Dictionary of Medical Terms

A round, flat structure, particularly the fibrous cartilage layer between two vertebrae (the bones that make up the spine). Also…

Removal of an intervertebral disk of the spine.

Displacement of a bone from a joint.

Mental confusion, especially of time, place or person.

A location farther from a point of reference. For example, the foot is distal to the knee, relative to the…

Increased elimination of urine.

Pouches or sacs opening out from a main cavity or tubular organ of the body.

Inflammation of small pouches that may form on the wall of the colon.

A condition in which pouches form on the wall of the colon.

Toward the back.

A flow of liquid or vapor directed onto or into a part of the body.

A genetic disorder characterized by some degree of mental retardation and by various physical malformations, such as slanted eyes and…

A vaccine containing antigens from diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus.

A bandage for an external wound.

Abnormal buildup of fluid in tissues or a body cavity.

A channel or passage through which fluids move.

Having to do with the duodenum.

The first part of the small intestine that begins at the stomach and is the entry point for the pancreatic…

Scarring of the palmar ligament in the hand, causing progressive curling of one or more fingers and a thickening of…

A deficiency of growth hormone resulting in short stature.

Infection of the intestine resulting in severe diarrhea and cramps, frequently associated with blood or mucus in the stools.