Category: P

An X-ray technique in which dye is injected through the liver into the bile duct to detect obstruction. A percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram is a radiographic examination of the bile ducts using X-rays. In this procedure, a needle is inserted through the skin and passed across or over the liver. The needle is then directed into…

Tapping various body areas such as the front and back of the chest, and listening to organs such as the heart or lungs with a stethoscope, usually during a physical examination.  

A gonorrheal infection caused by organisms containing a substance (penicillinase) that resists treatment with penicillin. A special type of penicillinase-resistant penicillin must be used to treat these cases.  

A test done to determine sensitivity (allergy) to penicillin. A highly dilute solution of penicillin is injected into the skin. If no allergic reaction occurs, it’s safe to administer the drug.  

A blood test for heterophil antibodies, used to confirm the diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis. A test for mononucleosis based upon the fact that patients with this disease develop antibodies which agglutinate sheep red blood cells. A blood test, alternatively known as the heterophil agglutination test, employed to identify Epstein–Barr virus infection, responsible for glandular fever.…

The portion of total gas pressure exerted by oxygen in its gas phase in equilibrium with blood; decreased in obstructive lung disease, asthma, heavy exercise, and certain blood diseases.  

The portion of total gas pressure exerted by the carbon dioxide in blood; increased in certain respiratory conditions and in chest injuries, decreased in uncontrolled diabetes, liver or kidney disease, severe diarrhea, and during rapid breathing.  

An sudden increase in the heart rhythm that produces a very rapid heart rate. A type of tachycardia (unusually fast heartbeat) that tends to emerge suddenly and cease just as swiftly. It might arise from irregular muscle contractions within one of the heart’s chambers.  

A sudden increase in the heart rate to as much as 100-200 beats per minute. Symptoms include a fast, fluttering sensation in the chest, along with feelings of weakness, palpitations, low blood pressure, and shortness of breath. A term formerly used for paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (“paroxysmal” implies that the arrhythmia begins and ends suddenly).  

Fluoroscopic monitoring used to guide the insertion of a pacemaker.