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molluscum contagiosum
A viral infection of the skin characterized by lesions with depressed centers containing a curd-like substance.
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mongolism
A condition present at birth characterized by mental deficiency, a broad face and slanting eyes. Also called Down syndrome.
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monocyte
A large white blood cell leukocyte.
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mononucleosis
An infection with Epstein-Barr virus. Also called “mono.”
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morbid
1. Pathologic or abnormal. 2. Having to do with, or characterized by, disease.
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morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting occurring during pregnancy.
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MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging.
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mucosa
The membrane covering canals and cavities that open on the outside of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract and…
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mumps
A viral disease of childhood characterized by swelling of the parotid (salivary) glands and fever.
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murmur
An extra heart sound that may be normal or abnormal.
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muscle
Tissue made up of bundles of long, slender cells that contract when stimulated.
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mutation
A damaged gene that may produce a disease or deficiency.
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mute
An inability or unwillingness to speak.
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myalgia
Muscle pain.
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myasthenia gravis
A chronic disease characterized by muscular weakness and fatigue.
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myelin
The fat-like substance that insulates certain nerve fibers.
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myocarditis
Inflammation of the heart muscle.
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myoma
A tumor of muscle cells.
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myopia
Nearsightedness.
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myositis
Inflammation of a muscle.
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myringotomy
An incision in the eardrum to relieve pressure or release fluid.
Trusted medical advice from the
American Academy of Family Physicians.
American Academy of Family Physicians.
Go to familydoctor.org Home
Trusted medical advice from the
American Academy of Family Physicians.
American Academy of Family Physicians.
Dictionary of Medical Terms
Gain a better understanding of medical terminology by searching our dictionary of more than 1,300 terms.
