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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
  • 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.

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