Glossary of Medical Terms – P

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P

Phosphorus; Pressure

PABA

Para Aminobenzoic Acid. May be considered part of the Vitamin B complex. As a coenzyme, PABA functions in the breakdown and utilization of proteins and in the formation of red blood cells, aids healthy bacteria in producing folic acid; contains sun screening properties; aids in the assimilation of Pantothenic acid; and returns hair to its natural color. A deficiency of Para Amino Benzoic Acid may cause constipation, depression, digestive disorders, eczema, extreme fatigue, headaches, irritability, nervousness, and/or premature graying of the hair

Pa_CO2

Arterial carbon dioxide pressure

PA_O2

Alveolar oxygen pressure

Pa_O2

Arterial oxygen pressure

P_CO2

Carbon dioxide pressure (or tension)

PAF

Platelet Activating Factor

Pain Behavior

Observable actions other than descriptive speech arising out of the experience of pain

Palp

Refers to blood pressure taken under emergency conditions when listening for the systolic and diastolic pressures with a stethoscope is impossible. Taken by feeling (palpation) the pulse

Palpation

Act of feeling with the hand. Physical examination in medical diagnosis by pressure of the hand or fingers to the surface of the body , to determine the condition (as of size or consistency) of an underlying part or organ

Palpitation

Subjective sensation of unduly rapid or irregular heartbeat

Palliative

Giving relief but not cure

Palmar Erythema

Red Palms. Red palms are seen in people with advanced liver disease, due to expansion of small blood vessels (capillaries)

Palsy

Paralysis

Pancreas

A large, elongated, racemose gland situated transversely behind the stomach, between the spleen and the duodenum

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas

Pancytopenia

Low Red Blood Cell & low White Blood Count and low platelet count

Pandemic

An epidemic widely distributed in space

Pangamic Acid

Vitamin B-15. Exhibits antioxidant properties. Lowers blood cholesterol levels, Stimulates immune system response, Protect the liver from alcohol damage, cures fatigue, wards off hangovers, and assists in the regulation of hormones

Pantothenic Acid

B-complex vitamin necessary for the normal functioning of the adrenal gland, which directly affects growth. Essential for the formation of fatty acids. As a coenzyme, it participates in the utilization of riboflavin and in the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Improves the body’s resistance to stress; helps the adrenal glands, and fights infections by building antibodies. A deficiency of Pantothenic Acid may result in burning feet, digestive disorders, dizzy spells, muscle cramps, restlessness, retarded growth, skin abnormalities, stomach stress, and vomiting

PAO

Peak Acid Output

PAP

Pancreatitis Associated Protein

Papaya

Carica Papaya. Aids in the breakdown and metabolism of protein, exhibits anti-ulcer action, and helps relieve indigestion

Papilloma

Benign epithelial neoplasm

Papule

Mole

Para

Prefix meaning beside or near

Para-Aortic-Lymph nodes

Alongside the aorta, or major blood vessel carrying oxygen-rich blood to the body

Paracentesis

Fluid removal

Parasite

Organism that lives in or on another organism, usually causing damage to the host organism. Any disease causing organism. An organism exhibiting an obligatory dependence on another organism, its host, which is detrimental to the host

Parasitic

Parasite related

Parasiticide

Agent that kills parasites

Parathyroid

Thyroid related

Paravenous

Beside a vein

Parenchyma

Functional tissue of an organ. Internal anatomy of an organ

Parenchymal

Hepatocytes are parenchymal cells of the liver

Parenteral

Not by mouth, any substance that is introduced into the body anyway except by mouth. Not in or through the digestive system, introduced otherwise than by way of the intestines and occurring outside the intestine

Parenteral Transmission

Transmission of infection via the parenteral route; for example via contamination with infected blood or blood products

Paresis

Partial paralysis

Paresthesia

A perverted sensation of crawling, tingling or burning of the skin. Common in neuropathies

Parietal

Outer wall related

Parotitis

Swollen glands

Paroxysmal

In sudden attacks

Parsley

Petroselinum Sativum. Used as a carminative to relieve gas and stimulate digestive action, the root has been used for its mild diuretic activity, helping to increase urine output and rid the body of excess fluids. An excellent breath freshener

Passiflora

Edulis. Has a sedative and tranquilizing effect. Said to have an anti-spasmodic effect especially when associated tension

Passion Flower

Also called Maypop and Wild Passion Flower. Reduces spasms and depresses the central nervous system. Used as a sedative in nervous disorders, difficulties in sleeping, anxiety, restlessness, childbirth and menopause

Passive Immunity

Immunity which has been acquired through the transfer of maternal or other antibodies

Passive Immunization

An artificial and temporary conferring of immunity that does not actively involve the body’s own immune system. The patient is given immunoglobulins, or antibodies, to a virus, rather than learning to create his or her own. Thus the antibodies are not reproduced, and begin to disappear from the body shortly after immunization.

