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Mason WWCC Medical Terminology
BUS 280
1637
Medical
Undergraduate 1
06/26/2018

Additional Medical Flashcards

 


 

Cards

Term
prefix:

anti-
Definition
against, opposite of
Term
prefix:

brady-
Definition
slow
Term
prefix:

endo-
Definition
within
Term
prefix:

ep-; epi-
Definition
upon, over, above, on top
Term
prefix:

neo-
Definition
new
Term
prefix:

pre-
Definition
to come before
Term
prefix:

a-; an-
Definition
without, absence of
Term
prefix:

ab-
Definition
away from
Term
prefix:

ad-
Definition
toward
Term
prefix:

ana-
Definition
up, toward
Term
prefix:

intra-
Definition
within
Term
prefix:

sub-
Definition
below
Term
prefix:

hypo-
Definition
below
Term
prefix:

hyper-
Definition
above, abnormally high, excessive
Term
prefix:

poly-
Definition
excessive, over, or many
Term
prefix:

ec-; ecto-
Definition
out or outside
Term
prefix:

ex-; exo-
Definition
away from or outside
Term
prefix:

extra-
Definition
outside
Term
prefix:

infer-
Definition
below
Term
prefix:

super-; supra-
Definition
above
Term
prefix:

inter-
Definition
between
Term
prefix:

circum-
Definition
around
Term
prefix::

trans-
Definition
across, through or beyond
Term
prefix:

eso-
Definition
inward
Term
prefix:

dis-
Definition
away or apart
Term
prefix:

peri-
Definition
around
Term
prefix:

con-
Definition
together, jointly, with
Term
prefix:

contra-
Definition
against or counter
Term
prefix:

anti-
Definition
against or opposite of
Term
prefix:

post-
Definition
after
Term
prefix:

meta-
Definition
after or change
Term
prefix:

semi-
Definition
partial or half
Term
prefix:

hemi-
Definition
half
Term
prefix:

syn-; sym-
Definition
together or joined
Term
prefix:

dia-
Definition
through
Term
prefix:

ante
Definition
before
Term
prefix:

para-
Definition
alongside; abnormal
Term
prefix:

bi-
Definition
two; second
Term
prefix:

di-; dipl-
Definition
double
Term
prefix:

multi-
Definition
many
Term
prefix:

nulli-
Definition
none
Term
prefix:

mono-
Definition
one
Term
prefix:

primi-
Definition
first
Term
prefix:

uni-
Definition
one
Term
prefix:

pan-
Definition
all
Term
prefix:

tachy-
Definition
rapid, fast
Term
prefix:

pseudo-
Definition
false
Term
prefix:

ultra-
Definition
beyond normal
Term
prefix:

macro-
Definition
large
Term
prefix:

megalo-; mega-
Definition
great or large
Term
prefix:

mal-
Definition
bad
Term
prefix:

micro-
Definition
small
Term
prefix:

dys-
Definition
bad, abnormal, difficult, painful
Term
prefix:

hetero-; heter-
Definition
different
Term
prefix:

eu
Definition
good
Term
prefix:

ambi-
Definition
both
Term
prefix:

tetra-; quadra-
Definition
four
Term
prefix:

tri-
Definition
three
Term
suffix:

-al; -ic; -tic; -ac; -ar; -ary; -ous
Definition
pertaining to
Term
suffix:

-itis
Definition
inflammation
Term
suffix:

-pathy
Definition
disease
Term
suffix:

-malacia
Definition
softening
Term
suffix:

-sclerosis
Definition
hardening
Term
suffix:

-algia; -dynia
Definition
pain; condition of pain
Term
suffix:

-spasm
Definition
sudden, involuntary muscle contraction
Term
suffix

-plegia
Definition
paralysis
Term
suffix

-asthenia
Definition
weakness
Term
suffix:

-rrhexis
Definition
rupture
Term
suffix:

-plasia
Definition
growth, formation
Term
suffix:

-oma
Definition
tumor
Term
suffix:

-centesis
Definition
surgical puncture
Term
suffix:

-desis
Definition
surgical fusion or surgical fixation
Term
suffix:

-ectomy
Definition
surgical removal also called excision
Term
suffix:

-pexy
Definition
surgical suspension or surgical fixation
Term
suffix:

-clasia; -clast; -clasis
Definition
break apart (often refers to surgical or other procedure)
Term
suffix:

-plasty
Definition
surgical repair
Term
suffix:

-tomy
Definition
incision
Term
suffix:

-tripsy
Definition
surgical crushing
Term
suffix:

-stomy
Definition
surgical creation of an opening
Term
suffix:

-cele (seel)
Definition
hernia, protrusion, swelling
Term
suffixes:

-ia; -osis
Definition
condition of
Term
suffix:

-ism
Definition
condition or disease
Term
suffix:

-opsy
Definition
view of
Term
suffix:

-physis
Definition
growth
Term
suffix:

-atresia
Definition
a closure or the absence of a normal body opening
Term
suffix:

-rrhaphy
Definition
suturing
Term
suffix:

-tome
Definition
cutting instrument
Term
suffix:

-scope
Definition
a viewing instrument
Term
suffix:

-meter
Definition
measuring instrument; measure
Term
suffix:

-metry
Definition
process of measuring, measurement
Term
suffix:

-graph
Definition
an instrument for recording
Term
suffix:

-graphy
Definition
process of recording
Term
suffix:

-gram
Definition
an image or record
Term
suffix:

-scopy
Definition
process of viewing
Term
suffix:

-ad
Definition
toward
Term
suffix:

-logy
Definition
study of, science of
Term
suffix:

-phagia
Definition
eating or swallowing
Term
suffix:

-phasia
Definition
speaking
Term
suffix:

-stasis
Definition
standing still
Term
suffix:

-phobia
Definition
fear
Term
suffix:

-penia
Definition
deficiency
Term
suffix:

-phylaxis
Definition
protection
Term
suffix:

-ion
Definition
process
Term
suffix:

-hemia; -emia
Definition
condition of blood
Term
suffix:

-phil; -philia
Definition
affinity for or love for
Term
suffix:

-oxia
Definition
condition of oxygen
Term
suffix:

-iatry
Definition
specialty or treatment
Term
suffix:

-practic
Definition
a practice
Term
suffix:

-logist
Definition
one who studies
Term
suffix:

-rrhagia
Definition
abnormal discharge
Term
suffix:

-rrhea
Definition
discharge
Term
suffix:

-emesis
Definition
vomiting
Term
suffix:

-drome
Definition
running or run
Term
suffixes - pluralization:

-a - words ending in this refer to a singular
Definition
suffixes - pluralization

-a changes to -ae to pluralize the term
Term
term:

medical terminology
Definition
a language for medical professionals
medical terminology has rules of grammar, spelling and pronunciation.
two main categories: constructed and nonconstructed terms
Term
term:

constructed term
Definition
medical terms that are made up of multiple word parts to form a new word.
in most cases the word parts are derived from latin and greek
Term
term:

nonconstructed term
Definition
medical terms not formed from individual word parts.

includes eponyms, acronyms and words derived from languages other than latin and greek.
Term
term:

eponym
Definition
terms derived from the names of people
i.e. eustachian tube is named for Bartolommeo Eustachio who first identified this tube between the throat and middle ear
Term
term:

acronym
Definition
terms derived from the first letters of words in a compound term. i.e. LASIK:
laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis
Term
other nonconstructed words
Definition
derived from languages other than latin or greek
i.e. jaundice is derived from the french word for yellow, jaune
Term
term:

prefix
Definition
word part that's affixed to the beginning of a word
its purpose is to expand or enhance the meaning of the word
i.e. the prefix "con" means "with, together, jointly"
Term
term:

word root
Definition
word part that provides the primary meaning of the term
it provides the basis of the term and is the part to which other word parts are attached
nearly all terms have a word root, and some have more than one
i.e. "struct" is a root that means "make, build"
Term
term:

suffix
Definition
word part that's attached to the end of a word
often indicates the word's part of speech (noun adjective, adverb, etc.) or modifies the words meaning
i.e. "ion" is a suffix that indicates the word is a noun and ion's meaning is "process"
Term
term:

combining vowel
Definition
used when a word root requires a connecting vowel in order to add a suffix that begins with a consonant, or to add another word root, when forming a term
it does not add to or alter the meaning of the word root; it simply assists in pronouncing a term.
in most cases the combining vowel is the letter o, and in some cases it's the letter i or e.
Term
general medical terminology rules
Definition
not every medical term has all three word parts
some lack a prefix, word root or suffix and some have more than one word root
i.e. gastroenteritis:
gastr - root / enter - root / itis - suffix
Term
root: combining forms

cardi / o
Definition
heart
Term
root:

angi / o
Definition
vessel
Term
general constructed term rules
Definition
some medical terms are made simply of a prefix and a suffix
i.e. aphasia
a - prefix - phasia - suffix
without or absence of speaking
(absence of speaking)
Term
root:

trache / o
Definition
trachea
Term
root:

cephal / o
Definition
head
Term
root:

encephal / o
Definition
brain
Term
root:

gastr / o
Definition
stomach
Term
root:

oste / o
Definition
bone
Term
root:

muscl / o
Definition
muscle
Term
root:

bronch / o
Definition
airway
Term
root:

ot / o
Definition
ear
Term
root:

ocul / o
Definition
eye
Term
root:

pod / o
Definition
foot
Term
root: derm ::combing form:

dermat / o (also frequently 'a')
Definition
skin
Term
root:

tonsill
Definition
tonsil (or almond)
Term
root:

scop
Definition
viewing instrument
Term
root:

lith
Definition
stone
Term
root:

path
Definition
disease
Term
root:

skelet
Definition
skeleton
Term
root:

maxim
Definition
biggest, highest
Term
root:

append / o; appendic / o
Definition
appendix
Term
root:

bi / o
Definition
life
Term
root:

cerebr / o
Definition
brain, cerebrum
Term
root:

electr / o
Definition
electricity
Term
root:

hem / o
Definition
blood
Term
root:

hepat / o
Definition
liver
Term
root:

hyster / o
Definition
uterus
Term
root:

laryng / o
Definition
voice box, larynx
Term
root:

leuk / o
Definition
white
Term
root:

mamm / o; mast / o
Definition
breast
Term
root:

nat / o
Definition
birth
Term
root:

ment / o; psych / o
Definition
mind
Term
root:

neur / o
Definition
nerve
Term
root:

path / o
Definition
disease
Term
root:

proct / o
Definition
rectum or anus
Term
root:

rhin / o
Definition
nose
Term
root:

vas / o
Definition
vessel
Term
combining form

abdomin / o
Definition
abdomen
Term
combining form

brachi / o
Definition
arm
Term
combining form

caud / o
Definition
tail
Term
combining form

cervic / o
Definition
neck
Term
combining form

chondr / i
Definition
cartilage, gristle
Term
combining form

cran / o; crani / o
Definition
skull
Term
combining form

cyt / o
Definition
cell
Term
combining form

dist / o
Definition
distant
Term
combining form

dors / o
Definition
back
Term
combining form

femor / o
Definition
femur, thigh
Term
combining form

glute / o
Definition
buttock
Term
combining form

ili / o
Definition
hip, flank, groin
Term
combinging form

hom / o; home /o
Definition
same
Term
combining form

infer / o
Definition
below
Term
combining form

inguin / o
Definition
groin
Term
combining form

later / o
Definition
side
Term
combining form

lumb / o
Definition
lower back, loin
Term
combining form

medi / o
Definition
middle
Term
combining form

organ / o
Definition
tool
Term
combining form

pelv / o
Definition
pelvis
Term
combining form

physi / o
Definition
nature
Term
combining form

pleur / o
Definition
rib, pleura
Term
combining form

poster / o
Definition
back
Term
combining form

proxim / o
Definition
near
Term
combining form

super / o
Definition
above
Term
combining form

thorac / o
Definition
chest, thorax
Term
combining form

tom / o
Definition
to cut
Term
combining form

umbilic / o
Definition
navel, umbilicus
Term
combining form

ventr / o
Definition
belly
Term
term:

anatomy
Definition
study of body structure
Term
term: body structure building blocks

atom
Definition
simplest building block
carbon
nitrogen
hydrogen
oxygen
atoms bind together to form molecules
Term
term: body structure building blocks

organelles
Definition
nonliving parts of cells structures formed of molecules
Term
term: body structure building blocks

cell
Definition
the most basic form of life in the body
Term
term: body structure building blocks

tissue
Definition
arrangements of cells
four main categories:
epithelial
connective tissue
muscle tissue
nervous tissue
Term
term: body structure building blocks

organ
Definition
two or more different tissues combine to form an organ
organs maintain a certain shape and perform a general function
Term
term: body structure building blocks

system
Definition
a group of organs sharing a general function
there are 11 systems in the body
Term
system:

cardiovascular
Definition
function:
transport substances to and from the body cells
Term
system:

lymphatic
Definition
function:
remove unwanted substances and recycle fluid to the blood
Term
system:

respiratory
Definition
function:
exchange gases between the external environment and blood
Term
system:

digestive
Definition
function:
prepare foods for absorption into the bloodstream, and eliminate solid wastes from the body
Term
system:

urinary
Definition
function:
remove nitrogenous wastes and excess water and salts from the bloodstream
Term
system:

female reproductive
Definition
function:
provide for creation of new individuals
Term
system:

male reproductive
Definition
function:
provide for creation of new individuals
Term
system:

nervous
Definition
function:
control homeostasis by sensing changes in the environment, processing information, and initiating body responses
Term
system:

endocrine
Definition
function:
control homeostasis by releasing hormones into the bloodstream, which alter body functions
Term
system:

musculoskeletal
Definition
function:
muscles produce movement of body parts;
bones and joints support and protect soft body parts, allow movement by forming attachments to muscles, store minerals and form blood cells
Term
system:

integumentary
Definition
function:
protect body from fluid loss, injury and infection
Term
directional terms:

superior
Definition
toward the head end or upper part of the body
Term
combining form:

anter / o
Definition
front
Term
physiology
Definition
physi / o means nature

physiology is the study of nature
Term
combining form:

anter / o
Definition
front
Term
physi / o
physiology
Definition
nature
study or science of nature
Term
homeostasis
Definition
the process of maintaining internal stability
Term
directional terms
Definition
words used to describe the relative location of the body or its parts
Term
anatomical position
Definition
the body position that is commonly used as a reference
it's an erect posture with the face forward, arms at sides, palms of the hands facing forward, and legs together with the feet facing forward
directional terms are always based on the anatomical position, regardless of the actual body position of the individual
Term
construction of directional terms
Definition
most commonly constructed from word parts including one word root and one suffix
the suffixes are either -ior or -al, both meaining "pertaining to"
Term
directional root:

super
Definition
above
Term
directional root:

infer
Definition
below
Term
directional root:

anter
Definition
front
Term
directional root:

poster
Definition
back
Term
directional root:

medi
Definition
middle
Term
directional root:

later
Definition
side
Term
directional root:

proxim
Definition
near
Term
directional root:

dist
Definition
distant
Term
directional root:

ventr
Definition
belly
Term
directional root:

dors
Definition
back
Term
directional root:

caud
Definition
tail
Term
directional term:

superior
Definition
toward the head or upper part of the body
Term
directional term:

inferior
Definition
away from the head end or toward the lower part of the body
Term
directional term:

medial
Definition
toward the midline
Term
directional term:

proximal
Definition
toward the origin of attachment to the trunk
Term
directional term:

distal
Definition
away from the origin of attachment to the trunk
Term
directional term:

anterior
Definition
toward the front side or belly
Term
directional term:

ventral
Definition
toward the belly side or front
Term
directional term:

dorsal
Definition
toward the back
Term
directional term:

posterior
Definition
toward the back
Term
directional term:

lateral
Definition
toward the side
Term
directional term:

deep
Definition
internal, inward from the surface of the body
Term
directional term:

superficial
Definition
external, toward the body surface
Term
anatomical plane
Definition
an imaginary flat field that's used as a point of reference for viewing three- dimensional objects
anatomical planes divide the body into imaginary sections that are useful in describing the location of body parts relative to one another
three major anatomical planes are in common use
Term
frontal or coronal plane
Definition
a vertical plane passing through the body from side to side, dividing the body into anterior and posterior portions
Term
sagittal plane;
midsagittal plane
Definition
a vertical plane dividing the body into left and right portions
(right side, left side)
midsagittal is vertical down the center of the body dividing in equal portions
Term
parasagittal plane
Definition
a vertical plane down the body dividing into unequal portions
Term
transverse plane
Definition
a horizontal plane dividing the body into superior and inferior portions
Term
regions
Definition
areas that have been named to give healthcare workers the ability to communicate possible problems that may be revealed during a physical examination
most commonly used names of regions are constructed from one root and one suffix, similar to directional terms
Term
region:

