Category: L

Electromagnetic waves at intensity levels below that known to cause obvious damage to living things. Low-level radiation includes that emitted by power lines, nuclear power plants, and appliances such as electric blankets, television sets, and computer terminals.  

A protein released by phagocytes into the blood during a fever. It raises body temperature by acting on the thermoregulatory centers of the anterior hypothalamus.  

In osteopathic practice, manipulation of the thoracic cavity to facilitate lymphatic circulation.  

A pneumatic compression device for application to an edematous limb. It works best when combined with elevation of the limb and manual massage. The device, which may be single-chambered or multichambered, is designed to provide calibrated, sequential pressure to the extremity. This action “milks” edema fluid from the extremity. It is essential that the device…

Movement, particularly walking as if pulled to one side.  

A rare autosomal recessive condition resulting from an undefined metabolic defect. Yellow deposits of a mixture of protein and lipoid occur, especially on the mucous surface of the mouth and tongue. Nodules may appear on the face, extremities, and epiglottis and vocal cords, the latter producing hoarseness.  

One of many acute-phase proteins released into the serum in patients with a gramnegative bacterial infection; it helps to defend the body against sepsis by binding and transferring bacterial endotoxin.  

Herniated intervertebral disk.  

A radiograph in which the central ray is directed through the acoustic meatus and perpendicular to the midsagittal plane of the cranium and the radiographical film. It is used to evaluate the skull for abnormalities caused by developmental or connective tissue diseases, cancer, and trauma.  

A knob on the incus in the middle ear that articulates with the stapes.