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The cardiac pacemaker.a small area of specialized tissue within the wall of the right atrium of the heart whose spontaneous electrical activity initiates and controls the beat of the heart. An artificial pacemaker is an electronic device that stimulates the heart muscles by delivery small electric shocks to it, thereby taking over the role of the cardiac pacemaker.
 Research Pacemaker
Pachymeningitis is an inflammation of the dura mater of the brain.
Research Pachymeningitis
Pacinian corpuscles are fast-conducting, bulb-shaped receptors located deep in the dermis. They are the largest of the skin's receptors and are believed to provide instant information about how and where we move. They are also sensitive to vibration. Pacinian corpuscles are also located in joints and tendons and in tissue that lines organs and blood vessels.
Research Pacinian Corpuscle
Paediatrics is the branch of medical science concerned with children and their diseases.
Research Paediatrics
Paedophobia is the fear of children.
Research Paedophobia
Paget's cancer is a cancer of the nipple and surrounding tissue.
Research Paget's Cancer
Paget's disease (osteitis deformans) is a chronic disease of the bones characterised by inflammation and deformation.
Research Paget's Disease
Pagodone is a drug which mimics the action of GABA, a neurotransmitter, which reduces excessive neuronal activity thought to be responsible for the symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks.
Research Pagodone
Pagophobia is the fear of ice or frost.
Research Pagophobia
The palatine bones consist of a vertical part and a horizontal plate and make up part of the orbital floor, the nasal cavity, and the back part of the palate. The two palatine bones are joined at the palate at the median palatine suture. Each bone is pierced by one greater palatine foramen and two lesser palatine foramina. Each palatine bone is also articulated with the vomer, and the conjunction of these bones forms the posterior nasal spine. The vertical portions of each palatine bone articulate with the inferior nasal concha and the ethmoid bone. The horizontal plates of the palatine bones also join the two palatine processes of the maxilla bones, at the transverse palatine suture.
Research Palatine Bones
The palatine processes are the lower wings of the maxilla which form the two halves of the forward palate. The connection of the two palatine processes is marked with the median palatine suture, which sometimes may be felt by the tongue as a ridge in the roof of the mouth. The palatine processes connect to the palatine bones, which form the posterior plates in the palate.
Research Palatine Processes
The palatine tonsils (tonsilla palatina), are two prominent, rounded bodies of lymphatic tissue, located on each side of the tongue at the back of the mouth in the pharynx. They lie beneath the mucous membrane lining mouth and are closely associated with the soft palate. They vary in size in different individuals and are a small part of the body's protection against infection. The tonsils are composed of lymphoid tissue, which contains germ-killing cells. When they become infected, they become inflamed in a condition known as tonsillitis. The tonsils and adenoids are two pairs of organs that seem to give more trouble than service to the body.
Research Palatine Tonsils
The palatoglossal arch is created by the connection of the plato-glossal muscle to the upper region of the tongue and the rear of the palate.
Research Palatoglossal Arch
The palatoglossus muscle (glossopalatinus) originates from the soft palate and inserts on the side of the tonge. Humans have one on each side of the tongue. The two palatoglossus muscles work together to raise the back of the tongue. These two muscle are innervated by the pharyngeal plexus. The genioglossus, the styloglossus, the
palatoglossus and the hyoglossus work together to move the tongue.
Research Palatoglossus
The palatopharyngeal arches are located near the uvulae and palate. On each side of the base of the uvulae are two curved folds of mucous membrane called the palatopharyngeal arches.
Research Palatopharyngeal Arches
The palatopharyngeus muscle (pharyngopalatinus) originates from the soft palate and inserts into the posterior border of the thyroid cartilage. This muscle depresses the soft palate and raises the pharynx and larynx. It is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus.
Research Palatopharyngeus Muscle
The palmar arch, as its name implies, crosses the palm of the hand. There are two branches: a superficial and a deep. The deep palmar arch is formed by the continuation of the radial artery and a branch of the ulnar artery. It supplies the palm of the hand, principally the deep muscles of the hand, thumb, and index finger. The superficial palmar arch is a continuation of the ulnar artery and connects with the radial artery supplying the carpal extremities of the metacarpal bones (the fingers).
Research Palmar Arch
The palmar interossei consists of three small muscles that help bend the fingers. The first muscle originates from the second metacarpal bone and inserts into the ulnar side of the index finger. The second muscle originates from the fourth metacarpal bone and inserts into the radial side of the little finger. The third muscle originates from the fifth metacarpal bone and also inserts into the radial side of the little finger. The muscles are innervated by the ulnar nerve and supplied by the palmar metacarpal artery, which is a part of the palmar arch.
Research Palmar Interossei
The deep and superficial palmar veins follow the path of the palmar arteries, crossing the palm and connecting with the ulnar vein and the radial vein.
Research Palmar Veins
The palmaris brevis muscle works in conjunction with the palmaris longus muscle to bend the hand at the wrist. It is a short muscle that originates from the palmar aponeurosis on the ulnar side of the hand and inserts into the skin on the same side of the hand. This muscle is innervated by the ulnar nerve and supplied by superficial palmar branches of the ulnar artery. This muscle wrinkles the skin on the medial side of the palm.
Research Palmaris Brevis
The palmaris longus is a short, narrow muscle that originates from the medial epicondyle of the humerus and converges into a long, slender, slightly flattened tendon that inserts in the flexor retinaculum of the wrist. It is innervated by the median nerve and supplied by the ulnar artery. This muscle bends the hand at the wrist.
Research Palmaris Longus
Palpation is a medical examination conducted by touch.
Research Palpation
Palsy is a medical term for full or partial paralaysis with involuntary tremors.
Research Palsy
Pamocil is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Pamocil
Pamoxicillin is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Pamoxicillin
Pamoxin is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Pamoxin
The pancreas is an elongated secreting gland which lies transversely across the back wall of the abdomen, behind the stomach. It secretes pancreatic juice, which contains ferments necessary for digestion and the absorption of proteins, fats and starches. Insulin is also secreted.
Research Pancreas
The pancreatic ducts allow transport of pancreatic fluids from the many lobules of the pancreas to the duodenum of the intestine. The primary pancreatic duct, also called the canal of Wirsung, is the main duct which accepts contributions of fluid from the many tributary ducts leading from these lobules. An accessory pancreatic duct is occasionally found to branch off of the primary pancreatic duct in the neck of the pancreas and opens into the duodenum about three centimeters above the opening of the primary pancreatic duct.
