Acute abdomen Intense abdominal pain of recent onset that may require urgent surgery.

Abdomen in plank Involuntary and generalized rigidity of the abdominal wall; sign of peritonitis.

Also: belly on plank

Abortion Interruption of pregnancy before fetal viability.

Abscess Localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue.

Skin abscess Localized collection of pus on the skin.

Alcohol withdrawal Syndrome upon cessation of alcohol consumption; Its severe form is delirium tremens.

Also: delirium tremens · delirium tremens

Abulia Lack of will or initiative to act.

Also: apathy

Achalasia Esophageal motor disorder with lack of relaxation of the lower sphincter and aperistalsis.

Acanthosis nigricans Thickened, velvety and hyperpigmented skin in folds; It is associated with insulin resistance.

Also: acanthosis

Akathisia Subjective motor restlessness with an urgent need to move; effect of neuroleptics.

Acidosis Process that tends to decrease blood pH (<7.35).

Also: acidotic

Metabolic acidosis Decrease in blood pH due to accumulation of acids or loss of bicarbonate.

Creatinine clearance Estimation of glomerular filtration rate from creatinine (e.g. Cockcroft-Gault).

Acolia Pale stools due to the absence of bile pigments.

Also: hypocolia · white stools

Acromegaly Excess growth hormone in adults, with growth of hands, feet and facial features.

Clubbing Thickening of the distal phalanges (club fingers); associated with chronic hypoxia.

Also: club fingers · digital hypocratism · clubbing

Tinnitus Perception of a sound (beep, hum) without an external source.

Also: tinnitus · tinnitus · ringing in the ears · ringing in the ear

Adenocarcinoma Carcinoma originating in the glandular epithelium.

Adenoma Benign tumor derived from the glandular epithelium.

Adenopathy Increase in the size of a lymph node.

Also: lymphadenopathy · lymphadenopathy

Adhesions Bands of scar tissue that abnormally join internal structures.

Also: flanges

Adynamia Lack of strength or initiative for movement.

Adjuvant Treatment administered after the main one to eliminate residual disease.

Aerobic Microorganism that needs oxygen to grow.

Aerophagy Excessive swallowing of air that produces distention and belching.

Aphasia Language disorder (expression or comprehension) due to brain injury.

Also: dysphasia · loss of speech

Thrush Painful superficial ulcers of the oral mucosa, rounded, with an erythematous halo.

Also: aphthous stomatitis

Agnosia Inability to recognize stimuli (objects, faces) without primary sensory deficit.

Agonist Substance that binds to a receptor and produces a biological response.

Partial agonist Drug that activates a receptor with submaximal efficacy.

Visual acuity Ability of the eye to discriminate fine details; It is measured with optotypes.

Sharp Quick start and short course.

NSAIDs Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory; inhibits cyclooxygenase (analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory).

Also: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory

Alkalosis Process that tends to increase blood pH (>7.45).

Metabolic alkalosis Elevation of blood pH due to excess bicarbonate or loss of acid.

Aldosterone Adrenal hormone that retains sodium and water and eliminates potassium.

Allele Each of the variants of a gene in the same locus.

Nasal flaring Opening of the wings of the nose with each inhalation; sign of respiratory distress in the child.

Alodynia Pain caused by a stimulus that is normally not painful.

Alopecia Loss or absence of hair in areas where it normally exists.

Also: hair loss · baldness

Hallucination Perception without real external stimulus (auditory, visual, etc.).

Also: hallucinations · hear or see things

Amaurosis Loss of vision, often transient (amaurosis fugax) due to retinal ischemia.

Also: amaurosis fugax

Amaurosis fugax Transient and monocular loss of vision; It is usually embolic.

Also: transient blindness

Amblyopia Reduction in visual acuity of an eye without organic damage ('lazy eye').

Also: lazy eye

Amenorrhea Absence of menstruation.

Also: lack of rule · no rule

Tonsillitis Inflammation of the palatine tonsils.

Also: pharyngotonsillitis

Amniorrhexis Rupture of the amniotic sac.

Also: water break · rupture of membranes

Blister Elevated lesion with liquid content >1 cm.

Also: flictena · bulla

Amputation Surgical removal of a limb or part of it.

Anabolism Set of reactions that build complex molecules and consume energy.

Anaerobic Microorganism that grows in the absence of oxygen.

Anaphylaxis Severe systemic allergic reaction with rapid onset, potentially fatal.

Also: anaphylactic shock · severe allergic reaction

Multimodal analgesia Combination of drugs with different mechanisms to control pain with fewer adverse effects.

Analgesic Drug that relieves pain.

Anamnesis Collection of the clinical history by questioning the patient.

Also: interrogation · medical record

Anaplasia Loss of cellular differentiation; aggressive malignancy trait.

Anasarca Generalized and massive edema of the subcutaneous tissue.

Also: severe generalized edema

Anastomosis Communication (natural or surgical) between two ducts or vessels.

Anemia Decrease in hemoglobin concentration or erythrocyte mass.

Also: anemic · low hemoglobin · low blood

Sickle cell anemia Hereditary hemolytic anemia due to hemoglobin S that deforms the red blood cells into a sickle shape.

Also: sickle cell disease

Anesthesia Complete loss of sensitivity in an area.

Epidural anesthesia Block by injection of anesthetic in the epidural space.

Also: epidural · peridural

General anesthesia Reversible loss of consciousness and sensitivity of the entire body.

Spinal anesthesia Regional anesthetic blockade by injection into the subarachnoid space.

Also: spinal anesthesia · spinal anesthesia · spinal · intradural

Aneuploidy Abnormal number of chromosomes.

Aneurysm Abnormal and localized dilation of the wall of a vessel or the heart.

Angina Chest pain due to myocardial ischemia without necrosis; It can be stable or unstable.

Also: angina pectoris · angor

Unstable angina Anginal pain at rest, recent or progressive, without troponin elevation; acute coronary syndrome.

Also: angina at rest

Angio-CT Tomography with intravenous contrast to study the vessels.

Also: angiotac

Angioedema Edema of the deep dermis and submucosa (lips, tongue, glottis).

Anhedonia Inability to experience pleasure.

Also: lack of pleasure

Anion gap Difference between measured cations and anions; helps classify metabolic acidosis.

Also: anion hiatus · anion gap

Anisocytosis Abnormal variation in the size of red blood cells.

Anisocoria Inequality in the size of the pupils.

Also: unequal pupils

Anorexia Loss or decrease in appetite.

Also: lack of appetite · lack of appetite

Anosmia Loss of the sense of smell.

Also: hyposmia · loss of smell

Anoxia Total absence of oxygen in a tissue.

Anxiety State of apprehension, tension and concern in the face of a perceived threat.

Also: anxious

Antagonist Substance that binds to a receptor and blocks the action of its agonist.

Anterograde That advances in the normal direction of flow or time.

Antiaggregant Drug that inhibits platelet aggregation.

Also: antiplatelet agent

Antibiogram Test that determines the sensitivity of a microorganism to antibiotics.

Anticoagulant Drug that reduces the ability of blood to clot.

Antibody Protein (immunoglobulin) that recognizes and binds to a specific antigen.

Also: immunoglobulin

Antidote Substance that counteracts the effects of a toxin or drug.

Antiemetic Drug that prevents or relieves nausea and vomiting.

Antigen Molecule capable of triggering a specific immune response.

Antipyretic Drug that reduces fever.

Antisepsia Destruction of microorganisms on living tissues using antiseptics.

Anuria Practically total absence of urine production (<100 mL/day).

Also: not urinating

Appendicitis Inflammation of the cecal appendix; common cause of acute surgical abdomen.

Apnea Transitory cessation of breathing.

Also: apneic · respiratory pause

Apoptosis Programmed and ordered cell death, without inflammation.

Apraxia Inability to execute learned movements despite retaining strength and understanding.

Corneal arch Whitish ring on the periphery of the cornea; associated with dyslipidemia or age.

Also: senile arc · gerontoxon

Arreflexia Absence of deep tendon reflexes.

Also: hyporeflexia

Arrhythmia Alteration of the normal heart rhythm (frequency or origin).

Also: dysrhythmia

Arthralgia Joint pain without objective inflammatory signs.

Also: joint pain · joint pain

Arthritis Inflammation of one or more joints (pain, swelling, heat).

Also: arthritic · swollen joint

Arthrocentesis Puncture of a joint to extract synovial fluid (diagnosis or relief).

Osteoarthritis Degenerative disease of the articular cartilage.

Also: osteoarthritis · arthritic

Ascites Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity.

Also: liquid in the abdomen · liquid belly

Asepsis Set of measures to prevent the arrival of microorganisms to an area.

Also: aseptic

Asthma Chronic inflammatory disease of the airways with reversible obstruction and bronchial hyperreactivity.

Also: asthmatic

Asthenia Feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.

Also: fatigue · tiredness · general weakness

Asterixis Coarse "flapping" tremor of the hands when extending the wrists; typical of hepatic or uremic encephalopathy.

Also: flapping · flapping tremor

Ataxia Incoordination of movements due to cerebellar or sensory impairment.

Also: ataxic · discoordination · unstable running

Atelectasis Collapse of part or all of the lung due to lack of alveolar ventilation.

Also: collapsed lung

Atheromatosis Deposition of lipid plaques and fibrosis in the arterial wall.

Also: atherosclerosis · atheroma plaque

Atherosclerosis Arterial hardening and narrowing due to lipid plaques and fibrous tissue.

Also: atheroma · atheroma plaque

Athetosis Slow, sinuous and crawling movements, especially distal.

Atopy Hereditary predisposition to produce IgE against common allergens.

Also: atopic

Atrophy Decrease in the size of a tissue or organ due to cell loss.

Also: atrophic

Aura Transient neurological symptoms that precede a migraine or epileptic seizure.

Auscultation Exploration of the body's internal sounds with the stethoscope.

Autoantibody Antibody directed against structures of the body itself.

Also: autoantibodies

Autoimmunity Immune response directed against structures of the body itself.

azotemia Elevation of nitrogen products (urea, creatinine) in the blood.

Also: azotemia · urea retention

Babinski Extension of the big toe by stimulating the sole; sign of pyramidal tract injury.

Also: Babinski sign · extensor cutaneous-plantar reflex

Bacillus Bacteria with an elongated rod shape.

Bactericide Antibiotic that destroys bacteria.

Bactemia Presence of viable bacteria in the blood.

Also: bacteria in blood

Bacteriostatic Antibiotic that inhibits bacterial growth without destroying the bacteria.

Nitrogen balance Difference between ingested and eliminated nitrogen; reflects the protein state.

Ballism Violent and wide throwing movements of a limb (hemiballismo if unilateral).

Also: hemiballism

Bendopnea Dyspnea when leaning forward; congestion in heart failure.

Benign Favorable course, without the ability to invade or metastasize.

Bilateral That affects both sides.

Bioavailability Fraction of the administered dose that reaches the active systemic circulation.

Biofilm Community of microorganisms attached to a surface and protected by a matrix.

Also: biofilm

Biopsy Obtaining a tissue sample for microscopic study.

Blastos Immature precursor cells; Its presence in blood suggests leukemia.

Also: blasto

Blepharitis Inflammation of the edge of the eyelids.

Atrioventricular block Delay or interruption of conduction between atria and ventricles.

Also: AV lock · BAV

Neuromuscular block Pharmacological muscle paralysis to facilitate intubation and surgery.

Also: muscle relaxation

Goiter Increase in the size of the thyroid gland.

