Medical & Lab Test Terminology Glossary

A1c- A test that measures how much glucose has been sticking during the past 3–4 months to hemoglobin, the substance in the red blood cells that carries oxygen to the cells of the body.

Abnormalities - the quality or state of being abnormal

ABO Grouping - ABO group - a classification system for the antigens of human blood; used in blood transfusion therapy; four groups are A and B and AB and O.

Abscesses - A localized collection of pus in the tissues of the body.

Acute pancreatitis- is rapidly-onset inflammation of the pancreas

Alamine Amino Transferase (ALT) test measures the amount of this enzyme in the blood. ALT is found mainly in the liver, but also in smaller amounts in the kidneys, heart, muscles, and pancreas. ALT formerly was called serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT).

Albumin - Major Blood protein. Monitors nutritional status, or sometimes kidney status in protein-losing kidney problems.

ALCAT - Food Allergy & Chemical Sensitivity/Intolerance Test
For over 20 years, the Alcat Test has provided both patients as well as healthcare professionals with a tool to successfully overcome a wide variety of conditions which result from food and chemical intolerances.

Alkaline Phosphatase Transferase (ALP) - An alkaline phosphatase (ALP) test measures the amount of the enzyme ALP in the blood. ALP is produced primarily in the liver and in bone. It also is produced by the placenta of a pregnant woman and, to a lesser extent, by the intestines and kidneys.

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a molecule produced in the developing embryo and fetus. In humans, AFP levels decrease gradually after birth, reaching adult levels by 8 to 12 months. Normal adult AFP levels are low, but detectable; however, AFP has no known function in normal adults. In normal fetuses, AFP binds the hormone estradiol. AFP is measured in pregnant women, using maternal blood or amniotic fluid, as a screening test for a subset developmental abnormalities, principally open neural tube defects. It is also measured in pregnant women, other adults, and children, to detect a subset tumors, principally endodermal sinus tumors.

Alternaria- is a genus of ascomycete fungi. Alternaria species are known as major plant pathogens. They are also common allergens in humans, growing indoors and causing hay fever or hypersensitivity reactions that sometimes lead to asthma.

Amenorrhoea- is the absence of a menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age.

Amine test - The amine test (or "whiff" test) is performed by adding a drop of 10% KOH on a vaginal fluid specimen placed on a slide and mixing with a wooden applicator or swab. Sniff for a "fishy" odor. In the presence of bacterial vaginosis and sometimes trichomoniasis, the fishy odor is due to the release of volatile amines.

Ammonium Chloride -also called Sal Ammoniac the salt of ammonia and hydrogen chloride. Its principal use is as an electrolyte in dry cells, and it is also extensively employed as a constituent of galvanizing, tinning, and soldering fluxes to remove oxide coatings from metals and thereby improve the adhesion of the solders. It is a component of many proprietary cold medicines and cough remedies.

Amphetamines - A class of drugs that have pronounced stimulant effects on the central nervous system. Street names include "speed," "uppers," "bennies," "pep pills," and the so-called designer drugs (such as Ecstasy).

Anal squamous intraepithelial lesions - A general term for the abnormal growth of squamous cells on the anus. The changes in the cells are described as low grade (LSIL) or high grade (HSIL), depending on how abnormal the cells are.

Anemia - A lower than normal number of red blood cells.

Annual Check Up -Preventive medicine is one area of health care in which all consumers can exercise more responsibility and control. In so doing, you are most likely to extend and enjoy your healthy years. Regular screening for common health problems is a simple and effective first step.

Anogenital squamous cell carcinomas - Cancer that begins in squamous cells, lining the anogenital region, such as anal cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, penile cancer, or cervical cancer.

Antibiotics - An antibiotic is a chemical compound that inhibits or abolishes the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or protozoans. The original meaning of antibiotic includes any agent with biological activity against living organisms; however, the term is commonly used to refer to substances with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, or anti-parasitical activity.

Antibodies- Our bodies "fighters" that fight against a virus or foreign substance.

Antigens - An antigen is a molecule that stimulates an immune response. The word originated from the notion that they can stimulate antibody generation. We now know that the immune system does not only consist of antibodies. The modern definition encompasses all substances that can be recognized by the adaptive immune system. This includes viruses as well as bacteria. Antigens are usually proteins or polysaccharides.

Antimitotic - Refers to a type of drug that inhibits or prevents mitosis, which refers to nuclear cell division involved in cell reproduction.

Anus - In anatomy, the anus is the external opening of the rectum. Closure is controlled by sphincter muscles. Feces are expelled from the body through the anus during the act of defecation, which is the primary function of the anus.

Appendicitis- Appendicitis means inflammation of the appendix.

Arsenic - a white powdered poisonous trioxide of arsenic; used in manufacturing glass and as a pesticide (rat poison) and weed killer.

Aspartate Amino Transferase (AST) - An aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test measures the amount of this enzyme in the blood. AST is normally found in red blood cells, liver, heart, muscle tissue, pancreas, and kidneys. AST formerly was called serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT).

Aspergillus- mold causing food spoilage and some pathogenic to plants and animals

Asymptomatic - Presenting no signs or symptoms of disease.

At- Risk Lifestyle- This may fall into many categories including sex, drugs, alcohol and many disease related to this lifestyle.

Atherosclerotic heart disease - A condition in which blockages form in the coronary arteries which supply blood to the muscle of the heart; untreated, this may cause heart attacks or sudden death.

Bacterial vaginosis - Overgrowth of bacteria species normally present in vagina, but at low levels, such as Gardnerella, Bacteroides, Mycoplasma hominis, Mobiluncus, Peptostreptococcus. BV correlates with loss of protective (peroxide-producing) lactobacilli, which are normally present in vagina.

Basophils - Basophils are a specific type of white blood cell. Basophils make up only a small portion of the number of white blood cells but are important parts of the body's immune response. They release histamine and other chemicals that act on the blood vessels when the immune response is triggered.

Benzene - is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor. It evaporates into the air very quickly and dissolves slightly in water. Benzene is widely used in the United States; it ranks in the top 20 chemicals for production volume. Some industries use benzene to make other chemicals which are used to make plastics, resins, and nylon and synthetic fibers. Benzene is also used to make some types of rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Natural sources of benzene include volcanoes and forest fires. Benzene is also a natural part of crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke.

Benzathine penicillin - Most common treatment for syphilis. It provides low but persistent serum levels of penicillin, which has proven to be a highly effective treatment. No penicillin resistance has been reported for T. pallidum.

Biliary disease- Gall bladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder

Blood transfusion - Blood transfusion is the process of transferring blood or blood-based products from one person into the circulatory system of another.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) - A waste product in the blood from the breakdown of protein. The kidneys filter blood and remove urea. As kidney function decreases, the BUN level increases.

