Glossary of Medical Terms – E

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

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N

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X

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EA

Enternal Alimentation, Enteroasnastomosis

Ear Coning

A centuries-old way to relieve earache, to fight infection, and remove toxins and wax from inside the ear.
[Note From Author: I highly recommend this. It’s very relaxing and it DOES work]

E Antibody

Carriers who stop producing

E-Antibody Positive- (eAb+)

Carriers who stop producing E-antigen sometimes produce E-antibodies. The clinical significance of this is uncertain

E-Antigen

sometimes produce e-antibodies. The clinical signficance of this result is uncertain

E Antigen

A viral protein that is secreted by Hepatitis B Virus infected cells. The presence of the E Antigen indicates high levels of virus in the blood which increases a carrier’s infectiousness to others with whom they come into close contact with. If this test is negative, yet a person is known to be HBsAg positive, then it indicates low levels of virus in the blood, which decreases one’s infectiousness

E Antigen Positive (eAg+)

S-antigen is part of the HBV particle. S-antigen positive suggests the person is either an HBV carrier or is experiencing an acute HBV infection

Early Satiety

Feeling full before completing a normal sized meal. Definition of ‘normal’ varies with each individual

EAS

Enternal Anal Sphincter

EB

Esophageal Body

EBC

Esophageal Balloon Catheter

EBV

Epstein-Barr Virus

EC

Escherichia Coli, Esophageal Carcinoma

Ecchymosis

Bruising

ECF

Extracellular Fluid

ECG

Electrocardiogram

Echinacea

Echinacea Purpurea–Commonly known as the purple coneflower, is used by American Indians as the remedy of choice for infections and animal bites. Research has uncovered active constituents that have a profound effect on proper immune function- particularly its polysaccharides and echinacosides. Used extensively by herbalists and alternative health care providers to boost the immune system, help speed wound healing, reduce inflammations, treat colds and flu, and fight infections. Echinacea helps to activate macrophages, key immune system elements that are directly involved in the destruction of bacteria, viruses, other infectious agents and cancer cells. Reports indicate that Echinacea enhances natural killer cell activity, another important component in the immune system. Echinacea is recommended for use periodically for one or two weeks at a time, do not use continuously, because the body becomes accustomed to it, and it loses effectiveness. This effectiveness is restored in a week or two. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before using this product. If you have kidney disease, restrict usage to ten days (maximum) to avoid a possible imbalance in excreted minerals

Echinococcosis, Hepatic

Helminth infection of the liver caused by Echinococcus granulosus or Echinococcus multilocularis

Echography

Scan

Eck Fistula

An artificial anastomosis between the portal vein and inferior vena cava by which blood from the intestinal region is diverted from the liver to flow directly to the heart

Ecological Epidemiology

A branch of epidemiology which views disease as a result of the ecological interactions between populations of hosts and parasites

-ectasis

(suffix)-To stretch; dilate

-ectomy

Suffix meaning excision of structure or organ

Ectopic

In the wrong place. In an abnormal position. Occurring at an abnormal time

Edema

Accumulation of an abnormally large amount of fluid in body tissues, causing swelling of the involved area. Edema from liver disease is most often seen in the lower legs, feet, and around the eyes. It can be caused by portal hypertension and is associated with cirrhosis. Also called Dropsy

EEA

Elemental Enteral Alimentation, End to End Anastomosis

EEG

Electroencephalogram

EFA

Essential Fatty Acids

EFC

Endogenous Fecal Calcium

Efficacy

Index of the potency of a drug or disease treatment

Effusion

Escape of fluid, Bodily fluid pathologically accumulated

EG

Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis, Esophagogastrectomy

EGD

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

EGG

Electrofastrogram, Electrogastrography

EH

Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma

EHBDA

Extrahepatic Bile Duct Atresia

EHC

Enterohepatic Circulation

EHEC

Enterohemorrhagic, Escherichia Coli

EHO

Extrahepatic Obstruction

EIA

Enzyme Immunoassay

EIEC

Enteroinvasive , Escherichia Coli

Elastin

Protein that is similar to collagen and is the chief constituent of elastic fibers