Also: enlarged thyroid

Bolo Rapid administration of a full dose of drug, usually intravenous.

Borborygmus Intestinal hydro-aerial noise audible due to movement of gas and liquid.

Also: borborygmos · gut noises

Bradycardia Heart rate <60 bpm.

Also: bradycardic · slow pulse

Bradykinesia Slowness to initiate and execute movements; trait of parkinsonism.

Also: bradykinesia · slowness of movements

Bradypnea Decreased respiratory rate (<12 rpm in adults).

Bradypsychia Slowness of thought and responses.

Also: slow thinking

Bronchodilator Drug that dilates the airways and improves respiratory flow.

Air bronchogram Air-filled bronchi visible within a condensed lung area.

Bronstrap Excessive production of bronchial secretion.

Also: abundant sputum

Bronchiectasis Irreversible dilation of the bronchi with accumulation of secretions.

Bronchiectasis Permanent and irreversible dilation of the bronchi with accumulation of secretions.

Bronchiolitis Viral respiratory infection of the infant with inflammation of the bronchioles.

Bronchitis Inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, acute or chronic.

Bursitis Inflammation of a periarticular serous sac (bursa).

Calcification Deposition of calcium salts in a tissue, visible as density in the image.

Cachexia State of malnutrition and severe muscle loss associated with chronic disease.

Also: wear · consumption

Activated carbon Adsorbent that reduces the digestive absorption of many ingested toxins.

Carcinoma Cancer that originates in epithelial tissue.

Basal cell carcinoma Slow-growing skin cancer with low metastatic capacity, the most common.

Also: basalioma

Squamous cell carcinoma Squamous cell skin cancer, with the potential for metastasis.

Also: squamous cell carcinoma · epidermoid

Carcinoma in situ Malignant neoplasm that has not crossed the basement membrane (non-invasive).

Also: on site

Cardiomegaly Increase in the size of the cardiac silhouette on the chest x-ray.

Also: big heart

Cardioversion Restoration of sinus rhythm by means of synchronized electrical shock or drugs.

Karyotype Ordered set of chromosomes in a cell.

Catabolism Set of reactions that degrade molecules to obtain energy.

Waterfall Opacification of the lens that reduces vision.

Also: waterfalls · opaque crystalline

Catatonia Psychomotor alteration with immobility, mutism or sustained abnormal postures.

Catheter Flexible tube that is inserted into a vessel or cavity to infuse or drain.

Also: cannula

Cardiac catheterization Introduction of a catheter into the heart/coronary arteries for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Also: coronary angiography

Cauterization Destruction of tissue with heat or chemicals to stop bleeding or eliminate injuries.

Also: electrocautery

Cavitation Air content cavity within a lung lesion (TB, abscess, neoplasia).

Headache Headache from any cause.

Also: headache

Cellulitis Acute infection of the dermis and subcutaneous cellular tissue.

Dermatological cellulitis Acute infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue with erythema, heat and pain.

Caesarean section Removal of the fetus through surgical incision of the abdomen and uterus.

Ketoacidosis Metabolic acidosis due to accumulation of ketone bodies, typical of decompensated diabetes.

Also: diabetic ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis Acute complication of diabetes with hyperglycemia, ketosis and metabolic acidosis.

Also: CAD

Ketogenesis Production of ketone bodies from fatty acids when glucose is lacking.

Also: ketosis

Ketonuria Presence of ketone bodies in the urine.

Also: ketone bodies in urine

Chalazion Chronic, painless eyelid nodule due to obstruction of a meibomian gland.

Opening snap Early diastolic noise of mitral stenosis.

Cyanosis Bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to an increase in desaturated hemoglobin.

Also: cyanotic · bluish coloration · bruised

Central cyanosis Bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to arterial desaturation (affects the tongue).

Peripheral cyanosis Bluish discoloration of acral areas due to circulatory slowdown, with normal arterial saturation.

Sciatica Pain radiating from the path of the sciatic nerve towards the leg.

Also: sciatalgia · lumbosciatica

Keloid scar Hypertrophic scar that exceeds the limits of the original wound.

Also: keloid

Healing Wound repair process with formation of new tissue.

Cifosis Excessive curvature of the posterior convexity column (curved back).

Urinary cylinders Protein templates of the renal tubule in the sediment; Hematic ones indicate glomerulonephritis and “dirty” granular ones indicate tubular necrosis.

Also: cylindruria

Cylindruria Presence of casts in the urinary sediment; orients to renal origin.

Collateral circulation Dilated superficial veins of the abdomen due to portal hypertension (jellyfish head).

Also: jellyfish head

Cirrhosis Diffuse hepatic fibrosis with regenerative nodules and loss of function.

Also: cirrhotic

Cystitis Inflammation or infection of the bladder with dysuria and frequency.

Cytocin Signaling protein that regulates the immune and inflammatory response.

Also: cytokine · cytokines

Intermittent claudication Muscle pain in extremities when walking due to arterial ischemia that subsides with rest.

Also: pain when walking

Climaterium Transition period around menopause.

Clonus Involuntary rhythmic contractions when suddenly stretching a muscle; pyramid sign.

Also: clone

Disseminated intravascular coagulation Systemic activation of coagulation with consumption of factors and platelets and hemorrhage.

Also: CID

Coagulopathy Blood coagulation disorder.

Coco Spherical-shaped bacteria.

Also: coconuts

Cholangitis Infection of the bile duct, typically due to obstruction (stone or tumor).

Cholecystectomy Surgical removal of the gallbladder.

Cholecystitis Inflammation of the gallbladder, generally due to obstruction of the cystic duct.

Cholelithiasis Presence of stones in the gallbladder.

Also: gallstones · gallstones · stones in the gallbladder

Cholestasis Alteration of bile flow with accumulation of its components in the blood.

Also: cholestatic

Flap Mobilized tissue preserving its vascularization to reconstruct a defect.

Renal colic Acute and intense pain in the renal fossa radiating through the ureter, typical of lithiasis.

Also: renal colic

Coluria Dark urine due to the presence of conjugated bilirubin.

Also: dark urine

Comma State of deep unconsciousness without response to stimuli.

Also: comatose

Myxedema coma Severe decompensation of hypothyroidism with hypothermia and decreased consciousness.

Comedon Keratin and sebum plug in a follicle (blackhead or whitehead from acne).

Also: comedones

Diner Microorganism that inhabits the body without causing harm under normal conditions.

Also: normal flora · microbiota

Comorbidity Presence of one or more additional diseases to the main one.

Complement Plasma protein system that helps defense by lysing pathogens and opsonizing.

Also: complement system

Compulsion Repetitive behavior that the person feels obliged to perform to relieve anxiety.

Medication reconciliation Comparison of usual treatment with that prescribed to avoid errors.

Congestion Accumulation of blood in the vessels of a tissue.

Conjunctivitis Inflammation of the conjunctiva (red eye with discharge or itching).

Also: red eye

Consolidation Occupation of the alveolus by exudate, visible as lung opacity (pneumonia).

Also: condensation

Vital signs Parameters that reflect vital functions: HR, BP, RR, temperature and SatO₂.

Also: vital signs

Contracture Sustained and involuntary muscle contraction.

Also: contracted muscle

Contraindication Circumstance for which treatment should not be administered.

Contralateral On the opposite side.

Convulsion Involuntary muscle contractions due to abnormal neuronal discharge.

Also: seizure · election crisis

febrile seizure Convulsive seizure triggered by fever in young children, usually benign.

Coprolite Mass of hardened and calcified feces; can block the appendix.

Also: fecalito

Cor pulmonale Right ventricular dysfunction secondary to lung disease or pulmonary hypertension.

Also: pulmonary heart

Korea Involuntary, brief, irregular and fluid movements that 'jump' from one area to another.

Chorioamnionitis Infection of the membranes and amniotic fluid; maternal fever and fetal tachycardia.

Corticoid Drug derived from adrenal hormones with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects.

Also: glucocorticoid · corticosteroid

Cortisol Glucocorticoid of the adrenal cortex; stress hormone.

Scab Dry deposit of exudate, blood or pus on a skin lesion.

Craniotomy Surgical opening of the skull to access the brain.

Creatinine Product of muscle metabolism that is eliminated by the kidney; marks its excretory function.

Crepitation Rubbing sensation or noise when moving a joint or palpating subcutaneous emphysema.

Also: joint crunch

Crackle Thin "Velcro" rattle at the end of inspiration; edema, fibrosis or pneumonia.

Also: crackles · crackles

Crackles Fine discontinuous noises on lung auscultation due to the opening of collapsed alveoli.

Also: crawling rattles

Screening Search for disease in asymptomatic people through a test.

Also: screening · screening

Cricothyroidotomy Urgent access to the airway through the cricothyroid membrane.

Cryptorchidism Absence of descent of one or both testicles to the scrotum.

Thyrotoxic crisis Severe decompensation of hyperthyroidism with fever, tachycardia and agitation; urgency.

Also: thyroid storm

Chronic Long-lasting or prolonged evolution.

Crup Viral laryngotracheitis in children with barking cough and stridor.

Also: laryngotracheitis

Heinz Bodies Precipitates of denatured hemoglobin in the red blood cell; G6PD deficiency and oxidative hemolysis.

Howell-Jolly bodies Nuclear remains in red blood cells; indicate asplenia or hyposplenism.

ROC curve Sensitivity versus 1−specificity graph that evaluates a diagnostic test.

Also: ROC

Debit Volume of liquid drained or eliminated per unit of time.

Also: drain expense

Decubitus Lying body position (supine, prone or lateral).

Fingers of Hippocrates Clubbing: “drumstick” thickening of the distal phalanges.

Also: digital clubbing

Abdominal defense Reflex contraction of the abdominal muscles on palpation due to pain.

Macular degeneration Deterioration of the macula that affects central vision, typical of advanced age.

Also: AMD

Dehiscence Opening or separating the edges of a surgical wound.

Also: open wound

Delirium Acute confusional syndrome with fluctuating alteration of attention and consciousness.

Also: acute confusional syndrome · delirium

Dementia Acquired, progressive and persistent cognitive impairment that affects autonomy.

Description Planned withdrawal of unnecessary or risky drugs, especially in the elderly.

Dermatome Area of skin innervated by a single spinal nerve root.

Joint effusion Accumulation of fluid within a joint.

Pericardial effusion Accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac.

pleural effusion Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space.

Also: fluid in the pleura

Debridement Removal of necrotic or infected tissue to promote healing.

Peeling Detachment of the superficial layers of the skin.

Second noise splitting Audible separation of the aortic and pulmonary components of the second heart sound.

Dehydration Loss of body water that exceeds its contribution.

Also: lack of fluids

Malnutrition State due to insufficient supply of energy or nutrients.

Also: malnutrition

Placenta abruptio Premature separation of the normally inserted placenta; obstetric emergency.

Also: abruptio placentae

Retinal detachment Separation of the retina from its underlying layers; ophthalmological emergency.

Gestational diabetes Glucose intolerance that appears or is detected during pregnancy.

Diabetes insipidus Polyuria due to ADH deficiency (central) or lack of renal response (nephrogenic).

Diabetes mellitus Metabolic disease due to insulin deficiency or resistance with chronic hyperglycemia.

Also: diabetes · DM

Diaphoresis Profuse sweating.

Also: sweating · excessive sweating

Differential diagnosis Process of distinguishing between diseases that share manifestations.

Also: DD · DDx

Dialysis Extrarenal purification technique that replaces the excretory function of the kidney.

