A

acetate
(noun)
a salt of acetic acid

acetic acid
(noun)
used as a reagent, a caustic; sometimes taken internally

acetylcholine
(noun)
neurotransmitter that functions at cholinergic chemical synapses, found in the brain and peripheral nervous system. It is the neurotransmitter at neuromuscular junctions

acetylcholine receptor
(noun)
ion channel that opens in response to acetylcholine binding, thereby converting a chemical signal into an electrical one

actin
(noun)
one of the two proteins in muscle fiber, the other is called myosin

actomyosin
(noun)
the combination of actin and myosin in a muscle. Upon muscle stimulation, these substances shorten without changing their volume and thus cause contraction of muscle

adrenal
used in reference to the adrenal gland or its secretions

afferent
carrying impulses toward a center, as when a sensory nerve carries a message toward the brain. Opposite of efferent

afferent nerve
(noun)
nerve that transmits impulses from the peripheral toward the central nervous system

agglutination
(noun)
1. Clumping together, as of blood corpuscles when incompatible bloods are mixed
2. Adhesion of surfaces of a wound.

alopecia
(noun)
absence or loss of hair, especially of the head

amine
(noun)
any one of a group of nitrogen-containing organic compounds that are formed when one or more of the hydrogens of ammonia have been replaced by one or more hydrocarbon radicals

amorphous
without definite structure

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
(noun)
a rare progressive degenerative fatal disease affecting the spinal cord, usually beginning in middle age, and characterized especially by increasing and spreading muscular weakness
-- called also Lou Gehrig's disease. He was a well-known athlete whose life ended because of this disease

analysis of variance (ANOVA)
(noun)
a statistical technique for defining and segregating the cause of variability affecting a set of observations. This technique provides a basis for analyzing the effects of various treatments or variables on the subjects or patients being investigated

anemia
(noun)
The condition of having less than the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal quantity of hemoglobin in the blood. The oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is, therefore, decreased.

Persons with anemia may feel tired and fatigue easily, appear pale, develop palpitations and become unusually short of breath. Children with chronic anemia are prone to infections and learning problems.

Anemia has four basic causes. One or more of these causes must be operating to produce anemia:

· Hemorrhage -- bleeding
· Hemolysis -- excessive destruction of red blood cells
· Underproduction of red blood cells
· Not enough normal hemoglobin

Women are more likely than men to have anemia because of the loss of blood each month through menstruation. Iron deficiency anemia is common and in adults is most often due to chronic blood loss. This can be from menstruation or from small amounts of repeated bleeding (which can be very subtle) and in children is due mainly to not enough iron in the diet. Anemia is also often due to gastrointestinal bleeding caused by medications including such very common drugs as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). There are many forms of anemia, some of them common, others rare.

ankle clonus
(noun)
repetitive extension-flexion movement of the ankle, associated with increased muscle tonus.
Commonly a symptom of corticospinal (pertaining to cerebral cortex and spinal cord) disease

anterior horn cell
(noun)
a large nerve cell in the anterior horn of the spinal cord. The axon of a cell is an efferent fiber innervating a muscle

antibody
(noun)
any of a large number of proteins of high molecular weight that are produced normally by specialized B cells after stimulation by an antigen and act specifically against the antigen in an immune response, that are produced abnormally by some cancer cells, and that typically consist of four subunits including two heavy chains and two light chains -- called also immunoglobulin

antigen
(noun)
a usually protein or carbohydrate substance (as a toxin or enzyme) capable of stimulating an immune response

antinuclear antibodies
(noun)
antibodies that react with the nuclei of cells. Found in patients with various collagen diseases

antioxidant
(noun)
agent that prevents or inhibits oxidation

antiphospholipid syndrome
(noun)
this syndrome includes thromboembolism (particularly involving CNS vasculature), thrombocytopenia, and fetal loss in association with autoimmune antibodies directed against phospholipid membrane constituents. In vitro clotting tests are prolonged

apoptosis
(noun)
programmed cell death

arrhythmia
(noun)
irregularity or loss of rhythm, especially of the heart

arthralgia
(noun)
neuralgic pain in one or more joints

assay
(noun)
1. examination and determination as to characteristics
2. analysis to determine the presence, absence, or quantity of one or more components

asymmetry
(noun)
uneven appearance

asymptomatic
(adjective)
presenting no symptoms of disease

ataxic gait
(noun)
gait characterized by staggering and unsteadiness

atherogenesis
(noun)
the formation of atheromata in the walls of arteries

atheromata
(noun, pl. of atheroma)
fatty degeneration or thickening of the walls of the larger arteries occurring in atherosclerosis

atherosclerosis
(noun)
a type of arteriosclerosis (thickening and loss of elasticity of arterial walls). It is a slowly progressive disease of arteries. There are two major types of atherosclerotic plaques: one is characterized by prominent proliferation of cells with small accumulation of lipids; the other consists mostly of intracellular and extracellular lipid accumulation and a small amount of cellular proliferation

atrophy
(noun)
1. decrease in size or wasting away of a body part or tissue
2. a wasting away or progressive decline : DEGENERATION

atypical
(adjective)
not typical

autoantibody
(noun)
an antibody active against a tissue constituent of the individual producing it

autoantigen
(noun)
a substance that stimulates the production of antibodies in the individual from which it was derived

autoimmune
(adjective)
relating to, or caused by autoantibodies or lymphocytes that attack molecules, cells, or tissues of the organism producing them

Autonomic nervous system
(noun)
the part of the nervous system that is concerned with control of involuntary bodily functions. It regulates the functions of glands, esp. the salivary, gastric, and sweat glands, and the adrenal medulla; smooth muscle and the heart. It may act on these tissues to slow activity or to initiate their function depending on whether the parasympathetic or sympathetic nerves are stimulated

axon
(noun)
a process of a neuron that conducts impulses away from the cell body. Most end in synapses in the CNS or ganglia in effector organs

B

Babinski's sign
(noun)
loss of or diminished Achilles tendon reflex in sciatica

basal
(noun)
situated near the base

basal ganglia
(noun)
four masses of gray matter deeply embedded in the cerebral hemispheres

basement membrane (cell lamina)
(noun)
thin mat of extracellular matrix that separates epithelial sheets, and many types of cells such as muscle cells or fat cells, from connective tissue. Sometimes called a basal lamina

B cell
(noun)
any of the lymphocytes that have antibody molecules on the surface and comprise the antibody-secreting plasma cells when mature -- called also B lymphocyte

Betz cells
(noun)
a form of giant pyramidal cell in the cortical motor area of the brain. The axons of these cells are in the pyramidal tract

biopsy
(noun)
the removal and examination of tissue, cells, or fluids from the living body

biotin
(noun)
low- molecular- weight compound used as a coenzyme. Useful technically as a covalent label for proteins, allowing them to be detected by the egg protein avidin, which binds extremely tightly to biotin

bovine
pertaining to cattle

breast tissue atrophy
(noun)
shrinking and thinning of breast tissue due to the pressure of a breast implant

buffer
(noun)
1. a substance, esp. a salt of the blood, tending to preserve original hydrogen-ion concentration of its solution, upon adding an acid or a base
2. a substance tending to offset reaction of an agent administered in conjugation with it

bulbar
pertaining to or shaped like a bulb

bulbar palsy
(noun)
caused by degeneration of the of the nuclear cells of the lower cranial nerves. This causes progressive muscular paralysis

bursitis
(noun)
inflammation of a bursa (sac or cavity found in connective tissue containing fluid that reduces friction between structures usually in the vicinity of joints) esp. those between bony prominences and muscle or tendon

