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Medical Dictionary: c

WordDefinition
CCalorie (kilocalorie)
C&Sculture and sensitivity
CAcancer
ca.about; approximately
CABGcoronary artery bypass graft
cachexiaGeneral ill health, malnutrition, and weight loss, usually associated with chronic disease.
cacophonyA harsh, discordant sound or mixture of sounds.
CADcoronary artery disease
caffeineAn alkaloid drug, found in coffee and tea that simulates the central nervous system increasing alertness. It is also a diuretic.
CAHchronic active hepatitis
Callarge calorie
calamineA lotion or ointment used as mild astringent on the skin.
calc/icalcium
calc/ocalcium
calcane/oheel
calcaneusThe largest of the tarsal bones, situated at the lower and back part of the foot, forming the heel.
calcificationProcess by which organic tissue becomes hardened by the physiologic deposit of calcium salts.
calcinosisThe abnormal deposition of calcium salts in tissues.
calcitoninA hormone secreted by the thyroid gland. It helps regulate calcium levels.
calciumCombines with phosphorus to form calcium phosphate in the bones and teeth. It is essential for the normal functioning of nerves and muscles and plays a role in blood coagulation (as factor IV) and in many enzymatic processes.
calcium channel blockersA class of drugs that inhibit calcium influx through cellular membranes. Used to reduce cardiac workload to treat hypertension or angina.
calcul/ostone
cali/ocalyx
calibrationDetermination, by measurement or comparison with a standard, of the correct value of each scale reading on a meter or other measuring instrument.
calipersA measuring instrument consisting of two hinged legs. Used to measure thickness and diameters. Also used to determine time intervals for several EKG features.
calor/iheat
calorimetryThe measurement of the quantity of heat involved in various processes or in the determination of the heat capacities of substances.
camphorA crystalline substance used in topical pain relievers.
canalA tubular passage.
cancerGeneral term for malignant neoplasms, sarcoma, carcinoma, leukemia and lymphoma.
candidiasisAn infection of moist skin areas caused by yeast. Often due to a weakened immune system or heavy antibiotic use.
cannabisA drug, also known as marijuana, used to reduce nausea during chemotherapy, to alleviate chronic pain, to improve appetite in HIV/AIDS patients and to treat glaucoma.
cannibalismEating individuals of one's own species.
cannulaA flexible tube inserted into a duct or cavity to drain fluid or to deliver medication.
capcapsule
capillariesThe minute blood vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cells. They connect the arterioles and venules.
capillary actionA force causing fluids to rise up very fine tubes. This action is due to molecular adhesion of the liquid to the tube.
capillary fragilityThe susceptibility of capillaries, under conditions of increased stress, to rupture. Seen as bleeding under the skin.
capillary hemangiomaA common benign tumors of infancy caused by an abnormal buildup of blood vessels under the skin. Also called a 'strawberry mark'.
capit/ohead
capn/ocarbon dioxide
-capniacarbon dioxide
capnographyContinuous recording of the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled air.
caps-capsule
capsidThe outer protein protective shell of a virus.
capsule endoscopesA pill sized video camera encased in a capsule, designed to be swallowed and subsequently traverse the gastrointestinal tract while transmitting diagnostic images.
capsulitisInflammation of the capsule surrounding a joint.
carb/ocarbon
carbohydratesThe largest class of organic compounds, including starch, glycogen, cellulose, polysaccharides, and simple monosaccharides. They constitute a main source of energy for body functions.
carbon dioxideA colorless, odorless gas formed in body tissues during metabolism. It is carried in the blood to the lungs and then exhaled.
carbon monoxideA colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is very poisonous.
carbon tetrachlorideA solvent used in dry cleaning and manufacturing. Poisoning by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption is possible and may be fatal.
carboplatinAn platinum-containing compound used to treat advanced forms of lung and ovarian cancers.
carbuncleA skin infection that often involves a group of hair follicles. The infected material forms a lump, which occurs deep in the skin and may contain pus.
carcin/ocancerous
carcinogenSubstances that increase the risk of neoplasms in humans or animals.
carcinogenesisThe development of a normal cell into an invasive cancer cell. It generally requires multiple steps, which may occur quickly or over a period of many years.
carcinomaCancer that originates in skin cells or tissue lining organs.
carcinoma in situA premalignant neoplasm confined to the epithelium of origin, without invasion of the basement membrane.
carcinomatosisCarcinoma that has spread throughout the body.
carcinosarcomaA malignant neoplasm that contains elements of carcinoma and sarcoma.
cardi/oheart
cardiaThat part of the stomach close to the opening from esophagus into the stomach. The cardia is so named because of its closeness to the heart.