Also: hemodialysis

Dianocyte “Target” red blood cells with central hemoglobin concentration; thalassemia, liver disease, asplenia.

Also: target cell · target cell

Diarrhea Increased frequency or decreased consistency of bowel movements.

Also: diarrheal

Hemorrhagic diathesis Abnormal bleeding tendency.

Also: tendency to bleed

D-dimer Fibrin degradation product; it is elevated in thrombosis (high sensitivity, low specificity).

Also: D-dimer

Diplopia Double vision.

Also: double vision · see double

Directed Treatment adjusted to the germ and its antibiogram.

Also: targeted treatment

Dysarthria Difficulty articulating words due to motor impairment.

Also: poorly articulated speech

Dyskinesia Abnormal involuntary movements, often induced by drugs (levodopa, neuroleptics).

Dissection Tear in the wall of an artery through which blood penetrates between its layers.

Also: arterial dissection

aortic dissection Tear of the aortic intima with passage of blood to the wall and creation of a false lumen.

Dysentery Diarrhea with blood, mucus and pus due to inflammation of the colon.

Dysphagia Difficulty swallowing solids or liquids.

Also: difficulty swallowing

Oropharyngeal dysphagia Difficulty initiating swallowing with passage of the bolus into the airway.

Dysphonia Voice alteration (hoarseness) due to laryngeal disorder.

Also: hoarseness · hoarse voice

Dysphoria Unpleasant mood of discomfort, irritability or sadness.

Dysgeusia Alteration or distortion of the sense of taste.

Also: ageusia · alteration of taste

Dyslipidemia Alteration of blood lipids (cholesterol or triglycerides).

Also: dyslipidemia

Dysmenorrhea Painful menstruation.

Also: period pain · painful rules

Dyspnea Subjective feeling of lack of air or difficulty breathing.

Also: dyspneic · dyspneica · lack of air · drowning · respiratory difficulty

Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea Episodes of sudden dyspnea that wake the patient at night; suggests left heart failure.

Also: DPN

Dyspareunia Pain during sexual relations.

Also: pain in relationships

Dyspepsia Discomfort or pain in the epigastrium, often postprandial.

Dysplasia Alteration of the development or maturation of the cells of a tissue.

Dyschezia Difficulty or pain expelling stool.

Distal Further from the trunk or point of origin.

Dystocia Difficult or abnormal birth due to maternal or fetal causes.

Also: difficult birth

Dystonia Sustained muscle contractions that produce abnormal postures or movements.

Dysuria Pain or stinging when urinating.

Also: pain when urinating · stinging when urinating

Diuresis Production and elimination of urine.

Diuretics Drug that increases urine production and the elimination of sodium and water.

Diverticulitis Inflammation or infection of colonic diverticula.

Diverticulum Sac or pouch that protrudes from the wall of a hollow organ.

Also: diverticula · diverticulosis

Double blind Study in which neither the participant nor the researcher knows the treatment assignment.

Drain Directed exit of fluid or pus from a cavity, spontaneous or through a tube.

Chest drainage Tube placed in the pleura to evacuate air or liquid.

Also: chest tube

Sickling cell Sickle-shaped red blood cell, typical of sickle cell anemia.

Also: sickle cell · sickle red blood cell

Sickle cells Sickle-shaped red blood cells from sickle cell anemia.

Also: sickle cell red blood cells · sickle cells

Eczema Inflammatory dermatitis with erythema, vesicles, exudation and pruritic peeling.

Also: dermatitis · eczema

Eclampsia Onset of seizures in a pregnant woman with preeclampsia.

Echogenicity Ability of a tissue to reflect ultrasound in ultrasound.

Also: echogenic · hypoechoic · hyperechoic

Gestational age Pregnancy time counted from the last period, in weeks.

Also: weeks of gestation · EG

Edema Accumulation of fluid in the interstitium that produces swelling.

Also: edematous · swelling · liquid retention

Acute lung edema Sudden accumulation of fluid in the alveolus, usually due to left heart failure.

Also: EAP · pulmonary edema

Adverse effect Harmful and unintentional response to a drug at usual doses.

Also: adverse reaction · RAM · side effect

Rebound effect Reappearance or worsening of symptoms when suddenly stopping a drug.

Ceiling effect Dose above which the effect of a drug does not increase.

Also: therapeutic ceiling

Ephelis Sins; small pigmented macule that darkens in the sun.

Also: without

Egophony Vocal resonance of nasal timbre 'in a goat's bleat' on pulmonary condensation.

Embolism Obstruction of a vessel by an embolus (clot, air, fat) carried by blood.

Also: embolism · plunger

Emesis Forced expulsion of gastric contents through the mouth (vomiting).

Also: vomit · vomiting

Empyema Collection of pus in a preformed cavity, typically pleural.

Also: pus in the pleura

Empirical Treatment initiated according to clinical suspicion, before knowing the germ.

Also: empirical treatment

Enanthem Eruption of the mucous membranes.

Hepatic encephalopathy Neurological deterioration due to accumulation of toxins (ammonium) in liver failure.

Endemic Habitual and constant presence of a disease in a geographic area.

Also: endemic

Endocarditis Infection of the endocardium and heart valves.

Also: infectious endocarditis

Endoscopy Exploration of the interior of a cavity or duct with an endoscope.

Endotoxin Lipopolysaccharide from the wall of gram-negative bacteria that is released with their lysis.

Graves' disease Autoimmune hyperthyroidism with diffuse goiter and sometimes ophthalmopathy.

Also: Graves-Basedow

Ménière's disease Inner ear disorder with vertigo, tinnitus and fluctuating hearing loss.

Chronic kidney disease Progressive and irreversible decrease in glomerular filtration rate ≥3 months.

Also: ERC · chronic kidney failure

Emphysema Destruction of the alveolar walls with enlargement of the distal air spaces.

Subcutaneous emphysema Air accumulated in the subcutaneous cellular tissue; produces crepitus on palpation.

Enophthalmos Sinking of the eyeball into the orbit (e.g., in Horner syndrome).

Also: sunken eye

Clinical trial Prospective experimental study that evaluates an intervention in humans.

Randomized clinical trial Experimental study that randomly assigns the intervention; highest level of evidence.

Also: ECA · RCT

Enthesitis Inflammation of the insertion of tendons or ligaments in the bone.

Enuresis Involuntary emission of urine, usually at night, at an age when it should be controlled.

Also: wetting the bed

Eosinophilia Increase in eosinophils in the blood (allergy, parasites, drugs).

Also: eosinophils · high eosinophils

Epiglottitis Inflammation of the epiglottis that can obstruct the airway; urgency.

Epilepsy Predisposition to recurrent unprovoked epileptic seizures.

Also: epileptic

Epistaxis Hemorrhage from the nasal passages (bleeding from the nose).

Also: nosebleed · blood from the nose

COPD Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: persistent airflow limitation, almost always due to tobacco.

Also: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Ecchymosis Extravasation of blood in the skin larger than the petechia (bruise).

Also: hematoma · cardinal · bruise

Erythema Skin redness due to vasodilation.

Also: erythematous · reddened skin

Malar erythema Redness "in butterfly wings" of the face; typical of lupus.

Also: rash malar

Erythema nodosum Red and painful subcutaneous nodules on the anterior surface of the legs; reactive panniculitis.

Palmar erythema Redness of the palmar eminences; sign of chronic liver disease or hyperestrogenism.

Erythrocyte Blood cell that transports oxygen (red blood cell).

Also: hematie · red blood cell

Erythroderma Redness and peeling that affects more than 90% of the body surface.

Erosion Superficial loss of the epidermis that heals without a scar.

Burp Expulsion of air from the stomach through the mouth.

Also: regüeldo

Glasgow Scale Scale of 3 to 15 points that assesses the level of consciousness (ocular, verbal and motor).

Also: GCS · Glasgow · Glasgow coma

Shiver Sensation of cold with trembling that usually precedes the feverish peak.

Also: shivering

Scale Visible detachment of sheets from the stratum corneum.

Also: peeling skin

Eschar Necrotic tissue, dry and adherent, on an ulcer or burn.

Excision Complete removal of a lesion by cutting.

Also: surgical excision

Scleritis Inflammation of the sclera, painful and potentially serious.

Sclerodactyly Hardening and thickening of the skin on the fingers; typical of scleroderma.

Scoliosis Lateral deviation of the spine.

Scurvy Vitamin C deficiency disease (gingival bleeding, poor healing).

Scotoma Blind or diminished vision area within the visual field.

Also: spot in vision

Spherocyte Spherical red blood cell without central pallor, typical of spherocytosis and hemolysis.

Sprain Injury to the ligaments of a joint due to stretching or tearing.

Spasticity Speed-dependent increase in muscle tone, due to injury to the pyramidal pathway.

Also: spastic

Specificity Ability of a test to correctly identify healthy people (true negatives).

Spirometry Respiratory functional test that measures lung volumes and flows.

Splenectomy Surgical removal of the spleen.

Splenomegaly Increase in the size of the spleen.

Sputum Respiratory tree secretion expelled with cough.

Also: expectoration

Schistocytes Fragmented red blood cells; indicate mechanical hemolysis (microangiopathy).

Also: schistocyte

Schizophrenia Chronic psychotic disorder with positive, negative and cognitive symptoms.

Staging Determination of the extent of a cancer to guide treatment and prognosis.

Also: staging · staging

Steatorrhea Fatty, shiny and smelly stools due to fat malabsorption.

Also: fatty stools

Steatosis Abnormal accumulation of fat within cells, typically in the liver.

Also: fatty liver · fatty infiltration

Stenosing Which produces narrowing.

Stenosis Abnormal narrowing of an orifice, valve or duct.

Pyloric stenosis Thickening of the pylorus that causes projective vomiting in the infant.

Rattle Abnormal respiratory sound audible on lung auscultation.

Also: rattles

Rales Abnormal respiratory sounds audible on lung auscultation.

Also: crackles · lung sounds

Strabismus Misalignment of the visual axes of both eyes.

Also: eyes averted · squint

Stranguria Painful, slow, drop-by-drop urination.

Constipation Infrequent, difficult or incomplete defecation.

Also: constipation

Vinous stretch marks Wide, reddish stretch marks from hypercortisolism (Cushing's).

Stridor Acute respiratory noise due to upper airway obstruction.

Also: beep on inhalation

Case and control study Observational study that compares exposed subjects between sick and healthy, backwards.

Cohort study Observational study that follows exposed and non-exposed groups to measure incidence.

Etiology Cause or origin of a disease.

Also: etiological · cause

Euphoria Exaggerated feeling of well-being and optimism, disproportionate.

Eventration Exit of viscera through a defect in the abdominal wall covered by skin.

Evisceration Exit of the viscera through complete dehiscence of the wound.

Exanthema Generalized skin rash, often due to an infectious or drug cause.

Also: rash · eruption · rash

Excoriation Superficial loss of the epidermis due to scratching or trauma.

Also: scratch · scratch

Extrasystole Advanced heartbeat of atrial or ventricular origin.

Also: extrasystoles · advanced beat · isolated palpitation

Ventricular extrasystole Premature ventricular beat with wide QRS.

Also: EV

Extubation Removal of the endotracheal tube.

Exudate Liquid rich in proteins and cells due to increased vascular permeability (inflammation).

Facies Characteristic appearance or expression of the face associated with a disease.

Full Moon Facies Rounded and full face of Cushing's syndrome.

Mitral facies Vilaceous malar blush of severe mitral stenosis.