Research Pancreatic Ducts
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which may occur as an acute, painful attack, or it may be a chronic condition resulting in gradual symptoms over a long time. Pancreatitis is caused by a buildup of digestive enzymes within the pancreas. Chronic pancreatis often follows long-term excessive alcohol consumption.
Research Pancreatitis
Pandemic refers to a disease affecting persons over a wide geographical area, that is an extensively epidemic disease.
Research Pandemic
Pannus is an opaque, inflamed membrane spreading over the front of the eye. It is a complication of trachoma, and obscures vision.
Research Pannus
Panophobia (pantophobia) is the fear of everything.
Research Panophobia
Panthophobia is the fear of disease.
Research Panthophobia
Pantophobia is the fear of fears.
Research Pantophobia
Papaphobia is the fear of Pope.
Research Papaphobia
The interdental papilla are the small projections of fleshy tissue between the teeth in the dental arch. These protruding portions of gingeva can often be pulled away from the tooth quite easily, as when cleaning the teeth, resulting in mild bleeding.
Research Papilla
A papilloma is a benign tumour of the skin or of a mucous membrane, especially in the nasal cavity or the uterus. It consists of overgrown and thickened epidermis or epithelium and manifests itself as a wart, corn, polyp, or condyloma.
Research Papilloma
A papule is a spot, or blemish, that is raised above the surrounding skin.
Research Papule
Papyrophobia is the fear of paper.
Research Papyrophobia
Parabolin is an anabolic steroid. It causes increased protein synthesis and amino acid consumption, androgensisis, catabolism, and gluticocototitosis. It is used for sports performance enhancement, relief and recovery from common injuries, rehabilitation, weight control, anti-insomnia, and regulation of sexuality, aggression, and cognition.
Research Parabolin
Paracentesis thoracis is a simple procedure in which a needle is introduced through an intercostal space in order to withdraw pleural fluid for pathological examination or to relieve pressure on the lung. It is carried out under local anaesthesia and apart from syringes, needles and the anaesthetic solution, no special apparatus is required. Penicillin or other antiseptic solution may be injected at the end of the aspirating procedure. Paracentesis for the withdrawal of large pleural effusions requires the addition of a two-way tap or special aspiration apparatus. The ' Potain's' aspirator is sometimes used. For paracentesis following thoracic operations air-pressure adjustments are frequently necessary and an artificial pneumothorax apparatus is required. This machine measures the intra-pleural pressure in expiration and inspiration. Special needles are used for the induction or refill of pneumothorax to provide a connection for the pressure gauge. Following paracentesis there are two main risks: (a) the development of a haemothorax from inadvertent puncture of the lung surface, with subsequent bleeding. (b) surgical emphysema from an escape of air from the pleural space into the subcutaneous tissues.
Research Paracentesis Thoracis
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is an analgesic. Over doses of Paracetamol can cause liver damage.
Paracetamol was first used in medicine in 1893. However, it gained widespread use only after 1949, when scientists discovered that another popular drug, phenacetin, is converted to Paracetamol in the body. Paracetamol proved to be as effective as phenacetin but is less toxic.
Research Paracetamol
Paraesthesia is the medical term for an abnormal sensation resulting without external cause, such as a tingling or 'pins-and-needles' sensation. Paraesthesia is a common symptom associated with the compression or irritation of a nerve.
Research Paraesthesia
Paralipophobia is the fear of neglecting duty.
Research Paralipophobia
Paralytic discharge is the increased secretion from a gland resulting from the cutting of all of its nerves.
Research Paralytic Discharge
Paraphimosis is the retraction of the foreskin in uncircumcised men behind the head of the penis that cannot be brought forward, resulting in severe swelling. It often requires an emergency cirumcision or partial circumcision.
Research Paraphimosis
Paraphobia is the fear of sexual perversion.
Research Paraphobia
Paraplegia is paralysis of the lower half of the body, usually as the result of disease or injury of the spine.
Research Paraplegia
Parasitophobia is the fear of parasites.
Research Parasitophobia
Paraskavedekatriaphobia is the fear of Friday the 13th.
Research Paraskavedekatriaphobia
Parasomnias are activities such as walking, talking, and urinating which are associated with being awake but which occur during sleep. The most common parasomnia is sleepwalking which occurs more commonly in children than adults. In children, parasomnias are rarely treated, but in adults they are often treated with benzodiazepines or anticonvulsants.
Research Parasomnias
The parathyroid glands are small glands, usually four in number, embedded within the back of the thyroid. These glands produce the hormone parathormone, which regulates the level of calcium and phosphorus in the blood and bones. Parathormone tends to increase the concentration of calcium in the blood by increasing bone breakdown. This hormone has the opposite effect of calcitonin (thyrocalcitonin) which is secreted by the thyroid gland. Calcium plays an important role in many metabolic processes; too much calcium (hypercalcemia) or too little calcium (tetany) can disrupt the normal function of the muscles and nerves. Parathormone functions to help maintain homeostasis of blood calcium. The body's cells are extremely sensitive to changing amounts of blood calcium.
Research Parathyroid Glands
Paratyphoid fever is a disease resembling, but less severe than typhoid fever. It is characterised by chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea and is, caused by bacteria of the genus Salmonella.
Research Paratyphoid Fever
The parietal bones are two of the flat cranial bones that form the roof and upper sides of the calvarium. The parietal bones are attached to each other by the sagittal suture which runs longitudinally along the roof of the skull, and both of the parietal bones are attached to the frontal bone by the coronal suture and to the occipital bone in back by the lambdoid suture. The intersection of the two parietal bones and the occipital bone is called the 'lambda' after its resemblance to that Greek letter. The sphenoid and temporal bones on each side of the skull are attached to the lower edge of the parietal bone by the squamous suture. Two ridges traverse the side of the parietal bone, extending to the frontal bone and forming a depression with the temporal fossa. These two ridges are called the superior and inferior temporal lines.
Research Parietal Bones
The parietal eminences are the raised lines which mark the outer margin of the parietal bones.
Research Parietal Eminence
The pleura of the thorax are the serous membranes which enclose the upper chest cavity. The pleura enclose the lungs and protect them from friction against the wall of the thorax. It is formed of two layers - the visceral and parietal pleura - between which is lubricated by serous fluid. The parietal pleura is the exterior layer of this pulmonary pleural sac, which connects to the thorax wall, the mediastinal membrane, and the diaphragm muscle.