-cardiacondition of the heart
cardiacOf or pertaining to the heart.
cardiac catheterizationA diagnostic procedure for creating an angiogram using a contrast agent. Also used for treating blocked arteries.
cardiac tamponadeA dangerous compression of the heart by accumulated fluid (pericardial effusion) or blood in the pericardium surrounding the heart.
cardiologyThe study of the heart, its physiology, and its functions.
cardiomegalyAn enlargement of the heart. Multiple causes.
cardiomyopathyDisease of the heart muscle. Can be congenital, or acquired from infections, alcoholism, thyroid disease, toxic drugs.
cardiopulmonary resuscitationAn emergency procedure for life support consisting of manual, external heart massage and artificial respiration.
cardiotoxinAn agent that has damaging effect on the heart.
cardiovascular diseaseA pathological condition involving the cardiovascular system including the heart, the blood vessels or the pericardium.
cardiovascular systemThe heart and the blood vessels by which blood is pumped and circulated through the body.
carditisInflammation of the heart. Three types are pericarditis (pericardium), myocarditis (heart muscle) and endocarditis (endocardium).
caroteneA red or yellow organic compound found in sweet potatoes, egg yolk, carrots, spinach, broccoli and other leafy vegetables.
carotid arteriesThe two major arteries of the neck that supply blood to the head; each artery has two branches, internal and external.
carotid bruitA murmur auscultated over the carotid artery on the neck. It can indicate arterial narrowing and an increased risk of stroke.
carotid stenosisNarrowing of any part of the carotid arteries, most often due to atherosclerotic plaque formation.
carotid ultrasonographyA diagnostic imaging technique to reveal structural details of the carotid arteries.
carp/owrist
carpalRelating to the wrist.
carpal bonesThe eight bones of the wrist: scaphoid bone; lunate bone; triquetrum bone; pisiform bone; trapezium bone; trapezoid bone; capitate bone; and hamate bone.
carpal tunnel syndromeA common source of hand numbness and pain. Can be associated with repetitive occupational trauma, wrist injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, and pregnancy.
carrierA person who carries a microorganism without manifesting signs or symptoms of infection and who can readily transmit the disease to another host.
cartilageA non-vascular form of connective tissue composed of chondrocytes embedded in a matrix. There are three major types: hyaline cartilage; fibrocartilage; and elastic cartilage.
caseationThe breakdown of diseased tissue into a cheese-like substance. Typical of tuberculosis.
caseinA nutritive milk protein containing all of the common amino acids and rich in the essential ones.
castrationRemoval of the sex glands.
castsDressings made of fiberglass, plastic, or bandage impregnated with plaster of Paris used for immobilization of various parts of the body in cases of fractures, dislocations, and infected wounds.
CATcomputerized axial tomography
cat-scratch feverA bacterial infection that usually arises one or more weeks following a feline scratch. Raised inflammatory nodules can be seen at the site of the scratch.
cata-down
catabolic illnessA disease marked by weight loss and diminished muscle mass.
catalystA substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed or permanently altered by the reaction.
cataractA clouding of the eye's lens.
catastrophic illnessAn acute or prolonged illness usually considered to be life-threatening or with the threat of serious residual disability. Treatment may be radical and is frequently costly.
catatoniaA neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by the patient becoming mute or immobile with extreme muscular rigidity.
catgutSterile collagen strands obtained from healthy mammals. Formerly used as absorbable surgical ligatures.
cathar/ocleansing, purging
catharsisA purging or cleansing. Release of emotions.
catheterA hollow, flexible tube that is inserted into narrow body openings so that fluids can be drained or inserted. Also used as to visualize or image a vessel or cavity.
