A

     Asthenia (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <neurology> The lack or loss of strength and

               energy, weakness.
     

     Abnormal Vision (click here to view the Vision Archives)

               Diminished eyesight; Decreased vision; Impaired  

               vision; Blurred vision is the loss of visual acuity 

              (sharpness of vision) resulting in a loss of ability to 

               see small details. For the most severe form of visual  

               loss, see also blindness. Blind spots (scotomas) are 

               dark "holes" in the visual field in which nothing can 

               be seen. 

               Loss of visual acuity, changes in vision, blurriness, or 

               dimness of vision should always be urgently evaluated 

               by a medical professional. Changes may represent 

               primary eye disease, aging, eye trauma, or a 

               generalized (systemic) illness. 

               Whatever the cause, visual changes should never be 

               ignored. Decreased vision is a significant threat to the 

               quality of life. Professional help is always indicated, 

               but which professional to see is often a question.

     Anemia (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <hematology> Too few red blood cells in the

               bloodstream, resulting in insufficient oxygen to

               tissues and organs. 

     Angina (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <surgery> A dull, crampy centralized abdominal

               pain that occurs 15-30 minutes after a meal. 

               Associated with ischaemic bowel disease. Evaluated 

               with mesenteric arteriography

     Abnormal Coordination (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Examples include inappropriate synergies (muscle co-

               excitation), inappropriate inter limb coupling          

               (excitation of muscles in one limb when muscles in  

               the other limb are active), and hyperactive stretch 

               reflexes. Although these constraints are well known   

               in the clinic, the way in which their biomechanical  

               implications affect a person's ability to accomplish 

               the wide variety of tasks required for daily living is  

               not yet fully known.

     Arrhythmia (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology, physiology> Any variation from the 

               normal rhythm of the heart beat, including sinus 

               arrhythmia, premature beat, heart block, atrial 

               fibrillation, atrial flutter, pulsus alternans and 

               paroxysmal tachycardia. 

     Abnormal Dreaming (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               To dream of anything that is not normal--i.e. a horse  

               with feathers, a woman who hops like a kangaroo, an  

               airplane flying backwards, frequent nightmares etc.

     Aggressive Reaction (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               The aggressive behavior is usually described

               as being violent and unpredictable. This reactionary 

               and impulsive behavior frequently results in serious  

               infractions.  The aggressive behavior is a direct 

               result of being overwhelmed, anxious or agitated, 

               overreacting may only exacerbate the symptoms and 

               cause the behavior to escalate.

     Agitation (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               state of anxiety accompanied by motor  

               restlessness. 

     Anorexia (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <symptom> The uncontrolled lack or loss of the 

               appetite for food. 

     Anxiety (click here to view the Anxiety Archives)

               <psychology> The unpleasant emotional state 

               consisting of psychophysiological responses to 

               anticipation of unreal or imagined danger, 

               ostensibly resulting from unrecognized 

               intrapsychic conflict. 

               Physiological concomitants include increased  

               heart rate, altered respiration rate, sweating, 

               trembling, weakness and fatigue, psychological 

               concomitants include feelings of impending 

               danger, powerlessness, apprehension and 

               tension. 

     Atrial Fibrillation (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology> A condition where there is 

               disorganized electrical conduction in the atria, 

               resulting in ineffective pumping of blood into   

               the ventricle Acronym: AF 

     Abnormal Hepatic Function 
    (click here to view the Liver Archives)

               The liver is a complex organ with several major  

               activities, including synthesis of proteins, such as 

               albumin and the proteins necessary for normal blood 

               clotting, and the removal of potential toxins, such as 

               bilirubin and numerous drugs. The liver is also 

               important in the maintenance of normal blood sugar 

               (glucose) concentrations.

               Blood tests, therefore, are used to evaluate the ability 

               of the liver to make albumin (serum albumin) and 

               clotting factors (prothrombin time and partial 

               thromboplastin time), to remove potential toxins 

               (serum bilirubin) and to maintain normal blood sugar 

               concentrations (serum glucose). In addition, 

               measurement of certain proteins released into the 

               circulation by injured liver cells or bile duct cells can 

               be used to identify or monitor liver injury. These 

               proteins are called "liver enzymes" and include AST 

               (or SGOT), ALT (or SGPT), alkaline phosphates and 

               GGT-P.  Other blood tests include the complete blood 

               count (CBC), serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, 

               chloride, and bicarbonate) and "kidney function tests" 

               (BUN and creatinine). Blood tests are also used to 

               measure the level of certain drugs (such as 

               cyclosporine and tacrolimus) and vitamins (such as 

               vitamins A, E, and D).

     Aggravated Diabetes
     (click here to view the Hypo/Hyperglycemia Archives)

               Diabetes is a life-long disease marked by high levels 

               of sugar in the blood. It can be caused by too little 

               insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas to 

               regulate blood sugar), resistance to insulin, or both. 

     Arthralgia
    (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               <symptom> Pain in a joint. 

     Arthritis
    (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               <rheumatology> An inflammatory condition that 

               affects joints. Can be infective, autoimmune, 

               traumatic in origin. 

     Arthrosis
    (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               <orthopedics, rheumatology> A disease of a 

               joint. 

     Abnormal Platelets
    (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               Platelets are blood cells that are essential for blood 

               clotting. Platelet disorders can include inappropriate 

               number of platelets (too many or too few), or normal 

               number but inappropriate functioning of the platelets. 

               Any platelet disorder affects blood clotting.

               Drug-induced nonimmune thrombocytopenia is a 

               reduction in normally functioning platelets that can be 

               caused by certain drugs.  Platelets are important in 

               forming blood clots. Certain drugs may decrease the 

               number of platelets by damaging the bone marrow 

               where platelets are made. Decreased platelets may 

               cause easy bruising or abnormal bleeding. 