thoracic
Definition
area of the chest

pertaining to chest, thorax
Term
region:

abdominal
Definition
(area of) abdomen
Term
abdominal region:

hypogastric
Definition
below the stomach
Term
abdominal region:

epigastric
Definition
medial area on top, or above, the stomach
Term
abdominal region:

hypochondriac
Definition
below the ribs (right and left)
"below the cartilage" of the ribs
Term
abdominal region:

lumbar
Definition
right or left medial areas below hypochondriac area
"pertaining to the loin"
Term
abdominal region:

iliac
Definition
right or left areas below the lumbar abdominal areas in the iliac region of the hip
"pertaining to the hip or groin"
Term
abdominal region:

umbilical
Definition
medial area between epigastric and hypogastric abdominal areas
"pertaining to the naval"
Term
quadrant abdominal divisions
(four quadrants)
Definition
right upper quadrant RUQ
left upper quadrant LUQ
right lower quadrant RLQ
left lower quadrant LLQ
Term
major body regions:

head
Definition
face, cranium
Term
major body regions:

neck
Definition
anterior neck, posterior neck
Term
major body regions:

upper appendages (arms)
Definition
shoulder, armpit (axilla), upper arm (brachium), elbow, forearm (antebrachium), wrist (carpus), hand (manus), fingers (digits)
Term
major body regions:

trunk or torso
Definition
chest (thorax), abdomen, pelvis, back
Term
major body regions:

lower appendages (legs)
Definition
buttock (gluteus), thigh (femorus), knee, leg (crus), ankle (tarsus), foot (pes), toes (digits)
Term
appendages
Definition
head, arms and legs
Term
cavities
Definition
the head and trunk aren't solid structures like the arms and legs, but include spaces that are partially filled with organs, connecting structures and fluids
these spaces are called cavities and their contents are called viscera
the cavities are surrounded by a moist membrane that helps control the spread of infections and keeps the internal organs moist and lubricated
thus the cavities are membrane-lined spaces filled with viscera
Term
viscera
Definition
the contents of head and trunk cavities
Term
two main cavities:

dorsal and ventral
Definition
dorsal and ventral are the two main cavities containing smaller cavities
Term
Dorsal cavity
(posterior)
Definition
contains the cranial cavity (brain)
and spinal cavity (spinal cord)
Term
ventral cavity
(anterior)
Definition
larger or the two cavities
diaphragm (muscular partition) divides the ventral cavity into upper (superior to the diaphragm) and lower (inferior to the diaphragm) cavities
these are named the thoracic cavity and abdominopelvic cavity, respectively
Term
thoracic cavity division:

pericardial cavity
Definition
lies along the midline
contains the heart
Term
thoracic cavity division:

pleural cavities
Definition
two cavities containing the lungs
Term
thoracic cavity division:

mediastinum
Definition
area between the lungs (pleural cavities)
lies along the midline, deep to the sternum; contains the heart, the large blood vessels located above the heart and a gland called the thymus
Term
abdominopelvic cavity
Definition
the large cavity of the abdominal and pelvic regions
contains an upper and lower area, not divided by a partition
Term
abdominopelvic cavity division:

abdominal cavity
Definition
the upper area of abdominopelvic cavity
contains the liver, stomach, pancreas, spleen and most of the small and large intestines
Term
abdominopelvic cavity division:

pelvic cavity
Definition
inferior area of abdominopelvic cavity
begins at the level of the iliac crest and
continues to the base of the abdominopelvic cavity
contains the urinary bladder, internal reproductive organs and parts of the large and small intestines
a bowl shaped cavity
Term
diagnosis
Definition
identification of an illness
"dia-: through"
"-gnosis: knowledge"
the diagnosis must be established before a treatment program can be made
Term
symptoms
Definition
experiences of the patient resulting from a disease
usually sensations, such as numbness or loss of appetite
others can include dizziness, loss of balance and mental confusion
clues that might suggest the nature of the illness
Term
sign
Definition
a finding that can be discovered by an objective examination, such as a physical or lab exam
Term
acute
Definition
describes a disease of short duration, often with a sharp effect

diseases are commonly classified as having either an expected brief duration or a long duration
Term
chronic
Definition
used to describe diseases that are of long duration
greek word "kronos"
Term
infection
Definition
disease classification
caused by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungal parasites or protozoans
the presence of infection results in development of infectious disease
Term
etiology
Definition
the cause of disease is called etiology
literally means "the study or science of cause"
i.e. the etiology of the infectious disease malaria is a protozoan called plasmodium, which is passed to us by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito
Term
trauma
Definition
disease caused by physical injury or trauma.
i.e. a fractured bone is a common trauma caused by an automobile accident
it's a disease because it upsets the homeostasis of the affected bone.
disease resulting from trauma is called traumatic disease
Term
traumatic disease
Definition
disease caused by trauma
Term
prognosis
Definition
once a reliable diagnosis is made, the healthcare professional may predict the probable course of the disease and its probable outcome
this is the prognosis
Term
diagnostic imaging
Definition
noninvasive procedures by instruments that are able to observe the internal structure and functions of the body
five major types of diagnostic imaging
Term
diagnostic imaging 5 types:

endoscopy
Definition
the use of a long, flexible tube that can be inserted into a patient
a hc professional may observe the internal cavities and organs of the patient with an attachment camera at the far end of the tube
the tube may also contain surgical attachments, enabling a surgeon to manipulate internal body parts while viewing in a monitor
Term
diagnostic imaging 5 types:

CT scan
Definition
CAT scan acronym for computer tomography scanning
diagnostic procedure that combines multiple x-rays and computer enhancement to produce three-dimensional images of internal body structures
cross-sectional images of body regions are produced
useful for organs in the chest or abdomen, muscles and joints
speed and low cost make ct scans the standard for eval of trauma to most areas of the body
Term
diagnostic imaging 5 types:

PET scan
Definition
procedure that detects the journey of a radioactive-labeled substance (such as glucose), through the body
the PET scan instrument contains scanners the respond to radiolabeled glucose and computers that create an image to track the pathway of the glucose as it's metabolized by body cells.
it reveals areas of the body that have an unusually high metabolic rate , such as tumors
acronym for positron emission tomography
Term
diagnostic imaging 5 types:

MRI
Definition
acronym for magnetic resonance imaging
offers the clearest, most complete images of internal anatomy
uses magnets that respond to hydrogen atoms in the body by sending signals to a computer which analyzes the information to produce three-dimensional images
can be used to diagnose many forms of cancer, joint disease and trauma
Term
diagnostic imaging 5 types:

