Appendix C
GLOSSARY
Abnormal gait – Deviation in normal walking usually caused by a disruption or disintegration of strength, sensation or coordination in the central nervous system and/or the musculoskeletal system.
Abnormal involuntary movements – Abnormal involuntary movements (AIM) may also be referred to as dyskinesias. These movements can include athetosis (sinuous, writhing movements of hands/fingers), choreas (continuous jerking movements of head/face/body), dystonia (sustained muscle contraction), hemiballism (sudden flinging/throwing motion of an extremity), myoclonus (rapid, repetitive muscle jerks), torticollis (neck spasm), tardive dyskinesia (neuroleptic orofacial movements), tics and tremors.
Abruptio placentae – Obstetrical complication in which the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus prior to delivery of the fetus.
Abscess – Collection of pus (white blood cells) that accumulates within tissue. It is an inflammatory response precipitated by an infectious process or foreign body (splinter, thorn, nail).
Acne – Skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Non-inflammatory acne lesions are called comedones and may appear black or white. Inflammatory acne lesions include papules (small red bumps), pustules or pimples (small, red, pus filled bumps), nodules (large solid lumps) and cysts (large, painful, pus filled lumps).
Adherent prepuce – Foreskin of the penis extends past the head of the penis (glans) and cannot be retracted back to expose the glans.
Akathisia (acathisia) – Syndrome characterized by a feeling of inner restlessness with symptoms that may range from a sense of disquiet or anxiety to severe discomfort especially in the knees and legs that may make it impossible to sit still or be motionless.
Allergic contact dermatitis – Inflammation of the skin characterized by redness, swelling and itching; and may include blisters/lesions with fluid drainage/oozing caused by sensitization to an allergen that has come into contact with the skin.
Alzheimer’s Disease – Type of dementia affecting memory, thoughts, and behavior that worsens over time. In early onset Alzheimer’s, symptoms occur before age 60. In late onset Alzheimer’s, symptoms occur after age 60.
Amaurosis fugax – Transient loss of vision in one eye.
Amenorrhea – Absence of menstruation in a woman of reproductive age.
Anal fissure – Linear break or tear in the skin surrounding the anal opening.
Anal/Rectal abscess – Inflammation and infection with collection of pus (white blood cells) near the anal opening or inside the anus or rectum.
Anal/Rectal fistula – Abnormal connection or passage between the anal canal or rectum and the skin surrounding the anal opening.
Anal/Rectal prolapse – Section of the rectal wall sags down from the normal anatomical position and may protrude through the anal opening.
Anal/Rectal stenosis – Unusual narrowing or tightness of the anal sphincter and/or rectum, making it difficult to have a bowel movement (pass feces, defecate).
Anemia – Reduced number of red blood cells (RBCs) and/or a low concentration of hemoglobin, a protein found on RBCs.
Anencephaly – Congenital neural tube defect in which the telencephalon (large section of brain containing the cerebral hemispheres) fails to form. The skull and scalp may also fail to form leaving the brain exposed.
Angina Pectoris – Chest pain caused by decreased blood flow to the heart muscle, usually from a spasm or occlusion in the coronary arteries.
Ankyloglossia – Congenital short, thick or tight lingual frenulum (membrane that connects underside of tongue to floor of mouth) which inhibits range of motion in the tip of the tongue. The condition may also be referred to as “tongue tie”.
Anorexia nervosa – Complex eating disorder characterized by food restrictions that can lead to malnutrition and/or starvation
Aortic valve – Heart valve located between the left ventricle of the heart and the aorta that is formed by 3 leaflets.
Appendicitis – Inflammation of the (vermiform, cecal) appendix, a finger shaped, blind pouch that extends from the intestine in the area of the cecum (junction of the large and small intestine).
Arhinencephaly – Congenital defect of the face and brain, more frequently called holoprosencephaly (HPE) resulting from early embryonic failure of the forebrain to divide into two hemispheres.
Asthma – Chronic inflammatory condition that causes narrowing of the bronchi (large upper airways connecting the trachea to the lungs), characterized by swelling, increased mucus production, and muscle tightness.
Atopic dermatitis – Chronic, inflammatory, non-contagious skin disorder characterized by pruritus (itching) that precedes redness or rash.
Azoospermia – Absent or non-measurable level of sperm present in semen (ejaculate).
Balanoposthitis – Inflammation of the glans penis (head of the penis) and the prepuce (foreskin) in an uncircumcised male.
Barrett’s esophagus – Changes in the lining of the esophagus (tube that connects the throat to the stomach) that occurs as a complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Barton’s fracture – Intra-articular fracture of the distal radius with dislocation/displacement of the radio-carpal joint.
Bennet’s fracture – Fracture of the thumb involving the intra-articular joint at the base of the first metacarpal bone and extending into the carpometacarpal joint often with subluxation/dislocation of that joint.
Bent bone – Type of greenstick fracture that occurs in soft bone tissue of infants/young children.
