Encyclopedia of cancer

AARP - an association of people to promote the welfare of senior citizens
ABA - a fabric woven from goat hair and camel hair; a loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth; worn by Arabs
ACTH - a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex
ADP - data processing by a computer; an ester of adenosine that is converted to ATP for energy storage
AFP - an abnormally large amount of this fetoprotein in the fetus can signal an abnormality of the neural tube (as spina bifida or anencephaly)
AIDS - a serious (often fatal) disease of the immune system transmitted through blood products especially by sexual contact or contaminated needles
ALA - a wing of an insect; a flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism
APC - a drug combination found in some over-the-counter headache remedies (aspirin and phenacetin and caffeine); (military) an armored vehicle (usually equipped with treads) that is used to transport infantry
ASCUS - saclike structure in which ascospores are formed through sexual reproduction of ascomycetes
AZT - an antiviral drug (trade name Retrovir) used in the treatment of AIDS; adverse side effects include liver damage and suppression of the bone marrow
Ablation - surgical removal of a body part or tissue; the erosive process that reduces the size of glaciers
Abortion - termination of pregnancy; failure of a plan
Abscess - symptom consisting of a localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue
Acetaminophen - an analgesic for mild pain; also used as an antipyretic; (Datril, Tylenol, Panadol, Phenaphen, Tempra, and Anacin III are trademarks of brands of acetaminophen tablets)
Acetylcholine - a neurotransmitter that is a derivative of choline; released at the ends of nerve fibers in the somatic and parasympathetic nervous systems
Acromegaly - enlargement of bones of hands and feet and face; often accompanied by headache and muscle pain and emotional disturbances; caused by overproduction of growth hormone by the anterior pituitary gland (due to a tumor)
Actinic keratosis - an overgrowth of skin layers resulting from extended exposure to the sun
Activated charcoal - powdered or granular carbon used for purifying by adsorption; given orally (as a slurry) it is an antidote for some kinds of poisons
Acupressure - treatment of symptoms by applying pressure with the fingers to specific pressure points on the body
Acupuncture - treatment of pain or disease by inserting the tips of needles at specific points on the skin
Acute leukemia - rapidly progressing leukemia
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia - acute leukemia characterized by proliferation of immature lymphoblast-like cells in bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, and blood; most common in children
Acute lymphocytic leukemia - acute leukemia characterized by proliferation of immature lymphoblast-like cells in bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, and blood; most common in children
Acute myelocytic leukemia - acute leukemia characterized by proliferation of granular leukocytes; most common in adolescents and young adults
Acute - having or experiencing a rapid onset and short but severe course; of critical importance and consequence; extremely sharp or intense; having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions; of an angle; less than 90 degrees; ending in a sharp point; a mark (') placed above a vowel to indicate pronunciation
Acyclovir - an oral antiviral drug (trade name Zovirax) used to treat genital herpes; does not cure the disease but relieves the symptoms
Adenocarcinoma - malignant tumor originating in glandular epithelium
Adenoma - a benign epithelial tumor of glandular origin
Adenosis - a disorder of the glands of the body
Adrenal cortex - the cortex of the adrenal gland; secretes corticosterone and sex hormones
Adrenal medulla - the medulla of the adrenal gland; secretes epinephrine
Adrenaline - a catecholamine secreted by the adrenal medulla in response to stress (trade name Adrenalin); stimulates autonomic nerve action
Adrenocorticotropic hormone - a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex
Adrenocorticotropic - stimulating or acting on the adrenal cortex
Advil - a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (trade names Advil and Motrin and Nuprin) used to relieve the pain of arthritis and as an analgesic and antipyretic
Aflatoxin - a potent carcinogen from the fungus Aspergillus; can be produced and stored for use as a bioweapon
Africa - the second largest continent; located south of Europe and bordered to the west by the South Atlantic and to the east by the Indian Ocean
African - of or relating to the nations of Africa or their peoples; a native or inhabitant of Africa
Agency - a business that serves other businesses; an administrative unit of government; the state of being in action or exerting power; how a result is obtained or an end is achieved; the state of serving as an official and authorized delegate or agent
Agranulocytosis - an acute blood disorder (often caused by radiation or drug therapy) characterized by severe reduction in granulocytes
Air pollution - pollution of the atmosphere
Albumin - a simple water-soluble protein found in many animal tissues and liquids
Alcoholics Anonymous - an international organization that provides a support group for persons trying to overcome alcoholism
Aldomet - antihypertensive drug (trade name Aldomet) used in the treatment of high blood pressure
Aldosterone - a corticosteroid hormone that is secreted by the cortex of the adrenal gland; regulates salt (sodium and potassium) and water balance
Aldosteronism - a condition caused by overproduction of aldosterone
Alendronate - a tablet (trade name Fosamax) prescribed to prevent or treat osteoporosis in women after menopause
Aleve - a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (trademarks Aleve and Anaprox and Aflaxen)
Alga - primitive chlorophyll-containing mainly aquatic eukaryotic organisms lacking true stems and roots and leaves
Alkeran - antineoplastic drug (trade name Alkeran) used to treat multiple myeloma and some other malignancies
Allergic - having an allergy or peculiar or excessive susceptibility (especially to a specific factor); characterized by or caused by allergy
Allergy - hypersensitivity reaction to a particular allergen; symptoms can vary greatly in intensity
Allium sativum - bulbous herb of southern Europe widely naturalized; bulb breaks up into separate strong-flavored cloves
Aloe vera - very short-stemmed plant with thick leaves with soothing mucilaginous juice; leaves develop spiny margins with maturity; native to Mediterranean region; grown widely in tropics and as houseplants
Alopecia - loss of hair (especially on the head) or loss of wool or feathers; in humans it can result from heredity or hormonal imbalance or certain diseases or drugs and treatments (chemotherapy for cancer)
Alpha-interferon - a form of interferon that is produced endogenously and commercially for its pharmacological effects (including regulation of the immune system and antiviral and antineoplastic effects)
Alpha - early testing stage of a software or hardware product; first in order of importance; the 1st letter of the Greek alphabet; the beginning of a series or sequence
Alprazolam - an antianxiety agent (trade name Xanax) of the benzodiazepine class
Alternative Medicine - the practice of medicine without the use of drugs; may involve herbal medicines or self-awareness or biofeedback or acupuncture
Alternative - necessitating a choice between mutually exclusive possibilities; pertaining to unconventional choices; allowing a choice; one of a number of things from which only one can be chosen
Aluminum hydroxide - white crystalline compound that occurs naturally as the mineral gibbsite
Aluminum - a silvery ductile metallic element found primarily in bauxite
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma - form of rhabdomyosarcoma occuring mainly in adolescents and young adults
Amen - a primeval Egyptian personification of air and breath; worshipped especially at Thebes
American mistletoe - small herb with scalelike leaves on reddish-brown stems and berrylike fruits; parasitic on spruce and larch trees; the traditional mistletoe of Christmas in America: grows on deciduous trees and can severely weaken the host plant
Amethopterin - toxic antimetabolite that limits cellular reproduction by acting as an antagonist to folic acid; used to treat certain cancers and psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis
Amiodarone - an antiarrhythmic drug (trade name Cordarone) that has potentially fatal side effects and is used to control serious heart rhythm problems only when safer agents have been ineffective
Amitriptyline - a tricyclic antidepressant drug (trade name Elavil) with serious side effects; interacts with many other medications
Amniocentesis - (pregnancy) extraction by centesis of amniotic fluid from a pregnant woman (after the 15th week of pregnancy) to aid in the diagnosis of fetal abnormalities
Amoxicillin - an antibiotic; a semisynthetic oral penicillin (trade names Amoxil and Larotid and Polymox and Trimox and Augmentin) used to treat bacterial infections
Ampicillin - semisynthetic penicillin (trade names Principen and Polycillin and SK-Ampicillin)
Amplification - (electronics) the act of increasing voltage or power or current; addition of extra material or illustration or clarifying detail; the amount of increase in signal power or voltage or current expressed as the ratio of output to input
Amputation - a surgical removal of all or part of a limb; a condition of disability resulting from the loss of one or more limbs
Amygdalin - a bitter cyanogenic glucoside extracted from the seeds of apricots and plums and bitter almonds
Amyloidosis - a disorder characterized by deposit of amyloid in organs or tissues; often secondary to chronic rheumatoid arthritis or tuberculosis or multiple myeloma
Analgesia - absence of the sense of pain without loss of consciousness
Anaphylaxis - hypersensitivity reaction to the ingestion or injection of a substance (a protein or drug) resulting from prior contact with a substance
Anaplastic - of or relating to anaplasia
Anastomosis - a natural or surgical joining of parts or branches of tubular structures so as to make or become continuous
Anesthesia - loss of bodily sensation with or without loss of consciousness
Angina - any disease of the throat or fauces marked by spasmodic attacks of intense suffocative pain; a heart condition marked by paroxysms of chest pain due to reduced oxygen to the heart
Angiogenesis - the formation of new blood vessels
Angiography - roentgenographic examination of blood vessels after injection of a radiopaque contrast medium; produces an angiogram
Angiosarcoma - a rare malignant neoplasm arising from vascular tissue; usually occurs in the breast and skin and is believed to originate from the endothelial cells of blood vessels
Angiotensin converting enzyme - proteolytic enzyme that converts angiotensin I into angiotensin II
Anhidrosis - failure of the sweat glands
Anorexia nervosa - (psychiatry) a psychological disorder characterized by somatic delusions that you are too fat despite being emaciated
Anorexia - a prolonged disorder of eating due to loss of appetite
Antabuse - a drug (trade name Antabuse) used in the treatment of alcoholism; causes nausea and vomiting if alcohol is ingested
Antifungal - capable of destroying fungi; any agent that destroys or prevents the growth of fungi
Antivert - an antihistamine (trade name Antivert) used to treat or prevent motion sickness
Antrum - a natural cavity or hollow in a bone
Anxiety - a vague unpleasant emotion that is experienced in anticipation of some (usually ill-defined) misfortune; a relatively permanent state of anxiety occurring in a variety of mental disorders
Apheresis - a procedure in which blood is drawn and separated into its components by dialysis; some are retained and the rest are returned to the donor by transfusion; (linguistics) omission at the beginning of a word as in `coon' for `raccoon' or `till' for `until'
Aplasia - failure of some tissue or organ to develop
Aplastic anemia - anemia characterized by pancytopenia resulting from failure of the bone marrow; can be caused by neoplasm or by toxic exposure
Apoplexy - a sudden loss of consciousness resulting when the rupture or occlusion of a blood vessel leads to oxygen lack in the brain
Apoptosis - a type of cell death in which the cell uses specialized cellular machinery to kill itself; a cell suicide mechanism that enables metazoans to control cell number and eliminate cells that threaten the animal's survival
Appendectomy - surgical removal of the vermiform appendix
Arachnoid - relating to or resembling a member of the class Arachnida; the middle of the 3 meninges; air-breathing arthropods characterized by simple eyes and four pairs of legs
Arctium lappa - burdock having heart-shaped leaves found in open woodland, hedgerows and rough grassland of Europe (except extreme N) and Asia Minor; sometimes cultivated for medicinal and culinary use
Arginine - a bitter tasting amino acid found in proteins and necessary for nutrition; its absence from the diet leads to a reduced production of spermatozoa
Arrhythmia - an abnormal rate of muscle contractions in the heart
Arsenic trioxide - a white powdered poisonous trioxide of arsenic; used in manufacturing glass and as a pesticide (rat poison) and weed killer
Arteriography - roentgenographic examination of arteries
Arthritis - inflammation of a joint or joints
Artificial intelligence - the branch of computer science that deal with writing computer programs that can solve problems creatively
Asbestos - a fibrous amphibole; used for making fireproof articles; inhaling fibers can cause asbestosis or lung cancer
Ascites - accumulation of serous fluid in peritoneal cavity
Ascorbic acid - a vitamin found in fresh fruits (especially citrus fruits) and vegetables; prevents scurvy
Ataxia - inability to coordinate voluntary muscle movements; unsteady movements and staggering gait
Athletic training - the course of practice and exercise and diet undertaken by an athlete
Ativan - tranquilizer (trade name Ativan) used to treat anxiety and tension and insomnia
Attention deficit disorder - a condition (mostly in boys) characterized by behavioral and learning disorders
Autoimmune disease - any of a large group of diseases characterized by abnormal functioning of the immune system that causes your immune system to produce antibodies against your own tissues
Autonomic nervous system - the part of the nervous system of vertebrates that controls involuntary actions of the smooth muscles and heart and glands
Azactam - an antibiotic (trade name Azactam) used against severe infections; has minimal side effects
Azathioprine - an immunosuppressive drug (trade name Imuran) used to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ
Azotemia - accumulation in the blood of nitrogenous waste products (urea) that are usually excreted in the urine
Aztreonam - an antibiotic (trade name Azactam) used against severe infections; has minimal side effects
B cell - a lymphocyte derived from bone marrow that provides humoral immunity; it recognizes free antigen molecules in solution and matures into plasma cells that secrete immunoglobulin (antibodies) that inactivate the antigens
BB - a small pellet fired from an air rifle or BB gun
BPH - enlarged prostate; appears to be part of the natural aging process
BUN - small rounded bread either plain or sweet
Bacteremia - transient presence of bacteria (or other microorganisms) in the blood
Bacteria - (microbiology) single-celled or noncellular spherical or spiral or rod-shaped organisms lacking chlorophyll that reproduce by fission; important as pathogens and for biochemical properties; taxonomy is difficult; often considered plants
Baking soda - a white soluble compound (NaHCO3) used in effervescent drinks and in baking powders and as an antacid
Baldness - the condition of having no hair on the top of the head
Balkan - of or denoting or relating to the Balkan countries or their inhabitants or the Balkan peninsula or the Balkan Mountains; an inhabitant of the Balkan Peninsula
Barium enema - contrast medium is injected into the rectum and x-rays are taken to search for lesions
Barium sulfate - a white insoluble radiopaque powder used as a pigment
Belladonna - an alkaloidal extract or tincture of the poisonous belladonna plant that is used medicinally; perennial Eurasian herb with reddish bell-shaped flowers and shining black berries; extensively grown in United States; roots and leaves yield atropine
Benign prostatic hyperplasia - enlarged prostate; appears to be part of the natural aging process
Benign - pleasant and beneficial in nature or influence; kindness of disposition or manner; not dangerous to health; not recurrent or progressive (especially of a tumor)
Benzene - a colorless liquid hydrocarbon; highly inflammable; carcinogenic; the simplest of the aromatic compounds
Beta-carotene - an isomer of carotene that is found in dark green and dark yellow fruits and vegetables
Beta - preliminary or testing stage of a software or hardware product; second in order of importance; the 2nd letter of the Greek alphabet; beets
Bile - a digestive juice secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder; aids in the digestion of fats
Bilirubin - an orange-yellow pigment in the bile that forms as a product of hemoglobin; excess amounts in the blood produce the yellow appearance observed in jaundice
Bill of Rights - a statement of fundamental rights and privileges (especially the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution)
Biofeedback - a training program in which a person is given information about physiological processes (heart rate or blood pressure) that is not normally available with the goal of gaining conscious control of them
Biopsy - examination of tissues or liquids from the living body to determine the existence or cause of a disease
Bipolar disorder - a mental disorder characterized by episodes of mania and depression
Birth control - limiting the number of children born
Birth - the event of being born; the time when something begins (especially life); the process of giving birth; the kinship relation of an offspring to the parents; verb cause_to_be_born
Black cherry - large North American wild cherry with round black sour edible fruit; any of several fruits of cultivated cherry trees that have sweet flesh
Black tea - fermented tea leaves
Bleeding - flow of blood from a ruptured blood vessels
Blindness - the state of being blind or lacking sight
Blood count - the act of estimating the number of red and white corpuscles in a blood sample; the number of red and white corpuscles in a blood sample
Blood pressure - the pressure of the circulating blood against the walls of the blood vessels; results from the systole of the left ventricle of the heart; sometimes measured for a quick evaluation of a person's health
Blood transfusion - the introduction of blood or blood plasma into a vein or artery
Body temperature - temperature of the body; normally 98.6 F or 37 C in humans; usually measured to obtain a quick evaluation of a person's health
Body weight - the weight of a person's body
Bodywork - the work of making or repairing vehicle bodies; the exterior body of a motor vehicle
Bone marrow - the fatty network of connective tissue that fills the cavities of bones; very tender and very nutritious tissue from marrowbones
Boron - a trivalent metalloid element; occurs both in a hard black crystal and in the form of a yellow or brown powder
Braces - an appliance that corrects dental irregularities
Brain-stem - the part of the brain continuous with the spinal cord and comprising the medulla oblongata and pons and midbrain and parts of the hypothalamus
Brainstem - the part of the brain continuous with the spinal cord and comprising the medulla oblongata and pons and midbrain and parts of the hypothalamus
Broccoli - branched green undeveloped flower heads; plant with dense clusters of tight green flower buds
Bruising - brutally forceful and compelling; causing mental or emotional injury
BuSpar - a drug (trade name BuSpar) designed specifically for anxiety
Burdock - any of several erect biennial herbs of temperate Eurasia having stout taproots and producing burs
Burns - celebrated Scottish poet (1759-1796); United States comedian and film actor (1896-1996)
Buspirone - a drug (trade name BuSpar) designed specifically for anxiety
CALLA - water arum; South African plant widely cultivated for its showy pure white spathe and yellow spadix
CBC - counting the number of white and red blood cells and the number of platelets in 1 cubic millimeter of blood
CDC - a federal agency in the Department of Health and Human Services; located in Atlanta; investigates and diagnoses and tries to control or prevent diseases (especially new and unusual diseases)
CI - a unit of radioactivity equal to the amount of a radioactive isotope that decays at the rate of 37,000,000,000 disintegrations per second
CMV - any of a group of herpes viruses that enlarge epithelial cells and can cause birth defects; can affect humans with impaired immunological systems
COBRA - venomous Asiatic and African elapid snakes that can expand the skin of the neck into a hood
COX - the helmsman of a ship's boat or a racing crew; either of two related enzymes that control the production of prostaglandins and are blocked by aspirin; verb act as the coxswain, in a boat race
Cadmium - a soft bluish-white ductile malleable toxic bivalent metallic element; occurs in association with zinc ores
Caffeine - a bitter alkaloid found in coffee and tea that is responsible for their stimulating effects
Calamine lotion - a lotion consisting of a liquid preparation containing calamine; used to treat itching or mild skin irritations
Calcium - a white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust; an important component of most plants and animals
Calendula - any of numerous chiefly annual herbs of the genus Calendula widely cultivated for their yellow or orange flowers; often used for medicinal and culinary purposes
Camphor - a resin obtained from the camphor tree; used in making celluloid and liniment
Campion - any plant of the genus Silene
Candidiasis - an infection caused by fungi of the genus Monilia or Candida (especially Candida albicans)
Cannabis sativa - a strong-smelling plant from whose dried leaves a number of euphoriant and hallucinogenic drugs are prepared
Captopril - a drug (trade name Capoten) that blocks the formation of angiotensin in the kidneys resulting in vasodilation; used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure
Carbon tetrachloride - a colorless nonflammable liquid used as a solvent for fats and oils; because of its toxicity its use as a cleaning fluid or fire extinguisher has declined