               Bleeding can be life-threatening if it occurs in the 

               brain or other vital organ. Other drugs can increase 

               the risk of bleeding by preventing platelets from 

               working normally. A common example of this is 

               aspirin.

     ARDS

               Adult respiratory distress syndrome

               <chest medicine, syndrome> A clinical

               syndrome that includes pulmonary insufficiency. It

               is a descriptive term that is applied to a variety of

               diffuse infiltrative processes in the lung. 

               Manifestations include severe shortness of breath,

               Rapid breathing and arterial hypoxaemia (low

               oxygen). Chest X-ray shows bilateral diffuse  

               infiltrates.

               Treatment most often includes mechanical  

               respiratory support. Causes include toxic gas 

               (chlorine, NO2, smoke) exposure, severe metabolic

               derangement, gastric acid aspiration, pancreatitis,

               sepsis and trauma. 

               Acronym: ARDS 

     Asthma

               <chest medicine> A disease process that is  

               characterized by paradoxical narrowing of the 

               bronchi (lung passageways) making breathing 

               difficult. 

               Treatment includes bronchodilators which are given 

               orally or delivered as an aerosol (inhaled). 

               Corticosteroids are reserved for more difficult cases. 

               Symptoms include wheezing, difficulty breathing  

               (particularly exhaling air) and tightness in the chest. 

               Factors which can exacerbate asthma include rapid 

               changes in temperature or humidity, allergies, upper 

               respiratory infections, exercise, stress or smoke  

               (cigarette). See: status asthmaticus. 

     Abnormal Renal Function
    (click here to view the Kidney Archives)

               Any number of disease states regarding kidney 

               function

     Acute Renal Failure
    (click here to view the Kidney Archives)

               <nephrology> A sudden decline in renal function may  

               be triggered by a number of acute disease processes. 

               Examples include sepsis (infection), shock, trauma, 

               kidney stones, kidney infection, drug toxicity (aspirin 

               or lithium), poisons or toxins (drug abuse) or after 

               injection with an iodinated contrast dye (adverse  

               effect).  Chronic renal failure represents a slow decline 

               in  kidney function over time. Chronic renal failure 

               may be caused by a number of disorders which 

               include long-standing hypertension, diabetes, 

               congestive heart failure, lupus or sickle cell anemia. 

               Both forms of renal failure result in a life-threatening 

               metabolic derangement. 

     Allergic Pneumonitis

               Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an inflammation in 

               the  lungs caused by exposure to an allergen (foreign 

               substance).  Acute illness may occur 4 to 6 hours 

               after the exposure. Chronic illness with changes seen 

               on chest X-ray may develop with continued 

               exposures. The chronic form of this disease may lead 

               to pulmonary fibrosis (a scarring of the lung tissue 

               that is often not reversible). 

     Anaphylactic Shock

               <immunology> A serious, often life-threatening 

               allergic  reaction that is characterized by low blood 

               pressure, shock (poor tissue perfusion) and difficulty 

               breathing. 

     Anaphylactoid Reaction

               <immunology> Resembling anaphylaxis, an immediate, 

               transient allergic reaction. 

     Abnormal EEG
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test to detect 

               abnormalities in the electrical activity of the brain.

B

     Bradycardia
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <clinical sign> A slowness of the heart beat, as

               evidenced by slowing of the pulse rate to less than 60 

               beats per minute. 

C

     Cardiovascular Disorders
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               Heart disease is any disorder that affects the heart's 

               ability to function normally. The most common cause 

               of heart disease is narrowing or blockage of the 

               coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart 

               itself. This happens slowly over time. (See coronary 

               artery disease.)

               Other causes include the following:

                  Abnormal function of the heart valves 

                  Abnormal electrical rhythm of the heart 

                  Weakening of the heart's pumping function 

                  caused by infection or toxins 

               Various forms of heart disease include:

                 Alcoholic cardiomyopathy 

                 Aortic regurgitation 

                 Aortic stenosis 

                 Arrhythmias 

                 Cardiogenic shock 

                 Congenital heart disease 

                 Coronary artery disease (CAD) 

                 Dilated cardiomyopathy 

                 Endocarditis 

                 Heart attack (myocardial infarction) 

                 Heart failure 

                 Heart tumor 

                 Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy 

                 Idiopathic cardiomyopathy 

                 Ischemic cardiomyopathy 

                 Mitral regurgitation; acute 

                 Mitral regurgitation; chronic 

                 Mitral stenosis 

                 Mitral valve prolapse 

                 Peripartum cardiomyopathy 

                 Pulmonary stenosis 

                 Stable angina 

                 Unstable angina 

                 Tricuspid regurgitation 

                 See also chest pain.

     Cardiac Failure 
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               A condition where there is ineffective pumping of 

               the heart leading to an accumulation of fluid in the 

               lungs. Typical symptoms include shortness of breath 

               with exertion, difficulty breathing when lying flat and 

               leg or ankle swelling. Causes include chronic 

               hypertension, cardiomyopathy and myocardial  

               infarction. 

     Circulatory Failure
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               Complete failure of the circulatory system resulting in 

               death.

     Central and Peripheral Nervous System Disorders
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Disorders of the the body's nervous system.  The 

               central nervous system refers to the brain, spinal 

               cord, and spinal nerves. These serve as the main 

               "processing center" for the whole nervous system, 

               and thus control all the workings of the body.  The 

               central nervous system does not include the 

               peripheral nerves in the arms, legs, muscles, and 

               organs.  The peripheral nervous system includes all   

               peripheral nerves. 

     Coma (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               A deep prolonged unconsciousness where the patient 

               cannot be aroused. This is usually as the result of a 

               head injury, neurological disease, acute hydrocephaly, 

               intoxication or metabolic derangement. 

     Convulsions
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Seizures manifested by discontinuous involuntary     

               skeletal muscular contractions, either brief contractions 

               repeated at short intervals or longer ones interrupted by 

               intervals of muscular relaxation. 

