EMA medical terms

simplifier
Plain-language description of medical
terms related to medicines use

polyuria
petechiae
tophi
trismus
idiopathic
immunoglobulins
acute
antagonist An agency of the European Union
8 February 2022
EMA/329258/2022 Rev. 1 1

EMA Medical Terms Simplifier

Plain-language description of medical terms related to medicines use

This compilation gives plain-language descriptions of medical terms commonly used in information about
medicines. Communication specialists at EMA use these descriptions for materials prepared for the
public.
In our documents, we often adjust the description wordings to fit the context so that the writing flows
smoothly without distorting the meaning. Since the main purpose of these descriptions is to serve our
own writing needs, some also include alternative or optional wording to use as needed; we use ‘<>’ for
this purpose.
Our list concentrates on side effects and similar terms in summaries of product characteristics and public
assessments of medicines but omits terms that are used only rarely. It does not include descriptions of
most disease states or those that relate to specialties such as regulation, statistics and complementary
medicine or, indeed, broader fields of medicine such as anatomy, microbiology, pathology and
physiology.
This resource is continually reviewed and updated internally, and we will publish updates periodically.
If you have comments or suggestions, you may contact us by filling in this form.

1
This revision includes terms used in cancer clinical trials, a change to seizure-related entries to avoid the use of fit,
as well as several new and revised terms.

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abdomen belly

ablation procedure to burn or remove parts of <tissue> <an organ>

ablation, radiofrequency destroying cancer cells with heat generated from radio waves

abrasions grazes

abscess a swollen area where pus has collected

absence seizure see seizure, absence

acetylcholine see neurotransmitter

acetylsalicylic acid also known as aspirin

acid regurgitation stomach acid flowing up into the mouth

acneiform resembling acne

excessive growth particularly of the bones of the hands, feet and face caused
acromegaly
by too much growth hormone <from the pituitary gland>

actinic keratoses <precancerous,> abnormal skin growths caused by too much sunlight

active immunity see immunity, active

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acute <short-lived> <sudden> <short-term>

<heart> conditions such as heart attack and unstable angina <(a type of
acute coronary syndrome
severe chest pain)> <caused by blocked blood supply to parts of the heart>

acute systemic
see hypersensitivity reaction, acute systemic
hypersensitivity reaction

adipocytes fat cells

adjunct add-on

adjuvant (vaccines) a substance <such as aluminium> that increases the effect of the vaccine

administer / administration do not use; use simple verbs such as ‘give’ or ‘take’

consider has <started to> spread; check definition for each cancer type
advanced (cancer)
carefully as this description may not always apply

aggregate stick together

agonist a substance that attaches to a receptor (target) and triggers an effect

very low level of a type of white blood cell <called granulocytes><, which are
agranulocytosis
important for fighting off infection>

akathisia a constant urge to move

alcohol intoxication do not use; explain in text e.g. excessive alcohol consumption

alkaloids substances that are naturally found in plants

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allergen a substance that causes an allergy

a test to measure a patient’s reaction to a defined dose of an allergen (the

allergen challenge
substance that they are allergic to)

allergic rhinitis see rhinitis, allergic

allotransplantation when a patient receives cells, tissues or organs from a donor

alopecia substitute with hair loss

alveolitis, allergic see pneumonitis, hypersensitivity

ambulatory avoid term where possible or use able to walk

amnesia substitute with memory loss

<low levels of red blood cells> <low levels of haemoglobin> <which can cause
anaemia
tiredness and pale skin>

when bone marrow stops producing new blood cells <causing tiredness,
anaemia, aplastic
lower ability to fight infection and uncontrolled bleeding>

anaemia, haemolytic excessive breakdown of red blood cells <causing tiredness and pale skin>

a medicine <which blocks sensation> used to prevent pain and discomfort

anaesthetic
<during surgery and medical procedures>

anaesthetic block see nerve block

a medicine that can be used to prevent pain by making the patient

anaesthetic, general
unconscious

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a medicine that blocks out sensation used to prevent pain in a part of the
anaesthetic, local
body <during surgery or other medical procedure>

anaesthetist a doctor specialised in anaesthesia

analgesic painkiller

analgesic, intraspinal painkilling medicine injected into the spine

anaphylactic reaction (shock) see anaphylaxis

sudden, severe allergic reaction <with breathing difficulty, swelling,

anaphylactoid reaction
lightheadedness, fast heartbeat, sweating and loss of consciousness>

sudden, severe allergic reaction <with breathing difficulty, swelling,

anaphylaxis
lightheadedness, fast heartbeat, sweating and loss of consciousness>

androgen male sex hormone like testosterone

aneurysm bulging and weakening of blood vessel <wall>

angina see angina pectoris

sudden pains to the chest, jaw and back, brought on by physical effort and
angina attacks
due to problems with the blood flow to the heart

pains to the chest, jaw and back, brought on by physical effort and due to
angina pectoris
problems with the blood flow to the heart

chest pain caused by interruptions in the heart’s blood supply, that can occur
angina, unstable
at rest <or without an obvious trigger>

rapid swelling under the skin <in areas such as the face, throat, arms and
angioedema
legs> <which can be life threatening if throat swelling blocks the airway>

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angiogenesis growth of new blood vessels

angiography X-rays of blood vessels

angioplasty a procedure to unblock a narrowed blood vessel <in the heart>

anorexia substitute with loss of appetite

anovulation when ovaries fail to produce eggs

a substance that blocks a receptor (target) and stops other substances

antagonist
attaching to it and triggering an effect

EXPLAINER

What does antibiotic resistance mean?

Antibiotics fight off bacteria. Typically, they interfere with processes that are important for the bacteria to
survive or multiply.
But bacteria can evolve to neutralise the effects of antibiotics. For example, they may develop enzymes that
break down the antibiotic or they may develop a mechanism to keep the antibiotic from entering the
bacteria. The antibiotic can therefore no longer fight off the bacteria and the bacteria are considered
antibiotic resistant.
The instructions for building the proteins (such as enzymes) that make bacteria antibiotic resistant are
contained in their genes. Worryingly, these genes can be passed on to other types of bacteria, sometimes to
bacteria of different species. This can cause antibiotic resistance to spread quickly even among unrelated
species of bacteria.

a protein in the blood that helps the body's defences by identifying and
attaching to specific foreign substances including germs
antibody
side effect a protein the body produces that attaches to the medicine <and
can affect how well treatment works>

anticoagulant a substance that prevents the blood from clotting

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antiemetic a substance that <prevents> <and> <treats> nausea and vomiting

a specific structure that the body can recognise as 'foreign' and against which
antigen
it can produce an antibody

a <medicine> <substance> that prevents symptoms of allergy

antihistamine
alternatively an allergy medicine

antihypertensive blood pressure lowering

a substance that can prevent damage from highly reactive molecules called
antioxidant
‘free radicals’

medicines that prevent platelets in the blood from clumping and blocking
antiplatelet medicines
arteries

antipyretic a medicine for treating fever

antiretroviral use HIV medicine

anuria a condition in which a patient cannot make or pass urine

aortic stenosis see stenosis, aortic

apathy lack of interest or energy

problems with use of language <including speech, understanding and

aphasia
reading> <because of brain damage>

a procedure where blood is passed through an external device that removes

apheresis
<X> before returning the blood to the body

interruption of breathing; see also sleep apnoea and obstructive sleep

apnoea
apnoea

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repeated interruption of breathing during sleep due to airways becoming

apnoea, obstructive sleep
blocked

apnoea, sleep frequent interruption of breathing during sleep

aqueous humour the watery fluid in the eye

arachnoid one of the membranes protecting the spine and the brain

arrhythmia abnormal or irregular heartbeat

artery disease, peripheral reduced blood flow in arteries of the legs and arms

arthralgia substitute with joint pain

arthritis pain and inflammation in the joints

arthropathy damage to the joints

ascites a build-up of fluid in the abdomen

aspergillosis an infection caused by a fungus called Aspergillus

asthenia substitute with weakness

asymptomatic showing no symptoms <effects>

ataxia inability to coordinate muscle movements

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atelectasis collapse of the whole or part of a lung

a disease in which fatty deposits build up in the walls of the arteries

atherosclerosis
alternatively fatty deposits in arteries <which can cause blockage>

atherothrombotic events problems caused by blood clots and hardening of the arteries

atonic seizure see seizure, atonic

atony lack of normal muscle <strength> <movement> <function>

atopic linked to an allergy

atopic dermatitis see eczema, atopic

atrial fibrillation see fibrillation, atrial

atrial flutter see flutter, atrial

atrioventricular (AV) block a type of heart rhythm disorder

atrophy wasting away of body tissue or organ

atrophy, muscular muscle wasting

attenuated weakened

atypical absence seizure see seizure, atypical absence

aura unusual visual or other sensory experiences

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healthy <tissue> <specific tissue: bone, skin, …> taken from one part of the
autograft
patient’s body and grafted in another

autoimmune disease a disease caused by the body’s own defence system attacking normal tissue

EXPLAINER

What does autoimmune disease mean?