catheterizationUse of a flexible, hollow tube into a duct, blood vessel, hollow organ, or body cavity for injecting or withdrawing fluids for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
cationA positively charged ion.
caud/otail
cauda equinaThe lower part of the spinal cord consisting of the lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal nerve roots.
caulAmniotic sac that encloses the fetus.
caus/oburn, burning
causalgiaA complex regional pain syndrome characterized by burning pain and marked sensitivity to touch in the distribution of an injured peripheral nerve.
causalityThe relating of causes to the effects they produce. This influence must be predictable and reproducible.
causticA substance that destroys living tissue.
cauter/iburn
cav/ocavity, hollow
cavityA hollow enclosed area.
cavogramAn angiogram of the vena cava, inferior or superior.
cavumAny hollow, enclose area.
CBCcomplete blood count
CBTcognitive behavioral therapy
CCchief complaint
CCUcoronary care unit; critical care unit
CDCCenters for Disease Control and Prevention
cec/ocecum, first section of colon
cecumThe outpouching area of the large intestine that is below the entrance of the small intestine. It has a worm-like extension, the vermiform appendix.
cefaclorSemisynthetic, broad-spectrum antibiotic derivative of cephalexin.
-celeswelling, hernia
celi/oabdomen
celiacPertaining to the abdominal cavity.
celiac arteryThe arterial trunk that arises from the abdominal aorta and after a short course divides into the left gastric, common hepatic and splenic arteries.
celiac diseaseA disease whose symptoms are precipitated by foods containing gluten, characterized by inflammation of the small intestine. An autoimmune disease.
cellThe fundamental unit of all living tissue. They consist of a nucleus, cytoplasm and various organelles enclosed by a plasma membrane.
cellul/ocell
cellulitisA common skin infection caused by bacteria. It affects the middle layer of the skin (dermis) and the tissues below. S
celluloseThe chief constituent of plant fiber. Indigestible roughage.
cementFast setting material used to fix prostheses in place.
cementumBonelike tissue covering the roots of teeth.
censusAn enumeration of a population.
centerThe middle point of a geometric entity.
centesisA puncture of a cavity.
centi-hundred
centigradeA thermometric scale.
centigramA mass of one hundredth of a gram. Ten milligrams.
centiliterA volume of one hundredth of a liter. Ten milliliters.
centimeterA length of one hundredth of a meter. Ten millimeters.
centipoiseA measure of viscosity of a liquid. One hundredth of a poise.
centr/ocenter
central lineIV line inserted for continuous access to a central vein.
central nervous systemThe main information-processing organs of the nervous system, consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and meninges.
centrifugalA force directed outward from a center or axis.
centrosomeOrganelles responsible for the organization and nucleation of microtubules. Found in animals and some plants.
cephal/ohead
cephaladTowards the head.
cephalicCranial. Relating to the head.
cerc-tail
cercariaThe free-swimming larval forms of parasites found in an intermediate host.
cerclageBinding together the ends of an oblique bone fracture or the chips of a broken patella.
cerebell/ocerebellum (posterior section of brain)
cerebellumThe part of brain located behind the brainstem in the posterior base of skull (posterior cranial fossa). It coordinates voluntary muscle activity, balance and tone.
cerebr/ocerebrum
cerebral contusionA bruise of the brain tissue . Frequently caused by a blow to the head.
cerebral edemaAn abnormal accumulation of fluid in brain tissue. Brain swelling.
cerebral hemorrhageBleeding into one or both cerebral hemispheres.
cerebral palsyA chronic childhood disorder that affects muscle tone, movement, and motor skills.
cerebrospinal fluidA watery fluid that is continuously produced in the choroid plexus and circulates around the surface of the brain, the spinal cord and in the cerebral ventricles.
cerebrovascular accidentA stroke. It is caused by the interruption of the brain’s blood supply, usually because a blood vessel bursts or is blocked by a clot, or a space-occupying lesion such as a tumor.
cerebrovascular disordersOne of several pathological conditions of impaired blood flow in the brain.
cerebrumThe largest, uppermost part of the brain. Responsible for initiating and coordinating all voluntary body activity. The cerebral cortex is responsible for intellectual activities.
