Medical Dictionary
Medical Dictionary
Algia
State of pain.
Acystia
Congenital absence of urinary bladder
Abrachiocephaly
Congenital absence of arms and head
Acrodynia
Pain in the hands and feet
Algia
State of pain
Atactic
Difficulty in walking
Ablastin
An antibody that seems to inhibit reproduction of trypanosome; found in rats
Appendicitis
Inflammation of the appendix
Atherosclerosis
Disease of blood vessels characterized by deposition of fat on the inside of the walls of large to medium-sized arteries making them hard and brittle and prone to blockage
Axon
The single outlet from a nerve cell that carries electrical signals away from the cell.
Autotransfusion
Injection of a person’s own blood, taken out previously into his body during an operation
Autism
A mental disorder characterised by problems in social interaction, language and emotional expression. Autism is characterised by extreme adherance to an inflexible routine with stereotypical and repetitive behaviour
Audiogram
A graphic record of hearing measured at various frequencies to determine hearing loss.
Atrialseptal defect
a hole between the upper chambers of the heart.
Amyloidosis
A disease characterised by the accumulation of the amyloid protein in various organs and tissues of the body.
Amputation
The cutting off of a limb or a part of a limb. 2. In dentistry, removal of the root of a tooth.
Amenorrhoea
Absence or abnormal stoppage of the monthly periods in women.
Amblyopia
Poor vision caused by abnormal development of the vision areas of the brain mostly due to inadequate stimulation during early life.
Allergy
Hypersensitivity to a particular allergen (irritant) like dust or certain drugs, resulting in an increased reactivity to that allergen on future exposure.
Alimentary
Relating to food or nutrition.
Aging
The process of growing old, where damaged cells fail to be replaced in sufficient numbers and thus bodily degeneration occurs.
Avascular
Without blood or lymphatic vessels
Anhedonia
Absence of pleasure from the performance of activities that would ordinarily be pleasurable
Adenomegaly
Enlargement of a gland
Acardia
Congenital absence of the heart; a condition occurring in one member of monozygotic twins or in one member of conjoined twins when one of the pair partner monopolises the placental blood supply; can also occur in triplet pregnancies
Bariatrics
Branch of medicine concerned with the medical or surgical management of obesity and associated diseases
Ballismus
A type of involuntary movement affecting the limbs, sometimes only affecting one side of the body
Barotitis media
Inflammation of mucous membrane of middle ear caused by rapid changes in altitude and air pressure
Balanoplasty
Surgical reconstruction of glans penis
Balanoposthitis
Inflammation of the glans penis and prepuce
Balantidiasis
A disease caused by Balantidium coli; with symptoms of diarrhoea, dysentery, abdominal pain, and weight loss
Biopsy
The process of removing a mass of cells from patients body for finding out the disease or a problem.
Bilirubin
a yellow bile pigment; excess of which causes jaundice
Beriberi
A disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin B in diet
Bronchopneumonia
Acute swelling of the walls of the smaller bronchial tubes.
Bypass
To create new flow from one structure to the other through a channel.
Blood brain barrier (BBB)
A mechanism that prevents the passage of substances from the blood to brain.
Bronchiolitis
Inflammation of the broncioles (air passages), seen in case of lung infection
Barium
A metallic element; Insoluble salts of barium are often used in X-ray studies
Bronchoscope
An apparatus used for seeing the inside of the air passages either for diagnostic purposes or for the removal of foreign bodies.
Basic life support
Emergency first aid for the control of bleeding, treatment of shock, poisoning, injuries and wounds, and basic first aid.
Ballottement
An action used in physical examination to estimate the size of an organ , by a flicking motion of the hand or fingers similar to that involved in dribbling a basketball.
Ballismus
A type of involuntary movement affecting the limbs, sometimes only affecting one side of the body
Brucellosis
An infectious disease caused by the bacterium Brucella, characterized by fever, sweating,aches and pains and transmitted to humans by direct contact with diseased animals of through ingestion of infected meat.
Bacteriolyze
To cause the digestion or dissolution of bacteria
Bradycardia
Slowness of the heartbeat, usually defined as a rate under 50 beats/min in adults.
Blood group
A system of antigens under the control of closely linked allelic loci on the surface of the erythrocytes or red blood cells.
Bile
The yellowish brown or green fluid secreted by the liver; it aids in emulsification of fats, increases peristalsis and retards putrefaction.
Bursa
A closed sac or envelope containing fluid, usually found in areas subject to friction.
Bronchus
The windpipe or trachea divides into two parts, each of which is called bronchus.
Cochlear implants
Cochlear implants are devices inserted under the skull that directly translate sound into electrical impulses in the auditory nerves, and can help people hear when conventional hearing aids are no help.
Cerebral death
A condition characterised by permanent loss of brain functions- manifested by absence of reponses to external stimuli and reflexes.
Curettage
A scraping, usually of the interior of a cavity or tract, for the removal of abnormal growth of tissue, or to obtain material for diagnosis.
Culdoscopy
Introduction of an endoscope through the vaginal wall for seeing the rectovaginal pouch.
Cryothalamectomy -Cryoglobulinemia
The presence of abnormal quantities of cryoglobulin in the blood.
Creatine
A product of protein metabolism found in the muscles of man.
