Author: Glossary

A species that is a frequent cause of upper and lower respiratory tract infections, including otitis media in children and bronchitis and pneumonia in the elderly. It is resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics such as most penicillins, but can be treated with many cephalosporins, macrolides, and sulfa drugs.  

A philosophical view based on the premise that one can understand only the ethics and values of one’s own family, clan, culture, or society and not those of others.  

The perception of zigzag flashes of light in the peripheral field of vision that occurs in the dark, especially in older persons. These flashes are due to vitreous tags on the retina. The condition is benign. The subjective visual sensation of lightning-like flashes at the time of eye movements, especially noticeable in dim or absent…

Periods of variation in how one feels, changing from a sense of wellbeing to one of depression. This occurs normally, but may become abnormally intense in persons with manic-depressive states. Swift shifts in emotions are termed mood swings. Mild mood swings, like transitioning from feeling calm to anxious, irritable, or tearful, can manifest in women…

A mood disorder characterized by a period lasting for at least 1 week in which the diagnosis of manic episode and major depressive episode are met nearly each day.  

A distinct period of an abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood that lasts at least 1 week.  

A prominent and persistent disturbance in mood characterized by either or both of the following: markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities; and elevated, expansive, or irritable mood. The clinical and laboratory findings are consistent with attributing the cause to a direct physiological consequence of the general medical condition. The condition…