Bone Density - measure of the mass of bone in relation to its volume to determine the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Bone marrow transplant - Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), of cells either derived from the bone marrow or peripheral blood, colloquially known as bone marrow transplantation is a medical procedure in the field of hematology and oncology that involves transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). It is most often performed for people with diseases of the blood, bone marrow, or certain types of cancer.

Botrytis- is found virtually everywhere plants are grown. It is fast growing, can grow on many different sources of nutrients, survives well in the greenhouse, and can attack many different types of plants.

Bun: creatinine ratio - Creatinine and creatinine clearance tests measure the level of the waste product creatinine in your blood and urine. These tests tell how well your kidneys are working.

Butcher's warts - Warts caused by cutaneous HPV types, such as HPV type 7, typically found on the hands of butchers who handle meat.

CA-125 - A blood test used to measure the level of CA-125, a tumor marker that is often found in higher-than-normal amounts in the blood of women with ovarian cancer. In the current study, it is being evaluated as a possible test to screen for ovarian cancer.

Calcium - A mineral found in teeth, bones, and other body tissues

Calymmatobacterium granulomatis - The bacterium which causes Granuloma inguinale (Donovanosis).

Cancer - Cancer is a disease characterized by a population of cells that grow and divide without respect to normal limits, invade and destroy adjacent tissues, and may spread to distant anatomic sites through a process called metastasis. These malignant properties of cancers differentiate them from benign tumors, which are self-limited in their growth and do not invade or metastasize (although some benign tumor types are capable of becoming malignant). Cancer may affect people at all ages, but risk for the more common varieties tends to increase with age. Cancer causes about 13% of all deaths.

Cancer antigen (CA-15-3)- is a normal product of breast cells; it is produced by a gene that is often overexpressed (i.e., the body makes too many copies) in cancerous breast tumors, leading to an increased production of CA 15-3 and the related Cancer antigen 27.29. CA 15-3 does not cause cancer; rather, it is a protein that is shed by the tumor cells, making it useful as a tumor marker to follow the course of the cancer.

Cancer antigen (CA-19-9)- This test helps to differentiate between cancer of the pancreas and bile ducts and othernon-cancerous conditions, such as pancreatitis; to monitor a patient's response to pancreatic cancer treatment; and to watch for pancreatic cancer recurrence.

Candida albicans- (sometimes referred to as monilia) is a fungus that is normally present on the skin and in mucous membranes such as the vagina, mouth, or rectum. The fungus also can travel through the blood stream and affect the throat, intestines, and heart valves.Carbon Dioxide - It is a molecule known as CO2, which is a biproduct of respiration.

Carinoembryonic Antigen - A blood test that measures this antigen in the blood, which may detect the development of metastasis.

Cardiovascular system - The organ system that includes the blood, the heart, and blood vessels.

CBC - A complete blood count (CBC) provides important information about the kinds and numbers of cells in the blood, especially red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A CBC helps your health professional evaluate symptoms (such as weakness, fatigue, or bruising) and diagnose conditions (such as anemia, infection, and many otherdisorders).

Cephalexin - Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as pneumonia and bone, ear, skin, and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

Cephalosporium- The disease is known to affect wheat, barley, oats, rye and many other grass species.

Cervical Cancer - a malignant disease in the neck of the womb located at the top of the vagina.

Cervical dysplasia - A general term for the abnormal growth of squamous cells on the cervix. The changes in the cells are described in cytological reports as low grade or high grade, depending on how abnormal the cells are.

Cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN) - A general term for the abnormal growth of squamous cells on the cervix. The changes in the cells are described in histological reports as CIN 1, CIN 2, or CIN 3, depending on how abnormal the cells are.

Cervical motion tenderness - (CMT) refers to pain of the cervix and/or uterine fundus elicted as a result of lateral movement of the cervix by the clinician during bimanual examination. CMT is a clinician sign of pelvic inflammatory disease.

Cervix - The cervix (from Latin "neck") is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus where it joins with the top end of the vagina. It is cylindrical or conical in shape and protrudes through the upper anterior vaginal wall. Approximately half its length is visible with appropriate medical equipment; the remainder lies above the vagina beyond view. It is occasionally called "cervix uteri", or "neck of the uterus".

Chancres- A dull red, hard, insensitive lesion that is the first manifestation of syphilis

Chancroid - An infectious venereal ulcer caused by Haemophilus ducreyi, . Endemic in tropical countries including Kenya, Thailand and South Africa. It is less common in the US, though several epidemics have occurred since 1981.

Chancroid culture - Method of growing the causative agent of chancroid, Haemophilus ducreyi, generally employing enriched chocolate agar supplemented with vancomycin. Culture is generally performed with swabs obtained directly from the ulcer site. Culture plates should be incubated in a water-saturated atmosphere with 5% carbon dioxide at a temperature of 33° C.

Change in medication- Certain prescription drugs, and over the counter medication, may cause liver or kidney problems. This is very important as these tests may detect damage being done that does not show physically yet. In this case your Dr. may take you off that medication immediately to prevent further damage.

Chlamydia - A highly infectious infection caused by an intracellular bacteria, Chlamydia trachomatis. It is passed during sexual contact, most commonly infecting the cervix, vagina, urethra, and rectum in women; and infecting the urethra and rectum in men.

Chlamydia trachomatis - The bacteria that causes Chlamydia. There are 15 serotypes. Three produce lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV). Four cause endemic trachoma in SE Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, including the most common cause of preventable blindness in the world today. The remaining serotypes cause (in women) cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis, perihepatitis and urethral syndrome; (in men) nongonococcal urethritis and epididymitis and (in neonates) inclusion conjunctivitis and pneumonia.

Chloride - Chloride is an electrolyte, a negatively charged molecule that works with other electrolytes, such as potassium, sodium, and total carbon dioxide (CO2), to help regulate the amount of fluid in the body and maintain the acid-base balance.

Chlorine-Chlorine is a poisonous, greenish-yellow gas described as having a choking odor. It is a very corrosive, hazardous chemical. Usually combined with other chemicals, it is used to disinfect water, purify metals, bleach wood pulp and make other chemicals.

Chronic constipation- a persistent and lasting disease or medical condition, or one that has developed slowly/ add constipation

Cirrhosis - a condition in which the liver becomes scarred, fibrous, and filled with fat, thus reducing its ability to function.

CMP - Comprehensive Metabloic Panel - The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is typically a group of 14 specific tests The CMP is a frequently ordered panel that gives your doctor important information about the current status of your kidneys, liver, and electrolyte and acid/base balance as well as of your blood sugar and blood proteins. Abnormal results, and especially combinations of abnormal results, can indicate a problem that needs to be addressed.