Pastille

Medicated lozenge

Pathogen

Disease producing organism. Any organism or substance capable of producing a disease. Same as Parasite

Pathogenicity

The degree to which a pathogen debilitates its host

Pathological

Disease study related

Pathologist

Doctor who identifies diseases by studying tissues and cells under a microscope, or who supervises diagnositic tests and conducts experiments or other investigations to determine the cause or nature of diseases

Path Urine

Urinalysis

Patient Compliance

Correctly following all the directions given by the doctor or other healthcare providers during the course of therapy

Pau D’Arco

Tabebuia Avellanedae. Tea prepared from the bark of various species of Tabebuia, a classification of about 100 broad-leaved, mostly evergreen trees, native to the West Indies and Central and South America. Exhibits numerous anti-viral properties and has an antibacterial agent which has a positive overall healing effect. A powerful immune system builder, blood cleanser. Has been used effectively for a AIDS, all strains of infection, allergies, cancer, candidiasis, diabetes, leukemia, liver disease, rheumatism, smoker’s cough, tumors, ulcers, and warts

PBX

Punch Biopsy

PCP

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia–A type of pneumonia seen primarily in patients whose immune systems are suppressed

PCPS

Peroral Cholangiopancreatoscopy

PCR

Polymerase Chain Reaction–A process used to amplify pieces of the genetic make-up of a cell or virus. The amplified pieces are then detected and the presence of the virus itself can be determined. Scientific method of detecting the presence in the bloodstream of minute quantities of DNA and RNA. ie. the RNA fragments from Hepatitis C cells. 2. An in vitro technique for rapidly synthesizing large quantities of a given DNA segment that involves separating the DNA into its two complementary strands, binding a primer to each single strand at the end of the given DNA segment where synthesis will start, using DNA polymerase to synthesize two-stranded DNA from each single strand, and repeating the process

PCT

Porphyria Cutanea Tarda

PD

Potential Difference

PDGF

Platelet-Derived Growth Factor

PE

Pharyngoesophageal

Peak flow

Lung power

Pectins

Kind of dietary fiber. Chemicals related to carbohydrates and are found in fruits and vegetables. Pectins work by binding with bile acids, decreasing cholesterol and fat absorption. Effective in preventing and treating gallstones. There is also evidence that the regular use of Pectin may lessen the severity of diabetes

Pectoral

Agent used to treat diseases of the respiratory tract, Related to the chest

Peer Review

The process by which a medical article is evaluated by experts before it is published. Although this process is effective in preventing flawed studies from being published before the flaws are corrected, it can occasionally stifle new ideas. The best traditional medical journals have rigorous peer review processes to ensure that only the most carefully conducted studies are published

PEG

Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy

Pegasys™

Peginterferon alfa-2a. (adverse events with Pegasys™ were similar to those seen with traditional interferon regimens, such as fatigue, headache, myalgia/arthralgia, flu-like symptoms, nausea/vomiting, injection site reactions, fever, chills, diarrhea, partial alopecia, abdominal pain, depression, irritability, insomnia, dizziness and anorexia

PEG Interferon

Interferon attached to molecule of Polyethylene Glycol; increased ½ life and renal clearance make it a long acting, weekly injection

Peliosis Hepatits

A condition in which microscopic pools of blood are present throughout the liver parenchyma, which may lead to congestion and necrosis. An abnormal condition characterized by the occurrence of numerous small blood-filled cystic lesions throughout the liver

Pellegra

Syndrome caused by a deficiency of niacin (or failure to convert tryptophan to niacin). Characterized by skin inflammation, inflammation of mucous membrmes, psychic disturbances and diarrhea

Penetration

The stage of viral replication at which the virus genome enters the cell

Pennyroyal

Mentha Pulegium. Used as a carminative to relieve gas, stimulate digestive action and to relieve nausea. A mild tea brewed from the leaves of this plant is often recommended to induce sweating to aid in eliminating toxins from the body

Pennywort

Centella Asiatica (L.) Urban. Also called Centella and Gotu Kola. See Gotu Kola

Peony

Paeonia Officinalis. Used for its antispasmodic, diuretic, and sedative properties. For treating epilepsy, gout, jaundice, bladder and kidney problems

