antagonist
immunoglobulins
idiopathic
polyuria
petechiae
trismus
tophi
acute
An agency of the European Union
EMA medical terms
simplier
Plain-language description of medical
terms related to medicines use
EMA Medical Terms Simplifier
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8 February 2022
EMA/329258/2022 Rev. 1
1
EMA Medical Terms Simplifier
Plain-language description of medical terms related to medicines use
This compilation gives plain-language descriptions of medical terms commonly used in information about
medicines. Communication specialists at EMA use these descriptions for materials prepared for the
public.
In our documents, we often adjust the description wordings to fit the context so that the writing flows
smoothly without distorting the meaning. Since the main purpose of these descriptions is to serve our
own writing needs, some also include alternative or optional wording to use as needed; we use ‘<>’ for
this purpose.
Our list concentrates on side effects and similar terms in summaries of product characteristics and public
assessments of medicines but omits terms that are used only rarely. It does not include descriptions of
most disease states or those that relate to specialties such as regulation, statistics and complementary
medicine or, indeed, broader fields of medicine such as anatomy, microbiology, pathology and
physiology.
This resource is continually reviewed and updated internally, and we will publish updates periodically.
If you have comments or suggestions, you may contact us by filling in this form
.
1
This revision includes terms used in cancer clinical trials, a change to seizure-related entries to avoid the use of fit,
as well as several new and revised terms.
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A
abdomen belly
ablation procedure to burn or remove parts of <tissue> <an organ>
ablation, radiofrequency destroying cancer cells with heat generated from radio waves
abrasions grazes
abscess a swollen area where pus has collected
absence seizure see seizure, absence
acetylcholine see neurotransmitter
acetylsalicylic acid also known as aspirin
acid regurgitation stomach acid flowing up into the mouth
acneiform resembling acne
acromegaly
excessive growth particularly of the bones of the hands, feet and face caused
by too much growth hormone <from the pituitary gland>
actinic keratoses <precancerous,> abnormal skin growths caused by too much sunlight
active immunity see immunity, active
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acute <short-lived> <sudden> <short-term>
acute coronary syndrome
<heart> conditions such as heart attack and unstable angina <(a type of
severe chest pain)> <caused by blocked blood supply to parts of the heart>
acute systemic
hypersensitivity reaction
see hypersensitivity reaction, acute systemic
adipocytes fat cells
adjunct add-on
adjuvant (vaccines) a substance <such as aluminium> that increases the effect of the vaccine
administer / administration do not use; use simple verbs such as ‘give’ or ‘take’
advanced (cancer)
consider has <started to> spread; check definition for each cancer type
carefully as this description may not always apply
aggregate stick together
agonist a substance that attaches to a receptor (target) and triggers an effect
agranulocytosis
very low level of a type of white blood cell <called granulocytes><, which are
important for fighting off infection>
akathisia a constant urge to move
alcohol intoxication do not use; explain in text e.g. excessive alcohol consumption
alkaloids substances that are naturally found in plants
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allergen a substance that causes an allergy
allergen challenge
a test to measure a patient’s reaction to a defined dose of an allergen (the
substance that they are allergic to)
allergic rhinitis see rhinitis, allergic
allotransplantation when a patient receives cells, tissues or organs from a donor
alopecia substitute with hair loss
alveolitis, allergic see pneumonitis, hypersensitivity
ambulatory avoid term where possible or use able to walk
amnesia substitute with memory loss
anaemia
<low levels of red blood cells> <low levels of haemoglobin> <which can cause
tiredness and pale skin>
anaemia, aplastic
when bone marrow stops producing new blood cells <causing tiredness,
lower ability to fight infection and uncontrolled bleeding>
anaemia, haemolytic excessive breakdown of red blood cells <causing tiredness and pale skin>
anaesthetic
a medicine <which blocks sensation> used to prevent pain and discomfort
<during surgery and medical procedures>
anaesthetic block see nerve block
anaesthetic, general
a medicine that can be used to prevent pain by making the patient
unconscious
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anaesthetic, local
a medicine that blocks out sensation used to prevent pain in a part of the
body <during surgery or other medical procedure>
anaesthetist a doctor specialised in anaesthesia
analgesic painkiller
analgesic, intraspinal painkilling medicine injected into the spine
anaphylactic reaction (shock) see anaphylaxis
anaphylactoid reaction
sudden, severe allergic reaction <with breathing difficulty, swelling,
lightheadedness, fast heartbeat, sweating and loss of consciousness>
anaphylaxis
sudden, severe allergic reaction <with breathing difficulty, swelling,
lightheadedness, fast heartbeat, sweating and loss of consciousness>
androgen male sex hormone like testosterone
aneurysm bulging and weakening of blood vessel <wall>
angina see angina pectoris
angina attacks
sudden pains to the chest, jaw and back, brought on by physical effort and
due to problems with the blood flow to the heart
angina pectoris
pains to the chest, jaw and back, brought on by physical effort and due to
problems with the blood flow to the heart
angina, unstable
chest pain caused by interruptions in the heart’s blood supply, that can occur
at rest <or without an obvious trigger>
angioedema
rapid swelling under the skin <in areas such as the face, throat, arms and
legs> <which can be life threatening if throat swelling blocks the airway>
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angiogenesis growth of new blood vessels
angiography X-rays of blood vessels
angioplasty a procedure to unblock a narrowed blood vessel <in the heart>
anorexia substitute with loss of appetite
anovulation when ovaries fail to produce eggs
antagonist
a substance that blocks a receptor (target) and stops other substances
attaching to it and triggering an effect
EXPLAINER
What does antibiotic resistance mean?
Antibiotics fight off bacteria. Typically, they interfere with processes that are important for the bacteria to
survive or multiply.
But bacteria can evolve to neutralise the effects of antibiotics. For example, they may develop enzymes that
break down the antibiotic or they may develop a mechanism to keep the antibiotic from entering the
bacteria. The antibiotic can therefore no longer fight off the bacteria and the bacteria are considered
antibiotic resistant.
The instructions for building the proteins (such as enzymes) that make bacteria antibiotic resistant are
contained in their genes. Worryingly, these genes can be passed on to other types of bacteria, sometimes to
bacteria of different species. This can cause antibiotic resistance to spread quickly even among unrelated
species of bacteria.
antibody
a protein in the blood that helps the body's defences by identifying and
attaching to specific foreign substances including germs
side effect a protein the body produces that attaches to the medicine <and
can affect how well treatment works>
anticoagulant a substance that prevents the blood from clotting
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antiemetic a substance that <prevents> <and> <treats> nausea and vomiting
antigen
a specific structure that the body can recognise as 'foreign' and against which
it can produce an antibody
antihistamine
a <medicine> <substance> that prevents symptoms of allergy
alternatively an allergy medicine
antihypertensive blood pressure lowering
antioxidant
a substance that can prevent damage from highly reactive molecules called
‘free radicals’
antiplatelet medicines
medicines that prevent platelets in the blood from clumping and blocking
arteries
antipyretic a medicine for treating fever
antiretroviral use HIV medicine
anuria a condition in which a patient cannot make or pass urine
aortic stenosis see stenosis, aortic
apathy lack of interest or energy
aphasia
problems with use of language <including speech, understanding and
reading> <because of brain damage>
apheresis
a procedure where blood is passed through an external device that removes
<X> before returning the blood to the body
apnoea
interruption of breathing; see also sleep apnoea and obstructive sleep
apnoea
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apnoea, obstructive sleep
repeated interruption of breathing during sleep due to airways becoming
blocked
apnoea, sleep frequent interruption of breathing during sleep
aqueous humour the watery fluid in the eye
arachnoid one of the membranes protecting the spine and the brain
arrhythmia abnormal or irregular heartbeat
artery disease, peripheral reduced blood flow in arteries of the legs and arms
arthralgia substitute with joint pain
arthritis pain and inflammation in the joints
arthropathy damage to the joints
ascites a build-up of fluid in the abdomen
aspergillosis an infection caused by a fungus called Aspergillus
asthenia substitute with weakness
asymptomatic showing no symptoms <effects>
ataxia inability to coordinate muscle movements
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atelectasis collapse of the whole or part of a lung
atherosclerosis
a disease in which fatty deposits build up in the walls of the arteries
alternatively fatty deposits in arteries <which can cause blockage>
atherothrombotic events problems caused by blood clots and hardening of the arteries
atonic seizure see seizure, atonic
atony lack of normal muscle <strength> <movement> <function>
atopic linked to an allergy
atopic dermatitis see eczema, atopic
atrial fibrillation see fibrillation, atrial
atrial flutter see flutter, atrial
atrioventricular (AV) block a type of heart rhythm disorder
atrophy wasting away of body tissue or organ
atrophy, muscular muscle wasting
attenuated weakened
atypical absence seizure see seizure, atypical absence
aura unusual visual or other sensory experiences
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autograft
healthy <tissue> <specific tissue: bone, skin, …> taken from one part of the
patient’s body and grafted in another
autoimmune disease a disease caused by the body’s own defence system attacking normal tissue
EXPLAINER
What does autoimmune disease mean?
An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune (defence) system treats healthy parts of the body as if they
were foreign and attacks them. Autoimmune disease can take many forms, depending on which body cells or
tissues are targeted by the immune system.
Well-known autoimmune diseases include:
• rheumatoid arthritis, a condition of joints and nearby tissues
• psoriasis, a skin condition
• ulcerative colitis, a bowel disease
• type 1 diabetes, in which insulin-producing cells are destroyed
• multiple sclerosis, in which the protective covering of nerves is destroyed
Some autoimmune diseases can run in families.