Confusion factor Variable associated with the exposure and the outcome that distorts their relationship.

Also: confusing · confounder

Phagocytosis Ingestion and destruction of particles or microorganisms by immune cells.

Multi-organ failure Simultaneous and progressive dysfunction of several vital organs.

Also: multiorgan failure

Pharmacokinetics Study of what the body does to the drug (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion).

Pharmacodynamics Study of the effects of the drug on the body and its mechanism of action.

Fasciculation Spontaneous, fine and involuntary contraction of a group of muscle fibers.

Also: fine muscle spasm

Fever Slight thermal elevation (37.5–38 °C).

Also: tenths of fever

Raynaud's phenomenon Episodes of digital vasospasm with color change (paleness-cyanosis-blushing) due to cold or stress.

Also: Raynaud

Phenotype Set of observable traits resulting from genotype and environment.

Phaeochromocytoma Adrenal medulla tumor that secretes catecholamines (paroxysmal HTN).

Ferritin Iron storage protein; reflects body iron stores.

Iron deficiency Iron deficiency; most common cause of anemia.

Also: iron deficiency

atrial fibrillation Supraventricular arrhythmia with chaotic atrial activation and irregular ventricular response.

Also: FA · atrial fibrillation · ACxFA

Ventricular fibrillation Chaotic and ineffective ventricular activity that produces cardiac arrest.

Also: FV

Fibrinogen Coagulation factor precursor of fibrin; also acute phase reactant.

Fibrosis Excessive deposit of connective tissue in an organ.

Also: fibrotic

Fever Elevation of body temperature above normal (≥38 °C) regulated by the hypothalamus.

Also: pyrexia · febrile

Fever of unknown origin Prolonged fever without diagnosis after an adequate initial study.

Also: FOD

Glomerular filtration Volume of plasma filtered by the glomeruli per unit of time; main index of kidney function.

Also: FG · glomerular filtration rate · TFG · clarification

Phimosis Tightness of the foreskin that prevents the glans from being revealed.

Physiopathology Study of the functional alterations produced by the disease.

Fistula Abnormal communication between two epithelialized surfaces or cavities.

Phlegmon Acute diffuse inflammation of the connective tissue, without a delimited collection of pus.

Also: diffuse cellulite

Atrial flutter Organized atrial tachyarrhythmia with 'sawtooth' waves.

Also: atrial flutter

Phobia Intense, persistent and irrational fear of a specific object or situation.

Fundus photography Exploration of the retina, macula, vessels and optic nerve with an ophthalmoscope.

Also: ophthalmoscopy

Phonophobia Abnormal intolerance or discomfort towards sounds.

Also: annoyance with noise

Fontanelle Membranous space between the bones of the infant's skull.

Also: fontanelles · mollera

Photophobia Abnormal intolerance or discomfort to light.

Also: annoyance with light

Photopsy Perception of flashes or lights without stimulation, due to retinal traction.

Also: flashes · lights

Photosensitivity Abnormal and exaggerated skin response to sunlight.

Also: photosensitive

Ejection fraction Percentage of ventricular volume expelled in each systole; cardiac function marker.

Also: FEVI

Fragility State of vulnerability of the elderly with less reserve in stressful situations.

Also: frail old man

Fremito Palpable vibration over a vessel or the precordium due to turbulent flow (palpable murmur).

Also: thrill

Pericardial rub Harsh noise due to friction of the inflamed pericardial leaves.

Also: pericardial rub

Peripheral blood smears Stained blood smear to examine the morphology of the cells.

Also: blood smear

Flight of ideas Accelerated flow of thought with jumps between topics; typical of mania.

Fulminant Extremely rapid and serious course.

Galactorrhea Milk secretion outside the lactation period.

Also: milk secretion

Galop Heart rhythm of three or four beats due to the appearance of a third or fourth sound.

Also: gallop rhythm

Gangrene Tissue necrosis due to loss of blood supply, with or without infection.

Also: dead and blackened tissue

Arterial blood gas Analysis of gases and pH in arterial blood to assess oxygenation and acid-base balance.

Also: GSA · gasometry · GA

Cardiac output Volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute.

Also: cardiac debit

Gastritis Inflammation of the gastric mucosa.

Tumor suppressor gene Gene that stops cell proliferation; Its loss promotes cancer.

Genotype Set of genes of an individual (hereditary information).

Pregnancy State and period of development of the embryo and fetus in the uterus.

Also: pregnancy

Gynecomastia Increase in breast tissue in men.

Also: breasts in men

Glaucoma Progressive optic neuropathy, usually with elevated intraocular pressure.

Glomerulonephritis Inflammation of the renal glomeruli, of immunological cause in many cases.

Glucagon Pancreatic hormone that raises blood glucose; insulin antagonist.

Gluconeogenesis Synthesis of glucose from non-glycidic precursors (amino acids, lactate).

Glucosuria Presence of glucose in the urine.

Also: sugar in the urine

Heatstroke Failure of thermoregulation with very high temperature and neurological involvement.

Drop Arthritis due to the deposition of monosodium urate crystals, with very painful crises.

Gramnegative Bacteria that does not retain violet and stains pink in the Gram stain.

Also: negative gram

Grampositive Bacteria that retains the violet dye in the Gram stain (thick wall).

Also: gram positive

Granuloma Organized aggregation of macrophages due to chronic inflammation (e.g. tuberculosis).

Also: granulomatous

Hamartoma Malformation of disorganized mature tissue typical of the organ where it resides.

Haptoglobin Protein that captures free hemoglobin; decreases in hemolysis.

Helminth Parasitic worm (nematodes, cestodes, trematodes).

Also: helminths · worms

Hemarthrosis Bleeding within a joint; typical of hemophilia.

Also: blood in the joint

Hematemesis Vomiting blood due to upper digestive bleeding.

Also: vomiting blood · vomiting blood

Hematie Red blood cell; blood cell that transports oxygen.

Also: erythrocyte · red blood cell · red blood cells

Hematocrit Proportion of blood volume occupied by red blood cells.

Hematopoiesis Process of formation of blood cells in the bone marrow.

Also: hemopoiesis

Hematochezia Emission of fresh red blood from the rectum (lower digestive bleeding).

Also: rectal bleeding · red blood in stool · red blood from the anus

Hematuria Presence of blood in the urine.

Also: blood in urine · bloody urine

Hemianopsia Loss of half the visual field.

Also: hemianopia · loss of half a visual field

Hemiparesis Weakness of a hemibody.

Also: weakness on one side

Hemiplegia Complete paralysis of one hemibody.

Also: paralysis on one side

Blood culture Blood culture to detect microorganisms (bacteremia).

Also: blood cultures

Hemophilia Hereditary disease due to deficiency of a coagulation factor (VIII or IX).

Hemoglobin Protein of red blood cells that transports oxygen; Its decrease defines anemia.

Also: Hb

Glycosylated hemoglobin Reflects the average blood glucose of the last 2-3 months; controls diabetes.

Also: HbA1c · glycated hemoglobin

Hemogram Analysis that quantifies blood cells (red, white series and platelets).

Also: complete blood count

Hemolysis Destruction of erythrocytes with release of hemoglobin.

Also: hemolytic

Hemoptysis Expectoration of blood from the lower respiratory tract.

Also: blood when coughing · sputum with blood · cough up blood

massive hemoptysis Expectoration of large volume of blood; vital emergency due to asphyxiation.

Hemostasis Set of mechanisms that stop bleeding.

Also: hemostatic

Hemothorax Accumulation of blood in the pleural cavity.

Also: blood in the pleura

Hepatomegaly Increase in liver size.

Also: large liver

Hepatotoxic Which can damage the liver.

Also: hepatotoxicity · toxic to the liver

Autosomal dominant inheritance Pattern in which one copy of the altered allele is enough to manifest the trait.

Also: autosomal dominant

Autosomal recessive inheritance Pattern in which two copies of the altered allele are needed to manifest the trait.

Also: autosomal recessive

X-linked inheritance Trait determined by genes on the X chromosome (affects men and women differently).

Also: linked to X

Hernia Protrusion of a viscus or tissue through a hole or weak area of the wall.

Herniorrhaphy Surgical repair of a hernia.

Also: hernioplasty

Herpes zoster Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus with painful vesicular eruption in a dermatome.

Also: shingles · zoster

Heterozygous That has two different alleles of a gene.

Hydrocele Accumulation of fluid around the testicle.

Hydronephrosis Dilation of the pelvis and renal calyces due to obstruction of urine flow.

Hyphema Presence of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye.

Also: ocular hyphema · blood in the eye

Hyperaldosteronism Excess aldosterone with HBP and hypokalemia.

Hyperalgesia Increased painful response to a normally painful stimulus.

Hyperbilirubinemia Elevation of bilirubin in the blood; manifests as jaundice.

Also: high bilirubin

Hypercalcemia High concentration of calcium in the blood.

Also: high calcium

Hypercapnia Increase in the partial pressure of CO₂ in the blood (PaCO₂ >45 mmHg).

Also: hypercapnic

Hyperdense That on CT appears lighter (dense) than the reference tissue.

Hyperemia Increased blood flow and redness of tissue.

Hyperesthesia Abnormal increase in sensitivity to stimuli.

Hyperphosphatemia High phosphate concentration in the blood.

Hyperglycemia High blood glucose concentration.

Also: hyperglycemia · high sugar · high blood glucose

Hyperinflation Air trapping with diaphragmatic flattening; typical of COPD.

Also: pulmonary hyperinflation

Hyperlactatemia Elevated blood lactate; marker of tissue hypoperfusion.

Also: high lactate

Hypernatremia High sodium concentration in the blood (>145 mEq/L).

Also: high sodium

Hyperparathyroidism Excess parathyroid hormone with tendency to hypercalcemia.

Hyperpyrexia Very high fever, above 41 °C.

Also: very high fever

Hyperplasia Increase in the number of cells in a tissue.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia Non-malignant enlargement of the prostate that obstructs urinary flow.

Also: HBP · enlarged prostate

Hyperkalemia High potassium concentration in the blood (>5.5 mEq/L).

Also: hyperkaliemia · hyperkalemia · high potassium · hyperkalemia

Hyperprolactinemia Elevation of prolactin; causes galactorrhea, amenorrhea or sexual dysfunction.

Hyperkeratosis Thickening of the stratum corneum of the skin.

Hyperreflexia Exalted deep tendon reflexes; suggests injury to the first motor neuron.

Hypersensitivity Exaggerated and harmful immune response to an antigen.

Also: allergy

Hypertension Maintained elevation of blood pressure (≥140/90 mmHg in office).

Also: HTA · hypertension · high voltage · high pressure

Intracranial hypertension Increased pressure inside the skull (headache, vomiting, papilledema).

Also: HTIC · intracranial hypertension

Portal hypertension Increased pressure in the portal venous system, usually due to cirrhosis.

Pulmonary hypertension Elevated pressure in the pulmonary artery.

Also: HTP

Hyperthermia Increase in body temperature due to failure of thermoregulation, not mediated by pyrogens.

Malignant hyperthermia Severe hypermetabolic reaction to certain anesthetics in susceptible individuals.

Hyperthyroidism Excessive production of thyroid hormones.

Also: thyrotoxicosis

Hypertonia Increased muscle tone.

Also: hypertonic

Hypertrophy Increase in the size of the cells of a tissue or organ.

Hyperuricemia Elevation of uric acid in the blood; predisposes to gout.

Also: high uric acid

Hyperventilation Excessive ventilation that reduces PaCO₂ (respiratory alkalosis).

