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lightening
The feeling of decreased abdominal pressure during the last few weeks of pregnancy caused by the uterus dropping into the…
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ligature
A wire or thread used to tie off blood vessels or to close incisions or wounds.
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ligament
A tough band of connective tissue connecting bones or holding organs in place.
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lichen
Any of various skin diseases characterized by sores and enlarged skin markings.
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leukoplakia
Thick, white patches in the mouth that may become malignant.
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leukopheresis
Selective removal of the white blood cells from a donor’s blood. The other components of the blood are then returned…
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leukopenia
A lower than normal number of leukocytes in the blood.
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leukocytes
White blood cells, the blood cells responsible for fighting infection.
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leukemia
Cancer of the tissues in the bone marrow, spleen and lymph nodes.
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lethargy
A lack of energy; sluggishness, dullness or apathy.
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lesion
Any damage to a tissue. Marks, spots, moles or other problems of the skin.
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leprosy
A progressive infectious disease that attacks the skin, flesh and nerves; characterized by nodules, ulcers, scaly scabs, deformities and the…
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lens
1. A curved glass used to bring together or spread rays of light. 2. The transparent organ lying behind the…
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Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
Perthes disease A disease in which the blood supply to the femur is reduced, causing the bone to collapse.
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lavage
Washing out of an organ, especially the stomach.
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lateral
Toward the side, sideways.
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larynx
The voice box.
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laryngitis
Inflammation of the larynx, resulting in a temporary loss of voice.
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lactose
Milk sugar.
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lactation
Secretion of milk by the breasts.
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lactase
An enzyme that converts the milk sugar lactose into glucose and galactose.