Medical Glossary

If you are unfamiliar with a medical term or condition, the A-Z medical glossary serves as a quick and easy reference that will give you a general definition and/or description of it.

Alternatively, you may also browse our full list of Medical Terms

A:

Allergies

An allergy is a reaction to a substance that would not usually cause a reaction in a person. Common allergies include various foods, bee and wasp stings, dust and medicines. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances such as viruses, toxins and bacteria, but allergies occur when the hypersensitive immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are usually harmless.

Andrology

The study of diseases that affect men, especially those affecting the genital organs.

Arterial Mapping

A type of diagnostic procedure that involves taking an ultrasound scan of the legs from the groin to the toes.

Artery Assessment

The stretching of an artery occurs when the wall of an artery becomes thinner, causing the artery to expand. An ultrasound scan can be used to detect weakened arteries that otherwise do not have visible or external symptoms.

Arthroscopy

A method of viewing or performing surgery on a joint (shoulder, knee, ankle, elbow, or wrist) by use of an arthroscope, which consists of a tube, lens and a light source designed from fibre optics. This test may be used when there is suspected damage to a ligament, cartilage or joint. An arthroscopy can help monitor the progression of a disease or determine if treatment is working.

Assisted Conception (Fertility Treatment)

The range of services regarding assisted conception include:

In-vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

IVF is the joining of an egg and a sperm in a glass container. In IVF the ovaries are stimulated with specialised fertility drugs to produce a number of eggs. When mature, these are then collected and mixed with sperm to try to achieve fertilisation. If this occurs, the fertilised eggs are then transferred into the womb.

Gamete Intra-fallopian Transfer (GIFT)

GIFT eggs are produced in the same way as for IVF. Once retrieved the eggs and sperm are placed in the fallopian tube(s). This method is used when the woman's tubes are not blocked.

Ovulation Induction (OI)

Ovulation Induction is used for women who are diagnosed as having problems producing eggs. It is also used for women who have unexplained infertility.

Ovum Donation

Ovum donation is offered as a treatment that may be an option for women who cannot use their own eggs. Ovum donors are women under 35 years of age who donate their eggs, which are then fertilised by the sperm from the recipient's husband.

Intra-uterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI involves selection of the best swimming sperm in a similar manner to that used for IVF, a small volume of this sample are passed through a fine tube into the uterus around the time the egg is released. The combination of OI and IUI is now the preferred treatment for unexplained infertility.

Intra-cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

ICSI is the most successful assisted fertilisation treatment for male infertility. For ICSI, IVF is performed on the women (as described above) and then direct injection of a single sperm into the centre of each egg is attempted. It is extremely useful where semen counts are extremely low.

Donor Insemination

Donor insemination is a relatively simple and painless method of treatment where sperm, donated by an anonymous donor, is placed in either the cervix (neck of the womb) or directly into the womb. The latter procedure is called IUI. All donors are screened for sexually transmitted agents (including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)) and genetically inherited diseases.

B:

Back Pain

Back pain could be the result of a slipped disc, rheumatism, repeated minor stresses, bone deterioration or an injury. Whatever the reason, it can bring both discomfort and misery to sufferers, seriously affecting their quality of life. Many spinal problems can be prevented, some can be self-treated but others do need professional help and advice.

Brachytherapy

A procedure using radiation in the treatment of cancer.

Breast Screening

Breast screening by mammography is the most effective way to detect breast cancer in its early stages. Mammography is an X-ray technique used to visualise the breast tissue, enabling detection of any abnormalities or disease.

C:

Cardiac Catheterisation

This involves passing a catheter (a thin flexible tube) into the right or left side of the heart to obtain diagnostic information. Cardiac catheterisation can determine pressure and blood flow in the heart's chambers, collect blood samples and examine the arteries of the heart.

Cardiac Diagnostic Services

A number of non-invasive investigations into heart disease are available, including:

24-hour ambulatory electrocardiograph (ECG) monitoring

This is a simple, unintrusive assessment of the heart rhythm, while the patient carries out his normal activities. The test will identify tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) or brachycardia (slow heartbeat).

24-hour mini ECG monitoring

This assessment can monitor intermittent palpitations. The ECG monitor is light, and can be carried around by the patient, and used to record heart activity.

24-hour blood pressure monitoring

This can help a doctor decide whether to start treatment for high blood pressure. It is also useful in monitoring patients who are already undergoing treatment.