Biliary atresia (stenosis) (stricture), congenital – A condition that is present at birth and characterized by a blockage of the ducts that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder.
Biliary stenosis – Narrowing of the bile ducts which impedes the flow of bile.
Binge eating disorder (BED) – Complex eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of overeating not followed by purging, exercise or fasting. Individuals who engage in this behavior are usually overweight or obese and experience guilt, shame and distress which perpetuates the cycle.
Body Mass Index (BMI) – A measurement of height and weight that is used to assess the total proportion of fat in the body. BMI is not however a direct measure of body fat.
Bronchiectasis – Localized, irreversible dilation of the bronchi (large airways) due to destruction of muscle and elastic tissue in the airway lining. The condition may be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life.
Bronchiolitis – Inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes lining the bronchioles, the smallest airways in the lungs.
Bronchitis – Inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the bronchi, the large to medium-size airways that branch from the trachea carrying air to distal portions of the lungs.
Bulimia nervosa – Complex eating disorder characterized by frequent, recurrent episodes of overeating (binging) followed by (singly or in combination) forced vomiting, ingestion of laxatives and/or diuretics (purging), fasting or exercise. Individuals with this binge/purge disorder are more likely to have a normal (healthy) body weight or be slightly overweight.
Carbuncle – Infection of several furuncles that come together in the same area, characterized by a red, swollen lump filled with fluid, pus, and dead tissue, that may appear white or yellow at the center.
Cardiac arrest – Failure of the heart muscle to contract effectively which impedes the normal circulation of blood and prevents oxygen delivery to the body.
Cellulitis – Inflammation of the connective (soft) tissue often extending into the deep dermal and subcutaneous layers of the skin.
Cerebral cysts, congenital – Also called porencephaly, this is a rare condition present at birth and characterized by the formation of cavities in the cerebral cortex of the brain.
Cerebral Palsy – Group of disorders that affect the brain and central nervous system with impairment to sight, hearing, movement and/or cognition caused by an injury to the brain occurring in utero, during delivery, or in the first 2 years of life when the brain is still growing.
Chemotherapy – Treatment with one or more cytotoxic or antineoplastic drugs that act upon cancerous or malignant cells that divide more rapidly than normal cells to kill or destroy the cancerous or malignant cells.
Cholangitis – Inflammation and/or infection of the cystic (bile) duct.
Cholecystitis – Inflammation and/or infection of the gallbladder.
Choledochal cyst – Congenital cystic dilatation of the bile ducts.
Cholelithiasis – Presence of stones or calculi in the gallbladder or cystic (bile) duct.
Chorea – Abnormal, involuntary, hyperkinetic muscle movement disorder characterized by irregular, repetitive, dancelike rhythmic muscle movements which seem to flow from one muscle or group of muscles to another. The movements may also include twisting or writhing into odd postures that make walking difficult.
Chorioamnionitis – Inflammation of the chorion (maternal side) and/or amnion (fetal side) of the fetal membrane, usually caused by a bacterial infection.
Choroid – Layer of tissue comprised of blood vessels and connective tissue located between the sclera and retina in the eye.
Choroidal degeneration – Group of eye disorders characterized by loss of cellular or tissue function and subsequent structural changes in the choroid layer of the eye.
Cleft lip – Congenital anomaly of the upper lip characterized by indentation or gap in the upper lip (partial or incomplete cleft lip) that may continue into the nose (complete cleft lip) resulting from failure of the maxillary and/or medial nasal processes to fuse during fetal development. Also called cheiloschisis, the defect may be unilateral (one sided) or bilateral (two sided).
Cleft palate – Congenital anomaly of the palate characterized by a gap in the bony hard palate or roof of mouth and/or muscular soft palate/uvula (area behind the hard palate). Also called palatoschisis, it results from failure of the lateral palatine process, nasal septum and/or the median palatine process to fuse during fetal development. A complete cleft involves both the hard and soft palates (and may include a gap in the maxilla). An incomplete cleft involves either the hard or soft palate but does not extend through both.
Colles’ fracture – Fracture that occurs just above the radiocarpal junction, usually presenting as a transverse break of the distal radius with displacement posteriorly (dorsally) of the hand/wrist.
Coma – Coma is a prolonged period (>6 hours) of unresponsiveness. It is characterized by the inability to arouse or failure to respond normally to noxious stimuli (pain), light and sound.
Conductive hearing loss – Hearing loss caused by a mechanical problem involving the outer ear, tympanic membrane (ear drum), or bones (ossicles) in the middle ear.
Conjoined twins – Identical twins with a shared (fused) area of the body, most commonly the head, chest or pelvis. This rare type of twin develops from a single fertilized egg cell with a common chorion, placenta and amniotic sac.
Conjunctivitis – Inflammation of the conjunctiva which is the inner surface of the eyelid and outer surface of the eye.
Contracture muscle/tendon sheath – Shortening of the muscle and/or tendon sheath which prevents normal movement and flexibility.