C

calcification/ calcium deposits
(noun)
hard lumps that may form under the skin around the implant

candidiasis
(noun)
infection with or disease caused by a candida

capsular contracture
(noun)
a complication that occurs when the scar tissue that naturally forms around an implant begins to squeeze the implant. The Baker grading includes 4 categories to describe the degree of contracture:
Grade I- The breast is soft and looks natural
Grade II- The breast is slightly firm but appears normal
Grade III- The breast is firm and is visibly distorted
Grade IV- The breast is hard, painful, and is visibly distorted
Surgery is required to correct some cases of capsular contracture

capsulectomy
(noun)
surgical removal of capsule (the scar tissue)

capsulotomy
(noun)
there are two types of capsulotomy, the open capsulotomy and the closed capsulotomy:

• A closed capsulotomy is a technique used to break the capsule (the scar tissue) by massaging or compressing the outside of the breast. This technique is contraindicated due to the fact that it can cause deflation/rupture.
• An open capsulotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision or an opening in the capsule (the scar tissue)

carcinogen
(noun)
a substance or agent producing or inciting cancer

carcinoma
(noun)
a malignant tumor

carcinosarcoma
(noun)
a malignant tumor combining elements of carcinoma and sarcoma

carpal tunnel syndrome
(noun)
soreness, tenderness, and weakness of the muscles of the thumb caused by pressure on the median nerve at the point at which it goes through the carpal tunnel of the wrist. Treatment: surgical relief of tension if conservative therapy fails

catalyst
(noun)
a substance that speeds up the rate of a chemical reaction without itself being permanently altered in the reaction. Catalysts are effective in small quantities and are not used up in the reaction

catecholamines
(noun)
biologically active amines, epinephrine and norepinephrine, derived from the amino acid tyrosine. They have an effect on the nervous system, cardiovascular system, metabolic rate, smooth muscle, and temperature

cellular
(noun)
pertaining to , composed of, or derived from cells

Central nervous system
(noun)
brain and spinal cord, with their nerves and end-organs that control voluntary acts. Includes parts of the brain governing consciousness and mental activities; parts of brain, spinal cord, and their sensory and motor nerve fibers controlling skeletal muscles; and end organs of the body wall
COMP: Nerve tissue that forms the brain, spinal cord, and the nerves from both. Tissue is made up of gray and white matter. Gray matter is composed of cells of nervous tissue, while the white matter is composed of nerve fibers from the cells. White matter in the brain and cord carries messages or impulses from the body or outside world to the cells or gray matter

cerebral
pertaining to the cerebrum

cerebrum
(noun)
the largest part of the brain consisting of but not limited to the following: two hemispheres and two cavities, the lateral ventricles (right and left) , and the rostral part of the third ventricle. The cerebrum is concerned with sensations or interpretation of sensory impulses and all voluntary muscular activities. It is the seat of consciousness and the center of mental faculties such as memory, learning, reasoning, judgement, intelligence, and emotions

chelate
(verb)
1. in toxicology, to use a compound to enclose or grasp a toxic substance and make it nonactive and thus non-toxic
2. in chemistry, to combine with a ring structure much as a claw would grasp an object, said of the ion of a metal

chelating agent
(noun)
a drug that is used to chelate

chemotactic
pertaining to the attraction and repulsion of living protoplasm to a chemical stimulus

chi-square
(noun)
a statistical test to determine the similarity of the number of occurrences being investigated to the expected occurrences.

cholinergic
1. nerve endings that liberate acetylcholine
2. an agent that produces the effect of acetylcholine

chromogen
(noun)
1 a : a precursor of a biochemical pigment b : a compound not itself a dye but containing a chromophore and so capable of becoming one
2 : a pigment-producing microorganism

Chronic fatigue syndrome
(noun)
unexplained, persistent, or relapsing severe fatigue that is new or had a definite onset, is not due ongoing exertion, is not substantially alleviated by rest, and substantially reduces occupational, educational, social, or personal activities. At least four of the following are present for > 6 months:
1. Impaired short term memory or concentration (self -reported) severe enough to substantially reduce occupational, educational, social, or personal activities
2. Sore throat
3. Tender cervical or axillary lymph nodes
4. Muscle pain
5. Multijoint pain without joint swelling or tenderness
6. Headaches of a new type, pattern, or severity
7. Unrefreshing sleep
8. Postexertional malaise lasting > 24h

collagen
(noun)
fibrous protein rich in glycine and proline that is a major component of the extracellular matrix and connective tissues. Exists in many forms: type1, the most common is found in skin, tendon, bone, and may be found in the scar tissue around an implant; type II is found in cartilage; type IV found in basal lamina. For many implant recipients, antibodies to type II collagen may be secondary to the response to type I collagen due to the sequence homology between the two collagen types. Antibodies to many collagen types frequently occur together

collagen vascular diseases
(noun)
a group of diseases of the blood vessels that share anatomical and pathological features. The etiology of these diseases is unknown; thus they are grouped together on the basis of common clinical signs and symptoms. Generalized inflammation of connective tissue and blood vessels is usually seen, and in some cases fibrinoid deposition in connective tissue fibers and blood vessels is present

complement
(noun)
system of serum proteins activated by antibody-antigen complexes or by microorganisms. Helps eliminate pathogenic microorganisms by directly causing their lysis or by promoting their phagocytosis

connective tissue
(noun)
any supporting tissue that lies between other tissues and consists of cells embedded in a large amount of extracellular matrix. Includes bone, cartilage, and loose connective tissue

control
1. to regulate or maintain
2. a standard against which observations or conclusions may be checked in order to establish their validity, as a control animal, one that has not been exposed to the treatment or condition being studied in the other animals

covalent bond
(noun)
stable chemical link between two atoms produced by sharing one or more pairs of electrons

creatine phosphokinase (CPK)
(noun)
enzyme present in skeletal muscle and cardiac muscle and the brain. Serum CPK is increased 10-25 times in the first few hours following a heart attack. The level returns to normal within 2-4 days. CPK serum levels are also increased in progressive muscular dystrophy and following trauma to skeletal muscle. It is not elevated in liver disease or pulmonary infarction.