Carcinosarcoma - a malignant neoplasm composed of carcinoma and sarcoma extensively intermixed
Cardiac tamponade - mechanical compression of the heart resulting from large amounts of fluid collecting in the pericardial space and limiting the heart's normal range of motion
Cardiovascular disease - a disease of the heart or blood vessels
Carotene - yellow or orange-red fat-soluble pigments in plants; an orange isomer of an unsaturated hydrocarbon found in many plants; is converted into vitamin A in the liver
Castor oil - a purgative extracted from the seed of the castor plant; used in paint and varnish as well as medically
Cayenne - a long and often twisted hot red pepper; ground pods and seeds of pungent red peppers of the genus Capsicum; plant bearing very hot and finely tapering long peppers; usually red
Cefobid - a parenteral cephalosporin (trade name Cefobid) used for severe infections
Cefoperazone - a parenteral cephalosporin (trade name Cefobid) used for severe infections
Ceftazidime - a parenteral cephalosporin (trade names Fortaz and Tazicef) used to treat moderate infections
Celebrex - a Cox-2 inhibitor (trade name Celebrex) that relieves pain without harming the digestive tract
Cerebellum - a major division of the vertebrate brain; situated above the medulla oblongata and beneath the cerebrum in humans
Cerebrospinal fluid - clear liquid produced in the ventricles of the brain; fills and protects cavities in the brain and spinal cord
Chamomile - Eurasian plant apple-scented foliage and white-rayed flowers and feathery leaves used medicinally; in some classification systems placed in genus Anthemis
Chickweed - any of various plants of the genus Stellaria; any of various plants related to the common chickweed
Chiropractic - a method of treatment that manipulates body structures (especially the spine) to relieve low back pain or even headache or high blood pressure
Chloramphenicol - an oral antibiotic (trade name Chloromycetin) used to treat serious infections (especially typhoid fever)
Chlordiazepoxide - a tranquilizer (trade names Librium and Libritabs) used in the treatment of alcoholism
Chloromycetin - an oral antibiotic (trade name Chloromycetin) used to treat serious infections (especially typhoid fever)
Chloroquine - an antimalarial drug used to treat malaria and amebic dysentery and systemic lupus erythematosus
Chlorpromazine - a drug (trade name Thorazine) derived from phenothiazine that has antipsychotic effects and is used as a sedative and tranquilizer
Cholangitis - inflammation of the bile ducts
Cholecystectomy - surgical removal of the gall bladder (usually for relief of gallstone pain)
Cholecystitis - inflammation of the gall bladder
Cholesterol - an animal sterol that is normally synthesized by the liver; the most abundant steroid in animal tissues
Choroid - a highly vascular membrane in the eye between the retina and the sclera
Chromium - a hard brittle multivalent metallic element; resistant to corrosion and tarnishing
Chronic leukemia - slowly progressing leukemia
Chronic - being long-lasting and recurrent or characterized by long suffering
Chylous - consisting of chyle or having the properties of chyle
Cimetidine - a drug (trade name Tagamet) used to treat peptic ulcers by decreasing the secretion of stomach acid
Cipro - an oral antibiotic (trade name Cipro) used against serious bacterial infections of the skin or respiratory tract or urinary tract or bones or joints
Ciprofloxacin - an oral antibiotic (trade name Cipro) used against serious bacterial infections of the skin or respiratory tract or urinary tract or bones or joints
Cirrhosis - a chronic disease interfering with the normal functioning of the liver; the major cause is chronic alcoholism
Classification System - a system for classifying things
Claustrophobia - a morbid fear of being closed in a confined space
Clomiphene citrate - a fertility drug (trade name Clomid) that is used to stimulate ovulation and that has been associated with multiple births
Clover - a plant of the genus Trifolium
Cluster headache - a painful recurring headache associated with the release of histamine from cells
Coagulation - the process of forming semisolid lumps in a liquid
Cocaine - a narcotic (alkaloid) extracted from coca leaves; used as a surface anesthetic or taken for pleasure; can become powerfully addictive
Codeine - derivative of opium; used as an antitussive (to relieve coughing) and an analgesic (to relive pain)
Coenzyme Q - any of several quinones found in living cells and that function as coenzymes that transfer electrons from one molecule to another in cell respiration
Colitis - inflammation of the colon
Colonic irrigation - a water enema given to flush out the colon
Comfrey - leaves make a popular tisane; young leaves used in salads or cooked; perennial herbs of Europe and Iran; make rapidly growing groundcover for shaded areas
Common cold - a mild viral infection involving the nose and respiratory passages (but not the lungs)
Complete blood count - counting the number of white and red blood cells and the number of platelets in 1 cubic millimeter of blood
Congestive heart failure - inability to pump enough blood to avoid congestion in the tissues
Conjunctivitis - inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye
Conn - verb conduct or direct the steering of a ship or plane
Cordarone - an antiarrhythmic drug (trade name Cordarone) that has potentially fatal side effects and is used to control serious heart rhythm problems only when safer agents have been ineffective
Cornus - a rosid dicot genus of the family Cornaceae including: dogwood; cornel: perennial chiefly deciduous shrubs or small trees of temperate regions of northern hemisphere
Corticotropin - a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex
Cortisone - a corticosteroid hormone (trade name Cortone Acetate) normally produced by the adrenal cortex; is converted to hydrocortisone
Cosmetic surgery - plastic surgery to remove wrinkles and other signs of aging from your face; an incision is made near the hair line and skin is pulled back and excess tissue is excised
Cosmetic - serving an aesthetic purpose in beautifying the body; serving an esthetic rather than a useful purpose; a toiletry designed to beautify the body
Coumadin - an anticoagulant (trade name Coumadin) use to prevent and treat a thrombus or embolus
Counseling - something that provides direction or advice as to a decision or course of action
Coxsackievirus - enterovirus causing a disease resembling poliomyelitis but without paralysis
Cranberry juice - the juice of cranberries (always diluted and sweetened)
Crawford - United States film actress (1908-1977); United States neoclassical sculptor (1814-1857)
Crixivan - a protease inhibitor (trade name Crixivan) used for treating HIV
Crohn - United States physician who specialized in diseases of the intestines; he was the first to describe regional ileitis which is now known as Crohn's disease (1884-1983)
Cryosurgery - the use of extreme cold (usually liquid nitrogen) to destroy unwanted tissue (warts or cataracts or skin cancers)
Cryptococcosis - a fungal infection characterized by nodular lesions--first in the lungs and spreading to the nervous system
Cryptorchidism - failure of one or both testes to move into the scrotum as the male fetus develops
Curettage - surgery to remove tissue or growths from a bodily cavity (as the uterus) by scraping with a curette
Cushing - United States neurologist noted for his study of the brain and pituitary gland and who identified Cushing's syndrome (1869-1939)
Cyanide poisoning - poisoning due to ingesting or inhaling cyanide; common in smoke from fires and in industrial chemicals
Cyclobenzaprine - muscle relaxant (trade name Flexeril) used for muscle spasms or acute injury
Cyclooxygenase - either of two related enzymes that control the production of prostaglandins and are blocked by aspirin
Cyclotron - an accelerator that imparts energies of several million electron-volts to rapidly moving particles
Cyst - a closed sac that develops abnormally in some body structure; a small anatomically normal sac or bladderlike structure (especially one containing fluid)
Cystic mastitis - the presence of one or more cysts in a breast
Cytology - the branch of biology that studies the structure and function of cells
Cytomegalovirus - any of a group of herpes viruses that enlarge epithelial cells and can cause birth defects; can affect humans with impaired immunological systems
Cytosine - a base found in DNA and RNA and derived from pyrimidine; pairs with guanine
DDT - an insecticide that is also toxic to animals and humans; banned in the United States since 1972
DES - synthetic nonsteroid with the properties of estrogen; formerly used to treat menstrual problems but was found to be associated with vaginal cancers in the daughters of women so treated during pregnancy; a potent estrogen used in medicine and in feed for livestock and poultry
DNA - (biochemistry) a long linear polymer found in the nucleus of a cell and formed from nucleotides and shaped like a double helix; associated with the transmission of genetic information
DTIC - the agency in the Department of Defense that provides scientific and technical information to federal agencies and their contractors
Dalmane - tranquilizer (trade name Dalmane) used to treat insomnia
Data - a collection of facts from which conclusions may be drawn
Death rate - the ratio of deaths in an area to the population of that area; expressed per 1000 per year
Decadron - a corticosteroid drug (trade names Decadron or Dexamethasone Intensol or Dexone or Hexadrol or Oradexon) used to treat allergies or inflammation
Decision making - the cognitive process of reaching a decision
Declomycin - tetracycline antibacterial (trade name Declomycin) effective in the treatment of some bacterial and rickettsial and other infections
Decompression - relieving pressure; restoring compressed information to its normal form for use or display
Dedifferentiation - the loss of specialization in form or function
Dehydration - the process of extracting moisture; depletion of bodily fluids; dryness resulting from the removal of water
Deletion - the act of deleting something written or printed; the omission that is made when an editorial change shortens a written passage; (genetics) the loss or absence of one or more nucleotides from a chromosome; any process whereby sounds are left out of spoken words or phrases
Delta - the 4th letter of the Greek alphabet; a low triangular area where a river divides before entering a larger body of water
Demeclocycline hydrochloride - tetracycline antibacterial (trade name Declomycin) effective in the treatment of some bacterial and rickettsial and other infections
Demerol - a synthetic narcotic drug (trade name Demerol) used to treat pain
Deoxycytidine - a nucleoside component of DNA; composed of cytosine and deoxyribose
Deoxyribonucleic acid - (biochemistry) a long linear polymer found in the nucleus of a cell and formed from nucleotides and shaped like a double helix; associated with the transmission of genetic information
Department - a specialized sphere of knowledge; a specialized division of a large organization; the territorial and administrative division of some countries (such as France)
Dependence - lack of independence or self-sufficiency; being abnormally tolerant to and dependent on something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming (especially alcohol or narcotic drugs)
Dermatitis - inflammation of the skin; skin becomes itchy and may develop blisters
Dermatosis - disorder involving lesions or eruptions of the skin (in which there is usually no inflammation)
Desensitization - the process of reducing sensitivity
Desyrel - oral antidepressant (trade name Desyrel) that is a nontricyclic drug used as a sedative
Device - any clever maneuver; an instrumentality invented for a particular purpose; an emblematic design (especially in heraldry); any ornamental pattern or design (as in embroidery); something in an artistic work designed to achieve a particular effect
Dexone - a corticosteroid drug (trade names Decadron or Dexamethasone Intensol or Dexone or Hexadrol or Oradexon) used to treat allergies or inflammation
Dextrose - an isomer of glucose that is found in honey and sweet fruits
Diabetes mellitus - diabetes caused by a relative or absolute deficiency of insulin and characterized by polyuria
Dialysis - separation of substances in solution by means of their unequal diffusion through semipermeable membranes
Diazoxide - vasodilator (trade name Hyperstat) used to treat severe hypertension
Dietary - of or relating to the diet; a regulated daily food allowance
Diethylstilbestrol - a potent estrogen used in medicine and in feed for livestock and poultry
Digoxin - digitalis preparation (trade name Lanoxin) used to treat congestive heart failure or cardiac arrhythmia; helps the heart beat more forcefully
Dilantin - an anticonvulsant drug (trade name Dilantin) used to treat epilepsy and that is not a sedative
Dilation - the act of expanding an aperture; a lengthy discussion (spoken or written) on a particular topic
Diltiazem - a calcium blocker (trade name Cardizem) used in treating hypertension or angina or heart failure
Dioxin - any of several toxic or carcinogenic hydrocarbons that occur as impurities in herbicides
Discrimination - unfair treatment of a person or group on the basis of prejudice; the cognitive process whereby two or more stimuli are distinguished
Disulfiram - a drug (trade name Antabuse) used in the treatment of alcoholism; causes nausea and vomiting if alcohol is ingested
Diverticulitis - inflammation of a diverticulum in the digestive tract (especially the colon); characterized by painful abdominal cramping and fever and constipation
Dizziness - a reeling sensation; a feeling that you are about to fall
Double vision - visual impairment in which an object is seen as two objects
Douglas - United States politician who proposed that individual territories be allowed to decide whether they would have slavery; he engaged in a famous series of debates with Abraham Lincoln (1813-1861)
Down syndrome - a congenital disorder caused by having an extra 21st chromosome; results in a flat face and short stature and mental retardation
Doxycycline - an antibiotic derived from tetracycline that is effective against many infections
Drainage - emptying something accomplished by allowing liquid to run out of it
Drowsiness - a very sleepy state
Drug - a substance that is used as a medicine or narcotic; verb administer a drug to; use recreational drugs
Dry mouth - abnormal dryness of the mouth resulting from decreased secretion of saliva
Duke - a British peer of the highest rank; a nobleman (in various countries) of high rank
Duodenum - the part of the small intestine between the stomach and the jejunum
Duplication - the act of copying or making a duplicate (or duplicates) of something; a copy that corresponds to an original exactly
Dura mater - the outermost (and toughest) of the 3 meninges
Dyskinesia - abnormality in performing voluntary muscle movements
Dysphagia - condition in which swallowing is difficult or painful
Dysthymia - mild chronic depression
EEG - a graphical record of electrical activity of the brain; produced by an electroencephalograph
EPA - an independent federal agency established to coordinate programs aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment
Ear - the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium; good hearing; attention to what is said; fruiting spike of a cereal plant especially corn; the externally visible cartilaginous structure of the external ear
Ectopic pregnancy - pregnancy resulting from gestation elsewhere than in the uterus
Edema - swelling from excessive accumulation of serous fluid in tissue
Eicosapentaenoic acid - an omega-3 fatty acid with 20 carbon atoms; found in fish (especially tuna and bluefish)
Ejaculation - an abrupt emphatic exclamation expressing emotion; the discharge of semen in males
Elavil - a tricyclic antidepressant drug (trade name Elavil) with serious side effects; interacts with many other medications
Elderly - advanced in years; (`aged' is proced as two syllables); people who are old collectively
Electrocautery - application of a needle heated by an electric current to destroy tissue (as to remove warts)
Electroencephalogram - a graphical record of electrical activity of the brain; produced by an electroencephalograph
Electrolyte balance - an equilibrium between the amounts of electrolytes (as calcium and sodium and potassium) that is essential for normal health and functioning
Electrophoresis - the motion of charged particles in a colloid under the influence of an electric field; particles with a positive charge go to the cathode and negative to the anode
Elspar - antineoplastic drug (trade name Elspar) sometimes used to treat lymphoblastic leukemia
Embolism - occlusion of a blood vessel by an embolus (a loose clot or air bubble or other particle); an insertion into a calendar
Embryonal carcinoma - malignant neoplasm of the testis
Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma - form of rhabdomyosarcoma occurring mainly in infants and children
Emend - verb make improvements or corrections to
Emesis - the reflex act of ejecting the contents of the stomach through the mouth
Enalapril - an ACE inhibitor (trade name Vasotec) that blocks the formation of angiotensin in the kidney and so results in vasodilation; administered after heart attacks
Encephalitis - inflammation of the brain usually caused by a virus; symptoms include headache and neck pain and drowsiness and nausea and fever (`phrenitis' is no longer in scientific use)
Encephalopathy - any disorder or disease of the brain
Endocrine system - the system of glands that produce endocrine secretions that help to control bodily metabolic activity
Endocrine - of or belonging to endocrine glands or their secretions; any of the glands of the endocrine system that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream; the secretion of an endocrine gland that is transmitted by the blood to the tissue on which it has a specific effect
Endometriosis - the presence of endometrium elsewhere than in the lining of the uterus; causes premenstrual pain and dysmenorrhea
Endoscopy - visual examination of the interior of a hollow body organ by use of an endoscope
Environmental Protection Agency - an independent federal agency established to coordinate programs aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment
Environmental - concerned with the ecological effects of altering the environment; of or relating to the external conditions or surroundings
Ephedrine - white odorless powdered or crystalline alkaloid from plants of the genus Ephedra (especially Ephedra sinica) or made synthetically; used as a bronchodilator to treat bronchitis and asthma
Epidural anesthesia - regional anesthesia resulting from injection of an anesthetic into the epidural space of the spinal cord; sensation is lost in the abdominal and genital and pelvic areas; used in childbirth and gynecological surgery
Epiglottis - a flap of cartilage that covers the windpipe while swallowing
Epilation - loss of hair; the result of removing hair; the act of removing hair (as from an animal skin)
Epilepsy - a disorder of the central nervous system characterized by loss of consciousness and convulsions
Epinephrine - a catecholamine secreted by the adrenal medulla in response to stress (trade name Adrenalin); stimulates autonomic nerve action
Erythroderma - any skin disorder involving abnormal redness
Erythromycin - an antibiotic (trade name Erythrocin or E-Mycin or Ethril or Ilosone or Pediamycin) obtained from the actinomycete Streptomyces erythreus; effective against many Gram-positive bacteria and some Gram-negative
Escherichia coli - a species of bacterium normally present in intestinal tract of humans and other animals; sometimes pathogenic; can be a threat to food safety
Esophagus - the passage between the pharynx and the stomach
Estazolam - a frequently prescribed sleeping pill (trade name ProSom)
Estradiol - the most powerful female hormone that occurs naturally; synthesized and used to treat estrogen deficiency and breast cancer
Ethosuximide - an anticonvulsant drug (trade names Emeside and Zarontin) used to treat petit mal epilepsy
Eucalyptus - a tree of the genus Eucalyptus; wood of any of various eucalyptus trees valued as timber
Eyelid - either of two folds of skin that can be moved to cover or open the eye
Eyes - opinion or judgment
FAB - extremely pleasing
FDA - a federal agency in the Department of Health and Human Services established to regulate the release of new foods and health-related products
FSH - a gonadotropic hormone that is secreted by the anterior pituitary and stimulates growth of Graafian follicles in female mammals, and activates the cells in male mammals that form sperm
Family Therapy - any of several therapeutic approaches in which a family is treated as a whole
Famotidine - a histamine blocker (trade name Pepcid) used to treat peptic ulcers and gastritis and esophageal reflux
Fasting - abstaining from food
Fecal impaction - accumulation of hardened feces in the rectum or lower colon which the person cannot move
Female reproductive system - the reproductive system of females
Feminization - the process of becoming feminized; the development of female characteristics (loss of facial hair or breast enlargement) in a male because of hormonal disorders or castration
Femoral artery - the chief artery of the thigh; a continuation of the external iliac artery
Fertility - the state of being fertile; capable of producing offspring; the property of producing abundantly and sustaining vigorous and luxuriant growth; the ratio of live births in an area to the population of that area; expressed per 1000 population per year
Feverfew - bushy aromatic European perennial herb having clusters of buttonlike white-rayed flower heads; valued traditionally for medicinal uses; sometimes placed in genus Chrysanthemum
Fiberoptics - the transmission of light signals via glass fibers
Fibrin - a white insoluble fibrous protein formed by the action of thrombin on fibrinogen when blood clots; it forms a network that traps red cells and platelets
Fibrinogen - a protein present in blood plasma; converts to fibrin when blood clots
Fibroadenoma - benign and movable and firm and not tender tumor of the breast; common in young women and caused by high levels of estrogen
Fibrosis - development of excess fibrous connective tissue in an organ
Fistula - an abnormal passage leading from a suppurating cavity to the body surface; a chronic inflammation of the withers of a horse
Flagyl - antiprotozoal medication (trade name Flagyl) used to treat trichomoniasis and giardiasis
Flaxseed oil - a drying oil extracted from flax seed and used in making such things as oil paints