Coronary atherosclerosis – Condition affecting arterial blood vessels in the heart and characterized by inflammation and accumulation of macrophage white blood cells and low-density lipoproteins along the arterial walls leading to narrowing of the vessels and decreased blood flow to the heart muscle.
Craniorachischisis – Severe neural tube defect present at birth characterized by a total or partial fissure involving the skull and spinal column. The condition is very rare and includes both anencephaly and spina bifida (myelomeningocele).
Cushing syndrome – Endocrine disorder that occurs when the body is exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol either from an exogenous source, such as corticosteroid drugs or from an endogenous source such as overproduction of cortisol in the adrenal glands.
Cystic liver disease, congenital – Liver disease that is present at birth and is characterized by formation of thin walled sacs in the liver, usually in clusters, that contain fluid, gas, or a semi-solid material.
Cystitis – Inflammation of the urinary bladder.
Down’s syndrome (Trisomy 21) – Genetic disorder caused by the presence of 3 copies (trisomy) of chromosome number 21. There are three recognized variations of Trisomy 21, nonmosaicism, mosaicism and Robertsonian translocation. Nonmosaicism is the most common and occurs when either the male sperm or female egg has an extra copy of chromosome 21. Mosaicism is uncommon and results from a nondisjunction event that occurs on chromosome 21 during early cell division in a normal (46 chromosome) fertilized egg causing some cells to have 47 chromosomes. Robertsonian translocation (Familial Down Syndrome) is also uncommon and occurs when the long arm of chromosome 21 attaches to another chromosome (usually chromosome 14). The parent is phenotypically normal but a gamete can be formed that has an extra 21st chromosome.
Drug resistant microorganisms – Pathogenic microorganisms that have developed strains that are resistant to some or all of the drugs previously used to treat the resulting infections.
Dysmenorrhea – Dysmenorrhea is pain associated with the menstrual cycle. Primary dysmenorrhea has no underlying disease or condition. Secondary dysmenorrhea has an underlying cause such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, intrauterine devices, premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, uterine leiomyoma or fibroid tumors.
Dyspareunia – Recurrent or persistent pain associated with sexual intercourse.
Eclampsia – A life threatening obstetrical condition with onset anytime between the 20th week of pregnancy and up to 6 weeks postpartum characterized by hypertension, proteinuria (protein present in urine), and tonic-clonic (motor) seizures. hypertension may be pre-existing or pregnancy-induced.
Edema – Swelling caused by fluid accumulation in the interstitial tissue.
Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (Cutis hyperelastica) – Rare group of genetically inherited connective tissue disorders caused by defects in collagen synthesis, which can manifest in the musculoskeletal system with joint hyper-flexibility or instability and pain, in the skin with hyper-elasticity or fragility, and in the cardiovascular system with fragile blood vessels and valvular heart defects.
Emphysema – Chronic type of obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by the slow destruction of elastic tissue forming the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs. This leads to an increase in alveoli size and subsequent wall collapse with expiration, trapping air (carbon dioxide) and limiting oxygen availability.
Encephalocele – Rare congenital defect of the neural tube, the channel that forms the brain and spinal cord during fetal development. The condition is characterized by a sac-like protrusion of the meningeal membrane containing cerebral spinal fluid (meningocele) or cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and brain tissue (encephalomeningocele).
Endometriosis – Presence of cells that are normally found in the uterus outside the uterine cavity, most often in the peritoneum. Endometrial cells react to hormone stimulation during the menstrual cycle causing them to thicken and bleed. This can lead to irritation, development of scar tissue and adhesions, pain, and often problems with fertility.
Epilepsy – Epilepsy is a brain disorder characterized by seizures which are episodic changes in attention or behavior. Seizures occur when an area of the brain becomes over excited and creates abnormal signals. Seizures can manifest as simple staring (absence) or involve whole body shaking (motor, tonic-clonic).
Erectile dysfunction (impotence) – Inability to form or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
Esophageal stenosis, congenital – Narrowing of the esophagus which is present at birth. This narrowing restricts the passage of food/fluid/saliva from the mouth to the stomach.
Esophageal varices – Dilated, submucosal veins in the esophagus.
Esophageal web (ring) – Thin membrane of (normal) mucosal or submucosal tissue that protrudes and obstructs the esophagus. The condition can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life.
Essential hypertension – Abnormally elevated blood pressure levels that have no underlying cause; also called primary or idiopathic hypertension.
Failure to thrive – A condition in which an individual fails to meet expected growth standards due to an inability to consume, retain or utilize nutrients needed to gain weight and grow. It is most common in infants and young children but can occur at any age. Identifying the underlying problem is usually necessary before the condition can be treated effectively.
Fasciculation – Local, involuntary muscle twitch often visible under the skin or detected by electromyography (EMG).
Foodborne infection – Illness that results from food contaminated with microorganisms such as bacteria, and the microorganism continue to grow in the gastrointestinal tract causing the illness.
Foodborne intoxication – Illness that results from consumption of toxins produced in food contaminated by some types by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Clostridium botulinum. It is the toxins, not the bacteria, that causes the illness.