Treatment of autoimmune diseases generally involves relieving the symptoms (especially during flare-ups)
and calming down the immune system (‘immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapy’). Medicines
that tackle the underlying autoimmunity in rheumatoid arthritis are sometimes called disease-modifying
antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS) or, more generally, disease-modifying drugs.
Autologous <tissue> <cells> from the patient’s own body
avascular necrosis death of bone tissue due to interruption of blood supply
B
B cells cells in the immune system
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B lymphocytes
use B cells unless it is necessary to introduce the term lymphocyte, in which
case say B lymphocytes (B cells) the first time and then use B cells
bacteraemia bacteria present in the blood
bacteriostatic stops bacteria from multiplying
Bell’s palsy weakness in the face muscles
benign prostatic hyperplasia
(BPH)
enlarged prostate gland<that is not cancerous>
bile a fluid produced in the liver that helps to break down fats
biliary cirrhosis see cirrhosis, biliary
bilirubin a breakdown product of red blood cells
bilirubin (elevated) see hyperbilirubinaemia
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EXPLAINER
What does bioequivalence mean?
Bioequivalence testing tells us if medicines that contain the same active substance behave in the same
way in the body. Bioequivalence means that the active ingredient in different medicines is absorbed into
the body at the same speed and to the same extent.
Testing for bioequivalence typically involves giving volunteers a medicine and then measuring the amount
of the active ingredient in their blood regularly (say, every 2 hours) until very little of the ingredient
remains in the blood. If the pattern of rise and fall of the active ingredient in the blood is identical then
the medicines are bioequivalent.
Three measures are important for confirming bioequivalence:
• The maximum concentration of the active ingredients in the blood
• The time to reach the maximum concentration after taking the medicine
• The extent to which the active ingredients are absorbed.
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bioequivalent
two medicines are bioequivalent when they produce the same levels of the
active substance in the body.
if greater precision is needed, consider medicines with the same active
substance are bioequivalent if the active substances from both medicines are
absorbed in the body at the same rate and to the same extent.
biological medicine a medicine made by cells <grown in a laboratory>
biopsy examination of tissue removed from the body <to check for disease>
biowaiver
an exemption from having to show bioequivalence between the medicine
and its reference product
blepharitis inflammation of the eyelid(s)
blood pressure, diastolic
blood pressure when the heart is between beats < (lower one of the two
readings)>
blood pressure, systolic blood pressure when the heart beats < (higher one of the two readings)>
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blood urea nitrogen (BUN) a marker for liver and kidney problems
BMI body mass index <a measure of body weight in relation to height>
body surface area use calculated using the <patient / child>'s height and weight
bolus injection full dose injected in one go <over a few seconds>
bone (mineral) density a measure of how strong the bones are
bone marrow spongy tissue inside the large bones <where blood cells are produced>
bone marrow transplantation
see also haematopoietic (blood) stem cell transplantation.
a procedure where the patient’s bone marrow is cleared of cells and
replaced with healthy bone marrow cells from a donor
bradycardia slow heart rate
breakthrough pain flare-up of pain despite ongoing treatment with painkillers
bronchi airways in the lungs
bronchiectasis when airways have become weakened and scarred
bronchitis inflammation of the airways in the lungs
bronchoconstriction narrowing of the airways <causing breathing difficulty and wheezing>
bronchodilator a medicine that widens the airways in the lungs
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bronchospasm
excessive <and prolonged> contraction of the airway muscles causing
breathing difficulty
bruxism <involuntary> teeth grinding
bulimia nervosa an eating disorder
bulla(e) large blister(s) with pus
bullous blistered
bullous eruption
blisters
C
TERMS USED IN CANCER CLINICAL TRIALS
complete response no sign of cancer after treatment
event-free survival
how long patients live without <a complication or sign of disease occurring or
coming back> <their disease coming back>
overall response rate
percentage of patients who have either no sign of cancer or <shrinkage of the
tumour><a decrease in the extent of the cancer> after treatment
overall survival how long patients live
partial response <shrinkage of the tumour><decrease in the extent of the cancer> after treatment
patient-reported
outcome
report directly from the patient of how well they are doing
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progression (disease) getting worse
progression-free
survival
how long patients live without their disease getting worse
relapse-free survival how long patients live without their disease coming back
response rate do not use; write percentage of patients who improve <on treatment>
survival rate, overall percentage of patients who live for a specific period <after diagnosis or treatment>
survival, overall how long patients live
time to (disease)
progression
do not use. Explain as: the time until the disease started worsening <again>
time to treatment
failure
do not use. Explain as: the time until the treatment stopped working
cachexia muscle wasting with significant weight loss
calcitonin
a hormone <produced by the thyroid gland> that helps to control the amount of
calcium and phosphorus in the blood
candidiasis thrush, a fungal infection <caused by Candida>
cannula a thin tube inserted into <the body><a vein>
cannula, indwelling
intravenous
a thin tube permanently inserted into a vein
capillary leak syndrome
leakage of fluid from blood vessels causing tissue swelling and a drop in blood
pressure
capsid shell (of a virus)
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carcinoid syndrome
symptoms caused by <cancerous> tumours that release substances into the blood
<that act on different organs>
carcinoid tumour a tumour of the endocrine system that produces hormones
carcinoma a type of cancer
cardiac heart
cardiac arrest heart stops beating
cardiac arrhythmia see arrhythmia
cardiomyopathy damage to the heart muscle
cardiotoxicity harm to the heart
cardiovascular affecting the heart and blood circulation
cardiovascular system heart and blood vessels
cardioversion a process that restores the heart's normal rhythm
cartilage tough, flexible tissue in joints and other areas such as the nose and ears
castration
surgical or chemical prevention of the effects of male hormones <released by the
testes>
catalyse help
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cataplexy
sudden muscle weakness and collapse caused by a strong emotion or laughter <in
patients with narcolepsy>
cataract clouding of the lens
catheter a flexible tube inserted into the body
CD4 T-cells white blood cells that are important in helping to fight infections
cellulitis inflammation of the deep skin tissue
central nervous system brain and spinal cord
central venous
catheter
see central venous line
central venous line a tube through the skin into a large vein <used for giving medicines and fluids>
cerebral of <cerebrum, a part of> the brain
cerebral oedema see oedema, cerebral
cerebrospinal fluid fluid that surrounds the brain and the spinal cord
cerebrovascular
accident
stroke
cerebrovascular
disease
disease of the blood vessels supplying the brain
cervical cancer cancer of the cervix
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cervical dystonia
twisting and pulling of the neck and head caused by abnormal tightening of neck
muscles
cervix the neck of the womb
CHD see coronary heart disease
chelate
do not translate but explain in text, e.g. 'attaches to another chemical to form a
'chelate' that can be removed from the body in the stools'
cholestasis reduced flow of bile from the liver <because of a blockage>
cholestatic hepatitis see hepatitis, cholestatic
choroid the layer below the retina that contains blood vessels
chromatopsia changes in colour perception
chromosomal
translocation
when parts of genes are rearranged between two chromosomes
chromosome genetic material
chronic long term
chronic renal failure see renal failure, chronic
chronic stable angina
pectoris
see angina pectoris
circumoral do not use; substitute with around the mouth
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cirrhosis <scarring of the liver> <a type of liver disease>
cirrhosis, biliary liver damage caused by build-up of bile
coagulation clotting
coagulopathy problems with blood clotting
cognitive ability to think, learn and remember
colitis inflammation in the large bowel <causing pain and diarrhoea>
colloidal solid particles evenly spread in a liquid
colon lower part of the gut
colonoscopy a procedure to examine the large bowel though a tube with a camera
colorectal cancer
a cancer that starts in the large bowel and involves the rectum (the lowest part of
the gut)
community-acquired
infection
infection has been caught outside of hospital
compensated liver
disease
see liver disease, compensated
compliance
the ability of patients to stick to their treatment; avoid term, explain what is
meant
complicated flu see flu, complicated
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complicated infection see infection, complicated
congenital present at birth
congestive heart failure see heart failure, congestive
conjunctiva the membrane that lines the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelid
conjunctivitis redness and discomfort in the eye
connective tissue the tissue that binds and supports the skin and internal organs
constriction narrowing
contraception prevention of pregnancy
contrast agent
a compound that helps make internal body structures easier to see during imaging
and medical procedures
contusion bruising
convulsion an episode of spasm(s) and reduced consciousness
cornea the transparent layer in front of the eye that covers the pupil and iris
corneal opacity clouding of the cornea
coronary arteries blood vessels that supply the heart muscle
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coronary artery disease see coronary heart disease
coronary heart disease
heart disease caused by narrowing or blockage of blood vessels supplying the heart
muscle
corpora cavernosa the spongy tissue of the penis
corpuscular volume size of the red blood cells
C-reactive protein a marker of inflammation
creatine kinase an enzyme released into the blood when muscle is damaged
creatine
phosphokinase (CPK)
see creatine kinase
creatinine a breakdown product of muscle <removed by the kidneys>
creatinine (elevated) a sign of <worsening> kidney problems
creatinine clearance a measure of how well the kidneys are working
crepitation unusual crackling sound
Crohn’s disease an inflammatory disease affecting the gut
cryotherapy freezing
crystalluria <crystal> particles in the urine
