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Medical Word Parts For: p

Word PartDefinition
pafter
p waveMarks atrial depolarization. In a normal EKG, it precedes the QRS complex.
P-Aposteroanterior
p.c.after meals
p.r.n.as needed
PAPhysician Assistant
PACpremature atrial contraction
pacemakerA device designed to use electric impulses to simulate heart contractions.
pachy-thick
Paco2partial pressure of carbon dioxide in alveolar gas
PADperipheral arterial disease
PAFplatelet activating factor
painAn unpleasant or distressing localized sensation induced by noxious stimuli which are detected by nerve endings of nociceptive neurons.
palat/opalate
palateThe structure that forms the roof of the mouth. It consists of the anterior hard palate and the posterior soft palate.
pale/oearly, primitive, old
palliative medicineA branch of medicine concerned with preventing and relieving the suffering of patients in any stage of disease and improving the quality of the patient's life.
pallorA clinical manifestation consisting of an unnatural paleness of the skin.
palpationUse of fingers with light pressure as part of a physical exam.
palpebr/oeyelid
PALSpediatric advanced life support
pan-all
pancreasAn irregularly shaped gland, located behind the stomach, that secretes pancreatic juice into the duodenum and insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin into the bloodstream.
pancreat/opancreas
pancreatectomyRemoval of the pancreas.
pancreatitisInflammation in the pancreas.
pandemicA widespread epidemic of infectious disease.
panicA state of extreme acute, intense anxiety and unreasoning fear.
panic attackFear response that is out of proportion for the situation.
panniculitisGeneral term for inflammation of adipose tissue, usually of the skin, characterized by reddened subcutaneous nodules.
pant/owhole, all
panuveitisInflammation of both the anterior and posterior segments of the uvea tract.
PapPap test Papanicolaou smear
papill/onipple, optic disc
papillaA small, nipple-like projection.
papilledemaSwelling of the optic disk due to increased intracranial pressure.
papillomaA benign epithelial tumor derived from epithelium and projecting from the surrounding surface
papul/opapule, pimple
papuleA solid raised lesion that has distinct borders and is less than 1 cm in diameter.
-parato bear offspring
para-similar, beside
paradoxA statement, finding or condition, that, despite apparently sound reasoning from true premises, leads to a self-contradictory or a logically unacceptable conclusion.
paraffinA mixture of solid hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum.
paragangliomaA neoplasm derived of the tissue composing the paraganglia.
paralysisLoss of muscle function.
paramedicalPertaining to certain adjunctive healthcare professions, particularly trained emergency responders.
parametritisInflammation of the parametrium, the connective tissue of the pelvic floor.
parametriumThe lateral extension of the uterine connective tissue into the broad ligament.
paranasal sinusesAir-filled cavities located around the nasal cavity. There are four pairs: frontal, sphenoid, maxillary and ethmoid.
paranoiaOverly suspicious behavior.
paranoid behaviorBehavior exhibited by individuals who are overly suspicious, but without the symptoms characteristic of paranoid personality disorder or schizophrenia.
paranoid disordersChronic mental disorders in which there has been an insidious development of a permanent and unshakeable delusional system, but with clear and orderly thinking. Emotional responses and behavior are consistent with the delusional state.
paraparesisWeakness or partial paralysis of the lower extremities.
paraphasiaA condition in which the patient uses wrong words, creating unintelligible sentences.
paraphimosisA condition in which the foreskin, once retracted, cannot return to its original position. If this condition persists, it can lead to painful constriction of glans penis, swelling, and impaired blood flow to the penis.
paraplegiaParalysis affecting the legs.
parasiteInvertebrate organisms that live on or in another organism.
parasomniaAny of a group of sleep disorders characterized by unwanted behaviors or perceptions that occur during sleep or partial arousal from sleep, including sleepwalking, night terrors, and frequent nightmares.
paratenonThe fatty or synovial tissue between a tendon and its sheath.
parathyroid glandsTwo pairs of small oval-shaped glands located in the front and the base of the Neck and adjacent to the two lobes of thyroid gland. they secrete parathyroid hormone that regulates the balance of calcium; phosphorus; and magnesium in the body.
parathyroidectomySurgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands.
paresisA general term referring to slight or incomplete paralysis.