Peppermint

Herb used for intestinal and nervous disorders. Used in teas, oil, tinctures. Can help relieve diarrhea, nasal congestion, soothe sore muscles and irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint oil is highly concentrated and should be used only in the small amounts. Pure menthol is poisonous and should never be taken internally

Pepsin

Enzyme produced in the stomach that breaks down protein into simpler molecules

Peptic

Digestion related

Peptic Ulcer

Open sore on the lining of the esophagus, duodenum or stomach. An ulcer in the stomach is called a gastric ulcer, an ulcer in the duodenum, a duodenal ulcer

Peptides

Any member of a class of compounds of low molecular weight which yield two or more amino acids on hydrolysis. Formed by loss of water from the NH2 and COOH groups of adjacent amino acids, they are known as di- tri-, tetra- (etc.) peptides, depending on the number of amino acids in the molecule. Peptides form the constituent parts of proteins

Peracute

Very acute and violent

Per Capita Rate

A rate which is proportional to the number of individuals in a population

Percutaneous

Through the skin, absorption or passage of substances into the body through unbroken skin. ie. absorbed through the skin or inhaled

Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiography

Diagnostic test in which an x-ray is taken of the gallbladder and bile ducts after a needle has been passed through the skin, ribs, and liver so that dye can be injected into the liver’s duct network

Perforated Ulcer

Ulcer that has extended through the full thickness of the wall of the stomach or the duodenum, allowing stomach juice to leak into the peritoneal cavity.

Perforation

Abnormal hole in the wall of a hollow organ

Perennial

Persistent

Perforation

Tearing or boring through a vessel, duct, intestine, or organ

Perfuse

To cause to flow or spread, to force a fluid through an organ or tissue especially by way of the blood vessels. i.e. perfuse a liver with salt solution

Perfusion

Through passage of fluid

Peri

Prefix meaning around

Periarthritis

Joint inflammation

Perihepatitis

Inflammation of the peritoneal capsule of the liver

Perinatal

Between the 28th week of pregnancy and the end of the first week of life

Perinatal Hepatitis

Hepatitis infection which can be seen to have occurred at or around the time of birth

Perinatal Transmission

Transmission of an infectious disease from Mother to infant. This can take place in the uterus during or after birth

Perineal

Related to the area around the pelvic region

Perineum

Area between the thighs, extending from the anus to the external genitals

Perioperative

Immediate pre and post operative

Perioral

Mouth related

Peripheral Neuropathy

Functional disturbance of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord

Peristalsis

Progressive wavelike muscular contractions that move materials through the upper GI tract

Peritoneal Dialysis

Method of purifying the blood by flushing the abdominal cavity with a dilute salt solution

Peritoneum

Transparent covering of the organs that lies just behind the muscular wall of the abdomen. Lining of the abdominal cavity

Peritonitis

Inflammation of the transparent membrane that covers most of the abdomen beneath the muscle layer. Usually due to intestinal perforation

Perivascular

Around a vessel

Periwinkle

An excellent astringent that may be used either internally or externally. Its main use is in the treatment of excessive menstrual flow, either during the menstrual period itself, or with blood loss between periods

Pernicious

Fatal

Peroral

By mouth

Peroxidation

Type of oxidation that results in the formation of peroxides in body tissues which contain high proportions of oxygen

Persistant

Disease or medical condition that is continued or repeated

Persistant Infection

Infections in which ongoing virus replication occurs, but the virus adjusts its replication and pathogenicity so as to avoid killing host. They differ from chronic infections in that whereas in chronic infections, the virus is usually eventually cleared by the host (unless the infection proves fatal), in persistent infections, the virus may continue to be present and to replicate in the host for its entire lifetime

Petechia(e)

Small, purplish red spot, caused by bleeding under the skin

pg

Picogram (=micromicrogram)

pH

Hydrogen ion concentration

PH

A numerical scale of 1-14 that measures the acidity-alkalinity of a substance. Normal arterial blood pH is approximately 7.4

Phagocytic

Pertaining to phagocytes –scavenger cells that ingest bacteria

Phagocytosis

Destruction of bacteria. The engulfing of microorganisms, other cells, and foreign particles by phagocytic cells

Pharmacognosy

Science encompassing those phases of knowledge relating to natural products which are generally of medicinal value and primarily of plant origin. Natural product medicine

Pharmacokinetic

Action of drugs in the body

Pharmacological

Drug science related

Pharmacology

Used with drugs and exogenously administered chemical substances for their effects on living tissues and organisms. Includes acceleration and inhibition of physiological and biochemical processes and other pharmacologic mechanisms of action