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cutaneous small vessel
vasculitis
inflammation of blood vessels in the skin <which may result in a rash or bruising>
Cushing’s syndrome
disorder with signs such as weight gain, fat build-up on the face and bruising
caused by too much of <a type of steroid> <corticosteroid> hormone
cyanosis skin and lips turning blue <because of a lack of oxygen>
cystitis
<inflammation> <infection> in the bladder <which can cause pain and discomfort
when passing urine>
cytokine release
syndrome
<life-threatening> condition causing fever, vomiting, shortness of breath, headache
and low blood pressure
cytomegalovirus (CMV)
retinitis
a viral infection of the retina, which can cause loss of vision
cytopenia low number of cells in the blood <or tissue>
cytotoxic cell-killing or able to kill <dividing> cells <such as cancer cells>
D
dander shed skin and hair
decompensated heart
failure
see heart failure, decompensated
decompensated liver
disease
see liver disease, decompensated
deep vein thrombosis
(DVT)
blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg
delirium confusion
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deltoid muscle muscle covering the shoulder joint
delusion false beliefs
dementia loss of intellectual function
demyelinating
polyneuropathy
a neurological disorder characterised by progressive weakness and loss of
sensation in the legs and arms
demyelination
breakdown of the covering around nerve fibres <which can affect brain activity,
muscle control and sensations>
depot injection
a type of injection where the medicine is prepared so that it is absorbed by the
body very slowly
dermatitis inflammation of the skin
dermatitis, atopic see eczema, atopic
dermatology the treatment of skin conditions
desquamation shedding of the upper layers of the skin
diabetic foot infection consider infection that occurs in the feet of patients with diabetes
diabetic ketoacidosis
a serious complication of diabetes with high levels of ketones in the blood
add relevant symptoms if needed
diabetic peripheral
neuropathy
damage to the nerves in the extremities that can occur in patients with diabetes
diabetic precoma
a dangerous condition that can occur in diabetes; combine with ketoacidosis if
necessary
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dialysis
technique for removing unwanted substances and excess fluid from the blood
<when the kidneys do not work well enough>
dialysis, peritoneal
type of dialysis <involving circulating fluid into the abdomen and then allowing the
fluid to flow out>
diaphoresis excessive sweating
diaphragm the main breathing muscle under the lungs
diastolic blood
pressure
see blood pressure, diastolic
digital ulcers see ulcers, digital
dilate substitute with widen or expand
diplopia double vision
disease-modifying
(drugs or therapy)
treatment that changes the progress of a <long-term> disease
dissociation
(psychiatry)
feeling disconnected from emotions and physical surroundings
distension swelling
diuretic
a medicine that increases urine production <and reduces build-up of water in the
body> <and lowers blood pressure>
diverticulitis a disease affecting the gut
DNA genetic material
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dopamine
neurotransmitter Parkinson's disease only: a messenger substance in the parts of
the brain that control movement and coordination
dormant inactive
DRESS (drug rash with
eosinophilia and
systemic symptoms)
a severe reaction affecting the skin, blood and internal organs
ductus arteriosus,
patent
a condition where the blood vessel that allows blood to bypass the baby's lungs
before birth fails to close after birth. This causes heart and lung problems in the
baby
duodenitis inflammation of the duodenum, the part of the gut leading out of the stomach
duodenum the part of the gut leading out of the stomach
dysaesthesia unpleasant and abnormal feeling when touched
dysarthria difficulty speaking
dysgeusia taste disturbance
dyskinesia difficulty controlling movement
dyslipidaemia abnormal levels of fat in the blood
dysmenorrhoea period pains
dyspepsia indigestion
dysphagia difficulty swallowing
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dysphonia changes in the sound or tone of the voice
dysplasia presence of abnormal cells <which may become cancerous>
dyspnoea difficulty breathing
dystonia involuntary muscle contractions
dysuria painful urination
E
echocardiography a diagnostic test where an image of the heart is obtained using ultrasound
ectopia lentis a disorder where the lens of the eye is in the wrong position
ectopic pregnancy pregnancy developing outside the womb
eczema itchy, red and dry skin
eczema, atopic itchy, red and dry skin in people prone to allergies
efficacy
avoid; if absolutely necessary, use 'how well <medicine> works as measured in
clinical studies'
ejection fraction how much blood is pumped out of the heart in one beat
electrocardiogram
(ECG)
a test of the heart’s <electrical> activity
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electrolytes
salts such as sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride and bicarbonate <in blood and
other fluids in the body>
embolisation
a procedure to block a blood vessel <to stop bleeding or to block the flow of blood
to a tumour or abnormal cells>
embolism obstruction of a blood vessel <by a clot>
embolism, air/gas air or gas bubbles in the blood that obstruct a blood vessel
emetogenic triggering nausea and vomiting
emotional lability mood swings
empirical treatment treatment started on current knowledge until better information is available
encephalitis inflammation of the brain
encephalopathy brain disorder caused by a harmful substance or infection
encephalopathy,
hepatic
brain damage caused by liver problems
encephalopathy,
hyperammonaemic
brain damage caused by high levels of ammonia
endocarditis
infection of the sac around the heart <which can lead to serious heart
complications>
endocrine
related to <glands that produce> hormones in the body
in some circumstances, particularly where ‘endocrine’ is an adjective, using
‘hormonal’ might be enough
endometrium the lining of the womb
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endophthalmitis inflammation of the inside the eye <often caused by infections>
endoscope a flexible device used to look inside body cavities
endoscopy a procedure that uses a tube with a camera to look inside the body
engraftment consider when the cells start growing <and producing normal blood cells>
enzyme
general a protein that helps specific chemical processes in the body; more specific
a protein that <explain role of enzyme, e.g., converts X to Y>
enzyme replacement
therapy
therapy in which the patient is provided the enzyme that is lacking
eosinophil a type of white blood cell
eosinophilia an excess of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell
epidemic
when a disease spreads to a large number of people in a community, region or
country
epidemiological studies studies of the causes and distribution of diseases in the population
epidermis outer layer of the skin
epigastralgia pain around the upper part of the stomach
epigastric (region) upper and middle part of the belly
epiphyses
the growing ends of long bones <which become part of the main bone when
growth finishes>
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epistaxis substitute with nosebleed
erectile dysfunction inability to get or keep an erection; impotence
erosion ulcer
eructation belching
erythema reddening of the skin
erythropoietin hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells <by the bone marrow>
exacerbation flare-up
exercise capacity the ability to carry out physical activity
exfoliative flaky
extracorporeal
membrane
oxygenation (ECMO)
a technique to oxygenate the blood outside the body using a device similar to a
heart-lung machine
extrapyramidal side
effects/symptoms
effects on a part of the brain that regulates movement <which may result in
tremor, muscle spasms or movement disorders>
extravasation
when a medicine that is normally injected into a vein leaks or is accidentally
injected into the tissue surrounding the vein, where it can cause serious damage
F
faecal urgency urgent need to open the bowels
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familial runs in the family
familial adenomatous
polyposis
formation of numerous growths mainly in the large intestine
familial
hypercholesterolaemia
high blood cholesterol levels that run in the family
fatigue substitute with tiredness
febrile feverish
febrile neutropenia see neutropenia, febrile
fibrillation uncoordinated twitching of muscle <fibres>
fibrillation, atrial
irregular and uncoordinated contractions of the upper chambers of the heart
<caused by problems in the flow of electrical impulses> <which may cause
<palpitations> <fast heartbeat>>
fibrillation, ventricular
dangerous, irregular and uncoordinated contractions of the lower chambers of the
heart <caused by problems in the flow of electrical impulses> <which can stop the
heart working>
fibroids non-cancerous growths in the womb
fibrosis tissue scarring and thickening
fibrosis, pulmonary lung damage with tissue scarring and thickening
ferritin a protein that stores iron in the body
FEV1 (forced expiratory
volume in 1 second)
the most air a person can breathe out in 1 second
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fibrinolytic dissolves blood clots made out of a substance called fibrin
fissure tear or crack
fistula abnormal passageway <between the gut and other organs>
flare worsening of disease
flatulence gas
flu, complicated serious effects of flu generally requiring hospital care
flushing reddening of the skin
flutter, atrial
rapid contractions of the upper chambers of the heart <caused by problems in the
flow of electrical impulses> <which causes strain on the heart because the upper
and lower chambers are beating at different speeds>
follicles small sacs <in the ovary> that hold the eggs
folliculitis inflammation of hair follicles
forced expiratory
volume
the most air a person can breathe out <in one second>
forced vital capacity a measure of how much air the lungs can hold
formication a sensation of something crawling on or under the skin
FVC see forced vital capacity
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G
gangrene decay and death of tissue
gastric retention when the stomach does not empty properly
gastritis inflammation of the stomach lining
gastroenteritis diarrhoea and vomiting
gastrointestinal stomach and gut
gastro-oesophageal
reflux disease
disease where stomach acid rises up into the oesophagus
gastro-resistant <tablets> <capsules> that can pass through the stomach intact
gastrostomy inserting a tube through the skin into the stomach; see also PEG
general anaesthetic see anaesthetic, general
generalised anxiety
disorder
long-term anxiety or nervousness about everyday matters
generalised seizure see seizure, generalised
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EXPLAINER
What are genes?
Our genes determine our makeup and we inherit them from our parents. A gene is a set of precise
instructions for making a specific protein in a cell. We have a bank of between 20,000 and 25,000 different
genes. Each gene forms a small section of the long strands of DNA (chromosomes), present in the nucleus of
the cell.