     Cardiac Arrest
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               This refers to the complete cessation of cardiac activity  

               (heartbeat). 

     Cholelithiasis
    (click here to view the Gastrointestinal Archives)

               <gastroenterology> The presence or formation of  

               gallstones. 

     Coronary Thrombosis
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               A blood clot in the lumen of a coronary artery. This is 

               the mechanism by which a myocardial infarction 

               results. A thrombus forms when microscopic cracks 

               (from the effects of atherosclerosis) occur in the 

               coronary vessel wall. These tiny cracks expose 

               collagen, thus triggering platelets to adhere to the site 

               and a blood clot to form. 

     Carcinoma
    (click here to view the Toxicity Archives)

               <oncology> A malignant new growth that arises from 

               epithelium, found in skin or, more commonly, the lining 

               of body organs, for example: breast, prostate, lung, 

               stomach or bowel. Carcinomas tend to infiltrate into 

               adjacent tissue and spread (metastasize) to distant 

               organs, for example: to bone, liver, lung or the brain. 

     Confusion
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Disturbed orientation in regard to time, place or person, 

               sometimes accompanied by disordered consciousness. 

     Coughing

     Crystalluria 
   (click here to view the Kidney Archives)

               <nephrology> The excretion of crystals in the urine,  

               producing renal irritation. 

     Cylindruria
    (click here to view the Kidney Archives)

               The presence of renal cylinders or casts in the urine. 

     Cerebrovascular Disorder
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               Of or involving the the expanded anterior portion of the 

               brain that in higher mammals overlies the rest of the 

               brain, consists of cerebral hemispheres and connecting 

               structures, and is considered to be the seat of 

               conscious mental processes and the blood vessels 

               supplying it. <stroke or cerebrovascular disease> 

     Conjunctivitis 
    (click here to view the Vision Archives)

               An obsolete term for a condition in which the palpebral 

               conjunctiva contains minute yellow concretions. 

     Cornea Damage
     (click here to view the Vision Archives)

               Damage to the corneas of the eyes.

     Cataracts
   (click here to view the Vision Archives)

               A clouding of the lens of the eye or its surrounding 

               transparent membrane that obstructs the passage of 

               light 

D

     Dry Mouth

               Abnormal dryness of the mouth due to insufficient  

               secretions -- called also xerostomia. 

     Dysphasia

               <symptom> Difficulty in swallowing. 

     Decreased Lymphocytes
   (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               A decrease of any of the colorless weakly motile cells 

               that originate from stem cells and differentiate in 

               lymphoid tissue (as of the thymus or bone marrow), 

               that are the typical cellular elements of lymph, that 

               include the cellular mediators of immunity, and that 

               constitute 20 to 30 percent of the white blood cells of 

               normal human blood -- see B CELL, T CELL 

     Decreased Glucose
    (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               The decrease of the levels of glucose found within the  

               blood stream.

     Decreased Magnesium
    (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               The decrease of the levels of magnesium found within 

               the blood stream.

     Delirium
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <neurology, psychiatry> An acute, reversible organic  

               mental disorder characterized by reduced ability to  

               maintain attention to external stimuli and disorganized 

               thinking as manifested by rambling, irrelevant or 

               incoherent speech. 

               There are also a reduced level of consciousness, 

               sensory misperceptions, disturbance of the sleep 

               wakefulness cycle and level of psychomotor activity, 

               disorientation to time, place or person and memory  

               impairment. 

               Delirium may be caused by a large number of 

               conditions resulting in derangement of cerebral 

               metabolism, including systemic infection, poisoning,  

              drug intoxication or withdrawal, seizures or head  

               trauma and metabolic disturbances such as hypoxia,  

               hypoglycemia, fluid, electrolyte or acid base  

               imbalances or hepatic or renal failure. 

               Synonym: acute confusional state, acute brain  

               syndrome. 

     Depression 
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               1. A lowering or decrease of functional activity. 

               2. <psychiatry> A mental state of depressed mood  

                    characterized by feelings of sadness, despair and  

                    discouragement. Depression ranges from normal 

                    feelings of the blues through dysthymia to major  

                    depression. 

               It in many ways resembles the grief and mourning that  

               follow bereavement, there are often feelings of low self 

               esteem, guilt and self reproach, withdrawal from 

               interpersonal contact and somatic symptoms such as  

               eating and sleep disturbances. 

     Dyspnea

               <symptom> Shortness of breath, difficult or labored  

               breathing. 

     Diplopia
    (click here to view the Vision Archives)

               <ophthalmology, symptom> The perception of two  

               images of a single object. 

               Synonym: ambiopia, double vision, binocular polyopia. 

     Dysphonia

               Altered voice production. 

     Dehydration

               The condition that results from excessive loss of body  

               water. 

               Synonym: anhydration, deaquation, hypohydration

 E    

     Edema (Oedema)

               <clinical sign> The presence of abnormally large  

               amounts of fluid in the intercellular tissue spaces of 

               the body, usually applied to demonstrable  

               accumulation of excessive fluid in the subcutaneous  

               tissues. 

               Oedema may be localized, due to venous or lymphatic 

               obstruction or to increased vascular permeability or it 

               may be systemic due to heart failure or renal disease. 

               Collections of oedema fluid are designated according  

               to the site, for example ascites (peritoneal cavity),  

               hydrothorax (pleural cavity) and hydropericardium 

               (pericardial sac). 

               Massive generalized oedema is called anasarca. 

     Ear Disorders
    (click here to view the Special Senses Archives)

               Any number of disease state affecting ones hearing

     Embolism
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology, physiology> The sudden blocking of an  

               artery by a clot or foreign material which has been 

               brought to its site of lodgment by the blood current. 

     Epistaxis (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <clinical sign> Nosebleed, hemorrhage from the nose. 

     Ejaculation Failure
    (click here to view the Urology Archives)

               Ejaculatory failure is the inability to ejaculate. It has a 

               variety of causes that include pelvic nerve damage.