Pharmacon

Drug

PHC

Primary Heptacellular Carcinoma

Phenotype

The sum total of visible primary traits which characterize the members of a group. The visible expression of genotype

Phenylalanine

Essential amino acid. Precursor to tyrosine which is used to manufacture certain hormones (dopa, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine) which are important for the transmission of nerve impulses. As neurotransmitters, these substances are believed to influence mood, appetite control and memory. Also see DLPA

Phlebitis

Vein inflammation

Phlebography

Vein X-ray

Phlebotomy

The removal of blood from a vein for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes

Phosphatidyl Choline

Most significant component of Lecithin. Emulsifies and breaks down fat deposits in the body, which make it helpful in the prevention of gallstones, atherosclerosis, heart disease, and liver problems. Research has shown that Phosphatidyl Choline is beneficial in depression, memory loss and neurological disorders. It is 3 times more potent than Lecithin

Phosphoamino Acids

Amino acids that contain phosphorus as an integral part of the molecule

Phosphodiester Bond

Not a precise term. Refers to any molecule in which two parts are joined through a phosphate group. Examples are found in RNA, DNA, phospholipids, cyclic nucleotides, nucleotide diphosphates and triphosphates

Phospholipid

Also called Phosphatide. Fat or lipid containing phosphorus found in high quantities in the brain and very important to the function of cellular membranes and to the nervous system. Any of numerous lipids (as lecithins and sphingomyelin) in which phosphoric acid as well as a fatty acid is esterified to glycerol and which are found in all living cells and in the bilayers of plasma membranes

Phosphorolysis

A reversible reaction analogous to hydrolysis in which phosphoric acid functions in a manner similar to that of water with the formation of a phosphate (as glucose-1-phosphate in the breakdown of liver glycogen)

Phosphorus

Second most abundant mineral in the body found in every living cell. Involved in the proper functioning of both muscles and nerves. Needed for metabolic processes of all cells, to activate many other nutrients. The phosphorus content of the body is approximately one percent of total body weight. Phosphorus combines with fats to form phospholipids. It takes part in the production of energy for the body, and it is second only to calcium as a constituent of bones and teeth. Phosphorus is necessary for metabolic functions relating to the brain and the nerves, as well as for muscle action and enzyme formation.

Photodynamic Therapy

Treatment that destroys cancer cells with drugs and lasers that become active when exposed to light

Physiological

Normal

Phytochemical

Substances that occur naturally in plants and have been shown in research to possibly prevent or cure disease

Phytonutrient

Nutrient derived from a plant

Phytosterol

Sterol derived from plants

Pigmented Liver

One containing pigment, usually a result of malaria and melanemia, or the Dubin-Johnson syndrome

Pityriasis

Scaling of the skin

PL

Phospholipid

Placebo

A drug or treatment designed to appear identical to the actual treatment being tested, but lacking the active chemical. Placebos are sometimes referred to as sugar pills

Plantain

Used as an astringent, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, and hemostatic. Also used externally for various skin problems, including ringworm, and as a douche for leucorrhea

Plaque

Deposit of fatty buildup in the inner lining of the walls of an artery

Plasma

Clear yellowish part of the blood, lymph or intramuscular fluid in which cells are suspended. Also contains dissolved proteins

Plasma Cell

Large oval shaped cell that contains deeply staining chromatin material and is associated with the production of immunoglobulins

Plasma-Derived Mediators

Proteins which circulate in the plasma. They are rarely active in their native state, and more often require activation to be functional

Plasma Membrane

Delicate structure which encloses the cell, separating the contents of the cell from the surrounding environment

Plasma Protein

Blood protein

Plasma Expander

Blood expander

Plasmids

Any extrachromosomal replicating unit or hereditary determinant, also called paragene

Plasminogen

Part of the blood

Platelet

Smaller than a red blood cell, found in the blood, promotes coagulation, Thrombocyte

Platelet-Activating Factor

PAF–Phospholipid that is produced especially by mast cells and basophils, causes the aggregation of blood platelets and the release of blood-platelet substances (as serotonin or histamine), is a mediator of inflammation (as in asthma)

Platelet, Blood

One of the minute protoplasmic disks of vertebrate blood that assist in blood clotting, Platelet, Thrombocyte