An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune (defence) system treats healthy parts of the body as if they
were foreign and attacks them. Autoimmune disease can take many forms, depending on which body cells or
tissues are targeted by the immune system.
Well-known autoimmune diseases include:
• rheumatoid arthritis, a condition of joints and nearby tissues
• psoriasis, a skin condition
• ulcerative colitis, a bowel disease
• type 1 diabetes, in which insulin-producing cells are destroyed
• multiple sclerosis, in which the protective covering of nerves is destroyed
Some autoimmune diseases can run in families.
Treatment of autoimmune diseases generally involves relieving the symptoms (especially during flare-ups)
and calming down the immune system (‘immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapy’). Medicines
that tackle the underlying autoimmunity in rheumatoid arthritis are sometimes called disease-modifying
antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS) or, more generally, disease-modifying drugs.

Autologous <tissue> <cells> from the patient’s own body

avascular necrosis death of bone tissue due to interruption of blood supply

B cells cells in the immune system

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use B cells unless it is necessary to introduce the term lymphocyte, in which

B lymphocytes
case say B lymphocytes (B cells) the first time and then use B cells

bacteraemia bacteria present in the blood

bacteriostatic stops bacteria from multiplying

Bell’s palsy weakness in the face muscles

benign prostatic hyperplasia

enlarged prostate gland<that is not cancerous>
(BPH)

bile a fluid produced in the liver that helps to break down fats

biliary cirrhosis see cirrhosis, biliary

bilirubin a breakdown product of red blood cells

bilirubin (elevated) see hyperbilirubinaemia

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EXPLAINER

What does bioequivalence mean?

Bioequivalence testing tells us if medicines that contain the same active substance behave in the same
way in the body. Bioequivalence means that the active ingredient in different medicines is absorbed into
the body at the same speed and to the same extent.
Testing for bioequivalence typically involves giving volunteers a medicine and then measuring the amount
of the active ingredient in their blood regularly (say, every 2 hours) until very little of the ingredient
remains in the blood. If the pattern of rise and fall of the active ingredient in the blood is identical then
the medicines are bioequivalent.
Three measures are important for confirming bioequivalence:
• The maximum concentration of the active ingredients in the blood
• The time to reach the maximum concentration after taking the medicine
• The extent to which the active ingredients are absorbed.

two medicines are bioequivalent when they produce the same levels of the
active substance in the body.
bioequivalent if greater precision is needed, consider medicines with the same active
substance are bioequivalent if the active substances from both medicines are
absorbed in the body at the same rate and to the same extent.

biological medicine a medicine made by cells <grown in a laboratory>

biopsy examination of tissue removed from the body <to check for disease>

an exemption from having to show bioequivalence between the medicine

biowaiver
and its reference product

blepharitis inflammation of the eyelid(s)

blood pressure when the heart is between beats < (lower one of the two
blood pressure, diastolic
readings)>

blood pressure, systolic blood pressure when the heart beats < (higher one of the two readings)>

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blood urea nitrogen (BUN) a marker for liver and kidney problems

BMI body mass index <a measure of body weight in relation to height>

body surface area use calculated using the <patient / child>'s height and weight

bolus injection full dose injected in one go <over a few seconds>

bone (mineral) density a measure of how strong the bones are

bone marrow spongy tissue inside the large bones <where blood cells are produced>

see also haematopoietic (blood) stem cell transplantation.

bone marrow transplantation a procedure where the patient’s bone marrow is cleared of cells and
replaced with healthy bone marrow cells from a donor

bradycardia slow heart rate

breakthrough pain flare-up of pain despite ongoing treatment with painkillers

bronchi airways in the lungs

bronchiectasis when airways have become weakened and scarred

bronchitis inflammation of the airways in the lungs

bronchoconstriction narrowing of the airways <causing breathing difficulty and wheezing>

bronchodilator a medicine that widens the airways in the lungs

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excessive <and prolonged> contraction of the airway muscles causing

bronchospasm
breathing difficulty

bruxism <involuntary> teeth grinding

bulimia nervosa an eating disorder

bulla(e) large blister(s) with pus

bullous blistered

bullous eruption
blisters

TERMS USED IN CANCER CLINICAL TRIALS

complete response no sign of cancer after treatment

how long patients live without <a complication or sign of disease occurring or
event-free survival
coming back> <their disease coming back>

percentage of patients who have either no sign of cancer or <shrinkage of the

overall response rate
tumour><a decrease in the extent of the cancer> after treatment

overall survival how long patients live

partial response <shrinkage of the tumour><decrease in the extent of the cancer> after treatment

patient-reported report directly from the patient of how well they are doing
outcome

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progression (disease) getting worse

progression-free
how long patients live without their disease getting worse
survival

relapse-free survival how long patients live without their disease coming back

response rate do not use; write percentage of patients who improve <on treatment>

survival rate, overall percentage of patients who live for a specific period <after diagnosis or treatment>

survival, overall how long patients live

time to (disease)
do not use. Explain as: the time until the disease started worsening <again>
progression

time to treatment
do not use. Explain as: the time until the treatment stopped working
failure

cachexia muscle wasting with significant weight loss

a hormone <produced by the thyroid gland> that helps to control the amount of
calcitonin
calcium and phosphorus in the blood

candidiasis thrush, a fungal infection <caused by Candida>

cannula a thin tube inserted into <the body><a vein>

cannula, indwelling
a thin tube permanently inserted into a vein
intravenous

leakage of fluid from blood vessels causing tissue swelling and a drop in blood
capillary leak syndrome
pressure

capsid shell (of a virus)

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symptoms caused by <cancerous> tumours that release substances into the blood
carcinoid syndrome
<that act on different organs>

carcinoid tumour a tumour of the endocrine system that produces hormones

carcinoma a type of cancer

cardiac heart

cardiac arrest heart stops beating

cardiac arrhythmia see arrhythmia

cardiomyopathy damage to the heart muscle

cardiotoxicity harm to the heart

cardiovascular affecting the heart and blood circulation

cardiovascular system heart and blood vessels

cardioversion a process that restores the heart's normal rhythm

cartilage tough, flexible tissue in joints and other areas such as the nose and ears

surgical or chemical prevention of the effects of male hormones <released by the

castration
testes>

catalyse help

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sudden muscle weakness and collapse caused by a strong emotion or laughter <in
cataplexy
patients with narcolepsy>

cataract clouding of the lens

catheter a flexible tube inserted into the body

CD4 T-cells white blood cells that are important in helping to fight infections

cellulitis inflammation of the deep skin tissue

central nervous system brain and spinal cord

central venous
see central venous line
catheter

central venous line a tube through the skin into a large vein <used for giving medicines and fluids>

cerebral of <cerebrum, a part of> the brain

cerebral oedema see oedema, cerebral

cerebrospinal fluid fluid that surrounds the brain and the spinal cord

cerebrovascular
stroke
accident

cerebrovascular
disease of the blood vessels supplying the brain
disease

cervical cancer cancer of the cervix

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twisting and pulling of the neck and head caused by abnormal tightening of neck
cervical dystonia
muscles

cervix the neck of the womb

CHD see coronary heart disease

do not translate but explain in text, e.g. 'attaches to another chemical to form a
chelate
'chelate' that can be removed from the body in the stools'

cholestasis reduced flow of bile from the liver <because of a blockage>

cholestatic hepatitis see hepatitis, cholestatic

choroid the layer below the retina that contains blood vessels

chromatopsia changes in colour perception

chromosomal
when parts of genes are rearranged between two chromosomes
translocation

chromosome genetic material

chronic long term

chronic renal failure see renal failure, chronic

chronic stable angina

see angina pectoris
pectoris

circumoral do not use; substitute with around the mouth

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cirrhosis <scarring of the liver> <a type of liver disease>

cirrhosis, biliary liver damage caused by build-up of bile

coagulation clotting

coagulopathy problems with blood clotting

cognitive ability to think, learn and remember

colitis inflammation in the large bowel <causing pain and diarrhoea>

colloidal solid particles evenly spread in a liquid

colon lower part of the gut

colonoscopy a procedure to examine the large bowel though a tube with a camera

a cancer that starts in the large bowel and involves the rectum (the lowest part of
colorectal cancer
the gut)

community-acquired
infection has been caught outside of hospital
infection

compensated liver
see liver disease, compensated
disease

the ability of patients to stick to their treatment; avoid term, explain what is
compliance
meant

complicated flu see flu, complicated

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complicated infection see infection, complicated

congenital present at birth

congestive heart failure see heart failure, congestive

conjunctiva the membrane that lines the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelid

conjunctivitis redness and discomfort in the eye

connective tissue the tissue that binds and supports the skin and internal organs

constriction narrowing

contraception prevention of pregnancy

a compound that helps make internal body structures easier to see during imaging
contrast agent
and medical procedures

contusion bruising

convulsion an episode of spasm(s) and reduced consciousness

cornea the transparent layer in front of the eye that covers the pupil and iris

corneal opacity clouding of the cornea

coronary arteries blood vessels that supply the heart muscle

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coronary artery disease see coronary heart disease

heart disease caused by narrowing or blockage of blood vessels supplying the heart
coronary heart disease
muscle

corpora cavernosa the spongy tissue of the penis

corpuscular volume size of the red blood cells

C-reactive protein a marker of inflammation

creatine kinase an enzyme released into the blood when muscle is damaged

creatine
see creatine kinase
phosphokinase (CPK)

creatinine a breakdown product of muscle <removed by the kidneys>

creatinine (elevated) a sign of <worsening> kidney problems

creatinine clearance a measure of how well the kidneys are working

crepitation unusual crackling sound

Crohn’s disease an inflammatory disease affecting the gut

cryotherapy freezing

crystalluria <crystal> particles in the urine

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cutaneous small vessel

inflammation of blood vessels in the skin <which may result in a rash or bruising>
vasculitis