Craniectomy
Making a cut in the portion of the skull without replacement of the bone.
Colposcopy
Examination of the vagina and cervix by means of an illuminated instrument.
Colic
Relating to colon (large intestines).2.pain in the abdomen particularly in young infants, due to overfeeding and swallowing of air
Chloasma
An infection caused by Coccidiodesimmitis which effects mainly the respiratory tract, lungs and the lymph nodes, but in rare cases it may effect bones, joints and the skin.
Coagulopathy
A disease affecting the coagulability of blood
Cholecystoduodenostomy
Making a direct channel or link between the gallbladder and the duodenum
Caesarean
An operation for delivering a child by cutting through the wall of the abdomen and the uterus.
Cephalosporin
A family of antibiotics, substances that destroys microorganisms
Callosity
A hard, thick area of skin usually occuring in parts of the body subject to repeated pressure or friction.
Capillary
A tiny vessel carrying blood or lymph.
Cancer
Any growth formed by an abnormal and uncontrolled division of body cells that involves surrounding tissues or may spread to other parts of the body.
Calorie
A unit of heat content or energy; often used to measure energy value of food.
Cartilage
A firm flexible connective tissue lining the joints, also forming the ear
Cirrhosis
A chronic disease of the liver marked by the breakdown of the liver cells and scarring.
Cell
The smallest unit of living structure. 2. a small closed or partly closed cavity.
Cataract
A condition in which the lens of the eye becomes opaque resulting in blurred vision.
Cardiomegaly
Enlargement of the heart.
Carotid
A large artery in the neck that supplies blood to the head and face and is often used to check the pulse in an emergency situation.
Craniotomy
Opening into the skull.
Cornea
The transparent circular part of the front of the eyeball.
Contaminant
An impurity or an infectious agent.
Colloid
Glue like substance 2.a translucent, yellowish, gumlike substance found in the cells and tissues.
Colitis
Inflammation or swelling of colon or large intestines
Chorionic villus biopsy
sampling of the chorionic villi of a growing embryo for genetic analysis.
Calciuria
The excretion of calcium in urine.
Congenital
Existing from birth
Carotene
One of several orange coloured plant pigments present in carrots, tomatoes etc., a source of vitamin A
Coma aberration
Improper image formation or seeing due to faulty entrance of light rays in the eyes.
Delirium tremens
A state of confusion due to over activity of the nervous system in case of alcohol withdrawal.
Diuretic
Promoting the excretion of urine.
Defibrillator
A machine to correct abnormal heart rhythms
Dystrophy
A gradual degeneration of the structure or function of an organ due to improper nutrition.
Dysrhythmia
Disordered or abnormal rhythm.
Dysplasia
Incomplete or abnormal development of a part, system or region of the body
Dysmenorrhoea
Difficult and painful menstruation.
Dysfunction
Disordered or abnormal functioning of an organ
Dyscrasia
A morbid general state applied to diseases affecting the blood cells
Drug
An agent used in the prevention ,diagnosis ,alleviation or treatment of a disease.
Dose
The amount of a drug given at one time given at one time
Digestive
An agent that promotes digestion- breaking up of complex molecules into simple ones for suitable absorption from the intestine.
Diabetic diet
A dietary adjustment for patients with diabetes mellitus to decrease the need for insulin or oral medication and control weight by adjusting caloric and carbohydrate intake.
Diet
The kind of food that a person habitually eats
Diabetes mellitus
Diabetes found in obese individuals over 40 years of age associated with reduced , normal or above-normal insulin production.
Diabetesinsipidus
A chronic excretion of large amounts of pale urine causing dehydration and excessive thirst caused by the deficiency of pituitary hormones.
Dextrocardia
A condition when the heart is on the right side of the chest rather than the left.
Diabetic amyotrophy
A form of muscle wasting in diabetes, usually seen in elderly patients, characterized by abrupt or gradual pain and weakness in the thighs.
Disease
An unhealthy condition of the body or the mind .
Dysarthria
A language disorder characterised by difficulty in speaking or forming words.
Dyspnoea
Difficulty in breathing.
Dyspepsia
Impaired stomach function characterised by burning, nausea and stomach pain.
Dysentery
A condition characterised by painful bowel movements, related to inflammation of the intestinal tract associated with diarrhoea,abdominal cramping and passing of mucous or blood with the stool
Drowning
Death caused by immersion in liquid due to lack of oxygen or cardiac arrest caused by sudden lowering of temperature.
Drain
To remove fluid from a cavity as it forms.
Dopamine
An intermediate in the synthesis of epinephrine.
Diuresis
The excretion of unusually large quantities of urine.
Diarrhoea
A condition of excessively frequent , loose bowel movements.
Diagnosis
A determination of the nature of a disease based on an analysis of signs and symptoms , medical history and laboratory tests.
Diabetes
A metabolic disorder characterised by excessive thirst and production of large amounts of urine.
Depression
A mental state characterised by feelings of sadness, despair and low self-esteem.
Euthanasia
A quiet, painless death better known as mercy killing. It is the intentional putting to death of a person with an incurable or painful disease as an act of mercy.