Platelet Count

Thrombocytosis is seen in many inflammatory disorders and myeloproliferative states, as well as in acute or chronic blood loss, hemolytic anemias, carcinomatosis, status post-splenectomy, post- exercise, etc. Thrombocytopenia is divided pathophysiologically into production defects and consumption defects based on examination of the bone marrow aspirate or biopsy for the presence of megakaryocytes. Production defects are seen in Wiskott-Aldritch syndrome, May-Hegglin anomaly, Bernard-Soulier syndrome, Chediak-Higashi anomaly, Fanconi’s syndrome, aplastic anemia, marrow replacement, megaloblastic and severe iron deficiency anemias, uremia, etc. Consumption defects are seen in autoimmune thrombocytopenias (including ITP and systemic lupus), DIC, TTP, congenital hemangiomas, hypersplenism, following massive hemorrhage, and in many severe nfections

Platelet-Derived Growth Factor

A mitogenic growth factor that is found especially in platelets, consists of two polypeptide chains linked by bonds containing two sulfur atoms each, stimulates cell proliferation (as in connective tissue, smooth muscle, and neuroglia), and plays a role in wound healing

PLC

Phospholipase C. Primary Liver Cancer

Pledget

Absorbent cotton used to apply medication or to absorb another substance

Pleurisy Root

Used in the treatment of bronchitis and other chest conditions. An effective diaphoretic and anti-spasmodic. Used to treat pleurisy and pneumonia. Reduces inflammations and assists expectoration

Pleuritic

Related to the lining of the lungs and chest cavity; when describing pain, meaning that the pain is increased with deep breathing

Plexus

Network

Plication

A folding or putting together in pleats; specifically, an operation for reducing the size of a hollow viscus by taking folds or tucks in its walls

PMN

Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes

Pneumonia

Inflammation of the lung(s) caused by infection

po

Orally

PO₂

The oxygen tension in arterial blood

Poisson Distribution

The distribution which arises when parasites are distributed at random amongst hosts

Polio

Highly contagious infectious disease caused by a filterable virus and occurs mostly in children ; in its acute form it involves the spinal cord causing paralysis

Poly

Combining form meaning many or much

Polyarthritis

Simultaneous inflammation of several joints

Polyarthralgia

Pain in several joints unrelated to inflammation

Polycystic Disease

Cystic degeneration of the liver usually associated with congential polycystic kidneys

Polycystic Liver

Congenital cystic disease of the liver

Polycythemia

Polycythemia is defined as an increase in total body erythrocyte mass. As opposed to the situation with anemias, the physician may directly measure rbc mass using radiolabeling by chromium-51, so as to differentiate polycythemia (absolute erythrocytosis, as seen in polycythemia vera, chronic hypoxia, smoker’s polycythemia, ectopic erythropoietin production, methemoglobinemia, and high O2 affinity hemoglobins) from relative erythrocytosis (as seen in stress polycythemia and dehydration)

Polydipsia

Chronic thirst. Excess drinking

Polymorphic

In a variety of shapes

Polymorphism

Literally means “many shapes.” A polymorphism is any physical manifestation between a species of living organisms which is variable through genetic influence. The blood types are a well-known polymorphism

Polyphagia

Excess appetite

Polyposis

Presence of several polyps

Polyprotein

A long polypeptide encoding several mature proteins which are subsequently released by protease cleavage

Polyps

Mass of tissue that protrudes from the mucous lining of an organ such as the intestine

Polysaccharides

Carbohydrates that can be broken down into two or more simple sugars

Polymerase

Enzymes that catalyse the synthesis of nucleic acids on preexisting nucleic acid templates, assembling RNA from ribonucleotides or DNA from deoxyribonucleotides

Polymerase Chain Reaction–PCR

The first practical system for in vitro amplification of DNA and as such one of the most important recent developments in molecular biology. Two synthetic oligonucleotide primers, which are complementary to two regions of the target DNA (one for each strand) to be amplified, are added to the target DNA (that need not be pure), in the presence of excess deoxynucleotides and Taq polymerase, a heat stable DNA polymerase. In a series (typically 30) of temperature cycles, the target DNA is repeatedly denatured (around 90_C), annealed to the primers (typically at 50-60_C) and a daughter strand extended from the primers (72_C). As the daughter strands themselves act as templates for subsequent cycles, DNA fragments matching both primers are amplified exponentially, rather than linearly. The original DNA need thus be neither pure nor abundant and the polymerase chain reaction has accordingly become widely used not only in research, but in clinical diagnostics and forensic science

Polytherapy

Treatment using several drugs

Polyunsaturated Fat

Highly unsaturated fat that is found in greatest amounts in foods from plants, including corn, safflower, soybean and sunflower oils. When substituted for saturated fat, polyunsaturated fat helps reduce blood cholesterol

Polyuria

Production of excessive amounts of urine, causing frequent urination, in this case because of the loss of body water in the urine, accompanying the loss of large amounts of sugar (glucose)