-paresisweakness, slight paralysis
paresthesiaA sensation of tingling or numbness, skin crawling, or itching without apparent cause.
parietal boneOne of a pair of irregularly shaped quadrilateral bones situated between the frontal bone and occipital bone, which together form the sides of the cranium.
parietal lobeUpper central part of the cerebral hemisphere. It is located posterior to central sulcus, anterior to the occipital lobe, and superior to the temporal lobes.
parityThe number of viable offspring a female has borne.
Parkinson diseaseA progressive disease of the nervous system that affects movement.
paronychiaAn infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail.
parotid glandEither of the pair of salivary glands that lie on the sides of the face immediately below and in front of the ear.
parotitisInflammation of the parotid gland.
paroxysmA spasm or convulsion.
paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardiaA very rapid heartbeat that occurs sporadically. Usually lasts from a few seconds to several hours.
-partumchildbirth
parturitionThe act of giving birth to one or more offspring.
pasteurizationHeating of certain beverages, such as milk, to a specific temperature for a fixed time interval in order to kill microorganisms.
PATparoxysmal atrial tachycardia
patellaThe flat, triangular bone about 5 cm in diameter, situated at the anterior part of the knee. Also called the kneecap.
path/odisease
pathogenA disease causing microorganism such as bacterium, virus or fungus.
pathologic processesThe abnormal mechanisms and forms involved in the dysfunctions of tissues and organs.
pathologicalPertaining to or caused by disease.
pathologyA medical specialty concerned with the nature of disease and its causes, processes, development, and consequences.
-pathydisease
patulousOpen or exposed.
Pblead
PCApatient-controlled analgesia
PDParkinson disease
PD (2)pupillary distance
PDApatent ductus arteriosus
PDRPhysicians' Desk Reference
PEphysical examination
PE (2)pulmonary embolism
PEApulseless electrical activity
peak flow meterSimple device that allows asthma patients to check lung airflow.
pectenThe middle, narrow zone in the anal canal.
pector/ochest
pectoralRelating to the thorax.
pectus carinatumThe chest or breast.
ped/ochild, foot
pediatricsA medical specialty concerned with maintaining health and providing medical care to children from birth to adolescence.
pediculosisHead lice.
pedophiliaAn adult abnormal attraction to children for sexual purposes.
peduncleA stalk like structure that serves as a support or connection.
PEEPpositive end expiratory pressure
PEFRpeak expiratory flow rate
PEGpercutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
pellagraA disease characterized by scaly dermatitis, diarrhea and dementia caused by a deficiency of niacin and protein in the diet.
pellicleA thin skin, film or organic membrane
pelv/ipelvis
pelvic floorThe connective tissues and muscles that lie beneath and support the perineum and pelvis. It extends between the pubic bone anteriorly and the coccyx posteriorly.
pelvisThe lower portion of the trunk, bounded anteriorly and laterally by the two hip bones and posteriorly by the sacrum and coccyx.
pemphigusAny of several rare diseases characterized by groups of itching blisters.
-peniadeficiency
penicillinAny of a group of antibiotics derived from cultures of the mold like fungi Penicillium or produced synthetically.
penisThe external reproductive organ of males.
penta-five
-pepsiadigestion
peptic ulcerUlcer that occurs in the regions of the gastrointestinal tract which come into contact with gastric juice.
peptidesMembers of the class of compounds composed of amino acids joined together by peptide bonds between adjacent amino acids into linear, branched or cyclical structures.
perceptionThe process by which the nature and meaning of sensory stimuli are recognized and interpreted.
percussionAct of striking a part with short, sharp taps in diagnosing the condition beneath the sound obtained.
percutaneousThrough the skin.