Research Parietal Pleura
Parkinson's disease (paralysis agitans or shaking palsy) is a progressive chronic disorder of the central nervous system characterised by impaired muscular coordination and tremor.
Research Parkinson's Disease
The parotid fascia covers the parotid gland and lies just behind the masseteric fascia, which covers the masseteric muscle. Fascia covers muscles and attaches to the periosteum of bones.
Research Parotid Fascia
The parotid gland is a large salivary gland.
Research Parotid Gland
Parthenophobia is the fear of virgins or young girls.
Research Parthenophobia
Parturiphobia is the fear of childbirth.
Research Parturiphobia
Pasetocin is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Pasetocin
The patella (kneecap) is a small bone of the knee joint which resembles an inverted teardrop. The patella is connected to the joint by the medial and patellar retinaculum ligaments and to the tuberosity of the tibia by the patellar ligament.
Research Patella
A pathogen is any agent that can cause disease.
Research Pathogen
Pathogenesis is the origin, development, and resultant effects of a disease.
Research Pathogenesis
In medicine, the term pathological means relting to, involving or caused by disease.
Research Pathological
Pathology is the branch of medicine concerned with the cause, origin, and nature of disease, including the changes occurring as a result of disease.
Research Pathology
Pathophobia (nosophobia) is the fear of disease.
Research Pathophobia
Patroiophobia is the fear of heredity.
Research Patroiophobia
Peccatophobia is the fear of sinning.
Research Peccatophobia
The pectineus muscle lies on the front of the upper and middle part of thigh. It is a flat, quadrangular muscle that originates from the crest of the pubis and, to some extent, from the surface of the bone just in front of it. It inserts in the pectineal line of the femur. This muscle is innervated by the obturator and femoral nerves and supplied by branches of the posterior profunda femoris artery and the common femoral artery. The pectineus flexes and moves the thigh towards the body and rotates it toward the center.
Research Pectineus
The pectoralis major muscle is located at the front of the thoracic cage. It is a thick, fan-shaped muscle and is divided into three parts that begin at the armpit and cover most of the front of the chest. The upper, or clavicular, part (clavicular head) originates from the clavicle. The lower, or sternocostal portion (sternocostal head), originates from the sternum and the costal cartilage of the first to sixth ribs. The abdominal portion originates from the external oblique muscle. The three portions unite, covering a wide area and then narrowing to insert into the crest of the greater tubercle of the humerus. The pectoralis major muscle is innervated by the anterior thoracic nerve and supplied by the thoracic artery. This muscle is used when you bring your arms across the chest, raise and lower the arms and to rotate the arms. The clavicular portion will raise the arm, while the sternocostal portion will pull it down.
Research Pectoralis Major
The pectoralis minor originates from the third, fourth, and fifth ribs and inserts into the tip of the corocoid process of the scapula. This muscle works with the pectoralis major muscle to bring your arms across the chest, raise and lower the arms and to rotate the arms. This muscle is innervated by the anterior thoracic nerve and is supplied by the lateral thoracic artery.
Research Pectoralis Minor
The bones of the toes (and fingers) are known as phalanges. Each toe has three phalanges, with the exception of the large toe, which has only two. The phalanges are referred to by their position with respect to the body when the foot is extended. The bones at the ends of the toes, because they are the most distant from the body, are the distal phalanges. The next are the middle phalanges (which the large toe does not have). Those articulating with the metatarsals of the foot are the proximal phalanges. The ends of each phalanx are somewhat bulbous at the site of articulation with other bones. These prominences also serve as sites of attachment for phalangeal ligaments.
Research Pedal Phalanges
Pediculophobia is the fear of lice.
Research Pediculophobia
Pediophobia is the fear of dolls.
Research Pediophobia
The pedis lumbricals are four small lumbrical muscles that are associated with the tendons between the four small toes. The first muscle originates from the tendon of the flexor digitorum longus muscle on the tibial side of the second toe. The second, third, and fourth lumbricals originate from adjacent sides of the four tendons of the lexor digitorum longus muscle. They insert into the extensor tendons of the four toes. The lumbrical muscles are innervated by the lateral and medial plantar nerves and are supplied by the plantar artery. These muscles work with the tendons to flex the corresponding digital joint.
Research Pedis Lumbricals
Pedophobia is the fear of children.
Research Pedophobia
Peladophobia is the fear of bald people.
Research Peladophobia
Pellagra (commonly known as Mal de la Rosa, Mal Rosso, Alpine Scurvy, Asturian Rose, or Psilosis Pigmentosa) is a non-contagious disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid or niacin) in the diet, common among people where maize is the staple food, but also among poor peoples in Europe, Africa, Asia and North America. Pellagra is generally endemic and slowly evolves. It is characterised by burning or itching often followed by scaling of the skin, inflammation of the tongue and mouth, diarrhoea, and manic depression. In particular, patients exhibit a rash around the neck which resembles a rosary, from whence pellagra obtains its popular names. The symptoms usually reoccur each year in the same season, usually during the spring but sometimes autumn. The first authentic case of pellagra in Great Britain was reported in 1866, a second in 1906 and a third in 1909. In 1914 the first case in Canada was reported, and in 1920 an outbreak was reported in Nanking, China. During the Great War many Turkish troops and Armenian refugees developed the disease.
Research Pellagra
A pellagrin is a person affected by pellagra.
Research Pellagrin
Pellagrophobia is the fear of pellagra.
Research Pellagrophobia
In medicine, the term pellagrose refers to a part of the body affected by pellagrin.
Research Pellagrose
The pelvis creates the basin of the lower abdominal cavity. It is formed by three separate bones which become fused: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. The ilium is the broad, wing-like segment which features the wide, slightly concave surfaces of the back and sides of the pelvic girdle. The ischium forms the smaller, lower, portion which bears the weight of the body while sitting. The pubis creates an archway in the front of the basin which allows the urethra, blood vessels, and nerves to pass through the pelvic girdle to the external genitalia and lower body. The pelvis articulates with the sacrum in the back (and thereby connects to the rest of the vertebral column) and to the legs through the ball- and-socket joint formed by the two acetabula of the
pelvis and the head of each femur.