CREST syndrome
(noun)
localized scleroderma. CREST is an acronym for the following:

• Calcinosis
• Raynaud's phenomenon
• Esophageal/oesophageal dysmotility
• Sclerodactyly
• Telangiectasia

crystalline
(noun)
resembling crystal

cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
( noun)
any of several lymphomas (as mycosis fungoides or Sezary syndrome) that are marked by clusters of malignant helper T cells in the epidermis causing skin lesions and eruptions which typically progress to tumors and may spread to lymph nodes and internal organs

cyclophosphamide
(noun)
an immunosuppressive and antineoplastic agent ,C7H15Cl2N2O2P, used especially in the treatment of lymphomas and some leukemias

cytokine
(noun)
extracellular signaling protein or peptide that acts as a local mediator in cell-cell communication

cytotoxic
(adjective)
1. of or relating to a cytotoxin
2. toxic to cells

D

debridement
(noun)
the surgical removal of lacerated, devitalized, or contaminated tissue

deflation/rupture
(noun)
due to a tear or hole in the shell of an implant. This allows the filler material to escape from the shell. This may require a second operation to replace the implant

dehiscence
a bursting open as of a wound, esp. a surgical wound

denervation
(noun)
removal of nerve supply to a tissue, usually by cutting or crushing the axons

densitometry
(noun)
determination of the density of a substance

dermal
(adjective)
1 : of or relating to skin and especially to the dermis : CUTANEOUS
2 : EPIDERMAL

dermatomyositis
(noun)
a disease of connective tissue characterized by swelling, dermatitis and inflammation of muscle tissue. Symptoms include fever, malaise, difficulty swallowing, general weakness, muscle weakness (pelvic and shoulder girdle muscles) and skin and mucosal lesions

dialysis
(noun)
1. the passage of a solute through a membrane
2. process of diffusing blood across a semipermeable membrane to remove toxic materials and to maintain fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance in cases of impaired kidney function or absence of the kidneys

dimer
(noun)
in chemistry, the combination of two identical molecules to form a single compound.

diplopia
(noun)
double vision. May be monocular (double vision with one eye).

disquisition
(noun)
a formal inquiry into or discussion of a subject

disseminated
(transitive verb)
dispersed, scattered, distributed over a considerable area

dynamometer
(noun)
a device for measuring muscular strength

dysarthria
(noun)
difficult and defective speech due to impairment of the tongue or other muscles essential to speech

dysdiadochokinesia
(noun)
inability to quickly substitute antagonistic motor impulses to produce antagonistic muscular movements

dysesthesia
(noun)
1. sensations on the skin, such as the pricks of pins and needles, or of crawling
2. impairment of a sensitivity, esp. of touch
3. painfulness of any sensation that isn’t normally painful

dysfunction
(noun)
disturbance, impairment or abnormality of the functioning of an organ

dysphagia
(noun)
inability to swallow or difficulty in swallowing

dyspnea
(noun)
air hunger resulting from in labored or difficult breathing, sometimes accompanied by pain

E

edema/oedema
(noun)
a localized or generalized condition in which the body tissues contain an excessive amount of tissue fluid

efferent
carrying away from a central organ or section, as efferent nerves, which conduct impulses from the brain or spinal cord to the periphery

efferent nerves
(noun)
nerves that carry impulses having the following effects: motor, causing contraction of the muscles; secretory, causing glands to secrete; and and inhibitory, causing some organs to become quiescent. SYN: motor nerves

elastomer
(noun)
any of various elastic substances resembling rubber

electroencephalogram (EEG)
(noun)
a tracing on an electroencephalograph(an instrument for recording electrical activity of the brain)

electromyogram
(noun)
a graphic record of the contraction of a muscle as a result of electrical stimulation

electrophoresis
(noun)
the movement of charged colloidal particles through the medium in which they are dispersed as a result of changes in electrical potential. Electrophoretic methods are used in the analysis of protein mixtures as protein particles move with different velocities dependent principally on the number of charges carried by the particle

en bloc
in surgery, to remove as a whole or as a lump

encapsulation
(noun)
1. enclosure in a sheath not normal to the part
2. the process of the formation of a capsule or sheath about a structure

encephalomyelitis
(noun)
an acute inflammation of the brain and spinal cord

endogenous
produced or arising from within a cell or organism

enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA)
(noun)
a rapid enzyme immunoassay method in which either an antibody or an antigen can be coupled to an enzyme. The resulting complex will retain both immunological and enzymatic activity. Utilized for detection of either an antigen or an antibody. These assays are quite sensitive and specific

episcleritis
(noun)
inflammation of the subconjunctival layers of the sclera

epithelial cells
(noun)
cells that are irregular in shape, having a single nucleus. Frequently 2 or 3 are joined together

erosion
(noun)
an eating away, destruction of the surface of a tissue, material or structure

erythema
(noun)
a form of macula (small spot or colored area) showing diffused redness over the skin

erythrocytes (red blood cells)
(noun)
small hemoglobin-containing blood cells that transport oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from tissues

ester
(noun)
molecule formed by the condensation reaction of an alcohol group with an acidic group

evoked response
(noun)
method of testing the function of certain sense organs

exogenous
(noun)
originating outside an organ or part

extracellular matrix
(noun)
complex network of polysaccharides and proteins secreted by cells. Serves as a structural element in tissues and also influences their development and physiology

extrusion
(noun)
migration of an implant through the skin

F

fasciculations
(noun)
a small local contraction of muscles, visible through the skin, representing a spontaneous discharge of a number of fibers innervated by a single motor nerve filament

fasciitis
(noun)
inflammation of the fascia (a lining tissue under the skin that covers a surface of underlying tissues)

fibroblasts
(noun)
common cell type found in connective tissue. Secretes an extracellular matrix rich in collagen and other extracellular matrix macromolecules. Migrates and proliferates readily in wounded tissue and in tissue culture

fibrocystic disease
(noun)
a noncancerous breast condition in which multiple cysts or lumpy areas develop in one or both breasts. It can be accompanied by discomfort or pain that fluctuates with the menstrual cycle. May be exacerbated by caffeine use. Large cysts can be treated by aspiration of the fluid they contain

fibromyalgia
(noun)
a painful rheumatic condition of uncertain cause that is characterized by diffuse or localized pain, tenderness, and stiffness of skeletal muscles and associated connective tissue and that is usually accompanied by fatigue

fibromyositis
(noun)
a group of common nonspecific illnesses characterized by pain, tenderness, and stiffness of joints, capsules, and adjacent structures fibrosarcoma
(noun)
a sarcoma of relatively low malignancy consisting chiefly of spindle-shaped cells that tend to form collagenous fibrils

Fibrosis
(noun)
a condition marked by increase of interstitial fibrous tissue : fibrous degeneration

Flow cytometry
(noun)
a technique for identifying and sorting cells and their components (as DNA) by staining with a fluorescent dye and detecting the fluorescence usually by laser beam illumination

Freund's adjuvant
(noun)
water-in-oil emulsion used experimentally for stimulating a vigorous immune response to an antigen (that is in the aqueous phase). Complete Freund's adjuvant contains heat-killed tubercle bacilli; these are omitted from Freund's incomplete adjuvant. Theoretically, any species could be used, but the mouse is the preferred recipient because of its convenience, availability and rapid breeding