disorder with signs such as weight gain, fat build-up on the face and bruising
Cushing’s syndrome
caused by too much of <a type of steroid> <corticosteroid> hormone

cyanosis skin and lips turning blue <because of a lack of oxygen>

<inflammation> <infection> in the bladder <which can cause pain and discomfort
cystitis
when passing urine>

cytokine release <life-threatening> condition causing fever, vomiting, shortness of breath, headache
syndrome and low blood pressure

cytomegalovirus (CMV)
a viral infection of the retina, which can cause loss of vision
retinitis

cytopenia low number of cells in the blood <or tissue>

cytotoxic cell-killing or able to kill <dividing> cells <such as cancer cells>

dander shed skin and hair

decompensated heart
see heart failure, decompensated
failure

decompensated liver
see liver disease, decompensated
disease

deep vein thrombosis

blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg
(DVT)

delirium confusion

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deltoid muscle muscle covering the shoulder joint

delusion false beliefs

dementia loss of intellectual function

demyelinating a neurological disorder characterised by progressive weakness and loss of

polyneuropathy sensation in the legs and arms

breakdown of the covering around nerve fibres <which can affect brain activity,
demyelination
muscle control and sensations>

a type of injection where the medicine is prepared so that it is absorbed by the

depot injection
body very slowly

dermatitis inflammation of the skin

dermatitis, atopic see eczema, atopic

dermatology the treatment of skin conditions

desquamation shedding of the upper layers of the skin

diabetic foot infection consider infection that occurs in the feet of patients with diabetes

a serious complication of diabetes with high levels of ketones in the blood

diabetic ketoacidosis
add relevant symptoms if needed

diabetic peripheral
damage to the nerves in the extremities that can occur in patients with diabetes
neuropathy

a dangerous condition that can occur in diabetes; combine with ketoacidosis if

diabetic precoma
necessary

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technique for removing unwanted substances and excess fluid from the blood
dialysis
<when the kidneys do not work well enough>

type of dialysis <involving circulating fluid into the abdomen and then allowing the
dialysis, peritoneal
fluid to flow out>

diaphoresis excessive sweating

diaphragm the main breathing muscle under the lungs

diastolic blood
see blood pressure, diastolic
pressure

digital ulcers see ulcers, digital

dilate substitute with widen or expand

diplopia double vision

disease-modifying
treatment that changes the progress of a <long-term> disease
(drugs or therapy)

dissociation
feeling disconnected from emotions and physical surroundings
(psychiatry)

distension swelling

a medicine that increases urine production <and reduces build-up of water in the
diuretic
body> <and lowers blood pressure>

diverticulitis a disease affecting the gut

DNA genetic material

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neurotransmitter Parkinson's disease only: a messenger substance in the parts of

dopamine
the brain that control movement and coordination

dormant inactive

DRESS (drug rash with

eosinophilia and a severe reaction affecting the skin, blood and internal organs
systemic symptoms)

a condition where the blood vessel that allows blood to bypass the baby's lungs
ductus arteriosus,
before birth fails to close after birth. This causes heart and lung problems in the
patent
baby

duodenitis inflammation of the duodenum, the part of the gut leading out of the stomach

duodenum the part of the gut leading out of the stomach

dysaesthesia unpleasant and abnormal feeling when touched

dysarthria difficulty speaking

dysgeusia taste disturbance

dyskinesia difficulty controlling movement

dyslipidaemia abnormal levels of fat in the blood

dysmenorrhoea period pains

dyspepsia indigestion

dysphagia difficulty swallowing

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dysphonia changes in the sound or tone of the voice

dysplasia presence of abnormal cells <which may become cancerous>

dyspnoea difficulty breathing

dystonia involuntary muscle contractions

dysuria painful urination

echocardiography a diagnostic test where an image of the heart is obtained using ultrasound

ectopia lentis a disorder where the lens of the eye is in the wrong position

ectopic pregnancy pregnancy developing outside the womb

eczema itchy, red and dry skin

eczema, atopic itchy, red and dry skin in people prone to allergies

avoid; if absolutely necessary, use 'how well <medicine> works as measured in

efficacy
clinical studies'

ejection fraction how much blood is pumped out of the heart in one beat

electrocardiogram
a test of the heart’s <electrical> activity
(ECG)

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salts such as sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride and bicarbonate <in blood and
electrolytes
other fluids in the body>

a procedure to block a blood vessel <to stop bleeding or to block the flow of blood
embolisation
to a tumour or abnormal cells>

embolism obstruction of a blood vessel <by a clot>

embolism, air/gas air or gas bubbles in the blood that obstruct a blood vessel

emetogenic triggering nausea and vomiting

emotional lability mood swings

empirical treatment treatment started on current knowledge until better information is available

encephalitis inflammation of the brain

encephalopathy brain disorder caused by a harmful substance or infection

encephalopathy,
brain damage caused by liver problems
hepatic

encephalopathy,
brain damage caused by high levels of ammonia
hyperammonaemic

infection of the sac around the heart <which can lead to serious heart
endocarditis
complications>

related to <glands that produce> hormones in the body

endocrine in some circumstances, particularly where ‘endocrine’ is an adjective, using
‘hormonal’ might be enough

endometrium the lining of the womb

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endophthalmitis inflammation of the inside the eye <often caused by infections>

endoscope a flexible device used to look inside body cavities

endoscopy a procedure that uses a tube with a camera to look inside the body

engraftment consider when the cells start growing <and producing normal blood cells>

general a protein that helps specific chemical processes in the body; more specific
enzyme
a protein that <explain role of enzyme, e.g., converts X to Y>

enzyme replacement
therapy in which the patient is provided the enzyme that is lacking
therapy

eosinophil a type of white blood cell

eosinophilia an excess of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell

when a disease spreads to a large number of people in a community, region or

epidemic
country

epidemiological studies studies of the causes and distribution of diseases in the population

epidermis outer layer of the skin

epigastralgia pain around the upper part of the stomach

epigastric (region) upper and middle part of the belly

the growing ends of long bones <which become part of the main bone when
epiphyses
growth finishes>

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epistaxis substitute with nosebleed

erectile dysfunction inability to get or keep an erection; impotence

erosion ulcer

eructation belching

erythema reddening of the skin

erythropoietin hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells <by the bone marrow>

exacerbation flare-up

exercise capacity the ability to carry out physical activity

exfoliative flaky

extracorporeal
a technique to oxygenate the blood outside the body using a device similar to a
membrane
heart-lung machine
oxygenation (ECMO)

extrapyramidal side effects on a part of the brain that regulates movement <which may result in
effects/symptoms tremor, muscle spasms or movement disorders>

when a medicine that is normally injected into a vein leaks or is accidentally

extravasation
injected into the tissue surrounding the vein, where it can cause serious damage

faecal urgency urgent need to open the bowels

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familial runs in the family

familial adenomatous
formation of numerous growths mainly in the large intestine
polyposis

familial
high blood cholesterol levels that run in the family
hypercholesterolaemia

fatigue substitute with tiredness

febrile feverish

febrile neutropenia see neutropenia, febrile

fibrillation uncoordinated twitching of muscle <fibres>

irregular and uncoordinated contractions of the upper chambers of the heart

fibrillation, atrial <caused by problems in the flow of electrical impulses> <which may cause
<palpitations> <fast heartbeat>>

dangerous, irregular and uncoordinated contractions of the lower chambers of the

fibrillation, ventricular heart <caused by problems in the flow of electrical impulses> <which can stop the
heart working>

fibroids non-cancerous growths in the womb

fibrosis tissue scarring and thickening

fibrosis, pulmonary lung damage with tissue scarring and thickening

ferritin a protein that stores iron in the body

FEV1 (forced expiratory

the most air a person can breathe out in 1 second
volume in 1 second)

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fibrinolytic dissolves blood clots made out of a substance called fibrin

fissure tear or crack

fistula abnormal passageway <between the gut and other organs>

flare worsening of disease

flatulence gas

flu, complicated serious effects of flu generally requiring hospital care

flushing reddening of the skin

rapid contractions of the upper chambers of the heart <caused by problems in the
flutter, atrial flow of electrical impulses> <which causes strain on the heart because the upper
and lower chambers are beating at different speeds>

follicles small sacs <in the ovary> that hold the eggs

folliculitis inflammation of hair follicles

forced expiratory
the most air a person can breathe out <in one second>
volume

forced vital capacity a measure of how much air the lungs can hold

formication a sensation of something crawling on or under the skin

FVC see forced vital capacity

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gangrene decay and death of tissue

gastric retention when the stomach does not empty properly

gastritis inflammation of the stomach lining

gastroenteritis diarrhoea and vomiting

gastrointestinal stomach and gut

gastro-oesophageal
disease where stomach acid rises up into the oesophagus
reflux disease

gastro-resistant <tablets> <capsules> that can pass through the stomach intact

gastrostomy inserting a tube through the skin into the stomach; see also PEG

general anaesthetic see anaesthetic, general

generalised anxiety
long-term anxiety or nervousness about everyday matters
disorder

generalised seizure see seizure, generalised

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EXPLAINER

What are genes?