Research Pelvis
Pemphigus is a name given to a group of blistering skin diseases, and particularly to a potentially fatal form (pemphigus vulgaris) which is characterised by large blisters on the skin, mucous membranes of the mouth, genitals, intestines, etc., which eventually rupture and form painful denuded areas from which critical amounts of bodily protein, fluid, and blood may be lost.
Research Pemphigus
Penamox is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Penamox
Penbiosyn is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Penbiosyn
Peniaphobia is the fear of poverty.
Research Peniaphobia
The penis is the male genital organ which carries the duct for the emission of sperm, and ejection of urine. In mammals it is comprised mainly of erectile tissue, many mammals (including most primates, rodents and others) except humans having in addition a bone (known as the baculum bacula or os Penis) in the penis to allow instant arousal, or erection, to facilitate penetration of the female for the transference of the sperm, humans lacking this bone require to be aroused in order to be able to copulate.
Research Penis
Penis envy is a theory postulated by Sigmund Freud to explain various behavioural characteristics of women. Today, most psychologists consider the concept of women being jealous of men for possessing a penis to be laughable at best, and like almost all Freud's theories this one was never substantiated by verifiable supporting evidence.
Research Penis Envy
Penmox is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Penmox
Pensyn is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Pensyn
Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate is an anti-anginal drug used to reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks.
Research Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate
Pentheraphobia is the fear of mother-in-laws.
Research Pentheraphobia
A peptic ulcer is a chronic sore or crater extending through the protective mucous membrane lining and penetrating the underlying muscular tissue of the gastrointestinal tract. The areas most commonly affected are the upper part of the duodenum, the stomach. The cause of peptic ulcers is largely unknown, but stress is known to be a contributor in some cases.
Research Peptic Ulcer
Perception is the ability to observe and understand, particularly intuitively.
Research Perception
Percorten acetate is a brand name for the adrenal gland hormone drug desoxycorticosterone acetate.
Research Percorten Acetate
A percussor or plexor is a tool like a hammer with a rubber head which is used in medicine to tap the body lightly to evaluate the size, borders, and consistency of internal organs or body cavities.
Research Percussor
A percutaneous nephroscope is a thin fiberoptic medical device that is inserted into the kidney through a skin incision to allow inspection of the inside of the kidney and the removal of small kidney stones.
Research Percutaneous Nephroscope
The Perez reflex is the normal response of an infant that includes crying, moving the arms and legs, and holding up the head and hips when it is on its back and a finger is pressed along the spine from the lower back to the neck. The Perez reflex is used to test for possible brain damage, the reflex usually ceasing at about six months of age.
Research Perez Reflex
Perfluorocarbons are a group of chemicals that act somewhat like red blood cells by carrying oxygen through the blood vessels. They are sometimes used as artificial blood to substitute for real blood and can be used regardless of the patient's blood type.
Research Perfluorocarbons
The pericardium is the outer membrane which surrounds the heart muscle. It is in contact with the pulmonary pleura and is connected to the diaphragm muscle by tendinous fibres.
Research Pericardium
The periformis (piriformis; pyriformis) is a flat, pyramid shaped muscle lying partly in the pelvis and partly at the back of the hip joint. The muscle originates from the sacrum, passes through the sacrosciate foramen, and inserts as a round tendon into the upper edge of the great trochanter of the femur. It is innervated by the sciatic plexus and supplied by the internal iliac artery. This muscle helps rotate the thigh towards the side.
Research Periformis
The periodonteum (or periodontal membrane) is a layer of connective tissue around a tooth which helps anchor it in the alveolus. The periodonteum is similar to the supportive periosteal membrane in bones, as it carries the nerves and blood vessels which supply nourishment to the pulp cavity of the tooth.
Research Periodonteum
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with diseases affecting the tissues and structures that surround teeth.
Research Periodontics
The periosteum is the tough, vascular membrane which covers the surface of a bone, except for the articular cartilage. The periosteum contains the blood vessels which supply nutrients to the bones enabling them to regenerate. The bones of the skull feature no such periosteum, and so cannot regenerate themselves. The periosteum also facilitates the regeneration of bone by serving as a confining membrane for the deposition of new bone cells, insuring that any regeneration of osseous material is added to the pre-existing bone.
Research Periosteum
The peritoneum is a complex, serous membrane lining the lower abdominal cavity. Its function is to provide a lubricating surface against which the viscera may move so that they are not damaged by friction. In the male body, the peritoneum is predominately a closed, sac-like structure, while in the female, the fallopian tubes penetrate the peritoneum. The peritoneum contains the lesser cavity at the upper abdomen, near the stomach and transverse colon. The duplicating folds of the peritoneum are called omenta. The greater omentum is the largest of these and hangs down from the stomach over the small intestine. The greater omentum is composed of highly vascularized and innervated fatty tissue, protecting the lower viscera from shock and infection.
Research Peritoneum
The peroneal artery is one of the three branches of the popliteal artery. The anterior and posterior tibial ateries form the other two branches.
Research Peroneal Artery
The peroneal nerves include the common (peroneus communis), superficial (peroneus superficialis), and deep peroneal (peroneus profundus) nerves. Originating in the sciatic nerves, which branch off of the spinal cord between the fourth lumbar and third sacral vertebrae, these nerves extend to the calf muscles, the skin of the top of the foot, and the toes.
Research Peroneal Nerves
The peroneal veins are small branches from the lower legs that join the posterior tibial vein, which accompanies the posterior tibial artery as it ascends along the leg.
Research Peroneal Vein
The peroneous brevis (fibularis brevis) is a flat, elongated muscle located on the outside of the lower half of the leg. It lies just below the peroneus longus muscle, originating from the lower surface of the fibula (lower leg bone) and inserting in the base of the metatarsal bone of the little toe. It is innervated by the peroneal nerves and supplied by the peroneal artery. This muscle works with the peroneus longus to extend the foot.
Research Peroneus Brevis
The peroneus longus (fibular muscle) is a superficial muscle that runs along the upper part of the outside of the leg. It originates from the upper shaft of the fibula and lateral condyle of the tibia (lower leg bones), descends across the outer side of the calcaneum , crosses the sole of the foot and is inserted in the cuniform and the outer side of the base of the metatarsal bone of the big toe. The peroneus longus is innervated by the peroneal nerves and supplied by the peroneal artery. This muscle works with the peroneus brevis to extend the foot.