Flexeril - muscle relaxant (trade name Flexeril) used for muscle spasms or acute injury
Flexible sigmoidoscopy - visual examination (with a sigmoidoscope) of the lower third of the colon in a search for polyps
Fluoroscopy - examination of body structures using a fluoroscope
Fluorouracil - an antimetabolite used to treat certain cancers
Fluoxetine - a selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Prozac)
Flurazepam - tranquilizer (trade name Dalmane) used to treat insomnia
Folacin - a B vitamin that is essential for cell growth and reproduction
Folate - a B vitamin that is essential for cell growth and reproduction
Forgetfulness - tendency to forget; unawareness caused by neglectful or heedless failure to remember
Formaldehyde - a colorless poisonous gas; made by the oxidation of methanol
Fortaz - a parenteral cephalosporin (trade names Fortaz and Tazicef) used to treat moderate infections
Fragrance - a pleasingly sweet olfactory property; a distinctive odor that is pleasant
France - a republic in western Europe; the largest country wholly in Europe; French writer of sophisticated novels and short stories (1844-1924)
Frederick - a town in northern Maryland west of Baltimore
Fruit - the consequence of some effort or action; the ripened reproductive body of a seed plant; an amount of a product; verb bear fruit; cause to bear fruit
Fundus - (anatomy) the base of a hollow organ or that part of the organ farthest from its opening
Furosemide - commonly used diuretic (trade name Lasix) used to treat hypertension and edema
GI series - diagnostic tests of the alimentary canal; usually involves inserting a contrast medium (such as barium sulfate) and taking an X-ray
Gait - a person's manner of walking; a horse's manner of moving; the rate of moving (especially walking or running)
Gamma globulin - a plasma protein containing the immunoglobulins that are responsible for immune responses
Garamycin - an antibiotic (trade name Garamycin) that is derived from an actinomycete; used in treating infections of the urinary tract
Garlic - aromatic bulb used as seasoning; bulbous herb of southern Europe widely naturalized; bulb breaks up into separate strong-flavored cloves
Gastrectomy - surgical removal of all or part of the stomach
Gastrin - polypeptide hormone secreted by the mucous lining of the stomach; induces the secretion of gastric juice
Gastroesophageal reflux - reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus
Gastroesophageal - of or relating to or involving the stomach and esophagus
General anesthesia - a state of total unconsciousness resulting from anesthetic drugs (as for a major surgical operation)
Genetic counseling - guidance for prospective parents on the likelihood of genetic disorders in their future children
Genetics - the branch of biology that studies heredity and variation in organisms
Germany - a republic in central Europe; split into East German and West Germany after World War II and reunited in 1990
Ginseng - Chinese herb with palmately compound leaves and small greenish flowers and forked aromatic roots believed to have medicinal powers; aromatic root of ginseng plants
Glasgow - largest city in Scotland; a port on the Clyde in west central Scotland; one of the great shipbuilding centers of the world
Glasses - optical instrument consisting of a pair of lenses for correcting defective vision
Glaucoma - increased pressure in the eyeball due to obstruction of the outflow of aqueous humor; damages the optic disc and impairs vision (sometimes progressing to blindness)
Glioblastoma - a fast-growing malignant brain tumor composed of spongioblasts; nearly always fatal
Glottis - the vocal apparatus of the larynx; the true vocal folds and the space between them where the voice tone is generated
Glucagon - a hormone secreted by the pancreas; stimulates increases in blood sugar levels in the blood (thus opposing the action of insulin)
Glucose - a monosaccharide sugar that has several forms; an important source of physiological energy
Glutamine - a crystalline amino acid occurring in proteins; important in protein metabolism
Glycyrrhiza glabra - deep-rooted coarse-textured plant native to the Mediterranean region having blue flowers and pinnately compound leaves; widely cultivated in Europe for its long thick sweet roots
Goldenseal - perennial herb of northeastern United States having a thick knotted yellow rootstock and large rounded leaves
Gout - a painful inflammation of the big toe and foot caused by defects in uric acid metabolism resulting in deposits of the acid and its salts in the blood and joints
Granulocytopenia - an acute blood disorder (often caused by radiation or drug therapy) characterized by severe reduction in granulocytes
Grapefruit juice - the juice of grapefruits
Green tea - tea leaves that have been steamed and dried without fermenting
Grief - something that causes great unhappiness; intense sorrow caused by loss of a loved one (especially by death)
Group therapy - psychotherapy in which a small group of individuals meet with a therapist; interactions among the members are considered to be therapeutic
Guilt - remorse caused by feeling responsible for some offence; the state of having committed an offense
Gynecomastia - excessive development of the breasts in males; usually the result of hormonal imbalance or treatment with certain drugs (including some antihypertensives)
HAART - a combination of protease inhibitors taken with reverse transcriptase inhibitors; used in treating AIDS and HIV
HDL - a lipoprotein that transports cholesterol in the blood; composed of a high proportion of protein and relatively little cholesterol; high levels are thought to be associated with decreased risk of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis
HIV - infection by the human immunodeficiency virus; the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS); it replicates in and kills the helper T cells
HMO - group insurance that entitles members to services of participating hospitals and clinics and physicians
HRT - hormones (estrogen and progestin) are given to postmenopausal women; believed to protect them from heart disease and osteoporosis
HUS - Czechoslovakian religious reformer who anticipated the Reformation; he questioned the infallibility of the Catholic Church was excommunicated (1409) for attacking the corruption of the clergy; he was burned at the stake (1372-1415)
Halcion - a form of benzodiazepine (trade name Halcion) frequently prescribed as a sleeping pill; usually given to people who have trouble falling asleep
Haldol - tranquilizer (trade name Haldol) used to treat some psychotic disorders and Tourette's syndrome
Haloperidol - tranquilizer (trade name Haldol) used to treat some psychotic disorders and Tourette's syndrome
Hawthorn - a spring-flowering shrub or small tree of the genus Crataegus
Headache - pain in the head caused by dilation of cerebral arteries or muscle contractions or a reaction to drugs; something or someone that causes anxiety; a source of unhappiness
Health insurance - insurance against loss due to ill health
Heart failure - inability of the heart to pump enough blood to sustain normal bodily functions
Heart rhythm - the rhythm of a beating heart
Heartburn - a painful burning sensation in the chest caused by gastroesophageal reflux (backflow from the stomach irritating the esophagus); symptomatic of an ulcer or a diaphragmatic hernia or other disorder
Hemangioma - benign angioma consisting of a mass of blood vessels; some appear as birthmarks
Hematemesis - vomiting blood
Hematocrit - a measuring instrument to determine (usually by centrifugation) the relative amounts of corpuscles and plasma in the blood; the ratio of the volume occupied by packed red blood cells to the volume of the whole blood as measured by a hematocrit
Hematological - of or relating to or involved in hematology
Hematopoiesis - the formation of blood cells in the living body (especially in the bone marrow)
Hematuria - the presence of blood in the urine; often a symptom of urinary tract disease
Hemochromatosis - pathology in which iron accumulates in the tissues; characterized by bronzed skin and enlarged liver and diabetes mellitus and abnormalities of the pancreas and the joints
Hemodialysis - dialysis of the blood to remove toxic substances or metabolic wastes from the bloodstream; used in the case of kidney failure
Hemoglobin - a hemoprotein composed of globin and heme that gives red blood cells their characteristic color; function primarily to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues
Hemophilia - congenital tendency to uncontrolled bleeding; usually affects males and is transmitted from mother to son
Hemoptysis - coughing up blood from the respiratory tract; usually indicates a severe infection of the bronchi or lungs
Hemorrhage - flow of blood from a ruptured blood vessels; verb lose blood from one's body
Hemostasis - surgical procedure of stopping the flow of blood (as with a hemostat)
Henbane - poisonous fetid Old World herb having sticky hairy leaves and yellow-brown flowers; yields hyoscyamine and scopolamine
Heparin - a polysaccharide produced in basophils (especially in the lung and liver) and that inhibits the activity of thrombin in coagulation of the blood; it (trade names Lipo-Hepin and Liquaemin) is used as an anticoagulant in the treatment of thrombosis and in heart surgery
Hepatitis B - an acute (sometimes fatal) form of viral hepatitis caused by a DNA virus that tends to persist in the blood serum and is transmitted by sexual contact or by transfusion or by ingestion of contaminated blood or other bodily fluids
Hepatitis C - a viral hepatitis clinically indistinguishable from hepatitis B but caused by a single-stranded RNA virus; usually transmitted by parenteral means (as injection of an illicit drug or blood transfusion or exposure to blood or blood products)
Hepatitis - inflammation of the liver caused by a virus or a toxin
Hepatocellular carcinoma - carcinoma of the liver
Hepatoma - carcinoma of the liver
Hepatomegaly - abnormal enlargement of the liver
Herbal Medicine - the use of medicinal herbs to prevent or treat disease or promote health; a medicine made from plants and used to prevent or treat disease or promote health
Herbal therapy - the use of plants or plant extracts for medicinal purposes (especially plants that are not part of the normal diet)
Herbal - of or relating to herbs; tea-like drink made of leaves of various herbs
Hernia - rupture in smooth muscle tissue through which a bodily structure protrudes
Hiatal hernia - hernia resulting from the protrusion of part of the stomach through the diaphragm
Highly active antiretroviral therapy - a combination of protease inhibitors taken with reverse transcriptase inhibitors; used in treating AIDS and HIV
Hippocrates - medical practitioner who is regarded as the father of medicine; author of the Hippocratic oath (circa 460-377 BC)
Histamine - amine formed from histidine that stimulates gastric secretions and dilates blood vessels; released by the human immune system during allergic reactions
Histology - the branch of biology that studies the microscopic structure of animal or plant tissues
Hoarseness - a throaty harshness
Holland - a constitutional monarchy in western Europe on the North Sea; half the country lies below sea level
Homeopathy - a method of treating disease with small amounts of remedies that, in large amounts in healthy people, produce symptoms similar to those being treated
Homosexuality - a sexual attraction to (or sexual relations with) persons of the same sex
Honey - of something having the color of honey; a sweet yellow liquid produced by bees; a beloved person; used as terms of endearment; verb sweeten with honey
Human Genome Project - an international study of the entire human genetic material
Human immunodeficiency virus - the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS); it replicates in and kills the helper T cells
Hunchback - a person whose back is hunched because of abnormal curvature of the upper spine; an abnormal backward curve to the vertebral column
Hungary - a republic in central Europe
Hydrocephalus - an abnormal condition in which cerebrospinal fluid collects in the ventricles of the brain; in infants it can cause abnormally rapid growth of the head and bulging fontanelles and a small face; in adults the symptoms are primarily neurological
Hydrochlorothiazide - a diuretic drug (trade name Esidrix and HydroDIURIL) used in the treatment of hypertension
Hydromorphone - a narcotic analgesic (trade name Dilaudid) used to treat moderate to severe pain
Hydrotherapy - the internal and external use of water in the treatment of disease
Hydroxychloroquine - anti-inflammatory drug (trade name Plaquenil) used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and malaria and lupus erythematosus
Hypercapnia - the presence of an abnormally high level of carbon dioxide in the circulating blood
Hypercholesteremia - the presence of an abnormal amount of cholesterol in the cells and plasma of the blood; associated with the risk of atherosclerosis
Hyperglycemia - abnormally high blood sugar usually associated with diabetes
Hyperkalemia - higher than normal levels of potassium in the circulating blood; associated with kidney failure or sometimes with the use of diuretic drugs
Hyperpigmentation - unusual darkening of the skin
Hyperplasia - abnormal increase in number of cells
Hypersplenism - enlarged spleen and a decrease in one or more types of blood cells; associated with many disorders
Hypertension - a common disorder in which blood pressure remains abnormally high (a reading of 140/90 mm Hg or greater)
Hyperthyroidism - an overactive thyroid gland; pathologically excessive production of thyroid hormones or the condition resulting from excessive production of thyroid hormones
Hypnosis - a state that resembles sleep but that is induced by suggestion
Hypoadrenalism - a glandular disorder caused by failure of function of the cortex of the adrenal gland and marked by anemia and prostration with brownish skin
Hypocalcemia - abnormally low level of calcium in the blood; associated with hypoparathyroidism or kidney malfunction or vitamin D deficiency
Hypogammaglobulinemia - an abnormally low concentration of gamma globulin in the blood and increased risk of infection
Hypoglycemia - abnormally low blood sugar usually resulting from excessive insulin or a poor diet
Hypogonadism - incompetence of the gonads (especially in the male with low testosterone); results in deficient development of secondary sex characteristics and (in prepubertal males) a body with long legs and a short trunk
Hypokalemia - abnormally low level of potassium in the circulating blood leading to weakness and heart abnormalities; associated with adrenal tumors or starvation or taking diuretics
Hyponatremia - abnormally low level of sodium in the blood; associated with dehydration
Hypophysectomy - surgical removal of the pituitary gland
Hypopigmentation - unusual lack of skin color
Hypotension - abnormally low blood pressure
Hypothalamus - a basal part of the diencephalon governing autonomic nervous system
Hypothermia - subnormal body temperature
Hypothyroidism - an underactive thyroid gland; a glandular disorder resulting from insufficient production of thyroid hormones
Hypovolemic shock - shock caused by severe blood or fluid loss
Hysteroscopy - visual examination of the uterus and uterine lining using an endoscope inserted through the vagina
IL - a Midwest state in north-central United States
IVP - performing pyelography with intravenous injection of a contrast medium; X-ray picture of the kidneys and ureters after injection of a radiopaque dye
Ibuprofen - a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (trade names Advil and Motrin and Nuprin) used to relieve the pain of arthritis and as an analgesic and antipyretic
IgA - one of the most common of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; the chief antibody in the membranes of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts
IgE - one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; present primarily in the skin and mucous membranes
IgG - one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; the main antibody defense against bacteria
IgM - one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; involved in fighting blood infections and in triggering production of immunoglobulin G
Ileum - the part of the small intestine between the jejunum and the cecum
Imagery - the ability to form mental images of things or events
Imipramine - a tricyclic antidepressant (trade names Imavate and Tofranil) used to treat clinical depression
Immobility - the quality of not moving; remaining in place
Immune response - a bodily defense reaction that recognizes an invading substance (an antigen: such as a virus or fungus or bacteria or transplanted organ) and produces antibodies specific against that antigen
Immune system - a system (including the thymus and bone marrow and lymphoid tissues) that protects the body from foreign substances and pathogenic organisms by producing the immune response
Immune - (usually followed by `to') not affected by a given influence; relating to or conferring immunity (to disease or infection); secure against; relating to the condition of immunity; a person who is immune to a particular infection
Immunity - the quality of being unaffected by something; (medicine) the condition in which an organism can resist disease; an act exempting someone; the state of not being susceptible
Immunoassay - identification of a substance (especially a protein) by its action as an antigen
Immunoelectrophoresis - electrophoresis to separate antigens and antibodies
Immunoglobulin A - one of the most common of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; the chief antibody in the membranes of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts
Immunoglobulin E - one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; present primarily in the skin and mucous membranes
Immunoglobulin G - one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; the main antibody defense against bacteria
Immunoglobulin M - one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; involved in fighting blood infections and in triggering production of immunoglobulin G
Immunologic - of or relating to immunology
Immunotherapy - therapy designed to produce immunity to a disease or to enhance resistance by the immune system
Impotence - an inability (usually of the male animal) to copulate; the quality of lacking strength or power; being weak and feeble
Imuran - an immunosuppressive drug (trade name Imuran) used to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ
Indinavir - a protease inhibitor (trade name Crixivan) used for treating HIV
Indium - a rare soft silvery metallic element; occurs in small quantities in sphalerite
Infertility - the state of being unable to produce offspring; in a woman it is an inability to conceive; in a man it is an inability to impregnate
Inflammation - arousal to violent emotion; a response of body tissues to injury or irritation; characterized by pain and swelling and redness and heat; the act of setting something on fire; the state of being emotionally aroused and worked up
Inflammatory bowel disease - inflammation of the colon
Inheritance - hereditary succession to a title or an office or property; any attribute or immaterial possession that is inherited from ancestors; (genetics) attributes acquired via biological heredity from the parents; that which is inherited; a title or property or estate that passes by law to the heir on the death of the owner
Insomnia - an inability to sleep; chronic sleeplessness
Insulin - hormone secreted by the isles of Langerhans in the pancreas; regulates storage of glycogen in the liver and accelerates oxidation of sugar in cells
Insurance - promise of reimbursement in the case of loss; paid to people or companies so concerned about hazards that they have made prepayments to an insurance company; written contract or certificate of insurance; protection against future loss
Internal jugular vein - a continuation of the sigmoid sinus of the dura mater; joins the subclavian vein to form the brachiocephalic vein
International - concerning or belonging to all or at least two or more nations; from or between other countries; any of several international socialist organizations
Intravenous pyelography - performing pyelography with intravenous injection of a contrast medium
Intussusception - (biology) growth in the surface area of a cell by the deposit of new particles between existing particles in the cell wall; the folding in of an outer layer so as to form a pocket in the surface
Invirase - a weak protease inhibitor (trade name Invirase) used in treating HIV
Ionizing radiation - high-energy radiation capable of producing ionization in substances through which it passes
Ionizing - converting totally or partly into ions
Iron deficiency anemia - a form of anemia due to lack of iron in the diet or to iron loss as a result of chronic bleeding
Irrigation - (medicine) cleaning a wound or body organ by flushing or washing out with water or a medicated solution; supplying dry land with water by means of ditches etc
Islets of Langerhans - cell clusters in the pancreas that form the endocrine part of that organ; secrete insulin and other hormones
Isoniazid - antibacterial drug (trade name Nydrazid) used to treat tuberculosis
Italy - a republic in southern Europe on the Italian Peninsula; was the core of the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire between the 4th century BC and the 5th century AD
Itraconazole - an oral antifungal drug (trade name Sporanox) taken for cases of fungal nail disease
Jaundice - yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes caused by an accumulation of bile pigment (bilirubin) in the blood; can be a symptom of gallstones or liver infection or anemia; a rough and bitter manner; verb affect with, or as if with, jaundice; distort adversely
Jejunum - the part of the small intestine between the duodenum and the ileum
Jugular vein - veins in the neck that return blood from the head
Keloid - raised pinkish scar tissue at the site of an injury; results from excessive tissue repair
Kelp - large brown seaweeds having fluted leathery fronds
Keratoacanthoma - skin tumor that grows rapidly (especially in older people) and resembles a carcinoma but does not spread; it usually disappears spontaneously, often leaving a scar
Kidney disease - a disease affecting the kidneys
Klinefelter syndrome - syndrome in males that is characterized by small testes and long legs and enlarged breasts and reduced sperm production and mental retardation; a genetic defect in which an extra X chromosome (XXY) is present in the male
Kyphosis - an abnormal backward curve to the vertebral column