perforationAbnormal opening in a hollow organ or viscus.
performance anxietyAnxiety related to the execution of a task, especially with an audience.
perfusionDelivery of blood to the capillaries.
peri-around, surrounding
periapicalAround an apex, especially the apex of a root of a tooth.
periarthritisInflammation of the tissues around a joint capsule.
pericardi/opericardium
pericardial effusionFluid accumulation within the pericardium. Severe cases can lead to cardiac tamponade.
pericardial fluidWatery fluid produced in the serous and visceral pericardium surrounding the surface of the heart
pericardial friction rubAn extra heart sound that resembles squeaky leather. May be heard in pericarditis.
pericardiocentesisPuncture and aspiration of fluid from the pericardium.
pericarditisInflammation of the pericardium, caused by infection, injury, or drugs.
pericardiumA thin layered sac enclosing the heart. Fluid between the layers lubricates the constantly moving surfaces.
pericoronitisInflammation of the gingiva surrounding the crown of a tooth.
perihepatitisInflammation of the peritoneal capsule of the liver
perimenopauseThe period of time before menopause when a woman's body changes.
perimetritisInflammation of the peritoneal covering of the uterus
perinatalPertaining to the period three months before to one month after birth.
perine/operineum (surface region in both males and females between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx)
perinephritisInflammation of the connective and adipose tissues surrounding the KIDNEY.
perineumThe body region lying between the genital area and the anus on the surface of the trunk, and to the shallow compartment lying deep to this area that is inferior to the pelvic diaphragm. The surface area is between the vulva and the anus in the female, and between the scrotum and the anus in the male.
periodontalAround a tooth.
periodonticsA dental specialty concerned with the histology, physiology, and pathology of the tissues that support, attach, and surround the teeth, and of the treatment and prevention of disease affecting these tissues.
periodontitisInflammation and loss of connective tissues supporting or surrounding the teeth.
periorbital edemaA condition in which the tissues around the eyes become swollen. Puffy eyes.
periosteumThick, fibrous membrane covering the surface of a bone except its articular cartilage and areas where it attaches to tendons and ligaments.
periostitisInflammation of the periosteum.
peripartum periodThe period shortly before, during, and immediately after giving birth.
peripheral neuropathyDysfunction of peripheral nerves which can impair movement, sensation and organ function.
periphlebitisInflammation of the tissues around a vein
peristalsisA movement, caused by sequential muscle contraction, that pushes the contents of the intestines or other tubular organs in one direction.
peritone/operitoneum (serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity)
peritoneal absorptionUptake of substances from the peritoneal cavity.
peritoneal cavityThe space enclosed by the peritoneum. It is divided into two portions, the greater sac and the lesser sac or omental bursa, which lies behind the STOMACH. The two sacs are connected by the foramen of Winslow, or epiploic foramen.
peritoneal dialysisDialysis fluid being introduced into and removed from the peritoneal cavity.
peritoneumThe serous membrane that lines the walls of the abdominal cavity and folds inward to enclose the viscera.
peritonitisInflammation of the peritoneum lining the abdominal cavity as the result of infectious, autoimmune, or chemical processes.
perlecheFissures and cracks at the corner of the mouth
permeabilityProperty of membranes and other structures to permit the passage of substances, heat and light.
perniciousDiseases that are highly dangerous or fatal.
pernicious anemiaVitamin B12 deficiency anemia. A type of megaloblastic anemia.
pero-deformed
peronealPertaining to the fibula.
PERRLApupils equal, regular, react to light and accommodation
pertussisWhooping cough. Contagious bacterial infection of the upper respiratory tract. Cold-like symptoms followed by many weeks of coughing. Preventable with immunization.
pest/ipests, plague
pesticideA substance used to destroy pests.
PETpositron emission tomography
-petalmoving forward
petechiaA small, round, dark-red spot caused by intradermal or submucous hemorrhage.
petechiaeTiny flat round red spots under the skin surface caused by intradermal hemorrhage. Spots do NOT blanch with pressure.
petr/ostone, stone-like hardness
-pexysurgical fixation
Peyronie diseaseA condition where plaques form under the skin of the penis, causing the penis to bend.
