Dictionary of Medical Terms

Gain a better understanding of medical terminology by searching our dictionary of more than 1,300 terms.

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All terms that start with the letter D

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desensitization

Reducing or eliminating sensitivity to a particular substance.
desquamation

The shedding of cells from the surface of the skin or mucous membranes.
devascularization

Interruption of blood circulation to part of the body.
dextrose

A simple sugar. Glucose.
diabetes insipidus

Loss of water through the kidneys as a result of decreased production of the pituitary hormone vasopressin (an antidiuretic…
diabetes mellitus

A disorder of carbohydrate metabolism resulting from insulin deficiency. Characterized by high blood sugar levels that result in weakness, frequent…
diagnose

To identify a disease.
diagnosis

The process of identifying a disease or medical condition.
dialysis

A treatment to remove certain molecules from the blood, particularly in people with kidney failure.
diaphoresis

Excessive sweating.
diaphragm

1. The dome-shaped respiratory muscle separating the chest from the abdomen. 2. A barrier contraceptive device molded to fit over…
diarrhea

Production of feces in increased volume and with greater fluidity than normal.
diastole

The relaxation phase of the heartbeat.
diastolic

Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart relaxing between beats and filling with blood.
diet

The total food consumed by an individual. A therapeutic diet is a prescription of required or restricted foods.
dietitian

An expert who is trained in the use of diet and nutrition to maintain or restore health.
digestion

The mechanical and chemical conversion of food into simpler compounds that can be absorbed by the body.
digit

A finger or toe.
dilation

The process of expanding or enlarging.
diphtheria

An infectious disease of childhood characterized by fever, sore throat and the presence of “dirty” (white, gray, brown) membranes in…
diplopia

Double vision.