Polyvalent

Specific for more than one antigen

Poorly Differentiated

Referring to a malignancy, not possessing histological characteristics of the originating tissues – usually a feature of pathological aggression

Porphyria, Acute Intermittent

A form of hepatic porphyria characterized by periodic attacks of gastrointestinal disturbances, abdominal colic, paralyses, and psychiatric disorders. The onset of this condition is usually in the third or fourth decade of life

Porphyria Cutanea Tarda

A form of hepatic porphyria characterized by photosensitivity resulting in bullae that rupture easily to form shallow ulcers. This condition occurs in two forms: a sporadic, nonfamilial form that begins in middle age and has normal amounts of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase with diminished activity in the liver; and a familial form in which there is an autosomal dominant inherited deficiency of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase in the liver and red blood cells

Porphyria, Hepatic

Porphyria in which the liver is the site where excess formation of porphyrin or its precursors is found

Portacaval Shunt

A surgical shunt by which the portal vein is made to empty into the inferior vena cava in order to bypass a damaged liver

Porta Hepatis

Also called Transverse Fissure. The fissure running transversely on the underside of the liver where most of the vessels enter or leave

Portal

Communicating part or area of an organism, such as Portal Vein. The point at which something enters the body. Of or relating to the Porta Hepatis

Portal Circulation

Pertaining to the flow of blood through the portal vein

Portal Cirrhosis

Laennec’s Cirrhosis

Portal Hypertension

From fibrosis and regenerative nodules, which disrupt the portal venous blood flow, increased pressure in the blood vessels entering the liver, which often occurs with cirrhosis. Portal hypertension can result in ascites or edema

Portal System

A system of veins that begins and ends in capillaries

Portal System, Hepatic

A group of veins that carry blood from the capillaries of the stomach, spleen, intestine, and pancreas to the sinusoids of the liver

Portal Vein

Large vein through which oxygen-depleted blood from the spleen, intestines, gallbladder, stomach and the pancreas flows to the liver. The principle tributaries to the portal vein are the lienal vein, with blood from the stomach, the greater omentum — a curtain of membrane and fat that hangs down over the intestines, the pancreas, the large intestine and the spleen; the superior mesenteric vein, with blood from the small intestine and part of the large intestine; the pyloric veins, with blood from the stomach; and the cystic veins, with blood from the gallbladder. In the liver the blood from the portal vein flows through a network of microscopic vessels called sinusoids in which the blood is relieved of worn out red cells, bacteria, and other debris and in which nutrients are added to the blood or removed from it for storage. The blood leaves the liver by way of the hepatic veins

Portal Venule

The final branch of the portal venous system that arises from a terminal portal vein or conducting PV, and enters the parenchyma to form a vascular septum. Also called a “septal” PV

Post

After

Posterior

Towards or at the back of

Postnecrotic Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver following widespread necrosis of liver cells especially as a result of hepatitis

Posthepatitic

Occurring after and especially as a result of hepatitis. Occurring or located behind the liver

Post transfusion Hepatitis

Hepatitis that occurs following a transfusion

Potassium

Mineral that serves as an electrolyte and is involved in the balance of fluid within the body. Our bodies contain more than twice as much potassium as sodium (typically nine ounces versus four ounces). About 98 percent of total body potassium is inside our cells. The principal cation (positive ion) of the fluid within cells. It is important in controlling the activity of the heart, muscles, nervous system and just about every cell in the body. Also regulates the water balance and acid-base balance in the blood and tissues. Evidence is showing that potassium is also involved in bone calcification. Potassium is a co-factor in many reactions, especially those involving energy production and muscle building. Increase in serum potassium is seen in states characterized by excess destruction of cells, with redistribution of K+ from the intra- to the extracellular compartment, as in massive hemolysis, crush injuries, hyperkinetic activity, and malignant hyperpyrexia. Decreased renal K+ excretion is seen in acute renal failure, some cases of chronic renal failure, Addison’s disease, and other sodium-depleted states. Hyperkalemia due to pure excess of K+ intake is usually iatrogenic. Drugs causing hyperkalemia include amiloride, aminocaproic acid, antineoplastic agents, epinephrine, heparin, histamine, indomethacin, isoniazid, lithium, mannitol, methicillin, potassium salts of penicillin, phenformin, propranolol, salt substitutes, spironolactone, succinylcholine, tetracycline, triamterene, and tromethamine. Spurious hyperkalemia can be seen when a patient exercises his/her arm with the tourniquet in place prior to venipuncture. Hemolysis and marked thrombocytosis may cause false elevations of serum K+ as well. Failure to promptly separate serum from cells in a clot tube is a notorious source of falsely elevated potassium. Decrease in serum potassium is seen usually in states characterized by excess K+ loss, such as in vomiting, diarrhea, villous adenoma of the colorectum, certain renal tubular defects, hypercorticoidism, etc. Redistribution hypokalemia is seen in glucose/insulin therapy, alkalosis (where serum K+ is lost into cells and into urine), and familial periodic paralysis. Drugs causing hypokalemia include amphotericin, carbenicillin, carbenoxolone, corticosteroids, diuretics, licorice, salicylates, and ticarcillin

