Medicine Glossary

Describes a disease or condition with a rapid onset and short duration, as opposed to chronic conditions that develop slowly and persist over time.

The study of the causes or origins of a disease or condition. Also spelled 'etiology.'

A substance that kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections but are ineffective against viruses.

An abnormal heart rhythm resulting from irregular electrical activity in the heart. Arrhythmias range from benign to life-threatening.

The removal and examination of a sample of tissue from the body for diagnostic purposes, typically to determine if cells are cancerous or to identify disease.

Describes a disease or condition that persists over a long period, typically more than three months, often with gradual onset and slow progression.

The presence of one or more additional diseases or conditions occurring alongside a primary condition in the same patient.

The identification of a disease or condition based on a patient's signs, symptoms, history, and results of diagnostic tests.

Swelling caused by the accumulation of excess fluid in body tissues. It can be localized or generalized and has numerous possible causes.

The study of the distribution, determinants, and frequency of disease in populations, and the application of this knowledge to control health problems.

The maintenance of a stable internal physiological environment in the body through self-regulating feedback mechanisms.

Persistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries, generally defined as systolic pressure of 130 mmHg or higher or diastolic of 80 mmHg or higher. A major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

The body's protective response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function. It involves immune cell recruitment and chemical mediator release.

Inadequate blood supply to an organ or tissue, resulting in insufficient oxygen and nutrient delivery. Prolonged ischemia can lead to tissue death (infarction).

The spread of cancer cells from the primary tumor to distant sites in the body through the blood or lymphatic system, forming secondary tumors.

The state of having a disease or the incidence of disease within a population. Distinct from mortality, which refers to death.

An abnormal mass of tissue resulting from uncontrolled cell growth. Neoplasms can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

A microorganism capable of causing disease, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and prions.

A prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease, including the chance of recovery, based on clinical evidence and statistical data.

Measures taken to prevent disease rather than treat it after it occurs. Examples include vaccination, antimalarial drugs for travelers, and pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV.

A life-threatening condition caused by the body's dysregulated immune response to infection, leading to widespread inflammation and organ dysfunction.

A set of signs and symptoms that tend to occur together and collectively indicate or characterize a particular disease or abnormal condition.

The formation of a blood clot (thrombus) inside a blood vessel, which can obstruct blood flow and lead to serious complications such as stroke or pulmonary embolism.

The process of sorting and prioritizing patients based on the severity and urgency of their conditions to determine the order of treatment.

A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens.