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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  • epistaxis

    Nosebleed.

  • epithelium

    The layer of cells covering internal and external surfaces of the body.

  • erysipelas

    A febrile (fever-associated) skin infection caused by a group A hemolytic streptococci.

  • erythema

    Redness of the skin.

  • erythema infectiosum

    A viral infection most common in children that begins with a red, warm rash on the face, along with some…

  • erythema multiforme

    An eruption of flat or raised spots of skin as a result of hypersensitivity to certain drugs or allergies.

  • erythema nodosum

    The sudden appearance of tender raised nodes on the lower limbs as a result of an infection, hypersensitivity to certain…

  • erythrocyte

    Red blood cell.

  • Escherichia coli

    A type of common bacteria normally found in the colon. Some strains that cause diarrhea are acquired during travel.

  • esophagitis

    Inflammation of the esophagus, often caused from a reflux of acid from the stomach.

  • esophagus

    The tube through which food passes from the pharynx to the stomach.

  • estrogen

    Female sex hormone.

  • eustachian tube

    The narrow tube connecting the nose and middle ear to allow air pressure in the middle ear to equalize with…

  • exacerbate

    Cause something to increase in severity. To make more intense, irritate.

  • exanthem

    Skin rash.

  • excise

    To remove by cutting.

  • exocrine glands

    Glands that secrete chemicals externally, either through a tube or duct.

  • expectorant

    A substance that loosens mucus so it’s more easily cleared from the respiratory passages.

  • faint

    Temporary loss of consciousness because of an insufficient blood supply to the brain.

  • fallopian tube

    The tubal passageway connecting the ovary to the uterus.

  • familial cholesterolemia

    An inherited disorder causing abnormally high levels of cholesterol in the blood.