Potassium Chloride

Potassium is a vital element in the body. Potassium supplements help prevent and treat potassium deficiency in people taking diuretics

Potentialization

Joint action of two drugs

Potentiation

Joint action of two drugs

Poultice

Soft mass, usually heated then spread on cloth and applied to sores or inflamed areas to relieve pain, supply warmth, or to act as a antiseptic or counterirritant

PP

Pancreatic Polypeptide

PPD

Purified Protein Derivative (tuberculin)

PPJ

Pure Pancreatic Juice

ppm

Parts Per Million

Pre

Prefix meaning in front of

Precancerous

Unusual changes in body cells that may or may not become cancerous

Preclinical

Before the disease becomes recognizable

Precursor

Forerunner, Parent Substance

PRED

Prednisone

Predisposition

Tendency

Prednisone

Anti-inflammatory drug used in the treatment of arthritis, asthma, autoimmune hepatitis and given post transplant

Pre-existing Condition

A medical problem that existed before or at the time of a defined date

Preoperative

Before an operation

Presentation

Angle

Presurface Protein 1, Hepatitis B Surface Antigen

226 amino acid product of hepatitis B virus S gene + 163 amino acids; may be important in virion assembly & infectivity

Presynaptic

Before a nerve/organ joint

Prevalence

The proportion of the host population infected (or with some marker of past or present infection) at a particular time.
In regard to hepatitis, prevalence relates to the number of cases in the community at any one time. It is usually expressed as a percentage or ratio. eg. 1% of the population, or 1 in 100 people

Prevalence Models

Prevalence models are compartmental models dividing the host population into, for example, susceptible, latent, infectious and immune individuals

Prevention

Getting rid of or staying away from things or behaviors known to cause diseases

Prickly Ash Bark

Has anti-tubercular properties

Primary

First

Primary Carcinoma of the Liver

Metastatic malignant neoplasm, ususally from breast, lung, or gastrointestinal cancer

Primary Lobule

The cone-shaped zone of parenchyma formed by the sinusoids given off by 2 adjacent portal venules. The primary lobule thus encompasses 2 portal venules, their inlet sinusoids, hepatic arterioles, bile ductules, and canals of Hering

prn

As needed

Pro

Prefix meaning before or in front of

Proanthocyanidins

Class of compounds found in the family of bioflavonoids

Probiotic

Refers to organisms and substances which contribute to intestinal microbial balance. They are beneficial or “friendly” intestinal bacteria

Proctitis

Inflammation of the rectum lining

Proctologist

Physician who specializes in treating disorders of the anus and rectum

Proctoscope

Short, rigid metal tube that can be inserted into the rectum and anus, permitting an internal examination of these organs

Prodromal

Fore running symptoms of infection. Occuring Before

Progeny

Offspring of animals or plants

Prognosis

Outlook, Prediction of probable outcome or course of a disease; Chance of recovery

Prolapse

Falling down or sinking in. Slipping  or falling of a body part from its usual position

Proliferation

Multiplication

Proline

Non-essential amino acid. Helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles, important for the proper functioning of joints and tendons

Promiscuity

Sexual activity that is not limited to one partner

Prophylactic

Any agent or device that prevents or helps to prevent the development of disease

Prophylactic Medication

Medication that helps prevent disease

Prophylaxis

Prevention of disease. In Military Medicine–Measures taken to prevent or reduce the harmful effects of chemical agents

Propulsive

Driving

Prospective Study

A study in which people are initially enrolled and then followed up at subsequent times

Prostaglandin

Fatty acid

Prostate Gland

Gland in men that surrounds the neck of the bladder and the urethra and produces a secretion that liquefies coagulated semen

Protease

Enzyme that digests proteins. Any enzyme which acts upon the peptide bonds of proteins and peptides; a protein-splitting or hydrolyzing enzyme

Protein

Nitrogen rich compounds that are formed from a complex series of amino acids. Fundamental to many of the processes of life, fundamental building blocks for much of the substance of cellular and non-cellular life