G

gadolinium
(noun)
a magnetic metallic element of the rare-earth group

galactorrhea
(noun)
lactation occurring in women who are not breast feeding. Inappropriate breast milk production can occur after implantation. Medicine or explantation may be necessary to stop breast milk production. In other cases it may spontaneously resolve

gamma globulin
(noun)
1(a). a protein fraction of blood rich in antibodies (b). a sterile solution of gamma globulin from pooled human blood administered especially for passive immunity against measles, German measles, infectious hepatitis, or poliomyelitis
2. any of numerous globulins of blood plasma or serum that have less electrophoretic mobility at alkaline pH than serum albumins, alpha globulins, or beta globulins and that include most antibodies

gammopathy
(noun)
a disorder characterized by a disturbance in the body's synthesis of antibodies ganglion
(noun)
1. a mass of nervous tissue composed of nerve-cell bodies and lying outside the brain or spinal cord
2. cystic tumors developing on a tendon or aponeurosis; sometimes occur on the back of the wrist

ganglioside
(noun)
a particular class of glycosphingolipid present in nerve tissue and the spleen

gangrene
(noun)
1. local death of soft tissues due to loss of blood supply
2. pervasive decay or corruption : ROT

gel phenomenon
(noun)
pain and stiffness associated with degenerative arthritis, but the stiffness eases after a few minutes of movement

giant cell
(noun)
cell of large size with several nuclei, appearing to be made up of many cells, but not clearly outlined. Found in both kinds of marrow, esp. in red marrow and spleen. Also found in tissues that are healing, around foreign bodies, and in the inflammatory reaction to tuberculosis. Synonym:megakaryocyte

gliosis
(noun)
proliferation of neuroglial tissue( acts as connective or supporting tissue and is important in the reaction of the nervous tissue to injury or infection) in the central nervous system

glycoprotein
(noun)
a compound consisting of a carbohydrate and protein

glycosphingolipids
(noun)
a group of carbohydrate-containing fatty acid derivatives of ceramide (lipids that do not contain glycerol). Three classes of these lipids are cerebrosides, gangliosides, and ceramide oligosaccharides. When the enzymes essential to the metabolism of these compounds are absent, the glycosphingolipids accumulate, particularly in the nervous system. Death is the usual outcome

granulocytes
(noun)
category of white blood cell distinguished by conspicuous cytoplasmic granules. Includes neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils

granuloma
(noun)
a lump that forms when certain body cells surround a foreign material (e.g. silicone)

growth factors
(noun)
extracellular polypeptides signaling molecules that stimulate cells to grow or proliferate. Most growth factors have other actions besides the induction of cell growth or proliferation

H

hematocrit
(noun)
1. centrifuge for separating solids from plasma in the blood
2. volume of erythrocytes packed by centrifugation in a given volume of blood.
The hematocrit is expressed as the percentage of total blood volume that consists of erythrocytes or as the volume in cubic centimeters of erythrocytes packed by centrifugation of blood.

hematoma
(noun)
refers to an area of massive bleeding into the skin and underlying tissues

hematopoietic
(noun)
1. pertaining to the production and development of blood cells
2. a substance that assists in or stimulates the production of red blood cells

histiocyte
(noun)
a cell present in all loose connective tissues. It may exibit active ameboid movement and show marked phagocytotic activity. Easily ingests trypan blue, colloidal carbon, and other foreign substances of a particulate nature. Histiocytes belong to the reticuloendothelial system

histones
(noun)
one of a group of small abundant proteins, rich in arginine and lysine, that are associated with DNA in chromosomes

human adjuvant disease (HAD)
(noun)
an autoimmune condition associated with foreign materials in contact with the human body. HAD means the disease produced by the immune stimulation is caused by the effect of' foreign material(s). Therefore, this definition excludes all naturally occurring disorders merely worsened by the immune stimulation of the foreign material. Such disorders should be classified as "worsened by adjuvant activity of." For example system lupus that is believed to be worsened by adjuvant activity of' polyurethane and free siloxane in tissue should be classified as system lupus worsened by those adjuvants-and not as HAD

humoral
pertaining to body fluids or substances contained in them

hypergammaglobulinemia
(noun)
excess amount of gamma globulin in the blood

hyperreflexia
(noun)
increased action of the reflexes

I

iatrogenic injury
(noun)
damage to an implant and/or surrounding tissue caused by a surgical instrument during a procedure

immunoassay
(noun)
measuring the protein and protein-bound molecules that are concerned with the reaction of an antigen with its specific antibody

immunofluorescence
(noun)
the use of fluorescein-stained or fluorescein-labeled antibodies to locate antigen in tissues. The antibodies combine with the specific antigen for that antibody. Evidence of the presence of the antigen then can be determined by examining the preparation with a microscope equipped with a fluorescent light. The typical fluorescent light reaction will be present if the antigen is in the preparation

immunogenicity
(noun)
the capacity to stimulate the formation of antibodies

immunoglobulin
(noun)
a specific protein substance that is produced by plasma cells to aid in fighting infection

Immunoglobulin A
(noun)
major class of immunoglobulin of external secretions in mammals, also found in serum and body fluids such as tears and saliva and in the respiratory, reproductive, urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. Immunoglobulin A protects the body's mucosal surfaces from infection and in secretions, it is found as a dimer (400 kD) joined by a short J chain and linked to a secretory portion or transport piece. In serum found as a monomer (170 kD).
Immunoglobulin A is the main mechanism for providing local immunity against infections in the gut or respiratory tract and may act by reducing the binding between an immunoglobulin A coated micro organism and a host epithelial cell. Present in human colostrum but not transferred across the placenta. Heavy chains are present in IgA

IgE
(noun)
a gamma globulin produced by cells of the lining of the respiratory and intestinal tract. IgE is important in forming reagin, q.v., antibodies. About 50% of patients with allergic diseased have increased IgE levels

Immunoglobulin G
(noun)
composed of two identical light and two identical heavy chains, the constant region sequence of the heavy chains being of the type. The molecule can be described in another way as being composed of two Fab and an Fc fragment. The Fabs include the antigen combining sites, the Fc region consists of the remaining constant sequence domains of the heavy chains and contains cell binding and complement binding sites. Immunoglobulin Gs act on pathogens by agglutinating them, by opsonizing them, by activating complement mediated reactions against cellular pathogens and by neutralizing toxins. They can pass across the placenta to the fetus as maternal antibodies, unlike other Ig classes. In humans four main subclasses are known, IgG2 differs from the rest in not being transferred across the placenta and IgG4 does not fix complement. Immunoglobulin G is present at 8-16 mg/ml in serum. IgG is the major antibody for antitoxins, viruses, and bacteria

IgM
(noun)
a globulin formed in almost every immune response during the early period of the reaction

immunophenotype
(noun)
the immunochemical and immunohistological characteristics of a cell or group of cells immunophenotyping
(noun)
the process of determining the immunophenotype of a cell or group of cells

immunostimulant
(noun)
an agent that will cause antibody formation

incision
(noun)
a cut made during surgery into the body tissue

incubation
1. interval between exposure to infection and the appearance of the first symptom
2. period of culture development

induration
(noun)
1. the act of hardening
2. an area of hardened tissue

Infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the breast:
(noun)
One of several recognized specific patterns of cancer of the breast. It is so named because it begins in the cells forming the ducts of the breast. It is the most common form of breast cancer, comprising 65-85% of all cases.

On a mammogram, invasive ductal carcinoma is usually visualized as a mass with fine spikes radiating from the edges (spiculation). It may also appear as a smooth edged lump in the breast.

On physical examination, this lump usually feels much harder or firmer than benign causes of lumps in the breast.

On microscopic examination, the cancerous cells invade and replace the normal breast tissue.