Two-dimensional (2-D) echocardiography

A 2-D ultrasound heart scan (echocardiography), which is useful in the investigation of hypertension, and defining the cause of breathlessness or heart murmurs.

Cardiology

The study of the heart and blood vessels. The cardiovascular system includes arteries, veins, arterioles, venules, and capillaries.

Cardiothoracic

Surgery inside the chest including the heart and rib cage.

Cataract

This appears as an opaque or cloudy area on the lens of the eye. A common form is the result of the ageing process. Other forms may be congenital (present at birth or soon after) or caused by infection or injury. Treatment involves surgically removing the lens, while an artificial lens may also be implanted in the eye. Alternatively, corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses can be used.

Cervical Smear

An examination used for the early detection of cancer cells in the cervix. It involves taking cells from the cervix, and analysing them under a microscope.

Chemotherapy

The treatment of disease with chemicals or drugs; and more often refers to the treatment of cancer using various drugs.

Computerised Tomography (CT)

It provides clear three-dimensional (3-D) images of body organs and their structures, which help doctors make an early and accurate diagnosis.

Corneal Laser Surgery

Surgery to correct short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia) by using modern laser technology.

Cytoscopy

A procedure that enables a urologist to directly view the inside of the urinary bladder in great detail using a cystoscope. This may be carried out under general anaesthetic, or under local anaesthetic on an outpatient basis.

Cosmetic Surgery

A branch of surgery that deals with problems of appearance that develop during life.

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

The effects of ageing are most apparent around the eyes. Excess loose skin and/or fat accumulate in the upper and lower eyelids; "eye bags", as they are commonly known can result.

Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)

A branch of cosmetic surgery which reshapes the nose to improve a patient's appearance, or to relieve nasal blockage, snoring and other breathing related problems.

Breast Reshaping or Augmentation (Enlargement)

A process that has to do with enlarging, reducing or lifting a woman's breasts.

Facial Aesthetics

This involves making incisions behind the hairline and hidden within the creases of the ears. Excess fatty deposits are removed and loose muscles tightened. The slack in the skin itself is then taken up, and the excess removed. As a result, the sagging skin on the face and neck is reduced.

Removal of Skin Blemishes

Many skin blemishes respond well to laser treatment. A laser is directed at the affected area, and the beam is made up of yellow light, which is not absorbed by the healthy skin, but only by the darker blood vessels causing the blemish. These break down, and are dealt with by the body's own defence mechanisms. Laser surgery is particularly effective in the removal of blemishes in children and babies, whose skin is especially responsive to the treatment.

Body Fat Removal through Liposculpture (Liposuction)

A procedure that can treat fatty deposits that occur in certain areas of the body, on both men and women alike. One or more incisions are made (no more than half an inch long) and a surgical tube known as a cannula is inserted. Through this tube the fatty deposits are broken down and removed through suction.

D:

Dental Implants

A permanent solution to lost teeth. These implants are permanently fixed cosmetic teeth, and unlike, dentures they are never removed. This is an alternative for people who find traditional dentures uncomfortable. They also allow people to eat and chew more easily, as they provide the same strength and stability of natural teeth.

Dental Surgery

A range of dental treatments are available. Please enquire for specific details.

E:

ENT (Ears, Nose and Throat)

ENT surgeons deal with problems concerning the ears, nose or throat.

Eating Disorders

A group of serious disturbances in eating behavior, such as extreme and unhealthy reduction of food intake or severe overeating, as well as feelings of distress or extreme concern about body shape or weight.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A measure of the electrical activity of the heart, which gives important information about the rate and regularity of beats, the size and position of the chambers and any damage to the heart.

Endocrinology

An area of medicine concerned with the glands that produce and secrete different hormones into the blood or lymphatic systems. These glands include the thyroid, parathyroid, hypothalamus, pineal, pituitary, adrenal, islands of Langerhans in the pancreas, and the gonads (testes and ovaries). The effects of these hormones may affect organs or tissues, or the entire body. Disorders may result, including osteoporosis and diabetes, when too little hormone is secreted (hyposecretion) or too much is secreted (hypersecretion).

Endometriosis

This has to do with endometrial tissue lying outside the uterus, most commonly in the ovaries and other pelvic structures. Ovarian endometrial may lead to pelvic inflammation, infertility and pelvic adhesions.

Endoscopy

A direct examination of organs or cavities by using a flexible instrument called an 'endoscope', and may be placed directly into a natural body opening or through a small incision. An endoscope consists of a tube and optical system.