Proteins

Nitrogenous organic compounds, containing more than about 100 amino acid residues, molecular weight 8,000-200,000, in vegetable and animal matter. Proteins yield amino acids on hydrolysis and are foods assimilated as amino acids and reconstructed in the protoplasm

Proteins, Viral

Proteins found in any species of virus

Protein X, Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus

RN refers to strain New York; amino acid sequence has been determined

Proteolytic

Property of a substance that breaks down proteins

Proteolyzed

Having been subjected to proteolysis

Prothrombin

Blood factor II

Prothrombin Time

The ratio between the time it takes a test sample of blood to clot after addition of optimal quantities of calcium and the natural clotting stimulator thromboplastin compared with the time for a standard containing a normal quantity of the clotting precursor fibrinogen, which is reduced by the anticoagulant Coumadin

Protocol

Step by Step procedure that is followed in order to perform a task

Protozoon

Single cell creature

Provirus

Virus that has become and integral part of the host cell chromosome and is transmitted from one cell generation to another

Proximal

Nearest to or next to a point of reference

Prurigo

Chronic inflammatory skin disease marked by a general eruption of small, itching, pus-filled bumps

Pruritic

Itchy

Pruritus

Itching

PS

Pyloric Stenosis

PSC

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

Pseudo

Combining form signifying false or spurious

Pseudotumor

Tumor like growth

psi

Pounds per Square Inch

Psoriasis

Common chronic, squamous dermatosis, marked by exacerbations and remissions and having a polygenic inheritance pattern. The most distinctive histological findings in well-developed psoriasis are Munro microabscesses and spongiform pustules. It is characterized clinically by the presence of rounded, circumscribed, erythematous, dry, scaling patches of various sizes, covered by grayish white or silvery white, umbilicated, and lamellar scales, which have a predilection for the extensor surfaces, nails, scalp, genitalia, and lumbosacral region. Central clearing and coalescence of the lesions produce a wide variety of clinical configurations, including annular or circinate, discoid or nummular, figurate, and gyrate arrangements. Also called psoriasis vulgaris

PSPD

Posterior Superior Pancreaticoduodenal Artery

PSU

Primary Site Undetermined

Psychogenic

Caused by mental factors

Psycholeptic

Hopelessness and inertia related

Psychosomatic

The production of physical illness or symptoms by emotional or psychological disturbance, with absent or limited awareness

Psychotropic

Mood altering drug

Psyllium

Plantago Psyllium. Helps rid the body of excess cholesterol. Excellent laxative that offers relief from hemorrhoid and gastrointestinal irritations

PTHBD

Percuateous Transhepatic Biliary Dishcharge

PTHC

Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiography

PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

PU

Peptic Ulcer

PU/PD

Polyuria and Polydipsia

PUD

Peptic Ulcer Disease

PUFA

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid

Pulmonary Embolism

Obstruction of blood vessels in the lung,or pulmonary artery by a blood clot or other material

Pulse

A pulsating artery that gives evidence that the heart is beating, usually about 70 times per minute

Pumpkin Seed

Has the ability to rid the body of intestinal parasites such as roundworms and tapeworms

Punctum

Spot, point or minute orifice

Purgative

Strong laxative, Substance that causes vigorous evacuation of the bowels

Purge

Cleanse, to get rid of anything undesirable

Purpura

Blood spots, bruising and discoloring to skin. Bleeding under the skin.

Purulent

Pusy, containing, consisting of, forming pus, Foul

PV

Portal Vein

Pycnogenol

Trademark for specific bioflavonoids extracted from pine bark. Reduces inflammation and the pain of arthritis and other conditions, an antioxidant, fighting the corrosive free radicals that damage cells and promote a variety of life-threatening conditions, Stabilizes the vital protein collagen, improving skin and blood vessel health

Pygeum

Used for the treatment of prostatic hypertrophy

Pylorus

Opening from the stomach into the duodenum

Pyogenic

Formation of pus

Pyrexia

Fever

Pyridoxine

Vitamin B-6. A B-complex vitamin that plays a role as a coenzyme in the breakdown and utilization of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Facilitates the release of glycogen for energy from the liver and muscles. Also participates in the utilization of energy in the brain and nervous tissue and is essential for the regulation of the central nervous system. A deficiency of Pyridoxine may result in anemia, insomnia, nervousness, skin eruptions, loss of hair, loss of muscular control, mouth disorders, muscular weakness, dermatitis, arm & leg cramps, slow learning, and water retention

Pyrogenic, Pyrogen

Fever inducing, capable of producing fever; Of or relating to the production of a fever

Pyrosis

Heartburn

PYY

Peptide YY

© Vikki Shaw