Dictionary of Medical Terms

An animal that spreads an infectious agent from one host to another. Also called a carrier.

Causing the widening or opening (dilation) of blood vessels.

Causing the narrowing or closing (constriction) of blood vessels.

Surgical removal or tying of the vas deferens to prevent the passing of sperm. Used as a form of birth…

Inflammation of the walls of the small blood vessels.

Of or having vessels, particularly the blood vessels.

The duct through which sperm travels from the testicle to the urethra of the penis.

Swollen, distended veins especially visible in the legs.

Dilated veins in the spermatic cord above or around the testis that can cause decreased sperm production on the affected…

Painful spasm of the vagina.

The muscular canal in women between the vulva and the uterus. It serves as the entry for spermatozoa and as…

A preparation of killed or weakened microorganisms, given to treat or prevent disease.

Inoculation with weakened or dead microorganisms to develop immunity and prevent disease caused by the regular strain of that…

The fleshy mass hanging down from the soft palate above the back of the tongue.

A hollow muscular organ in women where the ovum (egg) is deposited and the embryo and fetus are developed.

The branch of medicine that deals with the urinary system in women and the urogenital system in men.

Having to do with the urinary system and genitals.

The fluid composed of water and waste products that’s secreted by the kidneys.

The organ that serves as a temporary storage place for urine. Also called the bladder.

Inflammation or infection of the urethra.

A narrow area of the urethra that blocks the flow of urine.