In situ
(adverb or adjective)
: in the natural or original position

inter-
prefix meaning between

interleukin
(noun)
secreted peptide or protein that mainly mediates local interactions between white blood cells

intra-
prefix meaning within

intrinsic
(adjective)
1. belonging to the essential nature or constitution of a thing
2. being or relating to a semiconductor in which the concentration of charge carriers is characteristic of the material itself instead of the content of any impurities it contains
3. originating or due to causes within a body, organ, or part
4. situated entirely within or pertaining exclusively to a part

invasive
( adjective)
1 : tending to spread ; especially : tending to invade healthy tissue
2 : involving entry into the living body (as by incision or by insertion of an instrument)

in vitro
cells growing in culture

in vivo
cells growing in an organism

involuntary muscle
(noun)
muscle not under conscious control; mainly smooth muscle

ion channel
(noun)
transmembrane protein complex that forms a water-filled channel across the lipid bilayer through which specific inorganic ions can diffuse down their electrochemical gradients

ischemia
(noun)
localized tissue anemia due to obstruction of the inflow of arterial blood

isomers
(noun)
molecules that are formed from the same atoms in the same chemical linkages but have different three- dimensional- conformations

J

K

keratin
(noun)
a very tough protein substance found in the hair, nails, and horny tissue

keratinocytes
(noun)
any one of the cells in the skin that synthesizes keratin

L

latency
1. the time between onset of a stimulus and peak of the ensuing action potential
2. of an infection, a period in which the infection is present in the host without producing overt symptoms

Lhermitte's sign
(noun)
the symptom (rather than a sign) of a pain resembling a sudden electric shock throughout the body produced by flexing the neck. ETIOL: Trauma to the spinal cord, multiple sclerosis, cervical cord tumor, or cervical spondylosis

ligand
(noun)
any molecule that binds to a specific site on a protein or other molecule

light chain
(noun)
one of the smaller polypeptides of a multisubunit protein such as myosin or immunoglobulin

lipolysis
(noun)
the hydrolysis of fat

livedo reticularis
(noun)
semipermanent bluish mottling of the skin of the legs and hands. Aggravated by exposure to cold

local
(adjective)
1. not general or widespread
2. involving or affecting only a restricted part of the organism

local complication
(noun)
a complication occurring in the area surrounding an implant

lymphadenopathy
(noun)
abnormal enlargement of the lymph nodes

lymphocyte
(noun)
any of the colorless weakly motile cells originating from stem cells and differentiating in lymphoid tissue (as of the thymus or bone marrow) that are the typical cellular elements of lymph , include the cellular mediators of immunity, and constitute 20 to 30 percent of the white blood cells of normal human blood

lymphoma
(noun)
a usually malignant tumor of lymphoid tissue

Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma
(noun)
B-cell neoplasm that usually secretes monoclonal IgM, often in amounts sufficient to cause a hyperviscositysyndrome known as Waldenström's macroglobulinemia

lysis
rupture of a cell's plasma , leading to the release of cytoplasm and the death of the cell membrane

lysosome
(noun)
a saclike cellular organelle that contains various hydrolytic enzymes

M

macromolecule
(noun)
a very large molecule

macrophage
(noun)
a phagocytic tissue cell of the reticuloendothelial system that may be fixed or freely motile, is derived from a monocyte, and functions in the protection of the body against infection and noxious substances

major histocompatibility complex (MHC)
(noun)
complex of genes coding for a large family of cell-surface proteins that bind peptide fragments of foreign proteins and present them to T lymphocytes to induce an immune response

mammogram
(noun)
a photograph of the breasts made by X-rays

mammography
(noun)
X-ray exam of the breasts for early detection of tumors

mammoplasty
(noun)
plastic surgery performed on the breast

mast cells
(noun)
widely distributed tissue cell that releases histamine as part of an inflammatory response

mastectomy
(noun)
surgical procedure used for partial or complete removal of the breast

mastopathy
(noun)
a disorder of the breast ; especially : a painful disorder of the breast

mastopexy
(noun)
a surgical procedure used to lift and reshape the breast

mean
(noun)
the average or central tendency of a set of values. In statistics, a number derived from a series of other numbers by a prescribed method of computation

meninges
(noun)
1. membranes
2. three membranes investing the spinal cord and brain: the dura matter (external),the arachnoid (middle), and the pia mater (internal)

menometrorrhagia
(noun)
irregular or excessive menstrual bleeding

metaplasia
(noun)
1 : transformation of one tissue into another
2 : abnormal replacement of cells of one type by cells of another

microsome
(noun)
particles derived from the endoplasmic reticulum(structures essential to the metabolic functions of cells) of cell nuclei. Obtained when cells are broken up by centrifuging with a force 100,000 times that of gravity. They can be seen only through the use of electron microscopy

mitochondria
(noun)
slender microscopic filaments or rods that are the source of energy in the cell and are involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism

Mixed connective tissue disease
(noun)
a syndrome with overlapping clinical features of systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, polymyositis, and Raynaud's phenomenon. The disease is differentially characterized by high serum titres of antibodies to ribonuclease-sensitive extractable (saline soluble) nuclear antigen (nuclear ribonucleoprotein) and a speckled epidermal nuclear staining pattern on direct immunofluorescence. A more modern term for this condition is the undifferentiated connective tissues disease

Monoclonal gammopathy
(noun)
any of various disorders marked by proliferation of a single clone of antibody-producing lymphoid cells resulting in an abnormal increase of a monoclonal antibody in the blood serum and urine and that include both benign or asymptomatic conditions and neoplastic conditions (as multiple myeloma and Waldenström's macroglobulinemia)

monomer
(noun)
any molecule that can be bound to similar molecules to form a polymer

motor fibers
(noun)
axons of motor neurons that innervate skeletal muscle

motor nerve
(noun)
a nerve composed of motor fibers

motor neuron
(noun)
1. a neuron that innervates muscle tissue
2. a neuron that carries impulses initiating muscle contraction

Motor neuron disease
(noun)
one of several types of disease of the motor neurons: progressive muscle atrophy, progressive bulbar palsy, and amyotropic lateral sclerosis. These diseases are characterized by degeneration of anterior horn cells of the spinal cord, the motor cranial nuclei, and the pyramidal tracts

motor unit
(noun)
a single motor neuron and the muscle fibers its branches innervates

Multiple myeloma
(noun)
a disease of bone marrow that is characterized by the presence of numerous myelomas in various bones of the body -- called also myelomatosis

multiple sclerosis
(noun)
a demyelinating disease marked by patches of hardened tissue in the brain or the spinal cord and associated especially with partial or complete paralysis and jerking muscle tremor

myalgia
(noun)
pain in one or more muscles

Mycobacterium fortuitum
(noun)
an infection that has been involved in a number of serious cases of penetrating wounds to the skin and of contaminated materials, such as breast implants. Treatment is extensive debridement and removal of the foreign material. Medications, including clarithromycin, sulfamethoxazole, doxycycline, cefoxitin, and amikacin may be given for 3-6 months

myelin
(noun)
1. a fatlike substance forming a sheath round the axons of certain nerves. Composed of lipids and protein
2. a complex lipoid substance present in the brain in small quantities

myeloma
(noun)
a primary tumor of the bone marrow formed of any one of the bone marrow cells (as myelocytes or plasma cells) and usually involving several different bones at the same time

myosin
(noun)
a fibrous globulin of muscle that can split ATP and that reacts with actin to form actomyosin

myositis
(noun)
1. muscle soreness
2. inflammation of a voluntary muscle

N

necrosis
(noun)
formation of dead tissue around an implant

Neoplasm
(noun)
A tumor. An abnormal growth of tissue.