Cells make copies of the DNA when they divide. The copies can develop mistakes but these are usually
repaired and there is no effect on the genes. For many of the remaining mistakes, the consequences are
minor and go unnoticed. But, rarely, mistakes lead to an alteration (mutation) of a gene and affect the
production of an important protein and so cause disease. Cystic fibrosis, a disease affecting the lungs and the
digestive system, is an example of a disease caused by faulty genes.
Genetic diseases are challenging to treat. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms of the disease and,
where possible, replacing the missing or abnormal protein resulting from the faulty gene. For some diseases,
advanced medicines may be able to introduce genes into body cells and so correct the underlying genetic
abnormality, possibly permanently.
genotoxic substance a substance that is harmful to the DNA, the genetic material in cells
glaucoma damage to the nerve in the eye <usually caused by high pressure in the eye>
glaucoma, angle-
closure
damage to the nerve in the eye caused by pressure inside the eye rising rapidly
because fluid cannot drain out
glaucoma, narrow-
angle
see glaucoma, angle-closure
glaucoma, open-angle
damage to the nerves in the eye caused by high pressure due to clogging of fluid
drainage canals
glioma
a type of brain tumour that begins in ‘glial’ cells (the cells that surround and
support nerve cells)
glossodynia burning or tingling sensation in or around the mouth
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glucose sugar
gluteal region buttocks
glycosylated
haemoglobin (HbA1c)
the proportion of haemoglobin in the blood that has glucose attached. HbA1c
indicates how well blood glucose is controlled
gout
high levels of uric acid in the blood causing symptoms especially painful
inflammation in the joints
graft versus host
disease
when transplanted cells attack the body <because the transplanted tissue or organ
regards the patient’s tissue as ‘foreign’ and attacks the body>
granulation wound healing
granulation,
hypertrophic
excessive production of tissue during wound healing
granulocytes a type of white blood cell
Guillain-Barré
syndrome
an immune system disorder that causes nerve inflammation <and can result in
pain, numbness, muscle weakness and difficulty walking>
gynaecomastia abnormal breast enlargement
H
5-hydroxytryptamine also known as serotonin – see neurotransmitter
haemagglutination clumping of red blood cells
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haemagglutinins <virus> proteins that make red blood cells clump together
haematological <of> <related to> blood
haematoma a collection of blood under the skin
haematopoietic (blood)
stem cell
transplantation
a procedure where the patient's bone marrow is <cleared of cells and> replaced
<by stem cells> <from a donor> <with the patient's own stem cells> to form new
bone marrow <that produces healthy cells>
haematopoietic
progenitor cells
see stem cells
EXPLAINER
What is haematopoietic stem cell transplantation?
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) involves a patient receiving stem cells to help the bone
marrow produce healthy blood cells. Stem cells are unspecialised cells that can develop to become different
types of specialised cells. HSCT is used to treat serious diseases of the blood and immune system. A stem cell
transplant in which the patient receives cells from a matched donor is called an allogeneic transplant. Before
receiving the transplant, treatment is given to clear cells from the patient’s own bone marrow. The patient
then receives the donor cells, which multiply and develop into healthy specialised blood and immune cells.
haematuria substitute with blood in the urine
haemodialysis
procedure for removing waste products from the blood <used in patients with
kidney disease> <using a blood filtration machine>
haemoglobin the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body
haemolytic anaemia see anaemia, haemolytic
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haemophilia A an inherited bleeding disorder caused by lack of factor VIII
haemophilia B an inherited bleeding disorder caused by lack of factor IX
haemoptysis coughing blood
haemorrhage substitute with bleeding
haemorrhagic stroke see stroke, haemorrhagic
haemostasis stopping bleeding
hallucination seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there
hand foot syndrome rash and numbness on the palms and soles
hay fever
inflammation of the nasal passages caused by an allergy to pollen; do not define
unless absolutely necessary
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EXPLAINER
What does HbA1c say about diabetes control?
HbA1c is a substance in the blood, with the full name glycosylated (or glycated) haemoglobin. As blood sugar
rises, the amount of glycosylated haemoglobin increases. HbA1c is measured in people with diabetes and
tells us about a person’s average blood glucose (sugar) control over the previous 2 to 3 months.
HbA1c is measured as a proportion of haemoglobin in the blood, either as a percentage or in ‘mmol/mol’.
Generally, in people who don’t have diabetes the HbA1c is below 6% (42 mmol/mol) and in people with
diabetes it is over 6.5% (48 mmol/mol).
Taking diabetes medicines regularly lowers HbA1c levels. HbA1c is often used to measure the effectiveness of
diabetes medicines. Because HbA1c tells us about long-term control of blood glucose it may be a better
measure than the level of blood glucose itself, which fluctuates and can change within a few minutes of
eating or taking a diabetes medicine. The aim of diabetes treatment is to achieve reliable long-term control of
blood glucose and prevent complications of the disease.
heart failure
when the heart does not pump blood as well as it should <with shortness of breath,
tiredness and ankle swelling>
heart failure,
congestive
when the heart does not pump blood as well as it should <with build-up of fluid
around the heart> <causing shortness of breath, tiredness and ankle swelling>
heart failure,
decompensated
when the heart is working less and less well
hepatic liver
hepatic
encephalopathy
see encephalopathy, hepatic
hepatitis inflammation of the liver
hepatitis, cholestatic build-up of bile leading to inflammation of the liver
hepatomegaly enlarged liver
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HER2 a protein involved in the growth of certain types of breast cancer
herpes simplex viral infection of the mouth (such as cold sores) or the genitals
herpes zoster see shingles
hirsutism excessive hair <in parts where there is usually very little or no hair>
histamine a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms
HMG-CoA reductase an enzyme in the liver that is needed to make cholesterol
Hodgkin’s lymphoma see lymphoma
hormone
a substance <released by a gland> that circulates in the blood and helps body
organs to work in specific ways
hormone treatment treatment that blocks or increases the effects of specific hormones
hyperaemia increased blood flow
hyperaemia, ocular red eye
hyperammonaemia high blood levels of ammonia
hyperammonaemic
encephalopathy
see encephalopathy, hyperammonaemic
hyperbilirubinaemia
high blood levels of bilirubin<, a breakdown product of red blood cells, which can
cause yellowing of the skin and eyes> <, indicating liver problems>
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hypercalcaemia high blood calcium levels
hypercalciuria high calcium levels in the urine
hyperchloraemic
acidosis
excess acid in the blood caused by too much chloride
hypercholesteraemia high blood cholesterol levels
hypercholesterolaemia,
primary
high blood cholesterol levels that have no identifiable cause
hyperglycaemia high blood glucose levels
hyperglycaemic coma coma caused by too much blood glucose
hyperhidrosis excessive sweating
hyperkalaemia
high blood potassium levels <which can cause tiredness, muscle weakness, feeling
sick and heart rhythm disturbances>
hyperlactataemia high blood lactic acid levels
hyperlipidaemia high blood levels fat in the blood
hypernatraemia
high blood sodium levels <which can cause thirst, tiredness, confusion and
seizures>
hyperparathyroidism
when the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone, which raises
calcium levels in the blood <and can lead to bone and muscle pain, dehydration,
and fragile bones>
hyperphosphataemia high blood phosphate levels
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hyperplasia enlargement of an organ or body tissue <caused by increased cell division>
hypersensitive allergic
hypersensitivity allergic reactions
hypersensitivity
reaction, acute
systemic
allergic reaction with widespread effects such as shortness of breath, skin rashes
and low blood pressure
hypertension high blood pressure
hypertension, ocular raised pressure in the eye
hypertensive crisis sudden, dangerously high blood pressure
hyperthermia high body temperature
hyperthyroidism
an overactive thyroid gland <which can cause hyperactivity, sweating, weight loss
and thirst>
hypertonia muscle tension
hypertriglyceridaemia high blood levels of triglycerides, a type of fat
hypertrophic
granulation
see granulation, hypertrophic
hypertrophy excessive growth or increase in the number or size of cells
hyperuricaemia high blood levels of uric acid
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hypervolaemic when the amount of water in the body is higher than normal
hypoacusis hearing loss
hypoaesthesia reduced sensation to touch, pain and temperature
hypoalbuminaemia low levels of albumin, a blood protein
hypocalcaemia low blood calcium levels
hypoglycaemia low blood glucose levels
hypokalaemia
low blood potassium levels <which can cause weakness, muscle cramps, tingling
and heart rhythm disturbance>
hypomagnesaemia low blood magnesium levels
hypomania feeling excited and overactive
hyponatraemia low blood sodium levels <which can cause headache, tiredness, seizures and coma>
hypophosphataemia low blood levels of phosphates
hypoplasia incomplete development of an organ or tissue
hypoproteinaemia low blood protein levels
hypotension low blood pressure
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hypotension,
orthostatic
see hypotension, postural
hypotension, postural
feeling dizzy or lightheaded on standing or sitting up because of a drop in blood
pressure
hypothalamus a region of the brain
hypothyroidism
an underactive thyroid gland <with tiredness, weight gain, and skin and hair
changes>
hypotonia reduced muscle strength or tone
hypoxia lack of oxygen in body tissues
I
icterus see jaundice
idiopathic the cause of the disease is unknown
idiopathic
thrombocytopenic
purpura (ITP)
a disease in which people do not have enough platelets and are at high risk of
bleeding
ileum (ileal) last part of the small intestine
ileus loss of movement in bowel muscles
immediate-release
tablet
only needs definition when comparing with other types of tablet a tablet that
releases the active substance immediately
immune reactivation
syndrome
see immune reconstitution syndrome
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immune reconstitution
syndrome
when the recovering immune system starts fighting off hidden infection, causing
