Author: Glossary

A group of the branches of arteries in the spleen that are arranged like the bristles of a brush. Each consists of successive portions: the pulp arteries, sheathed arteries, and terminal arteries.  

A substance used to determine sensitivity to some forms of penicillin. When it is injected intradermally into a sensitive individual, a wheal appears within 20 minutes.  

A species that may cause systemic infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. It is found most often in Southeast Asia, where it frequently infects patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.  

A hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin, present in about 0.5% to 8% of the population. Although different types of hypersensitivity reactions may occur, the most common and potentially dangerous are the type I ( immediate) reactions mediated by immunoglobulin E. If a patient reports a history of signs of local anaphylaxis (e.g., urticaria) or systemic anaphylaxis…

An antibiotic of the penicillin class. It is relatively stable in an acid medium and is therefore not inactivated by gastric acid when taken orally.  

Any of a group of penicillins that are not inactivated by the enzyme penicillinase. These penicillins retain their effectiveness as antibiotics used for infections caused by bacteria that produce penicillinase.  

An instrument that compares roughly the comparative absorption of x-rays in various metals, especially silver, lead, and aluminum; hence, it gives a rough estimation of the ability of x-rays to penetrate tissues. A step-like aluminum wedge, bearing resemblance to elevated staircases, utilized for assessing the caliber and penetrating potential of an X-ray beam when positioned…

Hanging so as to swing by an attached part; oscillating like a pendulum.  

A form of bone destruction (osteolysis) found in severe inflammatory arthritis, especially in the finger and toe joints. The deformity is characterized by thinning of the phalangeal shaft and widening of its base proximal to the joint space.