ultrasound
Definition
aka sonography
uses pulsation of sound wavesthrough a body region
as the waves travel through tissues of varying density, they produce echoes that can be detected by a probe and interpreted by a computer
because of its harmless nature it has been proven useful in prenatal care by providing an early glimpse of the developing fetus in the uterus
Term
integumentary
Definition
the system that forms the entire surface area of the body
It's dominated by the largest organ of the body, the skin and smaller accessory organs embedded within the skin such as hair, follicles, nail, sebaceous glands, sweat glands and sensory receptors
also the subcutaneous layer aka the hypodermis
primary function is protection against outside temperature changes, dehydration and infectious microorganisms that may cause disease
Term
epidermis
Definition
one of two layers of the skin
the outer layer of epithileum
Term
dermis
Definition
one of the two layers of skin
the inner, deep layer composed of connective tissue
Term
cutane / o
derm / o
dermat / o
dermis
Definition
skin
Term
subcutaneous layer
hypodermis
Definition
area immediately below the skin that is an area of connective tissue that binds the skin to the muscles, and is rich in blood vessels and nerves
Term
skin functions
Definition
sweat glands, blood vessels, and a layer of fat help the skin to regulate internal body temperature while receptors provide the ability to detect changes in the environment giving the skin the added function of sensation
Term
a-
Definition
without, absence of
Term
ab-
Definition
away from
Term
ad-
Definition
toward
Term
ambi-
Definition
both
Term
an-
Definition
without, absence of
Term
ana-
Definition
up, toward
Term
ante-
Definition
before
Term
anti-
Definition
against, opposite of
Term
bi-
Definition
two
Term
brady-
Definition
slow
Term
circum-
Definition
around
Term
con-
Definition
with, together, jointly
Term
contra-
Definition
counter, against
Term
di-
Definition
double
Term
dia-
Definition
through
Term
dipl-
Definition
double
Term
dis-
Definition
apart, away
Term
dys-
Definition
bad, abnormal, painful, difficult
Term
ec-
Definition
outside, out
Term
ecto-
Definition
outside, out
Term
en-
Definition
within, upon, on, over
Term
endo-
Definition
within
Term
ep-
Definition
upon, over, above, on top
Term
epi-
Definition
upon, over, above, on top
Term
eso-
Definition
inward
Term
eu-
Definition
normal, good
Term
ex-
Definition
outside, away from
Term
exo-
Definition
outside, away from
Term
extra-
Definition
outside
Term
hemi-
Definition
half
Term
heter-
Definition
different
Term
hetero-
Definition
different
Term
hyper-
Definition
excessive, abnormally high, above
Term
hypo-
Definition
deficient, abnormally low, below
Term
infer-
Definition
below
Term
inter-
Definition
between
Term
intra-
Definition
within
Term
iso-
Definition
equal
Term
macro-
Definition
large
Term
mal-
Definition
bad
Term
mega-
Definition
large, great
Term
megalo-
Definition
large, great
Term
meta-
Definition
after, change
Term
micro-
Definition
small
Term
mono-
Definition
one
Term
multi-
Definition
many, more than once, numerous
Term
neo-
Definition
new
Term
nulli-
Definition
none
Term
pan-
Definition
all
Term
par-
Definition
alongside, abnormal
Term
para-
Definition
alongside, abnormal
Term
peri-
Definition
around
Term
poly-
Definition
excessive, over, many
Term
post-
Definition
to follow after
Term
pre-
Definition
to come before
Term
primi-
Definition
first
Term
pro-
Definition
before
Term
pseudo-
Definition
false
Term
quadri-
Definition
four
Term
re-
Definition
back
Term
semi-
Definition
half, partial
Term
sub-
Definition
under, beneath, below
Term
super-
Definition
above
Term
supra-
Definition
above
Term
sym-
Definition
together, joined
Term
syn-
Definition
together, joined
Term
tachy-
Definition
fast, rapid
Term
tetra-
Definition
four
Term
trans-
Definition
through, across, beyond
Term
tri-
Definition
three
Term
ultra-
Definition
beyond normal
Term
uni-
Definition
one
Term
abdomin / o
Definition
abdomen
Term
abort / o
Definition
miscarry
Term
abras / o
Definition
to rub away
Term
acid / o
Definition
a solution or substance with a pH less than 7
Term
acr / o
Definition
extremity
Term
actin / o
Definition
radiation
Term
aden / o
Definition
gland
Term
adren / o
Definition
adrenal gland
Term
albin / o
Definition
white
Term
albumin / o
Definition
albumin (a protein)
Term
alveol / o
Definition
air sac, alveolus
Term
amni / o
Definition
amnion
Term
an / o
Definition
anus
Term
andr / o
Definition
male
Term
angio / o
Definition
blood vessel
Term
ankyl / o
Definition
crooked
Term
anter / o
Definition
front
Term
aort / o
Definition
aorta
Term
append / o
Definition
appendix
Term
arter /o
Definition
artery
Term
arteri / o
Definition
artery
Term
arthr / o
Definition
joint
Term
articul / o
Definition
joint
Term
asthen / o
Definition
weakness
Term
atel / o
Definition
incomplete
Term
ather / o
Definition
fatty plaque
Term
atri / o
Definition
atrium
Term
audi / o
Definition
hearing
Term
aut / o
Definition
self
Term
azot / o
Definition
urea, nitrogen
Term
bacteri / o
Definition
bacteria
Term
balan / o
Definition
glans penis
Term
bi / o
Definition
life
Term
bil / o
Definition
bile
Term
blast / o
Definition
germ, bud, developing cell
Term
blephar / o
Definition
eyelid
Term
botul / o
Definition
sausage
Term
brachi / o
Definition
arm
Term
bronch / i
Definition
airway, bronchus
Term
bronch / o
Definition
airway, bronchus
Term
burs / o
Definition
purse or sac, bursa
Term
calc / i
Definition
calcium
Term
calc / o
Definition
calcium
Term
carcin / o
Definition
cancer
Term
cardi / o
Definition
heart
Term
carp / o
Definition
wrist
Term
caud / o
Definition
tail
Term
cec / o
Definition
blind intestine, cecum
Term
cellul / o
Definition
little cell
Term
cephal / o
Definition
head
Term
cerebell / o
Definition
little brain, cerebellum
Term
cerebr / o
Definition
brain, cerebrum
Term
cervic /o
Definition
neck, cervix
Term
cheil / o
Definition
lip
Term
chol / e
Definition
bile, gall
Term
cholecyst / o
Definition
gallbladder
Term
choledoch / o
Definition
common bile duct
Term
chondr / i
Definition
gristle, cartilage
Term
chondr / o
Definition
gristle, cartilage
Term
chori / o
Definition
membrane, chorion
Term
chron / o
Definition
time
Term
chym / o
Definition
juice
Term
cirrh / o
Definition
orange
Term
coccidioid / o
Definition
a fungus
coccidioides immitus
Term
col / o
Definition
colon
Term
colon / o
Definition
colon
Term
colp / o
Definition
vagina
Term
coni / o
Definition
dust
Term
condyl / o
Definition
knuckle of a joint
Term
conjunctiv / o
Definition
to bind together, conjunctiva
Term
cor / o
Definition
pupil
Term
coron / o
Definition
crown or circle, heart
Term
cost / o
Definition
rib
Term
cran / o
Definition
cranium, skull
Term
crani / o
Definition
cranium, skull
Term
crin / o
Definition
to secrete
Term
crypt / o
Definition
hidden
Term
cutane / o
Definition
skin
Term
cyan / o
Definition
blue
Term
cyes / o
Definition
pregnancy
Term
cyesi / o
Definition
pregnancy
Term
cyst / o
Definition
bladder, sac
Term
cyt / o
Definition
cell
Term
dacryl / o
Definition
tear
Term
dent / o
Definition
teeth
Term
derm / o
Definition
skin
Term
dermat / o
Definition
skin
Term
dilat / o
Definition
to widen
Term
dips / o
Definition
thirst
Term
dist / o
Definition
distant
Term
diverticul / o
Definition
diverticulum
Term
dors / o
Definition
back
Term
duoden / o
Definition
twelve, duodenum
Term
dur / o
Definition
hard
Term
ech / o
Definition
sound
Term
electr / o
Definition
electricity
Term
embol / o
Definition
plug
Term
embry / o
Definition
embryo
Term
encephal / o
Definition
brain
Term
enter / o
Definition
small intestine
Term
epididym / o
Definition
epididymis
Term
episi / o
Definition
vulva
Term
erythr / o
Definition
red
Term
esophag / e
Definition
esophagus, gullet
Term
esophag / o
Definition
esophagus, gullet
Term
esthesi / o
Definition
sensation
Term
extern / o
Definition
exterior
Term
fasci / o
Definition
fascia
Term
fec / o
Definition
feces
Term
femor / o
Definition
thigh, femur
Term
fet / o
Definition
fetus
Term
fibr / o
Definition
fiber
Term
fibul / o
Definition
fibula
Term
flux / o
Definition
flow
Term
follicul / o
Definition
little follicle
Term
fung / o
Definition
fungus
Term
gangli / o
Definition
swelling, knot
Term
ganglion / o
Definition
swelling, knot
Term
gastr / o
Definition
stomach
Term
gingiv / o
Definition
gums
Term
gli / o
Definition
glue
Term
globin / o
Definition
protein
Term
glomerul / o
Definition
glomerulus, little ball
Term
gloss / o
Definition
tongue
Term
glott / o
Definition
opening into the windpipe
Term
gluc / o
Definition
sugar, sweet
Term
glute / o
Definition
buttock
Term
glyc / o
Definition
sugar, sweet
Term
glycos / o
Definition
sugar, sweet
Term
gnos / o
Definition
knowledge
Term
gonad / o
Definition
sex gland
Term
gravid / o
Definition
pregnancy
Term
gravidar / o
Definition
pregnancy
Term
gyn / o
Definition
woman
Term
gynec / o
Definition
woman
Term
halit / o
Definition
breath
Term
hem / o
Definition
blood
Term
hemat / o
Definition
blood
Term
hepat / o
Definition
liver
Term
hidr / o
Definition
sweat
Term
hirsut / o
Definition
hairy
Term
hom / o
Definition
same
Term
home / o
Definition
sameness, unchanging
Term
hormon / o
Definition
to set in motion
Term
hydr / o
Definition
water
Term
hyster / o
Definition
uterus
Term
iatr / o
Definition
physician
Term
idi / o
Definition
individual
Term
immun / o
Definition
immunity, exempt
Term
infer / o
Definition
below
Term
inguin / o
Definition
groin
Term
ir / o
Definition
iris
Term
isch / o
Definition
hold back
Term
ischi / o
Definition
ischium, hip joint, haunch
Term
jejun / o
Definition
jejunum, empty
Term
kerat / o
Definition
hard, cornea
Term
ket / o
Definition
ketone
Term
keton / o
Definition
ketone
Term
kinesi / o
Definition
motion
Term
kyph / o
Definition
hump
Term
labyrinth / o
Definition
inner ear, maze
Term
lact / o
Definition
milk
Term
lamin / o
Definition
lamina, thin
Term
lapar / o
Definition
abdomen
Term
laryng / o
Definition
larynx, voice box
Term
later / o
Definition
side
Term
lei / o
Definition
smooth
Term
leuk / o
Definition
white
Term
lingu / o
Definition
tongue
Term
lip / o
Definition
fat
Term
lith / o
Definition
stone
Term
lob / o
Definition
a rounded part, lobe
Term
lord / o
Definition
bent forward
Term
lumb / o
Definition
loin, lower back
Term
lymph / o
Definition
clear water or fluid
Term
mamm / o
Definition
breast
Term
man / o
Definition
thin, scanty
Term
mast / o
Definition
breast
Term
mastoid / o
Definition
resembling a breast
Term
maxim / o
Definition
biggest, highest
Term
meat / o
Definition
opening, passage
Term
med / o
Definition
middle
Term
medi / o
Definition
middle
Term
melan / o
Definition
black
Term
men / o
Definition
month, menstruation
Term
mening / i
Definition
membrane
Term
mening / o
Definition
membrane
Term
menisc / o
Definition
meniscus
Term
menstru / o
Definition
month, menstruation
Term
ment / o
Definition
mind
Term
metr / i
Definition
uterus
Term
metr / o
Definition
uterus
Term
muc / o
Definition
mucus
Term
muscul / o
Definition
muscle
Term
my / o
Definition
muscle
Term
myc / o
Definition
muscle
Term
myel / o
Definition
bone marrow, spinal cord, medula, myelin
Term
myos / o
Definition
muscle
Term
myring / o
Definition
membrane, eardrum
Term
myx / o
Definition
mucus
Term
narc / o
Definition
numbness
Term
nas / o
Definition
nose
Term
nat / o
Definition
birth
Term
necr / o
Definition
death
Term
nephr / o
Definition
kidney
Term
neur / o
Definition
nerve
Term
noct / o
Definition
night
Term
nosocom / o
Definition
hospital
Term
nucle / o
Definition
kernel, nucleus
Term
obstetr / o
Definition
midwife
Term
ocul / o
Definition
eye
Term
olig / o
Definition
few in number
Term
onych / o
Definition
nail
Term
oophor / o
Definition
ovary
Term
opthalm / o
Definition
eye
Term
opt / o
Definition
eye
Term
or / o
Definition
mouth
Term
orchi / o
Definition
testis
Term
orchid / o
Definition
testis
Term
orex / o
Definition
appetite
Term
organ / o
Definition
tool
Term
orth / o
Definition
straight
Term
ost / o
Definition
bone
Term
oste / o
Definition
bone
Term
ot / o
Definition
ear
Term
ovar / o
Definition
ovary
Term
ox / i
Definition
oxygen
Term
pancreat / o
Definition
pancreas, sweetbread
Term
pariet / o
Definition
wall
Term
parot / o
Definition
parotid gland
Term
patell / o
Definition
patella
Term
path / o
Definition
disease
Term
pect / o
Definition
chest
Term
pector / o
Definition
chest
Term
ped / o
Definition
child
Term
pedicul / o
Definition
body louse
Term
pelv /o
Definition
bowl, basin
Term
pen / o
Definition
penis
Term
peps / o
Definition
digestion
Term
pept / o
Definition
digestion
Term
peritone / o
Definition
to stretch over, peritoneum
Term
petr / o
Definition
stone
Term
phag / o
Definition
eat, swallow
Term
phalang / o
Definition
phalanges
Term
pharyng / o
Definition
throat, pharynx
Term
phasi / o
Definition
to speak
Term
phleb / o
Definition
vein
Term
phragm / o
Definition
partition
Term
phragmat / o
Definition
partition
Term
phren / o
Definition
mind
Term
phys / o
Definition
growth
Term
physi / o
Definition
nature
Term
plasm / o
Definition
form
Term
pleur / o
Definition
pleura, rib
Term
pneum / o
Definition
air, lung
Term
pneumon / o
Definition
air, lung
Term
poikil / o
Definition
irregular
Term
poli / o
Definition
gray
Term
polyp / o
Definition
small growth
Term
por / o
Definition
hole
Term
poster / o
Definition
back
Term
presby / o
Definition
old age
Term
proct / o
Definition
rectum or anus
Term
prostat / o
Definition
prostate gland
Term
protein / o
Definition
protein
Term
proxim / o
Definition
near
Term
pseud / o
Definition
false
Term
psych / o
Definition
mind
Term
pub / o
Definition
pubis
Term
pulmon / o
Definition
lung
Term
py / o
Definition
pus
Term
pyel / o
Definition
renal pelvis
Term
pylor / o
Definition
pylorus
Term
radi / o
Definition
radius
Term
radic / o
Definition
nerve root
Term
radicul / o
Definition
nerve root
Term
rect / o
Definition
rectum
Term
ren / o
Definition
kidney
Term
retin / o
Definition
retina
Term
rhin / o
Definition
nose
Term
rhiz / o
Definition
nerve root
Term
rhythm / o
Definition
rhythm
Term
rhytid / o
Definition
wrinkle
Term
rrhythm / o
Definition
rhythm
Term
sacr / o
Definition
sacred, sacrum
Term
salping / o
Definition
trumpet, fallopian tube
Term
sarc / o
Definition
flesh, meat
Term
schiz / o
Definition
to divide, split
Term
scler / o
Definition
hard, sclera
Term
scoli / o
Definition
curved
Term
scop / o
Definition
viewing instrument
Term
seb / o
Definition
sebum, oil
Term
semin / o
Definition
seed, sperm
Term
sept / o
Definition
putrefying; wall, partition
Term
sial / o
Definition
saliva
Term
sigm / o
Definition
the letter S, sigmoid colon
Term
sinus / o
Definition
cavity
Term
skelet / o
Definition
skeleton
Term
somat / o
Definition
body
Term
son / o
Definition
sound
Term
spadias / o
Definition
rip, tear
Term
sperm / o
Definition
seed, sperm
Term
spermat / o
Definition
seed, sperm
Term
sphygm / o
Definition
pulse
Term
sphyx / o
Definition
pulse
Term
spir / o
Definition
breathe
Term
splen / o
Definition
spleen
Term
spondyl / o
Definition
vertebra
Term
staphylococc / o
Definition
staphylococcus (a bacterium)
Term
steat / o
Definition
fat
Term
sten / o
Definition
narrow
Term
stern / o
Definition
chest, sternum
Term
stigmat / o
Definition
point
Term
stomat / o
Definition
mouth
Term
streptococc / o
Definition
streptococcus (a bacterium)
Term
super / o
Definition
above
Term
syn / o
Definition
connect
Term
synov / o
Definition
synovial
Term
synovi / o
Definition
synovial
Term
tampon / o
Definition
plug
Term
tars / o
Definition
tarsal bone
Term
tax / o
Definition
reaction to a stimulus
Term
ten / o
Definition
stretch, tendon
Term
tendon / o
Definition
stretch, tendon
Term
tens / o
Definition
pressure
Term
test / o
Definition
testis, testicle
Term
testicul / o
Definition
little testis, testicle
Term
thorac / o
Definition
chest, thorax
Term
thromb / o
Definition
clot
Term
thym / o
Definition
wartlike, thymus gland
Term
thyr / o
Definition
shield, thyroid
Term
thyroid / o
Definition
resembling a shield, thyroid
Term
toc / o
Definition
birth
Term
tom / o
Definition
to cut
Term
tonsill / o
Definition
almond, tonsil
Term
tox / o
Definition
poison
Term
trache / o
Definition
windpipe, trachea
Term
trich / o
Definition
hair
Term
troph / o
Definition
development
Term
tubercul / o
Definition
little swelling
Term
tympan / o
Definition
eardrum
Term
umbilic / o
Definition
navel, umbilicus
Term
ur / o
Definition
urine
Term
ureter / o
Definition
ureter
Term
urethr / o
Definition
urethra
Term
urin / o
Definition
urine
Term
vag / o
Definition
vagus nerve
Term
vagin / o
Definition
sheath, vagina
Term
valvul / o
Definition
little valve
Term
varic / o
Definition
dilated vein
Term
vas / o
Definition
vessel
Term
vascul / o
Definition
little vessel
Term
ven / o
Definition
vein
Term
ventr / o
Definition
belly
Term
ventricul / o
Definition
little belly, ventricle
Term
vertebr / o
Definition
vertebra
Term
vesic / o
Definition
bladder
Term
vesicul / o
Definition
small bag
Term
volv / o
Definition
vulva
Term
xer / o
Definition
dry
Term
zo / o
Definition
animal, living
Term
-a
Definition
singular
Term
-ac
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-acusis
Definition
condition of hearing
Term
-ad
Definition
toward
Term
-ade
Definition
process
Term
-ae
Definition
plural
Term
-al
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-algesia
Definition
pain
Term
-algia
Definition
condition of pain
Term
-ar
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-ary
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-asthenia
Definition
weakness
Term
-atresia
Definition
closure or absence of a normal body opening
Term
-capnia
Definition
condition of carbon dioxide
Term
-cele
Definition
hernia, swelling, protrusion
Term
-centesis
Definition
surgical puncture
Term
-clasia
Definition
break apart
Term
-clasis
Definition
break apart
Term
-clast
Definition
break apart
Term
-crit
Definition
to separate
Term
-cyesis
Definition
pregnancy
Term
-desis
Definition
surgical fixation, fusion
Term
-drome
Definition
run, running
Term
-dynia
Definition
condition of pain
Term
-ectasis
Definition
expansion, dilation
Term
-ectomy
Definition
surgical excision, removal
Term
-emesis
Definition
vomiting
Term
-emia
Definition
condition of blood
Term
-genesis
Definition
origin, cause
Term
-genic
Definition
pertaining to producing, forming
Term
-gnosis
Definition
knowledge
Term
-gram
Definition
a record or image
Term
-graph
Definition
instrument for recording
Term
-graphy
Definition
recording process
Term
-hemia
Definition
condition of blood
Term
-ia
Definition
condition of
Term
-ial
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-iasis
Definition
condition of
Term
-iatry
Definition
treatment, specialty
Term
-ic
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-ician
Definition
one who practices
Term
-ion
Definition
process
Term
-ior
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-ism
Definition
condition or disease
Term
-ist
Definition
one who specializes
Term
-itis
Definition
inflammation
Term
-lepsy
Definition
seizure
Term
-lexia
Definition
pertaining to a word or phrase
Term
-logist
Definition
one who studies
Term
-logous
Definition
pertaining to study
Term
-logy
Definition
study or science of
Term
-lysis
Definition
loosen, dissolve
Term
-lytic
Definition
pertaining to loosen, dissolve
Term
-malacia
Definition
softening
Term
-mania
Definition
madness, frenzy
Term
-megaly
Definition
abnormally large
Term
-meter
Definition
measure, measuring instrument
Term
-metrist
Definition
one who measures
Term
-metry
Definition
measurement, process of measuring
Term
-oid
Definition
resembling
Term
-oma
Definition
tumor
Term
-opia
Definition
condition of vision
Term
-opsy
Definition
view of
Term
-osis
Definition