Emanotherapy
An obsolete treatment of various diseases
Eleopathy
A rare condition in which there is swelling of the joints
Electrodermal
Pertaining to electric properties of the skin
Electrocardiography
A method recording electrical currents traversing the heart muscle
Ectoanalgesia
Pain relief induced by the passage of an electric current
Ecchymosis
A purplish patch caused by extravasation of blood into the skin
Exostosis
A bony projection that grows in response to inflammation or repeated trauma.
Exenteration
Removal of the contents of a body cavity.
Epilepsy
A nervous disorder with convulsions and often loss of consciousness
Endocrine
Secreting into the blood stream ; the hormonal secretion of a ductless gland.
Encephalitis
An inflammation of the brain usually caused by a virus and associated with headache and drowsiness leading to coma.
Endoscopic biopsy
Biopsy obtained by instruments passed through an endoscope or obtained by a needle introduced under endoscopic guidance.
Epidemic
A widespread occurrence of a disease in a community at a particular time
Electrophobia
Morbid fear of electricity
Electroneurolysis
Destruction of nerve tissue by electricity
Electrocardiograph
An instrument for recording the electrical activity of the heart
Ecthyma
A pyrogenic infection of the skin
Ectopia
Displacement or malposition of any organ or part of the body
Echocardiography
The use of ultra-sound in the investigation of the heart and great vessels and diagnosis of cardiovascular lesions
ESR
Abbreviation for erythrocyte sedimentation rate; a type of blood test.
Erythrocyte
A mature red blood cell.
Episiotomy
A surgical cut made at the opening of the vagina during child birth to aid delivery.
Epinephrine
A harmone secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stress, nerve stimulation and hypoglycemia.
Enteral
Within or by way of the intestine or gastrointestinal tract.
Enema
A rectal injection for clearing out the bowel or administering drugs
Endarteritis
Inflammation of the inner lining of an artery.
Electromyography
The recording of electrical activity associated with muscular activity , often used in diagnosis of muscular disorders.
Electrocardiogram
A record of the electric currents generated by a person’s heart
EEG
Abbreviation for electroencephalogram ; electroencephalography.
ECG
Abbreviation for electrocardiogram
Excision biopsy
A surgical cut in the tissue for examination in such a manner that the entire lesion or affected area is removed.
Epidural anaesthesia
Numbness induced by injection of a drug in the lower back area usually during childbirth.
Emphysema
An enlargement of the air sacs of the lungs causing breathlessness ; a swelling caused by the presence of air in the connective tissues of the body.
Ear drum
The membrane of the middle ear.
Fracture
A breakage of a bone or cartilage.
Forceps
A surgical instrument used for grasping and holding.
Flexion
The condition of being bent, of a limb or a joint.
Fistula
An abnormal or surgically made passage between two hollow organs.
Filariasis
A disease caused by the presence of filarial worms in the lymph vessels.
Fasciectomy
Process for removing or cutting of fascia.
Ferrugination
Deposition of minerals like iron in the walls of small blood vessels.
Fatality
A condition, disease or disaster ending in death.
Furunculosis
A diseased condition in which boils appear.
Frostbite
Injury to body tissues due to freezing often resulting in death of tissue.
Fatigue
A state of tiredness of body and mind after a period of prolonged stress and work
Fasciculus
A bundle of muscle, nerve or connective tissue fibres
Fine needle biopsy
The aspiration and removal of tissue or suspensions of cells through a small needle for diagnosis.
Fasciculation
Spontaneous contraction of bundles of skeletal muscle fibres resulting in a localized twitching which can be seen under the skin but does not produce movement at a joint
Fenoprofen calcium
A pain killer used for treatment of mild to moderate pain as in osteoarthritis.
glandular fever
Glandular fever is an infectious disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus small amounts of which are present in the saliva
gastromyxorrhoea
excessive secretion of mucous in the stomach.
Gastrochronorrhoea
excessive continuous gastric secretion
Galactorrhoea
continued discharge of milk from the breasts between intervals of nursing or after the child has been weaned.
Gastroatonia
loss of tone in the stomach muscles.
Glucose
a simple sugar, which is an important energy source in living organisms that is obtained from the breakdown of carbohydrates.
Goitre
a swelling of the neck resulting from enlargement of the thyroid gland.
Glomerulus
a cluster of small organisms , tissues or blood vessels esp. of the capillaries of the kidney
Genetics
he study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.
Gastroenterology
the medical specialty concerned with the function and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, including stomach, intestines, and associated organs.
general anaesthesia
controlled loss of sensation in the entire body associated with loss of consciousness after using medicines
gestational age
the developmental age of the foetus counted from the day of the woman’s last menstrual period.
Geriatric
Pertaining to old age
Gastropagus
conjoined twins united at the abdomen.
Gastroileostomy
a surgical joining of stomach to ileum, the last part of the small intestine.
Gastroenterocolitis
inflammatory disease involving the stomach and intestines.
Glucagon
a hormone formed in the pancreas, which aids the breakdown of glycogen
Gestation
the process of carrying in the womb between conception and birth.
Gamete
a mature germ cell able to unite with another in sexual reproduction.
Glaucoma
an eye condition with increased pressure within the eye ball, causing gradual loss of sight
Hypoglycaemia
a low blood sugar level (below 80mg/100ml) often due to an excessive insulin dose
Haemoptysis
coughing up blood.