Hypoacusis Decreased hearing capacity.

Also: deafness · hearing loss

Hypocalcemia Low calcium concentration in the blood.

Also: low calcium

Hypodense That on CT appears darker than the reference tissue.

Hypoesthesia Decrease in sensitivity.

Also: loss of sensitivity

Hypoglycemia Decrease in blood glucose below normal (<70 mg/dL).

Also: hypoglycemia · low sugar · sugar drop

Hypogonadism Insufficient production of sex hormones by the gonads.

Hypomagnesemia Low magnesium concentration in the blood.

Also: low magnesium

Hyponatremia Low sodium concentration in the blood (<135 mEq/L).

Also: low sodium

Hypoparathyroidism Parathyroid hormone deficiency with tendency to hypocalcemia.

Hypokalemia Low potassium concentration in the blood (<3.5 mEq/L).

Also: hypokalemia · hypokalemia · low potassium · hypokalemia

Hypotension Abnormal decrease in blood pressure that can compromise perfusion.

Also: hypotensive · low voltage · low pressure

Hypothermia Decrease in core body temperature below 35 °C.

Hypothyroidism Insufficient production of thyroid hormones.

Hypotonia Decreased muscle tone.

Also: hypotonic

Hypoventilation Insufficient ventilation that increases PaCO₂ (respiratory acidosis).

Hypoxemia Decrease in the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO₂).

Also: hypoxemic

Hypoxia Insufficient oxygen supply to the tissues.

Also: hypoxic

Hirsutism Excess hair with a male pattern in women.

Also: excess hair

Homeostasis Maintenance of the internal balance of the organism despite external changes.

Homozygous That has two identical alleles of a gene.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone Pituitary hormone that regulates thyroid production; thyroid function marker.

Also: TSH · thyrotropin

Parathyroid hormone Hormone that raises calcium in the blood by mobilizing it from the bone and kidney.

Also: PTH · parathohormone

Iatrogenic Caused by medical action or treatment.

Also: iatrogenesis

Jaundice Yellow discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to increased bilirubin.

Also: jaundiced · yellow coloration · yellow skin

Neonatal jaundice Yellow discoloration of the newborn due to elevated bilirubin.

Stroke Acute neurological deficit due to vascular cause (ischemic or hemorrhagic).

Also: ACV · stroke · stroke

Delusional idea False and irreducible belief that does not yield to evidence.

Also: delirium · delirious

Suicidal ideation Thoughts about taking your own life, with or without a plan.

Also: autolytic ideation · suicidal thoughts

Idiopathic Of unknown cause.

Also: of unknown cause

Idiosyncrasy Abnormal and unpredictable reaction to a drug due to the particularities of the individual.

Ileus Stop of intestinal transit, mechanical (obstruction) or functional (paralytic).

Also: paralytic ileus · intestinal paralysis · intestinal obstruction

Impetigo Superficial and contagious skin infection with meliceric scabs.

Incidence Number of new cases of a disease in a given period and population.

Incision Surgical cutting of tissues with a sharp instrument.

Urinary incontinence Involuntary loss of urine.

Bishop index Cervical score that predicts the success of labor induction.

Also: Bishop

Body mass index Weight divided by height squared; classifies weight status.

Also: BMI

Heart attack Necrosis of a tissue due to sudden interruption of its blood supply.

Also: tissue death due to lack of irrigation

Acute myocardial infarction Necrosis of the cardiac muscle due to coronary occlusion and prolonged ischemia.

Also: MI · myocardial infarction · SCACEST · SCASEST

Infiltrator Radiological occupation of the lung parenchyma by fluid, cells or material.

Inflammation Defensive tissue response to aggression (heat, redness, tumor, pain).

Also: inflammatory

ST depression ST segment depression; suggests subendocardial ischemia.

Also: ST descent

Jugular engorgement Visible distention of neck veins; sign of increased central venous pressure.

Also: IY · jugular venous pressure · engorged jugular veins

Graft Tissue transplanted from one place to another to repair an area.

Immunodeficiency Deficiency of the immune system that increases susceptibility to infections.

Also: immunocompromised · immunosuppression · low defenses

Immunosuppressant Drug that reduces or suppresses the immune system response.

Inotropic Which modifies the force of contraction of the heart.

INR International normalized ratio; Standardizes prothrombin time to control anticoagulation.

Also: international normalized ratio

Insidious Slow and overlapping onset, without striking symptoms at the beginning.

Insomnia Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or non-restorative sleep.

Heart failure Inability of the heart to pump enough blood for the body's needs.

Also: IC · heart failure

Acute kidney failure Sudden and potentially reversible deterioration of kidney function.

Also: acute kidney failure · acute kidney injury · AKI · LRA

Respiratory failure Failure of the respiratory system to adequately oxygenate or eliminate CO₂.

Adrenal insufficiency Insufficient production of adrenal cortex hormones (cortisol).

Also: Addison's disease · Addison

Valvular insufficiency Incomplete closure of a valve that allows blood to reflux.

Also: valvular regurgitation

Insulin Pancreatic hormone that reduces blood glucose by facilitating the entry of glucose into cells.

Insulinoma Tumor of the insulin-secreting pancreas that causes hypoglycemia.

Intention to treat Analysis that keeps participants in their assigned group even if they do not complete the treatment.

Also: ITT

Intertrigo Inflammation of the skin folds due to friction and humidity, often superinfected.

Confidence interval Range in which, with a certain probability, the real value of a parameter is found.

Also: IC

Intervalo QT largo Prolongation of ventricular repolarization; predisposes to torsade de pointes.

Also: Prolonged QT

Intoxication Set of harmful effects due to exposure to a toxic substance.

Also: poisoning

Intubation Introduction of a tube into the trachea to secure the airway and ventilate.

Also: orotracheal intubation

Intestinal intussusception Introduction of an intestinal segment inside another; cause of obstruction in children.

Also: intussusception

Ipsilateral On the same side.

Also: homolateral

Ischemia Reduction of blood flow to a tissue that compromises its oxygen supply.

Also: ischemic

Critical ischemia Severe ischemia of a limb with pain at rest or trophic lesions.

Migraine Intense, throbbing and recurrent headache, typically unilateral; synonymous with migraine.

Also: migraine

Hampton's Hump Triangular pleural-based opacity due to pulmonary infarction in thromboembolism.

Also: Hampton hump

Kernicterus Encephalopathy due to deposition of unconjugated bilirubin in the basal ganglia of the newborn.

Koilonychia Spoon nails (concave), associated with iron deficiency.

Also: koilonychia

Kussmaul (breathing of) Deep and rapid breathing to compensate for metabolic acidosis.

Kwashiorkor Severe protein malnutrition with edema, hepatomegaly and depigmentation.

Emotional lability Sudden and unjustified changes in mood.

Lactate Product of anaerobic metabolism; its elevation indicates tissue hypoperfusion.

Also: lactic acid

Laparoscopy Minimally invasive abdominal surgery with a camera and instruments through small incisions.

Also: laparoscopic

Laparotomy Surgical opening of the abdominal cavity.

Laryngitis Inflammation of the larynx, with characteristic dysphonia.

Leukemia Cancer of hematopoietic cells with proliferation of abnormal leukocytes.

Leukocyte Blood defense cell (white blood cell).

Also: white blood cell

Leukocytosis Increase in the number of leukocytes in the blood.

Also: high white blood cells

Leukocoria Pupillary reflex white; In children, retinoblastoma must be ruled out.

Also: white pupil

Leukoerythroblastosis Presence in blood of myeloid precursors and nucleated red blood cells; suggests spinal infiltration.

Also: leukoerythroblastic reaction

Leukonychia Whitish coloration of the nail; It may be punctate or diffuse (hypoalbuminemia).

Also: white nails

Leukopenia Decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood.

Also: low white blood cells

Leucorrea Whitish vaginal discharge, normal or pathological depending on its characteristics.

Also: vaginal discharge

Leukostasis Microvascular obstruction due to very high leukocyte counts; hematological emergency.

Yeast Unicellular fungus (e.g. Candida).

Ligation Closure of a vessel or duct with a suture or device.

Kerley B Lines Peripheral horizontal lines on the radiograph due to edema of the interlobular septa.

Also: Kerley lines

Lymphocyte Leukocyte responsible for specific immunity (B and T lymphocytes).

Also: lymphocytes

Lymphocytosis Increase in the number of lymphocytes in the blood.

Lymphoma Malignant neoplasia of the lymphoid tissue (nodes).

Lymphopenia Decrease in the number of lymphocytes in the blood.

Lipotimia Imminent feeling of fainting without losing consciousness.

Also: presyncope

Lichenification Thickening of the skin with accentuation of its folds due to chronic scratching.

Livedo reticularis Reticulated and purplish skin pattern due to alteration of skin flow.

Also: livedo · marble skin

Lochios Normal vaginal discharge after childbirth.

Lordosis Curvature of the spine with a posterior concavity, pathologically increased.

Low back pain Pain in the lumbar region of the back.

Also: low back pain · lower back pain

Dislocation Complete and permanent loss of contact between the surfaces of a joint.

Mast Flat skin color change, without relief.

Also: flat spot

General malaise Nonspecific sensation of being sick.

Also: MEG · feel bad

Evil With the capacity for local invasion and metastasis.

Janeway Spots Painless macules on palms and soles due to septic emboli from endocarditis.

Mania Abnormally elevated or irritable mood with hyperactivity and grandiosity.

Also: maniac

Tumor marker Measurable substance in blood that can indicate the presence or evolution of a tumor.

Also: tumor markers

Therapeutic margin Concentration range between the effective and toxic doses.

Also: therapeutic window · therapeutic index

Mastoiditis Infection of the mastoid cells, complication of otitis media.

Dullness Muffled percussion sound indicating absence of air (condensation or spillage).

Also: mate

Meconium First stools of the newborn, dark in color.

Bone marrow Tissue inside the bones where blood cells are produced.

Melanoma Malignant tumor of melanocytes; the most aggressive skin cancer.

Melanonychia Dark pigmented band on the nail; requires ruling out subungual melanoma.

Also: pigmented nail

Melanosis coli Dark pigmentation of the colonic mucosa due to laxative abuse.

Mane Black and smelly stools due to digested blood (upper digestive bleeding).

Also: black stools

Meningism Signs of meningeal irritation (neck stiffness, Kernig, Brudzinski).

Also: meningeal signs

Menopause Definitive cessation of menstruation due to exhaustion of ovarian function.

Menorrhagia Excessive menstrual bleeding in quantity or duration.

Also: hypermenorrhea · abundant rule

Meta-analysis Statistical combination of the results of several studies on the same question.

Metaplasia Reversible replacement of one type of mature tissue for another; may precede dysplasia.

Metastasis Dissemination of tumor cells at a distance from the primary tumor.

Also: metastatic

Meteorism Abdominal distension due to excess intestinal gas.

Also: abdominal distension · flatulence

Metrorrhagia Uterine bleeding outside the menstrual period.

Also: bleed between rules

Myalgia Muscle pain.

Also: muscle pain

Mydriasis Pupil dilation.

Also: dilated pupil

Multiple myeloma Malignant proliferation of plasma cells with bone and kidney damage.

Also: myeloma

Cardiomyopathy Primary heart muscle disease (dilated, hypertrophic, restrictive).

Also: cardiomyopathy

Myocarditis Inflammation of the heart muscle, often viral.

Myoclonus Sudden, brief and involuntary muscle jerk.