Frostbite – Localized damage to skin and soft tissue due to loss of blood circulation from exposure to extremely low temperatures. It usually occurs in distal body parts (fingers, toes, nose).
Functional quadriplegia (quadriparesis) – Partial or complete inability to move due to disability or fragility without physical injury or damage to the central nervous system (brain, spinal cord).
Furuncle – Infection of a hair follicle that extends into the sebaceous gland (pilosebaceous unit), characterized by a red, swollen bump filled with fluid, pus (neutrophils), dead tissue, that may appear white or yellow at the center.
Galeazzi’s fracture – Fracture occurring at the junction of the distal and middle third of the radial shaft with subluxation/dislocation of the distal radio-ulnar joint.
Gastric varices – Dilated, submucosal veins in the stomach that are prone to bleeding.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – Chronic digestive disorder that occurs when the muscular valve between the esophagus and stomach fails to function properly allowing gastric acid to flow backward (reflux) from the stomach into the esophagus. The mucosal tissue lining the esophagus becomes irritated causing symptoms such as frequent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough and laryngitis.
Gastroschisis – Rare defect in the anterior wall of the abdomen, occurring more often on the right side of the umbilicus in which the abdominal muscles and peritoneum fail to develop normally, exposing abdominal organs to amniotic fluid. The bowel (intestine) can shorten, twist and swell leading to problems with feeding, digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Gestational diabetes – A type of diabetes characterized by glucose intolerance that develops during pregnancy. Hormones produced by the placenta block insulin receptors in the mother causing maternal blood glucose levels to rise. Maternal blood glucose levels usually return to normal post-delivery.
Gestational hypertension – Pregnancy-induced hypertension, characterized by arterial blood pressure >140/90 mmHg, without proteinuria (protein present in urine) in a pregnant woman without previously documented hypertension.
Glaucoma – Group of eye disorders characterized by elevated intraocular pressure that can cause optic nerve damage.
Glomerulonephritis – Disorder of the renal system characterized by inflammation of the glomeruli or small blood vessels in the kidneys.
Glycoprotein metabolism – Glycoprotein metabolic disorders are rare inherited genetic diseases characterized by a failure to synthesize or degrade glycoprotein molecules causing them to accumulate in body organs and tissue.
Glycosaminoglycan metabolism – Metabolic disorder, such as Hurler’s, Hurler-Scheie, Morquio, and Sanfilippo, that is usually an inherited genetic disease that causes a failure in the breakdown of long chain sugar molecules which then accumulate and damage body organs.
Gout – An arthritis-like condition caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the blood which leads to inflammation of the joints. Acute gout typically affects one joint. Chronic gout is characterized by repeated episodes of pain and inflammation in one or more joints.
Greenstick fracture – Fracture occurring in soft bone tissue which bends and only partially breaks. It is most common in infants and young children.
HELLP Syndrome – HELLP syndrome is a serious, often life-threatening condition that can progress from pre-eclampsia/eclampsia and includes hemolytic anemia, elevated liver enzymes and decreased platelet count.
Hematosalpinx – Accumulation of blood in the fallopian tube leading to blockage and dilation of the tube.
Hemiparesis (acquired) – Weakness (of muscles/motor function) that affects one side of the body.
Hemiplegia (acquired) – Paralysis (loss of motor function) that affects one side of the body.
Hemolytic anemia – Abnormal breakdown of red blood cells causing a reduced number of red blood cells (RBCs) and/or a low concentration of hemoglobin, the iron-containing protein found on RBCs.
Haemophilus influenzae – Haemophilus influenzae is a bacterium with six encapsulated strains (a-f) and some untypable, unencapsulated strains. H. influenzae is an opportunistic pathogen known to cause pneumonia, meningitis, epiglottitis and other infection/illness, most often in children.
Hepatic cirrhosis – Liver cirrhosis arises from liver fibrosis and is characterized by pseudo-lobule formation with changes to the liver’s fundamental structure and subsequent framework collapse.
Hepatic fibrosis – Histological change in liver cells caused by liver inflammation. This change is characterized by an increase in collagen fiber deposits in the extra-cellular spaces of the liver causing a decrease in blood perfusion and hardening of the liver cells.
Hepatitis, chronic, non-viral – Liver inflammation lasting longer than 6 months and characterized by hepatocellular necrosis with infiltration of inflammatory cells.
Hiatal hernia, congenital – Rare condition present at birth, characterized by the protrusion of all or part of the stomach though the diaphragm (sheet of muscle that separates the chest and abdominal cavities) into the esophagus.
Hirschsprung’s disease (congenital aganglionic megacolon) – Congenital absence of certain ganglion cells in one or more sections of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which causes decreased peristalsis (contraction of intestinal muscles), constipation, and possible bowel obstruction.
