noises
Bulimia nervosa
An eating disorder characterized by binge eating that is followed by induced vomiting, use of laxatives, and/or excessive exercise; often abbreviated to bulimia
Capsule Endoscopy
The visual examination in which a tiny, wireless camera is used to take pictures of the digestive tract
Cardiac Sphincter
A ring - like muscle at the end of the esophagus that controls that flow of substances between the esophagus and the stomach
Cecum
A pouch that connects to the ileum and forms the first part of the colon