Hypertension
high blood pressure.
Hysteria
wild uncontrollable emotion or excitement.
Hypoxia
a deficiency of oxygen reaching the tissues.
Hypothermia
a body temperature significantly below 98.6 degree Fahrenheit.
Hyperactivity
a state of general restlessness or excessive movement.
Hydrocele
a collection of fluid in a sacculated cavity, commonly the scrotum
Homophobia
irrational fear of homosexual feelings, thoughts or persons.
HIV
Abbreviation for human immunodeficiency virus
Hepatitis
inflammation of the liver cells due to viral infections or toxic agents
Haemorrhoid
swollen veins at or near the anus, piles.
Haemoconcentration
decrease in the volume of plasma in relation to the number of red blood cells.
Hemiparesis
weakness affecting one side of the body.
Hyperglycaemia
a blood sugar level above normal (above 180mg/100ml) indicative of diabetes mellitus
Haematuria
blood in the urine.
haemorrhagic stroke
sudden bleeding into or around the brain.
Hypermetropia
the condition of the eye in which rays from a long distance focus behind the retina; also known as long sightedness.
Hysterectomy
removal of the uterus.
Hypotonia
reduced muscle tension in any part; relaxation of the arteries
Hypotension
reduced pressure of any kind commonly low blood pressure
Hyperplasia
an increase in the number of normal cells in a tissue or organ whereby the bulk of it may get increased.
Hypercholesterolaemia
presence of an abnormally large quantity of cholesterol in the blood.
Hyperalgesia
extreme sensitivity to painful stimuli.
Hormone
a chemical substance formed in one organ and carried in the blood to another organ or part to stimulate cells or tissues into action.
Hernia
protrusion of a part or structure through the tissues normally containing it.
habitual abortion
loss of three or more consequent pregnancies before 20 weeks of pregnancy
intertrigo
erythema or eczema that affects apposed skin surfaces
insomnia
inability to sleep.
Ischaemia
reduction in blood supply.
Interpalpebral
between the eyelids.
Intention
a process or operation in surgery.
Innidiation
multiplication of abnormal cells in a location to which they have been transported by means of blood stream.
Infestation
development on the body of a pathogenic agent.
Injury
a wound.
Ingestion
introduction of food and drink into the stomach.
Infiltration
the act of permeating or penetrating into a substance, cell or tissue; of gases, fluids or matter held in solution.
Infantilism
a state marked by slow development of mind and body.
Immunity
the status of being free from acquiring a given infectious disease.
Illumination
throwing light on the body or a part or into a cavity for diagnostic purposes.
incision biopsy
removal of only a part of lesion by incising or making a cut into it.
incubation period
the development of an infectious disease in a host from the time the infecting agent is introduced in the body until the first clinical features manifest themselves
inflammation
body’s reaction to injury, resulting in signs of redness, heat, swelling and tenderness
insulinaemia
abnormally high concentrations of insulin in the blood
insulin
a hormone produced by the pancreas regulating the amount of glucose in the blood. The lack of this hormone causes diabetes.
Intolerance
abnormal metabolism, excretion or other disposition of a given substance
Injection
introduction of a medicinal substance or nutrient material into the muscle or vein.
Influenza
a highly contagious virus infection causing fever and severe body ache.
Infection
invasion of the body with organisms that have the potential to cause disease
Immunodeficiency
a condition resulting from a defective immune mechanism
Ileum
the third and the last portion of the small intestine.
Janiceps
conjoined twins having their two heads fused together, with the faces looking in opposite directions.
Juxtaposition
a position side by side.
Juice
a digestive secretion.
Jejunoplasty
a corrective surgical procedure on the jejunum.
Jejunum
a portion of the small intestine.
Jaundice
a condition with yellowing of the eyes or the skin caused by a liver disease
Jugulate
kill by cutting the throat.
Junction
the point or surface of union of two parts, mainly bones or cartilages.
Joint
a place of union, usually more or less movable, between two or more bones.
korsakoff's syndrome
an alcohol related brain-injury syndrome, resulting in loss of memory.
Keratopathy
any corneal disease, damage, dysfunction or abnormality.
Keratitis
inflammation of the cornea
Kala-azar
tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite leishmaniadonovani
Kangarroo care
the use of skin- to – skin contact between the premature but stable infant and parent or caregiver
Kawasaki disease
a rare, acute inflammatory disorder of young children
Keratectomy
excision of a portion of the cornea
Keratin
an albuminoid substance which forms the principal constituent of all horny tissues
Keratomycosis
fungal infection of the cornea.
Kerni’s sign
the sign of meningitis
Ketonuria
the presence of ketones in urine
Kalaemia
the presence of potassium in the blood.
Kleptomania
an irresistible urge to steal when there is often know need and no particular desire for the objects.
Kinesitherapy
physical therapy involving motion and motion exercises.
Kyphosis
excessive outward curvature of the spine
Keratoplasty
any surgical modification of the cornea; the transparent layer in the eye
Keloid
fibrous tissue formed at the site of a scar or injury.
Kwashiorkor
condition of protein malnutrition occurring in children
Kyphoscoliosis
an abnormal curvature of the spine in which there forward and sideways displacement
Kineplasty
plastic amputation
Lymphocytes
a leukocyte of blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic tissue that play a role in both cellular and humoral immunity
Laryngitis
inflammation of the larynx, the organ of voice production.