LDL - a lipoprotein that transports cholesterol in the blood; composed of moderate amount of protein and a large amount of cholesterol; high levels are thought to be associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis
LED - diode such that light emitted at a p-n junction is proportional to the bias current; color depends on the material used
LINAC - ions are accelerated along a linear path by voltage differences on electrodes along the path
Labia majora - the two outer folds of the vulva
Lactation - the production and secretion of milk by the mammary glands; the period following birth during which milk is secreted; feeding an infant by giving suck at the breast
Lactose intolerance - congenital disorder consisting of an inability to digest milk and milk products; absence or deficiency of lactase results in an inability to hydrolyze lactose
Laetrile - a substance derived from amygdalin; publicized as an antineoplastic drug although there is no supporting evidence
Lanoxin - digitalis preparation (trade name Lanoxin) used to treat congestive heart failure or cardiac arrhythmia; helps the heart beat more forcefully
Lansoprazole - antacid (trade name Prevacid) that suppresses acid secretion in the stomach
Laparoscopy - laparotomy performed with a laparoscope that makes a small incision to examine the abdominal cavity (especially the ovaries and Fallopian tubes)
Laparotomy - surgical incision into the abdominal wall; often done to examine abdominal organs
Laryngectomy - surgical removal of part or all of the larynx (usually to treat cancer of the larynx)
Laryngopharynx - the lower part of the pharynx
Larynx - a cartilaginous structure at the top of the trachea; contains elastic vocal cords that are the source of the vocal tone in speech
Laudanum - narcotic consisting of an alcohol solution of opium or any preparation in which opium is the main ingredient
Lavage - washing out a hollow organ (especially the stomach) by flushing with water
Lavandula officinalis - aromatic Mediterranean shrub widely cultivated for its lilac flowers which are dried and used in sachets
Lavender - of a pale purple color; any of various Old World aromatic shrubs or subshrubs with usually mauve or blue flowers; widely cultivated
Leather - an animal skin made smooth and flexible by removing the hair and then tanning; verb beat with a lather strap
Leiomyoma - benign tumor of smooth muscle (usually in the uterus or digestive tract)
Lemongrass - an aromatic oil that smells like lemon and is widely used in Asian cooking and in perfumes and medicines
Leptomeninges - the two innermost layers of the meninges; cerebrospinal fluid circulates between these innermost layers
Leukeran - an alkalating agent (trade name Leukeran) used to treat some kinds of cancer
Leukocytosis - an abnormal increase in the number of white blood cells in the blood as a result of infection (as in leukemia)
Leukopenia - an abnormal lowering of the white blood cell count
Levodopa - the levorotatory form of dopa (trade names Bendopa and Brocadopa and Larodopa); as a drug it is used to treat Parkinson's disease
Librium - a tranquilizer (trade names Librium and Libritabs) used in the treatment of alcoholism
Licorice - a black candy flavored with the dried root of the licorice plant; deep-rooted coarse-textured plant native to the Mediterranean region having blue flowers and pinnately compound leaves; widely cultivated in Europe for its long thick sweet roots
Lidocaine - a local anesthetic (trade names Lidocaine and Xylocaine) used topically on the skin and mucous membranes
Life insurance - insurance paid to named beneficiaries when the insured person dies
Lily of the valley - low-growing perennial plant having usually two large oblong lanceolate leaves and a raceme of small fragrant nodding bell-shaped flowers followed by scarlet berries
Linear accelerator - ions are accelerated along a linear path by voltage differences on electrodes along the path
Liquid nitrogen - nitrogen in a liquid state
Lisinopril - an ACE inhibiting drug (trade names Prinival or Zestril) administered as an antihypertensive and after heart attacks
Lithium - a soft silver-white univalent element of the alkali metal group; the lightest metal known; occurs in several minerals
Liver disease - a disease affecting the liver
Local anesthesia - loss of sensation in a small area of the body (as when a local anesthetic is injected for a tooth extraction)
Lomotil - trade name of an antidiarrheal
Lovastatin - an oral drug (trade name Mevacor) to reduce blood cholesterol levels; used when dietary changes have proved inadequate
Lumpectomy - surgical removal of a tumor without removing much of the surrounding tissue or lymph nodes; performed in some cases of breast cancer
Lupus erythematosus - a chronic inflammatory collagen disease affecting connective tissue (skin or joints)
Lutein - yellow carotenoid pigments in plants and animal fats and egg yolks
Luteinizing hormone - a gonadotropic hormone that is secreted by the anterior pituitary; stimulates ovulation in female mammals and stimulates androgen release in male mammals
Lycopene - carotenoid that makes tomatoes red; may lower the risk of prostate cancer
Lymphadenopathy - chronic abnormal enlargement of the lymph nodes (usually associated with disease)
Lymphatic system - the interconnected system of spaces and vessels between body tissues and organs by which lymph circulates throughout the body
Lymphedema - swelling (usually in the legs) caused by lymph accumulating in the tissues
Lysine - an essential amino acid found in proteins; occurs especially in gelatin and casein
MAC - a waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric
MOA - extinct flightless bird of New Zealand
MRI - the use of nuclear magnetic resonance of protons to produce proton density images
MRS - a form of address for a married woman
Maalox - an antacid
Macrobiotic diet - a diet consisting chiefly of beans and whole grains
Macrocytic anemia - anemia in which the average size of erythrocytes is larger than normal
Macular degeneration - degeneration of the cells of the macula lutea which results in blurred vision and can cause blindness; usually age-related
Malabsorption - abnormal absorption of nutrients from the digestive tract
Malaria - an infective disease caused by sporozoan parasites that are transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito; marked by paroxysms of chills and fever
Malignancy - (medicine) a malignant state; progressive and resistant to treatment and tending to cause death; quality of being disposed to evil; intense ill will
Malignant melanoma - any of several malignant neoplasms (usually of the skin) consisting of melanocytes
Malnutrition - a state of poor nutrition; can result from insufficient or excessive or unbalanced diet or from inability to absorb foods
Mannitol - a diuretic (trade name Osmitrol) used to promote the excretion of urine
Masculinization - the abnormal development of male sexual characteristics in a female (usually as the result of hormone therapies or adrenal malfunction)
Mastalgia - pain in the breast
Mastectomy - surgical removal of a breast to remove a malignant tumor
Mastitis - inflammation of a breast (or udder)
Mastopathy - any pathology of the breast
Max - street names for gamma hydroxybutyrate
Meat - the flesh of animals (including fishes and birds and snails) used as food; the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience; the inner and usually edible part of a seed or grain or nut or fruit stone
Mediastinum - the part of the thoracic cavity between the lungs that contains the heart and aorta and esophagus and trachea and thymus
Medicaid - health care for the needy; a federally and state-funded program
Medicare - health care for the aged; a federally administered system of health insurance available to persons aged 65 and over
Medroxyprogesterone - a progestin compound (trade name Provera) used to treat menstrual disorders
Megaloblastic anemia - anemia characterized by many large immature and dysfunctional red blood cells (megaloblasts) in the bone marrow; associated with pernicious anemia
Melatonin - hormone secreted by the pineal gland
Melissa officinalis - bushy perennial Old World mint having small white or yellowish flowers and fragrant lemon-flavored leaves; a garden escapee in northern Europe and North America
Melphalan - antineoplastic drug (trade name Alkeran) used to treat multiple myeloma and some other malignancies
Men - the force of workers available
Menarche - the first occurrence of menstruation in a woman
Mendelian - of or relating to Gregor Mendel or in accord with Mendel's laws; a follower of Mendelism
Meninges - a membrane (one of 3) that envelops the brain and spinal cord
Meningitis - infectious disease characterized by inflammation of the meninges (the tissues that surround the brain or spinal cord) usually caused by a bacterial infection; symptoms include headache and stiff neck and fever and nausea
Menorrhagia - abnormally heavy or prolonged menstruation; can be a symptom of uterine tumors and can lead to anemia if prolonged
Menstrual cycle - a recurring cycle (beginning at menarche and ending at menopause) in which the endometrial lining of the uterus prepares for pregnancy; if pregnancy does not occur the lining is shed at menstruation
Mercaptopurine - a drug (trade name Purinethol) that interferes with the metabolism of purine and is used to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia
Metformin - an antidiabetic drug (trade name Glucophage) prescribed to treat type II diabetes
Methadone - synthetic narcotic drug similar to morphine but less habit-forming; used in narcotic detoxification and maintenance of heroin addiction
Methotrexate - toxic antimetabolite that limits cellular reproduction by acting as an antagonist to folic acid; used to treat certain cancers and psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis
Methyldopa - antihypertensive drug (trade name Aldomet) used in the treatment of high blood pressure
Methylphenidate - central nervous system stimulant (trade name Ritalin) used in the treatment of narcolepsy in adults and attention deficit disorder in children
Meticorten - a dehydrogenated analogue of cortisol (trade names Orasone or Deltasone or Liquid Pred or Meticorten); used as an anti-inflammatory drug in the treatment of arthritis and as an immunosuppressant
Metoprolol - beta blocker (trade name Lopressor) used in treating hypertension and angina and arrhythmia and acute myocardial infarction; has adverse side effects (depression and exacerbation of congestive heart failure etc.)
Metronidazole - antiprotozoal medication (trade name Flagyl) used to treat trichomoniasis and giardiasis
Mevacor - an oral drug (trade name Mevacor) to reduce blood cholesterol levels; used when dietary changes have proved inadequate
Mexico - a republic in southern North America; became independent from Spain in 1810
Mexiletine - antiarrhythmic drug (trade name Mexitil) used to treat ventricular arrhythmias
Mexitil - antiarrhythmic drug (trade name Mexitil) used to treat ventricular arrhythmias
Mezereum - the dried bark of the shrub mezereon
Microsurgery - surgery using operating microscopes and miniaturized precision instruments to perform intricate procedures on very small structures
Midazolam - an injectable form of benzodiazepine (trade name Versed) useful for sedation and for reducing pain during uncomfortable medical procedures
Mifepristone - an abortion-inducing drug (trade name RU_486) developed in France; when taken during the first five weeks of pregnancy it blocks the action of progesterone so that the uterus sloughs off the embryo
Mineral - of or containing or derived from minerals; composed of matter other than plant or animal; relating to minerals; solid homogeneous inorganic substances occurring in nature having a definite chemical composition
Minocin - tetracycline antibiotic (trade name Minocin) used to treat a variety of bacterial and rickettsial infections
Minocycline - tetracycline antibiotic (trade name Minocin) used to treat a variety of bacterial and rickettsial infections
Miscarriage - failure of a plan; a natural loss of the products of conception
Mithracin - an antineoplastic drug (trade name Mithracin) used to treat cancer of the testes
Mithramycin - an antineoplastic drug (trade name Mithracin) used to treat cancer of the testes
Mitomycin - a complex of antibiotic substances obtained from a streptomyces bacterium; one form (trade name Mutamycin) shows promise as an anticancer drug
Modified radical mastectomy - removal of a breast and the pectoralis minor and some lymph nodes in the adjacent armpit
Monoamine oxidase - an enzyme that catalyzes the oxidation of many body compounds (e.g., epinephrine and norepinephrine and serotonin)
Monoamine - a molecule containing one amine group (especially one that is a neurotransmitter)
Morphine - an alkaloid narcotic drug extracted from opium; a powerful, habit-forming narcotic used to relieve pain
Morton - United States jazz musician who moved from ragtime to New Orleans jazz (1885-1941)
Mosaicism - the condition in which an organism has two or more cell populations that differ in genetic makeup
Motion sickness - the state of being dizzy or nauseated because of the motions that occur while traveling in or on a moving vehicle
Motrin - a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (trade names Advil and Motrin and Nuprin) used to relieve the pain of arthritis and as an analgesic and antipyretic
Mourning - sorrowful through loss or deprivation; state of sorrow over the death or departure of a loved one; the passionate and demonstrative activity of expressing grief
Mouthwash - a medicated solution used for gargling and rinsing the mouth
Mucosa - mucus-secreting membrane lining all body cavities or passages that communicate with the exterior
Multiple sclerosis - a chronic progressive nervous disorder involving loss of myelin sheath around certain nerve fibers
Multiple - having or involving or consisting of more than one part or entity or individual; the product of a quantity by an integer
Muscle - authority or power or force (especially when used in a coercive way); animal tissue consisting predominantly of contractile cells; one of the contractile organs of the body; possessing muscular strength; a bully employed as a thug or bodyguard; verb make one's way by force
Mutamycin - a complex of antibiotic substances obtained from a streptomyces bacterium; one form (trade name Mutamycin) shows promise as an anticancer drug
Mycostatin - an antifungal and antibiotic (trade names Mycostatin and Nystan) discovered in New York State; derived from soil fungi actinomycetes
Myelin sheath - a layer of myelin encasing (and insulating) the axons of medullated nerve fibers
Myelitis - inflammation of the spinal cord
Myelogram - X-ray film of the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots and subarachnoid space
Myoglobin - a hemoprotein that receives oxygen from hemoglobin and stores it in the tissues until needed
NIH - an agency in the Department of Health and Human Services whose mission is to employ science in the pursuit of knowledge to improve human health; is the principal biomedical research agency of the federal government
Naltrexone - an oral antagonist against the action of opiates
Naprosyn - a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (trade name Naprosyn) used in the treatment of arthritis and musculoskeletal inflammation and moderate pain
Naproxen - a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (trade name Naprosyn) used in the treatment of arthritis and musculoskeletal inflammation and moderate pain
Narcolepsy - a sleep disorder characterized by sudden and uncontrollable episodes of deep sleep
National Academy of Sciences - an honorary American society of scientists created by President Lincoln during the American Civil War
National Institutes of Health - an agency in the Department of Health and Human Services whose mission is to employ science in the pursuit of knowledge to improve human health; is the principal biomedical research agency of the federal government
Necrosis - the localized death of living cells (as from infection or the interruption of blood supply)
Needle biopsy - biopsy of deep tissue that is obtained through a hollow needle
Nefazodone - an antidepressant drug (trade name Serzone)
Nelfinavir - a protease inhibitor (trade name Viracept) used in treating HIV usually in combination with other drugs
Nelson - English admiral who defeated the French fleets of Napoleon but was mortally wounded at Trafalgar (1758-1805)
Neomycin - an antibiotic obtained from an actinomycete and used (as a sulphate under the trade name Neobiotic) as an intestinal antiseptic in surgery
Nephrectomy - surgical removal of a kidney
Nephroblastoma - malignant renal tumor of young children characterized by hypertension and blood in the urine and the presence of a palpable mass
Nephropathy - a disease affecting the kidneys
Neuralgia - acute spasmodic pain along the course of one or more nerves
Neurofibroma - tumor of the fibrous covering of a peripheral nerve
Neuroma - any tumor derived from cells of the nervous system
Neurosurgery - any surgery that involves the nervous system (brain or spinal cord or peripheral nerves)
Neutropenia - leukopenia in which the decrease is primarily in number of neutrophils (the chief phagocytic leukocyte)
Nevus - a blemish on the skin that is formed before birth
New Zealand - North Island and South Island and adjacent small islands in the South Pacific; an independent country within the British Commonwealth; achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1907; known for sheep and spectacular scenery
Niacin - a B vitamin essential for the normal function of the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract
Nitrogen - a common nonmetallic element that is normally a colorless odorless tasteless inert diatomic gas; constitutes 78 percent of the atmosphere by volume; a constituent of all living tissues
Nonsteroidal - not steroidal or not having the effects of steroid hormones; an organic compound that does no contain a steroid
Norepinephrine - a catecholamine precursor of epinephrine that is secreted by the adrenal medulla and also released at synapses
Nortriptyline - a tricyclic antidepressant drug (trade name Pamelor) used along with psychotherapy to treat dysthymic depression; may interact dangerously if taken with other drugs
Norvir - a protease inhibitor (trade name Norvir) used in treating HIV
Notochord - a flexible rodlike structure that forms the supporting axis of the body in the lowest chordates and lowest vertebrates and in embryos of higher vertebrates
Nuclear medicine - the branch of medicine that uses radioactive materials either to image a patient's body or to destroy diseased cells
Nuclear - constituting or like a nucleus; (weapons) deriving destructive energy from the release of atomic energy; of or relating to or constituting the nucleus of an atom; of or relating to or constituting the nucleus of a cell
Nursing care - care by a skilled nurse
Nutritional - of or relating to or providing nutrition
Nystagmus - involuntary movements of the eyeballs; its presence or absence is used to diagnose a variety of neurological and visual disorders
Nystatin - an antifungal and antibiotic (trade names Mycostatin and Nystan) discovered in New York State; derived from soil fungi actinomycetes
ONYX - a chalcedony with alternating black and white bands; used in making cameos
Occupational therapy - physical therapy involving the therapeutic use of crafts and hobbies for the rehabilitation of handicapped or convalescing patients (especially for emotionally disturbed patients)
Occupational - of or relating to the activity or business for which you are trained
Oenothera biennis - a coarse biennial of eastern North America with yellow flowers that open in the evening; naturalized in Europe
Omentum - a fold of peritoneum supporting the viscera
Omeprazole - antacid (trade name Prilosec) that suppresses acid secretion in the stomach
Oncovin - periwinkle plant derivative used as an antineoplastic drug (trade name Oncovin); used to treat cancer of the lymphatic system
Opium - an addictive narcotic extracted from seed capsules of the opium poppy
Opportunistic - taking immediate advantage, often unethically, of any circumstance of possible benefit
Oral sex - oral stimulation of the genitals
Oropharynx - cavity formed by the pharynx at the back of the mouth
Orphenadrine - a skeletal muscle relaxant (trade name Norflex) used to treat severe muscle strain and Parkinsonism
Osteoarthritis - chronic breakdown of cartilage in the joints; the most common form of arthritis occurring usually after middle age
Osteochondroma - benign tumor containing both bone and cartilage; usually occurs near the end of a long bone
Osteogenic sarcoma - malignant bone tumor; most common in children and young adults where it tends to affect the femur
Osteomyelitis - an inflammation of bone and bone marrow (usually caused by bacterial infection)
Osteoporosis - abnormal loss of bony tissue resulting in fragile porous bones attributable to a lack of calcium; most common in postmenopausal women
Ovariectomy - surgical removal of one of both ovaries
Overdose - verb dose too heavily
Ovulation - the expulsion of an ovum from the ovary (usually midway in the menstrual cycle)
Oxazepam - a tranquilizing drug (trade name Serax) used to treat anxiety and insomnia and alcohol withdrawal
PABA - a metabolic acid found in yeast and liver cells; used to make dyes and drugs and sun blockers
PAP - worthless or oversimplified ideas; the small projection of a mammary gland; a diet that does not require chewing; advised for those with intestinal disorders
PSA - a protein manufactured exclusively by the prostate gland; PSA is produced for the ejaculate where it liquifies the semen and allows sperm cells to swim freely; elevated levels of PSA in blood serum are associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer
Pacific yew - small or medium irregularly branched tree of the Pacific coast of North America; yields fine hard close-grained wood
Paget - English pathologist who discovered the cause of trichinosis (1814-1899)
Palm oil - oil from nuts of oil palms especially the African oil palm
Pancreas - a large elongated exocrine gland located behind the stomach; secretes pancreatic juice and insulin
Pancreatectomy - surgical removal of part or all of the pancreas
Pancreatitis - inflammation of the pancreas; usually marked by abdominal pain
Pancytopenia - an abnormal deficiency in all blood cells (red blood cells and white blood cells and platelets); usually associated with bone marrow tumor or with aplastic anemia
Papain - a proteolytic enzyme obtained from the unripe papaya; used as a meat tenderizer
Papaya - large oval melon-like tropical fruit with yellowish flesh; tropical American shrub or small tree having huge deeply palmately cleft leaves and large oblong yellow fruit