               Retrograde ejaculation (ejaculating into the bladder 

               and not into the penis is not to be considered 

               ejaculation failure in this sense). 

     Encephalopathy
     (click here to view the Brain Archives)

               <neurology, pathology> Any degenerative disease of  

               the brain. 

     Eosinophilia
    (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <hematology> The formation and accumulation of an 

               abnormally large number of eosinophils in the blood. 

     Erythema Multiforme
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

               <dermatology> A rash that results from an allergic  

               response, most often secondary to a drug. The 

               rash  is described as pink-red macules (flat), that 

               may have clear centers (iris lesions) or appear as a 

               dusky violet color. 

               Erythema multiforme most often results from  

               reactions to sulpha drugs, penicillin's, phenytoin, 

               barbiturates, phenolphthalein and carbamazepine. In 

               some cases, erythema multiforme can result 

               secondary to a Herpes simplex infection or 

               Mycoplasma infection. 

     Erythema Nodosum
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

               <dermatology> A disorder characterized by the 

               formation of tender, red nodules on the front of the 

               legs. Erythema nodosum primarily affects women 

               and has been associated with certain infections: 

               coccidiomycosis, fungal infections, tuberculosis, 

               hepatitis B and syphilis. 

               A sensitivity to a particular drug (for example 

               penicillin, progestin, birth control pills) may also 

               manifest this disorder. Other disorders and 

               conditions that have been associated with erythema 

               nodosum include: leukemia, sarcoidosis, rheumatic 

               fever, ulcerative colitis and pregnancy. 

     Emotional Liability
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Uncontrolled Laughter and Crying 

F

     Fever

               <clinical sign> A rise in body temperature above 

               normal usually as a natural response to infection. 

               Typically an oral temperature greater than 100.4 

               degrees Fahrenheit constitutes a fever. 

     Facial Edema
    (click here to view the Skin Archives)

               Facial swelling involving an accumulation of fluid in the 

               face, which may extend to the neck and upper arms. 

               If the facial swelling is mild, it may be hard to 

               detect. An allergic reaction to a drug resulting in  

               conjunctivitis with swelling around the eye(s) may 

               also occur.

               Drugs including prolonged use or allergic reaction to  

               aspirin, antipyretics, penicillin, sulfa, glucocorticoids, 

               or other drugs may also be involved.

     Fungal Infections

               Tinea is a type of fungal infection of the hair, skin, or 

               nails. When it's on the skin, tinea usually begins as a 

               small red area the size of a pea. As it grows, it 

               spreads out in a circle or ring. Tinea is often called 

               "ringworm" because it may look like tiny worms are 

               under the skin. Because the fungi that cause tinea 

               (ringworm) live on different parts of the body, they are 

               named for the part of the body they infect. Scalp 

               ringworm is found on the head, and body ringworm 

               affects arms, legs, or the chest. 

               Athlete's foot is another type of fungal infection that 

               usually appears between the toes but can also affect 

               the bottom or sides of the feet. 

               Jock itch is a fungal infection of the groin and upper 

               thighs. (This usually occurs only in boys and men.)

               Candida is a yeast-like fungus. This fungus most often 

               affects the skin around the nails or the soft, moist  

               areas around body openings. Diaper rash in babies is a  

               form of candidal infection, as is thrush, the white 

               patches most often found in the mouths of kids and 

               babies. 

               Older girls and women may develop another form of 

               candidal infection in the area in and around the vagina. 

               This is called a yeast infection.

               Oral thrush is a yeast infection of the mucous  

               membranes of the mouth and tongue. Thrush is caused 

               by a fungus called Candida albicans. This organism lives 

               in your mouth and is usually kept in check by healthy 

               organisms that also live there. However, when your 

               resistance to infection is low, the fungus can grow, 

               leading to lesions in your mouth and on your tongue.

G

     Gastrointestinal System Disorders
      (click here to view the Gastrointestinal Archives)

               Disorders of the digestive system

     Gastroenteritis
     (click here to view the Gastrointestinal Archives)

               <gastroenterology, pathology> An acute inflammation 

               of the lining of the stomach and intestines, 

               characterized by anorexia, nausea, diarrhea, 

               abdominal pain and weakness, which has various 

               causes, including food poisoning due to infection 

               with such organisms as Escherichia coli, 

               Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella species, 

               consumption of irritating food or drink or 

               psychological factors such as anger, stress and  

               fear. 

               Synonym: enterogastritis

     G.I.Hemorrhage
     (click here to view the Gastrointestinal Archives)

               Gastrointestinal hemorrhage.  The digestive or      

               gastrointestinal (GI) tract includes the esophagus, 

               stomach, small intestine, large intestine or colon, 

               rectum, and anus. Bleeding can come from one or 

               more of these areas, that is, from a small area such 

               as an ulcer on the lining of the stomach or from a 

               large surface such as an inflammation of the colon. 

               Bleeding can sometimes occur without the person 

               noticing it. This type of bleeding is called occult or 

               hidden. Fortunately, simple tests can detect occult 

               blood in the stool.

     Genital Moniliasis
    (click here to view the Urology Archives)

               infection with or disease of the genitalia caused by a  

               fungus of the genus Candida -- called also monilia, 

               moniliasis 

     Genital Pruritus
    (click here to view the Urology Archives)

               Localized or generalized itching of the genitalia due 

               to irritation of sensory nerve endings from organic or  

               psychogenic causes 

     Granulocytopenia
    (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <hematology> A reduced number of white blood  

               cells in the circulation. 

H

     Hypertension
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology> Persistently high arterial blood 

                pressure. Hypertension may have no known cause 

                (essential or idiopathic hypertension) or be 

                associated with other primary diseases (secondary 

                hypertension). 

                This condition is considered a risk factor for the  

                development of heart disease, peripheral vascular 

                disease, stroke and kidney disease. 