PFTpulmonary function test
PHpast medical history
phac/opertaining to lens
phag/oeat, swallow
-phagiaeating, swallowing
phagocytosisThe engulfing and degradation of microorganisms.
-phagyeating, devouring
phak/opertaining to lens
phalangesFingers or toes
phalangitisInflammation of a finger or toe.
phall/openis
phantom limbPhantom sensations that occur following the complete or partial loss of a limb.
Pharmpharmacy
pharmac/odrugs
pharmacologyThe study of the origin, nature, properties, and actions of drugs and their effects on living organisms.
pharmacyThe art and the facility for the preparation and dispensing of drugs.
pharyng/othroat
pharyngealOf, or pertaining to, or coming from the pharynx.
pharyngitisSore throat. Inflammation of the throat.
pharynxThe throat. A fibromuscular tube that conducts air to the larynx and lungs and food to the esophagus.
phas/ospeech
-phasiaspeech
phenolA strong disinfectant.
phenotypeThe outward appearance of the individual.
phenylketonuriaAny of a group of autosomal recessive disorders of the ability to metabolize phenylalanine.
-pheresisremoval
pheromonesChemical substances, excreted by an organism into the environment, that elicit behavioral or physiological responses from other organisms of the same species.
-philattraction
phil/oattraction
-philiaaffinity for
phimosisA condition of a narrowed or tightened foreskin that cannot be retracted to reveal the glans penis.
phleb/ovein
phlebitisInflammation of a vein, commonly a vein in the leg.
phlebo-vein
phlebographyAn invasive imaging study of leg veins with a contrast agent injects using a catheter. Phlebography is the most accurate test for detecting deep vein thrombosis.
phlebotomyThe techniques used to draw blood from a vein for diagnostic purposes.
phlegmMucus in the respiratory airways (trachea, bronchial tree).
phob/ofear, adversion
-phobiaabnormal fear
phon/osound, voice
phonationTo vocalize.
phonocardiogramA waveform of heart sound amplitude over time, usually a few heartbeats.
phor/oto carry
-phorecarrier, processor
phot/olight
photalgiaPain in the eye causes by bright light.
photophobiaAbnormal sensitivity to light.
photoreceptor cellsSpecialized cells that detect and transduce light.
photoretinitisInjury to the retina of the eye caused by looking directly into the sun without protection.
photosynthesisThe synthesis by organisms of organic compounds, especially carbohydrates, from carbon dioxide using energy obtained from light .
phototherapyTreatment of disease by exposure to light, especially by specific wavelengths.
phototrophicCapable of deriving energy from light.
phreni-diaphragm, mind
phrenicPertaining to the diaphragm.
phyl/orace, species, type
-phylaxisprotection
phyllo-leaf
physi-physical, natural
physiatristA doctor specializing in the physiological treatment of patients with conditions affecting movement. Often used in stroke rehabilitation.
physical examinationSystematic and thorough inspection of the patient for physical signs of disease or abnormality.
physiciansIndividuals licensed to practice medicine.
-physisgrowth, growing
physo-swelling, gas
phyt-plants
PIpresent illness; previous illness
pico-one trillionth
PIDpelvic inflammatory disease
-piesispressure
piez/opressure
pigmentationColoration or discoloration of a part by a pigment.
PIHpregnancy-induced hypertension
pil/ohair
piloerectionThe standing up of hairs on the skin
pilonidal sinusA hair-containing cyst or sinus, occurring chiefly in the coccygeal region.
pineal glandA light-sensitive neuroendocrine organ attached to the roof of the Third ventricle of the brain. the pineal gland secretes melatonin, other biogenic amines and neuropeptides.
pintaA contagious bacterial skin disease prevalent in tropical America.