condition of
Term
-ous
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-oxia
Definition
condition of oxygen
Term
-pathy
Definition
disease
Term
-penia
Definition
abnormal reduction in number, deficiency
Term
-pexy
Definition
surgical fixation, suspension
Term
-phagia
Definition
eating or swallowing
Term
-phasia
Definition
speaking
Term
-phil
Definition
loving, affinity for
Term
-philia
Definition
loving, affinity for
Term
-phobia
Definition
fear
Term
-phonia
Definition
condition of sound or voice
Term
-phylaxis
Definition
protection
Term
-physis
Definition
growth
Term
-plasia
Definition
formation, growth
Term
-plasty
Definition
surgical repair
Term
-plegia
Definition
paralysis
Term
-pnea
Definition
breathe
Term
-practic
Definition
practice
Term
-ptosis
Definition
drooping
Term
-ptysis
Definition
to cough up
Term
-rrhage
Definition
abnormal discharge
Term
-rrhagia
Definition
abnormal discharge
Term
-rrhagic
Definition
pertaining to abnormal discharge
Term
-rrhaphy
Definition
suturing
Term
-rrhea
Definition
discharge
Term
-rrhexis
Definition
rupture
Term
-s
Definition
plural
Term
-salpinx
Definition
trumpet, fallopian tube
Term
-sclerosis
Definition
condition of hardening
Term
-scope
Definition
instrument used for viewing
Term
-scopy
Definition
process of viewing
Term
-sis
Definition
state of
Term
-spasm
Definition
sudden, involuntary muscle contraction
Term
-spasmodic
Definition
pertaining to a sudden, involuntary muscle contraction
Term
-stasis
Definition
standing still
Term
-stomy
Definition
surgical creation of an opening
Term
-therapy
Definition
treatment
Term
-tic
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-tome
Definition
cutting instrument
Term
-tomy
Definition
incision, to cut
Term
-tripsy
Definition
surgical cutting
Term
-troph
Definition
development
Term
-uresis
Definition
urination
Term
-uria
Definition
pertaining to urine, urination
Term
-us
Definition
pertaining to
Term
-y
Definition
process of
Term
sebaceous gland
Definition
a gland of the skin which secretes an oily substance, sebum, usually into a hair follicle near the surface of the skin
Term
hair
Definition
a pigmented filament of keratin which grows from a follicle from the skin of humans and other mammals. Hairs are threads of fused, dead keratinized cells.
Term
root
Definition
a structure of the hair follicle
Term
nail body, nail plate
Definition
the large part of the fingernail or toenail
Term
nail root
Definition
the base of the nail body, concealed under the skin from which the nail grows
Term
cuticle
Definition
the strip of skin at the base and sides of the fingernail and toenails
Term
skin
Definition
the outermost organ of the body
Term
dermatology
Definition
the medical field that specializes in the health and disease of the integumentary system
Term
abrasion
Definition
a common injury to the skin caused by scraping
Term
abscess
Definition
a localized elevation of the skin containing a cavity, which is a sign of localized infection
Term
cellulite
Definition
a local uneven surface of the skin and is a sign of subcutaneous fat deposition
Term
cicatrix
Definition
the clinical term for a scar
an injury to the skin resulting in a break through the epidermis and into the dermis or deeper layers of the skin that requires a process of healing
Term
comedo
Definition
the clinical term for a pimple
a local elevation of the skin arising from the buildup of oil from sebaceous (oil) glands. Bacteria feed on the oil, attracting the movement of white blood cells and their products resulting in the localized inflammation
Term
contusion
Definition
the clinical term for a bruise
a discoloration and swelling of the skin that is symptomatic of an injury, such as a blow to the body
Term
cyanosis
Definition
a blue tinge of color to an area of the skin and is a sign of a cardiovascular or respiratory disturbance
Term
cyst
Definition
a closed sac or pouch on the surface of the skin that's filled with liquid or semisolid material
Term
edema
Definition
the clinical term for fluid accumulation
caused by leakage of fluid across capillary walls
a common sign of injury and infection, among other things
Term
erythema
Definition
any redness of the skin
Term
fissure
Definition
the clinical term for a narrow break or slit in the skin
Term
furuncle
Definition
an abscess associated with a hair follicle, the resulting local swelling is called a furuncle
Term
induration
Definition
a local hard area on the skin
is usually a sign of an excessive deposit of collagen or calcium
Term
jaundice
Definition
an abnormal yellow coloration of the skin and eyes
in most cases it's a sign of liver or gallbladder disease
Term
keloid
Definition
an overgrowth of scar tissue that forms an elevated lesion
this large scar is often discolored
Term
laceration
Definition
an injury caused by a cut by a sharp object or tear
a laceration penetrating the dermis and extending for more than one inch often requires stitching with sutures to close the wound
Term
macule
Definition
clinical term for a discolored flat spot on the skin, such as a freckle
a sign of sun damage to the skin and the tendency to develop them is genetically determined
Term
nevus
Definition
the clinical term for a mole
similar to a macule but darker in color
it is actually a sign of a benign tumor
if it's edges become irregular or the color changes, the nevus should be examined as a suspected malignancy known as a melanoma
Term
pallor
Definition
an abnormally pale color of the skin
a sign of an internal condition causing a decreased flow of blood to the skin
Term
papule
Definition
a general term describing any small, solid elevation on the skin
an example of a papule is a comedo, or pimple
Term
petechiae
Definition
small red or purple dots appearing on the skin surface
it's the result of abnormal rupture of blood vessels in the dermis
Term
pruritis
Definition
the symptom of itchy skin
Term
purpura
Definition
a symptom of purple red skin discoloration
Term
pustule
Definition
a general term for an elevated area of the skin filled with pus
Term
ulcer
Definition
an erosion through the skin or mucous membrane
Term
decubitus ulcer
Definition
a common form of ulcer arising from lack of movement when lying supine for an extended period of time
Term
urticaria
Definition
small fluid filled skin elevations, also known as hives
it's an allergic skin reaction to medications, foods, infection or injury
may be accompanied by pruritis
Term
verruca
Definition
a skin elevation and thickened epidermis
the body's response to rid itself of a papilloma virus
Term
vesicle
Definition
a small elevation of the epidermis that is filled with fluid
a blister is an example as a vesicle that results from an injury to the skin
Term
wheal
Definition
a temporary, itchy elevation of the skin, often with a white center and red perimeter
it's a symptom of an allergic reaction
Term
acne
Definition
a condition of the skin that resulting from bacterial infection of sebaceous glands and ducts
characterized by the presence of numerous open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedomes (whiteheads) in affected parts of the face and also often involves the neck, back and chest
the most common skin disease of adolescence, caused by rapid growth of sebaceous glands during this period of life
Term
actinic keratosis
Definition
skin lesions resulting from overgrowths of the epidermis, usually with scaly surfaces
actinic keratosis is a precancerous condition caused by exposure to sunlight
Term
albinism
Definition
a genetic condition characterized by the reduction of the pigment melanin in the skin
the term albino refers to a person affected with albinism
Term
alopecia
Definition
the clinical term for baldness
a loss or lack of scalp hair
may be a sign of an infection of the scalp, high fevers, drug reactions, emotional stress, thyroid disorder
the common appearance of alopecia in men, often called male pattern baldness, is the result of a genetically controlled factor that prevents the development of hair follicles in certain areas of the scalp
Term
burn
Definition
an injury to the skin caused by excessive exposure to fire, heat, electricity, chemicals or sunlight
the level of injury is determined by the amount of surface area damaged (called total body surface area or TBSA), and the depth of the damage
Term
carbuncle
Definition
a skin infection caused by a cluster of boils
most common source of infection is staphylococci bacteria
Term
carcinoma
Definition
a form of skin cancer
basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are tumors arising from the epidermis
the third major skin cancer is melanoma
Term
cellulitis
Definition
an inflammation of the connective tissue in the dermis. it's caused by an infection that spreads from the skin surface or hair follicles, to the dermis and sometimes the subcutaneous tissue
Term
dermatitis
Definition
a generalized inflammation of the skin, involving edema of the dermis
in addition to swelling symptoms may include pruritis, urticaria, vesicles and wheals or some combination of these
the three major types include contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis and actinic dermatitis
Term
contact dermatitis
Definition
caused by physical contact with a triggering substance
Term
seborrheic dermatitis
Definition
caused by an inherited condition characterized by excessive sebum production
Term
actinic dermatitis
Definition
caused by sunlight exposure
Term
eczema
Definition
a superficial form of dermatitis, may also be called atopic dermatitis
primary symptoms of eczema include severe, chronic pruritis and deep scaliness
Term
ecchymosis
Definition
a condition caused by leaking blood vessels in the dermis, producing purplish patches of purpura larger in size that petechiae
Term
herpes
Definition
a viral skin infection producing clusters of deep blisters
Term
hyperhidrosis
Definition
a condition in which an individual sweats often and more than the usual amount
may be caused by a nervous disorder, low blood sugar, a thyroid disease or other causes
Term
impetigo
Definition
a contagious skin infection
usually forms around the lip
often caused by bacteria that enter a break in the skin and is characterized by the presence of "golden crusts"
Term
kaposi's sarcoma
Definition
a form of skin cancer arising from the connective tissue of the dermis
indicated by the presence of brown or purple patches on the skin and appears on some elderly patients
also a common condition associated with HIV/AIDS
Term
leukoderma
Definition
as some people age, their skin becomes lighter in color due to reduced activity of the pigment-producing cells in the skin, the melanocytes
Term
melanoma
Definition
malignant melanoma is the most life threatening skin cancer
it arises from the cells normally providing the pigment melanin to the skin, called melanocytes.
once established in the skin the tumor grows rapidly and metastasizes
about one half of cases arise from moles
Term
onychocryptosis
Definition
the clinical term for an ingrown nail
a nail becomes buried in the skin due to abnormal growth
Term
onychopathy
Definition
a general term to describe a disease of the nail
Term
melanocytes
Definition
the cells that normally provide the pigment melanin to the skin
Term
onychomalacia
Definition
a condition in which the nails are abnormally soft
maybe a result of calcium or vitamin d deficiency or a fungal infection
Term
onychomycosis
Definition
a fungal infection of one or more nails
Term
paronychia
Definition
an infection around the nail
Term
pediculosis
Definition
a condition of a body louse
can be on the scalp as in head lice, in the pubic region, called pubic lice and other parts of the body (called body lice)
Term
psoriasis
Definition
a painful, chronic disease characterized by the appearance of red lesions covered with silvery epidermal scales
believed to be an inherited inflammatory disease of the skin
an autoimmune disease
Term
scabies
Definition
a skin eruption caused by the female itch mite, which burrows into the skin to extract blood
produces the symptoms of dermatitis, such as erythema, swelling or edema and pruritus
Term
scleroderma
Definition
an abnormal thickening or hardness of the skin, caused by overproduction of collagen in the dermis
Term
systemic lupus erythematosus
Definition
a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease of connective tissue in many organs including the skin
the early stages are marked by red patches on the skin of the face and joint pain
Term
tinea
Definition
a fungal infection of the skin
often called ringworm
Term
tinea capitis
Definition
tinea on the scalp
can lead to alopecia
Term
tinea pedis
Definition
tinea of the feet
also known as athletes foot
Term
tinea corporis
Definition
tinea elsewhere on the body
Term
trichomycosis
Definition
a fungal infection of the hair
Term
trichopathy
Definition
a general term for a disease affecting the hair
Term
xeroderma
Definition
abnormally dry skin
caused by hyposecretion of the oil glands and is an inherited condition
Term
biopsy
Definition
a minor surgery involving the removal of tissue for evaluation
Term
debridement
Definition
a procedure to clean wounds
involves excision of foreign matter and unwanted tissue
Term
dermabrasion
Definition
a form of cosmetic surgery, in which abrasives are used to improve skin appearance
Term
chemical peels
Definition
an alternative to dermabrasion
a chemical agent is used to remove the outer epidermal layers to improve skin appearance, treat acne, wrinkles and sun damaged skin
Term
dermatoautoplasty
also called an autograft
Definition
a surgical procedure involving using the patients own skin as grafts (after it has grown in a media solution) to replace skin that has been extensively damaged over large areas from burns or other injuries
Term
dermatoheteroplasty
also called an allograft
Definition
a skin graft procedure using a skin graft from a donor
Term
dermatome
Definition
an instrument for cutting thin slices of skin for grafting
Term
dermatoplasty
Definition
a general term for a surgical procedure in which skin is repaired surgically
Term
emollient
Definition
a chemical agent that softens or smooths the skin
Term
topical antibiotics
Definition
used to treat skin infections such as acne or carbuncles
Term
retinoids
Definition
may be used to manage acne
also used to improve appearance for wrinkles and aging skin
Term
ultraviolet light therapy
Definition
used to treat some skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis
Term
rhytidectomy
Definition
a form of cosmetic plastic surgery
surgical removal of wrinkles
Term
plastic surgery
Definition
surgical procedures performed for/on the skin (and other structures) to repair following a major injury, correction of a congenital defect or cosmetic improvement
Term
rhytidoplasty
Definition
the surgical repair of skin wrinkles
Term
liposuction
Definition
the removal of subcutaneous fat by a device that vacuums
Term
arthralgia
Definition
condition of joint pain
Term
ataxia
Definition
the inability to coordinate muscles during a voluntary activity
a sign of a nervous system disorder that is often inherited
Term
atrophy
Definition
a reduction in muscle strength and size due to lack of movement and disuse
Term
bradykinesia
Definition
abnormally slow movement
a clinical sign of an underlying bone, muscle or nervous system disorder
Term
decalcification
Definition
the abnormal reduction of calcium in bone
often caused by a hormonal disorder upsetting the calcium balance between the bloodstream and bone
in many patients it can be treated with a combination of hormonal therapy, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin d, and mild exercise
Term
dyskenesia
Definition
difficulty in movement
condition of bad, abnormal, painful, or difficult motion
Term
dystrophy
Definition
a general symptom of progressive muscle weakness that is inherited
"process of bad, abnormal, painful or difficult development"
Term
hypertrophy
Definition
the sign of excessive muscle growth or development
Term
myalgia
Definition
condition of muscle pain
can be caused by buildup of lactic acid from exercise
chronic forms of myalgia usually suggest an underlying musculoskeletal disease
Term
tenodynia
Definition
tendon pain
usually indicates minor injury to one or more tendons, often lasting weeks or months
if intense it may indicate tearing of the tendons that requires medical intervention
Term
achondroplasia
Definition
a genetically determined disease that causes dwarfism
involves the abnormal lack of growth of long bones
Term
ankylosis
Definition
"condition of crooked"
a condition of abnormally stiff joints
may be from arthritis or other disorders
Term
arthritis
Definition
the general disorder resulting in inflammation and degeneration of a joint
Term
osteoarthritis
Definition
a common condition as people age, the joint structures become worn over time and are gradually replaced by bone
Term
rheumatoid arthritis
Definition
an autoimmune disease in which the joint structures become eroded by the action of the body's own white blood cells
Term
arthrochondritis
Definition
a joint disease in which the articular cartilage within synovial joints undergoes inflammation, resulting in joint pain during movements
unlike arthritis it's usually a temporary condition caused by a localized infection
Term
bunion
Definition
an abnormal enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe
caused by inflammation of a bursa near the big toe
Term
bursitis
Definition
inflammation of a bursa
Term
bursolith
Definition
a calcium deposit within a bursa of the foot
Term
carpal tunnel syndrome
Definition
inflammation of the wrist (tenosynovitis) that causes pressure against the median nerve, resulting in local pain and restricted movement
often a result of a repetitive stress injury
Term
carpoptosis
Definition
a weakness of the wrist
also known as wrist drop
literally means drooping of the wrist
Term
cramps
Definition
prolonged, involuntary muscle contractions causing pain wherever they occur
Term
degenerative joint disease
Definition
a general term describing a disease of the joints in which the cartilage undergoes degeneration
is progressive, becoming worse over time
arthritis is the most common DJD
Term
duchenne muscular dystrophy
Definition
a type of muscular dystrophy disease children are born with causing skeletal muscle degeneration, resulting in progressive muscle weakness and deterioration
Term
epicondylitis
Definition
a condition in which the epicondyles (small bony elevations on the humerus near the elbow joint) become inflames, usually due to an injury
Term
fibromyalgia
Definition
a disease of unknown origin that produces widespread pain of musculoskeletal structures of the limbs, face and trunk
"condition of pain of the fibers and muscles"
also known as fibromyalgia syndrome
some evidence that it may be, at least in part, caused by sleep deprivation
Term
fracture
Definition
the clinical term for a break in a bone
the most common types are simple, or closed, in which the fracture is not visible from the skin,
or compound, in which parts of the fractured bone visibly penetrate through the skin to cause bleeding
Term
gout
Definition
a painful condition caused by an abnormal accumulation of uric acid crystals (which are waste products of protein metabolism) in the joints
mostly affects men, usually happens in the big toe
Term
herniated disk
Definition
the rupture of an intervertebral disk
causes pressure against spinal nerves or the spinal cord, producing back pain
it's a back injury often caused by a sudden movement or an attempt to lift a heavy object
regarded as the most common musculoskeletal disease
Term
kyphosis
Definition
