Category: P

A swelling, in the abdomen or elsewhere, caused by local muscular contraction or the accumulation of gases, that mimics a swelling caused by a tumor or other structural change. The condition is usually associated with emotional disorder, and the ‘tumor’ may disappear under anesthesia. An apparent tumor due to muscular contractions or flatus that resolves…

An excessively strong impulse to touch or rub parts of one’s own body.  

The embryonic penis or clitoris, before the urethral duct has reached its final state of development. An alternative name for the penis, this word may also be used to describe a penis-like object. In embryology the phallus is the rudimentary penis before the urethral duct has completely developed.  

Surgical removal of one or more of the small bones (phalanges) in the fingers or toes.  

Rows of supporting cells between the sensory hair cells of the organ of Corti. One of the cells supporting the hair cells of the organ of Corti. These cells form several rows of outer phalangeal cells (Deiters’ cells) and a single row of inner phalangeal cells.  

Rapidly spreading ulceration with sloughing of dead skin. A sloughing ulcer that spreads rapidly.  

A small structure within a cell that is similar to a lysosome but contains different enzymes, some of which may take part in reactions involving hydrogen peroxide. A class of single-membrane-bound vesicles that contain a variety of enzymes including catalase. They are present in most human cells but are concentrated in the liver. The absence…

A type of cell surrounding the smallest blood vessels (terminal arterioles and venules and capillaries). It is not capable of contraction, and its function is uncertain. A stem cell that may give rise to smooth muscle cells; often found around capillaries.  

The surgical separation of adhesions between the heart and surrounding structures within the rib cage (adherent pericardium). The operation has now fallen into disuse. Separation of adhesions between the visceral and parietal pericardium.  

A small painful swelling beside the anus, occurring after a bout of straining to pass feces or coughing. Perianal hematomas are caused by the rupture of a small vein in the anus. They often heal spontaneously but occasionally rupture. Rarely this is followed by abscess formation. If severe pain continues, surgical removal can be undertaken.…