Holoprosencephaly (HPE) – Congenital defect of the face and brain, also called arhinencephaly caused by an early embryonic failure of the forebrain to divide into two hemispheres. Three forms of HPE have been identified. Alobar HPE is the most severe and is characterized by almost complete failure of forebrain separation, the nose is missing and the eyes merged into a single median structure. Semilobar HPE has some forebrain separation and facial anomalies may or may not be present. Lobar HPE may have a considerable amount of forebrain separation, rare facial anomalies and brain function can be nearly normal.
Hydrocele (testis) – Accumulation of serous fluid in the scrotum, usually in a remnant piece of peritoneum called the tunica vaginalis that wraps around the testicle.
Hydrocephalus, congenital – Abnormal accumulation of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain that is present at birth, usually due to obstruction to the outflow of CSF from the ventricles or subarachnoid space. Congenital hydrocephalus may cause increased intracranial pressure and an enlarged head.
Hydronephrosis – Dilation/distention of the kidney resulting from urine overfill usually caused by an obstruction in the ureter, bladder or urethra.
Hydrops fetalis – Accumulation of excess fluid in two or more fetal compartments, usually arising from an initial overproduction of interstitial fluid, followed by inadequate lymphatic drainage. These compartments can include subcutaneous tissue/scalp, pleural space (pleural effusion), pericardium (pericardial effusion) and the abdomen (ascites).
Hydrosalpinx – Accumulation of serous fluid in the fallopian tube leading to blockage and dilation of the tube. The condition may be unilateral or bilateral and is often associated with infertility.
Hyperesthesia, skin – Sensory dysfunction in any area of the skin, characterized by increased sensation to a normally non-noxious stimulus or sensation without any stimuli input.
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, congenital – A condition present at birth, characterized by thickening of the muscles that form the pylorus (valve between the stomach and duodenum). This thickening narrows (obstructs) the opening causing delayed emptying of food from the stomach into the intestine.
Hypoesthesia, skin – Sensory dysfunction in an area of the skin, characterized by decreased or absent sensation to stimuli including thermal, mechanical, electrical and vibration. The dysfunction may vary (i.e. ability to feel heat but not cold, sharp but not dull) and can be transient or permanent.
Hypospadias – Abnormal placement of the male urinary meatus (opening of the urethra) from its normal opening at the end of the penis.
Hypospadias, balanic – In balanic (glanular, coronal, first degree) hypospadias, the opening of the urethra is near the tip but on the underside of the glans penis (penile head).
Hypospadias, penile – Penile (second degree) hypospadias has an opening of the urethra anywhere along the underside of the penile shaft.
Hypospadias, penoscrotal – Third degree hypospadias where the urethral opening is located at the junction of the penile shaft and the scrotum.
Hypospadias, perineal – Third degree hypospadias where the urethral opening is along the perineum between the scrotum and the anus.
Immunotherapy (biologic therapy, biotherapy) – Treatment that utilizes the body’s immune system to help fight diseases such as cancer. Immunotherapy may work by stimulating the immune system in general or by training it to attack cancer cells specifically.
Iniencephaly – Severe neural tube defect, characterized by an occipital bone defect, spinal bifida (myelomeningocele) at the level of the cervical vertebrae, and retroflexion (backward bend) of the head at the cervical spine. The condition can be further defined as having an encephalocele present (iniencephaly apertus) or absent (iniencephaly clausus).
Irritable bowel syndrome – Common, non-inflammatory functional bowel disorder that affects the colon (large intestine), with symptoms that include diarrhea and constipation (often alternating), abdominal pain or cramping, gas and bloating.
Irritant contact dermatitis – Inflammation of the skin caused by chemicals or other substances coming in direct with the skin characterized by redness, swelling and itching; may also include blisters/lesions with fluid drainage/oozing. The chemical or other substance is the cause of the inflammation as opposed to an allergic response causing the inflammation.
Isoimmunization – Isoimmunization is the development of antibodies in response to the exposure of isoantigens from foreign tissue or cells.
Jaundice, neonatal – Also called hyperbilirubinemia or neonatal icterus, newborn jaundice is characterized by a yellow discoloration of the sclera (eye) and skin, caused by elevated levels of unconjugated bilirubin.
Kyphosis – Pathological over curvature of the thoracic spine, characterized by a rounded or “humpback” appearance in the upper back.
Left anterior fascicular block – Conduction disorder of the heart that involves the electrical conduction of impulses from the atrioventricular node with the anterior half of the left bundle branch being defective causing the impulse to pass first to the posterior area of the ventricle and delaying activation of the anterior and upper ventricle. Also called left anterior hemiblock, it is the most common partial block of the left bundle branch.
Left posterior fascicular block – Conduction disorder of the heart that involves the electrical conduction of impulses from the atrioventricular node with the posterior half of the left bundle branch being defective causing the impulse to pass first to the anterior and upper ventricle and delaying activation of the posterior ventricle. Also called left posterior hemiblock.
Listeriosis – Infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes.
Lordosis – Excessive inward curvature in the lumbar region of the spine, characterized by a swayback or saddle back appearance in the lower back.
Lumbago – Non-specific pain in the lower back region.