Cocaine -An alkaloid refined from the cocoa plant that acts as a powerful short-acting stimulant and is pharmacologically similar to amphetamines. Its effects include euphoria, restlessness, excitement, and a feeling of well-being. Slang names include "coke," "flake," "star dust," and "snow." Freebasing, a process of converting cocaine into a form that can be smoked (usually called crack), involves heating with either lighter fluid or other solvents.

Colitis - Inflammation of the large intestine (the colon). There are many forms of colitis, including ulcerative, Crohn's, infectious, pseudomembranous, and spastic. For example, intermittent rectal bleeding, crampy abdominal pain and diarrhea can be symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Diagnosis can be made by barium enema, but direct visualization (sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy) is the most accurate test. Long-standing ulcerative colitis increases the risk for colon cancer. Ulcerative colitis can also be associated with inflammation in joints, spine, skin, eyes, the liver and its bile ducts. Treatment of ulcerative colitis can involve medications and surgery. Common Misspellings: collitis, colitus

Colonic bacterial fermentation- Abnormal fermentation may be an important factor in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Gastroenteritis or antibiotic therapy may damage the colonic microflora, leading to increased fermentation and the accumulation of gas.

Colposcopy - Refers to close examination of the vagina and/or cervix by means of a magnified scope. Diluted acetic acid (3-5%) is applied to the epithelial surface to aid in the identification of abnormalities.

Common warts - Warts caused by cutaneous HPV types that are typically found on the hands.

Constipation- means infrequent stools. For others, however, constipation means hard stools, difficulty passing stools (straining), or a sense of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement.

Coronary arteries - Two arteries arising from the aorta that arch down over the top of the heart, branch and provide blood to the heart muscle.

Creatinine - a substance in the blood (a piece of a protein) which should be at a constant level in the blood. When creatinine levels rise in the blood, it can be a sign that the kidneys are not functioning well. Sometimes, creatinine is measured in the blood and in the urine, as part of a Creatinine Clearance test.

Crohn disease - A chronic inflammatory disease, primarily involving the small and large intestine, but which can affect other parts of the digestive system as well. Crohn disease is usually diagnosed in persons in their teens or twenties, but can come to the fore at any point in life. It can be a chronic, recurrent condition or can cause minimal symptoms with or even without medical treatment.

CRP (C Reactive Protein) - is a plasma protein, an acute phase protein produced by the liver.

Cultures- is a method of growing a microbial organism to determine what it is, its abundance in the sample being tested, or both.

Cytokines - Substances made in the body and synthetically that play a role in the immune response (e.g. tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interferon).

Darkfield microscope - A light microscope with the addition of a special dark-field condenser. This has the effect of making the organism appear as a bright object against a dark background. Typically used to detect motile treponemes indicative of Treponema pallidum, the causative organism of syphilis.

Darkfield microscopy - A quick and direct method of diagnosing primary and secondary syphilis. Darkfield microscopy allows for the direct visualization of the T. pallidum from moist lesions, which cannot be seen using standard stains.

Dermatologist - A doctor who specializes in skin diseases.

DFA - Direct Fluorescent Antibody test. A laboratory culture antibody test for detecting Treponema pallidum from esions samples using fluorescent microscopy. This technique may also be used to detect other organisms when a different antibody is used (for example, Chlamydia trachomatis).

Diabetic gastroparesis- is a diabetic complication that occurs from neuropathy of the stomach nerve (called the "vagus nerve"). This causes digestive difficulties as the food starts to move too slowly through the stomach.

Diabetes - Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.

DNA - The double-stranded, helical molecular chain found within the nucleus of each cell. DNA carries the genetic information that encodes proteins and enables cell to reproduce and perform their functions.

Donovanosis (Granuloma inguinale) - A genital ulcer disease caused by the intracellular Gram-negative bacterium Calymmatobacterium granulomatis. It is endemic to some tropical areas, including India, Papua, New Guinea, central Australia and southern Africa and rare in the United States. Symptoms include painless, progressive ulcerative and highly vascular lesions, which bleed easily on contact.

Dysuria - Painful or difficult urination, most frequently caused by infection or inflammation but it can also be caused by certain drugs.

Early Disease Detection- Early detection saves lives.Many times we show no visible signs and symptoms until the damage is done.

Early latent -means that the duration of infection has been less than 1 year

Ecthyma - Pyogenic infection of the skin characterized by the formation of adherent crusts beneath which ulceration occurs, most commonly localized on the buttocks, thighs and legs; usually caused by infection with streptococci or taphylococci, or both. The initial lesion is a vesicle or vesiculopustule with an erythematous base which is soon surmounted by a hard crust.

Efficacy - Refers to the effectiveness of a drug or treatment.

Epidermodysplasia verruciformis - Refers to numerous flat warts on the hands and feet, sometimes familial, due to human papillomavirus infection.

Erectile dysfunction - The inability to have an erection.

Ethylene glycol- C2H6O2, is commonly used as an antifreeze agent in automobile cooling systems. It is also used in deicing solutions for aircraft and boats. In pure form it is a colorless clear liquid with a sweet taste and a slightly syrupy texture. If ingested, ethylene glycol can damage the kidneys, heart and nervous system.

Fallopian tubes - The Fallopian tubes, also known as oviducts, uterine tubes, and salpinges (singular salpinx) are two very fine tubes leading from the ovaries of females into the uterus.

Family history- Many diseases such as diabetes and high cholesterol can be passed down from your parents/and or grandparents.

Fatigue - Fatigue is a feeling of excessive tiredness or lethargy, with a desire to rest, perhaps to sleep. Often it causes yawning.

First catch urine - In contrast to 'first-void' urine specimen which refers to the first urine of the morning, 'first-catch' urine refers to the initial 10-15 ml of a patient's urine stream when voiding.

Flat warts - Refers to flat type of wart, also called verruca plana.

Flouride-is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. It occurs naturally in all water sources.

Food allergies- Allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system responds defensively to a specific food protein when ingested

Food intolerances- a condition whereby a person is unable to tolerate certain parts of foods. This is different from a food allergy because the immune system is not involved. An example is lactose intolerance, in which certain individuals cannot digest the sugar found in milk. Food intolerance is much more common than food allergy.

Formaldehyde- is a colorless, strong-smelling gas. It is widely used to manufacture building materials and numerous household products. Its most significant use in homes is as an adhesive resin in pressed wood products.

FTA-ABS - Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody-Absorption Test. An indirect fluorescent antibody test used to confirm a diagnosis of syphilis. A technically difficult and highly specific test.