Leukemogenic
pertaining to the causation, induction and development of leukaemia
Lactosuria
excretion of lactose in the urine.
Lymphoma
any malignant tumour of the lymph nodes.
Lumen
the space in the interior of a tubular structure, such as a blood vessel or the intestine.
Lanour
parturition or child birth
Labyrinthectomy
excisition of the labyrinth
Laceration
a wound with torn and ragged edges
Libido
conscious or unconscious sexual desire.
Leukaemia
a cancerous disease in which the bone marrow and the other blood forming organs produce increased numbers of abnormal leucocytes.
Ligation
the act of binding or annealing.
Leprosy
a contagious disease that affects the skin, mucous membranes and nerves causing disfigurement.
Laparotomy
a surgical incision into the abdominal cavity for diagnosis.
Lipoma
an abnormal growth of fat cells which may occur on various places such as skin or intestines
Lysis
the disintegration of a cell.
Ligament
short band of tough flexible fibrous connective tissue linking bones together
Leucocytosis
an abnormally large numbers of leucocytes or white blood cells in the blood as observed in infections
Laryngoscopy
inspection of the larynx by means of a lighted instrument called laryngoscope
Lacrimation
secretion of tears
Lactation
the process of milk segregation by the mammary gland
Lamina
a bony plate or layer
Leucopoiesis
the formation of weight blood cells
Macronutrient
an essential nutrient that has large minimal daily requirement
Macula
a spot on discoloured area of the skin
Malaria
a serious infectious disease, characterised by periodic chills, fever, sweating and splenomegaly
Manic
pertaining to mania
Meningitis
an inflammation of the coverings of the brain
mastitis
inflammation of the breast
Mantoux test
a skin test used in the diagnosis of tuberculosis
Malignant
cancerous.
Mycetoma
chronic infection involving the subcutaneous tissue, skin and bone
Mortuary
relating to death or burial, a place where dead bodies are kept before cremation.
Morbidity
a diseased state.
Midwife
a person trained to assist women in child birth.
Metrorrhagia
any irregular bleeding from the uterus between the periods.
Melioidosis
an infectious disease of rodents in India and Southeast Asia that is communicable to the human beings.
Medulloblastoma
a cancerous brain tumour consisting of small, poorly differentiated cells.
medicine, tropical
the branch of medicine concerned with diseases mainly of parasitic origin in areas having a tropical climate.
Mediastinum
a septum or a wall between two parts of an organ or a cavity, usually the chest.
Malabsorption
imperfect or inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestines.
Megacolon
a condition of extreme dilation of the colon or large intestine.
Munchausen syndrome
a condition in which the patient fabricates an illness to attract medical attention. Sufferers seek numerous medical consultations with different doctors.
multiple sclerosis
a disorder of the central nervous system resulting in abnormal hardening of the tissues in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include vision loss, speech disorders and bladder abnormalities.
Myopia
condition of the eye in which rays from a distance focus in front of the retina, also called short sightedness.
Myxoedema
reduced thyroid function, resulting in thickening of the skin, weight gain, mental dullness, loss of energy and sensitivity to cold
Migraine
a recurrent throbbing headache usually on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea and disturbance of vision.
Microalbuminuria
a slight increase in urinary albumin excretion.
Marasmus
starvation occuring in children due to prolonged deficiency of proteins and calories in the diet.
Mania
an abnormal love for or morbid impulse towards some specific object, place or action.
Macrophage
a cell found in many tissues in the body which plays an important role in the defence mechanism of the body.
Nebuliser
a device powered by an air pump, which converts a liquid to a fine spray for inhalation, often used by asthma sufferers
Nutrition
the process of providing or receiving nourishing substances.
Neurosyphilis
infection of the central nervous system by syphilis causing bacteria
Nephrotoxic
toxic to kidney cells
Nymphomania
an insatiable impulse to engage in sexual behaviour in a female.
Neurosis
a psychological disorder characterised by anxiety.
Neuropeptide
any of a variety of proteins found in neural tissue
neuropathy, diabetic
a term for any diabetes related disorder of the nervous system.
Neuron
the nerve cell, the functional unit of the nervous system
Neuromuscular
referring to the relationship between nerve and muscle.
Neurology
the branch of medical science concerned with the various nervous systems.
Neuroendocrine
a group of cells that release a hormone into the circulating blood in response to a neural stimulus.
Nephrostomy
diversion of urine involving placement of a tube within the kidneys in order to provide urinary drainage directly to an external urine collection appliance.
Nephritis
inflammation of the kidneys.
Nephrectomy
removal of a kidney
Neovascularisation
growth of blood vessels in tissues not containing them.
Neonate
the period from birth to the first 28 days of life
Narcolepsy
sleep disorder that usually appears in young adulthood, consisting of recurrent sleep periods during the day and often disrupted sleep at night.
Natriuresis
urinary excretion of sodium.
needle biopsy
any method in which the specimen is removed by scratching it by an appropriate needle that pierces the skin, or the external surface of the organ, and into the underlying tissue to be examined.
Neurochemistry
the science concerned with the chemical aspects of nervous system structure and function.
