Category: G

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor; a chemical that fosters the development of the white blood cells known as granulocytes. This growth factor is used to treat people with leukopenia (a very low white blood cell count), particularly after bone marrow transplant or intensive chemotherapy for cancer.  

A superficial raw area in the mucous membrane that lines the stomach. Gastric erosion is a relatively common problem. The main symptom is bleeding of the affected area, although symptoms may not always be present. In rare severe cases, bloody vomiting may occur. Unlike a gastric ulcer, there is no danger of gastric erosion penetrating…

A technique developed in the 1990s that delivers a high dose of radiation to a precise target in the skull without cutting into the area. Gamma knife radiosurgery is used in neurological procedures, along with a local anesthetic, for treatment of malignant brain tumors, benign brain tumors, vascular abnormalities in the brain, and trigeminal neuralgia…

A rare cancer that originates in the gallbladder. Symptoms are typically intense abdominal pain and indigestion. An individual who experiences abdominal pain, unintentional weight loss, diminished appetite, fever, nausea, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes) should contact a doctor. The only known cure is surgical removal of the gallbladder,…

Pertaining to the female reproductive system.  

Aa blood or urine test for phenylalanine, an amino acid. Elevated levels are seen in patients with phenylketonuria, an inherited enzyme deficiency that causes mental retardation if not diagnosed and treated soon after birth.  

An enzyme found in the blood that is sometimes markedly elevated in patients with hepatitis and other types of liver disease and in infectious mononucleosis.  

A test done on blood, after the patient drinks concentrated glucose solution, to assess pituitary human growth hormone (HGH) secretion. Elevated levels may confirm gigantism (excessive growth).  

Microorganisms that do not retain the violet dye used in the Gram stain method but instead take the color of the counterstain.