Category: C

The space between the carpal bones of the wrist and the connective tissue (retinaculum) over the flexor tendons. It contains the flexor tendons and the median nerve. The canal in the wrist bounded by osteofibrous material through which the flexor tendons and the median nerve pass. The wrist comprises a structure formed by the bones…

Two pairs of veins in the embryo that carry blood from the head (anterior cardinal veins) and trunk (posterior cardinal veins); they unite to form the common cardinal vein, which drains into the sinus venosus of the heart. In an embryo of up to 6 weeks’ gestation, any of the veins (the bilateral anterior and…

A weak sedative and hypnotic, given by mouth and used in the treatment of mild insomnia. Its action lasts for a few hours but prolonged use may lead to dependence.  

A red stain for bacteria and fungi, consisting of carbolic acid and fuchsin dissolved in alcohol and water.  

A short-acting antihistamine, given by mouth in the treatment of allergic conditions, particularly hay fever and rhinitis, and to prevent motion sickness.  

A parasympathomimetic drug used to relieve pressure within the eye in glaucoma. It is also used after surgical operations to restore the function of inactive bowels or bladder. Side-effects may include sweating, nausea, and faintness. A drug which stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system. It may be used for relieving glaucoma and retention of urine due…

A temporary swelling of the soft parts of the head of a newly born infant that occurs during birth, due to compression by the muscles of the neck of the womb. Usually shortened by obstetricians to ‘caput’, this is the temporary swelling which is sometimes found on the head of the newborn infant. It is…

An antibiotic, derived from Streptomyces capreolus, that is used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It is given with other antituberculosis drugs to reduce the development of resistance by the infective bacteria. Capreomycin is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and therefore must be administered by intramuscular injection. The more serious side-effects include ear and kidney…

The technique of fitting a tooth with an artificial crown.  

A system of payment to physicians for medical care of patients. The physician receives a fixed sum of money for each patient assigned to the doctor’s panel of patients, regardless of the amount of medical care required by the patient. The patient is charged for the fixed capitation fee at regular intervals, e.g. ninthly or…