Abdominoperineal resection (A&P resection)

Removal of the colon and the rectum through both abdominal and perineal approaches.  Performed to treat colorectal cancer and inflammatory diseases of the lower large intestine.  The patient will have a colostomy.

Abortion

Termination of pregnancy by the expulsion from the uterus of an embryo before fetal viability, usually before 20 weeks gestation.

Abrasion

Scraping away of the skin by mechanical process or injury.

Abruptio placentae

Premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall.

Abscess

Localized collection of pus.

Acid-fast bacilli smear

A test performed on sputum to determine the presence of acid-fast bacilli, which cause tuberculosis.

Acidosis

Condition brought about by an abnormal accumulation of acid products of metabolism, seen frequently in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.

Acne

Inflammatory disease of the skin involving the sebaceous glands and hair follicles.

Acoustic neuroma

Benign tumor within the auditory canal growing from the acoustic nerve.  May cause hearing loss.

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

A disease that affects the body's immune system, transmitted by exchange of body fluid during the sexual act, reuse of contaminated needles, or receiving contaminated blood transfusions (also called acquired immune deficiency syndrome).

Actinic keratosis

A precancerous skin condition of horny tissue formation that results from excessive exposure to sunlight.  It may evolve into a squamous cell carcinoma.

Acute coronary syndrome

Sudden symptoms of insufficient blood supply to the heart indicating unstable angina or myocardial infarction.

Addison disease

Chronic syndrome resulting from a deficiency in the hormonal secretion of the adrenal cortex.  Symptoms may include weakness, darkening of skin, loss of appetite, depression, and other emotional problems.

Adenomyosis

Growth of endometrium into the muscular portion of the uterus.

Adhesion

Abnormal growing together of two surfaces that normally are separated.  This may occur after abdominal surgery; surgical treatment is called adhesiolysis or adhesiotomy.

Adipose

Fat, fatty.

Adult respiratory distress syndrome

Respiratory failure in an adult as a result of disease or injury.  Symptoms include dyspnea, rapid breathing, and cyanosis (also called acute respiratory distress syndrome).

Afferent

Conveying toward a center (for example, afferent nerves carry impulses to the central nervous system).

Airway

Passageway by which air enters and leaves the lungs as well as a mechanical device used to keep the air passageway unobstructed.

Albino

An individual with pigment deficiency in the eyes, hair, and skin.  A hereditary disorder.

Allergy

Hypersensitivity to a substance.

Alopecia

Loss of hair.

Alzheimer disease (AD)

Disease characterized by early senility, confusion, loss of recognition of persons or familiar surroundings, restlessness, and impaired memory.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Progressive muscular atrophy caused by hardening of nerve tissue on the lateral columns of the spinal cord.  Also called lou gehrig disease.

Anastomosis

Surgical connection between two normally distinct structures.

Anemia

Reduction in the amount of hemoglobin in the red blood cells.

Aneurysm

Ballooning of a weakened portion of an arterial wall.

Aneurysmectomy

Surgical excision of an aneurysm

Angina pectoris

Chest pain, which may radiate to the left arm and jaw, that occurs when there is an insufficient supply of blood to the heart.

Ankylosing spondylitis

Form of arthritis that first affects the spine and adjacent structures, and that, as it progresses, causes a forward bend of the spine (also called Strümpell-Marie arthritis or disease and rheumatoid spondylitis).

Anorexia nervosa

Psychoneurotic disorder characterized by a prolonged refusal to eat, resulting in emaciation, amenorrhea in females, and abnormal fear of becoming obese.  It occurs primarily in adolescents.

Anterior and posterior colporrhaphy (A&P repair)

When a weakened vaginal wall results in a cystocele (protrusion of the bladder against the anterior wall of the vagina) and a rectocele (protrusion of the rectum against the posterior wall of the vagina), an A&P repair corrects the condition.

Anticoagulant

Agent that slows the clotting process.

Arterial blood gases

A test performed on arterial blood to determine levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases present.

Artificial insemination

Introduction of semen into the vagina by artificial means.

Ascites

Abnormal collection of fluid in the peritoneal cavity.

Asphyxia

Deprivation of oxygen for tissue use; suffocation.

Aspirate

To withdraw fluid or to suction as well as to draw foreign material into the respiratory tract.

Asthma

Respiratory disease characterized by paroxysms of coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Astigmatism

Defective curvature of the refractive surface of the eye.

Ataxia

Lack of muscle coordination.

Auscultation

Hearing sounds within the body through a stethoscope.

Barium enema

Series of x-ray images taken of the large intestine after a barium enema has been administered.

Basal cell carcinoma

Epithelial tumor arising from the epidermis.  It seldom metastasizes but invades local tissue.  Common in individuals who have had excessive sun exposure.

Bell palsy

Paralysis of muscles on one side of the face, usually a temporary condition.  Symptoms include a sagging mouth on the affected side and non-closure of the eyelid.

Benign

Not malignant, non-recurrent, favourable for recovery

Blood pressure

Pressure exerted by the blood against the blood vessel walls.  A blood pressure measurement written as systolic pressure (120)/diastolic pressure (80) is commonly recorded as 120/80.

Blood urea nitrogen

A blood test that measures the amount of urea in the blood.  Used to determine kidney function.  An increased BUN indicates renal dysfunction.

Bone marrow biopsy

Needle puncture to remove bone marrow for study, usually from the sternum or ilium.  Used to diagnose blood cell diseases, such as leukemia and anemia.

Bone marrow transplant

Infusion of normal bone marrow cells from a donor with matching cells and tissue to a recipient with a certain type of leukemia or anemia.

Breast cancer

Malignant tumor of the breast.

Breech presentation

Parturition (act of giving birth) in which the buttocks, feet, or knees emerge first.

Bronchoconstrictor

Agent causing narrowing of the bronchi.

Bronchodilator

Agent causing the bronchi to widen.

Bulimia nervosa

An eating disorder involving gorging with food, followed by induced vomiting or laxative abuse.

Bunion

Abnormal enlargement of the joint at the base of the great toe.  It is a common problem, often hereditary or caused by poorly fitted shoes (also called hallux valgux)

Ca-125 (cancer antigen-125 tumor marker)

A blood test used in the detection of ovarian cancer.  It is also used to monitor treatment and to determine the extent of the disease.

Candidiasis

An infection of the skin, mouth, or vagina caused by the yeast-type fungus Candida albicans.  Candida is normally present in the mucous membranes; overgrowth causes an infection.  Esophageal candidiasis is often seen in patients with aids.

Carbuncle

Skin infection composed of a cluster of boils caused by staphylococcal bacteria.