inflammation and damage to healthy tissue <such as the liver and thyroid gland>
immune reconstitution
inflammatory
syndrome (IRIS)
see immune reconstitution syndrome
immune system the body's natural defences
immunity protection
immunocompetent
person
person with an immune system that works normally
immunocompromised
person
person with a weakened immune system
immunodeficiency
disorder, primary
when body defences are reduced from birth
immunogenicity
general the ability to make the immune system respond to the <viruses/bacteria
etc.>;
for studies the ability of X to trigger the production of antibodies
immunoglobulins
antibodies; see antibody
as active substance blood proteins that have been extracted from donor plasma
immunological
response
triggering of the body’s defences against <an organism or a foreign substance>
immunomodulator a substance that changes the activity of the body’s defences
immunosuppressant
medicine
a medicine that reduces the activity of the immune system
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immunosuppressive reduces the activity of the immune system
immunotherapy medicines that stimulate the immune system <to kill the cancer cells>
impetigo a skin infection causing crusting scabs
inactivated (vaccine) see vaccine, inactivated
incidence the number of people who get the <disease/condition/illness> every <year>
incontinence lack of control over passing <urine><stools>
incontinence, stress
accidental leaks of urine caused by sudden pressure on the bladder <brought on,
for example, by coughing, laughing, lifting and exercising>
incontinence, urge see urinary urgency
indolent slow-growing (cancer)
induration hardening <at the injection site>
indwelling intravenous
cannula
see cannula, indwelling intravenous
infection, complicated
infection that is difficult to treat because it has spread within the body or the
patient has other conditions
infection, upper
respiratory tract
nose and throat infection
infection, urinary tract infection of the parts of the body that collect and pass out urine
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influenza flu
infusion drip
insomnia
difficulty sleeping; consider difficulty falling and staying asleep, and poor quality of
sleep
insomnia, primary
insomnia with no identified cause <including medical, mental or environmental
causes>
interstitial lung disease see lung disease, interstitial
intra-abdominal
infections
use infections within the abdomen (belly)
intracranial within the skull <in or around the brain>
intradermal <within><into> the skin
intramuscular into a muscle
intraocular into the eye
intraspinal analgesia see analgesic, intraspinal
intrathecal into the spinal canal <into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord>
intravenous<ly> into a vein
intravitreal inserted into the vitreous humour, the jelly-like fluid in the eye
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intubation insertion of a breathing tube through the nose or the mouth
intussusception
when part of the bowel becomes enfolded within another part of the bowel,
leading to a blockage
invasive disease disease <that has spread> <capable of spreading> to other parts of the body
invasive procedure
avoid if possible; consider a medical procedure that may involve piercing or cutting
into the body or inserting instruments
ions charged particles
iron overload an excess of iron in the body
ischaemia reduced blood supply
ischaemic heart
disease
see coronary heart disease
ischaemic stroke see stroke, ischaemic
J
jaundice yellowing of the skin and eyes
K
Kaposi’s sarcoma a type of cancer affecting the skin
keratitis inflammation of the cornea
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keratoconjunctivitis
sicca
dry eyes
keratopathy damage to the cornea, the transparent layer of the eye
ketoacidosis
a dangerous condition with high blood levels of ketones <that can make blood
more acidic>
L
lacerations cuts
lacrimation watery eyes
lactate dehydrogenase a marker for tissue damage
lactic acidosis a build-up of lactic acid in the body
larynx voice box
laxatives medicines that treat constipation
lean body mass body weight excluding fat
lesion consider injury or abnormality
lethargy lack of energy
leucocytes white blood cells
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leucocytosis high levels of white blood cells
leucopenia low levels of white blood cells
leukaemia cancer of the white blood cells
limb arm or leg
lipids fats
lipoatrophy loss of fat below the skin <that can change body shape>
lipodystrophy
(syndrome)
changes in the distribution of body fat
liver disease,
compensated
when the liver is damaged but is still able to work <adequately>
liver disease,
decompensated
when the liver is damaged and can no longer work adequately
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EXPLAINER
What does a liver function test involve?
Liver function testing involves a blood test to show how well the liver is working. It is not the same as a
biopsy, where a small part of liver tissue is removed via a minor surgical procedure and examined.
Several substances in the blood are measured to indicate the liver’s health. They include enzymes produced
by liver cells, bilirubin (a breakdown product of red blood cells) and albumin (a protein that circulates in the
blood). Liver function tests are helpful for guiding more investigations or for changing treatment.
The liver usually recovers quickly from damaging effects and often the tests may be abnormal for only a
short time. Also, sometimes the test may be abnormal as a result of disorders elsewhere in the body.
A rise in the levels of the following liver enzymes indicates that the liver is under stress and may lead to liver
problems:
• alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
• aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
• alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
• gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT)
Increase in the levels of ALT and AST depends on the degree of inflammation whereas increase in ALP and
GGT can suggest a blockage of the bile duct (the tube that carries bilirubin from the gall bladder to the
intestine).
A build-up of bilirubin in the liver increases the level of this yellow-coloured substance in the blood and can
cause jaundice (yellowish appearance of the skin and the whites of the eyes).
The liver makes albumin, an important protein that helps to control blood pressure and to transport various
substances round the body. Albumin level in the blood can drop if the liver is damaged.
Tests to check how long it takes blood to clot can also show up problems with the liver. This is because the
liver makes many of the proteins that help the blood to clot. If the liver can't make enough of these
proteins, the blood may not clot fast enough.
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liver impairment problems with the liver
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local anaesthetic see anaesthetic, local
long QT syndrome see QT<c> prolongation
low density lipoprotein
(LDL)-cholesterol
‘bad’ cholesterol
lower respiratory tract
infection
infection of the lungs such as bronchitis or pneumonia
lumbar puncture
inserting a needle into the lower spine <to test for or treat conditions affecting the
spinal cord and brain>
lumbar vertebra one of the bones in the lower part of the spine
lung disease,
interstitial
disorders causing scarring in the lungs
luteinising hormone
(LH)
the hormone that triggers the release of eggs during the menstrual cycle
lymphadenopathy enlarged lymph nodes, or 'swollen glands'
lymphatic system
consider a network of vessels that transport fluid from tissues through the lymph
nodes and into the bloodstream
lymphocele collection of lymph fluid usually in the lower belly
lymphocytes a type of white blood cell
lymphoma cancer of lymphocytes, white blood cells involved in the body’s defences
lymphopenia low levels of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell
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lyophilisate medicine <or food> that has been dried <by freeze drying>
lysis cell death
M
macrocytosis enlargement of red blood cells
macula the central part of the retina at the back of the eye
macular oedema see oedema, macular
macrophage a type of white blood cell
magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI)
technique for detailed scanning of internal organs <using magnetic fields>
maintenance (dose,
treatment)
consider <continuing> <ongoing><subsequent>
if only the first dose is different, then no need to describe the rest of the doses as
continuing, ongoing, etc
malabsorption poor absorption of nutrients from the digestive system
malaise substitute with feeling generally unwell
malignant cancerous
mania mental disorder with extreme excitement and overactivity
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manic episodes periods of extremely high mood
melanoma a type of skin cancer affecting cells called melanocytes
meningitis inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord
metabolites
breakdown products in the body or the substances that <a food> <a medicine> <a
chemical> is broken down into
metastasis cancer that has spread from another part of the body
metastatic has spread to other parts of the body
methaemoglobinaemia too much of an abnormal haemoglobin that cannot carry oxygen effectively
minimal residual
disease
when very few cancer cells remain in the body after treatment
mitochondria the energy-producing components within cells
modified-release
for layered tablets containing two active substances the two active substances are
released at different rates from the tablet <over a few hours>
for other modified release preparations, do not give a general definition of
modified release but give a description restricted to the medicine
monoclonal antibody
an antibody (a type of protein) designed to recognise and attach to <named
antigen> <a specific target>
see Explainer ‘What are monoclonal antibodies?’
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EXPLAINER
What are monoclonal antibodies?
Antibodies are proteins made by the body’s immune (defence) system. Typically, an antibody attaches to a
target on an invading organism like a bacterium or virus (the ‘antigen’). Antibodies can also attach to some
harmful substances or poisons. This is the first step in the body’s immune response (natural defence) against
the invading organism or harmful substance. Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory, but they act
in the same way as natural antibodies. ‘Monoclonal antibody’ means that the antibody is produced from exact
copies (clones) of a particular cell and therefore the antibodies, too, are all exactly the same. In this way it is
possible to control precisely what the antibodies will target.
Monoclonal antibodies can be used as medicines. For example, monoclonal antibodies can be designed to
attach to specific targets on cancer cells. Once attached to cancer cells, the monoclonal antibodies can make
use of the body’s immune system to destroy the cancer cells. Some monoclonal antibody medicines target
particular proteins or other toxic substances in the body and stop them working, to reduce the harmful effects
of these substances.