Laparoscopy is an abdominal exploration using a type of endoscope called a laparoscope.

Gastroscopy is an examination of the oesophagus, the stomach and the first part of small bowel known as the duodenum, by means of an instrument called a gastroscope.

Colonoscopy is an examination of the large bowel by means of an instrument called a colonoscope.

Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence)

A problem whose causes can be wide ranging, from physical through to psychological problems. Clinics are available to discuss the problems being experienced, and to have a physical examination. The treatment options available include physical devices, drug therapy and counselling.

Eye Laser Surgery

Surgery to correct short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia) by using modern laser technology.

F:

Facial Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing services that use the new generation of carbon dioxide lasers. The laser machines are safe, effective and used to treat a variety of conditions ranging from:

Removal of sun damaged skin
Removal of fine wrinkles
Removal of unwanted hair
Treatment for pigmented lesions and thread veins

G:

Gastroenterology

The branch of medical science concerned with the stomach, intestines and related structures such as the oesophagus, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.

General Medicine

Non-surgical medical treatment.

General Surgery

A generic term used for surgery that is not classified under other types of surgery.

Genitourinary Medicine

The area of medicine concerned with the genitals and urinary organs, and the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases.

Gerontology

The study of geriatrics.

Gynaecology

The study of diseases of the female reproductive organs.

H:

Haematology

The area of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the blood and blood-forming tissues.

Hair Removal by Laser

Removal of unwanted hair on the face, neck, arms, legs, armpits and bikini line, using lasers which produces a bright flash of light that heats the brown pigment in the hair. The hair and its root are damaged under the skin with the surrounding skin remaining largely unaffected.

Health Screening

A comprehensive medical examination with advice on how you could improve your health. It includes numerous checks and thorough testing. Different types of health screens are available for men and women, depending upon whether you require a general appraisal of your health, or a thorough medical examination.

Heart Disease

See:

Cardiac Catherisation
Cardiac Diagnostic Services
Cardiology
Cardiothoracic
Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Hernia

Men and women of all ages can suffer from a hernia. The hernia develops from a weakness in the abdominal wall, and appears as a lump when standing, or following coughing or straining. Although the hernia may not be painful, it may require treatment, as it may get bigger over time, and become more problematical. Hernias may be treated by conventional surgery, or by "keyhole" surgery, which means a more rapid return to normal activities

High Dependency Unit (HDU)

An area for patients who require more intensive observation, treatment and nursing care than are usually provided on a general ward. It is a standard of care between the general ward and full intensive care.

Hip Replacement

Surgery to replace all or part of the hip joint with an artificial device (prosthesis) to restore joint movement.

Hip Resurfacing

A new hip replacement operation that involves an incision into the thigh to insert an implant comprising of a plastic cup and metal stem. The new procedure is conducted by removing the diseased cartilage from the joint and replacing it with a new lining, comprising of a metal head and cup-like implant which prevents the bones from rubbing painfully against one another. In effect, they resurface the bones in the joint rather than replacing them.

Home Care

Due to illness or frailty many people require help at home to assist with daily tasks. These include getting up or going to bed, bathing or showering, personal care, cooking, domestic tasks and shopping.

Hysterectomy

The surgical removal of a woman's womb (uterus). Hysterectomies are performed for a variety of reasons, including cancer of the uterus, endometriosis, excessive bleeding which does not respond to hormone therapy, severe persistent pelvic pain, prolapsed uterus or relaxation of the uterus.

I:

Impotence

See Erectile Dysfunction

Incontinence

This condition can range from an occasional leak of urine caused by laughing, sneezing or coughing, to a complete inability to hold any urine.

Infertility Treatment

See Assisted Conception (Fertility Treatment)

Intensive Treatment Unit (ICU)

Patients would be admitted to this unit for treatment of actual or impending organ failure, or who may require life support and close monitoring following surgery.

K:

Knee Replacement

L:

Laparoscopy

see Endoscopy

Liposculpture

see Cosmetic Surgery

Lymphoedema

A collection of protein rich fluid, which is evident as a swelling in the soft tissues below the skin, and may occur following damage to the lymphatic system, due to cancer, radiotherapy, surgery, fibrosis, infection, injury or congenital abnormalities.

M:

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

A modern diagnostic technique that enables a precise scan of the body to be made without the need for X-rays. Since its development, MRI has been extremely successful in the diagnosis of a wide range of illnesses. Due to the accuracy of the technique, it allows for the early detection of many abnormalities.