G0 - Gravida zero. Gravida refers to the number of previous/current pregnancies. Para: refers to the number of deliveries after 20 weeks of gestation or of a fetus of more than 500 grams. Aborta: number of induced or spontaneous abortions of a fetus under 500 gm or under 20 weeks of gestation. So this patient would be GoPoAo.

Gallbladder conditions- Any condition that affects the gallbladder.

Gallbladder disease- Gall bladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.

Gallstones - solid masses or stones made of cholesterol or bilirubin that form in the gallbladder or bile ducts.

Gas- Gas or wind produced in the bowel, mostly as a result of the normal activity of bacteria in the bowel.

Gastroparesis- Gastroparesis literally translated means “stomach paralysis”. Gastroparesis is a digestive disorder in which the motility of the stomach is either abnormal or absent.

Genital Herpes - The Herpes simplex virus infection (common names: herpes, cold sores) is a common, contagious, incurable, and in some cases sexually transmitted disease caused by a double-stranded DNA virus. The infection can also affect the brain, in which case the consequent disease is called herpes simplex encephalitis.

Globulin - A category of blood proteins.

Glucose - Simple sugar; the form in which all carbohydrates are used as the body's principal energy source; transported in the blood and metabolized in the tissues.

Gonorrhea -A sexually-transmitted disease that affects the genitals of both sexes, gonorrhea causes burning or difficulty with urination, itching, and a yellow or green discharge. It is easily treated with antibiotics.

Gram stain - The most common diagnostic tool used for gonorrhea, as well as other bacteria in some situations. With this test, bacteria either stain purple (gram-positive) or red (gram-negative). When treated with a decolorizer, gram-positive organisms retain their color; gram-negative organisms do not.

Granuloma inguinale (Donovanosis) - A genital ulcer disease caused by the intracellular Gram-negative bacterium Calymmatobacterium granulomatis. It is endemic to some tropical areas, including India, Papua, New Guinea, central Australia and southern Africa. It is rare in the United States. Symptoms include painless, progressive ulcerative and highly vascular lesions, which bleed easily on contact.

H-pylori (Helicobacter pylori ) - A bacterium that can damage stomach and duodenal tissue, causing ulcers.

Haemophilus ducreyi - The bacteria that causes chancroid.

HDL/LDL - high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).

Heart attack - also called myocardial infarction; damage to the heart muscle due to insufficient blood supply.

Heart Disease - A term to describe many heart disorders, including high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and clogging of the arteries.

Hematocrit - The percentage of red blood cells in the blood.

Hemoglobin - The component of red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Hepatic flexure- A colic flexure is a flexure or bend in the colon. There are two colic flexures in the transverse colon. The right colic flexure is adjacent to the liver, and is therefore also known as the hepatic flexure.

Hepatitis B - a viral liver disease that may be acute or chronic, and can be life-threatening. Symptoms include fever, malaise, fatigue, jaundice, abdominal tenderness, and elevated liver enzymes. Some individuals are chronic asymptomatic carriers; chronic hepatitis B may result in liver cirrhosis and/or cancer. HBV can be transmitted by sexual contact, shared needles, or contaminated blood products. Interferon alpha is used as a treatment; two three-dose anti-HBV vaccines are available.

Hepatitis C - virus spread by blood transfusion and possibly by sexual intercourse or sharing needles with infected people. Hepatitis C may lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Hepatitis C used to be called non-A, non-B hepatitis.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) - Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, also called hepatoma) is a primary malignancy (cancer) of the liver. Most cases of HCC are secondary to either a viral hepatitide infection (hepatitis B or C) or cirrhosis (alcoholism being the most common cause of hepatic cirrhosis).

Herbal remedies- Many people are now using herbal remedies and alternative methods for treatment purposes. It is important to monitor these for effectiveness.

Hernia- is a protrusion of a tissue, structure, or part of an organ through the muscular tissue or the membrane by which it is normally contained.

Herpes - The term "herpes" generally refers to a sexually-transmitted, double-stranded DNA virus called herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 (also known as human herpesvirus 2, or HHV2). This virus is closely related to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1 or HHV1), which is the cause of common nonsexually-transmitted cold sores. These two viruses are among the eight members of the herpesvirus family to infect humans, causing a variety of illnesses ranging from cold sores to brain infection (encephalitis) to chickenpox to various cancers. HSV-1 and HSV-2 are members of the Alphaherpesvirus subfamily. Whereas over 90% of persons are eventually infected with HSV-1, a far lower percentage of persons (5-25%) are infected with genital herpes (HSV-2).

Human Immunodeficiency Virus - Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS, a condition in humans in which the immune system begins to fail, leading to life-threatening opportunistic infections). Previous names for the virus include human T-lymphotropic virus-III (HTLV-III), lymphadenopathy-associated virus (LAV), or AIDS-associated retrovirus (ARV).

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) - Papillomaviruses are a diverse group of DNA-based viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes of humans. Over 100 different human papillomavirus (HPV) types have been characterized. Some HPV types cause benign skin warts, or papillomas, for which the virus family is named. HPVs associated with the development of such "common warts" are transmitted environmentally or by casual skin-to-skin contact. A group of about 30-40 HPVs are typically transmitted through sexual contact and infect the anogenital region. Some sexually transmitted HPVs, such as types 6 and 11, can cause genital warts. However, most HPV types that infect the genitals tend not to cause noticeable symptoms.

Hypertension - Blood pressure that is consistently (more than 6 months) above 140/90. Systolic blood pressure is the top number. Diastolic blood pressure is the bottom number. Hypertension may have no known cause or be associated with other primary diseases (secondary hypertension).

Hyperthyroidism - excessive functionality of the thyroid gland marked by increased metabolic rate, enlargement of the thyroid gland, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and various secondary symptoms.

Hypothalamus - The hypothalamus links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland(hypophysis). The hypothalamus, is located below the thalamus, just above the brain stem. This gland occupies the major portion of the ventral region of the diencephalon. It is found in all mammalian brains, including humans. It is roughly the size of an almond. The hypothalamus gland regulates certain metabolic processes and other autonomic activities. It synthesizes and secretes neurohormones, often called releasing hormones, as needed that control the secretion of hormones from the anterior pituitary gland. The hypothalamus controls body temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian cycles. Also, among other hormones, it releases gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). The neurons that secrete GnRH are linked to the limbic system, which is primarily involved in the control of emotions and sexual activity.

Hypothyroidism - Diminished production of thyroid hormone, leading to thyroid insufficiency, low metabolic rate, and weight gain.

Immunity - the condition in which an organism can resist disease.

Immunocompromised host - Person with decreased immune system, such as HIV or transplant recipient.

Incident - Refers to initial infection after exposure to virus.