PIPproximal interphalangeal
pituitar/opituitary
pituitary adenomaBenign epithelia neoplasm of the pituitary.
pituitary glandA small, oval, unpaired, endocrine gland connected to the hypothalamus by a short stalk which is called the infundibulum. Its secretions control the other endocrine glands and influence growth, metabolism, and maturation.
pityriasisAny of a group of skin diseases characterized by the formation of fine, branny scales. This term is but only with a modifier.
PKUphenylketonuria
placeboAny dummy medication or treatment.
placentaA vascular organ that develops during pregnancy, lining the uterine wall and partially enveloping the fetus. The placenta produces an array of steroid, protein and peptide hormones .
placenta previaA condition when the placenta covers part or all of the cervix during the last months of pregnancy.
plagiocephalyThe condition characterized an irregular shape of the head often in parallelogram shape with a flat spot on the back or one side of the head.
plagueAn infectious disease transmitted by the bite of a flea from a rodent infected with the bacillus Yersinia pestis.
-plakiapatches
plan/oflat, plan, level
plani-flat, level
plantarBottom of the foot
plantar fasciitisIrritation of the connective tissue that runs from the heel to the base of the toes. Also known as :postman's heel".
plaqueFatty deposits formed on the walls of arteries.
-plasmformation
plasmaThe part of blood which is not blood cells. Blood plasma also contains glucose and other dissolved nutrients. It also helps blood clot.
plasmacytomaAny discrete, presumably solitary, mass of neoplastic plasma cells either in bone marrow or various extramedullary sites.
plasmapheresisProcedure whereby plasma is separated and extracted and the red cells returned to the donor.
plasmo-plasma
plast/oformation
-plastysurgical repair
plateletsPart of blood that help stop bleeding by clumping and clotting blood vessel injuries.
platy-broad, flat
platybasiaA malformation of the cranium so that the floor of the posterior cranial fossa bulges upward in the region about the foramen magnum.
pledgetA small compress used to medicate, protect, or absorb drainage from a wound
-plegiaparalysis
pleocytosisA presence of an abnormally high number of cells in the cerebrospinal fluid.
pless/istriking, percussion
pleur/opleura, rib
pleuraThe membrane enveloping the lungs consisting of two layers. The visceral pleura is attached directly to the lungs. The outer parietal pleura lines the thoracic cavity and diaphragm. Between the two layers is the pleural cavity, containing a lubricating liquid film.
pleural effusionExcessive fluid in the pleural cavity which may cause breathlessness.
pleural friction rubSound created by the rubbing of when the chest wall moves. Stops when patient holds her breath. Often heard with pleurisy. Thick inflamed surfaces sliding by one another.
pleurisyInflammation of the pleura, the membranes covering the lungs.
pleurodyniaInflamed lung membranes causing pain during inhalation.
plexusA network of nerves or blood vessels.
plic/ofold
PLTplatelet
pluri-several, more
PMafternoon, evening
PMHpast medical history
PMNpolymorphonuclear (neutrophil leukocyte)
PMSpremenstrual syndrome
PNDparoxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
-pneabreathing
pneo-air, breath, breathing
pneum/olung, air
pneumocephalusPresence of air or gas within the intracranial cavity usually the result of a fracture.
pneumoconiosisOccupational lung disease caused by prolonged inhalation of dust. Common lung disease in mining.
pneumocyteAny of the epithelial cells lining the alveoli of the lung.
pneumon/olung
pneumonectomySurgical removal of part or all of a lung.
pneumoniaInflammation of the lungs with alveoli filling with pus. Typically caused by infection and can follow flu, colds and other illnesses.
pneumonitisInflammation of lung tissue.
pneumoperitoneumPresence of air or gas in the peritoneal cavity.
pneumorrhachisPresence of air or gas within the spinal canal cavity.
pneumothoraxPartial or fully collapsed lung. An accumulation of air in the pleural cavity. Caused by trauma, such as a gun shot or stab wound and can also occur spontaneously.
PNHparoxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
PNIperipheral nerve injury
PNSperipheral nervous system
POorally
-podfoot
pod/ofoot
podiatryA medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of foot disorders and injuries.
-poiesisproduction, formation
poikil-irregular, varied
poisonA substance capable of damaging the structure or function of the body.
polio-gray
poliomyelitisA highly infectious viral disease that involves the gray matter of the spinal cord, leading to paralysis, muscular atrophy, and deformity.
poly-many
polyarthritisSimultaneous inflammation of several joints.
polychondritisInflammation of cartilage.
polycystic kidney diseaseAn inherited disease in which cysts develop within the kidneys.
polycystic ovary syndromeA condition in which a woman’s levels of the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone are out of balance. Often cause for infertility
polycythemiaAbnormal increase in the aggregate red cell mass of the blood.
polydactylyA congenital anomaly of the hand or foot, characterized by supernumerary digits.
polydipsiaExcessive thirst.
polymorphismOccurring in several different forms.
polymyositisInflammation of the muscles or associated tissues, such as the blood vessels that supply the muscles
polyneuropathyA disease of multiple peripheral nerves simultaneously.
polypAbnormal tissue mass that protrudes into the lumen of the digestive or respiratory tracts.
polyphagiaExcessive hunger or appetite.
polypsDiscrete abnormal tissue masses that protrude into the lumen of the digestive tract or the respiratory tract.
polysomnographySleep study. Includes monitoring of respiratory patterns, brain waves, sleep stages, and other physiological variables.
polyuriaExcessive production of urine.
pono-fatigue, exhaustion, overwork
ponsThe front part of the hindbrain that lies between the medulla and the midbrain ventral to the cerebellum, serving as a relay station for neural pathways.
poplitealPertaining to the area behind the knee.
por/opassage, opening, duct
porokeratosisA rare, chronic, progressive autosomal dominant skin disorder market by craterlike patches.
poroma A neoplasm of cells lining the skin openings of sweat glands.
-porosisdecrease in density
portal veinA vein that conducts blood from the digestive organs, spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder to the liver.
-posiadrinking, fluid intake
possetA small amount of milk that is regurgitated by infants after feeding.
post-after, behind, back
post-traumatic stress disorderA disorder that develops in people who have experienced a terrifying event.
post.posterior
posteriorback
postmenopauseThe physiological period following the menopause.
postpartumThe period that is shortly after giving birth.
postprandialAfter a meal.
postureThe position of the body.
ppmparts per million
PRthrough the rectum
-prandialmeal
-praxiato perform, action
PRBCpacked red blood cells
pre-before, in front of
prebioticsIndigestible food ingredients that promote overall health by supporting the activity of probiotic bacteria in the large intestine.
precordiumThe region of the thorax immediately over the heart.
prediabetesA condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal. Considered a warning sign for diabetes.
prediabeticThe time period before the development of symptomatic diabetes mellitus.
preeclampsiaA serious pregnancy disorder characterized by high blood pressure, a large amount of protein in the urine and edema of hands and feet.
pregnancyCarrying developing offspring (embryos or fetuses) in utero before birth.
preleukemiaConditions in which the abnormalities in the peripheral blood or bone marrow represent the early manifestations of acute leukemia, but in which the changes are not of sufficient magnitude or specificity to permit a diagnosis of acute leukemia by the usual clinical criteria.
premature ejaculationThe emission of semen and seminal fluid during the act of preparation for sexual intercourse, i.e. before there is penetration, or shortly after penetration.
premedicationPreliminary administration of a drug preceding a diagnostic, therapeutic, or surgical procedure.
premenopauseThe period before menopause. The transition from full sexual maturity to cessation of ovarian cycle takes place between the age of late thirty and early fifty.
preneoplasticPreceding the formation of a tumor.
prepuceThe fold of skin that grows over the end of the penis.
presby/oold age
presbycusisHearing loss that gradually occurs in most individuals as they grow older.
presbyopiaAn age-related condition when the eye's lens doesn't change shape as easily as it once did
pressure ulcerAn ulcer that appears in the skin over a bony prominence due to compression and inadequate blood perfusion. Bedridden or chair bound patients are at risk. Also called bedsore.
prevalenceA measure of morbidity based on currents levels of a disease in a population.
priapismA abnormally prolonged erection of the penis.
primi-first
primigravidaA woman who is pregnant for the first time.
primiparaA woman who has given birth to one viable infant.
prionA small infectious protein particle causing neurodegenerative diseases including Creutzfeldt-Jakob syndrome.