Carcinoma in situ

Cancer in the early stages before invading surrounding tissue

Cardiac arrest

Sudden cessation of cardiac output and effective circulation, which requires cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Cardiac catheterization

An examination to determine the condition of the heart and surrounding blood vessels.  A catheter is passed into the heart through a blood vessel and is used to record pressures and inject a contrast medium, enabling the visualization of the great vessels and the heart chambers.  Used most frequently to evaluate chest pain and coronary artery disease.

Cardiac pacemaker

Battery-powered or nuclear-powered apparatus implanted under the skin to regulate the heart rate.

Cardiac tamponade

Acute compression of the heart caused by fluid accumulation in the pericardial cavity.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Emergency procedure consisting of artificial ventilation and external cardiac massage.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

A common, painful disorder of the wrist caused by compression of a nerve.

Cataract

Clouding of the lens of the eye.

Catheter

Flexible, tube-like device, such as a urinary catheter, for withdrawing or instilling fluids.

Cellulitis

Inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue caused by infection, leading to redness, swelling, and fever.

Cereberovascular accident (CVA)

Interruption of blood supply to the brain caused by a cerebral thrombosis, cerebral embolus, or cerebral hemorrhage.  The patient may experience mild to severe paralysis.  Also called stroke, or brain attack.

Cerebral aneurysm

Aneurysm in the cerebrum.

Cerebral palsy (CP)

Condition characterized by lack of muscle control and partial paralysis, caused by a brain defect or lesion present at birth or shortly after.

Ceruminoma

Tumor of a gland that secretes earwax (cerumen).

Cervical cancer

Malignant tumor of the cervix.

Cesarean section

The birth of a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus (may also be spelled caesarean).

Chalazion

Obstruction of an oil gland of the eyelid (also called meibomian cyst).

Chemotherapy

Treatment of cancer with drugs

Chest computed tomography scan

Computerized images of the chest created in sections sliced from front to back.  Used to diagnose tumors, abscesses, and pleural effusion.  Computed tomography is used to visualize other body parts such as the abdomen and the brain.

Chest x-ray

An x-ray image of the chest is used to evaluate the lungs and the heart (also called a chest radiograph).

Chiropodist, podiatrist

Specialist in treating and diagnosing diseases and disorders of the foot, including medical and surgical treatment.

Chiropractic

System of therapy that consists of manipulation of the vertebral column.

Chiropractor

Specialist in chiropractic.

Chlamydia

A sexually transmitted disease sometimes referred to as a silent STD because many people are not aware they have the disease.  Symptoms that occur when the disease becomes serious are painful urination and discharge from the penis in men and genital itching, vaginal discharge, and bleeding between menstrual periods in women.  The causative agent is C. Trachomatis.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

A group of disorders that are almost always a result of smoking that obstructs bronchial flow.  One or more of the following is present in COPD in varying degrees:  emphysema, chronic bronchitis, bronchospasm, and bronchiolitis.

Cicatrix

Scar.

Circumcision

Surgical removal of the prepuce (foreskin).

Cirrhosis

Chronic disease of the liver with gradual destruction of cells, most commonly caused by alcoholism.

Cleft lip and palate

Congenital split of the lip and roof of the mouth (cleft indicates a fissure).

Coagulation time

Blood test to determine the time it takes for blood to form a clot.

Coarctation of the aorta

Congenital cardiac condition characterized by a narrowing of the aorta.

Coccidioidomycosis

Fungal disease affecting the lungs and sometimes other organs of the body (also called valley fever  or cocci).

Cognitive

Pertaining to the mental processes of comprehension, judgment, memory, and reason.

Coitus

Sexual intercourse between male and female (also called copulation).

Colles fracture

A type of wrist fracture (the fracture is at the lower end of the radius, the distal fragment being displaced backward).

Coma

State of profound unconsciousness.

Complete blood count

Basic blood screening that includes tests on hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell morphology (size and shape), leukocyte count, and white blood cell differential (types of wbcs)

Computed tomography of the brain (CT scan)

Process that includes the use of a computer to produce a series of images of the tissues of the brain at any desired depth.  The procedure is non-invasive, painless, and particularly useful in diagnosing brain tumors.

Concussion

Jarring or shaking that results in an injury.  Brain concussions are caused by slight or severe head injury; symptoms include vertigo and loss of consciousness.

Condom

Cover for the penis worn during coitus.

Congenital anomaly

Abnormality present at birth.

Congenital heart disease

Heart abnormality present at birth.

Congestive heart failure

Inability of the heart to pump enough blood through the body to supply the tissues and organs.

Conization

The surgical removal of a cone-shaped area of the cervix.  Used in the treatment for non-invasive cervical cancer.

Conscious

Awake, alert, aware of one’s surroundings.

Contusion

Injury with no break in the skin, characterized by pain, swelling, and discolouration (bruise).

Convulsion

Sudden, involuntary contraction of a group of muscles (synonymous with seizure).

Cor pulmonale

Serious cardiac disease associated with chronic lung disorders, such as emphysema.

Coronary artery bypass graft

Surgical technique to bring a new blood supply to heart muscle by detouring around blocked arteries.

Coronary occlusion

Obstruction of an artery of the heart, usually from atherosclerosis (can lead to heart attack).

Coronary stent

A supportive scaffold device implanted in the coronary artery.

Cough

Sudden, noisy expulsion of air from the lungs.

Creatinine

A blood test that measures the amount of creatinine in the blood.  An elevated amount indicates impaired kidney function.

Cretinism

Condition caused by congenital absence or atrophy (wasting away) of the thyroid gland, resulting in hypothyroidism.  The disease is characterized by puffy features, mental deficiency, large tongue, and dwarfism.

Crohn disease

Chronic inflammation usually affecting the ileum, although it can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract.  It is characterized by cobblestone ulcerations along the intestinal wall and the formation of scar tissue and may cause obstruction.  It is also called regional ileitis or regional enteritis.

Croup

Condition resulting form acute obstruction of the larynx, characterized by a barking cough, hoarseness, and stridor.  It may be caused by viral or bacterial infection, allergy, or foreign body.  Occurs mainly in children.

Cryosurgery

The destruction of tissue by using extreme cold.  Used in the treatment of early stages of cervical cancer.

Cushing syndrome

Group of symptoms attributed to the excessive production of cortisol by the adrenal cortices (pl. Of cortex).  This syndrome may be the result of a pituitary tumor.  Symptoms include abnormally pigmented skin, “moon face”, pads of fat on the chest and abdomen, “buffalo hump” (fat on the upper back), and wasting away of muscle.

Cyst

A closed sac containing fluid or semisolid material.

Cystic fibrosis

Hereditary disorder of the endocrine glands characterized by excess mucus production in the respiratory tract, pancreatic deficiency, and other symptoms.

Cytomegalovirus

A herpes-type virus that usually causes disease when the immune system is compromised.