Infection - Invasion and multiplication of germs in the body. Infections can occur in any part of the body, and can be localized or systemic (spread throughout the body). The germs may be bacteria, viruses, yeast, or fungi. They can cause a fever and other problems, depending on the site of the infection. When the body's natural defense system is strong, it can often fight the germs and prevent infection.

Infertility - The inability to conceive after one full year of normal, regular heterosexual intercourse without the use of contraception.

Infidelity (Sexual) - Adultery is generally defined as consensual sexual intercourse by a married person with someone other than their lawful spouse. As there is usually an implicit or explicit agreement between spouses to not have sex outside the marriage, the common synonym for adultery is infidelity as well as unfaithfulness or cheating. Furthermore, adultery may also apply to any other sexual activities committed outside the marriage.

Intestinal motility disorders- In normal digestion, food is moved through the digestive tract by rhythmic contractions called peristalsis. When someone suffers from a digestive motility disorder, these contractions are abnormal. This disorder can be due to one of two causes:
1.)A problem within the muscle itself
2.)A problem with the nerves or hormones that control the muscle's contractions

Intralesional - Refers to injection of medication directly into the lesion being treated.

Invasive cancer (carcinoma) - Typically refers to the local spread of cancer by infiltration or destruction of adjacent tissue.

Irritable bowel syndrome- is a disorder characterized most commonly by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. IBS causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it does not permanently harm the intestines and does not lead to a serious disease, such as cancer. Most people can control their symptoms with diet, stress management, and prescribed medications.

Jarisch-Herxheimer - An allergic reaction in some patients treated for syphilis, particularly in the secondary phase. It induces inflammation in syphilitic tissue, believed to be due to a rapid release of treponemal antigen, causing an allergic reaction in the patient. Most cases are relatively mild and can be conservatively managed with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents.

Keratotic - Lesions on the surface of the epidermis marked by overgrowths of a horny layer.

Kidney Disease - Kidney disease is classified as any disease or disorder that affects the function of the kidneys.

Kidney Failure - loss of the kidneys' ability to excrete wastes, concentrate urine, and conserve electrolytes.

Kidneys - the pair of bean-shaped organs in the abdomen that filter out waste products from the blood and make urine.

Lactose intolerance- is the inability to digest significant amounts of lactose, the major sugar found in milk. Lactose intolerance is caused by a shortage of the enzyme lactase, which is produced by the cells that line the small intestine. Lactase breaks down milk sugar into two simpler forms of sugar called glucose and galactose, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream.

Late latent- means the duration of infection has been more than 1 year.

Latent- means no clinical findings-only diagnosed on the basis of laboratory test

Lead - A heavy metal that is hazardous to health if breathed or swallowed. Its use in gasoline, paints, and plumbing compounds has been sharply restricted or eliminated by federal laws and regulations.

Leukemia - Leukemia or leukaemia is a cancer of the blood or bone marrow and is characterized by an abnormal proliferation (production by multiplication) of blood cells, usually white blood cells (leukocytes).

Leukocytes- are cells of the immune system which defend the body against both infectious disease and foreign materials

Levodopa- Levodopa (INN) or L-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine) is an intermediate in dopamine biosynthesis. Clinically, levodopa is used in the management of Parkinson's disease. Biologically, it is a component in marine adhesives used by pelagic life.

LGV - Lymphogranuloma venereum is a genital ulcer disease caused by three serovars of Chlamydia trachomatis (L1, L2 & L3). LGV is endemic in India, East & West Africa, the Caribbean and parts of Southeast Asia. The diagnosis is difficult and frequently relies upon serologic testing.

Lipid Panel - A lipid panel is a blood test that measures lipids-fats and fatty substances used as a source of energy in your body. Lipids include cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).

Liver Cancer - A disease in which malignant (cancer) cells are found in the tissues of the liver.

Lupus is a condition of chronic inflammation caused by an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses that occur when the body's tissues are attacked by its own immune system.

Lymphocytes - White blood cells that play a key role in the body's disease-fighting immune response

Malabsorption- Malabsorption is difficulty in the digestion or absorption of nutrients from food

Marijuana - a strong-smelling plant from whose dried leaves a number of euphoriant and hallucinogenic drugs are prepared .Cannabis: the most commonly used illicit drug; considered a soft drug, it consists of the dried leaves of the hemp plant; smoked or chewed for euphoric effect.

Medication treatment – Monitor your levels of what you are being treated for example; high cholesterol, elevated psa.

Melanoma - cancerous (malignant) tumor that begins in the cells that produce the skin coloring (melanocytes). Melanoma is almost always curable in its early stages. However, it is likely to spread, and once it has spread to other parts of the body the chances for a cure are much less.

Mercury - Heavy metal that can accumulate in the environment and is highly toxic if breathed or swallowed

Metrorrhagia - vaginal bleeding occurring between periods

Metabolic - Pertaining to all chemical functions within the body.

Methionine-A powerful anti-oxidant and a good source of sulfur, which prevents disorders of the hair, skin, and nails; assists the breakdown of fats, thus helping to prevent a buildup of fat in the liver and arteries, that might obstruct blood flow to the brain, heart, and kidneys; helps to detoxify harmful agents such as lead and other heavy metals; helps diminish muscle weakness; prevents brittle hair; protects against the affects of radiation; beneficial for women who take oral contraceptives because it promotes the excretion of estrogen; reduces the level of histamine in the body which can cause the brain to relay wrong messages; helpful to individuals suffering from schizophrenia.

Methyldopa - Methyldopa or alpha-methyldopa (brand names Aldomet®, Apo-Methyldopa®, Dopamet®, Novomedopa®) is a centrally-acting adrenergic antihypertensive medication. Its use is now deprecated following introduction of alternative safer classes of agents. However it continues to have a role in otherwise difficult to treat hypertension and pregnancy-induced hypertension.

(MIC) - Minimal inhibitory concentration is the lowest concentration of the drug that prevents growth of a pathogen.

Microorganism - A microorganism (also spelt as microrganism) or microbe is an organism that is microscopic (too small to be seen by the human eye). The study of microorganisms is called microbiology. Microorganisms can be bacteria, fungi, archaea or protists, but not viruses and prions, which are generally classified as non-living. Micro-organisms are generally single-celled, or unicellular organisms; however, there are exceptions as some unicellular protists are visible to the average human, and some multicellular species are microscopic.

Mittelschmertz - (Which is German for "middle pain") refers to pain associated with ovulation. Ovulation pain is caused by stimulation of the nerves that innervate the ovary due to the increased size of the ovary and/or bleeding and fluid release from the ruptured follicle.

Monitoring previous abnormal test results. "Out of the normal range"? Is it cause for concern? The brief answer is that a result out of the normal range is a signal that further investigation is needed.