a deformity of the spinal curvature which affects the upper thoracic curve to bend posteriorly, causing an abnormal hump at the upper back
Term
lordosis
Definition
a deformity of the spinal curvature in which the lumbar curve is exaggerated anteriorly
Term
scoliosis
Definition
a deformity of the spine in which there is a lateral curvature
Term
marfan's syndrome
Definition
a congenital disease resulting in excess cartilage formation at the epiphyseal plates (growth plates), forming abnormally long limbs and a tall, thin body form
accompanied by deformity of the heart valves resulting in valvular heart disease
some forensic scientists have postulated that Abraham Lincoln may have suffered from this syndrome
Term
meniscitis
Definition
inflammation of the meniscus
Term
meniscus
Definition
a crescent-shaped band of cartilage that supports certain joints, such as the knee and shoulder
Term
myasthenia gravis
Definition
a disorder of the neuromuscular system characterized by a progressive failure of muscles to respond to nerve stimulation
Term
myeloma
Definition
a malignant tumor associated with the tissue of the red bone marrow
sometimes called multiple myeloma or plasma-cell myeloma
arises when a type of white blood cell, called a plasma cell, undergoes mutations to form a tumor that first appears in red bone marrow
Term
myocele
Definition
a muscle tearing through and protruding through the fascia
caused by injury
Term
myositis
Definition
local inflammation of a muscle caused by an injury
Term
osteitis
Definition
inflammation of bone
a reaction of bone tissue when injured or exposed to infection
Term
osteitis deformans
Definition
a disease that results in bone deformities due to a failure of bone remodeling, which is a balance of bone loss and bone deposition
also called paget disease
symptoms include severe bone pain and frequent fractures
recent evidence suggests this disease is inherited but requires a trigger by a virus
Term
osteosarcoma
Definition
a bone cancer arising from connective tissue, usually within the bone itself
Term
osteogenesis imperfecta
Definition
an inherited disease resulting in impaired bone growth and fragile bones
"imperfect bone development"
it's progressive, leading to severe bone pain, skeletal deformities and frequent fractues
Term
osteomalacia
Definition
a disease resulting in the softening of bones
Term
osteomyelitis
Definition
inflammation of the red bone marrow
the usual cause is a bacterial infection
Term
osteoporosis
Definition
a condition that results in abnormal loss of bone density and results in a loss of posture and flexibility
Term
paraplegia
Definition
a form of paralysis
a loss of sensation or voluntary movement of the area of the body below the hips, including both legs
Term
quadriplagia
Definition
a form of paralysis
all four limbs are without sensation or voluntary movement
Term
polymyositis
Definition
"inflammation of many muscles"
an autoimmune disease, the inflammation is the results of the body's own white blood cells attacking muscle tissue
Term
rickets
Definition
a disease in which the bones become softened due to the excessive removal of calcium for other body functions
it's caused by a lack of calcium or vitamin d in the diet
it's a disease of childhood, resulting in bowing of the legs and growth retardation
Term
rotator cuff
Definition
a combination of four muscles and their tendons that surround and stabilize the shoulder joint:
teres minor, supraspinatus, infraspinitus and subscapularis
Term
rotator cuff injury
Definition
a trauma to the rotator cuff that can tear one or muscles or tendons
can cause local inflammation, pain and joint discomfort
Term
spondylarthritis
Definition
inflammation, or arthritis, of the joints of the vertebra
Term
sprain
Definition
a tear of the collagen fibers within a ligament
Term
strain
Definition
similar to a sprain but involving a muscle
usually caused by stretching a muscle beyond it's normal range
may or may not cause a bruise due to the tearing of muscle tissue and capillary damage
Term
temporomandibular joint disease
(disorder)
Definition
a disease that leads to frequent dislocations that make it difficult and painful to move the jaw during speaking and chewing
may be without dislocations of the temporomandibular joint with pain and general disfunction of the muscles
Term
temporomandibular joint
Definition
the joint that is the junction of the mandible and the temporal bone
Term
TMJ
Definition
abbreviation of temporomandibular joint disease or disorder
Term
tendonitis
Definition
inflammation of a tendon
can be caused by a sports injury
a rotator cuff injury can involve tendonitis
Term
tenosynovitis
Definition
a form of tendonitis that also involes inflammation of the synovial membrane surrounding the joint
Term
arthrocentesis
Definition
a surgical procedure involving puncture into a joint for aspiration of excess fluids from the synovial cavity of the joint
for example, excess fluid that may be caused by inflammation which may slow the healing process and lead to additional complications
Term
arthroclasia
Definition
a surgical procedure that involves the breaking of an abnormally stiff joint
Term
arthrodesis
Definition
the surgical fixation of a joint
Term
arthrogram
Definition
the printed image on a film of a joint
an injection of contrast media can be used prior to imaging
Term
arthrolysis
Definition
a procedure that consists of the loosening of abnormal restrictions of a joint such as calcium deposits, bursoliths, etc
Term
arthroplasty
Definition
the surgical repair of a joint
a complete arthroplasty refers to a joint replacement
Term
arthroscopy
Definition
an endoscopic examination of a joint cavity
Term
arthroscope
Definition
the instrument used for an arthroscopy
Term
arthroscopic surgery
Definition
the term for a surgery in which an arthroscope is used
Term
arthrotomy
Definition
a surgical incision into the synovial cavity of a joint
Term
bursectomy
Definition
a surgery involving the removal of a bursa
Term
chiropractic
Definition
the field of therapy that is centered around manipulation of bones and joints, most commonly the vertebral column
Term
chiropractor
Definition
a practitioner of chiropractic care
Term
chondrectomy
Definition
surgical excision, or removal, of the cartilage associated with a joint
commonly uses arthroscopy
Term
chondroplasty
Definition
surgical repair of cartilage associated with a joint
Term
costectomy
Definition
surgery involving removal of a rib
Term
cranioplasty
Definition
surgical repair of one or more bones of the cranium (skull)
Term
diskectomy
Definition
a surgical removal of an intervertebral disk
Term
spinal fusion
also called spondylosyndesis
Definition
a surgery involving fusion of an area of the spine
Term
laminectomy
Definition
surgical removal of the part of the vertebra known as the lamina to treat a herniated disk
relieves pressure on the spinal cord
Term
electromyography
Definition
a procedure that measures the strength of a muscle contraction
Term
EMG
Definition
abbreviation of electromyography
Term
fasciotomy
Definition
a surgical incision into the connective sheath surrounding a muscle
Term
fracture reduction
Definition
a treatment for a bone fracture that aligns the broken bones to their normal positions
closed fracture reduction is manipulating the bone without surgery
open fracture reduction involves surgery
if the normal healing process is impeded, bone grafting or electrical bone stimulation may be applied to stimulate the healing process
Term
internal fixation
Definition
open fracture reduction involving the use of pins, screws, rods or plates
Term
external fixation
Definition
fracture reduction using metal rods and pins attached from outside the skin surface
Term
myoplasty
Definition
surgical intervention to repair/promote healing of a torn muscle
Term
myorrhaphy
Definition
a procedure that can be performed during myoplasty in which torn muscle ends are sutured together
Term
NSAIDS
Definition
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
a common pharmacological treatment for any condition including inflammation/pain of muscle or bone tissue
Term
orthotics
Definition
the field of medical support involving construction and fitting of orthopedic appliances, such as lifts, artificial limbs and retraction devices to assist a patient
Term
prosthesis
Definition
the medical term for an artificial limb
Term
ostectomy
Definition
the surgical removal, or excision, of bone tissue
performed to remove unwanted bony formations
Term
osteoclasis
Definition
a procedure in which a bone is broken purposely to correct a defect or an improperly healed fracture
Term
osteopathy
Definition
a medical field that emphasizes the relationship between the musculoskeletal system and overall health with an emphasis on body alignment and nutrition
Term
osteopath
abbreviated as DO
Definition
a physician trained in osteopathy
or an osteopathic surgeon
Term
osteoplasty
Definition
the surgical repair of bone
Term
podiatry
Definition
the specialty that focuses on foot care/health
Term
RICE
Definition
acronym for
rest
ice
compresses, compression of the injury
elevation
of the injured area
Term
tenomyoplasty
Definition
a surgical procedure involving repair of damage of both muscle and tendon
Term
tenorrhaphy
Definition
a surgical procedure for the repair of a tear to the achilles tendon
Term
tenotomy
Definition
one or more incisions made into a tendon
a tennorrhaphy often includes tenotomy
Term
vertebroplasty
Definition
surgical repair of diseased or damaged vertebrae
Term
ACL
Definition
anterior cruciate ligament
a ligament that stabilizes the knee joint
Term
CTS
Definition
carpal tunnel syndrome
Term
DJD
Definition
degenerative joint disease
Term
DMD
Definition
duchenne muscular dystrophy
Term
HNP
Definition
herniated nucleus pulposus
a herniated intervertebral disk
Term
MG
Definition
myasthenia gravis
Term
OA
Definition
osteoarthritis
Term
ortho
Definition
orthopedics
Term
RA
Definition
rheumatoid arthritis
Term
ROM
Definition
range of motion
Term
SCI
Definition
spinal cord injury
Term
THR
Definition
total hip replacement
Term
TKA
Definition
total knee arthroplasty
Term
TKR
Definition
total knee replacement
Term
C1 through C7
Definition
the seven cervical vertebrae
Term
T1 through T12
Definition
the twelve thoracic vertebrae
Term
L1 through L5
Definition
the five lumbar vertebrae
Term
musculoskeletal
Definition
the skeletal and muscular systems combined
joints are organs of the musculoskeletal system too as are tendons and ligaments
Term
movement
Definition
the muscles and bones work together to support the body and produce body movement
Term
muscle
Definition
an organ of the body composed mainly of skeletal muscle tissue and connective tissue
Term
bone
Definition
each bone is an organ, composed mainly of connective tissue receiving blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves. Bones support soft internal organs, store mineral salts including calcium and phosphorus and produce red blood cells within the red bone marrow
they also are an attachment site for muscles
Term
compact bone
Definition
Compact bone, also called cortical bone, dense bone in which the bony matrix is solidly filled with organic ground substance and inorganic salts, leaving only tiny spaces (lacunae) that contain the osteocytes, or bone cells
Term
periosteum
Definition
a dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones except at the surfaces of the joints
Term
diaphysis
Definition
the shaft or central part of a long bone
Term
epiphysis
Definition
the end part of a long bone, initially growing separately from the shaft
Term
cranium
Definition
the skull, especially the part enclosing the brain
there are eight cranial bones and fourteen facial skeleton bones
Term
clavicle
Definition
medical term for the collarbone
Term
humerus
Definition
the long upper arm bone
Term
sacrum
Definition
a triangular bone in the lower back formed from fused vertebrae and situated between the two hipbones of the pelvis
below the lumbar vertebrae
Term
phalanges
phalanx singular
Definition
a bone(s) of the finger or toe
Term
femur
Definition
the long bone of the upper leg
Term
deltoid
Definition
the muscle forming the rounded contour of the shoulder
Term
gastrocnemius
Definition
a superficial two headed muscle that is the back part of the lower leg
It runs from its two heads just above the knee to the heel, a two joint muscle
Term
sternocleidomastoid
Definition
a paired muscle in the superficial layers of the side of the neck. It is one of the largest and most superficial cervical muscles. The primary actions of the muscle are rotation of the head to the opposite side and flexion of the neck
Term
biceps brachii
Definition
a two headed muscle that lies on the upper arm between the shoulder and elbow
Term
rectus femoris
Definition
one of the four quadriceps
situated in the middle of the front of the thigh
Term
orthopedic
Definition
the branch of medicine that focuses on diseases of the skeletal and muscular systems
Term
orthopedist
Definition
an orthopedic physician
a physician specializing in orthopedics
Term
blood
Definition
a tissue that's part of the cardiovascular system
a vital fluid
also closely associated with the lymphatic system
normally found only in the heart and blood vessels
includes a watery medium, called plasma, which carries within its current two major types of cells: red blood cells and white blood cells
fragments of cells are also present in blood, called platelets
the primary function of the blood is to transport substances throughout the body
substances including oxygen, carbon dioxide, hormones, enzymes, nutrients and waste materials
also protects from infectious disease and helps regulate body temperature
Term
red blood cells
erythrocyte
Definition
binds to oxygen for transport and delivery to body tissues
Term
white blood cells
leukocyte
Definition
any of various nearly colorless cells of the immune system that circulate mainly in the blood and lymph and participate in reactions to invading microorganisms or foreign particles consisting of the b cells, t cells, macrophages, monocytes, granulocytes
Term
platelet
Definition
protoplasmic bodies in blood that aid in coagulation
Term
lymph;
lymphatic system
Definition
another bodily fluid substance contained within the lymphatic vessels
lymph carries the components of immunity, such as white blood cells and the products that they use to fight infection
blood and lymph are intertwined because lymph is formed from blood during capillary exchange and rejoins the bloodstream later
both lymph and blood are involved in the fight against infections because both carry white blood cells, or leukocytes
the primary function of the lymphatic system is protection against infectious disease
it also recycles fluids from the extra cellular environment into the bloodstream
the lymphatic system filters and recycles fluid into the bloodstrem
a lymphatic disease can spread quickly to distant areas of the body
metastasizing cancer cells often use the low pressure system of the lymph to travel from one area of the body to another
Term
neutrophil
Definition
a type of white blood cell
Term
lymphatic vessel
Definition
a vessel that carries lymph
Term
spleen
Definition
a gland that is part of the lymphatic system
Term
lymph nodes
Definition
small oval bodies of the lymphatic system, distributed along the lymphatic vessels, that are clustered in the armpits, groin, neck, chest and abdomen
they act as filters with an internal honeycomb of connective tissue that is filled with macrophages and lymphocytes that collect and destroy bacteria, viruses and foreign matter from lymph
Term
hematology
Definition
the general field of medicine focusing on blood related disease
Term
hematologist
Definition
a physician specializing in hematology
Term
infection
Definition
an uncontrolled growth of microorganisms in a host
Term
immunology
Definition
the field of medicine that specializes in infectious disease
Term
bacteriology &
virology
Definition
subspecialties in the field of infectious disease or immunology
Term
anisocytosis
Definition
the presence of RBC of uneual size in a sample of blood
Term
bacteremia
Definition
the presence of bacteria in a sample of blood a sign of infection
Term
erythropenia
Definition
abnormally reduced number of RBC in a sample of blood
Term
hemolysis
Definition
the rupture of the red blood cell membrane caused by a blood transfusion of incompatible blood to the recipient
Term
hemorrhage
Definition
the abnormal loss of blood from circulation from trauma or illness
Term
leukopenia
Definition
an abnormally reduced number of WBC
also called leukocytopenia
Term
macrocytosis
Definition
the presence of abnormally large RBC in a sample of blood
Term
poikilocytosis
Definition
irregularly shaped RBC
Term
polycythemia
Definition
an abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood resulting from a genetic mutation within cells of the red bone marrow
may also be called erythrocytosis
Term
splenomegaly
Definition
abnormal enlargement of the spleen
Term
thrombopenia
Definition
an abnormally reduced number of platelets
also called thrombocytopenia
Term
toxemia
Definition
the presence of toxins in the bloodstream
Term
AIDS
Definition
the acronym for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
a disease caused by the virus HIV, which disables the immune response by destroying important white blood cells known as helper T cells
the loss of immune function allows opportunistic diseases to proliferate
Term
allergy
Definition
the body's immune response to allergens, which are foreign substances that produce a reaction including immediate inflammation
may strike in different forms of symptoms
Term
allergic rhinitis
Definition
an allergic reaction that involves the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity and throat
Term
allergic dermatitis
Definition
an allergic reaction which affects the skin where it has been in physical contact with the allergen
Term
anaphylaxis
Definition
a serious, rapid onset allergic reaction that includes rapid inflammation, constriction of the trachea, throat and/or tongue swelling (which can prevent or restrict breathing), systemic vasodilation, bronchospasms, hives, itching, swelling, angioedema, flushing, skin may become blue tinged (cyanosis), afflicted may complain of a burning feeling, may be accompanied with vomiting, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, stridor and spasms of the GI tract
a life threatening medical emergency
Term
anemia
Definition
the reduced ability of RBC to deliver oxygen to tissues
may be the result of a reduced number of normal circulating RBC or a reduction in the amount of the oxygen-binding protein in RBC called hemoglobin
Term
aplastic anemia
Definition
anemia resulting from red bone marrow failing to produce sufficient numbers of normal blood cells
Term
iron deficiency anemia
Definition
anemia caused by lack of available iron, resulting in the body's inability to make adequate amounts of hemoglobin
Term
sickle cell anemia
Definition
anemia in which the hemoglobin is defective within cells resulting in misshaped RBC that cause obstructions in blood vessels
Term
pernicious anemia
Definition
anemia caused by a failure to acquire vitamin B12 into the bloodstream for its delivery to red bone marrow, which requires it in order to produce new RBC
Term
anthrax
Definition
a bacterial disease that can become fatal
bacteria produces spores
infection leads to lesions on the skin and in the lungs
Term
autoimmune disease
Definition
a disease caused by a person's own immune response attacking otherwise healthy tissues
examples are rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis
Term
botulism
Definition