Debridement

Removal of contaminated or dead tissue and foreign matter from an open wound.

Deep vein thrombosis

Condition of thrombus in a deep vein of the body.  Most commonly in lower extremities.

Defibrillation

Application of an electric shock to the myocardium through the chest wall to restore normal cardiac rhythm.

Dementia

Loss of cognitive abilities.

Dermabrasion

Procedure to remove skin scars with abrasive material, such as sandpaper.

Detached retina

Separation of the retina from the choroid in the back of the eye.

Deviated septum

One part of the nasal cavity is smaller because of malformation or injury.

Diabetes insipidus (DI)

Result of decreased secretion of antidiuretic hormone by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland.  Symptoms include excessive thirst (polydipsia) and large amounts of urine (polyuria) and sodium being excreted from the body.

Diabetes mellitus (DM)

Chronic disease involving a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism.  Diabetes mellitus is caused by underactivity of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas, which results in insufficient production of insulin.  When the disease is not controlled or is untreated, the patient may develop ketosis, acidosis, and finally coma.

Diaphoresis

Profuse sweating.

Diarrhea

Frequent discharge of liquid stool.

Diastole

Phase of cardiac cycle when ventricles relax between contractions (diastolic is the lower number of a blood pressure reading).

Digital rectal examination

A physical examination in which the physician inserts a finger into the rectum and feels for the size and shape of the prostate gland through the rectal wall.  Used to screen for bph and cancer of the prostate.  Bph usually presents as a uniform, non-tender enlargement, whereas cancer usually presents as a stony hard nodule.

Digital subtraction angiography

X-ray imaging of the blood vessels that "subtracts" or removes structures not being studied.

Dilation and curettage

Dilation (widening) of the cervix and scraping of the endometrium with an instrument calling a curette.  It is performed to diagnose disease, to correct bleeding, and to empty uterine contents.

Disorientation

A state of mental confusion as to time, place, or identity.

Distended

Stretched out (a bladder is distended when filled with urine).

Diuretic

Agent that increases the formation and excretion of urine.

Doppler ultrasound

Uses sound for detection of blood flow within the vessels.  To assess claudication, DVT, other blood flow issues.

Down syndrome

Congenital condition characterized by varying degrees of mental retardation and multiple defects (formerly called mongolism).

Duodenal ulcer

Ulcer in the duodenum.

Dyscrasia

Abnormal or pathologic condition of blood.

Dysentery

Disorder that involves inflammation of the intestine associated with diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Dyspareunia

Difficult or painful intercourse.

Dysrhythmia

Any disturbance or abnormality in the heart's normal rhythmic pattern (arrhythmia).

Ecchymosis

Escape of blood into the tissues, causing superficial discolouration; a bruise.

Eclampsia

Severe complication and profression of preeclampsia characterised by convulsion and coma.  Eclampsia is a potentially life-threatening disorder.

Ectopic pregnancy

Pregnancy occurring outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tubes (salpingocyesis).

Eczema

Non-infectious, inflammatory skin disease characterized by redness, blisters, scabs, and itching.

Edema

Puffy swelling of tissue from the accumulation of fluid.

Efferent

Conveying away from the center (for example, efferent nerves carry information away from the central nervous system).

Ejaculation

Ejection of semen from the male urethra.

Embolectomy

Excision of an embolus or clot.

Embolus, pl. Emboli

Blood clot or foreign material (ex. Air, fat), that enters the blood and moves until it lodges at another point in the circulation.

Emmetropia

Normal refractive condition of the eye.

Emollient

Agent that softens or soothes the skin.

Emphysema

Stretching of lung tissue caused by the alveoli becoming distended and losing elasticity.

Encapsulated

Enclosed in a capsule, as with benign tumors

Endometrial ablation

A procedure to destroy or remove the endometrium by use of laser or thermal energy.  Used to treat abnormal uterine bleeding.

Endometrial cancer

Malignant tumor of the endometrium.  Also called uterine cancer.

Endometriosis

Abnormal condition in which endometrial tissue grows in various areas in the pelvic cavity, including ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, and uterus.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Radiographic (x-ray) examination of the bile and pancreatic ducts with contrast medium fluoroscopy, and endoscopy.

Endoscopic ultrasound

A procedure using an endoscope fitted with an ultrasound probe that provides images of layers of the intestinal wall. Used to detect tumors and cystic growths and for staging of malignant tumors.

Enucleation

Surgical removal of the eyeball (also, the removal of any organ that comes out clean and whole).

Enuresis

Involuntary urination (bed-wetting).

Epilepsy

Disorder in which the main symptom is recurring seizures.

Epispadias

Congenital defect in which the urinary meatus is located on the upper surface of the penis.

Epistaxis

Nosebleed (also called rhinorrhagia).

Erectile dysfunction

The inability of the male to attain or maintain an erection sufficient to perform sexual intercourse (formerly called impotence).

Erythema

Redness.

Erythroblastosis fetalis

Condition of the newborn characterized by hemolysis of the erythrocytes.  The condition is usually caused by incompatibility of the infant's and mother's blood (occurring when the mother's blood is Rh negative and the infant's blood is Rh positive).

Esophageal atresia

Congenital absence of part of the esophagus.  Food cannot pass from the baby's mouth to the stomach.

Estrogen replacement therapy

Replacement of hormones to treat menopause (also called hormone replacement therapy).

Evoked potential studies (EP studies)

A group of diagnostic tests that measure changes and responses in brain waves elicited by visual, auditory, or somatosensory stimuli.  Visual evoked response (ver) is a response to visual stimuli.  Auditory evoked response (aer) is a response to auditory stimuli.

Exacerbation

Increase in the severity of a disease or its symptoms

Exercise stress test

A study that evaluates cardiac function during physical stress by riding a bike or walking on a treadmill.  Electrocardiography, echocardiography, and nuclear medicine scanning are three types of tests performed to measure cardiac function while exercising.  Echocardiography is fast becoming the preferred choice of testing over electrocardiography.

Exophthalmos

Abnormal protrusion of the eyeball.

Exostosis

Abnormal benign growth on the surface of bone (also called spur).

Extracorporeal

Occurs when blood is diverted outside the body to a heart-lung machine.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy

A non-invasive treatment for removal of kidney or ureteral stone(s).  By using ultrasound and fluoroscopic imaging, the stone is positioned at a focal point.  Repeated firing of shock waves renders the stone into fragments that pass from the body in the urine (also called shock wave lithotripsy [SWL]).

Extravasation

Escape of blood from the blood vessel into the tissue.

Fasting blood sugar (FBS)

A blood test to determine the amount of glucose in the blood after fasting for 8 to 10 hours.  Elevation indicates diabetes mellitus.