     Hyperkinesia
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

                Abnormally increased motor function or activity, 

                hyperactivity. 

     Hypertonia
    (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               Or hypertony n, pl. Hypertonias or hypertonies: 

               hypertonicity. N. Pathology: increased rigidity, 

               tension and spasticity of the muscles. 

     Hypoaesthesia
    (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <neurology, physiology> A condition where the body 

               is much less sensitive than normal to stimulation 

               from such things as light, touch, or pain. 

               Compare: hyperaesthesia. 

     Hearing and Vestibular Disorders
    (click here to view the Special Senses Archives)

               Disorders of or relating to the vestibule of the inner  

               ear, the vestibular apparatus, the vestibular nerve, or 

               the labyrinthine sense <vestibular impulses> 

     Heart Rate and Rhythm Disorders
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               Disruption of the normal heart rhythm.

     Heart Block
    (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology, physiology> A conduction disturbance 

               that results in the inappropriate delay (or complete 

               inability) of a electrical impulse, generated in the 

               atria, to reach the ventricles (via the atrioventricular 

               node). 

               Clinical types are divided into first (nonserious), 

               second and third degree (most serious) AV blocks. 

               Some drugs may precipitate an AV block (for example 

               clonidine, methyldopa, verapamil). A permanent 

               pacemaker may be required for a third degree 

               (complete) heart block. 

     Hepatic Coma
    (click here to view the Liver Archives)

               A condition of severe end-stage liver dysfunction that 

               is accompanied by unresponsiveness (coma). A 

               feature of hepatic encephalopathy. 

     Hematology Disorders
    (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               The blood and blood forming tissues. 

     Hyperglycemia
    (click here to view the Hypo/Hyperglycemia Archives)

               <biochemistry> Too high a level of glucose (sugar) 

               in the blood, a sign that diabetes is out of control. 

               It occurs when the body does not have enough  

               insulin or cannot use the insulin it does have to 

               turn glucose into energy. Hyperglycemia may be 

               seen in diabetes mellitus, Cushing's disease and 

               Cushing's syndrome. 

               Signs of hyperglycemia are a great thirst, a dry 

               mouth, and a need to urinate often. For people with 

               insulin-dependent diabetes, hyperglycemia may 

               lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. 

     Hyperkalemia 
     (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               The presence of an abnormally high concentration 

               of potassium in the blood -- called also 

               hyperpotassemia 

     Hypoglycemia
     (click here to view the Hypo/Hyperglycemia Archives)

               Opposite of hyperglycemia.  In hypoglycemia the    

               glucose level is too low

     Hypokalemia (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               Low serum potassium (low  blood levels of 

               potassium). It may result from a number of  

               conditions. 

     Hallucination (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <symptom> A false perception occurring without  

               any true sensory stimulus. 

     Haemoptysis (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <symptom> The expectoration of blood or of blood  

               stained sputum. 

     Hypoxia (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               Reduction of oxygen supply to tissue below  

               physiological levels despite adequate perfusion of the 

               tissue by blood. (cf. Anoxia). 

     Hematuria
     (click here to view the Urology Archives)

               <clinical sign, urology> The finding of blood in the  

               urine. 

     Hemolytic Anemia (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               Hemolytic anemia is a condition of an inadequate 

               number of circulating red blood cells (anemia), 

               caused by premature destruction of red blood cells. 

               There are a number of specific types of hemolytic 

               anemia which are described individually. 

               Hemolytic anemia occurs when the bone marrow is 

               unable to compensate for premature destruction of 

               red blood cells by increasing their production. When 

               the marrow is able to compensate, anemia does not 

               occur.  There are many types of hemolytic anemia,  

               which are classified by the location of the defect. The 

               defect may be in the red blood cell itself (intrinsic 

               factor), or outside the red blood cell (extrinsic 

               factor).

I

     Increased LDH (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               LDH catalyzes the interconversion of pyruvate and 

               lactate. Exercising muscles convert (and red blood 

               cells metabolize) glucose to lactate. Lactate is 

               released into the blood and is eventually taken up by 

               the liver. The liver converts lactate back to glucose 

               and releases glucose into the blood. This glucose is 

               then taken up by resting muscles, red blood cells, 

               and other tissues.

     Impaired Concentration (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Inability to concentrate fully

     Impotence
     (click here to view the Urology Archives)

               <urology> The inability to achieve or sustain a penile 

               erection. 

     Increased International Normalized Ratio (INR)  Prothrombin Time
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               Prothrombin Time (PT) is the most common way to  

               express the clotting time of blood. PT results are 

               reported as the number of seconds the blood takes 

               to clot when mixed with a thromboplastin reagent. 

               The International Normalized Ratio (INR) was created 

               by the World Health Organization because PT results 

               can vary depending on the thromboplastin reagent 

               used. The INR is a conversion unit that takes into 

               account the different sensitivities of thromboplastins. 

               The INR is widely accepted as the standard unit for 

               reporting PT results.

     Involuntary Muscle Contractions (click here to view the CNS Archives)

     Increased Calcium (click here to view the Blood Archives)

     Increased Sweating

J

     Jaundice
     (click here to view the Liver Archives)

               <clinical sign> Yellowing of the skin (and whites of 

               eyes) by bilirubin, a bile pigment. Frequently because 

               of a liver problem. 

K

L

     Liver and Biliary System Disorders
     (click here to view the Liver Archives)

     Leukocytosis (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               A term used to describe an abnormal elevation on the 

               white blood cell count. Normal white blood cell counts 

               are variable with age and sex. Normal adult range is 4, 

               500 to 11,000 cells per cubic millimeter of blood. 

               Slightly higher counts are seen in children. Elevated 

               counts can be seen in cases of inflammation and 

               infection. 

     Leukopenia (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               Abnormal decrease in the number of white blood cells. 

     Lymphadenopathy (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <clinical sign> Swelling of the lymph nodes. 

M

     Malaise

               A vague feeling of bodily discomfort. 

     Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders
     (click here to view the Vitamin Archives)

     Mellitus

               A variable disorder of carbohydrate metabolism 

               caused by a combination of hereditary and 

               environmental factors and usually characterized by 

               inadequate secretion or utilization of insulin, by 

               excessive urine production, by excessive amounts of 

               sugar in the blood and urine, and by thirst, hunger, 

               and loss of weight

     Musculo-Skeletal System Disorders
     (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               Disorders of the Bones, Joints and Muscles

     Muscle Weakness
     (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               A vague complaint of debility, fatigue, or exhaustion 

               attributable to weakness of various muscles. The 

               weakness can be characterized as subacute or 

               chronic, often progressive, and is a manifestation of 

               many muscle and neuromuscular diseases. 

     Myalgia
     (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               <symptom> Pain in a muscle or muscles. 

     Myo, Endo, Pericardial and Valve Disorders
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               Myo:  A combining form of Gr, a muscle; as, 

               myograph, myochrome

               Endo: <prefix> Prefixes indicating within, inner,  

               absorbing, or containing. 

               Pericardial:<anatomy> Of or pertaining to 

               pericardium; situated around the heart. 

               <physiology> Pericardial fluid, a serous fluid of a pale 

               yellow color contained in the pericardium

     Myocardial Infarction
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               A term used to describe irreversible injury to heart 

               muscle. 

               Synonym: heart attack. 

               See: infarction. 

     Manic Reaction (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <psychiatry> Excitement of psychotic proportions 

               manifested by mental and physical hyperactivity, 

               disorganization of behavior and elevation of mood. 

     Mental Deficiency (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Subnormal intellectual functioning which is  

               associated with impairment of one or more of the 

               following: (1)  maturation, (2) learning, (3) social 

               adjustment. 

     Multiple Punctate Lenticular Opacities (cataracts)
     (click here to view the Vision Archives)

     Multi System Organ Failure (Death)

N

     Neoplasms

               New abnormal growth of tissue. Malignant neoplasms 

               show a greater degree of anaplasia and have the 

               properties of invasion and metastasis, compared to 

               benign neoplasms. 

     Nervousness (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Excessive excitability and irritability, with mental and 

               physical unrest. 

O

     Osteomyelitis
     (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               Chronic osteomyelitis and osteomyelitis are 

               secondary to peripheral vascular disease. Chronic 

               osteomyelitis persists or recurs, regardless of its 

               initial cause and/or mechanism and despite aggressive 

               intervention. Although listed as an etiology, peripheral 

               vascular disease is actually a predisposing factor

               Osteromyelitis is an infectious inflammatory disease of 

               bone that is often of bacterial origin and is marked by 

               local death and separation of tissue.

     Ophthalmologic Abnormalities
     (click here to view the Vision Archives)

               Vision and eye damage.

P

     Phlebitis
     (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <pathology> Inflammation of a vein. The condition is 

               marked by infiltration of the coats of the vein and the 

               formation of a thrombus. The disease is attended by 

               oedema, stiffness and pain in the affected part and in 

               the septic variety by pyaemic symptoms. 

     Pleural Effusion
     (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               A collection of fluid (or blood) in the pleural space (in 

               one side of the chest cavity around the lung). May be 

               secondary to trauma, cancer, nephrotic syndrome, 

               kidney disease, pancreatitis, congestive heart failure 

               and cirrhosis. 

     Pectoris
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               A disease marked by brief paroxysmal attacks of chest 

               pain precipitated by deficient oxygenation of the heart 

               muscles -- see UNSTABLE ANGINA;

     Parosmia (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Any disorder of the sense of smell, especially subjective  

               perception of nonexistent odors. 

     Platelet, Bleeding and Clotting Disorders (click here to view the Blood Archives)

     Purpura
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

               <clinical sign, dermatology> A small hemorrhage (up 

               to about 1 cm in diameter) in the skin, mucous 

               membrane or serosal surface, which may be caused by 

               various factors, including blood disorders, vascular 

               abnormalities and trauma. 

               Purpuric lesions may be associated with inflammation, 

               in which case they present as papular purpura or the 

               hemorrhage may not be accompanied by inflammation, 

               in which case they are macular. 

               The term also comprises a group of haemorrhagic 

               diseases characterized by the presence of purpuric 

               lesions, ecchymoses and a tendency to bruise easily, 

               which may be caused by decreased platelet counts, the 

               presence of abnormal platelets, vascular defects or 

               reactions to certain drugs. 

     Psychiatric Disorders (click here to view the CNS Archives)

     Paranoia (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <psychiatry> A psychotic disorder marked by 

               persistent delusions of persecution or delusional 

               jealousy and behavior like that of the paranoid 

               personality, such as suspiciousness, mistrust and 

               combativeness. 

               It differs from paranoid schizophrenia, in which 

               hallucinations or formal thought disorder are present, 

               in that the delusions are logically consistent and that 

               there are no other psychotic features. 

               The designation in DSM III R is delusional (paranoid) 

               disorders, with five types: persecutory, jealous, 

               erotomanic, somatic and grandiose. 

     Palpitation
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <symptom> A subjective sensation of a rapid, irregular 

               or forceful beating of the heart that the patient is  

               aware of. 

     Paresthesia (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <neurology> Abnormal neurological sensations which  

               include: numbness, tingling, burning, prickling and  

               hyperesthesia (increased sensitivity). Any abnormality 

               of sensation. 

     Paralysis (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <neurology> Loss or impairment of motor function in 

               a part due to lesion of the neural or muscular 

               mechanism, also by analogy, impairment of sensory 

               function (sensory paralysis). 

               In addition to the types named below, paralysis is 

               further distinguished as traumatic, syphilitic, toxic, 

               etc., according to its cause or as obturator, ulnar, 

               etc., according to the nerve part or muscle specially 

               affected. 