Elderberry

Sambucus Racemosa. The elder is a common shrub bearing nutrient dense black berries and small white flowers. Traditional use of this plant includes both the berry and the flower. Elderberry juice has a long tradition as a refreshing drink that enhances resistance and health. The berries are particularly rich in the important class of antioxidant compounds called polyphenols

Elective

Not urgent

Electrocardiogram

A recording of the electrical activity of the heart

Electrolyte(s)

Mineral salts that are involved in nerve signal transmission and muscle contractions. generally refers to the dissolved form of a mineral such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, chlorine, etc.

Elder

Used for any catarrhal inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as hayfever and sinusitis. Elder flowers are ideal for the treatment of colds and influenza. The leaves are used for bruises, sprains, and wounds. Elder leaves may be useful compounded in ointments for tumors. Elder berries are useful in treating chronic rheumatism. For colds and fevers, Elder may be used with Peppermint, Yarrow or Hyssop. For influenza, combine with Bonset. For catarrhal states, mix it with Golden Rod

Elecampane

Used for its  anti-tussive, diaphoretic, expectorant, hepatic, and anti-microbial properties. Used for irritating bronchial coughs, especially in children. Also used for treatment of asthma and bronchial asthma, bronchial and gastric catarrh, chronic bronchitis, pertussis, pneumoconiosis, silicosis, tuberculosis, emphysematous conditions, and chronic cough

Electrolyte Analysis

Tests the basic chemicals in the body; sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate

Electrophysiology

Any method of recording electrical events in living organisms

ELISA

Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay–One of the leading biotechnology analysis and testing techniques. Provides detailed information on the amount (level) of antibodies in the bloodstream. Visualisation is typically made possible by enzyme induced color formation. A blood test used to detect antibodies to a foreign substance (for example, a virus)

Elixir

Sweetened aromatic preparation, about 25% alcohol, used as a vehicle for medicinal substances for its flavoring or medicinal qualities

ELT

Endoscopic Laser Therapy

EM

Esophageal Manometry

Embolectomy

The surgical removal of blood clot from arteries or veins

Emboli

Solid particles, usually a fragments of clotted blood or fatty deposits, carried along in the bloodstream

Embolism

The dissemination through blood vessels and lodgment of harmful substances, a blood clot, in remote locations, compromising the health of adjacent tissues

Embolus

Blood clot

Embrocation

Liniment

EMD

Esophageal Mobility Disorder

EMS

Emergency Medical Services

EMT

Emergency Medical Technician

Emesis

Vomiting

Emetic

Drug used to help induce vomiting

EMG

Electromyography, Electromyogram

-emia

(suffix)-Blood

Empiric

Based on experience

Empyema

Collection of pus

Emu Oil

Used for relief from insect bites and stings, burns and sunburns, cuts, scrapes, bruises, chapped lips and other minor skin irritations. Also used effectively to treat blemishes, diaper rash, hair care, hemorrhoids, Poison Ivy, scars, stretch marks, and warts. Shows anti-inflammatory effects on skin tissue. Because it penetrates the skin so quickly and deeply, provides fast, temporary relief from soreness, muscle aches, and leg cramps. Excellent skin hydrating product. Helps promote natural healing, rejuvenate dry skin, and freshen skin tissue. Readily alleviates the pain, in about 2 to 3 minutes, dramatically reduces tissue scarring & blistering.

EN

Enteral Nutrition, Enema

Encephalopathy

Brain disease, medical term used to describe a variety of brain function abnormalities that may affect some patients who have liver disease. Symptoms can include insomnia, confusion, disorientation. Alteration in sleep patterns and mental status, ranging from forgetfulness and mild confusion to coma; may be caused by circulating gut-derived brain-toxic proteins not cleared by a dysfunctional liver.