Fecal occult blood test (guaiac test)

A test to detect occult blood in feces.  It is used to screen for colon cancer or polyps.  Occult blood refers to blood that is present but can only be viewed microscopically. Trade names for commercial test kits include: Hema-Check, Colo-Rect, and Hematest.

Feces

Waste from the digestive tract expelled through the rectum (also called a bowel movement, stool, or fecal matter).

Femoropopliteal bypass

Surgery to establish an alternate route from femoral artery to popliteal artery to bypass an obstruction.

Fibrillation

Rapid, quivering, non-coordinated contractions of the atria or ventricles.

Fibrocystic breast disease

A disorder characterized by one or more benign cysts in the breast.

Fibroid tumor

Benign fibroid tumor of the uterine muscle (also called myoma of the uterus or leiomyoma).

Fissure

Slit or crack-like sore in the skin.

Fistula

Abnormal passageway between two organs or between an internal organ and the body surface.

Flatus

Gas in the digestive tract or expelled through the anus.

Fracture

Broken bone.

Fulguration

Destruction of living tissue with an electric spark (a method commonly used to remove bladder growths).

Furuncle

Painful skin node caused by staphylococcal bacteria in a hair follicle (boil).

Gait

A manner or style of walking.

Gangrene

Death of tissue caused by loss of blood supply followed by bacterial invasion.

Gastric lavage

Washing out the stomach.

Gastric ulcer

Ulcer in the stomach.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

The abnormal backward flow of the gastrointestinal contents into the esophagus, gradually breaking down the mucous barrier of the esophagus.

Gastroschisis

A congenital fissure of the abdominal wall not at the umbilicus.  Enterocele, protrusion of the intestine, is usually present.

Gavage

Process of feeding a person through a nasogastric tube.

Genital herpes

Sexually transmitted disease caused by Herpes virus hominis type 2 (also called herpes simplex virus)

Gigantism

Condition brought about by overproduction of growth hormone by the pituitary gland before puberty.

Glaucoma

Eye disorder characterized by optic nerve damage usually caused by the abnormal increase of intraocular pressure.  If not treated it will lead to blindness.

Goiter

Enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Gonads

Male and female sex glands.

Gonorrhea

Contagious, inflammatory sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacterial organism that affects the mucous membranes of the genitourinary system.

Gout

Disease in which an excessive amount of uric acid in the blood causes sodium urate crystals (tophi) to be deposited in the joints, especially that of the great toe.

Graves disease

A disorder of the thyroid gland characterized by the presence of hyperthyroidism, goiter, and exophthalmos.

Heart murmur

Short-duration humming sound of cardiac or vascular origin.

Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) antibodies test

A blood test to determine the presence of H. Pylori bacteria. The bacteria can be found in the lining of the stomach and can cause peptic ulcers. Tests for H. Pylori are also performed on biopsy specimens and by breath test.

Hematemesis

Vomiting of blood.

Hemochromatosis

An iron metabolism disorder that occurs when too much iron is absorbed from food, resulting in excessive deposits of iron in the tissue.  Can cause congestive heart failure, diabetes, cirrhosis, or cancer of the liver.

Hemodialysis

Procedure for removing impurities from the blood because of an inability of the kidneys to do so.

Hemoglobin

Blood test used to determine the concentration of oxygen-carrying components (hemoglobin) in red blood cells.

Hemophilia

Inherited bleeding disorder most commonly caused by a deficiency of the coagulation factor VIII.

Hemorrhage

Rapid flow of blood.

Hemorrhoid

Varicose vein in the rectal area, which may be internal or external.

Hemorrhoidectomy

Excision of hemorrhoids, the varicosed veins in the rectal region.

Herniated disk

Rupture of the intervertebral disk cartilage, which allows the contents to protrude through it, putting pressure on the spinal nerve roots (also called slipped disk, ruptured disk, herniated intervertebral disk, or herniated nucleus pulposus).

Herpes

Inflammatory skin disease caused by herpes virus characterized by small blisters in clusters.  Herpes simplex causes fever blisters; herpes zoster (shingles) is characterized by painful skin eruptions that follow nerves inflamed by the virus.

Heterosexual

Person who is attracted to a member of the opposite sex.

Hiccup

Sudden catching of breath with a spasmodic contraction of the diaphragm (also called hiccough).

Hodgkin disease

Malignant disorder of the lymph tissue (progressive enlargement of lymph nodes), usually starts in the cervical nodes.

Homosexual

Person who is attracted to a member of the same sex.

Hormone

A chemical substance secreted by an endocrine gland that is carried in the blood to a target tissue.

Human immunodeficiency virus

A type of retrovirus that causes AIDS.  HIV infects T-helper cells of the immune system allowing for opportunistic infections such as candidiasis, P. Carinii pneumonia, tuberculosis, and Kaposi sarcoma.

Human papilloma virus

A prevalent sexually transmitted disease causing benign or cancerous growths in male and female genitals (also called venereal warts).

Hydrocele

Scrotal swelling caused by a collection of fluid.

Hydrocelectomy

Surgical removal of a hydrocele.

Hydrocephalus

Increased amount of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain, which can cause enlargement of the cranium.

Hyperopia

Farsightedness.

Hypertension

Blood pressure that is above normal (greater than 140/90).

Hypertensive heart disease

Disorder of the heart brought about by persistent high blood pressure.

Hyperventilation

Ventilation of the lungs beyond normal body needs.

Hypospadias

Congenital defect in which the urinary meatus is located on the underside of the penis; a similar defect can occur in the female.

Hypotension

Blood pressure that is below normal (less than 90/60).

Hypoventilation

Ventilation of the lungs that does not fulfill the body's gas exchange needs.

Idiopathic

Pertaining to disease of unknown origin

Ileus

Obstruction of the intestine, often caused by failure of peristalis (the wave-like motion the intestine does).

Impedance plethysmography

Measures venous flow of the extremities with a plethysmography to detect clots by measuring the changes in blood volume and resistance (impedance) in the vein.  Used to detects DVT.

Impetigo

Superficial skin infection characterized by pustules and caused by either staphylococci or streptococci.

Implantable cardiac defibrillator

A device implanted in the body that continuously monitors the heart rhythm.  If life threatening dysrhythmias occur the device delivers an electric shock to convert the dysrhythmia back to a normal rhythm.

In vitro

Within a glass, observable within a test tube

In vivo

Within the living body

Incoherent

Unable to express one’s thoughts or ideas in an orderly, intelligible manner.

Incontinence

Inability to control bladder and/or bowels.

Induration

Abnormal hard spot(s).

Inflammation

Response to injury or destruction of tissue characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain

Influenza

Highly infectious respiratory disease caused by a virus (also called flu).

Intermittent claudication

Pain and discomfort in calf muscles while walking.  A condition seen in occlusive artery disease.