Monitoring reoccurrences- You may have received treatment and want to ensure there is no reoccurrence in the disease process.

Monocytes - One type of white blood cell that destroys invading bacteria.

Mycoplasma genitalium - Mycoplasma genitalium is an organism which has been associated with acute symptomatic urethritis and may be implicated in some cases of chronic or recurrent NGU.

Natural history - The progression of an illiness, from acquisition of an organism or beginning of pathology, to its resolution.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae - The bacteria that causes gonorrhea.

Neutrophils - A type of white blood cell that plays a major role in the body's defense against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

New STD symptom or window period- If you put yourself at risk,you may want to do follow up testing to ensure your sexual health. Std's may or may not show symptoms.

Nickel Sulfate- is a green to yellow crystalline (sand-like),odorless solid. It is used to make other Nickel compounds, as a mordant in dyeing and printing textiles, and in coatings and ceramics.

Nongonococcal urethritis - (NGU) - NGU (NonGonococcal Urethritis) is an infection of the urethra caused by pathogens (germs) other than gonorrhea. Recent research has shown that NGU is rising in homosexual partners.

Obesity - Obesity is a medical term meaning the storage of excess fat (adipose tissue) in the body

Opiates - Substances that come from the opium poppy, as well as any substance that dulls the senses, relieves pain, and causes deep sleep. Some, such as morphine and codeine, are helpful in dulling the pain of cancer and other ailments. Others, such as heroin, can be deadly, and all are potentially addictive.

Orris root- is a fixative used in potpourri to enhance color and fragrance potpourri which may be purchased in small quantities at most pharmacies. It can be poisonous and should be handled with care. Some people develop allergies to the root, which is also used for medicinal purposes.

Ovulation-Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary, pushed down the fallopian tube, and is available to be fertilized. The lining of the uterus has thickened to prepare for a fertilized egg. If no conception occurs, the uterine lining as well as blood will be shed. The shedding of an unfertilized egg and the uterine wall is the time of menstruation.

Pancreatic disease- A number of problems can occur in the pancreas. These include:
- Diabetes mellitus: Deficiency of insulin
- Acute pancreatitis: When pancreas becomes quickly and severely inflamed
- Chronic pancreatitis:
- Pancreatic enzyme deficiency
- Pancreas tumor

Pap Smear - The collection of cells from the cervix for examination under a microscope. It is used to detect changes that may be cancer or may lead to cancer, and can show noncancerous conditions, such as infection or inflammation. Also called a Pap test.

PCP - PCP refers to phencyclidine. This drug has both hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. The dissociative effects of PCP leaves users feeling removed from their body and their environment. This effect produces a trance-like state. PCP also has strong anaesthetic effects which produces amnesia (memory loss) and analgesia (pain-relief). Street names for PCP include 'crystal' and 'angel dust'.

Pedunculated - A term to describe something attached by a stem-like or stalk base similar to that of a mushroom, often used to describe skin tags. Peripheral vascular disease - A disease of the blood vessels of the arms, legs and feet. It can occur when major blood vessels are partially or completely blocked and tissues don't get enough blood.

Penis - male reproductive organ consisting of a body or shaft which starts deep inside the body and extends externally to the end of the penis at the glans.

Persistent HPV 16 infection - Refers to 2 or more follow-up visits in which HPV 16 was detected among women enrolled in the vaccine trial.

Phenol- is both a manufactured chemical and a natural substance. It is a colorless-to-white solid when pure. The commercial product is a liquid. Phenol has a distinct odor that is sickeningly sweet and tarry. Phenol is used primarily in the production of phenolic resins and in the manufacture of nylon and other synthetic fibers. It is also used in slimicides (chemicals that kill bacteria and fungi in slimes), as a disinfectant and antiseptic, and in medicinal preparations such as mouthwash and sore throat lozenges.

Phosphorus - In the body, phosphorus exists as a mineral; it is combined with oxygen to form a variety of phosphates (PO4). Phosphates are vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, and bone growth.

PID - Pelvic inflammatory disease (or disorder) is a generic term for infection of the female uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries as it progresses to scar formation with adhesions to nearby tissues and organs. This may lead to tissue necrosis with/or without abscess formation. Pus can be released into the peritoneum. Two thirds of patients with laparoscopic evidence of previous PID were not aware they had had PID. PID is often associated with sexually transmitted diseases, as it is a common result of such infections. PID is a vague term and can refer to viral, fungal, parasitic, though most often bacterial infections. PID should be classified by affected organs, the stage of the infection, and the organism(s) causing it. Although a sexually transmitted infection is often the cause, other routes are possible, including lymphatic, postpartum, postabortal (either miscarriage or abortion) or Intrauterine device (IUD) related, and hematogenous spread.

Pituitary - An endocrine gland located at the base of the brain, in the small recess of a bone - certain sections of the pituitary each secretes important hormones including growth hormone (GH) and antidiuretic hormone (ADH).

Plantar warts - Refers to warts on the sole of the foot.

Platelet - a colorless disk-shaped body in blood that aids blood clotting.

Polymyositis- is a disease of muscle featuring inflammation of the muscle fibers. The cause of the disease is not known. It begins when white blood cells, the immune cells of inflammation, spontaneously invade muscles.

Poor muscle tone- physiological state in which a muscle has decreased tone, or tension. A muscle's tone is a measure of its ability to resist passive elongation or stretching.

Post streptococcal glomerulonephritis- (PSGN) is an uncommon complication of either a strep throat or a streptococcal skin infection. Symptoms of PSGN develop within 10 days following a strep throat or 3 weeks following a GAS skin infection. PSGN involves inflammation of the kidney.

Potassium - A metallic element that is important in body functions such as regulation of blood pressure and of water content in cells, transmission of nerve impulses, digestion, muscle contraction, and heartbeat.

Pre-surgical work-up - a combination of tests prescribed by a physician prior to a surgical procedure.

Pregnancy- Human pregnancy refers to the process by which a human female carries a live offspring from conception until childbirth. The medical term for a pregnant woman is "gravida," just as the medical term for the unborn human is embryo and then fetus.

Poikilocytosis- is a term which indicates that red cells of abnormal shape are present on the blood film.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) - A test that amplifies the nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) of several organisms (depending on the assay). Organisms that can be detected in this fashion include Treponema pallidum, Hemophilus ducreyi and herpes simplex. PCR amplifies the DNA present so that a small number of organisms may still be detected. The specificity for T. pallidum is close to 100%.

Polymyositis - Polymyositis is an uncommon disease that causes inflammation in your muscles. It's a type of connective tissue disease. The most noticeable characteristic of polymyositis is muscle weakness, especially in the muscles closest to your trunk, such as your shoulder and hip muscles. As a result, you may find it difficult to get out of chairs, climb stairs, brush your hair or work with your arms over your head.