Endemic

Term to describe levels of infection which do not exhibit wide fluctuations through time in a defined place. For microparasites like measles, the term is used slightly differently to indicate an infection which can persist in a population in the long term without needing to be reintroduced from outside. Occuring continuously in a population

Endo

(prefix)-Within

Endocrine

Internal secretion related

Endocytosis

Process in which cells take in fluids or other large molecules

Endogenous

Without obvious external cause

Endoplasmic Reticulum

Extensive network of fine parallel membranes interspersed throughout the cytoplasm of the cell, used for the transport of substances inside of a cell

Endoscope

Thin, lighted tube through which a doctor can look at tissues inside the body

Endoscope Papillotomy

After endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography has been performed, a catheter (tube) with a wire is placed into the bile duct draining into the duodenum so that gallstones can be removed from the common bile duct

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography

Radiographic imaging of the bile ducts and pancreatic duct after the introduction of radio-opaque dye into the ampulla of Vater through an instrument ( endoscope ) passed down the throat, gullet, and stomach into the duodenum

Endoscopy

Internal examination using a fiber optic tube

Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal

Visual examination of the gastrointestinal tract by means of a fiberoptic endoscope. Used to localize, identify, and photograph pathologic alterations, obtain biopsy material and perform other surgical interventions, also used for the delivery of medication

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

ERCP–Diagnostic examination performed by a physician through an endoscope. A catheter is placed through the endoscope into the opening where the bile ducts and pancreas enter the duodenum and dye is injected. An x-ray is taken during the injection to permit the physician to see the system of ducts

Endoscopic, Surgical Procedures

Surgery performed with the use of an endoscope. Operative techniques may include use of lasers or electrocautery. The procedure is guided via visualization using fiber optics, video and other remote transmission. Advantages are briefer anesthesia and operative periods, reduced recovery time, shorter hospitalization, and generally less trauma for the patient

End Stage

Being or occurring in the final stages of a terminal disease or condition

End Stage Liver Disease

Stage when liver disease has progressed to the point where the liver can no longer carry out its functions properly. The only treatment for end-stage liver disease is liver transplantation

Enema

Rectal injection of liquid, used to encourage evacuation of the bowels

ENT

Ear, Nose, and Throat

Enteritis

Small intestine inflammation

Enter(o)

(prefix)-Intestine

Enterohepatic

Intestine and liver related

Enterostomal Therapy–ET–Nurse

Nurse skilled in caring for and teaching ostomy patients

Envelope

A lipid membrane enveloping a virus particle

Enzyme

Chemical substance that while remaining unchanged, helps a chemical reaction to take place. At the end of this reaction, the enzyme can help in other reactions of the same kind. Protein in the body that initiate and accelerate chemical reactions . Digestive enzymes act in the mouth, stomach, and intestines to break down food into simpler compounds usable for producing energy or for building various body substances. In case of enzyme deficiency, digestive enzymes, unlike other kinds, can readily be used by the body when provided by an external source. Alfalfa, Apple, Artichoke (leaves and root), Barley (malt), Carline thistle, Cascara sagrada (bark), Castor bean (oil), Dandelion (root), Papaya, Peppermint, Soybeans, Wood sorrel, Yellow bedstraw, all contain Enzymes

Enzyme Immunoassay

(EIA)–One of the leading biotechnology analysis and testing techniques. Provides detailed information on the amount of antibodies in the bloodstream

Eosinophilia

Increase in white blood cells

EPEC

Enteropathogenic

Ephedra

Also called Ma-huang . Used to treat bronchial asthma, aching joints and bones, cold and flu, chills, edema, headache, lack of perspiration, nasal congestion, and cough and wheezing

Epi

(prefix)-Upon; over

Epidemic

A rapid increase in the levels of an infection. Typical of the microparasitic infections (with long lasting immunity and short generation times) an epidemic is usually heralded by an exponential rise in the number of cases in time and a subsequent decline as susceptible numbers are exhausted. Epidemics may arise from the introduction of a novel pathogen (or strain) to a previously unexposed (naive) population or as a result of the regrowth of susceptible numbers some time after a previous epidemic due to the same infectious agent