Our genes determine our makeup and we inherit them from our parents. A gene is a set of precise
instructions for making a specific protein in a cell. We have a bank of between 20,000 and 25,000 different
genes. Each gene forms a small section of the long strands of DNA (chromosomes), present in the nucleus of
the cell.
Cells make copies of the DNA when they divide. The copies can develop mistakes but these are usually
repaired and there is no effect on the genes. For many of the remaining mistakes, the consequences are
minor and go unnoticed. But, rarely, mistakes lead to an alteration (mutation) of a gene and affect the
production of an important protein and so cause disease. Cystic fibrosis, a disease affecting the lungs and the
digestive system, is an example of a disease caused by faulty genes.
Genetic diseases are challenging to treat. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms of the disease and,
where possible, replacing the missing or abnormal protein resulting from the faulty gene. For some diseases,
advanced medicines may be able to introduce genes into body cells and so correct the underlying genetic
abnormality, possibly permanently.

genotoxic substance a substance that is harmful to the DNA, the genetic material in cells

glaucoma damage to the nerve in the eye <usually caused by high pressure in the eye>

glaucoma, angle- damage to the nerve in the eye caused by pressure inside the eye rising rapidly
closure because fluid cannot drain out

glaucoma, narrow-
see glaucoma, angle-closure
angle

damage to the nerves in the eye caused by high pressure due to clogging of fluid
glaucoma, open-angle
drainage canals

a type of brain tumour that begins in ‘glial’ cells (the cells that surround and
glioma
support nerve cells)

glossodynia burning or tingling sensation in or around the mouth

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glucose sugar

gluteal region buttocks

glycosylated the proportion of haemoglobin in the blood that has glucose attached. HbA1c
haemoglobin (HbA1c) indicates how well blood glucose is controlled

high levels of uric acid in the blood causing symptoms especially painful
gout
inflammation in the joints

graft versus host when transplanted cells attack the body <because the transplanted tissue or organ
disease regards the patient’s tissue as ‘foreign’ and attacks the body>

granulation wound healing

granulation,
excessive production of tissue during wound healing
hypertrophic

granulocytes a type of white blood cell

Guillain-Barré an immune system disorder that causes nerve inflammation <and can result in
syndrome pain, numbness, muscle weakness and difficulty walking>

gynaecomastia abnormal breast enlargement

5-hydroxytryptamine also known as serotonin – see neurotransmitter

haemagglutination clumping of red blood cells

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haemagglutinins <virus> proteins that make red blood cells clump together

haematological <of> <related to> blood

haematoma a collection of blood under the skin

haematopoietic (blood) a procedure where the patient's bone marrow is <cleared of cells and> replaced
stem cell <by stem cells> <from a donor> <with the patient's own stem cells> to form new
transplantation bone marrow <that produces healthy cells>

haematopoietic
see stem cells
progenitor cells

EXPLAINER
What is haematopoietic stem cell transplantation?

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) involves a patient receiving stem cells to help the bone
marrow produce healthy blood cells. Stem cells are unspecialised cells that can develop to become different
types of specialised cells. HSCT is used to treat serious diseases of the blood and immune system. A stem cell
transplant in which the patient receives cells from a matched donor is called an allogeneic transplant. Before
receiving the transplant, treatment is given to clear cells from the patient’s own bone marrow. The patient
then receives the donor cells, which multiply and develop into healthy specialised blood and immune cells.

haematuria substitute with blood in the urine

procedure for removing waste products from the blood <used in patients with
haemodialysis
kidney disease> <using a blood filtration machine>

haemoglobin the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body

haemolytic anaemia see anaemia, haemolytic

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haemophilia A an inherited bleeding disorder caused by lack of factor VIII

haemophilia B an inherited bleeding disorder caused by lack of factor IX

haemoptysis coughing blood

haemorrhage substitute with bleeding

haemorrhagic stroke see stroke, haemorrhagic

haemostasis stopping bleeding

hallucination seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there

hand foot syndrome rash and numbness on the palms and soles

inflammation of the nasal passages caused by an allergy to pollen; do not define

hay fever
unless absolutely necessary

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EXPLAINER
What does HbA1c say about diabetes control?
HbA1c is a substance in the blood, with the full name glycosylated (or glycated) haemoglobin. As blood sugar
rises, the amount of glycosylated haemoglobin increases. HbA1c is measured in people with diabetes and
tells us about a person’s average blood glucose (sugar) control over the previous 2 to 3 months.
HbA1c is measured as a proportion of haemoglobin in the blood, either as a percentage or in ‘mmol/mol’.
Generally, in people who don’t have diabetes the HbA1c is below 6% (42 mmol/mol) and in people with
diabetes it is over 6.5% (48 mmol/mol).
Taking diabetes medicines regularly lowers HbA1c levels. HbA1c is often used to measure the effectiveness of
diabetes medicines. Because HbA1c tells us about long-term control of blood glucose it may be a better
measure than the level of blood glucose itself, which fluctuates and can change within a few minutes of
eating or taking a diabetes medicine. The aim of diabetes treatment is to achieve reliable long-term control of
blood glucose and prevent complications of the disease.

when the heart does not pump blood as well as it should <with shortness of breath,
heart failure
tiredness and ankle swelling>

heart failure, when the heart does not pump blood as well as it should <with build-up of fluid
congestive around the heart> <causing shortness of breath, tiredness and ankle swelling>

heart failure,
when the heart is working less and less well
decompensated

hepatic liver

hepatic
see encephalopathy, hepatic
encephalopathy

hepatitis inflammation of the liver

hepatitis, cholestatic build-up of bile leading to inflammation of the liver

hepatomegaly enlarged liver

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HER2 a protein involved in the growth of certain types of breast cancer

herpes simplex viral infection of the mouth (such as cold sores) or the genitals

herpes zoster see shingles

hirsutism excessive hair <in parts where there is usually very little or no hair>

histamine a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms

HMG-CoA reductase an enzyme in the liver that is needed to make cholesterol

Hodgkin’s lymphoma see lymphoma

a substance <released by a gland> that circulates in the blood and helps body
hormone
organs to work in specific ways

hormone treatment treatment that blocks or increases the effects of specific hormones

hyperaemia increased blood flow

hyperaemia, ocular red eye

hyperammonaemia high blood levels of ammonia

hyperammonaemic
see encephalopathy, hyperammonaemic
encephalopathy

high blood levels of bilirubin<, a breakdown product of red blood cells, which can
hyperbilirubinaemia
cause yellowing of the skin and eyes> <, indicating liver problems>

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hypercalcaemia high blood calcium levels

hypercalciuria high calcium levels in the urine

hyperchloraemic
excess acid in the blood caused by too much chloride
acidosis

hypercholesteraemia high blood cholesterol levels

hypercholesterolaemia,
high blood cholesterol levels that have no identifiable cause
primary

hyperglycaemia high blood glucose levels

hyperglycaemic coma coma caused by too much blood glucose

hyperhidrosis excessive sweating

high blood potassium levels <which can cause tiredness, muscle weakness, feeling
hyperkalaemia
sick and heart rhythm disturbances>

hyperlactataemia high blood lactic acid levels

hyperlipidaemia high blood levels fat in the blood

high blood sodium levels <which can cause thirst, tiredness, confusion and
hypernatraemia
seizures>

when the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone, which raises
hyperparathyroidism calcium levels in the blood <and can lead to bone and muscle pain, dehydration,
and fragile bones>

hyperphosphataemia high blood phosphate levels

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hyperplasia enlargement of an organ or body tissue <caused by increased cell division>

hypersensitive allergic

hypersensitivity allergic reactions

hypersensitivity
allergic reaction with widespread effects such as shortness of breath, skin rashes
reaction, acute
and low blood pressure
systemic

hypertension high blood pressure

hypertension, ocular raised pressure in the eye

hypertensive crisis sudden, dangerously high blood pressure

hyperthermia high body temperature

an overactive thyroid gland <which can cause hyperactivity, sweating, weight loss
hyperthyroidism
and thirst>

hypertonia muscle tension

hypertriglyceridaemia high blood levels of triglycerides, a type of fat

hypertrophic
see granulation, hypertrophic
granulation

hypertrophy excessive growth or increase in the number or size of cells

hyperuricaemia high blood levels of uric acid

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hypervolaemic when the amount of water in the body is higher than normal

hypoacusis hearing loss

hypoaesthesia reduced sensation to touch, pain and temperature

hypoalbuminaemia low levels of albumin, a blood protein

hypocalcaemia low blood calcium levels

hypoglycaemia low blood glucose levels

low blood potassium levels <which can cause weakness, muscle cramps, tingling
hypokalaemia
and heart rhythm disturbance>

hypomagnesaemia low blood magnesium levels

hypomania feeling excited and overactive

hyponatraemia low blood sodium levels <which can cause headache, tiredness, seizures and coma>

hypophosphataemia low blood levels of phosphates

hypoplasia incomplete development of an organ or tissue

hypoproteinaemia low blood protein levels

hypotension low blood pressure

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hypotension,
see hypotension, postural
orthostatic

feeling dizzy or lightheaded on standing or sitting up because of a drop in blood

hypotension, postural
pressure

hypothalamus a region of the brain

an underactive thyroid gland <with tiredness, weight gain, and skin and hair
hypothyroidism
changes>

hypotonia reduced muscle strength or tone

hypoxia lack of oxygen in body tissues

icterus see jaundice

idiopathic the cause of the disease is unknown

idiopathic
a disease in which people do not have enough platelets and are at high risk of
thrombocytopenic
bleeding
purpura (ITP)

ileum (ileal) last part of the small intestine

ileus loss of movement in bowel muscles

immediate-release only needs definition when comparing with other types of tablet a tablet that
tablet releases the active substance immediately

immune reactivation
see immune reconstitution syndrome
syndrome

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immune reconstitution when the recovering immune system starts fighting off hidden infection, causing
syndrome inflammation and damage to healthy tissue <such as the liver and thyroid gland>

immune reconstitution
inflammatory see immune reconstitution syndrome
syndrome (IRIS)

immune system the body's natural defences

immunity protection

immunocompetent
person with an immune system that works normally
person

immunocompromised
person with a weakened immune system
person

immunodeficiency
when body defences are reduced from birth
disorder, primary

general the ability to make the immune system respond to the <viruses/bacteria
etc.>;
immunogenicity

for studies the ability of X to trigger the production of antibodies

antibodies; see antibody

immunoglobulins

as active substance blood proteins that have been extracted from donor plasma

immunological
triggering of the body’s defences against <an organism or a foreign substance>
response

immunomodulator a substance that changes the activity of the body’s defences

immunosuppressant
a medicine that reduces the activity of the immune system
medicine