cerumenThe yellow or brown waxy secretions produced by sweat glands in the external ear canal. Earwax.
cerumin/oearwax
cervic/oneck, cervix
cervicalPertaining to the neck.
cervical cancerA neoplasm of the cervix of the uterus.
cervical dysplasiaThe abnormal growth of precancerous cells on the surface of the cervix.
cervical radiculopathyA pinched nerve. It occurs when a nerve in the neck is irritated as it leaves the spinal canal.
cervicitisAn inflammation of the cervix
cervix uteriThe neck portion of the uterus between the lower isthmus and the vagina forming the cervical canal.
cesarean sectionA surgical incision through the abdominal wall and uterus, performed to deliver a fetus.
CFcystic fibrosis
chafingIrritation of the skin due to rubbing against skin or clothing.
chalazionA small bump on the eyelid that forms due to blockage and swelling of an oil gland at the base of the eyelash.
chancreThe primary sore of syphilis. A painless ulcer occurring at the site of entry of the infection.
chancroidAcute, highly contagious bacterial disease usually acquired through sexual contact. A venereal ulcer.
chappedRelating to a dry, cracked, reddish skin condition, usually of the hands, caused by excessive moisture evaporation or cold.
characterRoughly equivalent to personality. The sum of the relatively fixed personality traits and habits.
charlatanA medical fraud. A quack.
chartsA patient record including data in tables and graphs.
CHBcomplete heart block
CHDcongenital heart disease; coronary heart disease
cheil/olips
cheilitisInflammation of the lips.
cheir-hand
cheiralgiaPain in the hands.
chem-chemistry
chem/ochemical
chemotaxisThe movement of cells or organisms in response to chemicals.
chemotherapyTreatment of cancer and other diseases by means of chemical agents.
chestThe part of the body between the neck and the abdomen. Thorax.
cheyne-stokes respirationAn abnormal pattern of breathing characterized by apnea followed by increasingly deep, rapid breathing.
CHFcongestive heart failure
chiggerA blood sucking stage of mites.
childA person between the stages of birth and puberty.
chillsThe sudden sensation of being cold.
chimeraAn individual that contains cell populations derived from different zygotes.
chinThe prominence formed by the anterior projection of the mandible and the soft tissue covering it.
chir/ohand
chlamydiaA common sexually transmitted disease.
chloasmaA condition in which brown patches appear on the face. Can be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy or from sun exposure.
chlor/ogreen
chlorineA greenish-yellow gas with a strong odor. Used in many solvents and cleaning agents. Poisonous if inhaled or ingested.
chloroformA commonly used laboratory solvent. It was previously used as an anesthetic, but was banned from use in the U.S. due to its toxicity and safety margins.
choan-funnel
choanalA funnel-shaped opening.
chokingA condition of the respiratory airways being blocked by an obstruction or constriction of the neck or swelling of the larynx.
chol/ebile, gall
cholangi/obile vessel
cholangitisInflammation of the bile ducts due to bacterial infection or blockage.
cholecyst/ogallbladder
cholecystitisInflammation of the gallbladder.
choledoch/ocommon bile duct
cholelithiasisPresence or formation of gallstones in the gallbladder.
choleraAn acute diarrheal disease endemic in India and Southeast Asia.
cholestasisImpairment of bile flow.
cholesterolThe principal sterol of the body. Contributes to cell structure and digestive bile. Helps produce vitamin D and some hormones.
chondr/icartilage
chondr/ocartilage
chondralPertaining to cartilage.
chondrocytePolymorphic cells that form cartilage.
chondrogenesisThe development of cartilage.
chondromaA benign tumor derived from mesodermal cells that form cartilage
ChondromalaciaAbnormal softening or degeneration of cartilage. A common runner's injury in the knees.
chondrosarcomaA slowly growing malignant neoplasm of cartilage cells, occurring most frequently in pelvic bones, scapula or in long bones.
chordomaA rare, malignant tumor that develops from the embryonic remains of the notochord.
choreaA condition marked by involuntary, purposeless, rapid, jerky movements.
chori/ochorion (outer fetal sac)
chorionThe embryonic membrane surrounding the developing embryo. The chorion evolves into the fetal contribution of the placenta.
chorionic villus samplingA prenatal diagnostic test to detect chromosomal problems
choroidThe thin, highly vascular layer between the retina and sclera.
choroiditisInflammation of the choroid layer of the eye.