Papilledema - swelling of the optic disc (where the optic nerve enters the eyeball); usually associated with an increase in intraocular pressure
Paracentesis - centesis of the belly to remove fluid for diagnosis
Paranasal - adjacent to the nasal cavities
Parathyroid hormone - hormone synthesized and released into the blood stream by the parathyroid glands; regulates phosphorus and calcium in the body and functions in neuromuscular excitation and blood clotting
Paregoric - medicine used to treat diarrhea
Parenteral - located outside the alimentary tract; administered by means other than through the alimentary tract (as by intramuscular or intravenous injection)
Paresis - a slight or partial paralysis
Parkinson - British historian noted for ridicule of bureaucracies (1909-1993); English surgeon (1755-1824)
Parotid gland - a large salivary gland that produces 50% of daytime saliva; in human beings it is located in front of and below each ear
Pathology - the branch of medical science that studies the causes and nature and effects of diseases; any deviation from a healthy or normal condition
Paxil - a selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Paxil)
Penicillamine - a drug (trade name Cuprimine) used to treat heavy metal poisoning and Wilson's disease and severe arthritis
Penicillin - any of various antibiotics obtained from Penicillium molds (or produced synthetically) and used in the treatment of various infections and diseases
Penny - a coin worth one-hundredth of the value of the basic unit; a fractional monetary unit of Ireland and the United Kingdom; equal to one hundredth of a pound
Pentazocine - analgesic drug (trade name Talwin) that is less addictive than morphine
Pentobarbital - a barbiturate (trade name Nembutal) used as a sedative and hypnotic and antispasmodic
Pentoxifylline - a drug (trade name Trental) used to treat claudication; believed to increase the flexibility of red blood cells so they can flow through the blood vessels to the legs and feet
Pepcid - a histamine blocker (trade name Pepcid) used to treat peptic ulcers and gastritis and esophageal reflux
Perfusion - pumping a liquid into an organ or tissue (especially by way of blood vessels)
Pericardium - a serous membrane with two layers that surrounds the heart
Peripheral nervous system - the section of the nervous system lying outside the brain and spinal cord
Peristalsis - the process of wavelike muscle contractions of the alimentary tract that moves food along
Peritoneal cavity - the interior of the peritoneum; a potential space between layers of the peritoneum
Peritoneum - a transparent membrane that lines the abdominal cavity in mammals and covers most of the viscera
Peritonitis - inflammation of the peritoneum
Periwinkle - edible marine gastropod; small edible marine snail; steamed in wine or baked; commonly cultivated Old World woody herb having large pinkish to red flowers; chiefly trailing poisonous plants with blue flowers
Pernicious anemia - a chronic progressive anemia of older adults; thought to result from a lack of intrinsic factor (a substance secreted by the stomach that is responsible for the absorption of vitamin B12)
Perphenazine - tranquilizer and antidepressant (trade name Triavil) sometimes used as an antiemetic for adults
Phantom limb syndrome - syndrome consisting of discomfort or pain in a limb that has been amputated
Pharynx - the passage to the stomach and lungs; in the front part of the neck below the chin and above the collarbone
Pheasant - large long-tailed gallinaceous bird native to the Old World but introduced elsewhere; flesh of a pheasant; usually braised
Phenacetin - a white crystalline compound used as an analgesic and also as an antipyretic
Phenergan - antihistamine (trade name Phenergan) used to treat allergies; also an antiemetic used to treat motion sickness
Phenobarbital - a long-acting barbiturate used as a sedative
Phenylbutazone - anti-inflammatory drug (trade name Butazolidin)
Pheochromocytoma - a vascular tumor of the adrenal gland; hypersecretion of epinephrine results in intermittent or sustained hypertension
Pheresis - a procedure in which blood is drawn and separated into its components by dialysis; some are retained and the rest are returned to the donor by transfusion
Phlebotomy - surgical incision into a vein; used to treat hemochromatosis
Photosensitivity - sensitivity to the action of radiant energy
Phototherapy - the use of strong light to treat acne or hyperbilirubinemia of the newborn
Physical therapy - therapy that uses physical agents: exercise and massage and other modalities
Physician - a licensed medical practitioner
Physostigmine - used in treatment of Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma
Phytolacca - type genus of Phytolaccaceae: pokeweed
Pia mater - the highly vascular innermost of the 3 meninges
Pimozide - the most commonly used diphenylbutyl piperidine
Pineal body - a small endocrine gland in the brain; situated beneath the back part of the corpus callosum; secretes melatonin
Piperacillin - a synthetic type of penicillin antibiotic (trade name Pipracil) used for moderate to severe infections
Piperine - derived from pepper (especially black pepper); source of the hotness of black and white pepper
Pituitary gland - the master gland of the endocrine system; located at the base of the brain
Plaquenil - anti-inflammatory drug (trade name Plaquenil) used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and malaria and lupus erythematosus
Plasmapheresis - plasma is separated from whole blood and the rest is returned to the donor
Plastic surgery - surgery concerned with therapeutic or cosmetic reformation of tissue
Plateletpheresis - platelets are separated from whole blood and the rest is returned to the donor
Plavix - a blood thinner (trade name Plavix) approved for the treatment of mild heart attacks; works by preventing blood platelets from sticking together to form clots that would restrict blood flow
Pleura - the thin serous membrane around the lungs and inner walls of the chest
Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia - pneumonia occurring in infants or in persons with impaired immune systems (as AIDS victims)
Pneumothorax - abnormal presence of air in the pleural cavity resulting in the collapse of the lung; may be spontaneous (due to injury to the chest) or induced (as a treatment for tuberculosis)
Poisoning - the act of giving poison to a person or animal with the intent to kill; the physiological state produced by a poison or other toxic substance
Polycystic kidney disease - kidney disease characterized by enlarged kidneys containing many cysts; often leads to kidney failure
Polygonum - diverse genus of herbs or woody subshrubs of north temperate regions
Potassium - a light soft silver-white metallic element of the alkali metal group; oxidizes rapidly in air and reacts violently with water; is abundant in nature in combined forms occurring in sea water and in carnallite and kainite and sylvite
Poverty - the state of having little or no money and few or no material possessions
Pravachol - an oral drug (trade name Pravachol) administered to reduce blood cholesterol levels; recommended after nonfatal heart attacks
Pravastatin - an oral drug (trade name Pravachol) administered to reduce blood cholesterol levels; recommended after nonfatal heart attacks
Prenatal diagnosis - any of the diagnostic procedures used to determine whether a fetus has a genetic abnormality
Prevacid - antacid (trade name Prevacid) that suppresses acid secretion in the stomach
Prilosec - antacid (trade name Prilosec) that suppresses acid secretion in the stomach
Primidone - an anticonvulsant (trade name Mysoline) used to treat grand mal seizures and essential tremor
Probenecid - a uricosuric drug that reduces the level of uric acid in the blood; used to treat gout
Proctoscopy - visual examination of the rectum and the end of the colon by means of a proctoscope
Progesterone - a steroid hormone (trade name Lipo-Lutin) produced in the ovary; prepares and maintains the uterus for pregnancy
Programmed cell death - a type of cell death in which the cell uses specialized cellular machinery to kill itself; a cell suicide mechanism that enables metazoans to control cell number and eliminate cells that threaten the animal's survival
Prolactin - gonadotropic hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary; in females it stimulates growth of the mammary glands and lactation after parturition
Propanolol - the first beta blocker (trade name Inderal) used in treating hypertension and angina pectoris and essential tremor
Propoxyphene - a mildly narcotic analgesic drug (trade name Darvon) related to methadone but less addictive
Prostate gland - a firm partly muscular chestnut sized gland in males at the neck of the urethra; produces a viscid secretion that is the fluid part of semen
Prostate specific antigen - a protein manufactured exclusively by the prostate gland; PSA is produced for the ejaculate where it liquifies the semen and allows sperm cells to swim freely; elevated levels of PSA in blood serum are associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer
Prothrombin - a protein in blood plasma that is the inactive precursor of thrombin
Proton - a stable particle with positive charge equal to the negative charge of an electron
Provera - a progestin compound (trade name Provera) used to treat menstrual disorders
Prozac - a selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Prozac)
Prunus serotina - large North American wild cherry with round black sour edible fruit
Prunus virginiana - a common wild cherry of eastern North America having small bitter black berries favored by birds
Pruritus - an intense itching sensation that can have various causes (as by allergies or infection or lymphoma or jaundice etc.)
Psoriasis - a chronic skin disease characterized by dry red patches covered with scales; occurs especially on the scalp and ears and genitalia and the skin over bony prominences
Psychological - mental or emotional as opposed to physical in nature; of or relating to or determined by psychology
Psychotherapy - the treatment of mental or emotional problems by psychological means; the branch of psychiatry concerned with psychological methods
Psyllium - plantain of Mediterranean regions whose seeds swell and become gelatinous when moist and are used as a mild laxative
Ptosis - drooping of the upper eyelid caused by muscle paralysis and weakness
Puberty - the time of life when sex glands become functional
Pulmonary embolism - blockage of the pulmonary artery by foreign matter or by a blood clot
Purinethol - a drug (trade name Purinethol) that interferes with the metabolism of purine and is used to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia
Pyelography - roentgenography of the kidney and ureters (usually after injection with a radiopaque dye)
Pylorus - a small circular opening between the stomach and the duodenum
Pyrexia - a rise in the temperature of the body; frequently a symptom of infection
Pyridoxine - a B vitamin that is essential for metabolism of amino acids and starch
Quality of life - your personal satisfaction (or dissatisfaction) with the cultural or intellectual conditions under which you live (as distinct from material comfort)
Quinacrine - a drug (trade name Atabrine) used to treat certain worm infestations and once used to treat malaria
Quinidine - cardiac drug (trade names Quinidex and Quinora) used to treat certain heart arrhythmias
Quinine - a bitter alkaloid extracted from chinchona bark; used in malaria therapy
RET - verb place (flax, hemp, or jute) in liquid so as to promote loosening of the fibers form the woody tissue
RNA - (biochemistry) a long linear polymer of nucleotides found in the nucleus but mainly in the cytoplasm of a cell where it is associated with microsomes; it transmits genetic information from DNA to the cytoplasm and controls certain chemical processes in the cell
RU - a rare polyvalent metallic element of the platinum group; it is found associated with platinum
Radiation therapy - (medicine) the treatment of disease (especially cancer) by exposure to a radioactive substance
Radical hysterectomy - surgical removal of the uterus and the ovaries and oviducts and cervix and related lymph nodes
Radical mastectomy - removal of a breast and the underlying muscles (pectoralis major and pectoralis minor) and lymph nodes in the adjacent armpit
Radioimmunoassay - immunoassay of a substance that has been radioactively labeled
Radiotherapy - (medicine) the treatment of disease (especially cancer) by exposure to a radioactive substance
Ranunculus - annual, biennial or perennial herbs: buttercup; crowfoot
Ras - the network in the reticular formation that serves an alerting or arousal function
Rectum - the terminal section of the alimentary canal; from the sigmoid flexure to the anus
Red clover - erect to decumbent short-lived perennial having red-purple to pink flowers; the most commonly grown forage clover
Red meat - meat that is dark in color before cooking (as beef, venison, lamb, mutton)
Reflux - an abnormal backward flow of body fluids; the outward flow of the tide
Refractory anemia - any of various anemic conditions that are not successfully treated by any means other than blood transfusions (and that are not associated with another primary disease)
Refrigeration - deliberately lowering the body's temperature for therapeutic purposes; the process of cooling or freezing (e.g., food) for preservative purposes
Regulatory Agency - a governmental agency that regulates businesses in the public interest
Rehabilitation - the restoration of someone to a useful place in society; the treatment of physical disabilities by massage and electrotherapy and exercises; vindication of a person's character and the re-establishment of that person's reputation; the conversion of wasteland into land suitable for use of habitation or cultivation
Remission - (law) the act of remitting (especially the referral of a law case to another court); an abatement in intensity or degree (as in the manifestations of a disease); the act of absolving or remitting; formal redemption as proced by a priest in the sacrament of penance; a payment of money sent to a person in another place
Renal failure - inability of the kidneys to excrete wastes and to help maintain the electrolyte balance
Renal - of or relating to the kidneys
Reproductive system - organs and tissues involved in the production and maturation of gametes and in their union and subsequent development as offspring
Resection - surgical removal of part of a structure or organ
Respiratory system - the system for taking in oxygen and giving off carbon dioxide; in terrestrial animals this is accomplished by breathing
Restoril - a frequently prescribed benzodiazepine (trade name Restoril); takes effect slowly and lasts long enough to help those people who wake up frequently during the night
Retina - the light-sensitive membrane covering the back wall of the eyeball; it is continuous with the optic nerve
Retinol - an unsaturated alcohol that occurs in marine fish-liver oils and is synthesized biologically from carotene
Retrovir - an antiviral drug (trade name Retrovir) used in the treatment of AIDS; adverse side effects include liver damage and suppression of the bone marrow
Reuben - a hot sandwich with corned beef and Swiss cheese and sauerkraut on rye bread; (Old Testment) a son of Jacob and forefather of one of the tribes of Israel
Reverse transcriptase - a polymerase that catalyzes the formation of DNA using RNA as a template; found especially in retroviruses
Rhenium - a rare heavy polyvalent metallic element that resembles manganese chemically and is used in some alloys; is obtained as a by-product in refining molybdenum
Rheum palmatum - long used for laxative properties
Rhinoscopy - examination of the nasal passages (either through the anterior nares or with a rhinoscope through the nasopharynx)
Rhubarb - plants having long green or reddish acidic leafstalks growing in basal clumps; stems (and only the stems) are edible when cooked; leaves are poisonous; long pinkish sour leafstalks usually eaten cooked and sweetened
Rifadin - an antibacterial drug (trade names Rifadin and Rimactane) used to treat tuberculosis
Rifampin - an antibacterial drug (trade names Rifadin and Rimactane) used to treat tuberculosis
Rimactane - an antibacterial drug (trade names Rifadin and Rimactane) used to treat tuberculosis
Ritalin - central nervous system stimulant (trade name Ritalin) used in the treatment of narcolepsy in adults and attention deficit disorder in children
Ritonavir - a protease inhibitor (trade name Norvir) used in treating HIV
River blindness - infestation with slender threadlike roundworms (filaria) deposited under the skin by the bite of black fleas; when the eyes are involved it can result in blindness; common in Africa and tropical America
Robert - United States parliamentary authority and author (in 1876) of Robert's Rules of Order (1837-1923)
Rocephin - a parenteral cephalosporin (trade name Rocephin) used for severe infection of the lungs or throat or ears or urinary tract
Rosemary - extremely pungent leaves used fresh or dried as seasoning for especially meats; widely cultivated for its fragrant grey-green leaves used in cooking and in perfumery
Rumex acetosella - small plant having pleasantly acid-tasting arrow-shaped leaves; common in dry places
Salicylic acid - a white crystalline substance with a bitter aftertaste; used as a fungicide or in making aspirin or dyes or perfumes
Saline solution - an isotonic solution of sodium chloride and distilled water
Saliva - a clear liquid secreted into the mouth by the salivary glands and mucous glands of the mouth; moistens the mouth and starts the digestion of starches
Salmon - of orange tinged with pink; any of various large food and game fishes of northern waters; usually migrate from salt to fresh water to spawn; flesh of any of various marine or freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae; a tributary of the Snake River in Idaho
Saquinavir - a weak protease inhibitor (trade name Invirase) used in treating HIV
Sarcoidosis - a chronic disease of unknown cause marked by the formation of nodules in the lungs and liver and lymph glands and salivary glands
Saw palmetto - small hardy clump-forming spiny palm of southern United States
Scandinavia - a group of culturally related countries in northern Europe; Finland and Iceland are sometimes considered Scandinavian; the peninsula in northern Europe occupied by Norway and Sweden
Sclera - whitish fibrous membrane (albuginea) that with the cornea forms the outer covering of the eyeball
Scleroderma - genus of poisonous fungi having hard-skinned fruiting bodies: false truffles; an autoimmune disease that affects the blood vessels and connective tissue; fibrous connective tissue is deposited in the skin
Scoliosis - an abnormal lateral curve to the vertebral column
Scopolia - genus of European perennial herbs yielding medicinal alkaloids
Scrotum - the external pouch that contains the testes
Secondhand - previously used or owned by another; derived from what is primary or original; not firsthand; adv. by indirect means
Sedation - the administration of a sedative agent or drug; a state of reduced excitement or anxiety that is induced by the administrative of a sedative agent
Selenium - a toxic nonmetallic element related to sulfur and tellurium; occurs in several allotropic forms; a stable grey metallike allotrope conducts electricity better in the light than in the dark and is used in photocells; occurs in sulfide ores (as pyrite)
Self-esteem - a feeling of pride in yourself; the quality of being worthy of esteem or respect
Self-examination - the contemplation of your own thoughts and desires and conduct
Self-hypnosis - hypnosis induced by yourself
Senna - any of various plants of the genus Senna having pinnately compound leaves and showy usually yellow flowers; many are used medicinally
Sentinel - a person employed to watch for something to happen
Septicemia - invasion of the bloodstream by virulent microorganisms from a focus of infection
Serax - a tranquilizing drug (trade name Serax) used to treat anxiety and insomnia and alcohol withdrawal
Serenoa repens - small hardy clump-forming spiny palm of southern United States
Sertraline - a selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Zoloft)
Serum sickness - a delayed allergic reaction to the injection of an antiserum caused by an antibody reaction to an antigen in the donor serum
Services - performance of duties or provision of space and equipment helpful to others
Serzone - an antidepressant drug (trade name Serzone)
Sesame oil - oil obtained from sesame seeds
Sexual activity - activities associated with sexual intercourse
Sheep sorrel - small plant having pleasantly acid-tasting arrow-shaped leaves; common in dry places
Sheridan - Irish playwright remembered for his satirical comedies of manners (1751-1816)
Shingles - eruptions along a nerve path often accompanied by severe neuralgia
Sildenafil citrate - virility drug (trade name Viagra) used to treat erectile dysfunction in men
Silica - a white or colorless vitreous insoluble solid (SiO2); various forms occur widely in the earth's crust as quartz or cristobalite or tridymite or lechartelierite
Simple mastectomy - removal of a breast leaving the underlying muscles and the lymph nodes intact
Simvastatin - an oral lipid-lowering medicine (trade name Zocor) administered to reduce blood cholesterol levels; recommended after heart attacks
Sinusitis - inflammation of one of the paranasal sinuses
Skeletal muscle - a muscle that is connected at either or both ends to a bone and so move parts of the skeleton; a muscle that is characterized by transverse stripes
Skin care - care for the skin
Sleeping sickness - an encephalitis that was epidemic between 1915 and 1926; symptoms include paralysis of the extrinsic eye muscle and extreme muscular weakness
Slippery elm - North American elm having rough leaves that are red when opening; yields a hard wood
Small cell carcinoma - highly malignant carcinoma composed of small round or egg-shaped cells with little cytoplasm; lung cancers are frequently oat cell carcinomas
Smoking - emitting smoke in great volume; the act of smoking tobacco or other substances; a hot vapor containing fine particles of carbon being produced by combustion
Snake venom - venom secreted by certain snakes
Sodium bicarbonate - a white soluble compound (NaHCO3) used in effervescent drinks and in baking powders and as an antacid
Sodium salicylate - a crystalline salt used as an analgesic and antipyretic
Sonogram - an image of a structure that is produced by ultrasonography (reflections of high-frequency sound waves); used to observe fetal growth or to study bodily organs
Spasticity - the quality of moving or acting in spasms
Spectrometry - the use of spectroscopes to analyze spectra
Speech therapy - any therapy intended to correct a disorder of speech