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immunosuppressive reduces the activity of the immune system

immunotherapy medicines that stimulate the immune system <to kill the cancer cells>

impetigo a skin infection causing crusting scabs

inactivated (vaccine) see vaccine, inactivated

incidence the number of people who get the <disease/condition/illness> every <year>

incontinence lack of control over passing <urine><stools>

accidental leaks of urine caused by sudden pressure on the bladder <brought on,
incontinence, stress
for example, by coughing, laughing, lifting and exercising>

incontinence, urge see urinary urgency

indolent slow-growing (cancer)

induration hardening <at the injection site>

indwelling intravenous
see cannula, indwelling intravenous
cannula

infection that is difficult to treat because it has spread within the body or the
infection, complicated
patient has other conditions

infection, upper
nose and throat infection
respiratory tract

infection, urinary tract infection of the parts of the body that collect and pass out urine

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influenza flu

infusion drip

difficulty sleeping; consider difficulty falling and staying asleep, and poor quality of
insomnia
sleep

insomnia with no identified cause <including medical, mental or environmental

insomnia, primary
causes>

interstitial lung disease see lung disease, interstitial

intra-abdominal
use infections within the abdomen (belly)
infections

intracranial within the skull <in or around the brain>

intradermal <within><into> the skin

intramuscular into a muscle

intraocular into the eye

intraspinal analgesia see analgesic, intraspinal

intrathecal into the spinal canal <into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord>

intravenous<ly> into a vein

intravitreal inserted into the vitreous humour, the jelly-like fluid in the eye

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intubation insertion of a breathing tube through the nose or the mouth

when part of the bowel becomes enfolded within another part of the bowel,
intussusception
leading to a blockage

invasive disease disease <that has spread> <capable of spreading> to other parts of the body

avoid if possible; consider a medical procedure that may involve piercing or cutting
invasive procedure
into the body or inserting instruments

ions charged particles

iron overload an excess of iron in the body

ischaemia reduced blood supply

ischaemic heart
see coronary heart disease
disease

ischaemic stroke see stroke, ischaemic

jaundice yellowing of the skin and eyes

Kaposi’s sarcoma a type of cancer affecting the skin

keratitis inflammation of the cornea

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keratoconjunctivitis
dry eyes
sicca

keratopathy damage to the cornea, the transparent layer of the eye

a dangerous condition with high blood levels of ketones <that can make blood
ketoacidosis
more acidic>

lacerations cuts

lacrimation watery eyes

lactate dehydrogenase a marker for tissue damage

lactic acidosis a build-up of lactic acid in the body

larynx voice box

laxatives medicines that treat constipation

lean body mass body weight excluding fat

lesion consider injury or abnormality

lethargy lack of energy

leucocytes white blood cells

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leucocytosis high levels of white blood cells

leucopenia low levels of white blood cells

leukaemia cancer of the white blood cells

limb arm or leg

lipids fats

lipoatrophy loss of fat below the skin <that can change body shape>

lipodystrophy
changes in the distribution of body fat
(syndrome)

liver disease,
when the liver is damaged but is still able to work <adequately>
compensated

liver disease,
when the liver is damaged and can no longer work adequately
decompensated

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EXPLAINER

What does a liver function test involve?

Liver function testing involves a blood test to show how well the liver is working. It is not the same as a
biopsy, where a small part of liver tissue is removed via a minor surgical procedure and examined.
Several substances in the blood are measured to indicate the liver’s health. They include enzymes produced
by liver cells, bilirubin (a breakdown product of red blood cells) and albumin (a protein that circulates in the
blood). Liver function tests are helpful for guiding more investigations or for changing treatment.
The liver usually recovers quickly from damaging effects and often the tests may be abnormal for only a
short time. Also, sometimes the test may be abnormal as a result of disorders elsewhere in the body.
A rise in the levels of the following liver enzymes indicates that the liver is under stress and may lead to liver
problems:
• alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
• aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
• alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
• gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT)
Increase in the levels of ALT and AST depends on the degree of inflammation whereas increase in ALP and
GGT can suggest a blockage of the bile duct (the tube that carries bilirubin from the gall bladder to the
intestine).
A build-up of bilirubin in the liver increases the level of this yellow-coloured substance in the blood and can
cause jaundice (yellowish appearance of the skin and the whites of the eyes).
The liver makes albumin, an important protein that helps to control blood pressure and to transport various
substances round the body. Albumin level in the blood can drop if the liver is damaged.
Tests to check how long it takes blood to clot can also show up problems with the liver. This is because the
liver makes many of the proteins that help the blood to clot. If the liver can't make enough of these
proteins, the blood may not clot fast enough.

liver impairment problems with the liver

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local anaesthetic see anaesthetic, local

long QT syndrome see QT<c> prolongation

low density lipoprotein

‘bad’ cholesterol
(LDL)-cholesterol

lower respiratory tract

infection of the lungs such as bronchitis or pneumonia
infection

inserting a needle into the lower spine <to test for or treat conditions affecting the
lumbar puncture
spinal cord and brain>

lumbar vertebra one of the bones in the lower part of the spine

lung disease,
disorders causing scarring in the lungs
interstitial

luteinising hormone
the hormone that triggers the release of eggs during the menstrual cycle
(LH)

lymphadenopathy enlarged lymph nodes, or 'swollen glands'

consider a network of vessels that transport fluid from tissues through the lymph
lymphatic system
nodes and into the bloodstream

lymphocele collection of lymph fluid usually in the lower belly

lymphocytes a type of white blood cell

lymphoma cancer of lymphocytes, white blood cells involved in the body’s defences

lymphopenia low levels of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell

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lyophilisate medicine <or food> that has been dried <by freeze drying>

lysis cell death

macrocytosis enlargement of red blood cells

macula the central part of the retina at the back of the eye

macular oedema see oedema, macular

macrophage a type of white blood cell

magnetic resonance
technique for detailed scanning of internal organs <using magnetic fields>
imaging (MRI)

consider <continuing> <ongoing><subsequent>

maintenance (dose,
treatment) if only the first dose is different, then no need to describe the rest of the doses as
continuing, ongoing, etc

malabsorption poor absorption of nutrients from the digestive system

malaise substitute with feeling generally unwell

malignant cancerous

mania mental disorder with extreme excitement and overactivity

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manic episodes periods of extremely high mood

melanoma a type of skin cancer affecting cells called melanocytes

meningitis inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord

breakdown products in the body or the substances that <a food> <a medicine> <a
metabolites
chemical> is broken down into

metastasis cancer that has spread from another part of the body

metastatic has spread to other parts of the body

methaemoglobinaemia too much of an abnormal haemoglobin that cannot carry oxygen effectively

minimal residual
when very few cancer cells remain in the body after treatment
disease

mitochondria the energy-producing components within cells

for layered tablets containing two active substances the two active substances are
released at different rates from the tablet <over a few hours>

modified-release

for other modified release preparations, do not give a general definition of

modified release but give a description restricted to the medicine

an antibody (a type of protein) designed to recognise and attach to <named

monoclonal antibody antigen> <a specific target>

see Explainer ‘What are monoclonal antibodies?’

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EXPLAINER

What are monoclonal antibodies?