Also: myoclonus · muscle jerk

Myodesopsias Perception of floating points or threads in the visual field ('floaters').

Also: floaters

Miosis Contraction (decrease in size) of the pupil.

Also: contracted pupil

Myxedema Hard, non-pitting edema due to accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in severe hypothyroidism.

Mosaicism Presence of two or more cell lines with different genetic makeup in an individual.

Multiparous Woman who has had several births.

Mutation Change in the DNA sequence.

Also: genetic variant

Nadir Lowest point of a parameter after treatment (e.g., white blood cell count after chemotherapy).

Nausea Unpleasant sensation of imminent need to vomit.

Also: nausea

Necrosis Unprogrammed cell death due to injury, with accompanying inflammation.

Also: necrotic

Nephrolithiasis Presence of stones in the kidney or urinary tract.

Also: renal lithiasis · kidney stones · kidney stones

Nephrotoxic Which can damage the kidney.

Also: nephrotoxicity · toxic to the kidney

Neoadjuvant Treatment administered before the main treatment (e.g. surgery) to shrink the tumor.

Neoplasia Abnormal and uncontrolled cell proliferation (tumor).

Also: neoplastic · tumor

Pneumomediastinum Presence of free air in the mediastinum.

Pneumonia Infection of the lung parenchyma with alveolar occupation.

Also: pneumonia · lung infection

Pneumoperitoneum Presence of free air in the peritoneal cavity; suggests hollow viscus perforation.

Also: abdominal open air

Pneumothorax Presence of air in the pleural space that collapses the lung.

Neuropathy Disease or damage to the peripheral nerves.

Also: polyneuropathy · peripheral neuropathy

Neutrophil First-line leukocyte against bacterial infections.

Also: neutrophils

Neutropenia Decrease in neutrophil count; increases the risk of infection.

Also: low neutrophils

Febrile neutropenia Fever in a patient with neutropenia; urgency due to high risk of serious infection.

Nevus Benign proliferation of melanocytes (mole).

Also: nevus · lunar

Nocturia Need to urinate during the night, interrupting sleep.

Also: urinate at night

Nystagmus Rhythmic and involuntary eye movements.

Also: eyes that tremble

Air-hydro levels Air-liquid interfaces in intestinal loops, typical of obstruction.

Also: air-hydro level

Nodule Palpable solid lesion, rounded and >1 cm, located in the dermis or hypodermis.

Also: bulk

Lung nodule Rounded opacity ≤3 cm surrounded by parenchyma; >3 cm is called mass.

Thyroid nodule Focal lesion in the thyroid; the majority benign, but requires ruling out malignancy.

Osler nodes Painful nodules on the palms due to endocarditis (immune phenomenon).

Nosocomial Relating to an infection acquired in the hospital setting.

Also: in-hospital · hospital infection · in-hospital

Nulliparous Woman who has not given birth.

Number needed to process Number of patients that must be treated to avoid an adverse event.

Also: NNT

Enteral nutrition Provision of nutrients to the digestive tract through a tube when the oral route is not possible.

Parenteral nutrition Supply of nutrients intravenously when the digestive tract cannot be used.

Obesity Excess body fat (usually BMI ≥30 kg/m²) with health risk.

Also: obese

Fetal death Death of the fetus in utero after a certain gestational age.

Also: fetal death

Obsession Intrusive, recurring and unwanted thought that generates anxiety.

Odds ratio Odds ratio of exposure between cases and controls.

Also: odds ratio · OR

Odynophagia Pain when swallowing.

Also: pain when swallowing

Dentalgia Tooth or dental pain.

Also: toothache

Off-label Use of a drug outside the approved indications in the technical sheet.

Also: out of indication

Raccoon eyes Bilateral periorbital ecchymosis due to skull base fracture.

Also: hematoma on mask

Oligoamnios Decreased amount of amniotic fluid.

Also: little amniotic fluid

Oligohydramnios Reduction of amniotic fluid (ILA <5 cm or bag <2 cm).

Oligomenorrhea Infrequent menstruations, with cycles longer than 35 days.

Also: scarce rules

Oliguria Decrease in urine output (<400 mL/day).

Also: urinate little

Oncogene Gene whose abnormal activation favors the development of cancer.

Pathological Q wave Wide and deep Q wave indicating previous myocardial necrosis.

Onycholysis Detachment of the nail from its bed.

Also: nail detached

Onychomycosis Fungal nail infection.

Opisthotonos Spasm with hyperextension of head and trunk arched backwards (e.g., tetanus).

Opportunist Microorganism that causes disease by taking advantage of a weakened host defense.

Opsonization Coating of a pathogen with antibodies or complement to facilitate its phagocytosis.

Orthopnea Dyspnea that appears in the supine position and improves when standing up; typical of heart failure.

Also: drowning when lying down · choking when lying down

Sty Acute infection of an eyelid gland, painful and localized.

Osmolarity Concentration of osmotically active particles in a liquid.

Also: osmolality

Osteomalacia Deficient bone mineralization in adults, usually due to vitamin D deficiency.

Osteopenia Decrease in bone density less than osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis Decrease in bone mass with deterioration of microarchitecture and risk of fracture.

Also: fragile bones

Ostomy Surgical opening of a hollow viscus to the skin (colostomy, ileostomy).

Also: stoma

Otalgia Ear pain.

Also: ear pain

Otitis Inflammation or infection of the ear (external or middle).

Otitis Externa Inflammation or infection of the external auditory canal.

Also: swimmer's ear

Otitis media Inflammation or infection of the middle ear.

Otorrhagia Blood coming out of the ear.

Also: ear bleeding

Otorrhea Exit of secretion through the external auditory canal.

Also: ear suppuration · ear suppuration

Ototoxic Which damages hearing and balance.

Also: toxic to the ear

Ovulation Release of the mature egg from the ovary.

Palliative Treatment aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, not at curing.

Also: palliative care

Paleness Pale discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, often due to anemia or vasoconstriction.

Also: pale

Palpation Physical exploration through touch of body structures.

Palpitations Conscious and annoying perception of the heartbeat.

Pancytopenia Simultaneous decrease in the three hematological series (red, white blood cells and platelets).

Central pancytopenia Decline in the three series due to bone marrow failure.

Pancreatitis Inflammation of the pancreas; Its most frequent causes are gallstones and alcohol.

Pandemic Epidemic that spreads to several countries or continents.

Panhypopituitarism Global deficiency of anterior pituitary hormones.

Also: hypopituitarism

Papilledema Edema of the optic disc, usually due to intracranial hypertension.

Wheal Solid, elevated skin lesion <1 cm.

Also: grain · little ball on the skin

Paracentesis Puncture of the abdominal cavity to extract ascitic fluid.

Cardiorespiratory arrest Sudden cessation of effective cardiac and respiratory function.

Also: cardiac arrest · CRP

Paraparesis Weakness of both lower extremities.

Paraplegia Paralysis of both lower extremities.

Paresis Weakness or partial loss of muscle strength.

Paresthesia Abnormal sensation of tingling, numbness or stinging.

Also: tingling · numbness

Pathogenesis Mechanism by which a disease develops.

Also: pathogenic

Interstitial pattern Radiological involvement of the pulmonary interstitium (reticular, nodular or honeycomb).

Penetrance Proportion of individuals with a genotype that express the associated phenotype.

Natriuretic peptide Hormone (BNP/NT-proBNP) that is elevated in heart failure due to chamber overload.

Also: BNP · NT-proBNP

Percentile Position of a value with respect to a reference population (e.g. child weight/height).

Percussion Exploration by tapping the body surface to assess the sound of the underlying organs.

Perfusion Blood supply to a tissue or organ.

Also: hypoperfusion

Pericardiocentesis Puncture of the pericardium to drain an effusion; urgent in plugging.

Pericarditis Inflammation of the pericardium; It usually presents with chest pain that changes with posture.

Incubation period Time between exposure to a pathogen and the appearance of symptoms.

Also: incubation

Peritonitis Inflammation of the peritoneum, usually due to infection or perforation.

Petequia Puntiform hemorrhage (< 2 mm) in the skin or mucous membranes that does not disappear under pressure.

Also: petechiae · red dots

Petechial Related to hemorrhagic punctate lesions that do not disappear under vitro pressure.

Petechiae Small pinpoint hemorrhages on the skin or mucous membranes.

Also: petechia

Pyelonephritis Infection of the renal parenchyma and pelvis, with fever and lower back pain.

Pyrosis Ascending retrosternal burning sensation due to gastroesophageal reflux.

Also: heartburn · acidity

Piuria Presence of leukocytes (pus) in the urine.

Also: pus in urine

Plate Elevated, flattened lesion with a large surface (>1 cm).

Placebo Substance without pharmacological effect used as a control in clinical trials.

Placenta previa Implantation of the placenta on or near the cervical os; causes painless bleeding.

Platelet Blood cell fragment essential for hemostasis.

Also: thrombocyte · platelets

Plegia Complete loss of muscle strength (paralysis).

Also: paralysis · plegic

Poikilocytosis Abnormal variation in the shape of red blood cells.

Pollakiuria Frequent, small volume urinations.

Also: urinate often

Polydipsia Excessive thirst and increased fluid intake.

Also: excessive thirst · very thirsty

Polyphagy Abnormal increase in appetite and intake.

Also: excessive hunger

Polypharmacy Simultaneous use of multiple drugs (usually ≥5).

Polyglobulia Increase in erythrocyte mass and hematocrit.

Also: polycythemia · erythrocytosis · thick blood

Polyhydramnios Increased amount of amniotic fluid.

Also: excess amniotic fluid

Polyp Protrusion of the mucosa towards the lumen of a hollow organ.

Also: polyps

Adenomatous polyp Polyp with malignant potential, precursor to colorectal cancer.

Polyuria Increased urine volume (>3 L/day).

Also: urinate a lot · increased diuresis

Bearer Person who harbors a microorganism without presenting disease.

Afterload Resistance that the ventricle must overcome to eject blood.

Also: afterload

Posology Dose schedule, frequency and duration of a medication.

Also: guideline · dosage

Prostration State of great weakness and physical depression.

Preload Degree of stretching of the ventricle at the end of filling (end-diastolic volume).

Preeclampsia De novo HTN with proteinuria (or other organ involvement) after the 20th week of gestation.

Prematurity Birth before completing 37 weeks of gestation.

Also: premature · preterm

Oncotic pressure Osmotic pressure exerted by plasma proteins (retains liquid in the glass).

Also: colloidosmotic pressure

Positive pressure at the end of expiration Pressure maintained in the airway at the end of expiration to prevent alveolar collapse.

Also: PEEP

Prevalence Proportion of individuals in a population who suffer from a disease at a given time.

First hepatic step Metabolism of the drug in the liver after intestinal absorption, which reduces its bioavailability.

Also: first pass effect

Procalcitonin Marker that is elevated especially in bacterial infections and sepsis.

Prodrome Initial and non-specific phase of a disease, prior to the typical symptoms.

Also: prodromal · prodromal phase

Prodrug Inactive compound that is transformed into the active drug in the body.

Prophylaxis Measures aimed at preventing an illness or complication.

Also: prophylactic · prevention

Prolactin Pituitary hormone that stimulates milk production.

Prolapse Descent or departure of an organ from its normal position.

Also: fall of an organ

Prone Lying face down.

Also: prone position

Prognosis Forecast about the probable evolution of a disease.

Reserved forecast Clinical situation in which the evolution is uncertain or unfavorable.

Proptosis Abnormal protrusion of the eyeball.