     Pancreatitis
    (click here to view the Gastrointestinal Archives)

              <gastroenterology, surgery> Acute or chronic 

               inflammation of the pancreas, which may be 

               asymptomatic or symptomatic and which is due to 

               autodigestion of a pancreatic tissue by its own 

               enzymes. 

               It is caused most often by alcoholism or biliary tract 

               disease, less commonly it may be associated with  

               hyperlipaemia, hyperparathyroidism, abdominal 

               trauma (accidental or operative injury), vasculitis or 

               uraemia. 

     Pseudomembranous Colitis
    (click here to view the Gastrointestinal Archives)

               <gastroenterology> A form of gastroenteritis which 

               occurs when there is an over-growth of Clostridium 

               difficile bacteria in the intestine. This can occur after 

               long-term treatment with broad spectrum antibiotics. 

Q

R

     Reproductive Disorders
     (click here to view the Urology Archives)

               Disorders that may affect the proper functioning of 

               the reproductive system include abnormal hormone 

               secretion, sexually transmitted diseases , and the 

               presence of cancerous tissue in the region. Such 

               problems frequently affect fertility and may 

               complicate pregnancy. 

     Resistance Mechanism Disorders

               Disorders of the bodies response to infections

     Respiratory System Disorders

               The respiratory system is made up of the organs  

               involved in the interchanges of gases, and consists of 

               the:

                  nose 

                  pharynx 

                  larynx 

                  trachea 

                  bronchi 

                  lungs 

               The upper respiratory tract includes the:

                  nose 

                  nasal cavity 

                  ethmoidal air cells 

                  frontal sinuses 

                  maxillary sinus 

                  larynx 

                  trachea 

               The lower respiratory tract includes the:

                  lungs 

                  bronchi 

                  alveoli 

     Respiratory Insufficiency

               Failure to adequately provide oxygen to cells of the 

               body and to remove excess carbon dioxide from them. 

     Respiratory Failure

               A clinical syndrome that is defined either by the 

               inability to rid the body of C02 or establish an  

               adequate blood oxygen level (PAO2). 

     Rhabdomyolysis
     (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               <pathology> The destruction of skeletal muscle cells. 

               Often the result of electrical injury, alcoholism, injury 

               (or laying in one position for an extended period of 

               time), drug side effects or toxins. 

     Rigors (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Shivering, chills are a sensation of cold from exposure 

               to a cold environment or an episode of shivering with 

               paleness and a feeling of coldness. 

     Red Blood Cell Disorders (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               A. Types of anemia

                 1. Normocytic, normochromic = normal size and 

                     shape; normal color.  Problem is decreased 

                     number of cells.

                 2. Microcytic, hypochromic = small cells; not  

                     enough hemoglobin.

                 3. Macrocytic, normochromic = abnormally large 

                     cells; normal amount of

                     hemoglobin. Cells are juvenile; not very 

                     functional.

                     Regardless of type, all anemias result in tissue  

                     hypoxia.

               B. Antecedents to anemia

                 1. Loss of RBCs (eg. hemorrhage) --> normocytic,  

                     normochromic anemia.

                 2. Increased RBC destruction ( with increased 

                     release of bilirubin during

                     excessive RBC breakdown) --> normocytic,  

                     normochromic anemia.

                 3. Intravascular hemolysis = widespread attack 

                     on and breakdown of RBCs (e.g., excessive 

                     immune response; malaria)

                     Excessive trapping by spleen --> splenomegaly  

                     (enlarged spleen)

                     Defective RBCs or hemoglobin triggers  

                     hemolysis and  trapping.

                     Sickle cell anemia: beta chain of hemoglobin is 

                     slightly abnormal; RBCs "sickle" under  

                     conditions of stress (e.g.,hypoxemia, acidosis), 

                     and are removed by the spleen or get trapped in 

                     the capillaries.  Glucose - 6 - phosphate 

                     dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency: RBCs 

                     damaged under conditions of stress 

                     (e.g., hypoxemia, acidosis) and destroyed by 

                     spleen.  Hereditary spherocytosis: abnormality 

                     of cell membrane causes RBCs to swell and 

                     become rigid; then destroyed in spleen. Aplastic 

                     anemia: bone marrow suppressed --> not  

                     enough RBCs.

                 4. Insufficient hemoglobin --> microcytic, 

                     hypochromic anemia. Alpha and beta  

                     thalassemias (alpha or beta chains of hemoglobin

                     made in insufficient amounts)

                     Lack of Fe ++to make heme due to decreased  

                     gastrointestinal intake/absorption, increased  

                     demand, or chronic bleeding.

                     note: too much iron can damage liver in those  

                     who have hemochromatosis, an autosomal  

                     recessive condition in which the gut absorbs 

                    double the usual amount of ingested iron

                5. RBCs do not mature --> macrocytic, normochromic  

                    anemia. Decreased folic acid, needed for proper  

                    maturation of RBC. RBCs are very large and  

                    juvenile. Decreased vitamin B12, needed for proper 

                    maturation of RBC. RBCs are very large and  

                    juvenile.  Pernicious anemia: a lack of intrisic factor  

                    (normally secreted by stomach) impairs absorption 

                    of Vitamin B12.C. 

               General effects of severe anemia

                1. Effects due to tissue hypoxia

                    Decreased oxygen to muscles -->

                    leg cramps

                    fatigue

                    Decreased oxygen to CNS-->

                    headache

                   dizziness / fainting

                   Decreased oxygen to heart-->angina pectoris 

                   (chest pain)

              2. Compensatory responses to anemia

                  Reflex redistribution of blood flow from skin and  

                  kidney to heart and brain.

                  skin pallor (paleness of skin and mucous membranes)

                  increase in production of erythropoietin by kidney-- 

                  RBCs, if possible, and thus possibly more hemolysis

                  increased oxygen extraction in tissues--> cyanosis.

