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 P

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polycythemia

Abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells or hematocrit.
polydactyly

Extra fingers or toes.
polydipsia

Excessive thirst.
polyhidrosis

Excessive sweating.
polyp

A growth extending outward from a mucous membrane.
polypectomy

Surgical removal of a polyp.
polyuria

Excessive, frequent urination.
pons

A piece of connecting tissue, specifically the bridge of white matter at the base of the brain.
popliteal

Having to do with the area behind the knee.
pore

A small opening.
posterior

At or toward the back.
postoperative

After surgery.
postpartum

After childbirth.
preeclampsia

A complication of pregnancy. The development of hypertension with protein in the urine, buildup of fluid (edema) or both.
premenstrual syndrome

PMS. Headache, irritability, edema (swelling), abdominal discomfort, pelvic pain and nausea in the days before the start of the menstrual…
prepuce

A covering fold of skin, such as the foreskin of the penis.
presbyopia

A form of farsightedness occurring after middle age. Caused by a loss of elasticity of the crystalline lens with…
prescription

A physician’s written direction for preparation and use of a medicine.
prevalence

The number of cases of a specific disease in a given population at a certain point in time.
proctitis

Inflammation of the rectum.
prodrome

Symptoms marking the onset of an illness.

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