Intracoronary thrombolytic therapy

An injection of an IV medication to dissolve blood clots in coronary vessels.

Intussusception

Telescoping of a segment of the intestine

Irritable bowel syndrome

Periodic disturbances of bowel function, such as diarrhea and/or constipation, usually associated with abdominal pain.

Isthmus

Narrow strip of tissue connecting two large parts in the body, such as the isthmus that connects the two lobes of the thyroid gland.

Jaundice

Condition characterized by a yellow tinge to the skin.

Kaposi sarcoma

A cancerous condition stating as purple or brown papules on the lower extremities that spreads through the skin to the lymph nodes and internal organs.  Frequent with AIDS.

Keloid

Overgrowth of scar tissue.

Ketosis

Condition resulting from uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, in which the body has an abnormal concentration of ketone bodies (compounds that are a normal product of fat metabolism).

KUB (kidney, ureter, and bladder)

A simple x-ray image of the abdomen.  It is often used to view the kidneys, ureters, and bladder to determine size, shape, and location.  Also used to identify calculi in the kidney ureters or bladder or to diagnose intestinal obstruction.

Laceration

Torn, ragged-edged wound.

Laparoscopy or laparoscopic surgery

Visual examination of the abdominal cavity, accomplished by inserting a laparoscope through a tiny incision near the umbilicus.  It is used for surgical procedures such as tubal sterilization (blocking of the fallopian tubes), hysterectomy, oophorectomy, or biopsy of the ovaries.  It may also be used to diagnose endometriosis.

Laser angioplasty

Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (laser) to open blocked arteries, lower extremities.

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis)

A laser procedure that reshapes the corneal tissue beneath the surface of the cornea to correct astigmatism, hyperopia, and myopia.  Lasik is a combination of excimer laser and lamellar keratoplasty.  It differs from prk in that it reshapes corneal tissue beneath the surface rather than on the surface.

Legionnaire disease

A lobar pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila.

Lesion

Any visible change in tissue resulting from injury or disease.  It is a broad term that includes sores, wounds, ulcers, and tumors.

Leukemia

A malignant disease.  Excessive increase in abnormal white blood cells formed in the bone marrow.

Leukoplakia

Condition characterized by white spots or patches on mucous membrane, which may be precancerous.

Lochia

Vaginal discharge after childbirth.

Lumbar puncture (LP)

Insertion of a needle into the subarachnoid space usually between the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae.  It is performed for many reasons, including the removal of cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic purposes.

Lumen

Space within a tubular part or organ, such as the space within a blood vessel.

Macular degeneration

A progressive deterioration of the portion of the retina called the macula lutea, resulting in loss of central vision.

Macule

Flat, coloured spot on the skin.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain (MRI scan)

A non-invasive technique that produces cross-sectional and sagittal images of soft tissues of the brain by magnetic waves.  Unlike ct scan, mri produces images without use of radiation.  It is used to visualize tumors, edema, multiple sclerosis, and herniated disks.

Malignant

Tending to become progressively worse and to cause death, as in cancer

Meconium

First stool of the newborn (greenish black).

Melena

Black, tarry stool that contains digested blood.  Usually a result of bleeding in the upper GI tract.

Ménière disease

Chronic disease of the inner ear characterized by dizziness and ringing in the ear and hearing loss.

Menopause

Cessation of menstruation, usually around the ages of 48 to 53 years.

Metabolism

Sum total of all the chemical processes that take place in a living organism.

Micturate

To urinate or void.

Miotic

Agent that constricts the pupil.

Mitral commissurotomy

Surgical procedure to repair a stenosed mitral valve by breaking apart the leaves of the valve.

Mitral valve stenosis

A narrowing of the mitral valve from scarring, usually caused by episodes of rheumatic fever.

Mucopurulent

Containing both mucus and pus.

Mucus

Slimy fluid secreted by the mucous membranes.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Degenerative disease characterized by sclerotic patches along the brain and spinal cord.

Muscular dystrophy

Group of hereditary diseases characterized by degeneration of muscle and weakness.

Myasthenia gravis

Chronic disease characterized by muscle weakness and thought to be caused by a defect in the transmission of impulses from nerve to muscle cell.  The face, larynx, and throat are frequently affected; no true paralysis of the muscles exists.

Mydriatic

Agent that dilates the pupil.

Myocardial infarction

Death of some of myocardium caused by lack of oxygen from interrupted blood supply (heart attack).

Myomectomy

Excision of a fibroid tumor (myoma) from the uterus.

Myopia

Nearsightedness.

Myxedema

Condition resulting from a deficiency of the thyroid hormone thyroxine.  A severe form of hypothyroidism in an adult.  Symptoms include puffiness of the face and hands, coarse and thickened skin, enlarged tongue, slow speech, and anemia.

Nausea

Urge to vomit.

Nebulizer

Device that creates a mist used to deliver medication for giving respiratory treatment.

Neurosis (pl. Neuroses)

Emotional disorder that involves an ineffective way of coping with anxiety or inner conflict.

Nevus (pl. Nevi)

Circumscribed malformation of the skin, usually brown, black, or flesh coloured.  A congenital nevus is present at birth and is referred to as a birthmark (also called mole).

Nodule

A small knot-like mass that can be felt by touch.

Nosocomial infection

An infection acquired during hospitalization.

Nyctalopia

Poor vision at night or in faint light.

Nystagmus

Involuntary, jerking movements of the eyes.

Obesity

Excess of body fat (not body weight).

Obstetrician

Physician who specializes in obstetrics.

Obstetrics

Medical specialty dealing with pregnancy, childbirth, and puerperium.

Obstructive sleep apnea

Repetitive pharyngeal collapse during sleep, which leads to absence of breathing.

Occlude

To close tightly, to block.

Oculus dexter (OD)

Medical term for right eye.

Oculus sinister (OS)

Medical term for left eye.

Oculus uterque (OU)

Medical term for each eye.

Optician

A specialist who fills prescriptions for lenses (cannot prescribe lenses).

Optometrist

A health professional who prescribes corrective lenses and/or eye exercises.

Orgasm

Climax of sexual stimulation.

Orthopaedist

Physician who specializes in orthopedics.

Orthopedics

Branch of medicine dealing with the study and treatment of diseases and abnormalities of the musculoskeletal system.

Orthotics

Making and fitting of orthopedic appliances, such as arch supports, used to support, align, prevent, or correct deformities.

Orthotist

A person who specializes in orthotics.

Osteopath

Physician who specializes in osteopathy.

Osteopathy

System of medicine that uses the usual forms of diagnosis and treatment but places greater emphasis on the role of the relation between body organs and the musculoskeletal system; manipulation may be used in addition to other treatments.