Positive predictive value - Positive predictive (PPV) value refers to the probability of disease among persons who have a positive test (or other diagnostic criteria). Negative predictive value (NPV) refers to the probability of no disease among persons who have a negative test (or other diagnostic criteria).

Pregnancy - the state of being pregnant; the period from conception to birth when a woman carries a developing fetus in her uterus.

Premenstrual syndrome-(PMS) is a group of symptoms linked to the menstrual cycle. PMS symptoms occur in the week or two weeks before your period (menstruation or monthly bleeding). The symptoms usually go away after your period starts.

Prescription - written instructions from a physician or dentist to a druggist concerning the form and dosage of a drug to be issued to a given patient.

Preventative Health-The most important part of preventive health care is maintaining good health habits. In addition screening services may prove worthwhile in either preventing or at least minimizing disease. Taking responsibility for your own health is the key to a healthier future for you and your loved ones.

Primary lesions - The lesions associated with syphilis in the primary stage. These are typically one to two cm ulcers with a raised, indurated margin. They are associated with mild to moderate regional lymphadenopathy and most often seen on genitalia.

Proactive - Acting before a situation becomes a source of confrontation or crisis.

Proctitis - The inflammation of the lining of the rectum that may result from an infection or other cause. In some cases, the cause may be unknown.

Prophylactic - Refers to something being used to prevent disease or acquisition of infection.

Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) - A protein that serves as a marker for prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia. PSA levels can be used to help detect prostate cancer, to monitor its treatment, and to warn of possible recurrence.

Prostatitis - infection/inflammation of the prostate gland, usually caused by bacteria.

Protozoa (Trichomoniasis) - infection with the sexually transmitted parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms in women may include vaginal irritation, itching, discharge and painful urination.

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis - Refers to a condition in which warts grow on the back of the throat and may cause respiratory compromise, typically caused by HPV types 6 or 11, in either children or young adults. In juvenile onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, the infection is vertically transmitted from mother to baby.

Red blood cells - Red blood cells are the most common type of blood cell and the vertebrate body's principal means of delivering oxygen from the lungs or gills to body tissues via the blood.

Red cell distribution width (RDW) - A measurement of the variability of red blood cell size. Higher numbers indicate greater variation in size. The normal range for the red cell distribution width (RDW) is 11 - 15. The RDW is a standard part of the complete blood count.

Reproductive tract- The reproductive system comprises the reproductive organs. In the male, the organs include the testes, accessory ducts, accessory glands, and penis. In the female, the organs include the uterus, uterine tubes, ovaries, vagina, and vulva.

Rheumatoid arthritis - (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes stiffness, pain, loss of mobility, inflammation, and erosion in the joints. It usually affects multiple joints symmetrically, the hand and wrists most commonly, but also elbows, neck, shoulders, hips, knees, and feet. Other symptoms include fatigue, fever, the development of nodules under the skin, especially at the elbows, and a sense of not feeling well . Patients with RA may develop anemia, systemic complications, and may have other co-existing autoimmune disorders and symptoms such as the dry eyes and mouth associated with Sjögren’s syndrome.

RPR - Rapid Plasma Reagin test, a nontreponemal serological test for syphilis. An antigen containing cardiolipin, lecithin & cholesterol with charcoal is used in this flocculation test. RPR is fast, easy, inexpensive and often used for syphilis screening. It can be quantified by its titer. By itself, it does not confirm the presence of Treponema pallidum.

Scleroderma- is an autoimmune disease of the connective tissue. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses which occur when the body's tissues are attacked by its own immune system. Scleroderma is characterized by the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the skin and organs of the body. This leads to thickness and firmness of involved areas.

Secondary lesions - The lesions associated with syphilis in the secondary stage. They are typically large, raised, grey to white lesions found in warm, moist areas such as the mouth or perineum. They generally occur in areas near the primary chancre. The most commonly seen are also referred to as condyloma lata.

Sensitivity - The performance of a test (or other diagnostic criteria) among persons with disease. Ex.: Among 100 persons known to have a disease, how many will have a positive test (or other diagnostic criteria). The probability of a positive test among persons with disease.

Serous - watery liquid

Serovars - A subdivision of a species or subspecies distinguished by a common set of antigens.

Sexual Health- Sexuality is an integral part of being human. Love, affection and sexual intimacy contribute to healthy relationships and individual well-being. But along with the positive aspects of our human sexuality, there also are illnesses that can affect our sexual health. In addition, irresponsible sexual behaviors can result in undesirable consequences.

Sjögren's syndrome- is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases are characterized by the abnormal production of extra antibodies in the blood that are directed against various tissues of the body. This particular autoimmune illness features inflammation in certain glands of the body. Inflammation of the glands that produce tears (lacrimal glands) leads to decreased water production for tears and eye dryness. Inflammation of the glands that produce the saliva in the mouth (salivary glands, including the parotid glands) leads to mouth dryness.

Sodium - A mineral needed by the body to keep body fluids in balance. Sodium is found in table salt and in many processed foods. Too much sodium can cause the body to retain water.

Specificity - The performance of a test (or other diagnostic criteria) among persons without disease. Ex.: Among 100 persons known to have no disease, how many will have a negative test (or other diagnostic criteria). The probability of a negative test among persons without disease.

Spherocytosis is an inherited disorder of the red blood cells. It is the most common disorder of the red cell membrane, the bag which contains the hemoglobin molecules that carry oxygen through the blood stream.

Spirochetes - Spiral-shaped bacteria that cause diseases, including Lyme disease and syphilis.

Splenic flexure- Distention of the colon's splenic flexure is an enlargement of the splenic flexure beyond what is normal. The splenic flexure is a bend in the colon.

Squamous cell carcinoma - Cancer that begins in squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells. Squamous cells are found in the tissue that forms the surface of the skin, the lining of the hollow organs of the body (e.g. cervix and anus), and the passages of the respiratory and digestive tracts (e.g. esophagus).

Squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) - A general term for the abnormal growth of squamous cells. The changes in the cells are described as low grade (LSIL) or high grade (HSIL), depending on how abnormal the cells are.

STD (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) - Sexually-transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs), are diseases that are commonly transmitted between partners through some form of sexual activity, most commonly vaginal intercourse, oral sex, or anal sex. They were commonly known as venereal diseases (VD) until some time around 1990, when public health officials introduced the new term in an effort to improve the clarity of their warnings to the public.

STDs- Along with sex comes a responsibility to you and your loved ones. Your sexual health is as important as your basic health!

Sterile - Unable to produce children.