Lymphadenitis (lymphadenopathy) – Infection/inflammation of the lymph nodes (glands) which are small structures containing white blood cells (WBCs) that filter lymph fluid.
Lymphangitis – Infection/inflammation of the lymphatic channels that usually results from an infection distal to the channel. The condition is characterized by redness, swelling and warmth often in a “streaking” pattern from the site of the infection.
Malignant immunoproliferative disease – Disorders of the immune system involving abnormal proliferation of primary cells including B-cells, T-cells, Natural Killer (NK) cells and/or excessive production of immunoglobulins (antibodies).
Meckel’s diverticulum – Congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by a small pouch located in the distal ileum that contains embryonic tissue remnants of the jejunum, duodenum, stomach or pancreas.
Meningococcemia – Infection of the blood caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitides
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) – Strain of the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium that is resistant to first line antibiotics including penicillins and cephalosporins.
Methicillin Susceptible Staphylococcus Aureus (MSSA) – Strain of the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium sensitive to first line antibiotics including penicillins and cephalosporins.
Migraine – Common neurological disorder that often manifests as a headache that is usually unilateral and pulsating in nature. Caused by abnormal brain activity along nerve pathways and brain chemical (neurotransmitter) changes which affect blood flow in the brain.
Mitral valve – Heart valve located between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart that is formed by 2 leaflets.
Mittelschmerz – Mid-cycle lower abdominal or pelvic pain usually associated with female ovulation. The pain may be unilateral or bilateral.
Mixed hearing loss – Conductive hearing loss in combination with sensorineural hearing loss.
Monoplegia – Paralysis of a single limb, muscle or muscle group.
Monteggia’s fracture – Fracture of the proximal third of the ulna with dislocation of the radial head.
Morbid obesity – A large amount of excess body fat with a BMI>40 or body weight 50-100% greater than normal for height.
Multiple gestation – Pregnancy with more than one fetus.
Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS) – Physiologic state in which body organs are incapable of maintaining homeostasis. Primary MODS is a direct result of a well-defined insult. Secondary MODS develops as a consequence of the host response within the context of Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS).
Muscle spasm – Sudden, involuntary contraction of a single muscle or a muscle group.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae – Very small bacterium that lacks a peptidoglycan cell wall, instead having a cell membrane that incorporates a sterol compound. Causes an atypical pneumonia that is resistant to many antibiotics.
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) – Diverse group of blood disorders involving poorly formed or dysfunctional myeloid stem cells.
Myocardial Infarction – Interruption of blood flow to an area of the heart muscle leading to cell damage or death, usually a result of occlusion (blockage) in the coronary arteries.
Myoclonus – Quick, involuntary muscle jerks.
Nephritic syndrome – Clinical disorder of the kidneys characterized by swelling and/or inflammation of the glomeruli which allows protein and red blood cells (RBCs) to filter into the urine. Hypertension and uremia may also be part of the syndrome.
Neutropenia – Low level of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell (WBC), in the circulating blood.
Obesity – Large amounts of excess fat in the body with a BMI of 30-39.9 or body weight at least 20% greater than normal for height.
Oligohydramnios – Decreased level of amniotic fluid during pregnancy.
Oligomenorrhea – Infrequent menstruation (cycle >35 days or 4-9 periods per year) in a woman with previously regular periods.
Oligospermia – Low level of sperm (<15 million sperm/ml) present in semen (ejaculate) and is associated with male infertility.
Omphalitis – Infection of the umbilical cord stump.
Oophoritis – Infection/inflammation of the ovary which can be unilateral or bilateral, and acute or chronic.
Osteoarthritis – Degenerative disease of the joints including articular cartilage and subchondral bone, characterized by pain, stiffness, immobility and swelling (effusion, fluid accumulation).
Osteomalacia – Softening of bone tissue due to inadequate intake or absorption of vitamin D, calcium and/or phosphorus (phosphate).
Osteoporosis – Disease that affects previously constructed bone tissue, characterized by decreased density, weakness and brittleness, making the bone more susceptible to fracture.
Otitis externa – Inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal.
Otitis media – Inflammation of the middle ear, between the tympanic membrane and inner ear and including the Eustachian tube.
Overweight – Excess body fat that can impair health. A BMI of 25-29.9 is considered overweight for most individuals.
Pancreatitis – Inflammation of the pancreas.
Pancytopenia – Reduced number of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets.
Paresthesia, skin – Sensory dysfunction affecting any area of the skin and characterized by a feeling of burning, numbness, tickling or tingling without any long term adverse effect.
Paraphimosis – Retraction of the prepuce (foreskin) behind the glans penis (head of the penis) that decreases blood flow to the glans causing a tight edematous (swollen) band of tissue to form. The swelling makes it difficult, sometimes impossible to move the foreskin back over the glans.
Parkinson’s disease – Degenerative disorder of the brain and central nervous system caused by a loss of dopamine generating cells in the midbrain and an accumulation of the protein alpha-synuclein in structures called Lewy bodies also located in the brain.