Necrobiosis
normal death of cells or tissues as a result of changes associated with development, aging or use.
Nystagmus
involuntary rhythmic movement of the eye balls.
Nocturia
purposeful urination at night, after waking from sleep.
Neuroblastoma
a highly cancerous tumour of undifferentiated small cells.
Osteochondroma
a benign tumor of the bone
Osteophytes
Osteophytes are extra bone the body produces and deposits in an arthritic joint to stop its movement.
Odontotomy
cutting into the crown of a tooth.
Ovulation
release of an ovum from the ovary.
Ovary
one of the paired female reproductive glands containing the ovum or germ cells
Otoscopy
examination of the ear, especially of the ear drum.
Osteoporosis
condition of brittle and fragile bones caused by loss of bony tissue, especially as a result of hormonal changes or deficiency of calcium and vitamin D.
Osteopathy
any disease of the bone.
Osteoarthritis
degenerative disease of joint cartilage especially in the elderly.
Ophthalmoplegia
paralysis of one or more of the eye muscles.
Omphalitis
inflammation of the umbilicus
Oncology
the scientific and medical study of tumour
Operation
a surgical procedure in which instruments or hands are used by the operator upon a part or organ of the body.
Ophthalmology
the study of eye and its disease
Optometry
assessing and measuring visual acuity for the fitting of glasses or contact lenses to correct visual defects
Osteoperiostitis
inflammation of bone and periosteum
Ovarian
relating to an ovary
Ovary
one of a pair of glandular organs in the female pelvics
Oviduct
a uterine tube
Oxytocic
any drug that stimulates uterine contractions and may be used to hasten delivery.
Pessaries
a device that is placed intravaginally to support the uterus or other pelvic structures
Psychosomatic
bodily symptoms associated with a psychological disorder
Pediculosis
infestation of the skin by the louse
pyloric stenosis
narrowing of the opening from the stomach to the duodenum especially by muscular thickening since birth or scarring resulting from a peptic ulcer
pyrosis
burning sensation in the lower part of the chest, combined with the return of gastric acid to the mouth
pylorus
the opening from the stomach into the duodenum.
Pyelography
radiologic study of the kidney, ureters and the urinary bladder using a contrast agent
Procedure
act or conduct of diagnosis, treatment.
Pressure
a stress or force acting in any direction against resistance.
Placenta
flattened circular organ in the uterus of pregnant women, nourishing and maintaining the foetus through the umbilical cord and expelled after birth.
Periosteum
a membrane enveloping the bones where no cartilage is present.
Pericranium
the membrane enveloping the skull.
Pathognomonic
characteristic or indicative of a disease.
Periodontist
a person specializing in the branch of dentistry concerned with the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth.
Phlebitis
nflammation of a vein.
palliative care
care aimed at minimising pain and suffering when cure is not possible
pyuria
presence of pus in the urine.
Pyrogen
a fever-inducing agent produced by bacteria, moulds and viruses.
Pulse
a rhythmical throbbing of the arteries as blood is propelled through them.
Premedication
administration of drugs prior to anaesthesia to reduce apprehension and produce sedation.
Polyneuropathy
a disease process involving a number of peripheral nerves.
Poison
any substance either taken internally or applied externally , that is injurious to health or dangerous to life.
Pneumonia
a bacterial inflammation of one or both lungs causing the air sacs to fill with pus and become solid.
Plague
any disease of wide prevalence or of excessive mortality.
Phonocardiograph
an instrument utilizing microphones, amplifiers and filters for graphically recording the heart sounds
Peritoneum
the double membrane lining the cavity of the abdomen.
Pericardiocentesis
needle or catheter drainage of fluid from the pericardium, the membrane covering the heart
Penotomy
cutting of the penis.
Pelvis
a basin-shaped cavity at the lower end of the trunk.
Pathology
the medical science concerned with all aspects of a disease.
Pathogenesis
the pathologic or biochemical mechanism resulting in the development of a disease.
Pasteurisation
the process of partial sterilisation by heating.
Pancreas
a gland behind the stomach secreting insulin into the blood and producing a digestive fluid
pernicious anaemia
an anaemic condition usually occuring later in life due to decreased absorption of Vitamin B12 by the body. It is characterized by erosion of the stomach lining, weakness, faintness, diarrhoea and lack of appetite
psychodrama
a form of psychotherapy in which personality structure and emotional conflicts are explored through dramatization.
Psychology
the science concerned with the behaviour of humans and related physical and mental processes.
Progesterone
a steroid hormone released by the ovary which stimulates the preparation of the uterus for pregnancy
Prostatectomy
removal of the prostate
Plasma
the fluid portion of the blood in which corpuscles are suspended
Platelet
a disc- shaped structure present in the blood and concerned in the process of clotting
Q fever
An common illness causing symptoms similar to influenza
Quackery
a false claim to have the ability to diagnosis and treat disease
Quadrantectomy
a surgical procedure that involves the removal of tissue in one quadrant of a breast in order to treat breast cancer.
Quadriceps muscle
a muscle that four distinct parts that is located at the front of the thigh and straightens the knee.