Antibodies are proteins made by the body’s immune (defence) system. Typically, an antibody attaches to a
target on an invading organism like a bacterium or virus (the ‘antigen’). Antibodies can also attach to some
harmful substances or poisons. This is the first step in the body’s immune response (natural defence) against
the invading organism or harmful substance. Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory, but they act
in the same way as natural antibodies. ‘Monoclonal antibody’ means that the antibody is produced from exact
copies (clones) of a particular cell and therefore the antibodies, too, are all exactly the same. In this way it is
possible to control precisely what the antibodies will target.
Monoclonal antibodies can be used as medicines. For example, monoclonal antibodies can be designed to
attach to specific targets on cancer cells. Once attached to cancer cells, the monoclonal antibodies can make
use of the body’s immune system to destroy the cancer cells. Some monoclonal antibody medicines target
particular proteins or other toxic substances in the body and stop them working, to reduce the harmful effects
of these substances.

monotherapy used on its own

mortality do not use, but say death rate

mucopurulent containing mucus and pus

mucosa see mucous membranes

mucositis inflammation of the moist body surfaces

inflammation of the lining in the mouth <ranging from soreness and redness to
mucositis, oral
severe ulceration>

mucous membranes moist body surfaces, such as the lining of the mouth

if an explanation is considered necessary, consider a thick bodily fluid for

mucus
lubrication and protection

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multiple myeloma a cancer of the bone marrow

a disease of the brain and spinal cord in which inflammation destroys the
multiple sclerosis (MS)
protective covering around nerves and damages the nerves

multiple sclerosis,
gradual start of multiple sclerosis with steady worsening of the disease
primary progressive

multiple sclerosis, when the disease causes multiple sclerosis attacks (relapses) followed by periods
relapsing-remitting with milder symptoms (remission)

multiple sclerosis, when relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis steadily worsens without any
secondary progressive improvement

medicines used to relax muscles <including muscles that help the patient to
muscle relaxants
breathe>

muscular atrophy see atrophy, muscular

musculoskeletal relating to the muscles and bones

mutated changed

myalgia substitute with muscle pain

myasthenia gravis a disease, causing muscle weakness

myelin protective covering of nerves

myeloablative therapy treatments that destroy the bone marrow

myelodysplastic
when the bone marrow does not make enough healthy blood cells or platelets
syndromes

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myeloid <of> <in> bone marrow

myeloproliferative <a slow-growing cancer with> production of too many blood cells of a particular
diseases type <that can cause blockages>

myelosuppression a condition in which the bone marrow cannot make enough blood cells

myocardial infarction heart attack <because of blockage in blood supply to a part of the heart>

myocarditis inflammation of heart muscle

myoclonic seizure see seizure, myoclonic

myopathy muscle disease causing weakness

myopia nearsightedness or short-sightedness

myositis ossificans abnormal bone growth in the muscle

naevus/nevus <mole> <visible area of skin damage>

naïve patients do not use, but say patients who have not been treated before

nanobody a small antibody

narcolepsy a sleep disorder that causes a person to fall asleep suddenly and unexpectedly

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narrow-angle glaucoma see glaucoma, angle-closure

nasal congestion a blocked nose

nasal polyps growths in the lining of the nose

nasogastric tube a tube through the nose to the stomach

nasopharyngitis inflammation of the nose and throat

nausea feeling sick

device to produce a mist <of the medicine> for the patient to breathe in <through a
nebuliser
mask or mouthpiece>

necrosis death of cells or tissue

neoadjuvant treatment preliminary treatment to shrink the <cancer> <tumour>

newborn baby
neonate
preferably substitute newborn baby for neonate

neonatologist doctor specialising in treating newborn babies

neoplasm cancerous or non-cancerous growths

nephritis kidney inflammation

nephrolithiasis kidney stones

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nerve block procedure to block sensation to a part of the body

neuralgia substitute with nerve pain

neuralgia, post-
long-lasting nerve burning pain that may occur after shingles
herpetic

neuroleptic malignant a dangerous reaction with fever, rigid muscles, changing blood pressure and coma,
syndrome usually caused by antipsychotic medicines

neurological relating to the brain or nerves

neuropathic pain see pain, neuropathic

neuropathic ulcers see ulcer, neuropathic

neuropathy nerve damage

neuropathy, peripheral nerve damage in arms and legs <causing pain or numbness, burning and tingling>

neuropathy, peripheral
nerve damage causing difficulty with movement
motor

neuropathy, sensory nerve damage affecting sensation of pain, temperature and touch

neuropsychiatric
disorders of the brain and nerves resulting in altered thinking or behaviour
disorders

neurosurgery surgery on the nervous system, including the brain

a substance that nerve cells use to communicate with neighbouring cells;

neurotransmitter
also consider a substance that relays signals from a nerve cell to another cell

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EXPLAINER

What are neurotransmitters?

Cells, typically nerve cells, communicate by releasing chemicals which attach to a neighbouring cell. These
chemicals are called neurotransmitters. There are many different neurotransmitters – some well-known ones
include acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin (also called 5-hydroxytryptamine). If enough of
these neurotransmitters reach the neighbouring cell, they provoke an effect on the cell, most often by
increasing or decreasing the cell’s activity, for example muscle contraction.

neutropenia low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell <that fights infection>

neutropenia, febrile low levels of white blood cells with fever <due to infection>

neutropenic with low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell

neutropenic fever see neutropenia, febrile

neutrophil a type of white blood cell <that fights infection>

nocturia need to pass urine at night

nonclinical studies use laboratory studies

non-Hodgkin's
see lymphoma
lymphoma

nosocomial <infection> <disease> picked up in hospital

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obesity being very overweight

studies looking at the effects of medicines as they are used by patients in a real-life
observational studies
setting

obstructive sleep
see apnoea, obstructive sleep
apnoea (syndrome)

ocular of eye

ocular hyperaemia see hyperaemia, ocular

ocular hypertension see hypertension, ocular

oedema swelling; consider fluid retention

oedema, cerebral swelling in the brain

oedema, macular swelling in the macula, the central part of the retina at the back of the eye

oedema, periorbital puffy eyes

oedema, peripheral swelling especially of the ankles and feet <due to fluid retention>

relating to the <gullet> <foodpipe> <tube that leads from the mouth to the
oesophageal
stomach>

oesophageal stenosis see stenosis

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oesophagitis inflammation of the <foodpipe> <tube that leads from the mouth to the stomach>

oesophagus the tube that leads from the mouth to the stomach

oestrogen a female sex hormone

oestrogen-receptor where the cancer cells do not have receptors for the hormone oestrogen on their
negative tumour surface

oestrogen-receptor
where the cancer cells have receptors for the hormone oestrogen on their surface
positive

oligo-ovulatory rarely produces eggs

oliguria low urine output

oncologist cancer specialist

opacity substitute with clouding

open-angle glaucoma see glaucoma, open-angle

ophthalmologist eye specialist

opioid a <painkiller><medicine> that is related to morphine

opportunistic
infections seen in patients with a weakened immune system
infections

optic nerve the nerve that sends signals from the eye to the brain

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oral mucositis see mucositis, oral

orodispersible that dissolves in the mouth

oropharynx
mouth and throat
(oropharyngeal)

orphan medicine a medicine used in rare diseases

orthopaedic relating to the bones

orthostatic on standing or sitting up

orthostatic
see hypotension, postural
hypotension

ossification bone formation

osteoarthritis swelling and pain in the joints

osteoblasts bone-forming cells

osteoclasts cells that are involved in breaking down the bone tissue

osteomalacia a condition in which bones become soft and deformed

osteomyelitis bone infection

osteonecrosis death of bone tissue

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osteopenia reduction in bone strength

osteoporosis a disease that makes bones fragile

otitis media infection of the middle ear

ovalbumin a protein in egg white

ovarian cysts sacs of fluid within the ovaries

ovarian
when the ovaries over-respond to treatment <causing nausea, weight gain and
hyperstimulation
diarrhoea>
syndrome

ovarian stimulation fertility treatment where the ovaries are stimulated to release more eggs

ovulation the release of eggs <during the menstrual cycle>

oxygen saturation a measure of oxygen levels in the blood

paediatrician doctor specialised in the treatment of children

Paget's disease a disease involving bone destruction and regrowth, which causes deformity

pain, neuropathic pain due to nerve damage

palliative relieving symptoms

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palliative care treatment of the symptoms of a disease that is not intended to lead to cure

palmar-plantar
erythrodysaesthesia see hand foot syndrome
syndrome

palpitations a forceful heartbeat that may be rapid or irregular

palsy paralysis with weakness and shaking

pancreatitis inflammation of the pancreas <causing severe pain in the belly and back>

<low levels of blood cells> or <low levels of all types of blood cells <including
pancytopenia
platelets>>

pandemic when a disease spreads to a large number of people in many countries worldwide

papillomaviruses viruses that cause warts and abnormal tissue growth

paraesthesia sensations like numbness, tingling, pins and needles

parathyroid glands glands that secrete the hormone that controls blood calcium levels

a progressive brain disease that causes shaking and muscle stiffness and slows
Parkinson’s disease
movement

effects similar to Parkinson’s disease such as shaking, muscle stiffness and slow
parkinsonism
movement

paronychia nail bed infection

partial<-onset> seizure see seizure, partial<-onset> <with <or without> secondary generalisation>
<with <or without>

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secondary
generalisation>

patent ductus
see ductus arteriosus, patent
arteriosus

patient-year the equivalent of one patient taking the medicine for one year

peak expiratory flow the maximum speed a person can breathe out

pedal arteries avoid; say 'arteries that supply blood to the feet'

PEG (percutaneous
endoscopic a feeding tube inserted through the skin into the stomach; see also gastrostomy
gastrostomy)

pegylated attached to a chemical called polyethylene glycol

tiny fatty spheres that are <coated with> <attached to> a chemical called
pegylated liposomes
polyethylene glycol

pelvic lower abdominal

pelvic inflammatory
a type of infection of the upper part of the female genital tract
disease

peptic ulcer disease ulcers in the stomach or the duodenum

peptide a short chain of amino acids

percutaneous coronary
a procedure that unblocks blood vessels of the heart to restore its blood supply
intervention