a lethal form of food-borne illness caused by a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum
Term
communicable disease
Definition
a disease that is capable of transmission from one person to another
Term
diptheria
Definition
an infectious disease resulting in acute inflammation of mucous membranes, primarily in the mouth and throat
characterized by the formation of an obstructive, leatherlike membrane in throat
rare now due to a vaccine that has been widely administered to children since the 1960's
Term
dyscrasia
Definition
the clinical term for any abnormal condition of the blood
Term
edema
Definition
the leakage of fluid from the bloodstream into the interstitial space between cells causing swelling
is one aspect of inflammation
Term
fungemia
Definition
a fungal infection that spreads through the body by way of the bloodstream
Term
hematoma
Definition
a mass of blood outside blood vessels and confined within an organ or space within the body, usually in a clotted form
commonly known as a bruise or a contusion when it's visible through the skin
usually the result of injury of disease
Term
hemoglobinopathy
Definition
a general term for a disease that affects hemoglobin within RBC
Term
hemophilia
Definition
an inherited bleeding disorder that results from defective or missing blood-clotting proteins that are necessary components in the coagulation process
Term
hemorrhagic fever
Definition
an infectious disease that causes internal bleeding or internal hemorrhage and high fever
Term
iatrogenic disease
Definition
a condition that is caused by a medical treatment
Term
idiopathic disease
Definition
a disease that develops without a known or apparent cause
Term
immunodeficiency
Definition
a condition resulting from a defective immune response
a patient suffering from an immunodeficiency is described as immunocomprimised
Term
immunosuppression
Definition
a reduction of an immune response that may be caused by disease or by the use of chemical, pharmacological or immunologic agents
Term
incompatibility
Definition
the combination of two blood types that results in the destruction of RBC
Term
inflammation
Definition
the physiological process that serves as the body's initial response to injury and many forms of illness involves the swelling of body tissues
the swelling results from the movement of plasma from capillaries into the extracellular space to produce edema, or fluid accumulation in tissue
the common symptoms of edema include swelling, redness, heat and pain
Term
influenza
Definition
a viral disease characterized by fever and acute inflammation of respiratory mucous membranes
commonly called the flu
highly contagious and capable of mutating
Term
leukemia
Definition
a form of cancer that originates from cells within the blood-forming tissue of the red marrow
Term
lymphadenitis
Definition
inflammation of the lymph nodes
Term
lymphoma
Definition
the general term for a form of cancer that begins in a type of WBC called a lymphocyte
two main categories: hodgkin lymphoma and non-hodgkin lymphoma
Term
malaria
Definition
a disease caused by a parasitic protozoan that infects red blood cells and the liver
the symptoms of malaria include periodic flare-ups of high fever
Term
measles
Definition
an acute viral disease that often begins as a fever, followed by the development of a skin rash containing numerous vesicles and often accompanied by a general inflammation of the respiratory tract
a clinical symptom is rubeola
prior to the availability of a widely distributed vaccine, measles killed thousands of children and adults each year in the united states
Term
mononucleosis
Definition
a viral disease characterized by enlarged lymph nodes, throat pain, pharyngitis, fever and fatigue
also called infectious mononucleosis
caused by the epstein-barr virus
Term
necrosis
Definition
the death of one or more cells or a portion of a tissue or organ
Term
nosocomial infection
Definition
an infectious disease that is contracted during a hospital stay
Term
plague
Definition
any infectious disease that is widespread and causes extensive mortality
Term
rabies
Definition
a viral infection that's spread from the saliva of an infected animal, usually by way of bite
the virus acts on the central nervous system
Term
septicemia
Definition
a systemwide disease caused by the presence of bacteria and their toxins in the circulating blood
Term
smallpox
Definition
a viral disease caused by the variola virus that was the scourge of the human population prior to its eradication in 1975
Term
staphylococcemia
Definition
the presence of the bacteria staphylococcus in the blood
Term
streptococcemia
Definition
the presence of the bacterium streptococcus in the blood
Term
tetanus
Definition
a disease caused by a powerful neurotoxin released by the common bacterium clostridium tetani
Term
thymoma
Definition
a tumor originating in the thymus gland
Term
antibiotic therapy
Definition
therapeutic treatment involving the use of a substance with known toxicity to bacteria
Term
anticoagulant
Definition
a chemical agent that delays or prevents the clotting process
often administered to reduce the likelihood of clot formation after surgery
Term
antiretroviral therapy
Definition
a pharmacological therapy that's useful in battling a class of viruses that tend to mutate quickly, called retroviruses
Term
attenuation
Definition
the process in which pathogens are rendered less virulent, or infectious, prior to their incorporation into a vaccine preparation
Term
autologous transfusion
Definition
a tranfusion of blood donated by a patient for their personal use
a common procedure before a surgery to avoid potential incompatibility or contamination of blood
Term
blood chemistry
Definition
a test or series of tests on a sample of plasma to measure the levels of its composition, including glucose, albumin, triglycerides, pH, cholesterol and electrolytes
Term
blood culture
Definition
a clinical test to determine infection in the blood
Term
blood transfusions
Definition
the introduction of blood, blood products, or a blood substitute into a patient's circulation to restore blood volume to a normal level
Term
homologous tranfusion
Definition
the donation of blood from a person other than the patient themselves
Term
bone marrow transplant
Definition
a common procedure to treat leukemia, or injury resulting from radiation therapy or chemotherapy
it involves removal of a sample from a compatible donor, usually from the red marrow in the pelvis, and its innoculation into the patients red marrow
Term
coagulation time
Definition
a timed blood test to determine the time required for a blood clot to form
Term
complete blood count
Definition
a common laboratory test that evaluates a sample of blood to provide diagnostic information about a patients general health
includes testing for hematocrit, hemoglobin, red blood count, white blood count and sometimes a platelet count
Term
CBC
Definition
abbreviation for complete blood count
Term
differential count
Definition
a microscopic count of the number of each type of WBC in a sample of blood
Term
hematocrit
Definition
a procedure included in a CBC that measures the percentage of red blood cells in a volume of blood
obtained by centrifuging a sample of blood to separate the cells from plasma
Term
HCT or HcT
Definition
abbreviation for hematocrit
Term
hemoglobin
Definition
a procedure included in a complete blood count that measures the level of hemoglobin in RBC
Term
HGB or HgB
Definition
abbreviation for hemoglobin
Term
hemostasis
Definition
the stoppage of bleeding is a physiological process known as hemostasis
Term
immunization
Definition
a treatment that establishes immunity against a particular foreign substance that may otherwise cause disease
Term
immunology
Definition
the science concerned with immunity and allergy
Term
immunotherapy
Definition
the treatment of infectious disease and certain cancers by the administration of pharmacological agents, such as serum, gamma globin, treated antibodies and suppressive drugs
Term
platelet count
Definition
a lab procedure that calculates the number of platelets in a known volume of blood
Term
lymphadenectomy
Definition
the surgical removal of one or more lymph nodes
Term
prophylaxis
Definition
any treatment that tends to prevent the onset of an infection or other type of disease
Term
red blood count
Definition
a lab test included in a complete blood count that measures the number of red blood cells within a given volume of blood
Term
RBC
Definition
red blood count or red blood cell
Term
splenectomy
Definition
the surgical removal of the spleen
necessary if it's ruptured which may occur from a physical injury to the left side of trunk
Term
thrombolysis
Definition
a treatment that's performed to dissolve an unwanted blood clot
Term
vaccination
Definition
the inoculation of a foreign substance that has reduced virulence, or a reduced ability to cause infection, as a means of providing a cure or prophylaxis
Term
vaccine
Definition
the preparation that's used in a vaccination
Term
HIV
Definition
human immunodeficiency virus
Term
MRSA
Definition
methicillin-resistant staphylcoccus aureus
Term
NHL
Definition
non-hodgkin lymphoma
Term
PLT
Definition
platelet count
Term
PT
Definition
prothrombin time
Term
PTT
Definition
partial thromboplastin time
Term
WBC
Definition
white blood cell or white blood count
Term
cardiovascular system
Definition
an organ system that permits blood to circulate and transport nutrients (such as amino acids and electrolytes), oxygen, carbon dioxide, hormones, blood cells to and from the cells of the body to provide nourishment and help in fighting diseases, stabilize temperature and pH and maintain homeostasis
Term
heart
Definition
a muscular organ that pumps blood through the blood vessels of the circulatory system
Term
blood vessels
Definition
the part of the circulatory system and microcirculation that transports blood throughout the body
Term
capillaries
Definition
a small blood vessel from 5 to 10 micrometers in diameter and having a wall one endothelial cell thick
the smallest blood vessels
Term
artery
Definition
a blood vessel that takes blood away from the heart to all parts of the body
most arteries carry oxygenated blood
Term
vein
Definition
Veins are blood vessels that carry blood toward the heart
Term
aorta
Definition
The aorta is the main artery in the human body
Term
right ventricle/left ventricle
Definition
A ventricle is one of two large chambers in the heart that collect and expel blood received from an atrium towards the peripheral beds within the body and lungs
Term
mitral valve
Definition
A ventricle is one of two large chambers in the heart that collect and expel blood received from an atrium
Term
blood flow
Definition
Blood flow ensures the transportation of nutrients, hormones, metabolic wastes, O2 and CO2 throughout the body to maintain cell-level metabolism, the regulation of the pH, osmotic pressure and temperature of the whole body, and the protection from microbial and mechanical harms
Term
cardiology
Definition
the medical specialty that deals with heart disease
Term
cardiologist
Definition
a physician who specializes in caardiology
Term
cardiovascular
Definition
of or pertaining to the cardiovascular system
Term
angina pectoris
Definition
chest pain caused by insufficient oxygen supply to the heart
Term
angiospasm
Definition
abnormal muscular contractions, or spasms, of the smooth vessels forming vessel walls
Term
angiostenosis
Definition
narrowing of a blood vessel causing a reduction of blood flow to the part of the body at the receiving end of the narrowed vessel
Term
arrhythmia or
dysrhythmia
Definition
a loss of the normal rhythm of the heart
Term
bradycardia
Definition
an abnormally slow heart rate
Term
cardiodynia
Definition
the most common term for chest pain
Term
cardiogenic
Definition
a symptom or sign that originates from the heart
Term
cyanosis
Definition
a symptom in which a blue tinge is seen in the skin and mucous membranes
caused by an oxygen deficiency in tissues
and is a common sign of respiratory failure often caused by cardiovascular disease
Term
palpitation
Definition
a symptom of pounding, racing or skipping of the heartbeat
Term
tachycardia
Definition
a rapid heart rate
Term
syncope
Definition
a temporary loss of consciousness and posture
commonly known as fainting
it's a result of a temporary reduction of blood flow to the brain
Term
aneurysm
Definition
an abnormal bulging of an arterial wall
the bursting of a large aneurysm is usually life threatening, resulting in massive hemorrhage
Term
angiocarditis
Definition
inflammation of the heart and blood vessels
Term
angioma or
hemangioma
Definition
a tumor arising from a blood vessel
a benign clump of endothelium forming a mass
in some cases the mass can obstruct the blood vessel
Term
aortic insufficiency or
aortic regurgitation
Definition
failure of the aortic valve of preventing blood from returning to the left ventricle
from a failure to close completely
Term
aortic stenosis
Definition
a narrowing of the aortic valve
Term
aoritis
Definition
inflammation of the aorta
Term
ateriopathy
Definition
a general term for a disease of an artery
Term
ateriosclerosis
Definition
a condition of hardened arteries or artery
a thickened artery that has lost elasticity
if coronary arteries supplying the heart are damaged by this disease the condition is called arteriosclerotic heart disease
Term
atherosclerosis
Definition
a specific form of arteriosclerosis in which one or more fatty plaques form along the inner walls of arteries
Term
congenital heart disease
Definition
a general condition present at birth that centers on a malfunction of the heart
Term
atrial septal defect
Definition
a form of congenital heart disease where the infants heart allows blood to move between the two atria because of a small opening in the wall separating them
Term
atriomegaly
Definition
abnormally enlarged or dilated atria
Term
atrioventricular block
Definition
an injury to the atrioventricular node which normally receives impulses from the sinoatrial node and transmits then to the ventricles to stimulate ventricular contraction is called an atrioventricular block
usually caused by myocardial infarction
Term
cardiac arrest
Definition
the cessation of heart activity
Term
cardiac tamponade
Definition
acute compression of the heart due to accumulation of fluid within the pericardial cavity
Term
cardiomegaly
Definition
abnormal enlargement of the heart
Term
cardiomyopathy
Definition
a general term for a disease of the myocardium
Term
cardiovalvulitis
Definition
an inflammation of the valves of the heart
Term
coarctation
Definition
a congenital heart disease affecting the infants aorta
Term
congestive heart failure or
left ventricular failure
Definition
a chronic form of heart disease characterized by the failure of the left ventricle to pump enough blood to supply systemic tissues
it makes the heart work harder, resulting in cardiomegaly, pulmonary congestion, and reduced left ventricular function that eventually leads to cardiac arrest
the primary symptoms include shortness of breath and fatigue
Term
cor pulmonale or
right ventricular failure
Definition
a chronic enlargement of the right ventricle resulting from congestion of the pulmonary circulation
a french word that literally means
"heart lung"
Term
coronary artery disease
Definition
a general term for a disease that affects the coronary arteries supplying the heart
Term
coronary occlusion
Definition
occlusion is a general term that means blockage
coronary occlusion is a blockage within a coronary artery, resulting in a reduced blood flow to an area of the heart muscle
Term
embolism
Definition
a blockage or occlusion that forms when a blood clot or other foreign particle moves through the circulation
Term
endocarditis
Definition
inflammation of the endocardium
Term
endocardium
Definition
the thin membrane lining the inside walls of the heart chambers
Term
fibrillation
Definition
a condition of uncoordinated, rapid contractions of the muscle forming the ventricles or atria
Term
heart block
Definition
a block or delay of the normal electrical conduction of the heart
Term
heart murmur
Definition
an abnormal sound heard during ascultation of the heart
Term
hemorrhoids
Definition
the presence of dilated, or varicose, veins in the anal region
Term
hypertension
Definition
persistently high blood pressure
Term
essential hypertension
Definition
hypertension in which the condition is not traceable to a single cause
Term
secondary hypertension
Definition
hypertension caused by the effects of another disease
Term
hypotension
Definition
abnormally low blood pressure
Term
ischemia
Definition
abnormally low flow of blood to the tissues
Term
myocardial infarction
Definition
death of a portion of the myocardium
commonly called a heart attack
Term
myocarditis
Definition
inflammation of the myocardium of the heart
Term
patent ductus arteriosus
Definition
a congenital condition characterized by an opening between the pulmonary artery and the aorta at birth due to a failure of the fetal vessel, called the ductus arteriosus, to close
Term
pericarditis
Definition
inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart
Term
phlebitis
Definition
inflammation of a vein
Term
polyarteritis
Definition
simultaneous inflammation of many arteries
Term
septicemia
Definition
a bacterial infection of the blood stream
Term
tetralogy of fallot
Definition
a severe congenital disease in which four defects associated with the heart are present at birth
the four defects are pulmonary stenosis, ventricular septal defect, incorrect position of the aorta andright ventricular hypertrophy
Term
thrombosis
Definition
the presence of stationary blood clots within one or more blood vessels
Term
varicosis or
varicose vein
Definition
an abnormally dilated vein
Term
ventricular septal defect
Definition
a congenital disease in which an opening in the septum separating the right and left ventricles is present at birth
Term
angiography
Definition
a diagnostic procedure that includes x-ray, mri or ct scan images of a blood vessel after injection of a contrast medium
Term
angiogram
Definition
the image resulting from angiography
Term
cardiac or coronary angiogram
Definition
an angiogram focused on the heart
Term
angioplasty
Definition
the surgical repair of a blood vessel
Term
angioscopy
Definition
the use of an endoscope to observe a diseased blood vessel and to assess any lesions
Term
angiostomy
Definition
a surgical procedure that involves creation of an opening into a blood vessel
Term
angiotomy
Definition
a surgical incision into a blood vessel
Term
aortography
Definition
a procedure that obtains an x-ray, mri or ct scan image of the aorta
Term
arteriography
Definition
a procedure that obtains an image of an artery
Term
arteriogram
Definition
the image provided by arteriography
Term
arteriotomy
Definition
an incision into an artery
Term
aterioplasty
Definition
surgical repair of an injured artery
Term
arteriorrhaphy
Definition
the suturing of an opening in an artery
Term
cardiac catheterization
Definition
insertion of a narrow flexible tube, called a catheter, through a blood vessel leading into the heart
Term
cardiac pacemaker
Definition
a battery powered device that's implanted under the skin and wired to the inner wall of the heart to help control abnormal heart rhythms
Term
cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Definition
an emergency procedure that's used to maintain some blood flow to vital organs until the heart can be restarted
if the restoration of breathing is also needed, artificial respiration may also be included
Term
coronary artery bypass graft
Definition