Quadriparesis
weakness of the muscles in all four limbs and the trunk
Quadriplegia
paralysis of all four limbs and the trunk
Quickening
the fetal movements felt by pregnant women, usually after about 18 week’s gestation
Quinolone drugs
a group of antibiotic drugs, often called antibacterial, that are used to treat bacterial infections.
Radiation
emission of rays from a radioactive substance.
Rabies
a contagious and fatal viral disease especially of dogs, transmissible through the saliva to humans and causing convulsions and death.
Rumination
a disorder of infancy characterized by repeated regurgitation of food, with weight loss or failure to thrive, developing after a period of normal functioning.
Rouleaux
an aggregate of red blood cells stacked like a pile of coins.
Root
the primary or beginning portion of any part, as of a nerve at its origin from the brain stem or the spinal cord.
Rheumatism
any disease marked by inflammation and pain in the joints, muscles or fibrous tissues, esp. rheumatoid arthritis.
Rhabdomyolysis
a disease involving destruction of the skeletal muscles.
Retinopathy
degenerative disease of the retina as in diabetes.
Retina
a layer at the back of the eyeball sensitive to light and triggering nerve impulses via the optic nerve to the brain where the visual image is formed.
Respiration
the act of breathing; the process involving the release of energy and carbon dioxide from the oxidation of complex organic substances.
Resection
a procedure for removal of parts of an organ.
Reproduction
the total process by which organisms produce offspring.
Relaxation
loosening, lessening of tension in a muscle.
Receptor
a structural protein molecule on the cell surface or within that binds it to a specific factor, such as a drug, hormone or other chemical agent.
Ramus
one of the primary divisions of a nerve or blood vessel
Radius
the outer and shorter of the two bones of the forearm
Radiography
examination of any part of the body for diagnostic purposes by means of x-rays and recording the findings on a photographic film.
Radiocinematography
taking a picture of the movements of organs or other structures by x-ray examination
Retinoblastoma
a malignant tumour of the retinal cells.
Radiology
the science of radiation using X ray and other allied imaging techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of disease
Radiotherapy
a method of treating disease and eradicating tumour cells by aiming to deliver a therapeutic dose of radiation while preserving normal tissue function and structure
Rhinoplasty
a plastic operation on the nose, repairing a part of or forming an entirely new nose.
sjogren's syndrome
an autoimmune disorder with dry mouth and eyes
sinus tachycardia
a rapid heart rate due to acceleration of the sinus rate.
Seizure
a sudden attack of a nervous disorder with convulsions and often loss of consciousness.
Suture
the joining of the edges of a wound or incision by stitching.
Stroke
any acute clinical event, related to impairment of circulation to the brain that lasts more than 24 hours.
Stricturoplasty
surgical procedure for widening a segment of intestine that involves incision and closing in opposite directions.
Stress
a pressure or tension exerted on an object.
Stethoscope
an instrument used for listening to the sounds of the heart, lungs and intestines.
Steroid
a group of organic compounds with a characteristic structure of four rings of carbon atoms, such as some hormones
Sternum
the breastbone.
Sterilization
the act or process by which an individual is rendered incapable of fertilization or reproduction as in vasectomy.
Stenosis
narrowing of any tubular structure in the body like intestine, artery or ureter.
Splenectomy
removal of the spleen.
Schizophrenia
a mental disease marked by a breakdown in the relation between thoughts, feelings and actions, frequently accompanied by delusions and retreat from social life.
Saliva
digestive liquid secreted into the mouth by glands to provide moisture and facilitate chewing and swallowing.
Symptom
a change in the physical or mental condition of a person, regarded as evidence of a disease.
Syndrome
the aggregate pattern of symptoms and signs associated with a disease process.
Spirometer
any device used for measuring flows and volumes inhaled and exhaled by the lungs, thus assessing lung function
Scapula
the large flat triangular bone forming the shoulder blade
Serology
the scientific study of serum
SGA
small for gestational age
SGOT
serum glutamic oxalacetic transaminase, an enzyme excreted by damaged heart muscle.
SGPT
serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, an enzyme excreted by parenchymal cell of the liver
Sinusitis
inflammation of the lining of a sinus, especially applied of the bony cavityof the face.
Theinism
chronic poisoning resulting from tea-drinking, characterized by palpitation, nervousness and headache.
Typhoid
an infectious bacterial disease with high fever and severe intestinal irritation.
Tumourigenesis
production of a new growth.
Tumour
swelling from an abnormal growth of tissue.
Trauma
an injury, physical or mental.
Transplant
to transfer from one part to another.
Tracheostomy
an operation to make an opening into the trachea or the wind pipe.
Trachoma
a contagious disease of the eye with inflammed small nodules on the inner surface of the lids.
Torticollis
a contraction or shortening of the muscles of the neck.
Thyroid
a large ductless gland found in the neck, secreting a hormone which regulates growth and development.
Thymus
an organ situated in the neck, producing lymphocytes for immune response.
Thrombus
a clot that may be attached to the vessel or heart wall without obstructing the lumen
Thalassaemia
an inherited disorder of haemoglobin metabolism in which there is impaired production of one or more polypeptide chains of globin, resulting in severe anaemia.
Tetany
a clinical syndrome characterized by muscle twitches, cramps, spasms and seizures.
Telelectrocardiogram
an electrocardiogram recorded at a distance from the subject being tested; eg. the electrocardiogram obtained through telephone.