Sperm count - the act of estimating the number of spermatozoa in an ejaculate; the number of sperm in an ejaculate
Sperm - the male reproductive cell; the male gamete
Sphincter - a ring of muscle that contracts to close an opening
Spinal cord - a major part of the central nervous system which conducts sensory and motor nerve impulses to and from the brain; a long tubelike structure extending from the base of the brain through the vertebral canal to the upper lumbar region
Spinal fluid - clear liquid produced in the ventricles of the brain; fills and protects cavities in the brain and spinal cord
Spinal tap - removal by centesis of fluid from the subarachnoid space of the lumbar region of the spinal cord for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes
Spironolactone - a synthetic corticosteroid (trade name Aldactone) used to treat hypertension
Sporanox - an oral antifungal drug (trade name Sporanox) taken for cases of fungal nail disease
Stenosis - abnormal narrowing of a bodily canal or passageway
Sterility - the state of being unable to produce offspring; in a woman it is an inability to conceive; in a man it is an inability to impregnate; (of non-living objects) the state of being free of pathogenic organisms
Sternocleidomastoid muscle - one of two thick muscles running from the sternum and clavicle to the mastoid and occipital bone; turns head obliquely to the opposite side; when acting together they flex the neck and extend the head
Stilbestrol - a potent estrogen used in medicine and in feed for livestock and poultry
Stoma - a mouth or mouthlike opening (especially one created by surgery on the surface of the body to create an opening to an internal organ); a minute epidermal pore in a leaf or stem through which gases and water vapor can pass
Streptokinase - an enzyme produced by some strains of streptococcus that can liquefy blood clots by converting plasminogen to plasmin; used medicinally in some cases of myocardial infarction and pulmonary embolism
Stretching - act of expanding by lengthening or widening; exercise designed to extend the limbs and muscles to their full extent
Strontium - a soft silver-white or yellowish metallic element of the alkali metal group; turns yellow in air; occurs in celestite and strontianite
Sublingual gland - a small salivary gland that produces mucin (the viscous component of saliva); in human beings it is located on either side of the mouth under the tongue
Submandibular gland - a salivary gland inside the lower jaw on either side that produces most of the nocturnal saliva; discharges saliva into the mouth under the tongue
Substance abuse - excessive use of drugs
Sucralfate - medicine consisting of a tablet (trade name Carafate) used to treat peptic ulcers; said to bind to the ulcer site and coat it
Sulfadiazine - a sulfa drug used in treating meningitis and pneumonia and other infections
Sulfamethoxazole - a sulfonamide (trade name Gantanol) used to treat infections (especially infections of the urinary tract)
Sulfonylurea - antidiabetic consisting of any of several drugs that reduce the level of glucose in the blood; used to treat diabetes mellitus
Sunscreen - a cream spread on the skin; contains a chemical (as PABA) to filter out ultraviolet light and so protect from sunburn
Superior vena cava - receives blood from the head and arms and chest and empties into the right atrium of the heart; formed from the azygos and both brachiocephalic veins
Surgeon General - the senior medical officer in an army or navy; the head of the United States Public Health Service
Swayer - a person who rules or commands
Swedish massage - massage combined with a system of active and passive exercises for the muscles and joints
Systemic lupus erythematosus - an inflammatory disease of connective tissue with variable features including fever and weakness and fatigability and joint pains and skin lesions on the face or neck or arms
T cell - a small lymphocyte developed in the thymus; it orchestrates the immune system's response to infected or malignant cells
THC - psychoactive substance present in marijuana
TNF - a proinflammatory cytokine that is produced by white blood cells (monocytes and macrophages); has an antineoplastic effect but causes inflammation (as in rheumatoid arthritis)
TSH - anterior pituitary hormone that stimulates the function of the thyroid gland
TURP - removal of significant amounts of prostate tissue (as in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia)
Tagamet - a drug (trade name Tagamet) used to treat peptic ulcers by decreasing the secretion of stomach acid
Talcum powder - a toilet powder made of purified talc and usually scented; absorbs excess moisture
Tamponade - blockage or closure (as of a wound or body cavity) by (or as if by) a tampon (especially to stop bleeding)
Tanacetum parthenium - bushy aromatic European perennial herb having clusters of buttonlike white-rayed flower heads; valued traditionally for medicinal uses; sometimes placed in genus Chrysanthemum
Tardive dyskinesia - involuntary rolling of the tongue and twitching of the face or trunk or limbs; often occurs in patients with Parkinsonism who are treated with phenothiazine
Tazicef - a parenteral cephalosporin (trade names Fortaz and Tazicef) used to treat moderate infections
Technetium - a crystalline metallic element not found in nature; occurs as one of the fission products of uranium
Temazepam - a frequently prescribed benzodiazepine (trade name Restoril); takes effect slowly and lasts long enough to help those people who wake up frequently during the night
Temporal lobe epilepsy - epilepsy characterized clinically by impairment of consciousness and amnesia for the episode; often involves purposeful movements of the arms and legs and sometimes hallucinations
Tenosynovitis - inflammation of a tendon and its enveloping sheath
Testis - one of the two male reproductive glands that produce spermatozoa and secrete androgens
Testosterone - a potent androgenic hormone produced chiefly by the testes; responsible for the development of male secondary sex characteristics
Tetracycline - an antibiotic (trade name Achromycin) derived from microorganisms of the genus Streptomyces and used broadly to treat infections
Tetrahydrocannabinol - psychoactive substance present in marijuana
Thalassemia - an inherited form of anemia caused by faulty synthesis of hemoglobin
Theophylline - a colorless crystalline alkaloid derived from tea leaves or made synthetically; used in medicine as a bronchial dilator
Thermotherapy - the use of heat to treat a disease or disorder; heating pads or hot compresses or hot-water bottles are used to promote circulation in peripheral vascular disease or to relax tense muscles
Thiamine - a B vitamin that prevents beriberi; maintains appetite and growth
Thioguanine - an antineoplastic drug used to treat acute leukemias
Thoracentesis - removal of fluid from the chest by centesis for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes
Thorazine - a drug (trade name Thorazine) derived from phenothiazine that has antipsychotic effects and is used as a sedative and tranquilizer
Thrombin - an enzyme that acts on fibrinogen in blood causing it to clot
Thrombocytopenic purpura - purpura associated with a reduction in circulating blood platelets which can result from a variety of factors
Thrombocytosis - increase in the number of platelets in the blood which tends to cause clots to form; associated with many neoplasms and chronic infections and other diseases
Thromboembolism - occlusion of a blood vessel by an embolus that has broken away from a thrombus
Thrombopenia - a blood disease characterized by an abnormally small number of platelets in the blood
Thrombophlebitis - phlebitis in conjunction with the formation of a blood clot (thrombus)
Thrombosis - the formation or presence of a thrombus (a clot of coagulated blood attached at the site of its formation) in a blood vessel
Thymus gland - a ductless glandular organ at the base of the neck that produces lymphocytes and aids in producing immunity; atrophies with age
Thymus - large genus of Old World mints: thyme; a ductless glandular organ at the base of the neck that produces lymphocytes and aids in producing immunity; atrophies with age
Thyroid gland - located near the base of the neck
Thyroidectomy - surgical removal of the thyroid gland
Thyrotropin - anterior pituitary hormone that stimulates the function of the thyroid gland
Tissue plasminogen activator - a thrombolytic agent (trade name Activase) that causes fibrinolysis at the site of a blood clot; used in treating acute myocardial infarction
Tobacco - leaves of the tobacco plant dried and prepared for smoking or ingestion; aromatic annual or perennial herbs and shrubs
Tocopherol - a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for normal reproduction; an important antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body
Tofranil - a tricyclic antidepressant (trade names Imavate and Tofranil) used to treat clinical depression
Toiletry - an artifact used in making your toilet
Tolbutamide - sulfonylurea; an oral antidiabetic drug (trade name Orinase) used in the treatment of adult-onset diabetes mellitus
Toxoplasmosis - infection caused by parasites transmitted to humans from infected cats; if contracted by a pregnant woman it can result in serious damage to the fetus
Trachea - membranous tube with cartilaginous rings that conveys inhaled air from the larynx to the bronchi; one of the tubules forming the respiratory system of most insects and many arachnids
Tracheotomy - a surgical operation that creates an opening into the trachea with a tube inserted to provide a passage for air; performed when the pharynx is obstructed by edema or cancer or other causes
Transferrin - a globulin in blood plasma that carries iron
Transfusion reaction - reaction of the body to a transfusion of blood that is not compatible with its own blood; an adverse reaction can range from fever and hives to renal failure and shock and death
Transfusion - the action of pouring a liquid from one vessel to another; the introduction of blood or blood plasma into a vein or artery
Transurethral resection of the prostate - removal of significant amounts of prostate tissue (as in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia)
Trazodone - oral antidepressant (trade name Desyrel) that is a nontricyclic drug used as a sedative
Trental - a drug (trade name Trental) used to treat claudication; believed to increase the flexibility of red blood cells so they can flow through the blood vessels to the legs and feet
Triazolam - a form of benzodiazepine (trade name Halcion) frequently prescribed as a sleeping pill; usually given to people who have trouble falling asleep
Trichloroethylene - a heavy colorless highly toxic liquid used as a solvent to clean electronic components and for dry cleaning and as a fumigant; causes cancer and liver and lung damage
Trisomy - chrosomal abnormality in which there is one more than the normal number of chromosomes in a cell
Tubal ligation - a sterilization procedure with women; both Fallopian tubes are tied in two places and the tubes removed in between the ligations
Tuberculosis - infection transmitted by inhalation or ingestion of tubercle bacilli and manifested in fever and small lesions (usually in the lungs but in various other parts of the body in acute stages)
Tumor - an abnormal new mass of tissue that serves no purpose
Twins - (mineralogy) two interwoven crystals that are mirror images on each other; the third sign of the zodiac; the sun is in this sign from about May 21 to June 20
Tylenol - an analgesic for mild pain; also used as an antipyretic; (Datril, Tylenol, Panadol, Phenaphen, Tempra, and Anacin III are trademarks of brands of acetaminophen tablets)
Ubiquinone - any of several quinones found in living cells and that function as coenzymes that transfer electrons from one molecule to another in cell respiration
Ulcerative colitis - a serious chronic inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum characterized by recurrent episodes of abdominal pain and fever and chills and profuse diarrhea
Ultrasonography - using the reflections of high-frequency sound waves to construct an image of a body organ (a sonogram); commonly used to observe fetal growth or study bodily organs
Ultrasound - very high frequency sound; used in ultrasonography; using the reflections of high-frequency sound waves to construct an image of a body organ (a sonogram); commonly used to observe fetal growth or study bodily organs
Ultraviolet light - radiation lying in the ultraviolet range; wave lengths shorter than light but longer than X rays
Urethra - duct through which urine is discharged in most mammals and which serves as the male genital duct
Uric acid - a white tasteless odorless crystalline product of protein metabolism; found in the blood and urine
Urinalysis - (medicine) the chemical analysis of urine (for medical diagnosis)
Urinary bladder - a membranous sac for temporary retention of urine
Urinary incontinence - inability to control the flow of urine and involuntary urination
Urokinase - protease produced in the kidney that converts plasminogen to plasmin and so initiates fibrinolysis
VCR - a magnetic tape recorder for recording (and playing back) TV programs
Vacuum - an electrical home appliance that cleans by suction; a region that is devoid of matter; the absence of matter; an empty area or space; verb clean with a vacuum cleaner
Vagina - the lower part of the female reproductive tract; a moist canal in female mammals extending from the labia minora to the uterus
Vaginismus - muscular contraction that causes the vagina to close; usually an anxiety reaction before coitus or pelvic examination
Vaginitis - inflammation of the vagina (usually associated with candidiasis)
Valerian - a plant of the genus Valeriana having lobed or dissected leaves and cymose white or ink flowers
Valproic acid - anticonvulsant (trade name Depokene) used to prevent some kinds of seizures
Vancocin - an antibiotic (trade name Vancocin) effective against some bacterial infections
Vancomycin - an antibiotic (trade name Vancocin) effective against some bacterial infections
Varicella zoster virus - the member of the herpes virus family that is responsible for chickenpox
Vascular - of or relating to or having vessels that conduct and circulate fluids
Vasculitis - inflammation of a blood vessel
Velban - periwinkle plant derivative used as an antineoplastic drug (trade name Velban) that disrupts cell division
Venipuncture - (medicine) puncture of a vein through the skin in order to withdraw blood for analysis or to start an intravenous drip or to inject medication or a radiopaque dye
Venography - roentgenographic examination of veins
Venom - toxin secreted by animals; secreted by certain snakes and poisonous insects (e.g., spiders and scorpions); feeling a need to see others suffer
Verapamil - a drug (trade names Calan and Isoptin) used as an oral or parenteral calcium blocker in cases of hypertension or congestive heart failure or angina or migraine
Versed - thoroughly acquainted through study or experience; an injectable form of benzodiazepine (trade name Versed) useful for sedation and for reducing pain during uncomfortable medical procedures
Vertebral column - the series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord
Vertigo - a reeling sensation; a feeling that you are about to fall
Viagra - virility drug (trade name Viagra) used to treat erectile dysfunction in men
Vibramycin - an antibiotic derived from tetracycline that is effective against many infections
Victor - a combatant who is able to defeat rivals; the contestant who wins the contest
Vioxx - a Cox-2 inhibitor (trade name Vioxx) that relieves pain without harming the digestive tract; voluntarily withdrawn from the market in 2004
Virilization - the abnormal development of male sexual characteristics in a female (usually as the result of hormone therapies or adrenal malfunction)
Viscum album - Old World parasitic shrub having branching greenish stems with leathery leaves and waxy white glutinous berries; the traditional mistletoe of Christmas
Visualization - a mental image that is similar to a visual perception
Vitamin A - any of several fat-soluble vitamins essential for normal vision; prevents night blindness or inflammation or dryness of the eyes
Vitamin B complex - originally thought to be a single vitamin but now separated into several B vitamins
Vitamin B - originally thought to be a single vitamin but now separated into several B vitamins
Vitamin C - a vitamin found in fresh fruits (especially citrus fruits) and vegetables; prevents scurvy
Vitamin D - a fat-soluble vitamin that prevents rickets
Vitamin K - a fat-soluble vitamin that helps in the clotting of blood
Volvulus - abnormal twisting of the intestines (usually in the are of the ileum or sigmoid colon) resulting in intestinal obstruction
Vulvectomy - surgical removal of part or all of the vulva
Warfarin - an anticoagulant (trade name Coumadin) use to prevent and treat a thrombus or embolus
Watercress - of a moderate yellow-green color that is greener and deeper than moss green and yellower and darker than pea green; cresses that grow in clear ponds and streams; any of several water-loving cresses
Welfare - governmental provision of economic assistance to persons in need; something that aids or promotes well-being; a contented state of being happy and healthy and prosperous
Wild cherry - an uncultivated cherry tree; the fruit of the wild cherry tree
Wine - a red as dark as red wine; fermented juice (of grapes especially); verb treat to wine; drink wine
World Health Organization - a United Nations agency to coordinate international health activities and to help governments improve health services
Wormwood - any of several low composite herbs of the genera Artemisia or Seriphidium
X chromosome - the sex chromosome that is present in both sexes: singly in males and doubly in females
X-ray - a radiogram made by exposing photographic film to X rays; used in medical diagnosis; electromagnetic radiation of short wavelength produced when high-speed electrons strike a solid target; verb take an x-ray of something or somebody; examine by taking x-rays
Xanax - an antianxiety agent (trade name Xanax) of the benzodiazepine class
Xenon - a colorless odorless inert gaseous element occurring in the earth's atmosphere in trace amounts
Xylocaine - a local anesthetic (trade names Lidocaine and Xylocaine) used topically on the skin and mucous membranes
Y chromosome - the sex chromosome that is carried by men
Yogurt - a custard-like food made from curdled milk
Yttrium - a silvery metallic element that is common in rare-earth minerals; used in magnesium and aluminum alloys
Zantac - a histamine blocker and antacid (trade name Zantac) used to treat peptic ulcers and gastritis and esophageal reflux
Zeolite - any of a family of glassy minerals analogous to feldspar containing hydrated aluminum silicates of calcium or sodium or potassium; formed in cavities in lava flows and in plutonic rocks
Zidovudine - an antiviral drug (trade name Retrovir) used in the treatment of AIDS; adverse side effects include liver damage and suppression of the bone marrow
Zinc deficiency - a deficiency caused by inadequate zinc in the diet or by liver disease or cystic fibrosis or other diseases
Zinc oxide - oxide of zinc; a white powder used as a pigment or in cosmetics or glass or inks and in zinc ointment
Zinc - a bluish-white lustrous metallic element; brittle at ordinary temperatures but malleable when heated; used in a wide variety of alloys and in galvanizing iron; it occurs as zinc sulphide in zinc blende; verb coat or cover with zinc
Zocor - an oral lipid-lowering medicine (trade name Zocor) administered to reduce blood cholesterol levels; recommended after heart attacks
Zoloft - a selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Zoloft)
Zovirax - an oral antiviral drug (trade name Zovirax) used to treat genital herpes; does not cure the disease but relieves the symptoms
Zyloprim - a drug (trade name Zyloprim) used to treat gout and other conditions in which there is an excessive buildup of uric acid
abdominal - of or relating to or near the abdomen; the muscles of the abdomen
accuracy - the quality of being near to the true value; (mathematics) the number of significant figures given in a number
acetate - a salt or ester of acetic acid; a fabric made from fibers of cellulose acetate
acoustic - of or relating to the science of acoustics; a remedy for hearing loss or deafness
activated - set up and placed on active assignment; rendered active; e.g. rendered radioactive or luminescent or photosensitive or conductive; (of e.g. a molecule) made reactive or more reactive; (of sewage) treated with aeration and bacteria to aid decomposition
activation - making active and effective (as a bomb); stimulation of activity in an organism or chemical; the activity of causing to have energy and be active
adjuvant - enhancing the action of a medical treatment; furnishing added support; an additive that enhances the effectiveness of medical treatment
administration - the act of administering medication; a method of tending to (especially business) matters; the persons (or committees or departments etc.) who make up a body for the purpose of administering something; the tenure of a president
adoptive - of parents and children; related by adoption; acquired as your own by free choice
adrenal - of or pertaining to the adrenal glands or their secretions; near the kidneys; either of a pair of complex endocrine glands situated near the kidney
adrenocortical - of or derived from the cortex of the adrenal glands
aftercare - care and treatment of a convalescent patient
agricultural - relating to or used in or promoting agriculture or farming; relating to rural matters
alcohol - a liquor or brew containing alcohol as the active agent; any of a series of volatile hydroxyl compounds that are made from hydrocarbons by distillation
alcoholic - addicted to alcohol; characteristic of or containing alcohol; a person who drinks alcohol to excess habitually
allopurinol - a drug (trade name Zyloprim) used to treat gout and other conditions in which there is an excessive buildup of uric acid
alpha fetoprotein - an abnormally large amount of this fetoprotein in the fetus can signal an abnormality of the neural tube (as spina bifida or anencephaly)
alveolar - pertaining to the tiny air sacs of the lungs; pertaining to the alveolar ridge; a consonant articulated with the tip of the tongue near the gum ridge
amenorrhea - absence or suppression of normal menstrual flow
anemia - genus of terrestrial or lithophytic ferns having pinnatifid fronds; chiefly of tropical America; a deficiency of red blood cells; a lack of vitality
antibody - any of a large variety of proteins normally present in the body or produced in response to an antigen which it neutralizes, thus producing an immune response
