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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phenylketonuria (PKU)

A rare inherited disorder. Causes an inability to metabolize phenylalanine, an amino acid that’s a common part of many proteins…
phimosis

Excessive tightness of the foreskin of the penis.
phlebitis

Inflammation of a vein.
phlebotomy

Withdrawal of blood from a vein.
phlegm

Mucus, especially mucus produced by the lungs during inflammation or infection.
phobia

Any persistent, unreasonable abnormal fear.
phonation

Making vocal sounds.
photophobia

Abnormal intolerance of light.
physician

A doctor. An authorized practitioner of medicine.
physiology

The branch of medicine that deals with the function of the various parts of the living organism.
pigeon toe

A foot condition where the toes turn in.
piles

An enlarged vein inside or just outside the rectum.
pilus

Hair.
pimple

A small, elevated skin lesion
pinguecula

A yellowish spot on the cornea of the eye that sometimes occurs in the elderly.
pink eye

Inflammation of the conjunctiva. Also called conjunctivitis.
pinna

The part of the ear that’s projected outside of the head.
pinworm

A parasite, Enterobius vermicularis, that can cause intense itching around the anus.
pituitary gland

The gland that secretes hormones that influence body growth, metabolism and the function of other endocrine glands.
pityriasis

A skin condition in which the skin forms thin, dry scales.
placebo

A harmless substance that resembles a medicine; often used to test the effectiveness of medicines.