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percutaneous
endoscopic see PEG
gastrostomy

percutaneous
transluminal coronary surgical procedure that is used to unblock narrowed coronary arteries
angiography (PTCA)

perennial occurs throughout the year

performance status a rating of how well a patient is (adapt as necessary)

perfusion blood circulation <through an organ>

pericardial disease disease of the membrane around the heart

pericarditis inflammation of the membrane around the heart

periocular infections infections around the eyes

periorbital oedema see oedema, periorbital

peripheral neuropathy see neuropathy, peripheral

peripheral arterial
see artery disease, peripheral
disease

peripheral motor
see neuropathy, peripheral motor
neuropathy

peripheral oedema see oedema, peripheral

peritoneal cavity The area of the belly that contains the intestines

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peritoneal dialysis see dialysis, peritoneal

peritoneum the membrane that forms the lining of the abdominal (belly) cavity

pertussis whooping cough

petechiae tiny blood spots under the skin

phaeochromocytoma a tumour of the adrenal gland

phagocytes specialised ‘scavenger’ cells of the immune system

pharmacodynamics a medicine’s effects in the body

pharmacokinetics how a medicine is absorbed, modified and removed from the body

pharyngitis sore throat

Philadelphia this means that some of the patient's genes have rearranged themselves to form a
chromosome positive special chromosome called the Philadelphia chromosome. This chromosome
(Ph+) produces an enzyme that leads to the development of leukaemia

phlebitis inflammation of a vein

phlebotomy removal of some of the blood from the body

phosphenes (luminous
a temporary brightness in the field of vision
phenomena)

photodynamic therapy treatment in which a medicine is ‘switched on’ by <a special type of> light

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photophobia abnormal sensitivity of the eyes to light

photopsia flashes of light in the field of vision

a medicine ‘switched on’ by <a special type of> light <and used for photodynamic
photosensitising agent
therapy>

photosensitivity
sunburn-like reactions (following exposure to light)
reactions

pigmentation colouring of the skin, hair and eyes

a gland <at the base of the brain> that controls many other hormone-producing
pituitary gland
glands in the body

placebo dummy treatment

plaque psoriasis see psoriasis

the liquid part of the blood or the part of the blood left when the blood cells are
plasma
removed

a procedure to remove <unwanted> <substances> <antibodies> from plasma (the

plasma exchange liquid part of the blood) <by replacing the patient’s plasma with plasma from a
donor>

plasmapheresis see plasma exchange

an enzyme that breaks up clots <and helps restore the normal blood flow to the
plasmin
heart>

platelet aggregation platelets clumping together <which can lead to a blood clot>

platelets components that help the blood to clot

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pleural effusion fluid around the lungs

pleuritic pain a type of chest pain

pneumonia infection of the lungs

pneumonitis inflammation in the lungs <causing shortness of breath and cough>

pneumonitis, inflammation in the lungs due to an allergy <causing shortness of breath and
hypersensitivity cough>

poliomyelitis use polio

pollakiuria abnormally frequent urination

polyuria increase in urine production

porphyria an inability to break down chemicals called porphyrins

portal vein vein leading to the liver

posterior reversible
brain swelling with <usually temporary effects such as> headache, changes in
encephalopathy
vision, reduced consciousness and seizures
syndrome

post-herpetic neuralgia
see neuralgia, post-herpetic
(PHN)

postmenopausal
women who have been through the menopause
women

postpartum after childbirth

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postural hypotension see hypotension, postural

precancerous lesions abnormal cells that could develop into cancer

preclinical studies use laboratory studies

preprandially substitute with before meals

PRES see posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome

preterm substitute with premature

prevalence the number of people with the disease

primary
see hypercholesterolaemia, primary
hypercholesterolaemia

primary
immunodeficiency see immunodeficiency disorder, primary
syndrome

primary insomnia see insomnia, primary

proctalgia anal pain

prodrug a medicine that is converted to an active form in the body

progression (disease) getting worse

progressive multifocal
a rare but serious <viral> brain infection <with symptoms similar to those of a
leukoencephalopathy
multiple sclerosis attack>
(PML)

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the active substance is released slowly <from the tablet> over a few <weeks/
prolonged release
days/hours> <after being injected>

prophylaxis prevention

prostate gland that produces fluid which nourishes and carries sperm

proteasome a system within cells that breaks down proteins when they are no longer needed

proteinuria excess protein in the urine

pruritus substitute with itching

psoriasis <a> <an inflammatory> disease causing red, scaly patches on the skin

psoriatic arthritis a disease causing inflammation in the joints in combination with psoriasis

psychomotor
restlessness
hyperactivity

psychosis altered sense of reality

pulmonary (arterial) high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs; consider (for brevity and if
hypertension appropriate) high blood pressure in the lungs

pulmonary artery the blood vessel that leads from the heart to the lungs

pulmonary embolism clot in a blood vessel in the lungs <which can cause chest pain, breathlessness and
(PE) fainting>

pulmonary fibrosis see fibrosis, pulmonary

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pulmonary nodule a small <area of damage> <lump> in the lungs

punctate keratitis spots of inflammation in the cornea

pure red cell aplasia a condition in which no red blood cells are produced

purpura purple patches like bruising

pustulation blisters

pyelonephritis kidney infection

pyrexia substitute with fever

QT interval A measure of the heart’s electrical activity

QT<c> prolongation abnormal electrical activity of the heart that affects its rhythm

radiofrequency
see ablation, radiofrequency
ablation

radiolabelling where a radioactive tag is attached to a substance

radiotherapy treatment with radiation

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Raynaud's disease
(phenomenon, severe narrowing of blood vessels in the cold <with skin turning white or blue>
syndrome)

receptor when used in mechanism of action consider saying receptor (target)

EXPLAINER

What are receptors, agonists and antagonists?

A receptor is a part of a cell that attaches to a specific substance and this attachment triggers a particular
change (‘response’), such as the release of messenger substances or making a protein. The substance that
attaches to the receptor to bring about the change is called an agonist. The shape of agonists makes them
just the right fit for their receptors – a ‘lock and key’ mechanism because each key will fit just one lock.
Agonists are mostly substances made in the body and include neurotransmitters (released by nerves),
hormones (released by special glands), and cytokines (released by cells such as those involved in
inflammation). But agonists can also be substances introduced into the body and many medicines work by
acting as agonists which attach to specific receptors to trigger a response.
Some substances can attach to the receptor without triggering a response. By sitting in the receptor, they
block the agonist from attaching to the receptor and having an effect. These substances are called
antagonists or blockers. Many medicines have been developed to be antagonists at particular receptors and
they prevent harmful overactivity at those receptors.

rectum the lowest part of the gut <that stores faeces>

recurrence when <symptoms/the disease> come(s) back <after treatment>

recurrent <has come back/keeps coming back> <after previous treatment>

refractory when treatment does not work

registry (patient or ongoing collection of information about <a specific group of> patients affected by a
disease) particular condition

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relapse when <symptoms/the disease> come(s) back <after treatment>

relapsing-remitting
see multiple sclerosis, relapsing-remitting
multiple sclerosis

remission a period without disease symptoms after treatment

renal do not use; write kidney

renal failure inability of the kidneys to work properly

renal failure, chronic long-term, progressive decrease in the kidneys’ ability to work properly

renal impairment reduced kidney function

resistant (treatment) when treatment does not work

respiratory depression when breathing is too slow and shallow

inability of the lungs <to work properly><to take in oxygen and get rid of carbon
respiratory failure
dioxide properly>

respiratory
difficulty breathing
insufficiency

respiratory system lungs and airways

respiratory tract
blocked airways
congestion

respiratory tract
Infection of the airways
infection

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response improvement related to treatment

a disorder where the patient has uncontrollable urges to move the legs to stop
restless legs syndrome
uncomfortable, painful or odd sensations, usually at night

reticulocytopenia low levels of reticulocytes, a type of immature red blood cell

retina the light sensitive membrane at the back of the eye

retinopathy damage to the retina

revascularisation restoration of blood flow

an enzyme produced by <virus> that allows it to infect cells in the body and make
reverse transcriptase
more viruses

rhabdomyolysis breakdown of muscles often leading to kidney damage

a disease with painful swelling and damage of joints <caused by the immune
rheumatoid arthritis
system mistakenly attacking healthy cells>

rhinitis stuffy and runny nose

stuffy and runny nose <with inflammation> caused by an allergy <e.g. hay fever or
rhinitis, allergic
dust-mite allergy>

rhinorrhoea substitute with runny nose

ribosomes the parts of the cell that produce proteins

rigors shaking chills

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RNA genetic material <instructions for producing proteins>

rotavirus a virus that causes gastroenteritis

rubella German measles

saccadic (eye
rapid eye movements
movements)

scleroderma hardening of the skin and connective tissue around internal organs

sclerosis, systemic see scleroderma

seasonal allergic
inflammation of the eyes caused by pollen in patients with hay fever
conjunctivitis

seasonal allergic
hay fever
rhinitis

secondary progressive
see multiple sclerosis, secondary progressive
multiple sclerosis

sedation <calming effect> <induce sleepiness>

seizure use seizure; do not use fit

a type of seizure during which a person has a blank stare but is partly aware of
seizure, absence
surroundings

seizure, atonic a type of seizure with very brief loss of muscle control and reduced consciousness

seizure, atypical a type of seizure during which a person has a blank stare <possibly losing
absence awareness of surroundings>

seizure, generalised seizure affecting most or all of the brain

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seizure, myoclonic short, shock-like jerks of a muscle or group of muscles

seizure, partial<-onset>
<with <or without> epileptic seizure starting in one specific part of the brain <secondary generalisation
secondary is when the seizure then spreads to the whole brain>
generalisation>

seizure, tonic brief seizure with muscle contraction

seizure, tonic-atonic a type of seizure that often involves the patient falling to the floor

seizure, tonic-clonic major seizure, including loss of consciousness

sensitivity (of disease) when a condition is treatable by a <medicine> <group of medicines>

