Pituitary Glossary starting with M

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is a scanning device that uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer.

Signals emitted by normal and diseased tissue during the scan are assembled into an image

Malignant

In reference to an abnormal tissue growth neoplasm (cancer), having the property of locally invasive and destructive growth and metastasis (spreading).

Semantics prevail. For example, invasive pituitary tumors are not thought to be malignant.

Mammography

Imaging examination of the breast by means of x-rays

Used for screening and diagnosis of breast disease. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance may also be used to image the breast.

Mass Effect

Damage to the brain due to the bulk of a tumor, the blockage of fluid, or excess accumulation of fluid within the skull.

Damage to the brain due to the bulk of a tumor, the blockage of fluid, or excess accumulation of fluid within the skull.

Medial

The word medial comes from the Latin medialis, from medius, meaning the middle. Medial is the adjective corresponding to the noun median, as in the median in a highway.

Pertaining to the middle; in or toward the middle; nearer the middle of the body. Medial is as opposed to lateral. For example, the medial side of the knee is the side closest to the other knee whereas the lateral side of the knee is the outside of the knee.

Within a multilayered structure, the center layer. The medial layer of the aorta is the middle layer. For example, necrosis of the medial layer of the aorta may lead to aortic rupture.

Median Survival

Median means the middle value.

An equal number of people live longer as die earlier than the median.

Medroxyprogesterone Actetate

A semi-synthetic medication which is close in structure and function to the naturally occurring female sex hormone, progesterone.

A synthetic steroid progestational hormone that is used especially in the treatment of amenorrhea and abnormal uterine bleeding, in conjunction with conjugated estrogens to prevent osteoporosis and relieve the symptoms of menopause. An injectable contraceptive also known as medroxyprogesterone.

Membrane

Thin layer of tissue covering a surface, lining a body cavity, or dividing a space or organ.

Pericarditis is a condition in which the membrane, or sac, around your heart is inflamed.

Meninges, Plural of Meninx

Any membrane; specifically, one of the membranous coverings of the brain and spinal cord.

The brain and spinal cord are covered by 3 connective tissue layers collectively called the meninges that consist of the pia mater, the arachnoid and the dura mater. The meninges also support blood vessels and contain cerebrospinal fluid. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges; if severe, may become encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.

Metastases

The spread of a disease process from one part of the body to another.

The appearance of abnormal tissue growths (malignant or nonmalignant) in parts of the body remote from the site of the primary tumor.

Microscopy

Using an operating microscope to better visualize a small operating field or perform delicate surgery.

The examination of minute objects by means of a microscope, an instrument which provides an enlarged image of an object not visible with the naked eye.

Milliroentgens

One-thousandth of a roentgen.

The international unit of exposure for x-rays or gamma rays.

Modality

A form of application or employment of a therapeutic agent or regimen.

A method of treatment. For example, surgery and chemotherapy are treatment modalities.

Available Now!

The Pituitary Patient Resource Guide Sixth Edition is now available! Be one of the first to have the most up-to-date information. The Pituitary Patient Resource Guide a one of a kind publication intended as an invaluable source of information not only for patients but also their families, physicians, and all health care providers. It contains information on symptoms, proper testing, how to get a diagnosis, and the treatment options that are available. It also includes Pituitary Network Association’s patient resource listings for expert medical care.

Buy Now

PNA Gratefully Acknowledges our Supporters

Continuing Education Program

If you are a nurse or medical professional, register for PNA CEU Membership and  earn CEU credits to learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for patients with pituitary disorders. Help PNA reduce the time it takes for patients to get an accurate diagnosis.

Register Now!

For more information click here!

Coming Events

Xeris Recorlev

Pituitary Patient Tool Kit

Check out our new educational tools!

Downloadable Pituitary Brochures

Our print quality brochures are now available for download.