Maxillo Facial

The area of medicine concerning the jaw (maxilla), face and the front part of the skull.

Menopause

The changes that occur at the time of the menopause can have profound short and long-term effects on a woman 's health. Symptoms of the menopause that can benefit from treatment include hot flushes, night sweats, tiredness, insomnia, mood changes, poor memory, joint aches and pains, dry skin and hair, decreased libido and vaginal dryness. Long-term problems that can be prevented include osteoporosis, heart disease and strokes. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used to treat symptoms of the menopause, and there are a growing number of preparations available.

Minimal Access Surgery (MAS)

Surgery that requires only a small incision to be made. It is also commonly referred to as "Keyhole Surgery".

N:

Nephrology

Science of the structure and function of the renal system, and the treatment of diseases of the kidney and renal system.

Neurology

The branch of medicine that deals with the brain and nervous system, and their diseases.

Neurophysiology

The science of the functions of the brain and nervous system within the body.

Neuro-physiotherapy

The treatment of neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease. Neurophysiotherapy is also used to benefit those recovering from a stroke, or neurologically impaired patients including those who may have had a head injury.

Such patients may have restricted use and control over their bodies. This treatment can help facilitate and maximise their physical abilities. It includes a comprehensive neurological assessment, a treatment plan with realistic goal setting and a course of home exercises for the patient.

Neurosurgery

Surgery to the brain and nervous system.

O:

Obesity

A condition where a person is overweight and has a body mass index (BMI) of over 35 or 40. There are several ways of treating obesity, including various surgical procedures.

Obstetrics

The branch of medicine that deals with pregnancy and childbirth. Various antenatal classes, counselling and ultrasound services are offered to pregnant women to bring about a successful delivery and a normal baby.

Oncology

The branch of medicine dealing with cancer.

Ophthalmology

The area of medicine concerned with the eye.

Oral Surgery

Surgery involving the mouth and the structures within.

Orthodontics

A branch of dentistry that corrects irregularities of the teeth and jaw. Depending upon the problem, treatment can vary from straightening crooked or protruding teeth to reconstructive work on the jaw itself.

Orthopaedics

The branch of medicine that deals with prevention or correction of disorders involving the skeleton, joints, muscles and other supporting structures such as ligaments and cartilages.

Orthoptics

The science of correcting defects to normal vision due to faults in the eye muscles.

Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a complementary medicine that takes into account physical symptoms, but also lifestyle, attitudes and current health of the patient. It focuses on the treatment of joints and muscles through manipulation and stretching. This treatment can help after periods of immobility, muscle or joint strain.

Osteoporosis

Brittle bone disease, as it is known, usually affects menopausal and post-menopausal women, but men can also suffer from it too. People with eating disorders and other groups such as steroid takers may also be at risk. Osteoporosis is the generic term for an abnormally low total bone mass or bone density. Low bone density leads to an increased risk of fracture. Fortunately, the technology now exists to detect the disease in its early stages.

Ovarian Screening

Diagnostic procedure to detect ovarian cancer.

P:

Paediatrics

Medical science relating to the care of children and treatment of their diseases.

Pathology

The study of the nature and cause of diseases.

Periodontology

Branch of dentistry dealing with the treatment of diseases of the gum and tissues around the teeth.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy uses exercises that help with movement and stimulate the body's own healing processes. It can assist in the treatment of a wide range of complaints, including back and joint problems, sports related injuries, damaged muscles, strokes, incontinence problems, arthritis and even bronchitis.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

The commonest hormonal disturbance to affect women. The main problems that women with PCOS experience are menstrual cycle disturbances (irregular or absent periods), difficulty in controlling body weight and skin problems (acne and unwanted hair growth on the face or body).

Prostatic Hypertrophy

Enlargement of the prostate gland in the male, due to the ageing process rather than inflammation. The condition is benign, but may require surgery if the enlargement progresses.

Prostatectomy

The surgical removal of part or all of the prostate gland. This can be performed in a number of different ways depending on the size of the prostate, and the cause of the prostate enlargement.

Prostate Screening

Many men from the age of 50 and above experience bladder discomfort as a result of an enlarged prostate gland. This widespread complaint occurs when the swollen gland obstructs the urinary passage and irritates the bladder, resulting in a desire to urinate more frequently, but an inability to produce a normal flow. There is now a blood test available to screen for prostate cancer

Psychiatry

The branch of medicine that deals with diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the mind.

