Glossary Index by Letter
Endocrine Glands
Those parts of the body which produce and secrete (release) hormones. Examples include pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, testicles, ovaries, parathyroid glands, etc.
Endocrinologist
A doctor who specializes in diseases of the endocrine glands and their hormones. A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating hormone disorders and diseases that affect the edocrine glands. Endocrinologists are trained to diagnose and provide treatment for...
Endocrinology
The study of the endocrine glands and their hormones. A science dealing with the ductless glands that secrete substances (hormones) which are released directly into the circulation and which influence metabolism and other body functions.
Endovaginal
Within the vagina (the genital canal in the female, extending from the uterus to the vulva). Endovaginal (within the vagina) ultrasound; or transvaginal (across or through the vagina) or pelvic ultrasound; a diagnostic method using a probe vaginally to inspect a...
Enema
The injection of liquid into the intestine by way of the anus. The injection of a liquid through the anus into the large bowel. A Barium enema is a procedure in which a liquid with barium in it is put into the rectum and colon by way of the anus. Barium is a...
Epidemology
The study of the distribution of disease and its impact upon a population, using such measures as incidence, prevalence, or mortality. Epidemiology is the study of factors determining and influencing the frequency and distribution of disease, injury, and other health...
Etiology
The study of the cause of a disease. The cause or causes of a disease or abnormal condition; also the research or studying of the causes and origin of diseases.
FFM
Fat-free mass. The part of the body not containing fat.
Fibroid
Resembling or composed of fibers or fibrous tissue. Benign smooth-muscle tumor(s), usually in the uterus or gastrointestinal tract. Also called leiomyoma. Fibroids are benign tumors of fibrous or fully developed connective tissue. Fibroid tumors may not need to be...
FIPA: Familial Isolated Pituitary Adenoma
Rarely pituitary adenomas can occur in families. If no other abnormality is associated then this condition is called Familial Isolated Pituitary Adenoma. Rarely pituitary adenomas can occur in families. If no other abnormality is associated then this condition is...
Fluoroscopy
Examination of the tissues and deep structures of the body by x-ray, using the fluoroscope. An x-ray procedure that makes it possible to see internal organs in motion; or the production of an image when x-rays strike a fluorescent screen. Interventional fluoroscopy...
Focal
Limited to one specific area. A focal neurologic deficit is a problem in nerve function that affects; a specific location or small area; or a specific function, such as speech.
Frontal Lobes
The region of the brain in the front of the head which lies above and in front of the pituitary gland. The part of each hemisphere of the brain located behind the forehead that serves to regulate and mediate the higher intellectual functions. The frontal lobes are...
FSH
Follicle Stimulating Hormone A gonadotrophin secreted by the pituitary gland, the hormone promotes fertility in men and helps to regulate the menstrual cycle in women.
Gadolinium
An element used in contrast media for magnetic resonance imaging. A metal element that is used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other imaging methods. It is a contrast agent, which helps show abnormal tissue in the body during imaging with a special machine....
Gantry
A frame housing the x-ray tube, collimators, and detectors in a CT machine, with a large opening into which the patient is inserted. Part of a CT scanning machine – During a CT scan, the patient will be asked to lie on a narrow table (gantry) that slides into the...
Gastrointestinal (GI)
Relating to the stomach and intestines. The gastrointestinal system consists of the gastrointestinal tract, a tube extending from the mouth to the anus; its purpose is to break down food, prepare it for absorption and eliminate waste.
Generic
Nonproprietary, or not protected by trademark registration. A drug not protected by a trademark. Also, the scientific name as opposed to the proprietary, brand name.
Genesis
The beginning of a process. The beginning or origin; into being of something; the process or mode of origin.
Genetic Engineering
A variety of techniques that molecular biologists use to manipulate DNA molecules to study the expression of a gene. A laboratory technique sometimes used to identify a defective gene in an unborn child which may cause a particular disease.