PRLprolactin
pro-before, in front of
probabilityThe likelihood that an event will occur.
proct/oanus and rectum
proctocolitisInflammation of the rectum and the colon.
proctoscopeEndoscope for examination of the rectum and anus.
prodromeAn early symptom that precedes the onset of disease.
profundaBlood vessels situated deep in the body tissues they supply.
progeriaAn abnormal congenital condition of premature aging.
progesteroneA sex hormone produced by the ovaries.
prognosisA prediction of a outcome of a disease.
projectionA defense mechanism, operating unconsciously, whereby that which is emotionally unacceptable in the self is rejected and attributed (projected) to others. Also called the blaming mechanism.
prokaryoteA unicellular organism lacking a true nucleus and nuclear membrane, having genetic material consisting of a single molecule of double-stranded DNA.
prolactinA pituitary hormone that stimulates and maintains lactation in postpartum mammals.
prolactinomaA begin tumor of the pituitary gland overproduces a hormone called prolactin.
prolapseThe protrusion or sinking down of an organ or part of an organ.
promontoryA projecting part.
pronationThe inward roll of the foot (medial malleolus) while walking or running.
proneLying on the abdomen
prone positionThe posture of an individual lying face down.
proptosisProtrusion or bulging of the eye.
pros/oforward, anterior
prosop/oface
prospective studyA forward looking study of a group over a long period.
prostat/oprostate
prostateA gland that is part of a male reproductive system. Located below the bladder.
prostatic neoplasmsTumors or cancer of the prostate.
prostatismLower urinary tract symptom, such as slow urinary stream, associated with prostatic hyperplasia in older men.
prostatitisInflammation of the prostate gland.
prosthesisA device that replaces a missing body part or makes a part of the body work better.
prote/oprotein
proteinA large molecule consisting of a long chain or sequence of amino acids that is an essential constituent of the body.
proteinuriaThe presence of proteins in the urine, an indicator of kidney diseases.
proteolysisThe decomposition of proteins into peptides and amino acids by enzymes in the digestive tract.
proto-first
protoplasmThe living contents of a cell
protozoaAn animal subkingdom, comprised of primitive, single-celled, microscopic animals able to move by amoeboid action or by means of cilia or flagella. Many protozoa are parasitic on humans.
prox.proximal
proxim/onearest
proximalNearest to the point of attachment to the trunk
proxyA person authorized to decide or act for another person, for example, a person having durable power of attorney.
prurigoA chronic inflammation of the skin characterized by a persistent eruption of papules that itch intensely.
pruritusItch.
pruritus vulvaeItching of the vulva.
psamm/osand
pseud-false
pseudarthrosisA new, false, fibrous joint arising at the site of an ununited fracture.
pseudo-false
pseudophakiaPresence of an intraocular lens after cataract extraction.
psipounds per square inch
psor/oitching
psoriasisA skin disease that causes itchy patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales on the scalp and flexor joint surfaces.
psoriatic arthritisArthritis associated with psoriasis, affecting joints and the spine.
PSVpressure supported ventilation
PSVTparoxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
psych/omind
psychiatryThe medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of mental disorders.
psychologyThe science dealing with the study of mental processes and behavior in man and animals.
psychosisA condition characterized by a loss of contact with reality.
psychotherapyA general term for the treatment of mental illness or emotional disturbances.
PTphysical therapy
PTCApercutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty
-pterygiumabnormality of conjunctiva
PTHparathyroid hormone
ptosisDrooping of the upper eyelid.