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monotherapy used on its own
mortality do not use, but say death rate
mucopurulent containing mucus and pus
mucosa see mucous membranes
mucositis inflammation of the moist body surfaces
mucositis, oral
inflammation of the lining in the mouth <ranging from soreness and redness to
severe ulceration>
mucous membranes moist body surfaces, such as the lining of the mouth
mucus
if an explanation is considered necessary, consider a thick bodily fluid for
lubrication and protection
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multiple myeloma a cancer of the bone marrow
multiple sclerosis (MS)
a disease of the brain and spinal cord in which inflammation destroys the
protective covering around nerves and damages the nerves
multiple sclerosis,
primary progressive
gradual start of multiple sclerosis with steady worsening of the disease
multiple sclerosis,
relapsing-remitting
when the disease causes multiple sclerosis attacks (relapses) followed by periods
with milder symptoms (remission)
multiple sclerosis,
secondary progressive
when relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis steadily worsens without any
improvement
muscle relaxants
medicines used to relax muscles <including muscles that help the patient to
breathe>
muscular atrophy see atrophy, muscular
musculoskeletal relating to the muscles and bones
mutated changed
myalgia substitute with muscle pain
myasthenia gravis a disease, causing muscle weakness
myelin protective covering of nerves
myeloablative therapy treatments that destroy the bone marrow
myelodysplastic
syndromes
when the bone marrow does not make enough healthy blood cells or platelets
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myeloid <of> <in> bone marrow
myeloproliferative
diseases
<a slow-growing cancer with> production of too many blood cells of a particular
type <that can cause blockages>
myelosuppression a condition in which the bone marrow cannot make enough blood cells
myocardial infarction heart attack <because of blockage in blood supply to a part of the heart>
myocarditis inflammation of heart muscle
myoclonic seizure see seizure, myoclonic
myopathy muscle disease causing weakness
myopia nearsightedness or short-sightedness
myositis ossificans abnormal bone growth in the muscle
N
naevus/nevus <mole> <visible area of skin damage>
naïve patients do not use, but say patients who have not been treated before
nanobody a small antibody
narcolepsy a sleep disorder that causes a person to fall asleep suddenly and unexpectedly
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narrow-angle glaucoma see glaucoma, angle-closure
nasal congestion a blocked nose
nasal polyps growths in the lining of the nose
nasogastric tube a tube through the nose to the stomach
nasopharyngitis inflammation of the nose and throat
nausea feeling sick
nebuliser
device to produce a mist <of the medicine> for the patient to breathe in <through a
mask or mouthpiece>
necrosis death of cells or tissue
neoadjuvant treatment preliminary treatment to shrink the <cancer> <tumour>
neonate
newborn baby
preferably substitute newborn baby for neonate
neonatologist doctor specialising in treating newborn babies
neoplasm cancerous or non-cancerous growths
nephritis kidney inflammation
nephrolithiasis kidney stones
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nerve block procedure to block sensation to a part of the body
neuralgia substitute with nerve pain
neuralgia, post-
herpetic
long-lasting nerve burning pain that may occur after shingles
neuroleptic malignant
syndrome
a dangerous reaction with fever, rigid muscles, changing blood pressure and coma,
usually caused by antipsychotic medicines
neurological relating to the brain or nerves
neuropathic pain see pain, neuropathic
neuropathic ulcers see ulcer, neuropathic
neuropathy nerve damage
neuropathy, peripheral nerve damage in arms and legs <causing pain or numbness, burning and tingling>
neuropathy, peripheral
motor
nerve damage causing difficulty with movement
neuropathy, sensory nerve damage affecting sensation of pain, temperature and touch
neuropsychiatric
disorders
disorders of the brain and nerves resulting in altered thinking or behaviour
neurosurgery surgery on the nervous system, including the brain
neurotransmitter
a substance that nerve cells use to communicate with neighbouring cells;
also consider a substance that relays signals from a nerve cell to another cell
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EXPLAINER
What are neurotransmitters?
Cells, typically nerve cells, communicate by releasing chemicals which attach to a neighbouring cell. These
chemicals are called neurotransmitters. There are many different neurotransmitters – some well-known ones
include acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin (also called 5-hydroxytryptamine). If enough of
these neurotransmitters reach the neighbouring cell, they provoke an effect on the cell, most often by
increasing or decreasing the cell’s activity, for example muscle contraction.
neutropenia low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell <that fights infection>
neutropenia, febrile low levels of white blood cells with fever <due to infection>
neutropenic with low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell
neutropenic fever see neutropenia, febrile
neutrophil a type of white blood cell <that fights infection>
nocturia need to pass urine at night
nonclinical studies use laboratory studies
non-Hodgkin's
lymphoma
see lymphoma
nosocomial <infection> <disease> picked up in hospital
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O
obesity being very overweight
observational studies
studies looking at the effects of medicines as they are used by patients in a real-life
setting
obstructive sleep
apnoea (syndrome)
see apnoea, obstructive sleep
ocular of eye
ocular hyperaemia see hyperaemia, ocular
ocular hypertension see hypertension, ocular
oedema swelling; consider fluid retention
oedema, cerebral swelling in the brain
oedema, macular swelling in the macula, the central part of the retina at the back of the eye
oedema, periorbital puffy eyes
oedema, peripheral swelling especially of the ankles and feet <due to fluid retention>
oesophageal
relating to the <gullet> <foodpipe> <tube that leads from the mouth to the
stomach>
oesophageal stenosis see stenosis
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oesophagitis inflammation of the <foodpipe> <tube that leads from the mouth to the stomach>
oesophagus the tube that leads from the mouth to the stomach
oestrogen a female sex hormone
oestrogen-receptor
negative tumour
where the cancer cells do not have receptors for the hormone oestrogen on their
surface
oestrogen-receptor
positive
where the cancer cells have receptors for the hormone oestrogen on their surface
oligo-ovulatory rarely produces eggs
oliguria low urine output
oncologist cancer specialist
opacity substitute with clouding
open-angle glaucoma see glaucoma, open-angle
ophthalmologist eye specialist
opioid a <painkiller><medicine> that is related to morphine
opportunistic
infections
infections seen in patients with a weakened immune system
optic nerve the nerve that sends signals from the eye to the brain
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oral mucositis see mucositis, oral
orodispersible that dissolves in the mouth
oropharynx
(oropharyngeal)
mouth and throat
orphan medicine a medicine used in rare diseases
orthopaedic relating to the bones
orthostatic on standing or sitting up
orthostatic
hypotension
see hypotension, postural
ossification bone formation
osteoarthritis swelling and pain in the joints
osteoblasts bone-forming cells
osteoclasts cells that are involved in breaking down the bone tissue
osteomalacia a condition in which bones become soft and deformed
osteomyelitis bone infection
osteonecrosis death of bone tissue
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osteopenia reduction in bone strength
osteoporosis a disease that makes bones fragile
otitis media infection of the middle ear
ovalbumin a protein in egg white
ovarian cysts sacs of fluid within the ovaries
ovarian
hyperstimulation
syndrome
when the ovaries over-respond to treatment <causing nausea, weight gain and
diarrhoea>
ovarian stimulation fertility treatment where the ovaries are stimulated to release more eggs
ovulation the release of eggs <during the menstrual cycle>
oxygen saturation a measure of oxygen levels in the blood
P
paediatrician doctor specialised in the treatment of children
Paget's disease a disease involving bone destruction and regrowth, which causes deformity
pain, neuropathic pain due to nerve damage
palliative relieving symptoms
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palliative care treatment of the symptoms of a disease that is not intended to lead to cure
palmar-plantar
erythrodysaesthesia
syndrome
see hand foot syndrome
palpitations a forceful heartbeat that may be rapid or irregular
palsy paralysis with weakness and shaking
pancreatitis inflammation of the pancreas <causing severe pain in the belly and back>
pancytopenia
<low levels of blood cells> or <low levels of all types of blood cells <including
platelets>>
pandemic when a disease spreads to a large number of people in many countries worldwide
papillomaviruses viruses that cause warts and abnormal tissue growth
paraesthesia sensations like numbness, tingling, pins and needles
parathyroid glands glands that secrete the hormone that controls blood calcium levels
Parkinson’s disease
a progressive brain disease that causes shaking and muscle stiffness and slows
movement
parkinsonism
effects similar to Parkinson’s disease such as shaking, muscle stiffness and slow
movement
paronychia nail bed infection
partial<-onset> seizure
<with <or without>
see seizure, partial<-onset> <with <or without> secondary generalisation>
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secondary
generalisation>
patent ductus
arteriosus
see ductus arteriosus, patent
patient-year the equivalent of one patient taking the medicine for one year
peak expiratory flow the maximum speed a person can breathe out
pedal arteries avoid; say 'arteries that supply blood to the feet'
PEG (percutaneous
endoscopic
gastrostomy)
a feeding tube inserted through the skin into the stomach; see also gastrostomy
pegylated attached to a chemical called polyethylene glycol
pegylated liposomes
tiny fatty spheres that are <coated with> <attached to> a chemical called
polyethylene glycol
pelvic lower abdominal
pelvic inflammatory
disease
a type of infection of the upper part of the female genital tract
peptic ulcer disease ulcers in the stomach or the duodenum
peptide a short chain of amino acids
percutaneous coronary
intervention
a procedure that unblocks blood vessels of the heart to restore its blood supply
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percutaneous
endoscopic
gastrostomy
see PEG
percutaneous
transluminal coronary
angiography (PTCA)
surgical procedure that is used to unblock narrowed coronary arteries
perennial occurs throughout the year
performance status a rating of how well a patient is (adapt as necessary)
perfusion blood circulation <through an organ>
pericardial disease disease of the membrane around the heart
pericarditis inflammation of the membrane around the heart
periocular infections infections around the eyes