Also: exophthalmos

C-reactive protein Acute phase reactant that increases in inflammation and infection.

Also: CRP (C-reactive protein)

Proteinuria Abnormal excretion of proteins in the urine.

Also: proteins in urine

Protozoan Single-celled eukaryotic microorganism, sometimes parasitic (e.g. Plasmodium).

Also: protozoa

Proximal Closest to the trunk or point of origin.

Coombs test Test that detects antibodies on red blood cells (immune hemolytic anemia).

Also: Coombs · antiglobulin test

Prurigo Eruption of very itchy papules.

Itching Skin sensation that causes a desire to scratch (itch).

Also: itching · itching

Psychosis Loss of contact with reality, with hallucinations or delusional ideas.

Also: psychotic

Psoriasis Chronic inflammatory disease with erythematous plaques covered with silvery scales.

Also: psoriatic

Ptyalism Excessive saliva production.

Also: sialorrhea · excessive salivation

Ptosis Drop of the upper eyelid.

Also: eyelid ptosis · drooping eyelid

Puerperium Postpartum period until the recovery of the maternal organism.

Also: postpartum · quarantine

Pujo Painful and urgent desire to defecate; accompanies rectal tenesmus.

Alternating pulse Alternation of pulse width beat to beat; suggests severe ventricular dysfunction.

Paradoxical pulse Decrease >10 mmHg in systolic pressure during inspiration; typical of cardiac tamponade.

Lumbar puncture Extraction of cerebrospinal fluid by puncture of the lumbar subarachnoid space.

Also: PL

Basophilic stippling Blueish granules in the red blood cells; lead poisoning, thalassemia and sideroblastic anemias.

Apgar score Assessment of the newborn (0-10) at one minute and at 5 minutes of life.

Also: Apgar · Apgar test

Fist-kidney percussion Pain when percussing the lumbar fossa; suggests pyelonephritis or renal colic.

Also: Giordano

Purple Skin lesion due to blood extravasation that does not disappear under vitro pressure.

Palpable purple Raised purpuric lesions that are palpable; suggest small vessel vasculitis.

Pustule Elevated lesion with purulent content.

Also: pimple with pus

Expiratory moan Sound when an infant with respiratory distress breathes out.

Keloid Hypertrophic scar that grows beyond the edges of the original wound.

Burn Tissue injury due to heat, chemistry, electricity or radiation.

Keratitis Inflammation of the cornea.

Actinic keratosis Premalignant skin lesion due to chronic sun exposure.

Chylothorax Accumulation of lymph (chyle) in the pleural cavity.

Chemotaxis Directed migration of cells (e.g., leukocytes) following a chemical gradient.

Chemotherapy Cancer treatment with cytotoxic drugs.

Cyst Closed cavity with liquid or semisolid content lined with epithelium.

Rhabdomyolysis Destruction of skeletal muscle with release of myoglobin; risk of kidney damage.

Radiculopathy Involvement of a nerve root with pain, paresthesia or weakness in its territory.

Radiolucent That lets the X-rays pass through and looks dark on the x-ray (air).

Also: radiotransparent

Radiopaque That absorbs X-rays and looks white on the x-ray (bone, metal, contrast).

Also: radiopaque · dense

Radiotherapy Cancer treatment with ionizing radiation.

Rickets Deficient bone mineralization in children due to vitamin D deficiency.

Likelihood ratio How much a test result modifies the probability of disease (likelihood ratio).

Also: likelihood ratio · LR

Acute phase reactant Protein whose concentration changes with inflammation (CRP, ferritin, fibrinogen).

Highlight Increase in the signal/density of a structure after administering contrast.

Also: contrast pickup

Contrast enhancement Increase in the signal/density of a tissue after administering contrast; indicates vascularization.

Also: contrast pickup

Hypercaptive enhancement Increased uptake area in scintigraphy or PET; suggests high metabolic activity.

Feedback Reintroduction of nutrients after prolonged fasting; can trigger refeeding syndrome.

Recurrence Reappearance of an illness after a period of improvement.

Also: relapse

Moro's Reflection Response of reaching out and hugging the infant when faced with a startle; normal primitive reflex.

Also: startle reflex

Red reflection Orange-reddish retinal reflex; Its absence (leukocoria) requires ruling out retinoblastoma or cataract.

Gastroesophageal reflux Retrograde passage of gastric contents to the esophagus that produces symptoms or lesions.

Also: GERD · reflux

Hepatojugular reflux Sustained increase in jugular engorgement by compressing the liver; suggests right heart failure.

Vesicoureteral reflux Retrograde flow of urine from the bladder to the ureter; promotes infections and kidney damage.

Refractory That does not respond to the usual treatment.

Also: resistant to treatment

Naegele's Rule Calculation of the probable delivery date: date of the last period + 7 days − 3 months + 1 year.

Also: Naegele

Regurgitation Return of gastric or esophageal contents to the mouth without the effort of vomiting.

Remission Decrease or disappearance of signs of a disease (e.g. cancer).

Resection Surgical removal of an organ, tissue or part of them.

Also: exeresis

Insulin resistance Reduced tissue response to insulin, a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

Also: insulin resistance

Antimicrobial resistance Ability of a microorganism to survive an antimicrobial that previously eliminated it.

Also: multi-resistance · antibiotic resistance

Intrauterine growth restriction Fetus that does not reach its expected growth potential.

Also: CIR · RCIU

Resuscitation Set of maneuvers to restore circulation and breathing.

Also: resuscitation · CPR

Urinary retention Inability to empty the bladder with accumulation of urine.

Also: acute urine retention · bladder balloon

Reticulocyte Young hematite; Its count measures the response of the bone marrow.

Reticulocytes Young red blood cells; Its count reflects bone marrow production.

Retinopathy Retinal disease, often due to diabetes or hypertension.

Diabetic retinopathy Progressive damage to retinal vessels due to diabetes.

Intrauterine growth retardation Fetal growth below that expected for gestational age.

Also: RCIU · CIR

Retrograde Which goes in the opposite direction to normal.

Systematic review Reproducible synthesis of all available evidence on a clinical question.

Relative risk Ratio between the incidence in exposed and non-exposed people.

Also: RR

Rigidity Resistance or difficulty in joint movement.

Neck stiffness Painful resistance to flexion of the neck; sign of meningeal irritation.

Also: stiff neck

Rigidity in gear wheel Intermittent resistance to passive mobilization; typical of parkinsonism.

Morning stiffness Joint difficulty and clumsiness when getting up; If it lasts >1 hour, it suggests inflammatory arthritis.

Rhinorrhea Abundant watery nasal discharge.

Also: runny nose · runny nose

Hive Edematous, evanescent and pruritic lesion; typical of hives.

Also: wheal · hive

Roncus Severe and continuous respiratory sounds due to secretions in large airways.

Rouleaux Stackling of red blood cells "in piles of coins"; typical of myeloma and inflammatory states.

Also: stacks of coins

Rubicundez Diffuse redness of the skin, especially facial.

Also: blush · red face

Blushing Redness due to vasodilation; one of the cardinal signs of inflammation.

Face blush Sudden and temporary redness of the face and neck.

Also: flushing · suffocation

Sarcoma Cancer that originates in tissues of mesenchymal origin (bone, muscle, fat).

Sarcopenia Progressive loss of muscle mass and function associated with aging.

Also: muscle loss

Oxygen saturation Percentage of hemoglobin bound to oxygen, measured by pulse oximetry.

Also: SatO2 · SpO2 · saturation

ARDS Acute respiratory distress syndrome: non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema with severe hypoxemia.

Also: respiratory distress · acute respiratory distress syndrome

Rapid intubation sequence Rapid induction and intubation technique to minimize aspiration.

Also: SRI · rapid sequence induction

Sedation Controlled decrease in level of consciousness and anxiety with drugs.

Sensitivity Ability of a test to correctly identify patients (true positives).

Sepsis Life-threatening organ dysfunction due to a deregulated host response to an infection.

Also: septic

Seroconversion Appearance in the blood of specific antibodies after an infection or vaccination.

Serology Detection of antibodies or antigens in serum to diagnose infections.

Seroma Accumulation of serous fluid under a surgical wound.

Bias Systematic error that diverts the results of a study from the truth.

Also: bias

Shock State of generalized tissue hypoperfusion with insufficient cellular oxygenation.

Also: shock

Cardiogenic shock Shock due to cardiac pump failure.

Distributive shock Shock due to vasodilation and inadequate flow distribution (septic, anaphylactic).

Hypovolemic shock Shock due to significant loss of blood volume or fluids.

Septic shock Sepsis with hypotension requiring vasopressors and hyperlactatemia despite fluid replacement.

SIADH Inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone; produces hyponatremia due to water retention.

Also: inappropriate ADH secretion

Wheezing Sharp whistling respiratory noise due to narrowing of the airways.

Also: wheezing · sibilant

Wheezing Whistling respiratory sounds due to narrowing of the airways (asthma, COPD).

Also: sibilant · wheezing · whistles · whistling when breathing

Sign Objective manifestation of disease detected by the examiner.

Battle Sign Retroauricular ecchymosis due to fracture of the base of the skull.

Blumberg sign Pain upon sudden decompression of the abdomen; indicates peritoneal irritation.

Also: bounce · painful decompression

Brudzinski's sign Involuntary flexion of the hips when flexing the neck; meningeal sign.

Chvostek sign Facial contraction when percussing the facial nerve; sign of hypocalcemia.

Courvoisier sign Palpable, painless gallbladder with jaundice; suggests malignant obstruction of the bile duct.

Cullen sign Periumbilical ecchymosis due to retroperitoneal hemorrhage (severe pancreatitis, ruptured ectopic).

Godet's sign Persistent pitting after pressing on an edema; indicates pitting edema.

Also: fovea · pitting edema

Gray Turner's sign Ecchymosis on the flanks due to retroperitoneal hemorrhage.

Homans sign Pain in the calf with dorsiflexion of the foot; unreliable for venous thrombosis.

Kernig's sign Pain and resistance to extending the knee with the hip flexed; meningeal sign.

Rope sign Palpation of a cord in the right iliac fossa due to intestinal thickening (Crohn's disease).

Silhouette sign Loss of the edge of a structure due to contact with an adjacent density; Locate the injury.

McBurney sign Pain on palpation of McBurney's point in the right iliac fossa; suggests appendicitis.

Also: McBurney point

Murphy's sign Interruption of inspiration due to pain when palpating the right hypochondrium; suggests cholecystitis.

Nikolsky sign Detachment of the epidermis when pressing the skin; indicates severe epidermal fragility.

Also: Nikolsky

Rovsing sign Pain in the right iliac fossa when palpating the left; suggests appendicitis.

Trousseau sign Carpal spasm when inflating the pressure cuff; sign of hypocalcemia.

Also: carpopedal spasm

Westermark sign Focal oligohemia on radiography due to vascular amputation in pulmonary thromboembolism.

Meniscus sign Superior concave edge of a free pleural effusion on chest x-ray.

Sign of the fold Persistence of the skin fold when pinching the skin; indicates dehydration.

Also: skin fold

psoas sign Pain when extending the hip; suggests irritation of the psoas due to retrocecal appendicitis.

Syncope Transient loss of consciousness due to global cerebral hypoperfusion, with spontaneous recovery.

Also: lipothymia · fainting · loss of consciousness

Exertional syncope Loss of consciousness during exercise; suggests cardiac cause (aortic stenosis, cardiomyopathy).

Syndrome Set of signs and symptoms that occur together and characterize an entity.