Epidemic Fadeout

Parasite extinction occurring because numbers are so low immediately following an epidemic that it is possible for small stochastic fluctuations to remove all parasites

Epidemiological

Study of epidemics

Epidemiology

The study of patterns of disease in a population. Investigation of the causes of and ways to control epidemic diseases. Especially the factors that influence the incidence, distribution, and control of infectious diseases; the study of disease occurrence in human populations

Epidermis

Outermost, nonvascular layer of skin

Epigastralgia

Pain in the upper abdomen

Epigastric

Related to the upper abdominal area

Episome

Class of genetic elements of bacteria that may exist either as autonomous entities, replicating in the host independent of the bacterial chromosome, or as segments of the bacterial chromosome, replicating with it

Epistaxis

Nosebleed

Epitheliod

Resembling Epithelium

Epitheliod Cell

A macrophage with abundant cytoplasm causing it to resemble an epithelial cell: found in granulomas such as those of tuberculosis

Epithelioma

A form of cancer. A tumor derived from epithelium; usually a skin cancer, occasionally cancer of a mucous membrane

Epithelium

Covering of internal and external body surfaces

Epithelization

The growth of epithelium over a raw surface

Epithelize

To cover or to become covered with Epithelium

Epitope

An epitope is the chemical group which is recognized by the immune system. It is a small fragment (peptide) from an antigen (protein). The cellular immune response (CTL and HTL) is activated when CTL and HTL recognize epitopes from disease-causing antigens

Epstein-Barr Virus

A herpes virus which causes glandular fever

ER

Epigastric Region, Esophageal Rupture, Emergency Room

ERBD

Endoscopic Retrograde Biliary Drainage

ERC

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram, Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

Eroded

Having a shallow or superficial ulceration

Eructation

Belching

Eruption

Breaking out

Erythr, Erythro

Combining form meaning Red, Erythrocyte

Erythema

Redness of the skin occurring in patches of variable shape & size. Can be caused by many different things, Heat, Ultraviolet Rays, certain drugs, or ionizing radiation

Erythema Nodosum

Skin eruption, usually on the anterior surface of the legs, below the knees, of blue to pink, tender nodules that appear in crops, often associated with joint pain, seen more in women

Erythema Threshold

The amount of radiation that causes redness of the skin

Erythematous

Relating to, or causing, erythema

Erythrocyte Aggregation

Aggregation of erythrocytes probably resulting from changes in the negative surface charge [zeta potential] of the cells caused by the dielectric effect of proteins in the surrounding plasma, especially asymmetric macromolecules like fibrinogen and gamma-globulin

Erythrocyte Aging

Senescence of the red blood cell. Lacking the organelles that make protein synthesis possible, the mature erythrocyte is incapable of self-repair, reproduction, and carrying out certain functions performed by other cells. Average life span of an erythrocyte to 120 days

Erythrocyte Deformability

Ability of erythrocytes to change shape as they pass through narrow spaces, such as the microvasculature

Erythrocyte Indices

Quantification of size and cell hemoglobin content or concentration of the erythrocyte, usually derived from erythrocyte count, blood hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit Includes the mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), and mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). Use also for cell diameter and thickness

Erythropoiesis

Red cell production

ES

Endoscopic Sphinceterotomy, Esophagus, External Sphincter

ESO

Esophagus, Esophagoscopy

Esophageal

Related to the esophagus

Esophageal Varices

Varicose veins of the esophagus, which have lost the support of the surrounding tissue and are bulging into the channel of the esophagus, and are irritated by the passage of food. They are almost always due to changes in the liver circulation caused by cirrhosis

Esophagectomy

Operation to remove a portion of the esophagus

Esophagitis

Inflammation of the esophagus

Esophagoscopy

Examination of the esophagus using a thin, lighted instrument. Used to localize, identify, and photograph pathologic alterations, to obtain biopsy material and perform other surgical interventions, and for delivery of medication

Esophagram

Series of x-rays of the esophagus. X-ray pictures are taken after the patient drinks a solution that coats and outlines the walls of the esophagus

