Dictionary of Medical Terms

A large cell that engulfs and digests foreign material.

The central part of the retina with the highest density of light receptors. Responsible for detailed vision.

A discolored, flat spot of skin.

Illness.

An infectious disease of the tropics characterized by high fever and chills. The fever typically recurs every third day. Some…

A tendency to worsen to a more serious illness or death. Commonly used to describe cancer.

Deliberate exaggeration of the symptoms of an illness or injury for gain. For example, pretending to be ill in order…

The rounded bony prominence on either side of the ankle.

A small bone in the middle ear, often called the hammer.

Poor nourishment resulting from an inadequate or improper diet.

Improper meeting of the upper and lower teeth.

Improper healing of the pieces of a broken bone.

Having to do with the breast.

The lower jaw.

A mental disorder. Characterized by extreme excitement and energy.

A mental disorder marked by alternating periods of excitability and depression. Also called bipolar affective disorder.

A drug derived from the leaves of the Cannabis sativa plant. Makes the user feel euphoric.

The soft, sponge-like material inside the bones.

Development of male sex characteristics in a female.

Pleasure from personal, psychological or physical pain.

Surgical removal of the breast.