nephelometer
(noun)
an apparatus for measuring the turbidity of a fluid. It may also be used in estimating the degree of contamination of air by particulate matter

nephelometry
(noun)
the utilization of a nephrometer

neurogenic
(adjective)
1. originating in or controlled by nervous tissue
2. induced or modified by nervous factors; especially : disordered because of abnormally altered neural relations
3. arising from or caused by the nervous system.

neuroma
(noun)
former term for any type of tumor composed of nerve cells. New growth of nerves is now categorized with respect to the specific part of the nerve involved

neuromuscular
concerning both nerves and muscles

neuropathy
(noun)
an abnormal and usually degenerative state of the nervous system or nerves

neurotoxic
poisonous to the nerve cells

neurotransmitters
(noun)
small signaling molecules secreted by presynaptic nerve cells at chemical synapses to relay the signal to the postsynaptic cell Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
(noun)
Malignant tumors that arise in the lymphatic system. There are several subtypes of cancer classified as non-Hodgkin lymphoma. All originate in and spread via the lymphatic system. Symptoms depend on the location of the tumor, but can include swollen, but not painful, lymph nodes; gastric distress; skin problems; night sweats; unexplained weight loss; itching; and fever. Diagnosis is by biopsy. Treatment may be chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell rescue, or medication, depending on the age of the patient and type of tumor. Abbreviated NHL.

nucleus
(noun)
the vital body in the protoplasm of a cell and is the essential agent in growth, metabolism, reproduction, and transmission characteristics of a cell

O

oligoclonal band
(noun)
small discrete bands in the gamma globulin region of the spinal fluid electrophoresis, indicating local central nervous system production of IgG; bands are frequently seen in patients with multiple sclerosis but can also be found in other diseases of the central nervous system including syphilis, sarcoidosis, and chronic infection or inflammation.

oligomer
(noun)
a polymer or polymer intermediate containing relatively few structural units

opsonize
to facilitate phagocytosis (ingestion and digestion of bacteria and particles by phagocytes)

optic neuritis
(noun)
inflammation of the optic nerve

osteoarthritis
(noun)
chronic disease involving the joints, esp. those bearing weight. Characterized by destruction of articular cartilage, overgrowth of bone with lipping (growth of bony tissue beyond the joint margin in degenerative joint disease) and spur formation, and impaired function.

oxidant
(noun)
in oxidation-reduction reactions, the acceptor of an electron

P

palapability
(noun)
capable of being felt or touched. The following may affect the degree of palpability of an implant: textured implants, subglandular placement, large implants, and the amount of skin available to cover the implant

panniculitis
(noun)
inflamed condition of a layer of fatty connective tissue in the anterior wall of the abdomen.
SYM: pain and tenderness and hypertrophy of tissue in parts where fat is thickest

papule
(noun)
red elevated area on the skin, solid, and circumscribed. Papules often precede vesicular or pustular formation

paraparesis
(noun)
partial paralysis affecting the lower limbs

Parasympathetic nervous system
(noun)
the craniosacral portion of the autonomic nervous system. Preganglionic fibers originate from nuclei in the midbrain, medulla, and sacral portion of the spinal cord. They pass through the 3rd, 7th, 9th, and 10th cranial nerves and the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th sacral nerves, and synapse with postganglionic neurons located in the autonomic (terminal) ganglia that lie in the walls of or near the organs innervated

paresthesia
(noun)
sensation of numbness, prickling, or tingling; heightened sensitivity

particulate
(noun)
made up of particles

peptides
(noun)
Any member of a class of compounds of low molecular weight which yield two or more amino acids on hydrolysis. Formed by loss of water from the nh2 and cooh groups of adjacent amino acids, they are known as di-, tri-, tetra- (etc.) peptides, depending on the number of amino acids in the molecule. Peptides form the constituent parts of proteins

peri-
prefix meaning around or about

periodontal disease
(noun)
any abnormality, inflammatory or degenerative, of the tissue around the tooth

periorbital edema
(noun)
edema surrounding the socket of the eye

peripheral nerve
(noun)
any nerve that connects the brain or spinal cord with peripheral receptors or effectors

Peripheral nervous system
(noun)
that portion of the nervous system outside the central nervous system. Included are the 12 pairs of cranial nerves, 31 pairs of spinal nerves, and their branches to the entire body. Also included are all sensory nerves, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves

Peripheral neuropathy
(noun)
a syndrome of sensory loss, muscle weakness and atrophy, decreased deep tendon reflexes, and vasomotor symptoms, alone or in any combination:
1. Mononeuropathy- Disease affecting a single nerve. The most common cause of localized injury to a single nerve is trauma. Toxic agents sometimes cause mononeuropathy. Direct tumor invasion is another cause of this disease.
2. Multiple mononeuropathyDisease that is usually secondary to collagen vascular disorders (i.e. polyarteritis nodosa, SLE, Sjogren's syndrome, RA)
3. Polyneuropathy-Disease that may result from toxic agents, an autoimmune reaction, metabolic disorders, nutritional deficiencies, and malignancy.

phagocytosis
(noun)
process by which material is eaten by a cell. Prominent in macrophages and neutrophils

phlebogram
(noun)
a figure of a vein or a record of its movements

phlebography
(noun)
the process of making a phlebogram

pinch meter
(noun)
a device for objectively measuring the strength of a hand pinch in grams or pounds

plasma
(noun)
acellular fluid in which blood cells are suspended. Serum obtained by defibrinating plasma (plasma derived serum) lacks platelet released factors and is less suitable to support the growth of cells in culture

plasmacytoma
(noun)
a plasma cell myeloma occurring in bone marrow

plasmin
(noun)
fibrinolytic enzyme derived from a protein called plasminogen found in many tissues and bodily fluids that prevents fibrin clot formation

platinosis
(noun)
cutaneous and and respiratory allergic reactions to complex salts of platinum

platinum
(noun)
heavy silver-white metal. It is used as a catalyst in the manufacturing process of breast implants

plexus
(noun)
a network of nerves or of blood or lymphatic vessels

Pneumonitis
(noun)
a disease characterized by inflammation of the lungs ; especially : PNEUMONIA

pneumothorax
(noun)
Accumulation of air or gas in the pleural cavity, occurring as a result of disease or injury, or sometimes induced to collapse the lung in the treatment of tuberculosis and other lung diseases.

polyarthritis
(noun)
inflammation of more than one joint

polymer
(noun)
a chemical compound or mixture of compounds formed by polymerization and consisting essentially of repeating structural units

polymerization
(noun)
1. a chemical reaction in which two or more molecules combine to form larger molecules that contain repeating structural units
2. reduplication of parts in an organism

polymyositis
(noun)
an inflammatory condition of muscle of unknown etiology. Muscle pain and weakness are common symptoms of this condition. When associated with a skin rash the condition is referred to as dermatomyositis.