-chroiaskin coloration
chrom/ocolor
chromatographyTechniques used for separating and analyzing a chemical mixture.
chron/otime
chronicProlonged. Long-term.
chronic fatigue syndromeA debilitating disorder characterized by extreme fatigue or tiredness that doesn't go away with rest.
chronic obstructive pulmonary diseaseRespiratory diseases which affect bronchial air movement, causing breathing problems. Includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
chrys/ogold
chyl-juice
chyleThe opaque, milky-white fluid consisting mainly of emulsified fats that passes through the lacteals of the small intestines into the lymphatic system.
chylothoraxAn accumulation of chyle in the pleural space.
chym/ojuice, to pour
cicatrixA scar left after the healing of a wound.
-cidekilling, agent that kills
cili-eyelid, eyelash
cilia Thick protuberances from epithelial cells.
cine-movement
circaApproximately.
circadianRelating to biologic rhythms with a cycle time of about 24 hours.
circle of willisA vascular network at the base of the brain.
circulationThe circuit of blood through the network of arteries and veins.
circum-around
circumcisionSurgical removal of the foreskin of the penis.
circumductionA conical movement of a limb extending from the joint.
cirrh/oorange-yellow
cirrhosisA chronic, progressive liver disease in which liver cells are replaced by scar tissue.
cis-on the same side, on the near side
Clchlorine
-clasisbreaking a bone
-clastbreak
claudicationLimping
claustr/oclosed space
claustrophobiaThe irrational fear of confined spaces.
clavicleThe collar bone.
clavicul/oclavicle
cleft lipCongenital defect in the upper lip where the maxillary prominence fails to merge with the nasal prominences.
cleft palateCongenital fissure of the median line of the palate.
cleid/oclavicle
clin/obend, slope
clitorisAn erectile structure homologous with the penis, situated beneath the anterior labial commissure, partially hidden between the anterior ends of the labia minora.
CLLchronic lymphocytic leukemia
clotA soft, insoluble mass formed by blood or lymph.
clubfootA congenital deformed foot in which the patient cannot stand with sole flat on the ground.
cmcentimeter
CMEcontinuing medical education
CMLchronic myelogenous leukemia
CMVcytomegalovirus
CNScentral nervous system
COcarbon monoxide
co-together, jointly
CO2carbon dioxide
CoAg.coarctation of the aorta
coagul/ocoagulation, clotting
coagulateTo change a liquid into a gel or solid.
coarse crackleAn abnormal breath sound that is discontinuous, brief and popping.
COBRAConsolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act
coccyg/ococcyx (tailbone)
cochle/ocochlea (inner part of ear)
cochleaThe part of the inner ear (labyrinth) that is concerned with hearing.
cochlear implantAn electronic device that provides a sense of sound to deaf or severely hard of hearing people.
coercionThe use of force or intimidation to obtain compliance.
cognitionThinking.
coinfectionSimultaneous infection of a host organism by two or more pathogens.
coitusSexual intercourse.
col/ocolon
coldA contagious viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Transmitted by coughing and sneezing.
colitisInflammation of the colon.
collagenA fibrous protein comprising about one third of the total protein in the body. It is a main constituent of skin, bone, ligaments and cartilage.
colonThe main segment of large intestine.
colon/ocolon
colonoscopyEndoscopic examination, therapy or surgery of the luminal surface of the colon.
color blindnessA weakness or inability to distinguish colors. A common form is the inability to distinguish red from green.
colorectal cancerA malignant neoplasm of the large intestine.
colostomyThe surgical construction of an opening between the colon and the surface of the body.
colostrumMilk produced in late pregnancy. High in protein and antibody content.
colp-vagina
colp/ovagina
colposcopyThe examination of the cervix and vagina by means of an endoscope introduced vaginally.
colpotomyAn incision in the vagina.
com-jointly, together
comaA deep state of unconsciousness. No voluntary motor signs.