Tachycardia
rapid beating of the heart, over 90beats/min. in adults.
Thrombocytopenia
an increase in the number of platelets in the blood
Traumatology
The branch of surgery that deals with injured patients, usually on an emergency basis. Patients who have suffered significant physical trauma, as from a car accident, may be cared for in a traumatology unit.
Thrombocytopaenia
a condition in which there is an abnormally reduced number of platelets in the blood.
Tracheobronchitis
inflammation of the lining of the trachea and bronchi, both parts of the air passages to the lungs.
throat, sore
a condition characterized by pain or discomfort on swallowing; it may be due to inflammation of the pharynx or larynx.
Taxonomy
a systematic classification of living things or organisms.
Urticarial
an eruption of itching due to allergy to foods or drugs, physical agents or psychic stimuli.
Urethra
the canal leading from the bladder, discharging the urine externally.
ulcer, decubitus
a chronic ulcer that appears on pressure areas of skin, in patients confined to bed or otherwise immobilized.
Urine
the fluid containing dissolved waste substances excreted by the kidney.
Ureter
the duct by which urine passes from the kidney to the urinary bladder.
Ultrasonography
an investigation to locate and measure deep structures inthe body by measuring the reflection or transmission of high frequency or ultrasonic waves.
ulcerative colitis
a chronic disease characterized by ulcers in the large intestine, presenting with loose stools, blood and mucous.
uric acid
a crystalline acid forming a constituent of urine.
Urea
a soluble nitrogenous waste compound excreted by the kidney in the urine.
UTI
abbreviation for urinary tract infection.
Urethritis
inflammation of the urethra.
Urachus
remnant stalk of the embryo connecting the urinary bladder to the umbilicus.
Ulcer
an open sore on the external or internal surface of the body, often forming pus.
Uterus
a triangular, hollow, muscular organ situated in the pelvic cavity between the bladder and the rectum
Urology
the study of disease of the urinary tract
Urethritis
inflammation of the
Vulva
the external genitalia of the female.
volvulus
a twisting of the intestine causing obstruction.
vitiligo
the appearance on otherwise normal skin of white patches of varied sizes, often symmetrically distributed and bordered by areas of increased pigmentation.
Vitamin
one of a group of organic substances, present in minute amounts in natural foodstuffs, that are essential to normal metabolism.
Virus
a microscopic organism multiplying in living cells and causing diseases.
viability
capability of living.
Vaginitis
inflammation of the vagina caused by microorganism
vertebra
each segment of the backbone.
Ventricle
a cavity, as of the brain or heart.
ventilator
respirator, a machine to assist or artificially take over breathing.
vein
a blood vessel carrying blood towards the heart.
vector
a carrier of disease.
VDRL
abbreviation for Venereal Disease Research Laboratories.
Vasoconstriction
narrowing of the blood vessels.
vasectomy
the surgical removal of part of each vas deferens as a means of permanent sterilization.
valve, tricuspid
the valve closing the opening between the right auricle and ventricle of the heart.
valve, pulmonary
the valve at the entrance to the pulmonary trunk from the right ventricle.
valve, mitral
the valve closing the opening between the auricle and ventricle of the left side of the heart.
vaginosis
disease of the vagina.
vagina
the birth canal in the female
vaccine, measles, mumps and rubella
a triple combination of live measles, mumps and rubella viruses in a suspension, used for immunization against the respective diseases.
vaccine
a preparation used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity from diseases.
wheeze
to breathe with difficulty, with a whistling sound.
WBC
abbreviation for white blood cell.
Wound
caused by injury or operation
Whipple’s disease
an extremely rare disorder also called intestinal lipodystrophy, that can affected many organs, the heart, lungs, eyes and brain can also be affected
Windpipe
Another name of trachea
Weil’s disease
another name for leptospirosis
Wilm’s tumour
A type of kidney cancer also called nephroblastoma
Wrist
the joint between the hand and the arm that allow the hands to be bentforward and backward relative to the arm and also to be moved side to side.
Worm infestation
Several types of worm, or their larva, existing as parasites of human
xerostomia
dryness of the mouth due to decreased secretion of saliva.
Xenophonia
a speech defect marked by an alteration in accent.
X ary
a form of electronic radiation short wavelength and high energy. X ray are widely used in medicine for diagnosis and treatment.
Xylometazoline
a decongestant drug used in the form of a spray or drops to relieve nasal congestion caused by a common cold
excessive dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea resulting in loss of lustre.
xeromenia
a term for the occurrence of usual symptoms of the menstrual period without any show of blood
yellow fever
An infectious disease of short duration and variable severity that is caused by a virus transmitted by mosquitos
Yttrium
a very rare metal that, in its radioactive form, is sometimes used in cancer therapy and so treat joint affected by arthritis
Zygomatic arch
The arch of bone, commonly known as cheek bone, located in either side of skull just below the eye socket
Zinc
A trace element that is essentials for normal growth, the development of reproductive organs, normal functioning of the prostate gland, healing of wounds and the manufacture of the proteins and nucleic acids in the body.
Zoledronic acid
a bisphosphonate drug used to treat various bone disorder.
Zolpidem
a drug used in the short term treatment of Insomnia