-ptosisdrooping, prolapse
PTSDpost traumatic stress disorder
PTTpartial thromboplastin time
PTXpneumothorax
ptyal/osaliva
-ptysisspitting
pub/opubic, pubes
pubertyBecoming first capable of reproducing sexually.
pubic boneA bone that forms the lower and anterior part of each side of the hip bone.
pubic symphysisA slightly movable cartilaginous joint which occurs between the pubic bones.
PUDpeptic ulcer disease
pudendal nerveA nerve which originates in the sacral spinal cord (S2 to S4) and innervates the perineum, the external genitalia, the external anal sphincter and the external urethral sphincter. Can be damaged in childbirth.
puerperalThe period up until six to eight weeks after childbirth.
pulm/olung
pulmon/olung
pulmonaryPertaining to the lungs.
pulmonary arteryThe short wide vessel that moves blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.
pulmonary circulationThe circulation of the blood to and through the lungs
pulmonary edemaExcessive accumulation of fluid in the lung. Can be life-threatening. Often associated with heart failure.
pulmonary embolismA clot blocking of the pulmonary artery or one of its branches.
pulmonary fibrosisProgressive formation of fibrotic (scar) tissue in the lungs. Patients show increasing dyspnea.
pulmonary function testA battery of tests that evaluate the volume and flow rate of air in and out of the lungs.
pulmonary infarctionnecrosis of lung tissue that is cause by the lack of oxygen or blood supply. The most common cause of pulmonary infarction is a blood clot in the lung.
pulmonary valveThe heart valve at the intersection of the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery.
pulmonary valve regurgitationBack flow of blood from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricular due to a leaky pulmonary valve.
pulmonary valve stenosisThe pathologic narrowing of the pulmonary valve opening. Limits blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.
pulmonary veinsThe veins that return the oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart.
pulmonologistAn internal medicine specialist concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and defects of the lungs and bronchial tree.
pulpA soft mass of tissue.
puls/obeating, to beat
pulseThe rhythmical expansion and contraction of an artery, caused by blood pumping from the heart.
pulse oximeterDevice that measures oxygen saturation in the blood.
-punctureto pierce a surface
pupilThe aperture in the iris through which light passes.
pupill/opupil
purkinje fibersCardiac muscle fibers that conduct the cardiac impulse from the atrioventricular node to the ventricles causing them to contract.
purpur/opurple
purpuraBlood spots on the skin that are purple-colored, between 4-10 mm resembling bruising.
purul/opus formation
purulentPertaining to pus.
PUVApsoralen ultraviolet A
PVCpremature ventricular contraction
py/opus
pyarthrosisAcute inflammation of synovial membranes.
pyel/orenal pelvis
pyelectasisDilation of the pelvis of the kidney.
pyelitisInflammation of the renal pelvis.
pyelocystitisInflammation of the kidney pelvis and the urinary bladder.
pyelonephritisInflammation of the kidney involving the renal parenchyma (the nephrons), kidney pelvis and kidney calices. It is characterized by abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting and occasionally diarrhea.
pyg/obuttocks
pykn/othick, dense, compact
pyl/eportal vein
pylethrombosisThrombosis of the portal vein.
pylor/opylorus (opening between the stomach and duodenum)
pylorusThe region of the stomach at the junction with the duodenum.
pyodermaAny purulent skin disease.
pyogenicProducing pus.
pyometraAccumulation of pus in the uterine cavity.
pyomyositisAn acute, intramuscular suppuration of the large skeletal muscle groups.
pyonephrosisDistention of kidney with the presence of pus and destruction of the renal parenchyma. It is often associated with renal obstruction and can lead to total or nearly total loss of renal function.
pyr/ofire, fever
pyret/ofever
pyrex/ofever
pyrosisSubsternal pain or burning sensation, usually associated with regurgitation of gastric juice into the esophagus. Also called heartburn.
pyuriaWhite blood cells or pus cells in the urine.

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