-comaprofound unconsciousness
comatosePertaining to a state of coma.
comedoA blackhead.
communicableAble to be transmitted, particularly a disease.
complexionThe color, texture and overall appearance of facial skin.
complicationA disease or condition arising during the treatment of another disease.
compoundA pharmaceutical preparation composed of two or more ingredients.
comprehensionUnderstanding.
compressA pad of soft material used to apply cold, heat, medication or to control bleeding.
computational biologyA field of biology concerned with the collection and manipulation of biological data, and the use of such data to make biological discoveries or predictions.
con-with, together
concave Hollowed or depressed surface.
conceptionWhen a spermatozoon enters an ovum. The beginning of pregnancy.
concierge medicineAn arrangement in which a patient pays an annual fee to a physician in exchange for services over and beyond normal insurance-reimbursed services.
concoctionA mixture of two or more medicinal substances.
concuss/oshaken together
concussionA traumatic brain injury. Measure severity by universal Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)
conditionThe state of being.
conditioningLearning that takes place when a conditioned stimulus is paired with an unconditioned stimulus.
condomA sheath that is worn over the penis during sex in order to prevent pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted disease.
conductionThe transmission of electricity, heat, sound or other energy.
conduitA channel.
condyl/oknob
confinementBeing restrained to a particular place.
confusionA mental state characterized by bewilderment, disorientation and emotional disturbance.
congenital heart defectAn abnormality that is present at birth and can affect the structure and function of an infant's heart.
congestionPresence of abnormal amounts of fluids in an organ or vessel.
congestive heart failureThe heart isn't able to pump sufficient blood. Typical causes are coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.
coni/odust
conjugatePaired or joined.
conjunctiv/omucous membrane that lines the inner surface of eyelids
conjunctivaThe mucous membrane that covers the posterior surface of the eyelids and the anterior pericorneal surface of the eyeball.
conjunctivitisAn inflammation of the clear tissue that lines the white part of the eye. Also called pink eye.
Conn syndromeAssociated with increased secretion of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal glands.
consanguinityKinship. The hereditary relationship between persons.
consci/oaware
conscienceAwareness. In a moral sense, self-critical of what is right or wrong.
consciousnessSense of awareness of self and of the environment.
consensualGiving permission or agreement.
consent formsDocuments describing a medical treatment or research project, including proposed procedures, risks, and alternatives, that are to be signed by an individual, or the individual's proxy, to indicate his/her understanding of the document and a willingness to undergo the treatment or to participate in the research.
consolidationThe state of the lung when alveoli are filled with fluid, as in pneumonia.
constipationInfrequent or difficult evacuation of feces.
constitutionThe overall health of a person, both mental and physical.
constrict/onarrowing, drawing together
constrictionThe abnormal narrowing of a channel or opening.
contagiousA transmissible or communicable disease or a person with such a disease.
contra-against, opposite
contraceptionPrevention of impregnation.
contractionA shortening or increase in tension. In labor, the rhythmic tightening of the uterus.
contractureA condition that occurs when normally elastic tissues are replaced by inelastic fiber-like tissue.
contraindicationA factor in a patient's condition that prohibits a specific treatment.
control groupsGroups that serve as a standard for comparison in experimental studies.
controlled substancesDrugs or chemical agents regulated by government. This may include narcotics and prescription medications.
contus/oto bruise
contusionInjury caused by a blow to the body but that does not break the skin. A bruise. Characterized by swelling, pain and discoloration.
convalescenceThe period of recovery following an illness.
convectionTransmission of energy in a liquid or gas involving circulation of particles.
convexHaving a surface that curves outward.
convulsionA violent spasm of voluntary muscles. A type of seizure.
cool downGradually decreasing heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and body temperature after exercise.