periorbital oedema see oedema, periorbital
peripheral neuropathy see neuropathy, peripheral
peripheral arterial
disease
see artery disease, peripheral
peripheral motor
neuropathy
see neuropathy, peripheral motor
peripheral oedema see oedema, peripheral
peritoneal cavity The area of the belly that contains the intestines
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peritoneal dialysis see dialysis, peritoneal
peritoneum the membrane that forms the lining of the abdominal (belly) cavity
pertussis whooping cough
petechiae tiny blood spots under the skin
phaeochromocytoma a tumour of the adrenal gland
phagocytes specialised ‘scavenger’ cells of the immune system
pharmacodynamics a medicine’s effects in the body
pharmacokinetics how a medicine is absorbed, modified and removed from the body
pharyngitis sore throat
Philadelphia
chromosome positive
(Ph+)
this means that some of the patient's genes have rearranged themselves to form a
special chromosome called the Philadelphia chromosome. This chromosome
produces an enzyme that leads to the development of leukaemia
phlebitis inflammation of a vein
phlebotomy removal of some of the blood from the body
phosphenes (luminous
phenomena)
a temporary brightness in the field of vision
photodynamic therapy treatment in which a medicine is ‘switched on’ by <a special type of> light
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photophobia abnormal sensitivity of the eyes to light
photopsia flashes of light in the field of vision
photosensitising agent
a medicine ‘switched on’ by <a special type of> light <and used for photodynamic
therapy>
photosensitivity
reactions
sunburn-like reactions (following exposure to light)
pigmentation colouring of the skin, hair and eyes
pituitary gland
a gland <at the base of the brain> that controls many other hormone-producing
glands in the body
placebo dummy treatment
plaque psoriasis see psoriasis
plasma
the liquid part of the blood or the part of the blood left when the blood cells are
removed
plasma exchange
a procedure to remove <unwanted> <substances> <antibodies> from plasma (the
liquid part of the blood) <by replacing the patient’s plasma with plasma from a
donor>
plasmapheresis see plasma exchange
plasmin
an enzyme that breaks up clots <and helps restore the normal blood flow to the
heart>
platelet aggregation platelets clumping together <which can lead to a blood clot>
platelets components that help the blood to clot
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pleural effusion fluid around the lungs
pleuritic pain a type of chest pain
pneumonia infection of the lungs
pneumonitis inflammation in the lungs <causing shortness of breath and cough>
pneumonitis,
hypersensitivity
inflammation in the lungs due to an allergy <causing shortness of breath and
cough>
poliomyelitis use polio
pollakiuria abnormally frequent urination
polyuria increase in urine production
porphyria an inability to break down chemicals called porphyrins
portal vein vein leading to the liver
posterior reversible
encephalopathy
syndrome
brain swelling with <usually temporary effects such as> headache, changes in
vision, reduced consciousness and seizures
post-herpetic neuralgia
(PHN)
see neuralgia, post-herpetic
postmenopausal
women
women who have been through the menopause
postpartum after childbirth
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postural hypotension see hypotension, postural
precancerous lesions abnormal cells that could develop into cancer
preclinical studies use laboratory studies
preprandially substitute with before meals
PRES see posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
preterm substitute with premature
prevalence the number of people with the disease
primary
hypercholesterolaemia
see hypercholesterolaemia, primary
primary
immunodeficiency
syndrome
see immunodeficiency disorder, primary
primary insomnia see insomnia, primary
proctalgia anal pain
prodrug a medicine that is converted to an active form in the body
progression (disease) getting worse
progressive multifocal
leukoencephalopathy
(PML)
a rare but serious <viral> brain infection <with symptoms similar to those of a
multiple sclerosis attack>
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prolonged release
the active substance is released slowly <from the tablet> over a few <weeks/
days/hours> <after being injected>
prophylaxis prevention
prostate gland that produces fluid which nourishes and carries sperm
proteasome a system within cells that breaks down proteins when they are no longer needed
proteinuria excess protein in the urine
pruritus substitute with itching
psoriasis <a> <an inflammatory> disease causing red, scaly patches on the skin
psoriatic arthritis a disease causing inflammation in the joints in combination with psoriasis
psychomotor
hyperactivity
restlessness
psychosis altered sense of reality
pulmonary (arterial)
hypertension
high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs; consider (for brevity and if
appropriate) high blood pressure in the lungs
pulmonary artery the blood vessel that leads from the heart to the lungs
pulmonary embolism
(PE)
clot in a blood vessel in the lungs <which can cause chest pain, breathlessness and
fainting>
pulmonary fibrosis see fibrosis, pulmonary
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pulmonary nodule a small <area of damage> <lump> in the lungs
punctate keratitis spots of inflammation in the cornea
pure red cell aplasia a condition in which no red blood cells are produced
purpura purple patches like bruising
pustulation blisters
pyelonephritis kidney infection
pyrexia substitute with fever
Q
QT interval A measure of the heart’s electrical activity
QT<c> prolongation abnormal electrical activity of the heart that affects its rhythm
R
radiofrequency
ablation
see ablation, radiofrequency
radiolabelling where a radioactive tag is attached to a substance
radiotherapy treatment with radiation
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Raynaud's disease
(phenomenon,
syndrome)
severe narrowing of blood vessels in the cold <with skin turning white or blue>
receptor when used in mechanism of action consider saying receptor (target)
EXPLAINER
What are receptors, agonists and antagonists?
A receptor is a part of a cell that attaches to a specific substance and this attachment triggers a particular
change (‘response’), such as the release of messenger substances or making a protein. The substance that
attaches to the receptor to bring about the change is called an agonist. The shape of agonists makes them
just the right fit for their receptors – a ‘lock and key’ mechanism because each key will fit just one lock.
Agonists are mostly substances made in the body and include neurotransmitters (released by nerves),
hormones (released by special glands), and cytokines (released by cells such as those involved in
inflammation). But agonists can also be substances introduced into the body and many medicines work by
acting as agonists which attach to specific receptors to trigger a response.
Some substances can attach to the receptor without triggering a response. By sitting in the receptor, they
block the agonist from attaching to the receptor and having an effect. These substances are called
antagonists or blockers. Many medicines have been developed to be antagonists at particular receptors and
they prevent harmful overactivity at those receptors.
rectum the lowest part of the gut <that stores faeces>
recurrence when <symptoms/the disease> come(s) back <after treatment>
recurrent <has come back/keeps coming back> <after previous treatment>
refractory when treatment does not work
registry (patient or
disease)
ongoing collection of information about <a specific group of> patients affected by a
particular condition
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relapse when <symptoms/the disease> come(s) back <after treatment>
relapsing-remitting
multiple sclerosis
see multiple sclerosis, relapsing-remitting
remission a period without disease symptoms after treatment
renal do not use; write kidney
renal failure inability of the kidneys to work properly
renal failure, chronic long-term, progressive decrease in the kidneys’ ability to work properly
renal impairment reduced kidney function
resistant (treatment) when treatment does not work
respiratory depression when breathing is too slow and shallow
respiratory failure
inability of the lungs <to work properly><to take in oxygen and get rid of carbon
dioxide properly>
respiratory
insufficiency
difficulty breathing
respiratory system lungs and airways
respiratory tract
congestion
blocked airways
respiratory tract
infection
Infection of the airways
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response improvement related to treatment
restless legs syndrome
a disorder where the patient has uncontrollable urges to move the legs to stop
uncomfortable, painful or odd sensations, usually at night
reticulocytopenia low levels of reticulocytes, a type of immature red blood cell
retina the light sensitive membrane at the back of the eye
retinopathy damage to the retina
revascularisation restoration of blood flow
reverse transcriptase
an enzyme produced by <virus> that allows it to infect cells in the body and make
more viruses
rhabdomyolysis breakdown of muscles often leading to kidney damage
rheumatoid arthritis
a disease with painful swelling and damage of joints <caused by the immune
system mistakenly attacking healthy cells>
rhinitis stuffy and runny nose
rhinitis, allergic
stuffy and runny nose <with inflammation> caused by an allergy <e.g. hay fever or
dust-mite allergy>
rhinorrhoea substitute with runny nose
ribosomes the parts of the cell that produce proteins
rigors shaking chills
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RNA genetic material <instructions for producing proteins>
rotavirus a virus that causes gastroenteritis
rubella German measles
S
saccadic (eye
movements)
rapid eye movements
scleroderma hardening of the skin and connective tissue around internal organs
sclerosis, systemic see scleroderma
seasonal allergic
conjunctivitis
inflammation of the eyes caused by pollen in patients with hay fever
seasonal allergic
rhinitis
hay fever
secondary progressive
multiple sclerosis
see multiple sclerosis, secondary progressive
sedation <calming effect> <induce sleepiness>
seizure use seizure; do not use fit
seizure, absence
a type of seizure during which a person has a blank stare but is partly aware of
surroundings
seizure, atonic a type of seizure with very brief loss of muscle control and reduced consciousness
seizure, atypical
absence
a type of seizure during which a person has a blank stare <possibly losing
awareness of surroundings>
seizure, generalised seizure affecting most or all of the brain
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seizure, myoclonic short, shock-like jerks of a muscle or group of muscles
seizure, partial<-onset>
<with <or without>
secondary
generalisation>
epileptic seizure starting in one specific part of the brain <secondary generalisation
is when the seizure then spreads to the whole brain>
seizure, tonic brief seizure with muscle contraction
seizure, tonic-atonic a type of seizure that often involves the patient falling to the floor
seizure, tonic-clonic major seizure, including loss of consciousness
sensitivity (of disease) when a condition is treatable by a <medicine> <group of medicines>