polyurethane
(noun)
any of various polymers that contain NHCOO linkages and are used especially in flexible and rigid foams, elastomers, and resins

post-
a prefix meaning behind, after, or posterior

postganglionic
situated posterior or distal to a ganglion

pre-
prefix meaning before or in front of

preganglionic
situated in front of or anterior to a ganglion

primary biliary cirrhosis
(noun)
a rare progressive form of cirrhosis characterized by jaundice, enlarged liver, and pruritis (severe itching). The cause is unknown-- putatively autoimmune

Primer
(noun)
a molecule (as a short strand of RNA or DNA) whose presence is required for formation of another molecule (as a longer chain of DNA)

progressive muscular atrophy
(noun)
gradual advancing atrophy of groups of muscles due to spinal cord degeneration

prosthetic device
(noun)
an artificial device used to represent or replace a body part

proteinase (protease, proteolytic enzyme)
(noun)
enzyme such as trypsin that degrades proteins by hydrolyzing (cleaving with addition of water) some of their peptide bonds

proteoglycans
(noun)
molecule consisting of one or more glycosaminoglycan ( long, linear highly charged polysaccaride composed of a repeating pair of sugars, one of which is an amino sugar) chains attached to a core protein

protocol
(noun)
1. an original draft, minute, or record of a document or transaction
2. a detailed plan of a scientific or medical experiment, treatment, or procedure

protoplasm
(noun)
a thick, viscous colloidal substance that constitutes the physical basis of all living activities, exhibiting the properties of assimilation, growth, motility, secretion, irritability, and reproduction. It is a complex mixture of heterogenous substances surrounded by a chemically active membrane that regulates the interchange of substances with the surrounding medium

pulmonary function tests (PFT)
(noun)
a number of tests used to determine the ability of the lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide

pyramidal cell
(noun)
pyramid-shaped cell of cerebral cortex

pyramidal tract
(noun)
one of three descending tracts of the spinal cord. Consists of fibers arising from the giant pyramidal cells of Betz present in the motor area of the cerebral cortex

Q

R

Raynaud's phenomenon
(noun)
intermittent bilateral attacks of ischemia of the fingers or toes and sometimes of the ears or nose, marked by severe pallor and often accompanied by paresthesia and pain, it is brought on characteristically by cold or emotional stimuli and relieved by heat and is due to an underlying disease or anatomical abnormality.
When the condition is idiopathic or primary it is termed Raynaud's disease

reagent
(noun)
1. a substance involved in a chemical reaction
2. a substance used to detect the presence of another substance

resorption
(noun)
1. the loss of substance through physiologic or pathologic means
2. the action or process of resorbing something

rheumatoid arthritis
(noun)
a usually chronic disease of unknown cause that is characterized especially by pain, stiffness, inflammation, swelling, and sometimes destruction of joints

rheumatoid factor
(noun)
an immunoglobin present in serum of 50-95% of adults with rheumatoid arthritis. This factor, though not specific for rheumatoid arthritis, is quite helpful in diagnosing and investigating the disease

rippling/wrinkling
(noun)
indentations on the breast, often caused when the implant moves. It can be felt or seen through the skin

S

sarcoidosis
(noun)
a chronic disease of unknown cause that is characterized by the formation of nodules especially in the lymph nodes, lungs, bones, and skin

Sarcoma
(noun)
a malignant neoplasm arising in tissue of mesodermal origin (as connective tissue, bone, cartilage, or striated muscle) that spreads by extension into neighboring tissue or by way of the bloodstream

Schirmer's test
(noun)
use of a piece of absorbent paper placed so that it hangs out of the conjunctival sac. The rate and amount of wetting of the paper provide an estimate of tear production

Schwann cell
(noun)
a glial cell (supporting cells of the nervous system) responsible for forming myelin sheaths in the peripheral nervous system

sciatica
(noun)
severe pain in the leg along the course of the sciatic nerve felt at the back of the thigh running down the inside of the leg
Causes:
1. compression or trauma of sciatic nerve or its roots, esp. resulting from a ruptured intervertebral disk or osteoarthritis of the lumbosacral vertebrae
2. inflammation of sciatic nerve resulting from metabolic, toxic, or infectious disorders
3. pain referred from other parts of the body.

sciatic nerve
(noun)
distribution: muscles of calf and back of thigh; skin of lower calf and upper surface of foot

scirrhous carcinoma
(noun)
a hard slow-growing malignant tumor having a preponderance of fibrous tissue

scleroderma
(noun)
a usually slowly progressive disease marked by the deposition of fibrous connective tissue in the skin and often in internal organs

secretory vesicles
(noun)
membrane- bounded organelle (a specialized part of the cell that performs a definite function) in which molecules destined for secretion are stored prior to release. Sometimes called secretory granule because darkly staining contents make the organelle visible as a small solid object

sed rate
(noun)
lab test of speed at which erythrocytes settle. Blood to which an anticoagulant has been added is placed in a long tube and the distance the red cells fall in one hour is the rate (ESR) . The speed at which cells settle depends on the size of the clumps into which the red cells aggregate, and the size of clumps appears to depend on the amount of fibrinogen in the blood. It is a non-specific indicator of disease, esp. inflammatory conditions, and a number of other abnormal diseases in which it is usually elevated. Some diseases retard sedimentation

sensorineural
concerning a sensory nerve

sensory nerve
(noun)
an afferent nerve conveying sensory impulses to the sensorium, or one composed of sensory fibers

seroma
(noun)
a collection of the watery portion of the blood around the implant or around the incision. Swelling, pain, and bruising may occur. Large seromas must be surgically drained

serum albumin
(noun)
the main protein found in the blood

Sezary syndrome or Sezary's syndrome
(noun)
mycosis fungoides of a variant form that is characterized by exfoliative dermatitis with intense itching and by the presence in the blood and in the skin of numerous large atypical mononuclear T cells with irregularly shaped nuclei

silica
(noun)
silicon dioxide SiO2 occurring in crystalline, amorphous, and impure forms

silicate
(noun)
a salt or ester derived from a silicic acid; especially : any of numerous insoluble often complex metal salts that contain silicon and oxygen in the anion (ion carrying a negative charge), constitute the largest class of minerals, and are used in building materials (as cement, bricks, and glass)

silicic
pertaining to silica or silicon

silicon
(noun)
a tetravalent nonmetallic element that is used in alloys and electronic devices

silicone
(noun)
any of various polymeric organic silicon compounds obtained as oils, greases, or plastics and used especially for water-resistant and heat-resistant lubricants, varnishes, binders, and electric insulators

silicone induced immune dysfunction syndrome (SIIDS)
(noun)
a multisystem disorder, caused by exposure to silicone, which can affect any and all systems of the body

siloxane
(noun)
any of various compounds containing alternate silicon and oxygen atoms in either a linear or cyclic arrangement usually with one or two organic groups attached to each silicon atom

sjogren's syndrome
(noun)
dryness in glands, such as the mouth, kidneys, eyes, and lungs

smooth muscle
(noun)
tissue that lacks cross-striations on its fibers, involuntary in action, and found principally in visceral organs

spastic gait
(noun)
a stiff movement, toes seeming to catch and drag, legs held together with hips and knee joints slightly flexed