Esophagus

The muscular tube through which food passes from the throat to the stomach

ESR

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate

Essential

Can not be manufactured by the body

Ester

Any of a class of often fragrant compounds that can be represented by the formula RCOOR` and that are usually formed by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol usually with elimination of water

ESV

Esophageal Valve

ET

Endotracheal Tube, Enterostomal Therapy

ETA

Estimated Time of Arrival

ETEC

Enterotoxic, Enterotoxigenic

Ethanol

Grain alcohol; made from sugar, starch, and other carbohydrates by fermentation; has sedative properties

Etiology

The study of the causes of disease

ETOP

Etoposide

Eucalyptus

Used as a topical antiseptic, a gargle for sore throats and an inhalant to relieve asthma, bronchitis, croup and nasal congestion. Relieves congestion, prevents infection, eases muscle soreness. Never ingest eucalyptus oil. Taken internally, it’s very poisonous. Fatalities have been reported from taking as little as a teaspoonful. Teas are made only from the leaves. Do not give eucalyptus to children under the age of two

Euphrasia

Proven effective in reducing skin blemishes, clearing bloodshot eyes, and helping with impotence

European Vervain

Also known as Enchanter’s plant, Herb of the cross, Holy herb, Juno’s tears, Pigeon’s grass, Pigeonweed, and Simpler’s joy. Used as an astringent, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactagogue, stimulant, tonic, and vulnerary. A decoction is said to be good for eczema and other skin conditions. Also been used for  dropsy, jaundice, whooping cough, and kidney and liver problems. An infusion or decoction is used to help heal wounds

EUS

Endoscopic Ultrasonography

Evacuation

Emptying

Evening Primrose

Reduces high blood pressure, Aids in weight loss, helps to treat all skin disorders, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, alcoholism, female disorders such as cramps & heavy bleeding, hot flashes, and many other disorders

EVL

Esophageal Band Ligation

EVR

Early Virological Response

EVS

Esophageal Variceal Sclerotherapy

Ex (o)

Out of; away from; outside of

Exacerbation

Worsening

Exanthema

Skin rash

Excipient

Inactive part of drug

Excoriation

Breakdown of skin

Excrete

To discharge wastes from the blood or body tissues

Excretion

Removal of waste, Expelling or getting out of the body

Exfoliation

Shedding of cells

Excretory

Concerned with the process of elimination of waste products through urine and sweat

Exogenous

With an external origin

Expectorant

Substance used to expel mucus from the respiratory tract

Exponential Decay

A decline in which the rate of decay is always proportional to the amount of material remaining; the constant of proportionality is the rate constant

Exponential Growth

An increase in which the rate of growth is always proportional to the amount of material remaining; the constant of proportionality is the rate constant

Extension

Moving apart

External

Situated or occurring on the outside, many anatomical structures formerly called external are now more correctly termed lateral

External Oblique

Lower 8 ribs

Extracellular

Outside cells

Extracorporeal

Outside the body

Extract

Solution representing four to six times the strength of the crude drug. In herbalism, the desired constituents withdrawn from a plant by physical or chemical means or both

Extraction

Removal

Extrahepatic

Situated or originating outside the liver

Extravasation

Escape of blood or fluid into tissue

Extravascular

Outside a vessel

Exudate

Liquid that oozes from an inflamed area

Eyebright

Euphrasia Officinalis–Comes from the family Scrophulariaceae and may be taken as a tea, in a lotion or infusion form or capsules. May be used for conjunctivitis and other eye irritations, but has not been said to have any therapeutic properties for the treatment of eye disease. Useful for eyestrain, eye inflammations, and other eye ailments. Can relieve other symptoms that accompany runny, sore, itchy eyes due to colds or allergies. Considered to be an anti-catarrhal, astringent, and anti-inflammatory. Excellent remedy for problems of the mucous membranes. Internally, it also helps maintain good vision and eye health by supporting the liver among other organs in such a way as to cleanse the blood supply to the eyes. Helpful in acute or chronic inflammations, stinging and weeping eyes as well as over-sensitivity to light

© Vikki Shaw