sensitivity (test) a measure of how well a test can detect those who have a <disease> <condition>
sensory neuropathy see neuropathy, sensory
sepsis
<when bacteria and their toxins circulate in the blood leading to organ
damage><blood poisoning>
septic shock a dangerous drop in blood pressure caused by severe infection
septicaemia blood poisoning
seroconversion
development of antibodies <(proteins in the body’s defence system)> against a
specific target
serum sickness
allergic reaction to injected proteins <and blood products> <with fever, rash, joint
pain, digestive system problems and headache>
shingles a painful, blistering rash in one part of the body
shock a steep fall in blood pressure
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sinus node
the 'pacemaker' for the heart that controls the heart contractions and regulates
heart rate
sinus rhythm normal heartbeat
sinuses air-filled passageways in the bones around the nose and eyes
sinusitis inflammation of the sinuses
sleep apnoea see apnoea, sleep
sleep latency the length of time taken to fall asleep
slit lamp an instrument used by eye specialists to look into the eye
soft tissues tissues just below the skin
somnolence sleepiness
spasticity continuously stiffened muscles
specificity (test)
a measure of how well a test can distinguish people with a condition from those
who don’t have it
splenomegaly enlarged spleen
sputum phlegm
ST segment elevation an abnormal reading on the electrocardiogram (ECG)
stable angina pectoris see angina pectoris
standard of care treatment that medical experts consider most appropriate
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statin the standard type of medicine used to reduce cholesterol
status epilepticus an epileptic seizure, or series of seizures, lasting longer than 5 minutes
stem cell transplant see haematopoietic (blood) stem cell transplantation
stem cells
(haematopoietic stem
cells)
cells that can develop into different types of (blood) cells
stenosis narrowing of a <body passage> <blood vessel>
stenosis, aortic narrowing of the aorta
stent a short tube placed in an artery to prevent it closing up
steroid
preferably use corticosteroid except where glucocorticoid needs to be
distinguished from mineralocorticoid, in which case use glucocorticoid
Stevens-Johnson
syndrome
life-threatening reaction with flu-like symptoms and painful rash affecting the skin,
mouth, eyes and genitals
stomatitis inflammation of the lining of the mouth
strain
do not translate, but explain by using in context, e.g. 'the strain of flu virus
responsible for a pandemic'
stress incontinence see incontinence, stress
stroke
sudden interruption of blood flow in the brain which can cause paralysis and
unconsciousness
stroke, haemorrhagic
stroke <(sudden interruption of blood flow in the brain)> caused by bleeding in a
part of the brain
stroke, ischaemic
stroke <(sudden interruption of blood flow in the brain)> caused by blocked blood
supply to a part of the brain
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subcutaneous injection substitute with injection under the skin
subcutaneous(ly) avoid; use under the skin
sublingual tablet a tablet which is placed under the tongue where it dissolves
sulphonylureas no definition required, just say other medicines to treat diabetes
supportive care
treatment to prevent or relieve the symptoms of the disease <but not specific
treatment against the disease>
surfactant (lung)
a substance lining the airsacs which allows gases to pass easily between the lung
and blood
suspension
a liquid with solid particles in it
no need to describe when part of pharmaceutical form, e.g. suspension for
injection
sutured stitched
syncope fainting
systemic (side effects) side effects that can affect anywhere in the body
systemic treatment treatment with <a> medicine<s> given <by mouth> <or> <by injection>
systemic lupus
erythematosus
a condition in which the body’s defence system attacks normal tissue causing
symptoms such as swollen joints, tiredness and rashes
systolic blood pressure see blood pressure, systolic
T
T cells cells in the immune system
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T lymphocytes
use T cells unless it is necessary to introduce the term lymphocyte, in which case
say T lymphocytes (T cells) the first time and then use T cells
tachycardia substitute with rapid heartbeat
tachypnoea rapid breathing
tapering (dose) reducing the dose gradually
tardive dyskinesia uncontrolled movements of the face and jaw
tenosynovitis inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon
teratogen a substance that can cause birth defects in the unborn baby
teratogenicity ability to cause birth defects
thrombin a protein involved in blood clotting
thrombocytopenia low levels of blood platelets <which can lead to bleeding and bruising>
thrombocytopenic
purpura
formation of blood clots in small blood vessels, lowering the level of platelets and
causing purple spots on the skin
thromboembolism problems due to the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels
thrombolytic dissolves blood clots
thrombophlebitis inflammation in a vein leading to a blood clot <and blockage>
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thrombosis formation of blood clots in the blood vessels
thrombotic events problems due to the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels
thymus gland
a gland <in the chest> that prepares <cells> <lymphocytes> to help the body’s
defences
tibia shin bone
time to (disease)
progression
do not use; explain as the time until the disease started worsening <again>
time to treatment
failure
do not use; explain as the time until the treatment stopped working
tinnitus ringing or buzzing in the ears
tonic-atonic seizure see seizure, tonic-atonic
tonic-clonic seizure see seizure, tonic-clonic
tonic seizure see seizure, tonic
tonsillitis infection of the tonsils
tophi deposits of uric acid crystals in joints, skin or cartilage <which can cause damage>
topically on the skin
torsades de pointes abnormal electrical activity in the heart with life-threatening rhythm disturbance
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torticollis see cervical dystonia
toxic epidermal
necrolysis
life-threatening reaction with flu-like effects and blistering in the skin, mouth eyes
and genitals
toxin a harmful substance produced by infectious organisms
toxoid an inactivated toxin
trachea windpipe
transdermal patch patch to give <a medicine> <medicines> through the skin
transplant rejection when the immune system attacks the transplanted organ
trauma <severe> injury
treatment-experienced use <had been> treated for <disease> before
treatment-naïve use <had> never <been> treated for <disease>
tremor shaking
triglycerides a type of fat
trismus contraction of the jaw muscles which holds the mouth shut
tumour lysis syndrome
a serious <side effect> <complication> with rapid break down of cancer cells
<causing high levels of uric acid, potassium and phosphate>
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U
ulcer open sore
ulcer, neuropathic open sore caused by a nerve problem
ulcers, digital sores on the fingers and toes
ulcerative colitis inflammation of the large intestine causing ulceration and bleeding
unresectable cannot be removed by surgery
unstable bladder an overactive bladder, when the bladder muscles contract suddenly
upper respiratory tract
infection
see infection, upper respiratory tract
urethra the tube that leads from the bladder to the outside <of the body>
urge incontinence see urinary urgency
urgency sudden urge to pass urine
uricaemia high blood levels of uric acid
urinary retention inability to completely empty the bladder
urinary tract structures that carry urine <such as the bladder>
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urinary tract infection see infection, urinary tract
urinary urgency sudden urge to pass urine <with urine leakage>
uterus womb
urticaria itchy rash
uveitis inflammation of the uvea, the layer beneath the white of the eyeball
V
vaccine, inactivated a vaccine that uses an organism that has been killed
vaccine, live
attenuated
a vaccine that uses a weakened form of the organism
vaccine, mRNA
a vaccine that contains a molecule called mRNA which has instructions for making a
foreign protein, triggering an immune response inside the body and protecting
from infection
vaccine, viral vector
a vaccine that uses a modified version of a <different> virus to deliver instructions
for making a foreign protein to cells in the body, triggering an immune response
inside the body and protecting from infection. <The modified virus cannot
reproduce or cause disease>
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EXPLAINER
How do vaccines work?
Many illnesses are caused by harmful organisms such as bacteria and viruses. Vaccines prepare the
immune system (the body's natural defences) to fight off these organisms as soon as they enter the body,
preventing the illness from getting established.
Vaccines introduce the body to antigens, foreign substances that identify the harmful organism. As a
result, the body's immune system produces antibodies that attach to the antigen and certain blood cells
(memory B cells) develop the ability to recognise the antigen as a target for attack. In future, if an
organism that contains the antigen enters the body, the immune system already has a memory of it and
can quickly attack it.
Antigens in vaccines come in many forms such as:
• modified viruses or bacteria – the harmful organisms themselves that have been killed (inactivated) or
weakened (attenuated) so they cannot cause disease
• substances that form part of the walls or outer layer of a disease-causing organism – these can be
made in the laboratory, so the harmful organism is never present
• a toxoid – a version of a harmful substance (toxin) that some bacteria produce that has been modified
so that it doesn’t cause harm
It is also possible to use the body’s own cells to produce an antigen. In such cases the vaccine contains the
genetic instructions for making the protein. These instructions (a section of genetic code in the form of
RNA or DNA) are enclosed in a harmless virus or a fatty particle that can enter body cells and deliver the
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varicella chickenpox
varices swollen <and knotted> veins
vascular <affecting> <of> blood vessels
vasculitis inflammation of blood vessels
vasoconstrictor a substance that narrows blood vessels
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vasodilation widening of the blood vessels
vaso-occlusive crises
when blood vessels become blocked by abnormal red blood cells, restricting the
flow of blood to an organ
vasopressors medicines that increase blood pressure
ventilator a machine that helps a patient to breathe
vertebral avoid; use (of the) spine
vertigo a spinning sensation
ventricle (heart)
one of the two lower chambers of the heart <that pumps blood into the
circulation>
ventricular fibrillation see fibrillation, ventricular
vesicle spot
viral load the amount of virus found in the blood
viral vector a virus that has been altered so that it can carry genetic material into cells
visual acuity sharpness of vision
vitreous floaters small, dark shapes moving in the field of vision
volume depletion reduced amounts of fluids in the body