Research Peroneus Longus
The peroneus tertius (fibularis tertius) lies against the peroneus brevis muscle. It is connected to the extensor digitorum longus, and often considered a part of it. The
peroneus tertius originates from the lower third of the fibula (lower leg bone) and the adjacent interosseous membrane and continues downward and slightly forward, across the ankle, where it tapers into a narrow, flat tendon that passes over the extensor digitorum brevis and inserts into the fifth metatarsal bone (little toe). It is innervated by deep branches of the peroneal nerves and supplied by branches of the peroneal artery. This muscle lifts the foot.
Research Peroneus Tertius
Pertussin ES is a tarde name for dextromethorphan hydrochloride
Research Pertussin ES
A pessary is a vaginal suppository.
Research Pessary
The petrosquamous fissure, or suture, denotes the margins of the petrous part of the temporal bone and the squamous part. The squamous part is the anterior section, which comprises most of the glenoid fossa. The petrous part is the posterior section, which forms the rear portion of the glenoid fossa and the frontal wall of the tympanum and external auditory meatus.
Research Petrosquamous Fissure
The petrous part of the skull is a small bony process located between the sphenoid and occipital bones. It projects inward slightly and serves to house and protect the inner auditory structures.
Research Petrous Part
Phagophobia is the fear of swallowing.
Research Phagophobia
Phalacrophobia is the fear of becoming bald.
Research Phalacrophobia
The bones of the fingers and toes are known as phalanges. Each finger has three phalanges, with the exception of the thumb, which has only two. The phalanges are referred to by their position with respect to the body when the hand is extended. The bones at the ends of the fingers, because they are the most distant from the body, are the distal phalanges. The next are the middle phalanges (which the thumb does not have). Those articulating with the metacarpals of the hand are the proximal phalanges. The ends of each phalanx are somewhat bulbous at the site of articulation with other bones. These prominences also serve as sites of attachment for phalangeal ligaments.
Research Phalanges
Phallophobia is the fear of a penis, especially when erect.
Research Phallophobia
Pharmacophobia is the fear of drugs.
Research Pharmacophobia
Pharyngology is the branch of medical science concerned with the pharynx and its diseases.
Research Pharyngology
The pharynx is the upper portion of the airway and the digestive tract. It connects with openings into four general areas: the mouth cavity (at the back of the tongue), the nasal cavity, the larynx (which leads to the trachea), and the esophagus. In swallowing, the nasal part of the pharynx, the larynx, and the mouth cavity cooperate to shut off the airway so that the swallowed food isn't taken into the trachea.
Research Pharynx
Phasmophobia is the fear of ghosts.
Research Phasmophobia
Phencyclidine (PCP) is a dissociative aesthetic and central nervous system stimulant. Which was formerly used as a human tranquilliser, discontinued in 1953 and as an animal tranquilliser, discontinued in 1979.
Research Phencyclidine
Phengophobia is the fear of daylight or sunshine.
Research Phengophobia
Phenobarbital (Acro-lase, Barbidonna Elixir, Belladenal, Bellergal-S, Bronkotabs, Donnapine, Donnatal, Hyosophen, Kinesed, Levsin-PB, Lufyllin-EPG, Mudrane GG, Nembutal, Quadrinal, Rexatal, Solfoton Tedral) is an orally ingested or injected drug that depresses the sensory cortex, decreases motor activity, alters cerebellar function, and produces drowsiness, sedation and hypnosis. It is a respiratory depressant and ultimately, barbiturates interfere with the cortexs impulse transmission. It is used in medicine to reduce anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia. Prevent seizures and convulsions and as a pre-operative medication
Research Phenobarbital
Phenylbutazone is an anti-inflammatory drug used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases.
Research Phenylbutazone
Philemaphobia is the fear of kissing.
Research Philemaphobia
Philophobia is the fear of falling in love.
Research Philophobia
Philosophobia is the fear of philosophy.
Research Philosophobia
A phobia is an intense and irrational fear of a given situation, organism, or object. A list of Some more common phobias:
- Acarophobia is the fear of itching.
- Acerophobia is the fear of sourness.
- Achluophobia (lygophobia) is the fear of darkness.
- Acousticophobia is the fear of sound.
- Acrophobia is the fear of being at a great height.
- Aerophobia is the fear of draughts.
- Agoraphobia is the fear of open spaces.
- Ailurophobia is the fear of cats.
- Algophobia is the fear of experiencing or witnessing bodily pain.
- Americophobia is the fear of American people and things.
- Androphobia is the fear of men.
- Anemophobia is the fear of wind.
- Anginophobia is the fear of narrowness.
- Anglophobia is the fear of Britain.
- Anthophobia is the fear of flowers.
- Anthropophobia is the fear of people.
- Antlophobia is the fear of floods.
- Apeirophobia is the fear of infinity.
- Apiphobia is the fear of bees.
- Aquaphobia is the fear of water, especially because of the possibility of drowning.
- Arachnophobia is the fear of spiders.
- Asthenophobia is the fear of weakness.
- Astraphobia (or astrophobia) is the fear of thunder and lightning.
- Atelophobia is the fear of imperfection.
- Atephobia is the fear of ruin.
- Autophobia (ermitophobia) is the fear of loneliness.
- Bacillophobia (microbiophobia) is the fear of microbes.
- Bacteriophobia is the fear of bacteria.
- Ballistophobia is the fear of bullets.
- Bathophobia is the fear of depth.
- Batophobia is the fear of high buildings.
- Batrachophobia is the fear of reptiles.
- Belonephobia is the fear of needles.
- Blennophobia is the fear of slime.
- Bromidrosiphobia is the fear of body odour.
- Brontophobia (tonitrophobia, keraunophobia) is the fear of thunder.
- Carcinophobia is the fear of cancer.
- Cardiophobia is the fear of heart disease.
- Cheimaphobia is the fear of cold.
- Chionophobia is the fear of snow.
- Chrematophobia is the fear of money.
- Chromophobia is the fear of colour.
- Chronophobia is the fear of time.
- Chrysophobia (aurophobia) is the fear of gold.
- Cibophobia (sitophobia) is the fear of food.
- Claustrophobia is the fear of being closed in or of being in a confined space.
- Clinophobia is the fear of bed.
- Cnidophobia is the fear of insect stings.
- Coitophobia is the fear of coitus.
- Cometophobia is the fear of comets.
- Coprophobia is the fear of faeces.
- Coprostasophobia is the fear of constipation.