anticipatory - in anticipation
antidiuretic hormone - hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary gland (trade name Pitressin) and also by nerve endings in the hypothalamus; affects blood pressure by stimulating capillary muscles and reduces urine flow by affecting reabsorption of water by kidney tubules
antigen - any substance (as a toxin or enzyme) that stimulates an immune response in the body (especially the production of antibodies)
antitumor - used in the treatment of cancer
aortic - of or relating to the aorta
artificial - artificially formal; contrived by art rather than nature; not arising from natural growth or characterized by vital processes
asparaginase - antineoplastic drug (trade name Elspar) sometimes used to treat lymphoblastic leukemia
atropine - a poisonous crystalline alkaloid extracted from the nightshade family; used as an antispasmodic and to dilate the eye pupil; also administered in large amounts as an antidote for organophosphate nerve agents or organophosphate insecticides
atypical - deviating from normal expectations; somewhat odd, strange, or abnormal; not representative of a group, class, or type
autologous - derived from organisms of the selfsame individual
axillary - of or relating to the armpit; of or relating to the axil
bacterial - relating to or caused by bacteria
banded - identified with a band especially around a leg; characterized by a band of especially white around the body; marked with bands or strips of contrasting color or texture
barium - a soft silvery metallic element of the alkali earth group; found in barite
benzodiazepine - any of several similar lipophilic amines used as tranquilizers or sedatives or hypnotics or muscle relaxants; chronic use can lead to dependency
bilateral - having two sides or parts; affecting or undertaken by two parties; having identical parts on each side of an axis
bile duct - a duct formed by the hepatic and cystic ducts; opens into the duodenum
biochemical - of or relating to biochemistry; involving chemical processes in living organisms
bladder - a bag that fills with air; a distensible membranous sac (usually containing liquid or gas)
blood test - a serologic analysis of a sample of blood
bone - consisting of or made up of bone; a shade of white the color of bleached bones; rigid connective tissue that makes up the skeleton of vertebrates; the porous calcified substance from which bones are made; verb remove the bones from; study intensively, as before an exam
breast cancer - cancer of the breast; one of the most common malignancies in women in the US
breast feeding - nourishing at the breast
breast - the front part of the trunk from the neck to the abdomen; either of two soft fleshy milk-secreting glandular organs on the chest of a woman; meat carved from the breast of a fowl; verb reach the summit; meet at breast level; confront bodily
bronchial - relating to or associated with the bronchi
cachexia - any general reduction in vitality and strength of body and mind resulting from a debilitating chronic disease
calcitonin - thyroid hormone that tends to lower the level of calcium in the blood plasma and inhibit resorption of bone
cancer cell - a cell that is part of a malignant tumor
capsaicin - colorless pungent crystalline compound derived from capsicum; source of the hotness of hot peppers of the genus Capsicum such as chili and cayenne and jalapeno
carcinoid - a small tumor (benign or malignant) arising from the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract; usually associated with excessive secretion of serotonin
carcinoma - any malignant tumor derived from epithelial tissue; one of the four major types of cancer
carcinomatous - being or relating to carcinoma
cardiac - of or relating to the heart
cardiomyopathy - a disorder (usually of unknown origin) of the heart muscle (myocardium)
cartilage - tough elastic tissue; mostly converted to bone in adults
catheter - a thin flexible tube inserted into the body to permit introduction or withdrawal of fluids or to keep the passageway open
celecoxib - a Cox-2 inhibitor (trade name Celebrex) that relieves pain without harming the digestive tract
cell division - the process in reproduction and growth by which a cell divides to form daughter cells
cellular - characterized by or divided into or containing cells or compartments (the smallest organizational or structural unit of an organism or organization); relating to cells
central nervous system - the portion of the vertebrate nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord
cerebral - involving intelligence rather than emotions or instinct; of or relating to the cerebrum or brain
certified check - a check containing certification that the person who issued the check has sufficient funds on deposit to cover payment
cervical - relating to or associated with the neck; of or relating to the cervix of the uterus
cessation - a stopping
chemotherapy - the use of chemical agents to treat or control disease (or mental illness)
childhood - the state of a child between infancy and adolescence; the time of person's life when they are a child
chlorambucil - an alkalating agent (trade name Leukeran) used to treat some kinds of cancer
cholangiography - roentgenographic examination of the bile ducts after a contrast medium has been injected
chondrosarcoma - a malignant neoplasm of cartilage cells
choroid plexus - a vascular plexus of the cerebral ventricles that regulate intraventricular pressure
chromosome - a threadlike body in the cell nucleus that carries the genes in a linear order
chronic lymphocytic leukemia - chronic leukemia characterized by lymphoblast-like cells; more common in older men
chronic myelocytic leukemia - chronic leukemia characterized by granular leukocytes; more common in older people
cleansing - acting like an antiseptic; cleansing the body by washing; especially ritual washing of e.g. hands; the act of making something clean
cluster - a grouping of a number of similar things; verb come together as in a cluster or flock; gather or cause to gather into a cluster
coffee - a beverage consisting of an infusion of ground coffee beans; any of several small trees and shrubs native to the tropical Old World yielding coffee beans; a medium brown to dark-brown color; a seed of the coffee tree; ground to make coffee
colon cancer - a malignant tumor of the colon; early symptom is bloody stools
colonic - of or relating to the colon; a water enema given to flush out the colon
colonoscopy - visual examination of the colon (with a colonoscope) from the cecum to the rectum; requires sedation
colorectal - relating to or affecting the colon and the rectum
colostomy - a surgical operation that creates an opening from the colon to the surface of the body to function as an anus
computed tomography - a method of examining body organs by scanning them with X rays and using a computer to construct a series of cross-sectional scans along a single axis
conscious - (followed by `of') showing realization or recognition of something; knowing and perceiving; having awareness of surroundings and sensations and thoughts; intentionally conceived
constipation - irregular and infrequent or difficult evacuation of the bowels; can be a symptom of intestinal obstruction or diverticulitis; the act of making something futile and useless (as by routine)
consumptive - tending to consume or use often wastefully; afflicted with or associated with pulmonary tuberculosis; a person with pulmonary tuberculosis
coronary artery disease - a stage of arteriosclerosis involving fatty deposits (atheromas) inside the arterial walls
cortisol - an adrenal-cortex hormone (trade names Hydrocortone or Cortef) that is active in carbohydrate and protein metabolism
coughing up - the act of expelling (food or phlegm) by coughing
cranial - of or relating to the cranium which encloses the brain
craniotomy - a surgical opening through the skull
deficiency - lack of an adequate quantity or number; the state of needing something that is absent or unavailable
defined - clearly characterized or delimited; clearly defined; showing clearly the outline or profile or boundary
definition - clarity of outline; a concise explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase or symbol
delayed - caused to be slower or later; not as far along as normal in development
description - sort or variety; a statement that represents something in words; the act of describing something
dexamethasone - a corticosteroid drug (trade names Decadron or Dexamethasone Intensol or Dexone or Hexadrol or Oradexon) used to treat allergies or inflammation
diagnosis - identifying the nature or cause of some phenomenon
diagnostic - characteristic or indicative of e.g. a disease; concerned with diagnosis; used for furthering diagnosis
diarrhea - frequent and watery bowel movements; can be a symptom of infection or food poisoning or colitis or a gastrointestinal tumor
digital - of a circuit or device that represents magnitudes in digits; relating to or performed with the fingers; displaying numbers rather than scale positions
dilated - made wider or larger in all dimensions
diphenhydramine - antihistamine (trade name Benadryl) used to treat allergic reactions involving the nasal passages (hay fever) and also to treat motion sickness
directed - manageable by a supervising agent; (often used in combination) having a specified direction
disease - an impairment of health or a condition of abnormal functioning
diseased - caused by or altered by or manifesting disease or pathology
dissection - cutting so as to separate into pieces; detailed critical analysis or examination one part at a time (as of a literary work); a minute and critical analysis
doxorubicin - an antibiotic used as an anticancer drug
dronabinol - psychoactive substance present in marijuana; used therapeutically to control nausea associated with cancer therapy
drooping - hanging down (as from exhaustion or weakness); weak from exhaustion; having branches or flower heads that bend downward
duodenal - in or relating to the duodenum
dying - in or associated with the process of passing from life or ceasing to be; eagerly desirous; the time when something ends
dysplasia - abnormal development (of organs or cells) or an abnormal structure resulting from such growth
echinacea - small genus of North American coarse perennial herbs
ectopic - exhibiting ectopia
effectiveness - power to be effective; the quality of being able to bring about an effect; capacity to produce strong physiological or chemical effects
effects - property of a personal character that is portable but not used in business
electron beam - a group of nearly parallel lines of electromagnetic radiation
embryonal - of an organism prior to birth or hatching
empiric - relying on medical quackery; derived from experiment and observation rather than theory
endometrial cancer - cancer of the uterine lining
endometrial - of or relating to the endometrium
endoscopic - of or relating to endoscopy
enema - injection of a liquid through the anus to stimulate evacuation; sometimes used for diagnostic purposes
enteritis - inflammation of the intestine (especially the small intestine); usually characterized by diarrhea
enzyme - any of several complex proteins that are produced by cells and act as catalysts in specific biochemical reactions
eosinophilic - of or relating to eosinophil
epididymis - a convoluted tubule in each testis; carries sperm to vas deferens
epidural - on or outside the dura mater; regional anesthesia resulting from injection of an anesthetic into the epidural space of the spinal cord; sensation is lost in the abdominal and genital and pelvic areas; used in childbirth and gynecological surgery
epithelial - of or belonging to the epithelium
erythropoietin - a glycoprotein secreted by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells
esophageal - relating to the esophagus
essential thrombocytopenia - the primary form of thrombocytopenia (rather than a shortage of platelets caused by with other conditions such as tuberculosis or chemical suppression of bone marrow etc.)
estrogen - a general term for female steroid sex hormones that are secreted by the ovary and responsible for typical female sexual characteristics
exacerbation - violent and bitter exasperation; action that makes a problem or a disease (or its symptoms) worse
excretory - of or relating to the process of excretion
exenteration - surgical removal of the organs within a body cavity (as those of the pelvis)
exocrine - of or relating to exocrine glands or their secretions; a gland that secretes externally through a duct
expandable - (of gases) capable of expansion; able to expand or be expanded
external - happening or arising or located outside or beyond some limits or especially surface; purely outward or superficial; from or between other countries; coming from the outside; outward features
extracellular - located or occurring outside a cell or cells
fallopian tube - either of a pair of tubes conducting the egg from the ovary to the uterus
familial - tending to occur among members of a family usually by heredity; relating to or having the characteristics of a family
fever - intense nervous anticipation; a rise in the temperature of the body; frequently a symptom of infection
flaps - a movable airfoil that is part of an aircraft wing; used to increase lift or drag
floxuridine - antineoplastic drug used to treat some cancers; can cause loss of hair
fluorescence - light emitted during absorption of radiation of some other (invisible) wavelength
folic acid - a B vitamin that is essential for cell growth and reproduction
follicular - of or relating to or constituting a follicle
gallbladder - a muscular sac attached to the liver that secretes bile and stores it until needed for digestion
gastric - relating to or involving the stomach
gastrointestinal - of or relating to the stomach and intestines
gene - (genetics) a segment of DNA that is involved in producing a polypeptide chain; it can include regions preceding and following the coding DNA as well as introns between the exons; it is considered a unit of heredity
genetic defect - a disease or disorder that is inherited genetically
genetic - of or relating to the science of genetics; pertaining to or referring to origin; tending to occur among members of a family usually by heredity; of or relating to or produced by or being a gene
genital - of or relating to the external sex organs
gentamicin - an antibiotic (trade name Garamycin) that is derived from an actinomycete; used in treating infections of the urinary tract
germ cell - a spermatozoon or an ovum
gonadal - of or relating to the gonads
gonadotropin - hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and placenta; stimulates the gonads and controls reproductive activity
grading - changing the ground level to a smooth horizontal or gently sloping surface; evaluation of performance by assigning a grade or score; the act of arranging in a graduated series
gram-negative - (of bacteria) being of or relating to a bacterium that does not retain the violet stain used in Gram's method
gram-positive - (of bacteria) being or relating to a bacterium that retains the violet stain used in Gram's method
gynecologic - of or relating to or practicing gynecology
hCG - hormone produced early in pregnancy by the placenta; detection in the urine and serum is the basis for one kind of pregnancy test
hearing loss - partial or complete loss of hearing
helical - in the shape of a coil
hematopoietic - pertaining to the formation of blood or blood cells
hemolytic anemia - anemia resulting from destruction of erythrocytes
hemolytic - relating to or involving or causing hemolysis
hepatic artery - arteries that supply the liver
hepatic - pertaining to or affecting the liver; any of numerous small green nonvascular plants of the class Hepaticopsida growing in wet places and resembling green seaweeds or leafy mosses
hereditary - inherited or inheritable by established rules (usually legal rules) of descent; tending to occur among members of a family usually by heredity
herpes simplex - a herpes virus that affects the skin and nervous system; an infection caused by the herpes simples virus; affects the skin and nervous system; produces small temporary (but sometimes painful) blisters on the skin and mucous membranes
herpes zoster - a herpes virus that causes shingles; eruptions along a nerve path often accompanied by severe neuralgia
high frequency - 3 to 30 megahertz; a pitch that is perceived as above other pitches
high-grade - surpassing in quality
high-resolution - producing images that are sharp and finely detailed
high-voltage - operating on or powered by a high voltage; vigorously energetic or forceful
hormone replacement therapy - hormones (estrogen and progestin) are given to postmenopausal women; believed to protect them from heart disease and osteoporosis
hormone - the secretion of an endocrine gland that is transmitted by the blood to the tissue on which it has a specific effect
hospice - a program of medical and emotional care for the terminally ill; a lodging for travelers (especially one kept by a monastic order)
hour - distance measured by the time taken to cover it; a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day; clock time; a special and memorable period
human chorionic gonadotropin - hormone produced early in pregnancy by the placenta; detection in the urine and serum is the basis for one kind of pregnancy test
human papilloma virus - any of a group of papovaviruses associated with genital or oral carcinomas or a group associated with benign genital tumors
humoral - of or relating to bodily fluids
hybridization - (genetics) the act of mixing different species or varieties of animals or plants and thus to produce hybrids
hydatidiform mole - an abnormality during pregnancy; chorionic villi around the fetus degenerate and form clusters of fluid-filled sacs; usually associated with the death of the fetus
hydrochloride - a complex consisting of an organic base in association with hydrogen chloride
hydrocortisone - an adrenal-cortex hormone (trade names Hydrocortone or Cortef) that is active in carbohydrate and protein metabolism
hypercalcemia - the presence of abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood; usually the result of excessive bone resorption in hyperparathyroidism or Paget's disease
hyperparathyroidism - excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone resulting in abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood; can affect many systems of the body (especially causing bone resorption and osteoporosis)
hyperthermia - abnormally high body temperature; sometimes induced (as in treating some forms of cancer)
hypothalamic - of or relating to the hypothalamus
hysterectomy - surgical removal of the uterus
idiopathic - (of diseases) arising from an unknown cause
imaging - (medicine) obtaining pictures of the interior of the body; the ability to form mental images of things or events
immune globulin - a class of proteins produced in lymph tissue in vertebrates and that function as antibodies in the immune response
immunoglobulin - a class of proteins produced in lymph tissue in vertebrates and that function as antibodies in the immune response
immunohistochemistry - an assay that shows specific antigens in tissues by the use of markers that are either fluorescent dyes or enzymes (such as horseradish peroxidase)
immunosuppression - lowering the body's normal immune response to invasion by foreign substances; can be deliberate (as in lowering the immune response to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ) or incidental (as a side effect of radiotherapy or chemotherapy for cancer)
implanted - (used especially of ideas or principles) deeply rooted; firmly fixed or held
in-situ - being in the original position; not having been moved
in - currently fashionable; directed or bound inward; holding office; adv. to or toward the inside of; a state in midwestern United States; a unit of length equal to one twelfth of a foot; a rare soft silvery metallic element; occurs in small quantities in sphalerite
incontinence - involuntary urination or defecation; indiscipline with regard to sensuous pleasures
increase - the act of increasing something; the amount by which something increases; a change resulting in an increase; a process of becoming larger or longer or more numerous or more important; a quantity that is added; verb make bigger or more; become bigger or greater in amount
induced - brought about or caused; not spontaneous
indwelling - existing or residing as an inner activating spirit or force or principle
inflammatory - characterized or caused by inflammation; arousing to action or rebellion
interferon - an antiviral protein produced by cells that have been invaded by a virus; inhibits replication of the virus
interleukin - any of several lymphokines that promote macrophages and killer T cells and B cells and other components of the immune system
internal - happening or arising or located within some limits or especially surface; occurring within an institution or community; located inward; inside the country; innermost or essential
interstitial - of or relating to interstices
intestinal obstruction - blockage of the intestine (especially the ileum) that prevents the contents of the intestine from passing to the lower bowel
intestinal - of or relating to or inside the intestines
intracellular - located or occurring within a cell or cells
intracranial - within the skull
intractable - not tractable; difficult to manage or mold
intramuscular - within a muscle
intravenous - within or by means of a vein
inverted - being in such a position that top and bottom are reversed; (of a plant ovule) completely inverted; turned back 180 degrees on its stalk
itching - an irritating cutaneous sensation that produces a desire to scratch
kidney failure - inability of the kidneys to excrete wastes and to help maintain the electrolyte balance
kidney - either of two bean-shaped excretory organs that filter wastes (especially urea) from the blood and excrete them and water in urine
laryngeal - of or relating to or situated in the larynx
leiomyosarcoma - sarcoma of smooth muscle; occurs most often digestive tract or uterus or bladder or prostate
lentiginous - relating to or covered with or resembling freckles
leukemia - malignant neoplasm of blood-forming tissues; characterized by abnormal proliferation of leukocytes; one of the four major types of cancer
lifestyle - a manner of living that reflects the person's values and attitudes
listeriosis - an infectious disease of animals and humans (especially newborn or immunosuppressed persons) caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes; in sheep and cattle the infection frequently involves the central nervous system and causes various neurological symptoms