Squamous cell carcinoma
(noun)
Cancer that begins in squamous cells -- thin, flat cells that look under the microscope like fish scales. Squamous cells are found in the tissue that forms the surface of the skin, the lining of hollow organs of the body, and the passages of the respiratory and digestive tracts. Squamous cell carcinomas may arise in any of these tissues.

striated muscle
(noun)
skeletal muscle, consisting of fibers marked by cross-striations

sulfate
(noun)
a salt or ester of sulfuric acid

sulfatide
(noun)
any cerebroside with a sulfate radical esterified to the galactose

supernatant
(noun)
1. floating on surface , as oil or water
2. the clear liquid remaining at the top after a precipitate settles

sural nerve
(noun)
distribution: skin of calf and medial side of foot to great toe

symmastia
(noun)
phenomenon where breast implants cross the breast bone to touch over the midline of the chest where the cleavage area would normally be seen. Attempts to "increase cleavage" by releasing the soft tissues or inner origins of the pectoralis muscles lead to symmastia by surgically disrupting the normal anatomical attachments of skin and muscle at the medial aspects of the breasts where the cleavage is normally defined.

Sympathetic nervous system
(noun)
a large part of the autonomic nervous system. It consists of ganglia, nerves, and plexuses that supply involuntary muscles. Most of the nerves of the system are motor, but some are sensory

symptomatic
(adjective)
1. being a symptom of a disease
2. having the characteristics of a particular disease but arising from another cause

synapse
(noun)
communicating cell-cell junction that allows signals to pass from a nerve cell to another cell.
In a chemical synapse the signal is carried by a diffusible neurotransmitter; in an electrical synapse a direct connection is made between the cytoplasms (cell contents that are contained within its plasma membrane but outside the nucleus) of the two cells via a gap junction

synovial fluid
(noun)
clear lubricating fluid secreted by the synovial membrane (membrane that lines the capsule) of a joint

systemic
(adjective)
affecting the body generally

systemic lupus erythematosus
(noun)
an inflammatory connective tissue disease of unknown cause that occurs chiefly in women, is characterized especially by fever, skin rash, and arthritis, often by acute hemolytic anemia, by small hemorrhages in the skin and mucous membranes, by inflammation of the pericardium, and in serious cases by involvement of the kidneys and central nervous system

T

T cells
(noun)
lymphocytes migrate to the thymus, where they develop into T cells and begin to mature. From the thymus they go to a particular area of the peripheral lymphoid tissues and from there they circulate between blood and lymph.
Three subpopulations of T cells are known:

• helper or cooperator cells, which enhance the production of antibody forming cells from B lymphocytes;
  
• cytotoxic or killer T cells, which are formed after mature T cells interact with some antigens present on foreign cells--these cells cause graft rejection and kill foreign cells in vitro;
  
• suppressor T cells, which suppress production of antibody-forming cells from B lymphocytes.

telangiectasia/ telangiectasis
(noun)
a vascular lesion formed by dilatation of a group of small blood vessels. May occur anywhere on the skin but is seen most frequently on the face and thighs.

T cell lymphoma
(noun)
A disease in which cells in the lymphoid system called T cells (or T lymphocytes) become malignant. T-cell lymphomas account for a minority (about 15%) of non-Hodgkin lymphomas in the US and are more common in Asia.

The T-cell lymphomas are highly diverse and include lymphoblastic lymphoma (mainly in children and adolescents, where they account for about half of pediatric lymphomas); peripheral T-cell lymphoma (a heterogeneous group of generally aggressive diseases); mycosis fungoides (called Sezary syndrome if the malignant T cells circulate in blood); and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), both primary cutaneous and systemic ALCL.

T-cell lymphoma may involve the bone marrow but it usually comprises less than 25% of the marrow. If 25% or more of the marrow is populated by the malignant T cells, it is considered T-cell leukemia.

thrombocytopenia
(noun)
abnormal decrease in the number of the blood platelets

thromboembolism
(noun)
the blocking of a blood vessel by a thrombus (blood clot) that has become detached from its site of formation

thrombosis
(noun)
the formation, development, or existence of a blood clot or thrombus within the vascular system. It is life-saving when it occurs during a hemorrhage. It is life threatening when it occurs at any other time because the clot can occlude a vessel and stop blood supply to an organ or a part. The thrombus, if detached becomes an embolus and occludes a vessel at a distance from the original site

thyroglobulin
(noun)
1. An iodide-containing protein secreted by the thyroid gland and stored within its colloid substance
2. A substance obtained by the fractionation of thyroid glands from the hog, Sus scrofa (Trade name is Proloid)

tin
(noun)
a metallic element used in various industries, and in making certain tissue stains. Tin is sometimes used as a catalyst in the manufacturing process of breast implants

tin poisoning
tin in soldered containers has occasionally been responsible for poisoning. Symptoms include: metallic taste in the mouth, gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting, cramping, and diarrhea

titanium
(noun)
a metallic element found in combination with minerals

titanium dioxide
(noun)
a chemical used to protect the skin from the sun. It is also used in industrial applications

trans-
premix meaning across, over, beyond, through

transcription
(noun)
in synthesizing genes and proteins, the necessary process of duplicating or copying information from certain aspects of the chemical compound DNA. Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) is synthesized by copying information from DNA and bringing the information to ribosomes, which are particles containing RNA

tubulin
(noun)
a protein present in the microtubules of cells

U

ultrasonography
(noun)
use of ultrasound to produce an image or photogragh of an organ or tissue. Ultrasonic echoes are recorded as they strike different tissues of different densities. The image produced is called an ultrasonogram

ultrasound
(noun)
inaudible sound in the frequency range of approx. 20,000- 10,000,000,000 cycles per second. Ultrasound has different velocities in tissues that differ in density and elasticity from others. This property permits the use of ultrasound in outlining the shape of various tissues and organs in the body

uremic
pertaining to or caused by a toxic condition associated with renal insufficiency produced by the retention in the blood of nitrogenous substances normally excreted by the kidney

V

varicosity
(noun)
a distended, swollen, twisted, knotted vein

vasculitis
(noun)
inflammation of a blood or lymph vessel

vasospasm
(noun)
sharp and often persistent contraction of a blood vessel reducing its caliber and blood flow

venipuncture
(noun)
puncture of a vein for any purpose

vertebrobasilar
concerning the vertebral and basilar arteries

voluntary muscle
(noun)
any muscle that is controlled by will. They are generally attached to the skeleton and are innervated by myelinated nerves coming directly from the brain or spinal cord. The terms voluntary, striped, cross-striated, and skeletal are practically synonymous when applied to muscle

W

X

xeromammography
(noun)
xeroradiography of the breast

xeropthalmia
(noun)
conjunctival dryness with keratination of epithelium

xeroradiography
(noun)
method of photoreproduction used in x-ray. A dry process involving plates covered with a powdered substance, such as selenium, electrically and evenly charged. This is held between the plates. The x-rays alter the charge or substance to varying degrees which produces the image

xerostomia
(noun)
dryness of the mouth caused by the arresting of normal salivary glands

xylene
(noun)
a mixture of isomeric hydrocarbons used in making lacquers and rubber cement. Xylene can be found in the shells of breast implants

Y

Z

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