- Cremnophobia is the fear of precipices or steep places.
- Cryophobia is the fear of ice.
- Cyberphobia is the fear of computers.
- Cymophobia is the fear of waves.
- Cynophobia is the fear of dogs.
- Demophobia (ochlophobia) is the fear of crowds.
- Dermatosiophobia (dermatopathophobia) is the fear of skin disease.
- Dikephobia is the fear of justice.
- Doraphobia is the fear of fur.
- Dysmorphophobia is the fear that one's body, or any part of it, is repulsive or may become so.
- Ecclesiophobia is the fear of church.
- Eisoptrophobia is the fear of mirrors.
- Electrophobia is the fear of electricity.
- Eleutherophobia is the fear of freedom.
- Emetophobia is the fear of vomiting.
- Enetophobia is the fear of pins.
- Entomophobia is the fear of insects.
- Eosophobia is the fear of dawn.
- Epistolophobia is the fear of writing letters.
- Ergophobia is the fear of doing work.
- Erotophobia is the fear of sex.
- Erythrophobia is the fear of blushing.
- Febriphobia is the fear of fever.
- Francophobia (Gallophobia) is the fear of French people and things.
- Gametophobia is the fear of marriage.
- Gephyrophobia is the fear of bridges.
- Germanophobia (Teutophobia) is the fear of German people and things.
- Geumatophobia is the fear of taste.
- Graphophobia is the fear of writing.
- Gynophobia is the fear of women.
- Hadephobia (stygiophobia) is the fear of hell.
- Haemophobia is the fear of blood.
- Hagiophobia is the fear of saints.
- Hamartophobia is the fear of sin.
- Haptophobia is the fear of touch.
- Harpaxophobia is the fear of robbers.
- Hedonophobia is the fear of pleasure.
- Heliophobia is the fear of sun.
- Helminthophobia is the fear of worms.
- Hierophobia is the fear of priests.
- Hippophobia is the fear of horses.
- Hodophobia is the fear of travel.
- Homichlophobia is the fear of fog.
- Homophobia is the fear of homosexuals and homosexuality.
- Hormephobia is the fear of shock.
- Hydrophobia is the fear of drinking liquids.
- Hydrophobophobia is the fear of rabies.
- Hygrophobia is the fear of dampness.
- Hypegiaphobia is the fear of responsibility.
- Hypnophobia is the fear of sleep.
- Ichthyophobia is the fear of fish.
- Iconophobia is the fear of religious works of art.
- Ideophobia is the fear of ideas.
- Italophobia is the fear of Italian people and things.
- Judaeophobia is the fear of Jewish people and things.
- Kakorrhaphiaphobia is the fear of failure.
- Katagelophobia is the fear of ridicule.
- Kenophobia is the fear of voids.
- Kinetophobia is the fear of motion.
- Kleptophobia is the fear of stealing.
- Koniophobia is the fear of dust.
- Kopophobia is the fear of fatigue.
- Lalophobia (glossophobia, phonophobia) is the fear of speech.
- Leprophobia is the fear of leprosy.
- Limnophobia is the fear of lakes.
- Linonophobia is the fear of string.
- Logophobia is the fear of words.
- Lyssophobia (maniphobia) is the fear of insanity.
- Mastigophobia is the fear of beating.
- Mechanophobia is the fear of machinery.
- Metallophobia is the fear of metal.
- Microphobia is the fear of small things.
- Monophobia is the fear of being alone.
- Musicophobia is the fear of music.
- Musophobia is the fear of mice.
- Mysophobia is the fear of dirt.
- Necrophobia is the fear of death or dead bodies.
- Negrophobia is the fear of Black people and things.
- Neophobia is the fear of novelty.
- Nephophobia is the fear of clouds.
- Nosophobia is the fear of illness.
- Nyctophobia is the fear of night.
- Ochlophobia is the fear of crowds.
- Ochophobia is the fear of vehicles.
- Odontophobia is the fear of teeth.
- Oikophobia is the fear of home.
- Olfactophobia (osmophobia) is the fear of smell.
- Ommetaphobia is the fear of eyes.
- Onomatophobia is the fear of names.
- Ophidiophobia is the fear of snakes.
- Ornithophobia is the fear of birds.
- Paedophobia is the fear of children.
- Panophobia (pantophobia) is the fear of everything.
- Papaphobia is the fear of Pope.
- Parasitophobia is the fear of parasites.
- Pathophobia (nosophobia) is the fear of disease.
- Patroiophobia is the fear of heredity.
- Pediculophobia is the fear of lice.
- Peniaphobia is the fear of poverty.
- Phagophobia is the fear of swallowing.
- Pharmacophobia is the fear of drugs.
- Phasmophobia is the fear of ghosts.
- Philosophobia is the fear of philosophy.
- Phobophobia is the fear of fear.
- Photophobia is the fear of sunlight and well-lit places.
- Phronemophobia is the fear of thinking.
- Phthisiophobia is the fear of tuberculosis.
- Pinaciphobia (katastichophobia) is the fear of lists.
- Pogonophobia is the fear of beards.
- Poinephobia is the fear of punishment.
- Politicophobia is the fear of politics.
- Potamophobia is the fear of rivers.
- Potophobia is the fear of drink.
- Pteronophobia is the fear of feathers.
- Pyrophobia is the fear of fire.
- Rhabdophobia is the fear of magic.
- Russophobia is the fear of Russians.
- Satanophobia is the fear of Satan.
- Scabiophobia is the fear of scabies.
- Sciophobia is the fear of shadows.
- Scotophobia (nyctophobia) is the fear of the dark.
- Siderodromophobia is the fear of rail travel.
- Siderophobia is the fear of stars.
- Sinophobia is the fear of Chinese people and things.
- Spermophobia (bacteriophobia) is the fear of germs.
- Stasophobia is the fear of standing.
- Symmetrophobia is the fear of symmetry.
- Syphilophobia is the fear of venereal disease.
- Tachophobia is the fear of speed.
- Taphephobia is the fear of being buried alive.
- Technophobia is the fear of technology.
- Telephonophobia is the fear of telephones.
- Teratophobia is the fear of giving birth to a monster.
- Teratrophobia is the fear of monsters.
- Thalassophobia is the fear of sea.
- Thanatophobia is the fear of death.
- Thassophobia is the fear of idleness.
- Theophobia is the fear of God.
- Thermophobia is the fear of heat.
- Tocophobia is the fear of childbirth.
- Topophobia is the fear of places.
- Toxiphobia is the fear of poison.
- Traumatophobia is the fear of injury.
- Trichophobia is the fear of hair.
- Triskaidekaphobia is the fear of the number thirteen.
- Trypanophobia (vaccinophobia) is the fear of inoculation.
- Tyrannophobia is the fear of tyrants.
- Uranophobia is the fear of heaven.
- Xenophobia is the fear of foreigners.
- Zelotypophobia is the fear of jealousy.
- Zoophobia is the fear of animals.
Research Phobia
Phobophobia is the fear of fear.
Research Phobophobia
Phonophobia is the fear of noises or voices.
Research Phonophobia
Photoaugliaphobia is the fear of glaring lights.
Research Photoaugliaphobia
Photophobia is the fear of sunlight and well-lit places.
Research Photophobia
Phototherapy is the use of light in the treatment of disease. It is particularly effective in the treatment of seasonal depression caused by short winter days.
Research Phototherapy
The phrenic nerve originates in the upper half of the spinal cord, between the third and fifth cervical vertebrae, and extends to innervate the diaphragm muscle. It is responsible for transmitting the nerve impulses to the diaphragm which cause it to contract and expand, facilitating breathing.
Research Phrenic Nerve
Phronemophobia is the fear of thinking.
Research Phronemophobia
Phthiriophobia is the fear of lice.
Research Phthiriophobia
Phthisiophobia is the fear of tuberculosis.
Research Phthisiophobia
Phthsis is a name for any disease that causes wasting of the body, but the term is especially applied to pulmonary tuberculosis.
Research Phthisis
Physostigmine or eserine is an alkaloid extracted from the calabar bean. It is used for the relief of tetanus. It acts upon the third cranial nerve affecting the eye causing contraction of the pupil and is therefore used in the relief of ocular tension.
Research Physostigmine
Physotigmine is an alkaloid derived from the Calabar Bean. It has little effect on the cerebrum, but acts strongly on the vital centres in the medulla, and on the spinal cord where it produces feebleness of muscular movement, and slightly affects sensation. It was used in medicine where it was given to relieve tetanus and to antagonise the action of atropine and to relieve ocular tension.
Research Physotigmine
The pia mater is the thin, compact membrane covering the brain and spinal cord which carries blood vessels which supply the central nervous system.
Research Pia Mater
PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) is an inflammation of a woman's womb, Fallopian tubes, or ovaries as a result of infection with one of a group of bacteria.
Research PID
Pinaciphobia (katastichophobia) is the fear of lists.
Research Pinaciphobia
The function of the pineal body, or gland, within the midbrain is not fully understood. It is generally believed to be a vestigial sensory organ which is incompletely developed in the modern anatomy.
Research Pineal Body
Pinigerophobia is the fear of smothering.
Research Pinigerophobia
Pinta (mal de pinto) is a tropical infectious skin disease caused by the bacterium Treponema carateumand. It is characterised by the formation of papules and loss of pigmentation in circumscribed areas.
Research Pinta
Piramox is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
Research Piramox
The Piriformis is a muscle in the human hip.
Research Piriformis
The pisiform bone is one of the eight carpal bones which constitute each wrist. This bone, also called the lentiform, is so named because its shape resembles a bean or pea. It is located on the ulnar side of the wrist, in the proximal row of carpal bones.
Research Pisiform bone
The pituitary gland (or hypophysis),is a gland within the brain concerned with regulating growth and regulating other ductless glands. The pituitary gland , consists of three lobes, the anterior lobe, the intermediate lobe, which in primates is present for only a short part of the life span, and the posterior lobe. It is situated at the base of the brain and has been called the master controlling gland of the body. The anterior and the posterior lobes of the pituitary secrete different hormones. The anterior lobe secretes various hormones that stimulate the function of other endocrine glands, for example, adrenocorticotropic hormone, or ACTH, which stimulates the adrenal cortex; thyroid- stimulating hormone, or thyrotropin, known as TSH; follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulate the sex glands; and prolactin, which, with other special hormones, influences milk production of the mammary gland.
In addition, the anterior pituitary is the source of growth hormone, also called somatotropin, which promotes the development of body tissues, particularly of bone matrix and muscle, and influences carbohydrate metabolism. The anterior pituitary also secretes a hormone called melanocyte-stimulating hormone, which regulates the intensity of pigmentation in pigmented cells. In the 1970s scientists found that the anterior pituitary also produces substances called endorphins. These are peptides that act on the peripheral and central nervous systems to reduce sensitivity to pain. The hypothalamus, secretes an antidiuretic hormone named vasopressin, which is stored in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. The posterior lobe of the pituitary also stores another hormone secreted by the hypothalamus. This hormone, known as oxytocin, stimulates muscular contractions, especially of the uterus, and ejection of milk from lactating mammary glands. Not long ago it was found that secretion of three anterior pituitary hormones is under regulation of the hypothalamus: thyrotropin secretion is stimulated by thyrotropin-releasing factor (TRF), and luteinizing- hormone secretion by luteinizing-hormone releasing hormone (LHRH). Release of growth hormone is inhibited by somatostatin, which is also made by the pancreas.
Research Pituitary gland
The placenta is formed from the chorionic villi, small finger-like projections that cover the outer cells of the blastocyst. After implantation of the fertilized ovum, the chorionic villi burrow into the lining of the uterus seeking nourishment; those which have penetrated deepest erode some of the small uterine blood vessels and become bathed in the mother's blood. At this point the burrowing stops and the villi start to multiply and form branches. It is these villi which form the basis of the placenta. The placenta is responsible for the transfer of nourishment from the mother to the fetus, and of the waste products the fetus produces to the mother so that they can be excreted. Two layers of cells keep the fetal circulation in the placenta separate from the maternal blood. Through these cells the vital exchange function of the placenta takes place. Carbon dioxide, waste products and hormones pass from the fetus to the mother. Oxygen, nutrients and hormones are transferred in the opposite direction. The placenta also acts as a barrier to protect the fetus against potentially harmful substances.
Research Placenta
Placophobia is the fear of tombstones.
Research Placophobia
The plantar interossei of the foot is composed of three small muscles that help you bend your toes. The muscles originate from the third, fourth, and fifth metatarsal bones and insert on the proximal phalanges of the third, fourth, and fifth toes. The muscles are innervated by the lateral plantar nerve and supplied by the plantar artery.
