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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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  • parathyroid glands

    Two pair of small glands situated next to or in the thyroid gland that are involved in the metabolism of…

  • parenteral

    Inside the body, but outside the intestines.

  • paresis

    Partial or slight loss of feeling or movement.

  • paresthesia

    An abnormal sensation of burning or prickling on the skin, caused by a disorder of the nervous system.

  • Parkinson's disease

    A progressive disease of the brain. Characterized by tremors and muscle stiffness.

  • parotid glands

    The largest of the salivary glands, located near the ears.

  • paroxysm

    A sudden attack, or raised level of intensity, of symptoms.

  • pasteurization

    Heating milk or other substances to a temperature of 140§F for 30 minutes to kill harmful bacteria.

  • patella

    The kneecap.

  • pathogen

    Any agent that causes disease.

  • pathology

    The study of changes caused by disease.

  • pectoral

    Having to do with the chest or breast.

  • pectus carinatum

    An abnormally prominent sternum or breastbone. Also called pigeon breast.

  • pectus excavatum

    A defect of the sternum that’s present at birth.

  • pedal

    Having to do with the feet.

  • pediatrics

    The branch of medicine that deals with the development and care of infants and children.

  • pediculosis

    Infestation with lice.

  • pelvis

    The bony structure formed by the sacrum, coccyx, ilium, pubis and ischium.

  • pemphigus

    A skin condition characterized by large blisters.

  • pepsin

    A digestive enzyme found in the stomach.

  • peptic

    Having to do with the stomach.

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