liver cancer - malignant neoplastic disease of the liver usually occurring as a metastasis from another cancer; symptoms include loss of appetite and weakness and bloating and jaundice and upper abdominal discomfort
lobectomy - surgical removal of a lobe from any organ of the body (as the lung or brain)
lomustine - an antineoplastic drug often used to treat brain tumors or Hodgkin's disease
lorazepam - tranquilizer (trade name Ativan) used to treat anxiety and tension and insomnia
low-density - having low concentration; having low relative density or specific gravity
low-grade - of inferior quality
lumbar puncture - removal by centesis of fluid from the subarachnoid space of the lumbar region of the spinal cord for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes
lung cancer - carcinoma of the lungs; one of the commonest forms of cancer
lung - either of two saclike respiratory organs in the chest of vertebrates; serves to remove carbon dioxide and provide oxygen to the blood
lymph node - the source of lymph and lymphocytes
lymphangiography - roentgenographic examination of lymph nodes and lymph vessels after injection of a radiopaque contrast medium; produces a lymphangiogram
lymphocyte - an agranulocytic leukocyte that normally makes up a quarter of the white blood cell count but increases in the presence of infection
lymphoid tissue - tissue making up the lymphatic system
lymphoma - a neoplasm of lymph tissue that is usually malignant; one of the four major types of cancer
macrobiotic - of or relating to the theory or practice of macrobiotics
magnetic resonance imaging - the use of nuclear magnetic resonance of protons to produce proton density images
magnetic resonance - resonance of electrons or atoms or molecules or nuclei to radiation frequencies as a result of space quantization in a magnetic field
malignant - dangerous to health; characterized by progressive and uncontrolled growth (especially of a tumor)
mammary - of or relating to the milk-giving gland of the female
mammography - a diagnostic procedure to detect breast tumors by the use of X rays
mapping - (genetics) the process of locating genes on a chromosome; a function such that for every element of one set there is a unique element of another set
maternal - characteristic of a mother; relating to or derived from one's mother; relating to or characteristic of or befitting a parent; related on the mother's side
meclizine - an antihistamine (trade name Antivert) used to treat or prevent motion sickness
megaloblastic - of or relating to megaloblasts
megestrol acetate - a synthetic progestational compound used to treat endometrial carcinoma
melanoma - any of several malignant neoplasms (usually of the skin) consisting of melanocytes
meningioma - a tumor arising in the meninges which surround the brain and spinal cord; usually slow growing and sometimes malignant
menopause - the time in a woman's life in which the menstrual cycle ends
meperidine - a synthetic narcotic drug (trade name Demerol) used to treat pain
mesothelioma - a rare form of carcinoma of the mesothelium lining lungs or abdomen or heart; usually associated with exposure to asbestos dust
metabolic - undergoing metamorphosis; of or relating to metabolism
metastasis - the spreading of a disease to another part of the body; the organic processes (in a cell or organism) that are necessary for life
metastatic - relating to or affected by metastasis
methyltestosterone - an androgenic compound contained in drugs that are used to treat testosterone deficiency and female breast cancer and to stimulate growth and weight gain
midline - the median plane of the body (or some part of the body)
mild - moderate in type or degree or effect or force; far from extreme; mild and pleasant; humble in spirit or manner; suggesting retiring mildness or even cowed submissiveness
mini - used of women's clothing; very short with hemline above the knee; a very short skirt
mixed - consisting of a haphazard assortment of different kinds (even to the point of incongruity); involving or composed of different races; caused to combine or unite
mortality - the quality or state of being mortal; the ratio of deaths in an area to the population of that area; expressed per 1000 per year
multiple myeloma - myeloma that develops in several places at the same time
myasthenia gravis - a chronic progressive disease characterized by chronic fatigue and muscular weakness (especially in the face and neck); caused by a deficiency of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junctions
myelocytic leukemia - a malignant neoplasm of blood-forming tissues; marked by proliferation of myelocytes and their presence in the blood
myelofibrosis - fibrosis of the bone marrow
myeloma - a tumor of the bone marrow (usually malignant) composed of cells normally found in bone marrow
nasal - sounding as if the nose were pinched; of or in or relating to the nose; an elongated rectangular bone that forms the bridge of the nose; a consonant produced through the nose with the mouth closed
nasopharyngeal - of or relating to or located near the nasopharynx
nausea - disgust so strong it makes you feel sick; the state that precedes vomiting
neuroblastoma - malignant tumor containing embryonic nerve cells; usually metastasizes quickly
neuroendocrine - of or relating to the nervous and endocrine systems (especially as they function together)
neurofibromatosis - autosomal dominant disease characterized by numerous neurofibromas and by spots on the skin and often by developmental abnormalities
neurogenic - arising in or stimulated by nerve tissues
neuropathy - any pathology of the peripheral nerves
nicotine - an alkaloid poison that occurs in tobacco; used in medicine and as an insecticide
nodular - having nodules or occurring in the form of nodules; relating to or characterized by or having nodules
noncyclic - not cyclic; not having repeated cycles
nutrition - the scientific study of food and drink (especially in humans); (physiology) the organic process of nourishing or being nourished; the processes by which an organism assimilates food and uses it for growth and maintenance; a source of materials to nourish the body
oatmeal - meal made from rolled or ground oats; porridge made of rolled oats
obesity - more than average fatness
obstetric - of or relating to or used in or practicing obstetrics
olfactory - of or relating to olfaction
omega - the last (24th) letter of the Greek alphabet; the ending of a series or sequence
oophorectomy - surgical removal of one of both ovaries
oral cancer - malignant neoplasm of the lips of mouth; most common in men over the age of 60
orbital - of or relating to the eye socket; of or relating to an orbit
orchiectomy - surgical removal of one or both testicles
oropharyngeal - of or relating to or located near the oropharynx
orthopedic - of or relating to or employed in orthopedics
orthophosphate - a salt of phosphoric acid
osteosarcoma - malignant bone tumor; most common in children and young adults where it tends to affect the femur
ostomy - surgical procedure that creates an artificial opening for the elimination of bodily wastes
ovarian - of or involving the ovaries
oxidase - any of the enzymes that catalyze biological oxidation
pancreatic cancer - cancer of the pancreas
pancreatic - of or involving the pancreas
papillary - of or relating to or resembling papilla
paranasal sinus - any of the paired sinuses in the bones of the face adjacent to the nasal cavity that are lined with mucous membrane that is continuous with the lining of the nasal cavities
parathyroid - any one of four endocrine glands situated above or within the thyroid gland
parts - the local environment
pelvic - of or relating to the pelvis
penile - of or relating to the penis
peppermint - a candy flavored with peppermint oil; herb with downy leaves and small purple or white flowers that yields a pungent oil used as a flavoring; red gum tree of Tasmania
peptide - amide combining the amino group of one amino acid with the carboxyl group of another; usually obtained by partial hydrolysis of protein
perineal - of or relating to the perineum
peritoneal - of or relating to or affecting the peritoneum
pernicious - working or spreading in a hidden and usually injurious way; exceedingly harmful
phantom limb - the illusion that a limb still exists after it has been amputated
phenytoin - an anticonvulsant drug (trade name Dilantin) used to treat epilepsy and that is not a sedative
pilocarpine - cholinergic alkaloid used in eyedrops to treat glaucoma
pineal - having the form of a pine cone; relating to the pineal body
pituitary - of or relating to the pituitary gland; having abnormal size with overgrown extremities resulting from abnormal pituitary secretion; the master gland of the endocrine system; located at the base of the brain
platelet - tiny bits of protoplasm found in vertebrate blood; essential for blood clotting
pleomorphic - relating to or characterized by pleomorphism
pleural - of or relating to the pleura or the walls of the thorax
pneumonectomy - surgical removal of a lung (usually to treat lung cancer)
pneumonia - respiratory disease characterized by inflammation of the lung parenchyma (excluding the bronchi) with congestion caused by viruses or bacteria or irritants
polio - an acute viral disease marked by inflammation of nerve cells of the brain stem and spinal cord
polyunsaturated - (of long-chain carbon compounds especially fats) having many unsaturated bonds
positron emission tomography - using a computerized radiographic technique to examine the metabolic activity in various tissues (especially in the brain)
posterior - at or near the hind end in quadrupeds or toward the spine in primates; a tooth situated at the back of the mouth; the fleshy part of the human body that you sit on
postoperative - happening or done after a surgical operation
postural - of or relating to or involving posture
precancerous - of or relating to a growth that is not malignant but is likely to become so if not treated
precocious - appearing or developing early; characterized by or characteristic of exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude)
prednisone - a dehydrogenated analogue of cortisol (trade names Orasone or Deltasone or Liquid Pred or Meticorten); used as an anti-inflammatory drug in the treatment of arthritis and as an immunosuppressant
pregnancy - the state of being pregnant; the period from conception to birth when a woman carries a developing fetus in her uterus
premature - uncommonly early or before the expected time; born after a gestation period of less than the normal time; too soon or too hasty
preoperative - happening or done before and in preparation for a surgical operation
preventative - preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease; tending to prevent or hinder; an agent or device intended to prevent conception; any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome; remedy that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease
prevention - the act of preventing
procarbazine - an antineoplastic drug used to treat Hodgkin's disease
prochlorperazine - antipsychotic and antiemetic drug used to treat schizophrenia and to combat nausea and vomiting
productive - producing or capable of producing (especially abundantly); yielding positive results; marked by great fruitfulness; having the ability to produce or originate
prognosis - a prediction of the course of a disease; a prediction about how something (as the weather) will develop
promethazine - antihistamine (trade name Phenergan) used to treat allergies; also an antiemetic used to treat motion sickness
prostate cancer - cancer of the prostate gland
prostate - relating to the prostate gland; a firm partly muscular chestnut sized gland in males at the neck of the urethra; produces a viscid secretion that is the fluid part of semen
prostatectomy - surgical removal of part or all of the prostate gland
proteomics - the branch of genetics that studies the full set of proteins encoded by a genome
pulmonary - relating to or affecting the lungs
pure tone - a steady sound without overtones
purpura - any of several blood diseases causing subcutaneous bleeding
pyrimidine - a heterocyclic organic compound with a penetrating odor; any of several basic compounds derived from pyrimidine
radioactive - exhibiting or caused by radioactivity
radon - a radioactive gaseous element formed by the disintegration of radium; the heaviest of the inert gasses; occurs naturally (especially in areas over granite) and is considered a hazard to health
ranitidine - a histamine blocker and antacid (trade name Zantac) used to treat peptic ulcers and gastritis and esophageal reflux
reconstructed - adapted to social or economic change
reconstructive surgery - surgery concerned with therapeutic or cosmetic reformation of tissue
reconstructive - helping to restore to good condition
rectal - of or involving the rectum
recurrence - happening again (especially at regular intervals)
recurrent - recurring again and again
red blood cell - a mature blood cell that contains hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the bodily tissues; a biconcave disc that has no nucleus
refractory - temporarily unresponsive or not fully responsive to nervous or sexual stimuli; not responding to treatment; stubbornly resistant to authority or control; lining consisting of material with a high melting point; used to line the inside walls of a furnace
refrigerated - made or kept cold by refrigeration
regional - related or limited to a particular region; characteristic of a region
rejection - the act of rejecting something; the speech act of rejecting; (medicine) an immunological response that refuses to accept substances or organisms that are recognized as foreign; the state of being rejected
removal - dismissal from office; the act of removing
renal pelvis - a structure shaped like a funnel in the outlet of the kidney into which urine is discharged before passing into the ureter
retinal - in or relating to the retina of the eye; either of two yellow to red retinal pigments formed from rhodopsin by the action of light
retinoblastoma - malignant ocular tumor of retinal cells; usually occurs before the third year of life; composed of primitive small round retinal cells
rhabdomyosarcoma - a highly malignant neoplasm derived from striated muscle
rheumatoid - of or pertaining to arthritis
river - a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek)
rofecoxib - a Cox-2 inhibitor (trade name Vioxx) that relieves pain without harming the digestive tract; voluntarily withdrawn from the market in 2004
rotavirus - the reovirus causing infant enteritis
sarcoma - a usually malignant tumor arising from connective tissue (bone or muscle etc.); one of the four major types of cancer
scalp - the skin that covers the top of the head; verb remove the scalp of; sell illegally, as on the black market
scar - a mark left (usually on the skin) by the healing of injured tissue; an indication of damage; verb mark with a scar
schedule - an ordered list of times at which things are planned to occur; a temporally organized plan for matters to be attended to; verb plan for an activity or event; make a schedule; plan the time and place for events
scopolamine - an alkaloid with anticholinergic effects that is used as a sedative and to treat nausea and to dilate the pupils in ophthalmic procedures
screening - testing objects or persons in order to identify those with particular characteristics; fabric of metal or plastic mesh; the display of a motion picture; the act of concealing the existence of something by obstructing the view of it
segmented - having the body divided into successive metameres or segments, as in earthworms or lobsters
seminoma - malignant tumor of the testis; usually occurring in older men
sepsis - the presence of pus-forming bacteria or their toxins in the blood or tissues
septic - containing or resulting from disease-causing organisms; of or relating to or caused by putrefaction
serous - of or producing or containing serum
sessile - attached directly by the base; not having an intervening stalk; permanently attached to a substrate; not free to move about
severe - very bad in degree or extent; unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment; intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality; causing fear or anxiety by threatening great harm; severely simple; very strong or vigorous
sexuality - the properties that distinguish organisms on the basis of their reproductive roles
sickle cell - an abnormal red blood cell that has a crescent shape and an abnormal form of hemoglobin
sigmoidoscopy - visual examination (with a sigmoidoscope) of the lower third of the colon in a search for polyps
singlet - a collarless men's undergarment for the upper part of the body
skeletal - of or relating to or forming or attached to a skeleton; very thin especially from disease or hunger or cold
skin cancer - a malignant neoplasm of the skin
small intestine - the longest part of the alimentary canal; where digestion is completed
smokeless - emitting or containing little or no smoke
somatic - affecting or characteristic of the body as opposed to the mind or spirit
spectroscopy - the use of spectroscopes to analyze spectra
spleen - a large dark-red oval organ on the left side of the body between the stomach and the diaphragm; produces cells involved in immune responses; a feeling of resentful anger
splenectomy - surgical removal of the spleen
splenic - of or relating to the spleen
splenomegaly - an abnormal enlargement of the spleen
sporadic - recurring in scattered and irregular or unpredictable instances
squamous cell carcinoma - the most common form of skin cancer
squamous cell - an epithelial cell that is flat like a plate and form a single layer of epithelial tissue
staging - getting rid of a stage of a multistage rocket; travel by stagecoach; a system of scaffolds; the production of a drama on the stage
stomatitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth
strengthening - the act of increasing the strength of something; becoming stronger
subcutaneous - relating to or located below the epidermis
suppressor gene - a gene that suppresses the phenotypic expression of another gene (especially of a mutant gene)
surgical - performed with great precision; relating to or requiring or amenable to treatment by surgery especially as opposed to medicine; of or relating to or involving or used in surgery
syndrome - a complex of concurrent things; a pattern of symptoms indicative of some disease
synovial - relating to or secreting synovia
systemic - affecting an entire system
tamoxifen - an antagonist for estrogen that is used in the treatment of breast cancer
telomerase - an enzyme in eukaryotic cells that can add telomeres to the ends of chromosomes after they divide
teratoma - a tumor consisting of a mixture of tissues not normally found at that site
testicular cancer - malignant tumor of the testis; usually occurring in older men
testicular - of or involving the testes
thalidomide - a sedative and hypnotic drug; withdrawn from sale after discovered to cause severe birth defects because it inhibits angiogenesis
therapeutic - relating to or involved in therapy; tending to cure or restore to health; a medicine or therapy that cures disease or relieve pain
therapy - (medicine) the act of caring for someone (as by medication or remedial training etc.)
thiotepa - an antineoplastic drug used to treat certain malignancies
thoracotomy - surgical incision into the chest walls opening up the pleural cavity
thrombocytopenia - a blood disease characterized by an abnormally small number of platelets in the blood
thrush - songbirds characteristically having brownish upper plumage with a spotted breast; a woman who sings popular songs; candidiasis of the oral cavity; seen mostly in infants or debilitated adults
thyroid - suggestive of a thyroid disorder; of or relating to the thyroid gland; located near the base of the neck
tomography - (medicine) obtaining pictures of the interior of the body
topical - of interest at the present time; pertaining to the surface of a body part; of or relating to or arranged by topics
toxicity - the degree to which something is poisonous; grave harmfulness or deadliness
tracheostomy - a surgical operation that creates an opening into the trachea with a tube inserted to provide a passage for air; performed when the pharynx is obstructed by edema or cancer or other causes
transitional - of or relating to or characterized by transition
transplantation - the act of removing something from one location and introducing it in another location; an operation moving an organ from one organism (the donor) to another (the recipient)
transverse - extending or lying across; in a crosswise direction; at right angles to the long axis
trilateral - having three sides; involving three parties or elements; a three-sided polygon
tumor necrosis factor - a proinflammatory cytokine that is produced by white blood cells (monocytes and macrophages); has an antineoplastic effect but causes inflammation (as in rheumatoid arthritis)
typical - conforming to a type; exhibiting the qualities or characteristics that identify a group or kind or category; of a feature that helps to distinguish a person or thing
ultraviolet radiation - radiation lying in the ultraviolet range; wave lengths shorter than light but longer than X rays
undescended - (of the testis) remaining in the abdomen instead of descending into the scrotum
urethral - of or relating to the urethra
urinary system - the system that includes all organs involved in reproduction and in the formation and voidance of urine
urinary tract - the organs and tubes involved in the production and excretion of urine
uterine - of or involving the uterus
vaginal - of or relating to the vagina
vegan - a strict vegetarian; someone who eats no animal or dairy products at all
vinblastine - periwinkle plant derivative used as an antineoplastic drug (trade name Velban) that disrupts cell division
vincristine - periwinkle plant derivative used as an antineoplastic drug (trade name Oncovin); used to treat cancer of the lymphatic system
viral - relating to or caused by a virus
virtual - existing in essence or effect though not in actual fact; being actually such in almost every respect
visceral - relating to or affecting the viscera; obtained through intuition rather than from reasoning or observation
vitamin E - a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for normal reproduction; an important antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body
vomiting - the reflex act of ejecting the contents of the stomach through the mouth
vulvar - of or relating to the vulva
whole blood - blood that has not been modified except for the addition of an anticoagulant
xerostomia - abnormal dryness of the mouth resulting from decreased secretion of saliva

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