Author: Glossary

Rare, inherited (autosomal recessive) disease in which platelets do not function normally to produce a blood clot, and hemorrhage ensues. Treatment is by platelet transfusion. A hereditary blood disease in which the function of the platelets is defective although they are present in normal numbers. The manifestations are identical to those of thrombocytopenic purpura. A…

Condition characterized by tingling sensation in the fingers and caused by compression on a nerve of the arm. A complex condition characterized by pain and abnormal sensations in the hand, arm, shoulder, or neck. The thoracic outlet is located at the top of the rib cage, between the chest and neck. Compression of the nerves,…

12 spinal nerves on each side of the thorax distributed to the walls of the thorax and abdomen. Any of the 12 pairs of spinal nerves that emerge from the foramina between the thoracic vertebrae. All are mixed nerves.  

That branch of medicine concerned with diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the chest.  

Antineoplastic drug used to treat certain malignancies. Adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, and bone marrow depression. One of a dozen or so alkylating agents used to treat malignant disease. It is especially effective for cancer of the bladder.  

Strong, short-acting barbiturate used as anesthesia for very short surgical procedures and as an induction to another anesthetic agent. It depresses respiration and heart activity and may be habit-forming. A short-acting barbiturate. It is given by intravenous injection to produce general anesthesia or as a premedication prior to surgery. Possible complications of thiopental anesthesia include…

Antineoplastic drug used to treat acute leukemias and other malignant neoplastic diseases. Adverse effects include bone marrow depression and gastrointestinal disturbances. A drug that prevents the growth of cancer cells and is used in the treatment of leukemia. It is given by mouth and commonly reduces the numbers of white blood cells and platelets. Other…

Any of a group of compounds, many of which are widely used diuretics. Thiazides are a group of moderately potent diuretics which are effective when taken by mouth. They act by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the renal tubules. They also have a blood-pressure-lowering effect. Chlorothiazide was the first member of this…

Brain-wave frequency of relatively low frequency and low amplitude; the drowsy waves characteristic of a person who is awake but relaxed and sleepy; also called theta wave. It is one of four brain-wave patterns. The 4- to 7-per-second rhythm seen in the electroencephalogram.  

Active principle in hemp-plant derivatives such as marihuana, hashish, and ganja. Considered a mild hallucinogen, it causes sensory and perceptual disturbances, euphoria and other mood changes, decreased motor coordination, and various physiological changes, including alterations in pulse rate, respiration rate, and pupil size. THC is a drug of abuse but has also been used to…