Anticholinergic syndrome Case due to cholinergic blockade: dry skin, mydriasis, tachycardia, urinary retention and delirium.

Cholinergic syndrome Case due to cholinergic excess: sialorrhea, lacrimation, diarrhea, miosis and bradycardia.

Compartment syndrome Increased pressure in a muscular compartment that compromises its perfusion; urgency.

Constitutional syndrome Combination of asthenia, anorexia and involuntary weight loss.

Also: asthenia-anorexia-weight loss

Acute coronary syndrome Spectrum of acute myocardial ischemia: unstable angina and infarction.

Also: SCA

Withdrawal syndrome Set of symptoms when suspending a substance on which one is dependent.

Also: abstinence

Cushing syndrome Manifestations due to sustained excess of glucocorticoids.

Also: Cushing · hypercortisolism

Tumor lysis syndrome Massive release of cellular contents when a tumor is destroyed (hyperkalemia, hyperuricemia).

Also: tumor lysis

Metabolic syndrome Group of abdominal obesity, HTN, dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia with cardiovascular risk.

Myelodysplastic syndrome Clonal bone marrow disorder with cytopenias and risk of acute leukemia.

Also: myelodysplasia

Nephritic syndrome Hematuria, HBP, edema and oliguria due to glomerular inflammation.

Nephrotic syndrome Massive proteinuria (>3.5 g/day), hypoalbuminemia, edema and hyperlipidemia.

Paraneoplastic syndrome Set of distant manifestations produced by a tumor without being metastasis.

Also: paraneoplastic

Synergy Combined effect of two drugs greater than the sum of their individual effects.

Also: synergic

Synovitis Inflammation of the synovial membrane of a joint.

Symptom Subjective manifestation of illness reported by the patient.

Sinusitis Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses.

Also: rhinosinusitis

Overdose Administration of a dose higher than that tolerated, with toxic effects.

Somatization Expression of psychological discomfort through physical symptoms without an organic cause that explains them.

Nasogastric tube Tube inserted through the nose into the stomach to nourish, drain or decompress.

Also: SNG

Bladder catheterization Introduction of a tube into the bladder to drain urine.

Also: urinary catheter · Foley catheter

Blow Abnormal heart sound due to turbulent flow through valves or defects.

Also: heart murmur

Austin Flint's breath Apical middiastolic murmur of severe aortic insufficiency.

Diastolic murmur Heart murmur during diastole; almost always pathological.

Systolic murmur Heart murmur during systole; It can be functional or pathological.

Subluxation Partial loss of joint contact.

Supine Lying face up.

Also: supine position

ST Elevation ST segment elevation on ECG; marks acute transmural injury (STEMI).

Also: ST elevation · SCACEST

Surfactant Substance that reduces alveolar surface tension; Its deficiency causes respiratory distress in premature babies.

Suture Material or technique to approximate the edges of a wound.

Also: points

Thalassemia Hereditary anemia due to defective synthesis of globin chains.

Cardiac tamponade Compression of the heart due to fluid accumulation in the pericardium that prevents its filling.

Also: pericardial tamponade

Tachycardia Heart rate >100 bpm.

Also: tachycardic · rapid pulse · heart racing

Ventricular tachycardia Tachyarrhythmia of ventricular origin with wide QRS; potentially fatal.

Also: TV

Tachyphylaxis Rapid decrease in response to a drug after successive doses.

Tachypnea Increased respiratory rate (>20 rpm in adults).

Granulation tissue Vascularized connective tissue that fills a wound during healing.

Also: granulation

Telangiectasia Visible and permanent dilation of small superficial vessels of the skin.

Also: spider veins · spider vein

Tremor Rhythmic and involuntary oscillatory movement of a part of the body.

Tendinitis Inflammation of a tendon.

Also: tendinopathy

Tenesmus Persistent feeling of need to defecate or urinate with incomplete evacuation.

Rectal tenesmus Painful sensation of incomplete evacuation of the rectum.

Bladder urgency Painful and persistent desire to urinate with incomplete emptying.

Teratogen Agent capable of producing malformations in the embryo or fetus.

Also: teratogenic

Third space Accumulation of fluid in non-functional compartments (interstice, cavities).

Tetany Muscle spasms and neuromuscular hyperexcitability, typical of hypocalcemia.

Also: spasms due to low calcium

Tetraplegia Paralysis of all four limbs.

Also: quadriplegia

Prothrombin time Test of the extrinsic coagulation pathway; It is expressed as INR.

Also: TP

Partial thromboplastin time Test of the intrinsic coagulation pathway.

Also: aPTT · aPTT

Tympanism Resonant and hollow sound on percussion due to excess air.

Also: tympanic

Ringworm Skin infection due to dermatophyte fungi (e.g. tinea corporis or tinea pedis).

Also: dermatophytosis · tinea

Printing Visible retraction of the intercostal or supraclavicular spaces due to respiratory difficulty.

Also: retractions · respiratory work

Thyroiditis Inflammation of the thyroid gland.

Thyroxine Main thyroid hormone (T4), it is converted into T3 in the tissues.

Titulation Gradual adjustment of the dose until the desired effect is achieved.

Also: title

TNM Tumor staging system: T (tumor), N (nodes) and M (metastasis).

Tocolysis Pharmacological treatment to stop contractions and stop premature birth.

Also: tocolytic

Tofo Nodular deposition of uric acid crystals in tissues; characteristic of chronic gout.

Also: gout nodule

Tolerance Need to increase the dose to obtain the same effect.

Pharmacological tolerance Necessity of increasing doses to achieve the same effect after repeated use.

Thoracentesis Puncture of the pleural cavity to extract fluid for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Also: thoracentesis

Thoracotomy Surgical opening of the thoracic cavity.

Tourniquet Device that compresses a limb to stop serious bleeding.

Torsade de pointes Polymorphic ventricular tachycardia associated with long QT, with axis rotation.

Also: toe twisting

Transaminases Liver enzymes (AST/ALT) whose elevation indicates hepatocyte damage.

Also: AST · ALT · GOT · GPT

Transferrin Iron transport protein in the blood.

Transfusion Administration of blood or blood products to a patient.

Also: blood transfusion

Bacterial translocation Passage of intestinal bacteria into the circulation through an altered mucosa.

Tracheostomy Opening of the trachea to the skin to ensure the airway.

Also: tracheostomy

Bipolar disorder Alternating episodes of mania/hypomania and depression.

Also: bipolar

Obsessive-compulsive disorder Obsessions (intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive acts) that generate discomfort.

Also: TOC

Transudation Protein-poor fluid due to pressure imbalance (without inflammation).

Tremor Tremor: rhythmic and involuntary oscillation of a part of the body.

Also: tremor

Triage Classification of patients according to severity to prioritize their care.

Also: triage · emergency classification

Lockjaw Difficulty or inability to open the mouth due to spasm of the chewing muscles.

Also: mouth closed · locked jaw

Trisomy Presence of three copies of a chromosome instead of two.

Thrombocytopenia Decrease in the number of platelets.

Also: plateletopenia · low platelets

Thrombocytosis Increase in the number of platelets.

Also: high platelets

Pulmonary thromboembolism Obstruction of the pulmonary artery by an embolus, almost always from a DVT.

Also: TEP · pulmonary embolism

Thromboembolism Obstruction of a vessel by a detached thrombus that travels through the circulation.

Also: thromboembolism

Thrombophilia Increased predisposition to thrombosis.

Thrombosis Formation of a clot (thrombus) inside a blood vessel.

Also: thrombotic · thrombus

Deep vein thrombosis Thrombus formation in the deep venous system, usually in the legs.

Also: TVP

Troponin Cardiac protein whose elevation in the blood indicates damage (necrosis) of the myocardium.

Ulcer Loss of substance from the skin or mucosa that affects beyond the epidermis.

Peptic ulcer Lesion that penetrates the mucosa of the stomach or duodenum, related to H. pylori and NSAIDs.

Also: gastric ulcer · duodenal ulcer

Pressure ulcer Injury to the skin and tissues due to pressure maintained on bony prominences.

Also: bed sore · decubitus ulcer

Uremia Clinical syndrome due to the accumulation of nitrogenous toxins in advanced renal failure.

Urine culture Urine culture to identify the germ causing a urinary tract infection.

Urticaria Eruption of itchy hives due to transient dermal edema.

Also: wheals

Uveitis Inflammation of the uvea (iris, ciliary body, choroid).

p value Probability of obtaining an equal or more extreme result if the null hypothesis were true.

Negative predictive value Probability of being healthy given a negative result.

Also: VPN

Positive predictive value Probability of being sick given a positive result.

Also: VPP

Valvular heart disease Heart valve disease (stenosis or insufficiency).

Varicose veins Permanent and tortuous dilation of a vein.

Also: varicose veins · varicose veins

esophageal varicose veins Venous dilations of the esophagus due to portal hypertension; risk of serious bleeding.

Varicocele Varicose dilation of the veins of the spermatic cord.

Vasculitis Inflammation of the wall of blood vessels.

Vasopressor Drug that increases blood pressure by vasoconstriction.

Also: vasopressors · vasoactive drug

Sedimentation speed Nonspecific marker of inflammation according to the drop in red blood cells in one hour.

Also: ESR

Bone window Adjustment of the CT to visualize the bone in detail.

Mechanical ventilation Artificial breathing support using a respirator.

Vertigo Illusory sensation of movement or rotation of the environment or one's own body.

Also: spin sensation · spinning dizziness

Positional vertigo Brief vertigo triggered by changes in head position (BPPV).

Also: BPPV

Gladbladder Raised skin lesion with liquid content <1 cm.

Also: small vial

Arterial route Catheter in an artery to monitor pressure and take blood gases.

Also: arterial line

Central route Venous catheter that ends in a large-caliber vein close to the heart.

Also: central venous catheter · CVC

Vocal vibrations Palpable voice transmission on the chest wall; They increase in condensation and decrease in spillage.

Also: fremito · VV

Average life Time required for the concentration of a drug to be reduced by half.

Also: half-life

Grounded glass Faint increase in lung density on CT that does not erase the vessels; inflammation or edema.

Also: frosted glass · ground glass

Viremia Presence of viruses in the blood.

Vitiligo Loss of melanocytes that produces depigmented (white) spots on the skin.

Volemia Total volume of circulating blood.

Average corpuscular volume Average red blood cell size; classifies anemia as micro, normo or macrocytic.

Also: MCV

Volvulus Torsion of an intestinal loop on its axis that produces obstruction and ischemia.

Vomic Sudden and abundant expulsion of pus or liquid through the mouth from a lung cavity.

Wheezing English term for wheezing: expiratory whistling respiratory sound.

Also: wheezing

Xanthelasma Yellowish cholesterol plaque on the eyelids.

Xanthoma Lipid deposition in the skin or tendons, associated with dyslipidemia.

Xerophthalmia Dry eyes due to tear or vitamin A deficiency.

Also: dry eye · dry eyes

Xerosis Abnormal dryness of the skin.

Also: dry skin

Xerostomia Dry mouth due to decreased saliva.

Also: dry mouth · dry mouth

Iatrogenesis Damage or illness caused by the medical act (drug, procedure or diagnosis).

Also: iatrogenesis · iatrogenic

Jejunum Middle portion of the small intestine, between the duodenum and the ileum.

Zoonosis Disease naturally transmissible between vertebrate animals and humans.

Zoster Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus that causes painful vesicular eruption in a dermatome.

Also: shingles

General terms

Other glossary specialties