a surgical procedure that involves removing a blood vessel from another part of the body and inserting it into the coronary circulation
Term
coronary stent
Definition
an artificial, metallic scaffold that's used to support an injured blood vessel, compress an artherosclerotic plaque, or anchor a surgical implant or graft
Term
defibrillation
Definition
an electric charge that may be applied to the chest wall to stop the heart conduction system momentarily, then restart it with a more normal heart rhythm
in most cases an automated external defibrillator is used
Term
implantable cardioverter defibrillator
Definition
a defibrillator device that's smaller and can be implanted under the skin with electrodes terminating directly on the heart
Term
doppler sonography
Definition
an ultrasound that evaluates blood flow through a blood vessel
Term
echocardiography
Definition
an ultrasound of the heart to observe heart structures in an effort to evaluate heart function
Term
electrocardiography
Definition
a procedure in which electrodes are pasted to the skin of the chest to detect and record the electrical events of the heart conduction system
Term
electrocardiogram
Definition
the record or image produced by electrocardiography
Term
stress electrocardiography or
treadmill stress test
Definition
electrocardiography when measured during physical activity using a treadmill or stationary bicycle
Term
embolectomy
Definition
the surgical removal of a floating blood clot, or embolus
Term
endarterectomy
Definition
the removal of the inner lining of an artery to remove a fatty plaque
Term
holter monitor
Definition
a portable electrocardiograph
may be worn by the patient to monitor electrical activity of the heart over 24 hour periods
Term
nitroglycerin
Definition
a drug that's commonly used as an emergency vasodilator as a treatment for severe angina pectoris or myocardial infarction
Term
phlebectomy
Definition
surgical removal of a vein
Term
phlebotomy or
venipuncture
Definition
a puncture into a vein to remove blood for sampling or donation
Term
phlebotomist
Definition
a healthcare professional who performs phlebotomy
Term
positron emission tomography scan
Definition
a noninvasive procedure that provides blood flow images
PET scan
combined with radioactive isotope labeling may be used to produce images of the heart to reveal functional defects
Term
sphygmomanometry
Definition
a common procedure that measures arterial blood pressure
Term
sphygmomanometer
Definition
a device used for sphygmomanometry
Term
thrombolytic therapy
Definition
treatments to dissolve unwanted blood clots
Term
valvuloplasty
Definition
the surgical repair of a heart valve
Term
AED
Definition
automated external defibrillator
Term
A-fib
Definition
atrial fibrillation
Term
AI
Definition
aortic insufficiency
Term
AS
Definition
aortic stenosis
Term
ASD
Definition
atrial septal defect
Term
ASHD
Definition
arteriosclerotic heart disease
Term
AV
Definition
atrioventricular
Term
CABG
Definition
coronary artery bypass graft
Term
CAD
Definition
coronary artery disease
Term
CHF
Definition
congestive heart failure
Term
CP
Definition
chest pain
Term
CPR
Definition
cardiopulmonary resuscitaion
Term
ECG, EKG
Definition
electrocardiogram
Term
ICD
Definition
implantable cardioverter defibrillator
Term
LA
Definition
left atrium
Term
LV
Definition
left ventricle
Term
MI
Definition
myocardial infarction
Term
MVP
Definition
mitral valve prolapse
Term
PET
Definition
positron emission tomography
Term
RA
Definition
right atrium
Term
RV
Definition
right ventricle
Term
SCA
Definition
sudden cardiac arrest
Term
VSD
Definition
ventricular septal defect
Term
respiratory system
Definition
brings oxygen into the bloodstream, through which it's transported to all body cells
also removes the waste product, carbon dioxide, from the blood and channels it outside the body
Term
respiration
Definition
the process of providing cells with oxygen
Term
upper respiratory tract
Definition
a series of chambers and tubes
including the nasal cavity, pharynx and larynx
Term
lower respiratory tract
Definition
the lower portion of the respiratory system consisting of the trachea in the neck and chest, the bronchial tree, which branches extensively throughout the lungs, the tiny air sacs within the lungs known as alveoli and the lungs themselves
Term
alveoli
Definition
a small air sac in the lungs, where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged with the blood
Term
oxygen
Definition
a gas in air that's necessary to maintain life
Term
carbon dioxide
Definition
a gas which is the byproduct of cellular metabolism and which collects in the tissues, is cleared from the tissues by the blood within the veins, is carried by the hemoglobin in the red blood cells, and removed from the body via the lungs in the exhaled air
Term
palate
Definition
the roof of the mouth
Term
tonsil
Definition
either of a pair of small masses of lymphoid tissue that lie on each side of the throat and that help protect the body against infection
Term
epiglottis
Definition
the flap that covers the trachea during swallowing, so that food does not enter the lungs
Term
thyroid
Definition
the thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits low on the front of the neck
the thyroid secretes several hormones, collectively called thyroid hormones t
he main hormone is thyroxine, also called T4
thyroid hormones act throughout the body, influencing metabolism, growth and development, and body temperature
Term
pharynx
Definition
the part of the throat that is behind the mouth and nasal cavity and above the esophagus and the larynx, or the tubes going down to the stomach and the lungs
Term
trachea
Definition
a cartilaginous tube that connects the pharynx and larynx to the lungs, allowing the passage of air
Term
lungs
Definition
the primary organs of the respiratory system
Term
main bronchus
Definition
a bronchus, is a passage of airway in the respiratory system that conducts air into the lungs
the first bronchi to branch from the trachea are the right main bronchus and the left main bronchus
Term
pulmonary medicine
Definition
the medical specialty dealing with diseases of the respiratory tract
Term
pulmonologist
Definition
a physician specializing in pulmonary medicine
Term
ear, nose and throat or
otorhinolaryngology or
otolaryngology
Definition
the subspecialty within medicine that deals with conditions of the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) and related structures of the head and neck
Term
otolaryngologist
Definition
a physician specializing in otorhinolaryngology
or otolaryngology
Term
respiratory therapist
Definition
a healthcare professional trained in the operation of equipment used to diagnose or treat breathing problems
Term
anoxia
Definition
the absence of oxygen
Term
aphonia
Definition
the absence of voice
Term
apnea
Definition
longer than normal pause between breaths
Term
sleep apnea
Definition
a common form of apnea, in which one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths occur while sleeping
Term
bradypnea
Definition
abnormal slowing of the breathing rhythm
Term
bronchospasm
Definition
a narrowing of the airway caused by contraction of the smooth muscles in the walls of the tiny tubes known as bronchioles within the lungs
Term
cheyne-stokes respiration
Definition
a repeated pattern of distressed breathing marked by a gradual increase of deep breathing, followed by shallow breathing and apnea
it's a sign of brain dysfunction or congestive heart failure
Term
dysphonia
Definition
the symptom of a hoarse voice
Term
dyspnea
Definition
the symptom of difficult breathing, usually caused by a respiratory disease or cardiac disorder
Term
eupnea
Definition
normal breathing rhythm
Term
epistaxis or
rhinorrhagia
Definition
clinical term for a nosebleed
Term
hemoptysis
Definition
the symptom of coughing up and spitting out blood
Term
hemothorax
Definition
the pooling of blood within the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs
Term
hypercapnia
Definition
excessive levels of carbon dioxide in the blood
Term
hypocapnia
Definition
abnormally low carbon dioxide levels in the blood
Term
hyperpnea
Definition
the sign of abnormally deep breathing or abnormally high rate of breathing
Term
hypopnea
Definition
abnormally shallow breathing
Term
hypoventilation
Definition
a reduced breathing rhythm that fails to meet the body's gas exchange demands
Term
hyperventilation
Definition
the state of breathing faster or deeper than necessary
Term
hypoxemia
Definition
abnormally low levels of oxygen in the blood
Term
hypoxia
Definition
the sign of abnormally low levels of oxygen throughout the body
Term
laryngospasm
Definition
the closure of the glottis due to muscular contractions of the throat
Term
orthopnea
Definition
the limited ability to breath when lying down and becomes relieved when sitting upright
Term
paroxysm
Definition
a sudden onset of symptomatic sharp pain or a convulsion
Term
sputum
Definition
an expectorated (coughed out from the lungs) matter containing mucus, inhaled particulates and sometimes pus or blood
Term
thoracalgia or
thoracodynia
Definition
the symptom of pain in the chest region
Term
asphyxia
Definition
the absence of respiratory ventilation, or suffocation
Term
asthma
Definition
a condition of the lungs that's characterized by widespread narrowing of the bronchioles and formation of mucous plugs
symptoms of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain and frequent coughing, the frequency of which varies with every patient
it's regarded as an inflammatory response to an allergenic substance by the lungs
Term
asthmatic bronchitis
Definition
asthma complicated with bronchitis
Term
atelectasis
Definition
trauma or disease disabling the protective mechanism of the alveoli to retain a small amount of air at all times, which prevents them from collapsing
when most or all of the alveoli in a lung collapse, the condition is commonly called collapsed lung
Term
bronchiectasis
Definition
chronic, abnormal dilation of the bronchi
Term
bronchitis
Definition
inflammation of the bronchi
can be caused by an infection, smoking and/or allergies
Term
bronchogenic carcinoma
Definition
an aggressive form of cancer arising from cells within the bronchi
a form of lung cancer
Term
lung cancer
Definition
cancer of the lungs
Term
bronchopneumonia or
lobar pneumonia
Definition
an acute inflammatory disease involving the bronchioles and the alveoli
usually caused by a bacterial infection that involves the bronchi and the soft tissue of the lungs, causing the alveoli to fill with fluid, leading to a loss of air space
Term
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Definition
a reduced flow of air to and from the alveoli as a result of chronic bronchitis and emphysema appearing simultaneously
a progressive disease that makes breathing very difficult and is primarily caused by smoking tobacco products
Term
coccidioidomycosis or
valley fever
Definition
a fungal infection of the upper respiratory tract, which often spread to the lungs and other organs
Term
coryza or
rhinitis
Definition
inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the nasal cavity, usually causing a running nose, nasal congestion and loss of smell
Term
croup or clinically
laryngotracheobronchitis
Definition
an infectious illness of the larynx, especially in young children, causing respiratory difficulty
the cough resembles the bark of a dog or seal
Term
cystic fibrosis
Definition
a severe hereditary disease that's characterized by excessive mucus production in the respiratory tract, digestive tract and elsewhere
Term
emphysema
Definition
a chronic lung disease characterized by the symptoms of dyspnea, a chronic cough, formation of a barrel chest due to labored breathing and a gradual deterioration caused by chronic hypoxia
Term
epiglottitis
Definition
inflammation of the epiglottis
Term
laryngitis
Definition
inflammation of the larynx
Term
lgionellosis
Definition
a form of pneumonia caused by the bacteria legionella pneumophila
Term
nasopharyngitis
Definition
inflammation of the nose and pharynx
Term
pertussis
Definition
an acute infectious disease characterized by inflammation of the larynx, trachea and bronchi that produces spasmodic coughing
Term
pharyngitis
Definition
inflammation of the pharynx
Term
pleural effusion
Definition
fluid leaked into the pleural cavity
Term
pleuritis
Definition
inflammation of the pleural membranes
Term
pneumoconiosis
Definition
inflammation of the lungs when caused by the chronic inhalation of fine particles
Term
pneumonia
Definition
inflammation of soft lung tissue that results in the formation of exudate (fluid) within alveoli
usually caused by bacterial, viral or fungal pathogens, which trigger an inflammatory response, although it can be caused by smoke inhalation
Term
pneumonitis
Definition
an inflammatory condition of the lungs that is independent of a particular cause
Term
pneumothorax
Definition
the abnormal presence or air or gas within the pleural cavity
Term
pulmonary edema
Definition
the accumulation of fluid within the lungs as a response to infection or injury
Term
pulmonary embolism
Definition
a blockage caused by an embolus lodged in the pulmonary circulation
Term
pyothorax
Definition
the presence of pus in the pleural cavity
Term
respiratory distress syndrome
Definition
a severe respiratory disease that's characterized by rapid respiratory failure
Term
neonatal respiratory distress syndrome
Definition
a form of RDS caused by insufficient surfactant in premature neonates
Term
adult (or acute) respiratory distress syndrome
Definition
caused by severe lung infections or injury that result in damage to capillary walls and bronchioles, causing a rapid accumulation of purulent fluid into alveoli and bronchioles that places the patient in immediate danger of "drowning in their own fluids"
Term
rhinitis
Definition
inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity
Term
severe acute respiratory syndrome
Definition
a severe, rapid-onset viral infection resulting in respiratory distress that includes acute lung inflammation, alveolar damage, and atelectasis
usually caused by a virus
Term
sinusitis
Definition
similar to rhinitis
inflammation of the nasal cavity and also the paranasal sinuses
Term
tonsillitis
Definition
inflammation of one or more tonsils
Term
tracheitis
Definition
inflammation of the trachea
Term
tracheostenosis
Definition
a narrowing of the trachea
Term
tuberculosis
Definition
infection of the lungs by the bacterium mycobacterium tuberculosis
Term
upper respiratory tract infection
Definition
a generalized infection of the upper respiratory tract
Term
acid-fast bacilli smear
Definition
a clinical test performed on sputum to identify the presence of bacteria that react to acid
Term
adenoidectomy
Definition
surgical removal of the adenoid
Term
adenoid
Definition
one of two folds of lymphatic tissue covered by ciliated epithelium
they are found in the roof and posterior wall of the nasopharynx at the back of the throat behind the uvula
they may obstruct normal breathing and make speech difficult when swollen, a condition often called adenitis
Term
antihistamine
Definition
a therapeutic drug that inhibits the effects of histamines
Term
histamine
Definition
a compound released by certain cells in response to allergens
cause bronchial restriction and blood vessel dilation resulting in edema
Term
arterial blood gas
Definition
a clinical test on arterial blood to identify the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide
Term
aspiration
Definition
the removal or air, fluid, or foreign bodies with suction
Term
auscultation
Definition
a procedure that involves listening to sounds within the body as part of a physical examination, often with the aid of a stethoscope
Term
bronchodilation
Definition
a procedure that uses a bronchodilating agent to relax the smooth muscles of the airways in an effort to stop bronchial constriction
Term
bronchography
Definition
the x-ray imaging of the bronchi
Term
bronchogram
Definition
the x-ray image produced by bronchography
Term
bronchoscopy
Definition
a procedure using a modified endoscope to observe the trachea and bronchi
Term
chest CT scan
Definition
diagnostic imaging of the chest by a CT scan
Term
chest x-ray
Definition
an x-ray image of the thoracic cavity
Term
CPAP
Definition
continuous positive airway pressure
a device that's commonly used to regulate breathing during sleep as a treatment for sleep apnea
Term
endotrachial
Definition
pertaining to within the trachea
Term
endotracheal intubation
Definition
insertion of a noncollapsible breathing tube into the trachea through the nose or mouth
performed to open the airway of the patient or to keep the airway open
Term
expectorant
Definition
a drug that breaks up mucus and promotes the coughing reflex to expel the mucus
Term
incentive spirometry
Definition
a postoperative breathing therapy to promote deeper breathing to improve lung expansion
Term
spirometer
Definition
a device used for spirometry
Term
inhaler
Definition
a small handheld device containing a prescription medication, such as a bronchodilator, that delivers aerosolized medicine for inhalation
Term
laryngectomy
Definition
surgical removal of the larynx
Term
laryngoscopy
Definition
an endoscopic diagnostic procedure to visually examine the larynx
Term
laryngotracheotomy
Definition
a surgical incision into the larynx and trachea
usually performed to provide a secondary opening for inspiration and expiration, allowing air to bypass the upper respiratory tract
Term
lobectomy
Definition
surgical removal of a single, or more lobes of a lung
Term
mechanical ventilation
Definition
a medical treatment to provide supplemental oxygen to patients in respiratory distress
Term
ventilator
Definition
a device that pushes air into a patient's airway
Term
nebulizer
Definition
a device used to convert a liquid medication to a mist and deliver it to the lungs
Term
oximetry
Definition
the procedure that measures oxygen levels in the blood
Term
oximeter
Definition
the instrument used to perform oximetry
Term
pleurocentesis or
thoracentesis or
thoracocentesis
Definition
the surgical puncture and aspiration of fluid from the pleural cavity
Term
pneumonectomy
Definition
surgical removal of a lung
Term
pulmonary angiography
Definition
a diagnostic procedure that evaluates the blood circulation of the lungs
Term
pulmonary function tests
Definition
a series of diagnostic tests performed to determine the cause of lung disease by evaluating lung capacity
Term
pulmonary resuscitation
Definition
an emergency procedure that's used to restore breathing
Term
rhinoplasty
Definition
surgical repair of the nose
may or may not be cosmetic
Term
septoplasty
Definition
surgical repair of the nasal septum
Term
TB skin test or
PPD skin test or
mantoux skin test
Definition
a simple skin test to determine the presence of tuberculosis
Term
thoracostomy
Definition
surgical puncture into the chest cavity, usually for insertion of a drainage or air tube
Term
thoracotomy
Definition
surgical incision into the chest wall
Term
tracheoplasty
Definition
surgical repair of the trachea
Term
tracheostomy
Definition
surgical creation of an opening into the trachea, usually for the insertion of a breathing tube
Term
tracheotomy
Definition
a surgical incision into the trachea
Term
ventilation-perfusion scanning
Definition
a diagnostic tool that uses nuclear medicine, or the use of radioactive material, to evaluate pulmonary function
can identify pulmonary embolism and pulmonary edema
also called a lung scan
Term
ABGs
Definition
arterial blood gases
Term
AFB
Definition
acid-fast bacilli
Term
ARDS
Definition
adult (acute) respiratory distress syndrome
Term
CF
Definition
cystic fibrosis
Term