Osteoporosis

Abnormal loss of bone density occurring frequently in postmenopausal women.

Otitis externa

Inflammation of the outer ear.

Otitis media (OM)

Inflammation of the middle ear.

Ovarian cancer

Malignant tumor of the ovary.

Pallor

Paleness.

Pap smear

A cytological study of cervical and vaginal secretions used to determine the presence of abnormal or cancerous cells.  Most commonly used to detect cancers of the cervix (also called Papanicolaou smear and Pap test).

Papule

Small, solid skin elevation (pimple).

Paraplegia

Paralysis from the waist down caused by damage to the lower level of the spinal cord.

Parkinson disease (PD)

Chronic degenerative disease of the central nervous system.  Symptoms include resting tremors of the hands and feet, rigidity, expressionless face, and shuffling gait.  It usually occurs after the age of 50 years.

Paroxysm

Periodic, sudden attach.

Parturition

Act of giving birth.

Patent

Open (an airway must be patent).

Pediculosis

Invasion into the skin and hair by lice.

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Inflammation of the female pelvic organs.

Penile implant

Surgical implantation of a penile prosthesis to correct erectile dysfunction.

Peptic ulcer

Another name for gastric or duodenal ulcer.

Percussion

Tapping of a body surface with the fingers to determine the density of the part beneath.

Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty

Procedure in which a balloon is passed through a blood vessel into a coronary artery to the area where plaque is formed.  Inflation of the balloon compresses the plaque against the vessel wall.

Peripheral arterial disease

Disease of the arteries, other than those of the heart and brain, that affects blood circulation, such as atherosclerosis and Raynaud disease.  Symptom of peripheral atherosclerosis is intermittent claudication.

Peristalsis

Involuntary wavelike contractions that propel food along the digestive tract.

Peritoneal dialysis

Procedure for removing toxic wastes when the kidney is unable to do so; the peritoneal cavity is used as the receptacle for the fluid used in the dialysis.

Pertussis

Respiratory disease characterized by an acute crowing inspiration, or whoop (also called whooping cough).

Petechia (pl. Petechiae)

Pinpoint skin hemorrhages.

Phacoemulsification

Method to remove cataracts in which an ultrasonic needle probe breaks up the lens, which is then aspirated.

Phimosis

A tightness of the prepuce (foreskin of the penis) that prevents its retraction over the glans.  May be congenital or a result of balanitis.  Circumcision is the usual treatment.

Placenta previa

Abnormally low implantation of the placenta on the uterine wall.  (Dilatation of the cervix can cause separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, resulting in bleeding.  With severe hemorrhage, a cesarean section may be necessary to save the mother's life).

Plasma

Liquid portion of the blood in which elements or cells are suspended and that contains some of the clotting factors.

Pleural effusion

Escape of fluid into the pleural space as a result of inflammation.

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia

A pneumonia caused by P. Carinii, a fungus.  Common disease in patients with AIDS.

Polycystic kidney disease

Condition in which the kidney contains many cysts and is enlarged.

Polyp

Tumor-like growth extending outward from a mucous membrane.  Usually benign; common sites are in the nose, throat, and intestine.

Positron emission tomography of the brain (PET scan)

An imaging technique with a radioactive substance that permits viewing a slice of the brain to examine blood flow and metabolic activity.  Images are projected on a viewing screen.

Preeclampsia

Abnormal condition encountered during pregnancy or shortly after delivery characterized by high blood pressure, edema, and proteinuria, but with no convulsions or coma.  The cause is unknown; if not successfully treated the condition will progress to eclampsia.  Eclampsia is the third most common cause of maternal death in the US after hemorrhage and infection.

Premature infant

Infant born before completing 37 weeks of gestation.

Premenstrual syndrome

A syndrome involving physical and emotional symptoms occurring in the 10 days before menstruation.  Symptoms include nervous tension, irritability, mastalgia, edema, and headache.  Its cause is not fully understood.

Presbycusis

Hearing impairment in old age.

Presbyopia

Impaired vision as a result of aging.

Priapism

Persistent abnormal erection of the penis accompanied by pain and tenderness.

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy)

A procedure for the treatment of nearsightedness in which an Excimer laser is used to reshape (flatten) the corneal surface by removing a portion of the cornea.

Prolapsed uterus

Downward displacement of the uterus in the vagina (also called hysteroptosis).

Prostate cancer

Cancer of the prostate gland.

Prostate-specific antigen

A blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood.  Elevated test results may indicate the presence of prostate cancer.

Prosthesis

An artificial replacement of an absent body part.

Prosthesis (pl. Prostheses)

An artificial substitute for a missing body part such as a leg, eye, or total hip replacement.

Prothrombin time

Blood test used to determine certain coagulation activity defects and to monitor anticoagulation therapy for patients taking Coumadin, an oral anticoagulant medication.  (Activated partial thromboplastin time [PTT] is used to monitor anticoagulation therapy for patients taking heparin, an intravenous anticoagulant medication.)

Pruritus

Severe itching.

Psoriasis

Chronic skin condition producing red lesions covered with silvery scales.

Psychosis (pl. Psychoses)

Major mental disorder characterized by extreme derangement, often with delusions and hallucinations.

Pterygium

Thin tissue growing into the cornea from the conjunctiva, usually caused from sun exposure.

Puberty

Period when secondary sex characteristics develop and the ability to reproduce sexually begins.

Puerperium

Period from delivery until the reproductive organs return to normal (approximately 6 weeks).

Pulmonary edema

Fluid accumulation in the alveoli and bronchioles.

Pulmonary embolism (pl. Emboli)

Foreign matter, such as a blood clot, air, or fat clot, carried in the circulation to the pulmonary artery, where it blocks circulation.

Pulmonary function tests

A group of tests performed to measure breathing, which is used to determine respiratory function or abnormalities.

Pulse oximetry

A non-invasive method of measuring oxygen in the blood by using a device that attaches to the fingertip.

Purified protein derivative skin test

A test performed on individuals who have recently been exposed to tuberculosis.  PPD of the tuberculin bacillus is injected intradermally.  Positive tests indicate previous exposure, not necessarily active tuberculosis.

Purpura

Disorder characterized by hemorrhages into the tissue, giving the skin a purple - red discolouration.

Pustule

Elevation of skin containing pus.

Radiation therapy

Treatment of cancer with a radioactive substance, x-ray, or radiation

Radioactive iodine uptake test (RAIU)

A nuclear medicine scan that measures thyroid function.  Radioactive iodine is given to the patient orally, after which its uptake into the thyroid gland is measured.

Reflux

Abnormal backward flow.  In esophageal reflux, the stomach contents flow back into the esophagus.

Remission

Improvement or absence of signs of disease.

Renal calculi

Stones in the kidney.