Paroxysmal tachycardia – Heart rhythm disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of rapid heartbeats, usually with an abrupt onset and a spontaneous return to a normal. The condition is caused by an abnormal electrical focus that can originate in the atrium, atrioventricular node or ventricle.
Pathologic fracture associated with malignancy (cancer) – Fracture that results from primary or metastatic malignant (cancerous) lesions that invade and destroy normal bone tissue causing the bone to weaken and break.
Penile chordee, congenital – An abnormal upward or downward curvature of the penile head (glans penis) at the junction to the shaft that is present at birth.
Persistent vegetative state – Disorder of consciousness usually associated with severe brain damage, characterized by a state of partial arousal (wakeful unconsciousness) but not true awareness of the environment.
Persistent cloaca – Rare, complex, malformation of the female anorectal and genitourinary tracts, characterized by fusion of the rectum, vagina and urethra creating a single channel (cloaca).
Phimosis – Inability of the prepuce (foreskin) to be retracted behind the glans penis (head of the penis) in an uncircumcised male.
Phlebitis – Inflammation of a vein.
Pica – Patterned eating of non-nutritive substance, such as dirt or paper, for a duration of >1 month at an age when it is developmentally inappropriate.
Placenta previa – Obstetrical condition in which the placenta attaches low in the uterus, partially or totally obstructing the cervix, which may cause severe bleeding during pregnancy and/or delivery.
Placental insufficiency – Complication of pregnancy in which the fetus fails to receive adequate nutrition and/or oxygen because the placenta does not develop properly or becomes damaged during the pregnancy.
Placentitis – Inflammation of the placenta which is the organ that secretes hormones and provides nutrition, waste elimination and gas exchange (oxygen) to the developing fetus.
Pneumonia – Inflammatory condition of the lungs, primarily in the alveoli (terminal air sacs) which may be caused by infection (bacteria, virus, other pathogens), chemicals or drugs and certain autoimmune disorders.
Pneumonia, newborn/congenital – Inflammatory condition of the respiratory tract that is acquired in utero or during the birth process. Symptoms can be present at birth or occur in the neonatal period (up to 28 days following delivery).
Polyhydramnios – Increased level of amniotic fluid during pregnancy.
Post-term (postmature) newborn – Newborn with a gestational period (pregnancy) that has exceeded 42 weeks.
Pre-eclampsia – Obstetrical complication that typically occurs after the 20th week of gestation but may also occur as late as 6 weeks postpartum with the following symptoms: hypertension (BP >140/90 mmHg) with proteinuria (protein present in urine). Pre-eclampsia may be considered severe with a BP >160/110 and additional symptoms such as edema (swelling) and epigastric pain. The hypertension may be pre-existing or pregnancy induced.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) – Severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), PMDD is characterized by depression, anxiety, tension and irritability that typically begins after release of the ovum, as the follicle forms the corpus luteum and secretes progesterone (luteal phase).
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – Condition associated with the menstrual cycle that is characterized by a consistent pattern of physical and/or emotional symptoms, including irritability, tension, unhappiness (dysphoria), anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, breast tenderness, bloating, abdominal discomfort (cramps), muscle and joint pain.
Pre-term (premature) newborn – Neonate with a gestational period (pregnancy) less than 37 weeks.
Prune belly syndrome (Eagle-Barret syndrome, Triad syndrome) – Rare genetic condition characterized by three factors, a partial or total lack of abdominal muscles (giving skin a wrinkled appearance), undescended testis (cryptorchidism)and urinary tract problems (large ureters, distended bladder).
Pruritus – Itching.
Psoriasis – Chronic, noncontagious, immune mediated skin disorder characterized by thick silvery scales and dry, red, itchy patches that may be painful.
Psychogenic appetite loss – An aversion to food or eating without a pathologic/physiologic explanation for the condition.
Pterygium – Benign growth of tissue on the conjunctiva, that typically presents near the cornea as a painless, raised, white lesion that contains blood vessels.
Pulmonary valve – Heart valve located between the right ventricle of the heart and the pulmonary artery and is formed by 3 leaflets.
Pyosalpinx – Accumulation of pus in the fallopian tube leading to blockage and dilation of the tube.
Radiation proctitis – Inflammation and tissue damage of the lower colon following exposure to x-ray or ionizing radiation to treat certain cancers (cervical, prostate, colon).
Radiation therapy – The medical use of ionizing radiation to control or kill malignant (cancer) cells by damaging cell DNA.
Regional enteritis (Crohn’s disease) – Chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus but typically affects the intestines.
Renal agenesis (dysgenesis) (hypoplasia) – Failure of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) kidneys to develop normally during gestation.
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) – An irresistible need to move the legs due to unpleasant sensations such as creeping, crawling, tingling or bubbling. The sensations are most often felt in the lower leg between the knee and ankle but can also be located in the upper leg or arms. Movement does not relieve the sensations.
Right fascicular block – Defect in the heart’s electrical conduction system in which the right ventricle is not activated by an impulse from the right bundle branch but does depolarize when impulses from the left bundle branch travel through the myocardium.
