Dictionary of Medical Terms

An instrument for measuring blood pressure. An inflatable blood-pressure cuff.

A birth defect caused by imperfect closure of part of the spinal column, exposing some of the nervous system.

Spiral-shaped bacteria.

The blood-forming and -storing organ located under the ribs in the upper left portion of the abdomen.

Enlargement of the spleen.

A device for holding broken or injured parts in place.

Inflammation of the vertebrae.

Narrowing of the spinal column resulting in reduction of the spaces between the vertebrae which may cause compression of the…

A twisting or stretching injury of a ligament or muscle of a joint, with or without dislocating a bone.

A projecting body. For example, from a bone.

Mucus secreted by the lungs, bronchi and trachea that’s ejected by coughing or clearing the throat.

Surgical removal of the stapes.

Replacement of the stapes with other materials (wire, bone, plastic).

A small bone of the middle ear. Also called the stirrup.

Narrowing of a body passage or opening.

1. Free from living microorganisms. 2. Unable to have children.

The breastbone.

An inflammatory disease characterized by rapid attack of fever, skin blisters and sores on the lips, eyes, mouth, nasal passage…

1. Mouth-like opening. 2. An opening used for drainage.

Inflammation of the mucosa of the mouth.

Feces, or bowel movement.