COPDchronic obstructive pulmonary disease
copingThe process of dealing with to problems in life in a way to work through them.
copr-feces
copulationSexual union.
cor/opupil
cornA hardened mass of epithelial cells usually found on the sole of the feet.
corne/ocornea
corneaThe transparent, convex, anterior part of eye. It is the main refractory structure of the eye.
corneal edemaAn excessive amount of fluid in the cornea due to damage of the epithelium or endothelium causing decreased visual acuity.
coron/oencircle, crown
coronary arterySupplies blood to the heart muscles from the aorta.
coronary artery bypassSurgical procedure which uses a healthy blood vessel segment, such as a vein, to bypass a blocked section of a coronary artery.
coronary artery diseaseReduced blood flow through the coronary arteries, resulting in chest pain and heart damage.
coronary occlusionObstruction of blood flow through one of the coronary arteries.
coronary thrombosisCoagulation of blood in the coronary arteries. Can lead to myocardial infarction.
coronerA public official who investigates cases of unnatural death.
corpor/obody
corpseA dead body. Cadaver.
corpulenceObesity.
corpuscle1) A blood cell. 2) Any small mass.
correlationA statistical relationship between variables.
corrosionThe gradual destruction of a substance or tissue, particularly by a chemical action.
cortexThe outer layer of an organ or other structure.
cortic/ocortex, outer section
cortisolThe primary stress hormone.
cost/orib
costalPertaining to the ribs.
costochondritisA benign inflammation of one or more of the costal cartilages. Usually caused by overuse of chest wall muscles.
coughA sudden, audible exhalation of air from the lungs through a partially closed glottis. It serves to clear the airways or lungs of irritants or to prevent aspiration of foreign materials.
coumadinMedication to treat blood clots and prevent new clots from forming. Commonly used for chronic atrial fibrillation.
CPcerebral palsy
CPAPconstant positive airway pressure
CPRcardiopulmonary resuscitation
CPTCurrent Procedural Terminology
CRconditioned reflex
crani/oskull
cranialaPertaining to the cranium.
craniumThe skeleton of the head, holding the brain.
crash cartA cart carrying emergency medical equipment and supplies. Found in hospitals, particularly in emergency and intensive care departments.
-crasiamixture, loss of control
cravingAn intense desire to consume a substance.
creat-meat, flesh
cremationIncinerating a corpse.
crepitationA crackling sound that occurs in joints.
CRESTcalcinosis, Raynaud phenomenon, esophageal dysfunction, sclerodactyly, telangiectasia
cretinismA congenital condition caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone.
crin/osecrete
-crineto secrete
crisisThe turning point of a disease.
-critseparate
critical careHealth care provided to a critically ill patient during a medical emergency or crisis.
Crohn diseaseChronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract thought to be caused by inherited and environmental factors and a defect in the immune system.
croupPediatric respiratory infection causing swelling near the vocal cords. It is characterized by a barking cough or stridor.
crur/oleg
cry/overy cold
crypt/ohidden
CSDcat scratch disease
CSFcerebrospinal fluid
CSHcombat support hospital
CTcomputed tomography
Cucopper
cubit/oelbow, forearm
cubitalPertaining to the elbow or forearm.
CUCchronic ulcerative colitis
culd/ocul-de-sac
cumulativeTo pile on. Increasing by successive additions.
cune/owedge, wedge shaped
cupr/ocopper
curettageAn instrument shaped like a spoon, used for scraping material or tissue from a body cavity.
current The flow of electricity or liquids.
Cushing syndromeA condition when abnormally high levels of a hormone called cortisol are present.
-cusishearing
cuspidA tooth with one cusp. In particular, he third tooth to the left and to the right of the midline of either jaw.
cutane/oskin
CVcardiovascular
CVAcerebrovascular accident
CVPcentral venous pressure
CVScardiovascular system
CXRchest x-ray
cyan/oblue
cyanosisA bluish or purplish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes due to inadequate oxygen in the blood.
cycl/orecurring, round
-cyesispregnancy
cyst/ourinary bladder, cyst, sac of fluid
cysticCharacterized by cysts.
cystic fibrosisA genetic disease of the exocrine glands. Large amounts of thick mucus clog the lungs and obstruct the airways.
cystitisInflammation of the urinary bladder.
cystoceleA prolapse of the bladder into the vagina.
cyt/ocell
-cytecell
cytokinesSubstances, such as interferon, interleukin, and growth factors, that are secreted by certain cells of the immune system that act as intercellular mediators.
cytomegalovirusA virus that can be inactive within healthy people, but can cause severe pneumonia when immune systems are suppressed. Symptoms similar to mononucleosis.
-cytosiscondition of cells, increase in number of cells

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