Renal hypertension

Elevated blood pressure resulting from kidney disease.

Renal transplant

Surgical implantation of a donor kidney to replace a non-functioning kidney.

Respiratory distress syndrome

A respiratory complication in the newborn, especially in premature infants.  In premature infants RDS is caused by normal immaturity of the respiratory system resulting in compromised respiration (formerly called hyaline membrane disease).

Retinal photocoagulation

A procedure to repair tears in the retina by use of an intense, precisely focused light beam, which caused coagulation of the tissue protein.

Retinitis pigmentosa

Hereditary, progressive disease marked by night blindness with atrophy and retinal pigment changes.

Reye syndrome

Disease of the brain and other organs such as the liver.  Affects children and adolescents.  The cause is unknown, but it typically follows a viral infection.

Rheumatic fever

An inflammatory disease, usually in children and often after respiratory tract streptococcal infection.

Rheumatic heart disease

Damage to the heart muscle or heart valves caused by one or more episodes of rheumatic fever.

Rheumatoid arthritis

A chronic systemic disease characterized by autoimmune inflammatory changes in the connective tissue throughout the body.

Scabies

Skin infection caused by the itch mite, characterized by papule eruptions that are caused by the female burrowing in the outer layer of the skin and laying eggs.  This condition is accompanied by severe itching.

Sciatica

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve, causing pain that travels from the thigh through the leg to the foot and toes.  Can be caused by injury, infection, arthritis, herniated disk, or from prolonged pressure on the nerve from sitting for long periods.

Scleral buckling

A procedure to repair a detached retina.  A strip of sclera is resected, or a fold is made in the sclera.  An exoplant is used to hold and buckle the sclera.

Scleroderma

A disease characterized by chronic hardening (induration) of the connective tissue of the skin and other body organs.

Seizure

Sudden attack with an involuntary series of contractions (synonymous with convulsion).

Sentinel lymph node biopsy

An injection of blue dye and/or radioactive isotope is used to identify the sentinel lymph nodes, the first in the axillary chain, and most likely to contain metastasis of breast cancer.  The nodes are removed and microscopically examined.  If negative no more nodes are removed.

Sepsis

A condition in which pathogenic microorganisms, usually bacteria, enter the bloodstream, causing a systemic inflammatory response to the infection (also called septicemia).

Serum

Liquid portion of the blood without the clotting factors.

Sexually transmitted disease

Diseases, such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and genital herpes, transmitted during sexual contact (also called venereal disease).

Shingles

Development of painful, inflamed blisters that follow the nerve routes.  Caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. (also called herpes zoster).

Shingles

Viral disease that affects the peripheral nerves and causes blisters on the skin that follow the course of the affected nerves.  Also called herpes zoster.

Shunt

Tube implanted in the body to redirect the flow of a fluid.

Sickle cell anemia

A hereditary, chronic hemolytic disease, crescent- or sickle-shaped red blood cells.  It is incurable.

Single-photon emission computed tomography

Nuclear medicine scan that visualizes the heart from several different angles.  A tracer substance such as sestamibi or thallium is injected intravenously.  The SPECT scanner creates images from the tracer absorbed by the body tissues.  It is used to assess damage to cardiac tissue.

Specific gravity

A test performed on a urine specimen to measure the concentrating or diluting ability of the kidneys.

Speculum

Instrument for opening a body cavity to allow visual inspection.

Sphygmomanometer

Device used for measuring BP.

Spina bifida (divided spine)

Congenital defect in the vertebral column caused by failure of the vertebral arch to close.  If the meninges protrude through the opening, the condition is called meningocele.  Protrusion of both the meninges and spinal cord is called meningomyelocele.

Sputum

Mucous secretion from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea expelled through the mouth.

Squamous cell carcinoma

A malignant growth that develops from scale-like epithelial tissue.  On the skin it appears as a firm, red, painless bump.  The most frequent cause is chronic exposure to sunlight.

Stereotactic breast biopsy

A technique that combines mammography and computer-assisted biopsy to obtain tissue from a breast lesion.

Sterilization

Process that renders an individual unable to produce offspring.

Stethoscope

An instrument used to hear sounds produced by the heart, lungs, and bowels.

Strabismus

Abnormal condition of squint or crossed eyes caused by the visual axes not meeting at the same point.

Stricture

Abnormal narrowing, such as a urethral stricture.

Sty

Infection of an oil gland of the eyelid.  Also spelled stye and also called hordeolum).

Suprapubic prostatectomy

Excision of the prostate gland through an abdominal incision made above the pubic bone.  Used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer.

Syncope

Fainting or sudden loss of consciousness caused by lack of blood supply to the cerebrum.

Syphilis

Infectious sexually transmitted disease having lesions that can affect any organ or tissue; a syphilitic mother may transmit the disease to her unborn infant because the causative organism is able to pass through the placenta.

Systemic lupus erythematosus

A chronic inflammatory disease involving the skin, joints, kidneys, and nervous system.  This autoimmune disease is characterized by periods of remission and exacerbations.  It also may affect other organs.

Systole

Phase of cardiac cycle when ventricles contract (systolic is the upper number of a blood pressure reading).

Testicular carcinoma

Cancer of the testicle.

Testicular torsion

Twisting of the spermatic cord causing decreased blood flow to the testis.  Occurs most often during puberty.  Because of a lack of blood flow to the testis, it is often considered a surgical emergency.

Tetany

Condition affecting nerves causing muscle spasms as a result of low amounts of calcium in the blood caused by a deficiency of the parathyroid hormone.

Thallium test

Nuclear medicine test to diagnose coronary artery disease (used after coronary artery bypass surgery.  Radioactive isotope used.

Thyroid scan

A nuclear medicine test that shows the size, shape, and position of the thyroid gland.  The patient is given a radioactive substance to visualize the thyroid gland.  An image is recorded as the scanner is passed over the neck area.  Used to detect tumors and nodules.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone level (TSH) (thyrotropin)

A blood test that measures the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood.  Used to diagnose hyperthyroidism and to monitor patients on thyroid replacement therapy.

Thyrotoxicosis

A condition caused by excessive thyroid hormones.

Thyroxine level (T4)

A blood study that gives the direct measurement of the amount of thyroxine in the patient’s blood.  A greater-than-normal amount indicates hyperthyroidism; a less-than-normal amount indicates hypothyroidism.

Tinea

Fungus infection of the skin (also called ringworm).

Tinnitus

Ringing in the ears.

Toxic shock syndrome

A severe illness characterized by high fever, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, and myalgia, followed by hypotension and, in severe cases, shock and death.  Usually affects menstruating women using tampons.  Caused by staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus pyogenes.

Trabeculectomy

Surgical creation of a drain to reduce intraocular pressure (used to treat glaucoma).