                  Reflex increase in blood volume, heart rate  

                  (tachycardia) and cardiac output -->increased  

                 workload for the heart heart murmur

                 angina (chest pain)

                 CHF (congestive heart failure)

                 SOB (shortness of breath).

     Retina Damage
     (click here to view the Vision Archives)

               Damage to the retina of the eyes

S

     Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

               <syndrome> This is a severe form of allergic reaction  

               that most often results from a medication (for example 

               penicillins). The rash can be generalized and even 

               appear on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. 

               Stevens-Johnson syndrome is considered to be a 

               variant of erythema multiforme that results in the 

               formation of bullous (blebs) lesions on the soles of the 

               feet, palms and inside the mouth. Stevens-Johnson 

               syndrome may also occur in association with some viral 

              Infections and Mycoplasma infections. 

     Skin and Appendages Disorders
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

     Skin Disorders
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

     Skin Exfoliation
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

     Skin Ulceration
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

     Suicide (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               The act of killing oneself. 

     Sleep Disorders
     (click here to view the Insomnia Archives)

               Disturbances of usual sleep patterns or behaviors. 

     Somnolence
     (click here to view the Insomnia Archives)

               <neurology> Sleepiness, also unnatural drowsiness. 

     Substernal Chest Pain
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               Deep to the sternum. 

     Syncope

               Faintness or unconsciousness upon swallowing. This 

               is nearly always due to excessive vagal effect on the 

               heart that may already have bradycardia or 

               atrioventricular block. 

     Seizures (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Attacks of cerebral origin consisting of sudden and  

               transitory abnormal phenomena of a motor, sensory, 

               autonomic or psychic nature resulting from transient  

               dysfunction of the brain. 

     Speech Disorders (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               Long-term disorders in speaking or in perception of  

               speech. 

     Stupor (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <neurology> The partial or nearly complete  

               unconsciousness, manifested by the subject's  

               responding only to vigorous stimulation. 

               <psychiatry> A disorder marked by reduced  

               responsiveness. 

     Synovitis
     (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               <orthopedics, rheumatology> Inflammation of a  

               synovial membrane. It is usually painful, particularly 

               on motion and is characterized by a fluctuating 

               swelling due to effusion within a synovial sac. 

               Synovitis is qualified as fibrinous, gonorrhoeal, 

               hyperplastic, lipomatous, metritic, puerperal, 

               rheumatic, scarlatinal, syphilitic, tuberculosis, urethral, 

               etc. 

     Supraventricular Tachycardia
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology> An abnormally accelerated rhythm that 

               results from a rapidly firing electrical focus above the 

               A-V node. Rates may be in the rage of 150-250 

               beats/minute. 

T

     Tremor
     (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <clinical sign> An involuntary trembling or quivering. 

     Tongue Edema

               Swelling of the tonque

    Tinnitus

               <symptom> A noise in the ears, as ringing, buzzing, 

               roaring, clicking, etc. Such sounds may at times be 

               heard by others than the patient. 

     Tachycardia
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <clinical sign> The excessive rapidity in the action of  

               the heart, the term is usually applied to a heart rate  

               above 100 per minute and may be qualified as atrial, 

               junctional (nodal) or ventricular and as paroxysmal. 

     Tendinitis
     (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

               <pathology> Inflammation of tendons and of tendon  

               muscle attachments. 

     Thrombocytopenia (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               <hematology> A decrease in the number of platelets 

               in the blood, resulting in the potential for increased  

               bleeding and decreased ability for clotting. 

     Tendon Rupture
     (click here to view the Tendon Archives)

     Torsades de Pointes
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology> An atypical rapid ventricular tachycardia  

               with periodic waxing and waning of amplitude of the 

               QRS complexes on the electrocardiogram, it may be 

               self limited or may progress to ventricular fibrillation. 

U

     Urticaria
     (click here to view the Skin Archives)

               <dermatology> A transient condition of the skin, 

               usually caused by an allergic reaction, characterized 

               by pale or reddened irregular, elevated patches and  

               severe itching, hives. 

     Urinary System Disorders
     (click here to view the Urology Archives)

V

     Vertigo

               Dizziness experienced when standing upright. 

     Ventricular Fibrillation
     (click here to view the Cardiovascular Archives)

               <cardiology> A disorganized chaotic contraction of 

               the  ventricle that fails to effectively eject blood from  

               the ventricle. During ventricular fibrillation the patient  

               is unconscious and will die if emergency intervention  

               is not undertaken (defibrillation). 

     Vascular (Extracardiac) Disorders (click here to view the Blood Archives)

     Vision Disorders
     (click here to view the Vision Archives)

     Vasodilation
     (click here to view the Blood Archives)

               The increase in the internal diameter of a blood 

               vessel that results from relaxation of smooth muscle 

               within the wall of the vessel. This causes an increase 

               in blood flow, but a decrease in systemic vascular 

               resistance. 

W

     Weight Loss

               Decrease in existing body weight. 

     Withdrawal Syndrome (click here to view the CNS Archives)

               <syndrome> The development of a substance-specific 

               syndrome that follows the cessation of, or reduction 

               in, intake of a psychoactive substance that the person 

               previously used regularly; e.g., clinical syndrome of 

               disorientation, perceptual disturbance, and 

               psychomotor agitation following the cessation of 

               chronic use of excessive quantities of alcohol is 

               termed alcohol withdrawal syndrome. The syndrome 

               that develops varies according to the psychoactive 

               substance used. Common symptoms include anxiety, 

               restlessness, irritability, insomnia, and impaired 

               attention. 

     White Cell and RES Disorders (click here to view the Blood Archives)

     WBC Abnormal Count (click here to view the Blood Archives)

XYZ

Additional medical definitions can be found at

http://cancerweb.ncl.ac.uk/omd/index.html 

TABLES

Table 1
Adverse Event Reporting System Summary 11-1-1997 to present
Bone, Tendon, Muscle and Ligament Damage
Ciprofloxacin