Stroke - A condition produced by a blood clot that lodges in an artery and blocks the blood flow to a portion of the brain, producing symptoms ranging from paralysis of limbs and loss of speech to unconsciousness and death. Less commonly, a stroke may be the result of bleeding into the substance of the brain (cerebral hemorrhage).

Syphilis - Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by Treponema pallidum. The disease has been known under many names during history, including the "French disease", "Great Pox", and "The Black Lion". Syphilis has had a prominent role in history and literature for the last several hundred years. The route of transmission of syphilis is almost always by sexual contact. However, there are examples of congenital syphilis via transmission from mother to child in utero. The signs and symptoms of syphilis are numerous; before the advent of serological testing, precise diagnosis was very difficult. In fact, the disease was dubbed the "Great Imitator" because it was often confused with other diseases.

Testicular Cancer - Testicular cancer is a rare type of cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system.

Testosterone - the male hormone, made primarily in the testes. It stimulates blood flow, growth in certain tissues, and the secondary sexual characteristics.

Thyroid Gland - A large gland situated in front and on either side of the trachea (windpipe) that secretes the hormone thyroxine, which helps regulate body growth and metabolism.

Thyroid hormones - The thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), are tyrosine-based hormones produced by the thyroid gland. They act on the body to increase the basal metabolic rate, affect protein synthesis and increase the body's sensitivity to catecholamines (such as adrenaline). An important component in the synthesis is iodine.

Thyrotropin - Thyroid-stimulating hormone (also known as TSH or thyrotropin) is a hormone synthesised and secreted by thyrotrope cells in the anterior pituitary gland which regulates the endocrine function of the thyroid gland.

TIBC - Total iron binding capacity is a blood test that shows if there is too much or too little iron in the blood. This test helps measure the ability of a protein called transferrin to carry iron in the blood.. Increased TIBC levels may indicate iron-deficiency anemia; decreased TIBC may indicate cirrhosis (TIBC = UIBC + Transferrin is largely made in the liver and regulates your body’s iron absorption into the blood. While the two tests (TIBC and transferrin) are different, they measure essentially the same thing. Most laboratories only measure one or the other. A few laboratories are now measuring the number of sites on transferrin that are not already carrying iron; this is referred to as unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC). This number can be added to the serum iron to calculate the TIBC.

Titer - The concentration of an antibody in solution. Often used in screening tests for various infections and to quantify the response to treatment, especially in syphilis.

Toluene- also known as methylbenzene or phenylmethane, is a clear, water-insoluble liquid with the typical smell of paint thinners, redolent of the sweet smell of the related compound benzene. It is an aromatic hydrocarbon that is widely used as an industrial feedstock and as a solvent.

Total Bilirubin - Bilirubin is an orange-yellow pigment found in bile. It is formed when hemoglobin, the red-colored pigment of red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues, breaks down. Small amounts of bilirubin are present in blood from damaged or old red cells that have died.

Total Protein - A total protein assay measures the amount of proteins found in the plasma. The two major protein components are albumin and globulins. Plasma proteins play a major role in maintaining colloid osmotic pressure, and are a source of amino acids. They also bind and transport a variety of substances including lipids, fatty acids, lipid-like substances, copper, iron, and hemoglobin.

TPPA - Treponema pallidum Particle Agglutination assay. This is a test which detects the presence of treponemal antibodies, and is used to confirm results of a clinical impression or nontreponemal test.

Transplant - An organ transplant is the moving of a whole or partial organ from one body to another (or from a donor site on the patient's own body), for the purpose of replacing the recipient's damaged or failing organ with a working one from the donor site. Organ donors can be living, or deceased (previously referred to as cadaveric).

Trichomoniasis (Protozoa) - infection with the sexually transmitted parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms in women may include vaginal irritation, itching, discharge and painful urination.

Tubal pregnancy - A pregnancy growing outside of the uterus usually in the fallopian tubes (also called ectopic pregnancy).

Tzanck preparation - A method for quick diagnosis of herpes simplex virus, using slides with lesion scrapings stained with Giemsa or Wright stain preparations. Infection with either HSV or varicella-zoster virus are indicated by the presence of multinucleated giant cells.

Ultraviolet Examination - Ultraviolet (UV) light is a popular tool in many forensic investigations for the presumptive identification of body fluids on a variety of substrates.

Urethra - In anatomy, the urethra is a tube which connects the urinary bladder to the outside of the body. The urethra has an excretory function in both genders to pass urine to the outside, and also a reproductive function in the male, as a passage for sperm.

Urinalysis - A test that determines the content of the urine. Because urine removes toxins and excess liquids from the body, it can contain important clues. Urinalysis can be used to detect some types of disease, particularly in the case of bladder or kidney infections, metabolic disorders, and kidney disease. It can also be used to uncover evidence of drug use.

Urinary tract infections - Infections involving all or part of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Often called UTIs.

Uterus - The uterus or womb is the major female reproductive organ of most mammals, including humans. One end, the cervix, opens into the vagina; the other is connected on both sides to the fallopian tubes. The term uterus is commonly used within the medical and related professions, whilst womb is in more common usage. The plural of uterus is uteri.

Vaccine - A suspension of infectious agents or some part of them, given for the purpose of establishing resistance to an infectious disease. It stimulates development of specific defensive mechanisms in the body which result in more or less permanent protection against a disease.

Vagina - Also known as the birth canal. The vagina is a collapsible tube of smooth muscle with its opening located between the urethral orifice and the anal sphincter of women.

Vaginal pH - The vaginal pH among women of reproductive age with a normal vaginal environment is between 3.8 and 4.2. For determination of vaginal pH, touch pH paper to vaginal wall or to discharge in speculum. Avoid contact with cervical mucus because it has a high pH. Match pH paper to color scale to determine the pH value.

Varicella-Zoster Virus - A virus in the herpes family that causes chicken pox during childhood and may reactivate later in life to cause herpes zoster (shingles) in immunosuppressed adults. Also called herpes zoster.

Venipuncture -In medicine venipuncture or venepuncture (also known as phlebotomy, venesection, blood draw, drawing blood or taking blood) is the process of obtaining a sample of venous blood. Usually a 5 ml to 25 ml sample of blood is adequate depending on what blood tests have been requested. In many circumstances it will be done by a phlebotomist, although nurses, doctors and other medical staff are also trained to take blood.

Virus - A microorganism that may infect cells and cause disease.

Virus-like particles (VLP) - Particles often used in the development of vaccines, which are made to resemble true virus with some of the same expressed proteins as the virus, but not capable of causing disease, only an immune response.

Vulvodynia - Refers to pain on the vulva and may occur after incision is made on the vulva or from infection/inflammation on the vulva.

White blood cell (WBC) - a variety of cells that fight infection in the body and are part of the immune system.

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