Author: Glossary

In a virus, the protein coat and the viral nucleic acid.  

Any of the bases formed from decomposition of nuclein, such as adenine, guanine, xanthine, and hypoxanthine.  

A test for the presence of specific genetic material in a laboratory specimen, e.g., a specific segment of viral DNA or RNA in a blood sample. NATs are used, e.g., to detect contamination of blood by hepatitis viruses and HIV during the initial period of infection, before viral antigens appear in the blood of infected…

A tumor marker excreted in the urine of some patients with bladder cancer. NMP22 can be used to screen patients for the disease, especially for disease recurrence after primary treatment.  

The removal of DNA from a cell for placement into an egg (e.g., during cloning).  

Any test that relies on the use of radioactive tracers to diagnose disease. Radioactive isotopes are either injected into the body or inhaled, the dose of radiation is minimal, and the substances used either lose their radioactivity in a short time or are excreted. Nuclear medicine scans may be used to diagnose tumors, biliary disease,…

A persistent peritoneal pouch that accompanies the round ligament of the uterus through the inguinal canal.  

Intrauterine ultrasonography of the nape of the fetal neck, measured in the first trimester of pregnancy. Abnormal thickening of this part of the body has been associated with a variety of congenital, chromosomal diseases.  

A trade name for procaine, a local anesthetic. “Novocaine” is often loosely used to signify any local or topical anesthetic in discussions with laypersons.  

An instruction used in patient care to indicate that the patient is not to take or receive food, solids, liquid, or medicine orally. This order is usually indicated by the abbreviation NPO.