R:

Radiology

The branch of medicine concerned with radioactive substances, including X-rays, radioactive isotopes, and ionising radiations. The application of these is used in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Reconstructive Surgery

Surgery to rebuild parts of the body after accidents, illnesses or diseases.

Renal

Pertaining to the kidney.

Respiratory

The study and treatment of diseases of the breathing and respiratory organs, eg asthma.

Rheumatology

The branch of medicine concerned with rheumatic diseases. Rheumatism is a general term used to describe inflammation, soreness and stiffness of painful joints.

Rhinoplasty

See Cosmetic Surgery

S:

Sclerotherapy (Thread Veins)

The process of removing thread veins from any part of the body. They are caused when small clusters of red veins form just beneath the skin. Although harmless, they can cause distress, as the sufferer often feels self-conscious, particularly if the blemish is on an exposed part of the body, such as the legs.

Sclerotherapy involves either a series of small injections being made into the affected area, or the use of a laser, causing the veins to close up and eventually disappear.

Sleep Apnoea

Snoring affects millions of people of all ages and both sexes. Snoring is caused by the collapse of the upper airway normally maintained by muscle tone. Vibration in this segment will cause snoring.

In more serious cases where the airway collapses, breathing is stopped or obstructed, resulting in possible damage to your health as the level of oxygen in the blood is reduced. This is known as "obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome" which leaves an individual feeling tired in the morning and often means that they feel drowsy or fall asleep during the daytime.

Spinal Rehabilitation

Back pain affects about one in three people every year. For one in five, it becomes a chronic, disabling problem. Today, spinal rehabilitation programmes are available, effectively combining physiotherapy and relaxation techniques.

Sports Injuries

Exercise is good for the body, the heart and lungs both benefit from increased use, joints become more flexible and your muscles are kept supple, resulting in all round fitness. However, participating in sport does mean that extra stress is placed upon the body, which all too often can result in injuries.

By using the body's own healing mechanisms, medical specialists can not only effectively treat an injury, but also help prevent the occurrence of future injuries by strengthening particularly vulnerable parts of the body.

Stroke Rehabilitation

After a stroke, the patient will require rehabilitation, involving various exercises. This treatment is offered in conjunction with physiotherapy

T:

Termination of Pregnancy

Ending a pregnancy before the foetus reaches the stages of viability.

Testicular Self-examination (TSE)

TSE is a technique for detecting the early stages of testicular cancer. This worrying condition, which can develop at any age, most often occurs in males between 15 to 40 years old. Modern, improved methods of treatment mean that the chances of being cured are high, but treatment is most effective when the cancer is detected as early as possible.

Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid is a small gland at the front of your neck. Its function is to control the metabolism of the body. By releasing hormones into the blood it influences the heart rate, body temperature, weight and nervous system. Thyroid disorders are common, and can affect anyone at any age.

The type of treatment needed will depend on the condition of your thyroid. An underactive thyroid may simply require hormone supplements. An overactive thyroid gland may need a course of tablets, or an operation may be required.

Tonsillectomy

Surgery to remove the tonsils. Tonsils protect against infections. However, in some people, particularly in children with larger tonsils, these glands can perform less efficiently and cause frequent throat and ear infections or obstruct breathing. In these cases, surgery to remove the tonsils is of benefit.

U:

Ultrasound

Diagnostic examination that outlines the shape of various tissues and organs in the body using sound waves. This method does not use X-rays and so it is utilised during pregnancy.

Ultraviolet Skin Treatment

Treatment of acne and psoriasis skin conditions with ultraviolet rays. Patients will need to be referred for this treatment by their general practitioners (GPs), or via one of the dermatology consultants at the hospital.

Urology

The branch of medicine concerned with the urinary tract and urogenital system.

V:

Varicose Veins

As many as one in three persons are likely to suffer from varicose veins at some time in their lives. Although varicose veins are not a serious problem, they can cause aching and swelling of the legs, as well as being some what embarrassing in appearance. The problem can be treated by injection and surgery.

Vascular/Arterial Surgery

Surgery involving blood vessels, blood flow and arteries.

Vasectomy

A procedure to produce sterility in a man. Men who have undergone this treatment to block the sperm tube continue to ejaculate in a normal manner, but the ejaculate does not contain sperm. Sterilisation by this method should not alter the sex drive or libido. In some cases this procedure can be reversed, and therefore make the man fertile again.