sensitivity (test) a measure of how well a test can detect those who have a <disease> <condition>

sensory neuropathy see neuropathy, sensory

<when bacteria and their toxins circulate in the blood leading to organ
sepsis
damage><blood poisoning>

septic shock a dangerous drop in blood pressure caused by severe infection

septicaemia blood poisoning

development of antibodies <(proteins in the body’s defence system)> against a

seroconversion
specific target

allergic reaction to injected proteins <and blood products> <with fever, rash, joint
serum sickness
pain, digestive system problems and headache>

shingles a painful, blistering rash in one part of the body

shock a steep fall in blood pressure

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the 'pacemaker' for the heart that controls the heart contractions and regulates
sinus node
heart rate

sinus rhythm normal heartbeat

sinuses air-filled passageways in the bones around the nose and eyes

sinusitis inflammation of the sinuses

sleep apnoea see apnoea, sleep

sleep latency the length of time taken to fall asleep

slit lamp an instrument used by eye specialists to look into the eye

soft tissues tissues just below the skin

somnolence sleepiness

spasticity continuously stiffened muscles

a measure of how well a test can distinguish people with a condition from those
specificity (test)
who don’t have it

splenomegaly enlarged spleen

sputum phlegm

ST segment elevation an abnormal reading on the electrocardiogram (ECG)

stable angina pectoris see angina pectoris

standard of care treatment that medical experts consider most appropriate

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statin the standard type of medicine used to reduce cholesterol

status epilepticus an epileptic seizure, or series of seizures, lasting longer than 5 minutes

stem cell transplant see haematopoietic (blood) stem cell transplantation

stem cells
(haematopoietic stem cells that can develop into different types of (blood) cells
cells)

stenosis narrowing of a <body passage> <blood vessel>

stenosis, aortic narrowing of the aorta

stent a short tube placed in an artery to prevent it closing up

preferably use corticosteroid except where glucocorticoid needs to be

steroid
distinguished from mineralocorticoid, in which case use glucocorticoid

Stevens-Johnson life-threatening reaction with flu-like symptoms and painful rash affecting the skin,
syndrome mouth, eyes and genitals

stomatitis inflammation of the lining of the mouth

do not translate, but explain by using in context, e.g. 'the strain of flu virus
strain
responsible for a pandemic'

stress incontinence see incontinence, stress

sudden interruption of blood flow in the brain which can cause paralysis and
stroke
unconsciousness

stroke <(sudden interruption of blood flow in the brain)> caused by bleeding in a

stroke, haemorrhagic
part of the brain

stroke <(sudden interruption of blood flow in the brain)> caused by blocked blood
stroke, ischaemic
supply to a part of the brain

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subcutaneous injection substitute with injection under the skin

subcutaneous(ly) avoid; use under the skin

sublingual tablet a tablet which is placed under the tongue where it dissolves

sulphonylureas no definition required, just say other medicines to treat diabetes

treatment to prevent or relieve the symptoms of the disease <but not specific
supportive care
treatment against the disease>

a substance lining the airsacs which allows gases to pass easily between the lung
surfactant (lung)
and blood

a liquid with solid particles in it

suspension no need to describe when part of pharmaceutical form, e.g. suspension for
injection

sutured stitched

syncope fainting

systemic (side effects) side effects that can affect anywhere in the body

systemic treatment treatment with <a> medicine<s> given <by mouth> <or> <by injection>

systemic lupus a condition in which the body’s defence system attacks normal tissue causing
erythematosus symptoms such as swollen joints, tiredness and rashes

systolic blood pressure see blood pressure, systolic

T cells cells in the immune system

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use T cells unless it is necessary to introduce the term lymphocyte, in which case
T lymphocytes
say T lymphocytes (T cells) the first time and then use T cells

tachycardia substitute with rapid heartbeat

tachypnoea rapid breathing

tapering (dose) reducing the dose gradually

tardive dyskinesia uncontrolled movements of the face and jaw

tenosynovitis inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon

teratogen a substance that can cause birth defects in the unborn baby

teratogenicity ability to cause birth defects

thrombin a protein involved in blood clotting

thrombocytopenia low levels of blood platelets <which can lead to bleeding and bruising>

thrombocytopenic formation of blood clots in small blood vessels, lowering the level of platelets and
purpura causing purple spots on the skin

thromboembolism problems due to the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels

thrombolytic dissolves blood clots

thrombophlebitis inflammation in a vein leading to a blood clot <and blockage>

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thrombosis formation of blood clots in the blood vessels

thrombotic events problems due to the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels

a gland <in the chest> that prepares <cells> <lymphocytes> to help the body’s
thymus gland
defences

tibia shin bone

time to (disease)
do not use; explain as the time until the disease started worsening <again>
progression

time to treatment
do not use; explain as the time until the treatment stopped working
failure

tinnitus ringing or buzzing in the ears

tonic-atonic seizure see seizure, tonic-atonic

tonic-clonic seizure see seizure, tonic-clonic

tonic seizure see seizure, tonic

tonsillitis infection of the tonsils

tophi deposits of uric acid crystals in joints, skin or cartilage <which can cause damage>

topically on the skin

torsades de pointes abnormal electrical activity in the heart with life-threatening rhythm disturbance

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torticollis see cervical dystonia

toxic epidermal life-threatening reaction with flu-like effects and blistering in the skin, mouth eyes
necrolysis and genitals

toxin a harmful substance produced by infectious organisms

toxoid an inactivated toxin

trachea windpipe

transdermal patch patch to give <a medicine> <medicines> through the skin

transplant rejection when the immune system attacks the transplanted organ

trauma <severe> injury

treatment-experienced use <had been> treated for <disease> before

treatment-naïve use <had> never <been> treated for <disease>

tremor shaking

triglycerides a type of fat

trismus contraction of the jaw muscles which holds the mouth shut

a serious <side effect> <complication> with rapid break down of cancer cells
tumour lysis syndrome
<causing high levels of uric acid, potassium and phosphate>

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ulcer open sore

ulcer, neuropathic open sore caused by a nerve problem

ulcers, digital sores on the fingers and toes

ulcerative colitis inflammation of the large intestine causing ulceration and bleeding

unresectable cannot be removed by surgery

unstable bladder an overactive bladder, when the bladder muscles contract suddenly

upper respiratory tract

see infection, upper respiratory tract
infection

urethra the tube that leads from the bladder to the outside <of the body>

urge incontinence see urinary urgency

urgency sudden urge to pass urine

uricaemia high blood levels of uric acid

urinary retention inability to completely empty the bladder

urinary tract structures that carry urine <such as the bladder>

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urinary tract infection see infection, urinary tract

urinary urgency sudden urge to pass urine <with urine leakage>

uterus womb

urticaria itchy rash

uveitis inflammation of the uvea, the layer beneath the white of the eyeball

vaccine, inactivated a vaccine that uses an organism that has been killed

vaccine, live
a vaccine that uses a weakened form of the organism
attenuated

a vaccine that contains a molecule called mRNA which has instructions for making a
vaccine, mRNA foreign protein, triggering an immune response inside the body and protecting
from infection

a vaccine that uses a modified version of a <different> virus to deliver instructions

for making a foreign protein to cells in the body, triggering an immune response
vaccine, viral vector
inside the body and protecting from infection. <The modified virus cannot
reproduce or cause disease>

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EXPLAINER

How do vaccines work?

Many illnesses are caused by harmful organisms such as bacteria and viruses. Vaccines prepare the
immune system (the body's natural defences) to fight off these organisms as soon as they enter the body,
preventing the illness from getting established.
Vaccines introduce the body to antigens, foreign substances that identify the harmful organism. As a
result, the body's immune system produces antibodies that attach to the antigen and certain blood cells
(memory B cells) develop the ability to recognise the antigen as a target for attack. In future, if an
organism that contains the antigen enters the body, the immune system already has a memory of it and
can quickly attack it.
Antigens in vaccines come in many forms such as:
• modified viruses or bacteria – the harmful organisms themselves that have been killed (inactivated) or
weakened (attenuated) so they cannot cause disease
• substances that form part of the walls or outer layer of a disease-causing organism – these can be
made in the laboratory, so the harmful organism is never present
• a toxoid – a version of a harmful substance (toxin) that some bacteria produce that has been modified
so that it doesn’t cause harm
It is also possible to use the body’s own cells to produce an antigen. In such cases the vaccine contains the
genetic instructions for making the protein. These instructions (a section of genetic code in the form of
RNA or DNA) are enclosed in a harmless virus or a fatty particle that can enter body cells and deliver the

varicella chickenpox

varices swollen <and knotted> veins

vascular <affecting> <of> blood vessels

vasculitis inflammation of blood vessels

vasoconstrictor a substance that narrows blood vessels

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vasodilation widening of the blood vessels

when blood vessels become blocked by abnormal red blood cells, restricting the
vaso-occlusive crises
flow of blood to an organ

vasopressors medicines that increase blood pressure

ventilator a machine that helps a patient to breathe

vertebral avoid; use (of the) spine

vertigo a spinning sensation

one of the two lower chambers of the heart <that pumps blood into the
ventricle (heart)
circulation>

ventricular fibrillation see fibrillation, ventricular

vesicle spot

viral load the amount of virus found in the blood

viral vector a virus that has been altered so that it can carry genetic material into cells

visual acuity sharpness of vision

vitreous floaters small, dark shapes moving in the field of vision

volume depletion reduced amounts of fluids in the body

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