Author: Glossary

Reaction occurring 1 or 2 weeks after the injection of antiserum (donor serum containing desired antibodies) and caused by an antibody reaction to an antigen in the donor serum. Symptoms of fever, enlarged spleen, joint pain, and swollen lymph glands occur. An allergic reaction, usually to an injected drug. May cause fever, joint pains, rash,…

Anti-depressent that works by inhibition of the uptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin; common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, tremor, insomnia, somnolence, and dry mouth.  

Smooth, transparent membrane, containing fibrous connective tissue, that lines many large cavities of the body (e.g., the pleural cavity, peritoneal cavity, and pericardial cavity). Serous membranes usually consist of two layers: a visceral layer covering the organs and a parietal layer lining the cavity walls. Between the two layers is a small space filled with…

Duct through which semen passes, as the ejaculatory duct. Any of the ducts that convey sperm, specifically the ductus deferens and the ejaculatory duct.  

To a disease that tends to end or resolve without treatment. There exists a condition known as a self-limiting disease, which follows its natural progression without necessitating intervention from healthcare professionals.  

Sedative used in the treatment of insomnia and convulsions. Adverse effects include respiratory depression, paradoxical excitement, and allergic reactions. Chemical signal that triggers a biochemical response; formation is usually stimulated by a drug, neurotransmitter, or hormone binding a cell surface receptor. One of the most common is cyclic AMP, whose function as a second messenger…

Small transdermal disc that contains the medication scopolamine and is placed behind the ear to prevent motion sickness; the disc delivers the medication over a period of three days; side effects include blurred vision, dryness of the mouth, and drowsiness.  

Drug or cell that removes disintegrated tissues or abnormal compounds in the body. Anti-oxidant drugs function as free-radical scavengers, removing them from the body. Certain types of white blood cells remove foreign material or bacteria from the body, much as a scavenger bird would clean the carcass of a dead animal.  

Institution for treatment of persons with long-term or chronic disorders. Prior to modem antibiotics, persons with tuberculosis were placed in a TB sanitarium. Also, colloq. for an institution that treats persons with mental disorders. An institution for the treatment and recuperation of persons having physical or mental disorders. Promoting, to conditions that are conducive to…