Dictionary of Medical Terms

The three membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Tumor of the meninges, usually benign and slow-growing.

Inflammation of the meninges as the result of infection by bacteria or viruses. Symptoms include high fever, headache, stiff neck…

The cartilage in the knee joint.

The time at which the menstrual cycle gradually stops. Sometimes referred to as the “change of life.”

Heavy bleeding during menstruation.

The periodic discharge of blood and tissues from the uterus. This usually occurs about every four weeks in a woman…

The chemical and physical processes involved in building up, storing and using materials required for life.

Any of the five bones that make up the hand and join the wrist to the fingers.

The wider portion at the end of a long bone where growth occurs in infants and children.

The spread of a disease from its primary site in the body to another location in the body. Usually refers…

Any of the five bones of the foot directly jointed to each of the toes.

Uterus.

Inflammation of the uterus.

Uterine bleeding, usually of normal amount occurring at irregular intervals.

A microorganism, such as bacterium.

The study of living microbes, including bacteria, protozoa and molds.

Having an abnormally small brain.

A microscopic plant or animal.

A person who helps women at childbirth, but who isn’t a nurse or physician.

A group of symptoms that includes a severe headache, usually on one side of the head, and often accompanied by…