Dictionary of Medical Terms

A mole or other colored spot on the skin.

A highly toxic and addictive component of tobacco. While the amounts obtained from smoking may not be enough to be…

A reduced ability to see in dim light. May be caused by a vitamin-A deficiency or glaucoma.

The egg of a louse.

Excessive urination at night.

A swelling, knot or knob.

Failure of the ends of a broken bone to mend.

A hormone produced by the adrenal medulla and certain sympathetic nerve fibers.

Having to do with the hospital. For example, an nosocomial infection is one that’s acquired during hospitalization.

Having too much body fat. A weight more than 20% above the normal range.

An ongoing preoccupation with an idea.

Marked by a need to repeatedly perform certain behaviors or rituals.

The branch of medicine that deals with the care and treatment of women during pregnancy and childbirth.

The back of the head.

Hidden from view.

Any illness caused or aggravated by a person’s job.

Teaching useful skills to sick or handicapped people to promote rehabilitation and healing.

Having to do with the eye.

Toothache.

The projection of the ulna (the larger of the two bones in the forearm) at the elbow.

Having to do with the sense of smell.