COPD
Definition
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Term
CXR
Definition
chest x-ray
Term
NRDS
Definition
neonatal respiratory distress syndrome
Term
NSCLC
Definition
non-small cell lung cancer
Term
PE
Definition
pulmonary embolism
Term
PPD
Definition
purified protein derivative
Term
PFTs
Definition
pulmonary function tests
Term
RDS
Definition
respiratory distress syndrome
Term
SARS
Definition
severe acute respiratory syndrome
Term
SCLC
Definition
small cell lung cancer
Term
sob
Definition
shortness of breath
Term
TB
Definition
tuberculosis
Term
URI
Definition
upper respiratory infection
Term
V/Q scan
Definition
ventilation-perfusion scanning
Term
BCC
Definition
basal cell carcinoma
Term
bx, Bx
Definition
biopsy
Term
SLE
Definition
systemic lupus erythematosus
Term
SqCCa
Definition
squamous cell carcinoma
Term
TBSA
Definition
total body surface area
Term
digestive system
Definition
converts food into a form the body can use for energy, growth and repair
Term
GI tract
Definition
hollow organs that make up the GI tract are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus
which takes in food, digests it to extract and absorb energy and nutrients, and expels the remaining waste as feces
Term
digestion
Definition
the breakdown of large insoluble food molecules into small water-soluble food molecules so that they can be absorbed into the watery blood plasma
Term
pharynx
Definition
is the part of the throat that is behind the mouth and nasal cavity and above the esophagus and the larynx, or the tubes going down to the stomach and the lungs
the pharynx is part of the digestive system and also of the conducting zone of the respiratory system
Term
esophagus
Definition
commonly known as the food pipe or gullet (gut), is an organ through which food passes, aided by peristaltic contractions, from the pharynx to the stomach
Term
stomach
Definition
a muscular, hollow organ in the gastrointestinal tract
located between the esophagus and the small intestine
it secretes digestive enzymes and gastric acid to aid in food digestion
Term
pancreas
Definition
a glandular organ in the digestive system
an endocrine gland producing several important hormones, including insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide, all of which circulate in the blood
the pancreas is also a digestive organ, secreting pancreatic juice containing bicarbonate to neutralize acidity of chyme moving in from the stomach, as well as digestive enzymes that assist digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. These enzymes help to further break down the carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids in the chyme
the pancreas is known as a mixed gland
Term
small intestine
Definition
part of the gastrointestinal tract between the stomach and the large intestine, and is where most of the end absorption of food takes place
the small intestine has three distinct regions – the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum
the primary function of the small intestine is the absorption of nutrients and minerals from food, using small finger-like protrusions called villi
Term
large intestine
Definition
also known as the large bowel or colon, is the last part of the gastrointestinal tract and of the digestive system
water is absorbed here and the remaining waste material is stored as feces before being removed by defecation
Term
gallbladder
Definition
a small hollow organ where bile is stored and concentrated before it is released into the small intestine
lies beneath the liver
it receives and stores bile, produced by the liver, via the common hepatic duct, and releases it via the common bile duct into the duodenum, where the bile helps in the digestion of fats
Term
liver
Definition
detoxifies various metabolites, synthesizes proteins, and produces biochemicals necessary for digestion
it is located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, below the diaphragm
its other roles in metabolism include the regulation of glycogen storage, decomposition of red blood cells and the production of hormones
Term
teeth
Definition
a hard, calcified structure found in the jaws (or mouths) and used to break down food
Term
palate
Definition
the roof of the mouth
Term
uvula
Definition
is a conic projection from the posterior edge of the middle of the soft palate, composed of connective tissue containing a number of racemose glands, and some muscular fibers (musculus uvulae)
also contains a large number of serous glands that produce a lot of thin saliva
Term
tongue
Definition
a muscular organ in the mouth that manipulates food for mastication, and is used in the act of swallowing
it is of importance in the digestive system and is the primary organ of taste in the gustatory system
the tongue's upper surface (dorsum) is covered by taste buds housed in numerous lingual papillae
it is sensitive and kept moist by saliva, and is richly supplied with nerves and blood vessels
the tongue also serves as a natural means of cleaning the teeth
a major function of the tongue is the enabling of speech
Term
intestinal flora
Definition
the complex community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract
Term
aphagia
Definition
the inability to swallow
Term
ascites
Definition
an accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity that produces an enlarged abdomen
a sign of liver disease, congestive heart failure or irritation to the peritoneum
Term
constipation
Definition
infrequent or incomplete bowel movements
Term
diarrhea
Definition
a frequent discharge of watery fecal matter
Term
dyspepsia
Definition
commonly called indigestion
condition of difficult digestion
Term
dysphagia
Definition
difficulty swallowing
Term
flatus
Definition
the presence of gas or air in the digestive tract
Term
gastrodynia or
gastralgia
Definition
stomach pain
abdominal pain
Term
halitosis
Definition
the clinical term for bad breath
Term
hematemesis
Definition
vomiting blood
Term
hepatomegaly
Definition
abnormal enlargement of the liver
Term
jaundice
Definition
a yellowish, orange discoloration of the skin, sclera of the eyes and deeper tissues & is a collective sign of liver disease
Term
nausea
Definition
a symptom of dizziness that includes an urge to vomit
Term
reflux
Definition
a backward flow of material in the GI tract
regurgitation
Term
steatorrhea
Definition
abnormal levels of fat in the feces
Term
anorexia nervosa
Definition
an emotional eating disorder in which the patient avoids food because of a compulsion to become thin in appearance
Term
appendicitis
Definition
inflammation of the appendix
Term
bulimia
Definition
a common eating disorder involving repeated gorging with food followed by induced vomiting or laxative abuse
Term
cheilitis
Definition
inflammation of the lip
Term
cholecystitis
Definition
inflammation of the gallbladder
Term
choledochitis
Definition
inflammation of the common bile duct
Term
choledocholithiasis
Definition
inflammation of the bile duct combined with the presence of stones within the duct
Term
cholelithiasis
Definition
a generalized condition of stones lodged within the gallbladder or bile duct
Term
cirrhosis
Definition
a chronic, progressive liver disease characterized by the gradual loss of liver cells and their replacement by fat and other forms of connective tissue
Term
cleft palate
Definition
a congenital defect in which the bones supporting the roof of the mouth, or hard palate, fail to fuse during fetal development
Term
colitis
Definition
inflammation of the colon
Term
colorectal cancer
Definition
cancer of the colon and/or rectum
Term
crohn disease or
regional ileitis or
regional enteritis
Definition
a chronic inflammation of any part of the GI tract, most commonly the ileum of the small intestine, that involves ulcerations, scar tissue formation and thickening adhesions of the organ wall
Term
diverticulosis
Definition
the presence of diverticula
Term
diverticula
Definition
small pouches formed on the wall of the colon
Term
diverticulitis
Definition
the condition of inflamed diverticula
Term
duodenal ulcer
Definition
an ulcer, or erosion, in the wall of the duodenum
Term
dysentery
Definition
an acute inflammation of the GI tract that's caused by bacteria, protozoa or chemical irritants
Term
enteritis
Definition
inflammation of the small or large intestine
Term
esophagitis
Definition
inflammation of the esophagus
Term
food-borne illness
Definition
ingestion of food contaminated with harmful bacteria causing symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting
Term
gastrectasis
Definition
abnormal stretching or dilation of the stomach
Term
gastric cancer
Definition
stomach cancer
an aggressive, metastatic cancer
Term
gastric ulcer
Definition
an ulcer, or erosion, in the wall of the stomach
Term
gastritis
Definition
inflammation of the stomach
Term
gastroenteritis
Definition
gastritis also with inflammation of the small intestine
Term
gastroduodenitis
Definition
gastroenteritis with involvement of the duodenum
Term
gastroenterocolitis
Definition
gastroenteritis combined with inflammation of the colon
Term
gastroesophageal
Definition
of or relating to the stomach and to the esophagus
Term
gastroesophageal reflux disease
Definition
a recurring backflow, or reflux, of stomach contents into the esophagus
Term
gastromalacia
Definition
the softening of the stomach wall
Term
giardiasis
Definition
infection by the intestinal protozoa giardia intestinalis or giardia lamblia
produces sypmtoms of diarrhea, cramps, nausea and vomiting
Term
gingivitis
Definition
inflammation of the gums
Term
glossitis
Definition
inflammation of the tongue
Term
glossopathy
Definition
any disease of the tongue
Term
hepatitis
Definition
a viral induced inflammation of the liver
Term
(malignant) hepatoma or
hepatocellular carcinoma
Definition
a tumor arising from the cells within the liver
Term
hernia
Definition
an abnormal protrusion through a body wall
Term
inflammatory bowel disease
Definition
a general term that includes the conditions ulcerative colitis and crohn disease
Term
intussusception
Definition
infolding of a segment of the small intestine within another segment
Term
irritable bowel syndrome
Definition
a chronic disease characterized by periodic disturbances of large intestinal (bowel) function without clear physical damage
include abdominal pain caused by muscle spasms and flatus
Term
lactose intolerance
Definition
a lack of the enzyme that breaks down lactose, the primary sugar in milk and milk products
Term
malabsorption syndrome
Definition
a disorder characterized by difficulty absorbing one or more nutrients
Term
celiac disease
Definition
a long-term autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine
caused by a reaction to gluten, which are various proteins found in wheat and in other grains such as barley and rye
Term
gluten sensitivity enteropathy
Definition
a clinical entity induced by the ingestion of gluten leading to intestinal symptoms that improve once the gluten-containing foodstuff is removed from the diet, and celiac disease and wheat allergy have been excluded
Term
pancreatitis
Definition
inflammation of the pancreas
Term
parotitis or
sialoadenitis
Definition
inflammation of the salivary gland(s)
Term
parotid glands
Definition
the salivary glands
Term
mumps
Definition
a virus that causes the parotid glands to swell
Term
peptic ulcer
Definition
general term for an erosion into the inner wall of an organ along the GI tract
Term
peritonitis
Definition
inflammation of the peritoneum
Term
peritoneum
Definition
the extensive membrane that lines the inner wall of the abdominopelvic cavity and covers most of its organs
Term
polyposis
Definition
the presence of many polyps
Term
polyp
Definition
any abnormal mass of tissue that projects inward from the wall of a hollow organ
Term
proctitis
Definition
inflammation of the anus, and usually the rectum as well
Term
proctoptosis
Definition
a drooping, or prolapse of the rectum
Term
volvulus
Definition
a severe twisting of the intestine that leads to obstruction
Term
abdoninocentesis or
paracentesis
Definition
a surgical puncture through the abdominal wall to remove fluid
Term
antacid
Definition
an agent that reduces the acidity of the stomach cavity
Term
proton pump inhibitors
Definition
a stronger antacid which inhibits the amount of acid production
Term
antiemetic
Definition
a drug that prevents or stops the vomiting reflex
Term
antispasmodic
Definition
a drug that reduces peristalsis activity in the GI tract, which arrests the muscular spasms involved in diarrhea
Term
antidiarrheal
Definition
an agent used for treating diarrhea usually acting by increasing water absorption in the colon while decreasing spasms
Term
appendendectomy
Definition
the surgical removal of the appendix
Term
bariatric surgery
Definition
a surgical procedure for treating obesity
some forms reduce the volume of the stomach, whereas others bypass the stomach completely
Term
cathartic
Definition
an agent that stimulates strong waves or peristalsis of the colon
Term
cheilorrhaphy
Definition
the procedure of suturing a lip
Term
cholecystectomy
Definition
the surgical removal of the gallbladder
Term
cholecystogram
Definition
an x-ray image of the gallbladder
Term
cholecystography
Definition
the procedure of producing an x-ray image of the gallbladder
Term
choledocholithotomy
Definition
the surgery that involves the removal of one or more obstructive gallstones from the common bile duct
Term
colonoscopy
Definition
an endoscopic visual inspection of the colon's interior
Term
colectomy
Definition
surgical removal of a segment of the colon
Term
colostomy
Definition
surgical creation of an opening into the colon
the opening that is created serves as an artificial anus, usually following the excision of the distal part of the colon
Term
stoma
Definition
the term for a surgically constructed opening
for example as in created by a colostomy
Term
fecal occult blood test
Definition
a clinical lab test performed to detect blood in the feces
Term
fecal
Definition
of or pertaining to feces
Term
feces
Definition
digested waste material (typically solid or semi-solid) discharged from the bowels; excrement
Term
gastrectomy
Definition
surgical removal of part of the stomach, or in extreme cases the entire stomach
Term
gastric lavage
Definition
a cleansing procedure in which the stomach is irrigated with a prescribed solution
Term
colonic irrigation
Definition
a cleansing procedure in which the colon is irrigated with a prescribed solution
Term
enema
Definition
if the unwanted material is a fecal blockage then an enema is used
Term
gavage
Definition
the process of feeding a patient through a tube inserted into the nose that extends through the esophagus to enter the stomach
Term
nasogastric tube
Definition
the tube used for gavage
Term
GI endoscopy
Definition
endoscopic visual examination of the interior of the GI tract organs
Term
esophagoscopy
Definition
procedure using a specialized endoscope to view the esophagus
Term
gastroscopy
Definition
procedure using a specialized endoscope to view the stomach
Term
esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Definition
procedure using a specialized endoscope to view/examine the esophagus, stomach and duodenum
Term
sigmoidoscopy
Definition
endoscopy of the sigmoid colon
Term
proctoscopy
Definition
endoscopy of the rectum
Term
GI series
Definition
a common term applied to several diagnostic techniques that provide radiographic examination of the GI tract
Term
upper GI series
Definition
GI series in which barium is ingested to provide x-ray images of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum
uses barium shake, barium swallow or barium meal
Term
lower GI series
Definition
barium enema is used to produce x-ray images of the lower GI tract
Term
gingivectomy
Definition
surgical removal of diseased tissue in the gums
Term
glossarrhaphy
Definition
suturing of the tongue
Term
hemorrhoidectomy
Definition
surgical removal of hemorrhoids
Term
herniorrhaphy
Definition
suturing of a hernia
Term
ileostomy
Definition
a surgical creation of an opening through the abdominal wall and into the ileum of the small intestine
Term
laparotomy
Definition
the surgical procedure that involves an incision through the abdominal wall, often from the base of the sternum to the pubic bone
Term
laparoscopy
Definition
an alternative to a laparotomy in which a modified endoscope equipped with a camera and surgical instruments is inserted through the abdominal wall via one or more small incisions
minimally invasive
Term
laparoscope
Definition
the instrument used for laparoscopy
Term
polyectomy
Definition
the surgical removal of polyps
Term
pyloroplasty
Definition
surgical repair of the pylorus region of the stomach
Term
stool culture and sesitivity
Definition
a fecal sample test in which the samples are used to grow microorganisms in culture if a pathogen is a suspected cause of a disease
Term
vagotomy
Definition
the surgical dissection of branches of the vagus nerve in an effort to reduce gastric juice secretion
Term
vagus nerve
Definition
a cranial nerve that innervates much of the GI tract, providing sensory information to the brain relating to digestion and stimulating peristalsis of GI tract organs
Term
BE
Definition
barium enema
Term
C&S
Definition
stool culture and sensitivity
Term
EGD
Definition
esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Term
FOBT
Definition
fecal occult blood test
Term
GERD
Definition
gastroesophageal reflux disease
Term
GI
Definition
gastrointestinal
Term
HCC
Definition
hepatocellular carcinoma
Term
IBD
Definition
inflammatory bowel disease
Term
IBS
Definition
irritable bowel syndrome
Term
LGI
Definition
lower GI series
Term
LI
Definition
lactose intolerance
Term
N&V
Definition
nausea and vomiting
Term
UGI
Definition
upper GI series
Term
-a
Definition
singular
Term
-ae
Definition
plural
Term
suffix
Definition
a word part that's attached to the end of a word
Term
prefix
Definition
a word part that's placed before the root to modify its meaning
Term
meta-
Definition
after of change
Term
anatomy
Definition
the study of structure of the body
identification of body components
Term
disease
Definition
an abnormal condition that causes discomfort or dysfunction; distinct from injury insofar as the latter is usually instantaneously acquired
Term
structure
Definition
parts, anatomy of the body
Term
functions
Definition
the processes of the body
called systems in physiology
Term
infectious disease
Definition
the presence of infection results in the development of infectious disease
Term
pathology
Definition
a field of medicine that studies disease
Term
pathologist
Definition
a physician who specializes in pathology
Term
homeostasis disease
Definition
when body functions fail to maintain homeostasis
a state of the body in which homeostasis has faltered due to any cause
Term
diaphram
Definition
a muscular partition that divides the ventral cavity into an upper and lower cavity
Term
thoracic cavity
Definition
the cavity that's superior to the diaphram
Term
abdominal cavity
Definition
the upper area of the abdominopelvic cavity
Term
pelvic cavity
Definition
part of the abdominopelvic cavity that begins at the iliac crest and continues to the base of the abdominopelvic cavity
Term
cranial cavity
Definition
part of the dorsal cavity which houses the brain
Term
spinal (vertebral) cavity
Definition
part of the dorsal cavity which houses the spinal cord
Term
abdominal quadrants
Definition
a second set of abdominal divisions
Term
LUQ
Definition
left upper quadrant
Term
RUQ
Definition
right upper quadrant
Term
RLQ
Definition
right lower quadrant
Term
LLQ
Definition
left lower quadrant
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