Transesophageal echocardiogram

Ultrasound test that examines cardiac function.  Probe placed in esophagus, which views heart structures.

Transient ischemic attach (TIA)

Sudden deficient supply of blood to the brain lasting a short time.  The symptoms may be similar to those of cva, but with tia the symptoms are temporary and the usual outcome is complete recovery.

Transrectal ultrasound

An ultrasound procedure used to diagnose prostate cancer.  Sound waves are obtained by placing a probe into the rectum.  The sound waves are transformed into an image of the prostate gland.

Transurethral incision of the prostate gland

A surgical procedure that widens the urethra by making a few small incisions in the bladder neck and the prostate gland.  No prostate tissue is removed.  TUIP may be used instead of TURP when the prostate gland is less enlarged.

Transurethral microwave thermotherapy

A treatment that eliminates excess cells present in benign prostatic hyperplasia by using heat generated by microwave.

Transurethral resection of the prostate gland

Successive pieces of the prostate gland tissue are resected by using a resectoscope inserted through the urethra.  The capsule is left intact.  Usually performed when the enlarged prostate gland interferes with urination.

Transvaginal sonography

An ultrasound procedure that uses a transducer placed in the vagina to obtain images of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes and surrounding structures.  Used to diagnose masses such as ovarian cysts or tumors, to monitor pregnancy, and to evaluate ovulation for the treatment of infertility.

Trichomoniasis

A sexually transmitted disease caused by a one-cell organism, Trichomonas.  It infects the genitourinary tract.  Men may be asymptomatic or may develop urethritis, an enlarged prostate gland, or epididymitis.  Women have vaginal itching, dysuria, and vaginal or urethral discharge.

Tubal ligation

Closure of the fallopian tubes for sterilization.

Tuberculosis

An infectious disease, caused by an acid-fast bacillus, most commonly spread by inhalation of small particles and usually affecting the lungs.

Ulcer

Eroded sore on the skin or mucous membrane.

Ulcerative colitis

Inflammation of the colon with the formation of ulcers.  The main symptom is diarrhea (as many as 15 – 29 stools per day).  An ileostomy may be performed to treat this condition.

Unconsciousness

State of being unaware of surroundings and incapable of responding to stimuli as a result of injury, shock, or illness.

Upper gastrointestinal (GI)  series

Series of x-ray images taken of the stomach and duodenum after barium has been swallowed.

Upper respiratory infection

Infection of the nasal cavity, pharynx, or larynx.

Urinal

Receptacle for urine.

Urinalysis

Multiple routine tests performed on a urine specimen.

Urinary catheterization

Passage of a catheter into the urinary bladder to withdraw urine.

Urinary retention

Abnormal accumulation of urine in the bladder because of an inability to urinate.

Urinary suppression

Sudden stoppage of urine formation.

Urinary tract infection

Infection of one or more organs of the urinary tract.

Urodynamics

Pertaining to the force and flow of urine within the urinary tract.

Urticaria

An itching skin eruption composed of wheals of varying size and shape.  It is usually related to an allergy (also called hives).

Vagotomy

Cutting of certain branches of the vagus nerve, performed with gastric surgery to reduce the amount of gastric acid produced and thus reduce the recurrence of ulcers.

Varicocele

Enlarged veins of the spermatic cord.

Varicose veins

(Varicosities).  Distended or tortuous veins usually found in the lower extremities.

Vasoconstrictor

Agent or nerve that narrows the blood vessels.

Vasodilator

Agent or nerve that enlarges the blood vessels.

Venipuncture

Puncture of a vein to remove blood, instil medication or start IV.

Ventilation-perfusion scanning

A nuclear medicine procedure used to diagnose pulmonary embolism and other conditions (also called a lung scan).

Ventilator

Mechanical device used to assist with or substitute for breathing when patient cannot breathe unassisted.

Verruca

Circumscribed cutaneous elevation caused by a virus (also called wart).

Vertigo

A sense that either one’s own body (subjective vertigo) or the environment (objective vertigo) is revolving.  May indicate inner ear disease.

Vesicle

Small elevation of the epidermis containing liquid (also called blister).

Vesicovaginal fistula

Abnormal opening between the bladder and the vagina.

Virus

An infectious agent.

Visual acuity (VA)

Sharpness of vision for either distance or nearness.

Vitrectomy

Surgical removal of all or part of the vitreous humor (used to treat diabetic retinopathy).

Void

To empty or evacuate waste material, especially urine.

Volvulus

Twisting or kinking of the intestine, causing intestinal obstruction.

Vomit

Matter expelled from the stomach through the mouth (also called vomitus or emesis).

Wheal

Transitory, itchy elevation of the skin with a white center and a red surrounding area; a wheal is an individual urticaria (hive) lesion.

Common Behavioral Health Disorders

Anorexia nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by failure to maintain body weight, intensive fear of gaining weight, pronounced desire for thinness, and, in females, amenorrhea.

Anxiety disorder

An emotional disorder characterized by feelings of apprehension, tension, or uneasiness arising typically from the anticipation of unreal or imagined danger.

Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

A disorder of learning and behavioural problems characterized by marked inattention, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity.

Bipolar disorder

A major psychological disorder typified by a disturbance in mood.  The disorder is manifested by manic and depressive episodes that may alternate or may occur simultaneously.

Bulimia nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by uncontrolled binge eating followed by purging (induced vomiting).

Major depression

A mood disturbance characterized by feelings of sadness, despair, and discouragement.  Depression ranges from normal feelings of sadness (resulting from and proportional to personal loss or tragedy), through dysthymia (depressive neurosis), to major depression.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

A disorder characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that result in the tendency to perform repetitive acts or rituals (compulsions), usually as a means of releasing tension or relieving anxiety.

Panic attack

An episode of acute anxiety, occurring unpredictably, with feelings of acute apprehension, dyspnea, dizziness, sweating, and/or chest pain.

Phobia

A marked and persistent fear that is excessive or unreasonable cued by the presence or anticipation of a specific situation or object.

Pica

Compulsive eating of non-nutritive substances such as clay or ice.  This condition is often a result of an iron deficiency.  When iron deficiency is the cause of pica, the condition will disappear in 1 or 2 weeks when treated with iron therapy.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

A disorder characterized by an acute emotional response to a traumatic event or severe emotional stress such as an airplane crash, repeated physical or emotional trauma, or military combat.  Symptoms include anxiety, sleep disturbance, difficulty concentrating, and depression.

Schizophrenia

Any one of a large group of psychotic disorders characterized by gross distortions of reality, disturbance of language and communication, withdrawal from social interaction, and the disorganization and fragmentation of thought, perception, and emotional reaction.

Somatoform disorders

Physical symptoms for which no known physical cause exists.