Dictionary of Medical Terms

A deficiency of growth hormone resulting in short stature.

Having to do with the duodenum.

Abnormal buildup of fluid in tissues or a body cavity.

A bandage for an external wound.

A vaccine containing antigens from diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus.

A genetic disorder characterized by some degree of mental retardation and by various physical malformations, such as slanted eyes and…

A flow of liquid or vapor directed onto or into a part of the body.

Pouches or sacs opening out from a main cavity or tubular organ of the body.

Increased elimination of urine.

A location farther from a point of reference. For example, the foot is distal to the knee, relative to the…

A round, red, scaling rash on the nose, forehead, cheeks, scalp or other areas of the body. It may be…

Double vision.

A finger or toe.

The mechanical and chemical conversion of food into simpler compounds that can be absorbed by the body.

The total food consumed by an individual. A therapeutic diet is a prescription of required or restricted foods.

Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart relaxing between beats and filling with blood.

The relaxation phase of the heartbeat.

The process of identifying a disease or medical condition.

To identify a disease.

A disorder of carbohydrate metabolism resulting from insulin deficiency. Characterized by high blood sugar levels that result in weakness, frequent…

A procedure that removes scars, tattoos or other skin defects with fine sandpaper or a high-speed brush.