Rolando’s fracture – Comminuted intra-articular fracture through the base of the first metacarpal bone, usually in three fragments forming a T or Y shape.
Salpingitis – Infection/inflammation of the fallopian tube that may be unilateral or bilateral and acute or chronic.
Sciatica – Pain, paresthesia, and/or weakness in the low back, buttocks or lower extremities resulting from compression of one or more spinal nerves that form the sciatic nerves.
Scoliosis – Abnormal sideways curvature in the spine. The condition may be present at birth or develop later in life, usually around the time of puberty.
Scrotal varices (varicocele) – Enlarged veins along the spermatic cord.
Seborrheic dermatitis – Inflammatory skin disorder caused by over production of sebum, from oil producing sebaceous glands found in the scalp, face and torso. The condition is characterized by scaly or flaky skin, itching and redness.
Secondary hypertension – Abnormally elevated blood pressure levels due to an underlying condition or cause such as kidney disease, adrenal gland tumors, or medication.
Secondary parkinsonism – Parkinson’s-like symptoms that are due to an identifiable underlying illness, injury or disease process, such as chemical or environmental toxins, drugs, encephalitis or meningitis and cerebral vascular disease.
Septicemia (bacteremia) – Presence of pathogens such as bacteria, virus, fungi or parasites in the blood. The condition may lead to sepsis.
Sialoadenitis – Inflammation and/or infection of one or more of the salivary glands.
Smith’s fracture – Also referred to as a reverse Colles’ fracture, this type of fracture occurs just above the radiocarpal junction with the radius displaced ventrally (volarly). It can present with multiple fragments and may or may not involve the articular surface of the wrist joint.
Somnolence – State of drowsiness that normally precedes sleep, but can occur outside of normal sleep patterns when there is a disruption or dysfunction in circadian rhythm, when fatigue causes periods of microsleep and when illness or infection are present and the body naturally rests to conserve energy.
Spermatocele – Fluid filled cyst that may contain spermatozoa and is located in a tubule at the head of the epididymis.
Spondylolisthesis – Anterior or posterior displacement of one or more vertebra(e).
Staphylococcus aureus – Bacterium that commonly colonizes in the human respiratory tract and on the skin and may lead to acute infections.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome – Mild form of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), a complex hypersensitivity response that affects skin and mucus membranes causing cell death due to separation of the epidermis from the dermis.
Stress fracture – Small crack or break in a bone caused by unusual or repeated force/overuse in an area of the body, most commonly the lower legs and feet.
Stupor – Disorder of consciousness characterized by unresponsiveness except to noxious stimuli (pain). An individual in a state of stupor will usually have muscle rigidity, muteness, but eyes may open and appear to track surroundings.
Thrombophlebitis – Inflammation of a vein with formation of a blood clot within the vessel.
Tics – Tics or tic disorders involve a discrete group of muscles and are characterized by sudden, repetitive motor movement or phonic utterances.
Torus fracture – Fracture that occurs on one side of a long bone causing it to overlap (buckle) onto itself without disrupting the integrity of the bone on the opposite side.
Tracheoesophageal fistula, congenital – Abnormal connection between the trachea and the esophagus. The condition occurs when the tracheoesophageal ridges fail to fuse during early embryonic development.
Transient cerebral ischemia (transient ischemic attack, TIA) – Temporary disruption of cerebral blood flow without acute infarction or tissue death.
Transient global amnesia – Sudden, temporary loss of short term memory.
Tremor – Involuntary, often rhythmic contraction and relaxation of one or more muscles.
Tricuspid valve – Heart valve located between the right atrium and right ventricle of the heart and formed by 3 leaflets.
Ulcerative colitis – Chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine including the rectum. The condition is usually intermittent with exacerbation of symptoms (diarrhea with/without blood and/or mucus) and then extended periods without symptoms.
Undescended testis (cryptorchidism) – Failure of one or both testicles to descend from the groin (or abdomen) into the scrotum prior to birth.
Urethral stricture – Abnormal narrowing of the urethra, a channel through which urine passes from the bladder to the outside of the body.
Vaginismus – Sudden tension or spasm of vaginal muscles making vaginal penetration during intercourse painful or impossible.
Vaginitis – Inflammation of the female vagina usually due to irritation or infection (e.g., bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, trichomoniasis) that may be acute or chronic.
Varicose veins – Enlarged, tortuous (twisted) and painful vein caused by incompetence of the valves in the vein and backflow of blood.
Ventricular fibrillation (V-fib) – Serious, life threatening heart rhythm disorder characterized by uncontrolled twitching or quivering of the heart muscle fibers and failure of the heart to effectively pump blood.
Vertigo – Sensation that one’s body (subjective vertigo) or surroundings (objective vertigo) are in motion.
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) – Backflow of urine from the bladder to the ureters and sometimes into the kidneys.
Vulvovaginitis – Inflammation of the female vagina and vulva (labia, clitoris and vestibule of the vagina) that may be acute or chronic.