Research Plantar Interossei
The plantaris (tibialis gracilis) is a very small muscle that lies between the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. It originates from the supracondylar ridge at the lower end of the femur (upper leg bone) and extends to a small area on the bottom of the calcaneum where it inserts with the Achillis tendon. The belly of the muscle is about three or four inches in length and tapers into a long, slender tendon that crosses between the two muscles of the calf and continues to the calcaneus. The plantaris is innervated by the tibial nerve and supplied by the posterior tibial artery. This muscle works with the gastrocnemius to extend the ankle if the foot is free and bend the knee if the foot is fixed, as when walking.
Research Plantaris
Plasma, made of about 92% water, is the blood's solvent. It is the liquid part of the blood, or blood minus cells, containing proteins, minerals, and salts. Its main components are the three proteins: albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, all of which are manufactured by the liver. These three proteins circulate in plasma and act as carriers for small molecules. Salts, minerals, sugars, fats, and proteins, all important nutrients, are transported through plasma. All of the chemicals needed by cells to stay alive are brought to them by the blood. At the same time, bicarbonates in the plasma act as a filter to remove poisonous waste to the kidneys. Albumin, the most plentiful, is similar to egg whites and gives blood its gummy texture. The globulins, three in number: alpha, beta, and gamma, transport certain proteins. They number half the albumin proteins found in plasma. Gamma globulins are the antibodies of the blood, giving immunity to disease. Only 3% of plasma is made up of fibrinogen. It is an important link in the chain of reactions that leads to blood clotting. It forms a web of fine protein fibres that bind blood cells together, creating a bridge over which injured tissue can rebuild itself while blood continues to flow underneath.
Research Plasma
Platelets are tiny specialized cells that are activated whenever blood clotting or repair to a vessel is necessary. Although they are often called cells, they are really fragments of other cells. They are made in bone marrow and are much smaller than red blood cells. A drop of blood contains some 15 million platelets. When a blood vessel is cut, platelets rush to the vessel and swell into odd, irregular shapes, grow sticky and clog at the cut, creating a plug. If the cut is too large for platelets, they send out signals to initiate clotting by releasing a hormone called serotonin, which stimulates blood vessels to contract thus reducing the flow of blood. Clotting is fundamentally a change of the soluble plasma protein fibrinogen into an insoluble, thread-like protein, called fibrin. More than a dozen factors are involved in this conversion. The fibrin strands mesh around the blood cells and then contract, squeezing a clear yellowish fluid called serum, and forming a solid clot. Clotting staunches bleeding and creates a
scaffold on which to build new tissue.
Research Platelets
The platysma (platysma myoides) muscle is a broad, thin sheet of muscle that originates in the pectoral and deltoid muscles and runs upward over the collar bone and inward along each side of the neck and in the skin near the mandible. It is innervated by the facial nerve (VII cranial nerve) and supplied by branches of the internal carotid artery. This muscle works to draw the lower lips and corner of the mouth sideways and down partially opening the mouth. It is used when expressing surprise, fear, or horror. It also increases the diameter of the neck as seen during intense breathing from fast running.
Research Platysma
Pleural effusion is used to indicate the accumulation of any fluid within the pleural space. An effusion is described as 'clear' 'blood-stained' or 'turbid' according to its appearance when it has been aspirated. It may occur from inflammation of the pleura, especially in tuberculosis; the quantity of fluid may be so great that a lung is completely compressed and the hemi-thorax is filled with fluid right up to the clavicle. Pleural effusion may occur in heart failure or be produced from inflammation below the diaphragm in such conditions as subphrenic abscess, liver abscess, perinephric abscess or cholecystitis. The presence of a pleural effusion is detected by clinical examination of the chest and its extent is demonstrated by x-ray. Apart from thoracic surgery, pleural effusion may occur in surgical patients as the result of post-operative pneumonia or more commonly from the inflammation produced by small infarcts in the lung. These infarcts themselves have arisen from pulmonary embolism. The presence of a pleural effusion is common if there is malignant disease in the thorax, either a primary carcinoma of the lung or secondary deposits from some other organ such as the breast or the stomach. It is not uncommon for such effusions, secondary to malignant disease, to need repeated aspiration.
Research Pleural Effusion
Plica (Plica polonica) also known as 'Polish plait', from its supposed origins in Poland, is a disease of the hair in which it becomes twisted and matted together.
Research Plica
Plicidentine is a form of dentine characterised by sinuous lines of structure shown in a transverse section of the tooth.
Research Plicidentine
Plutophobia is the fear of wealth.
Research Plutophobia
Pluviophobia is the fear of rain or of being rained on.
Research Pluviophobia
Pneumatiphobia is the fear of spirits.
Research Pneumatiphobia
pneumoconiosis is a term describing a group of occupational diseases supposedly caused by the inhalation of noxious dusts while at work.
Research Pneumoconiosis
Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung due to infection.
Research Pneumonia
Pnigophobia is the fear of choking or being smothered.
Research Pnigophobia
Pocrescophobia is the fear of gaining weight.
Research Pocrescophobia
Pogonophobia is the fear of beards.
Research Pogonophobia
Poinephobia is the fear of punishment.
Research Poinephobia
Polio (properly poliomyelitis, and also known as infantile paralysis) is caused by infection of the nervous system by a virus which gains entry through the nasopharynx and breeds in the intestinal mucous lining. It is expelled in the faeces. The blood stream carries the disease to the nervous system. There the virus attacks the cells lying in the grey matter of the brain and spinal cord, and in a case of very severe infection certain of these nerve cells may be entirely destroyed. This affection of the nerve cells leads to the characteristic symptom of the disease, namely muscular paralysis. A striking feature of the disease is its occurrence in young children, especially in those between the ages of two and four years. It may occur also in adolescence and early adult Life, but is rare after middle age. During an epidemic the virus may attack many people without giving rise to actual paralysis in any part of the body, and it has been found that over 50 per cent of the adult population have the special antibodies against the virus in the blood, showing that they have at some time suffered from a mild or unrecognised attack.
Confirmation of these facts was found in an American epidemic in the 1950s. Amongst twenty-two contacts of a case of infantile paralysis, fourteen were found to have the virus in the faeces. Fourteen of the twenty-two cases developed slight fever, but only one became paralysed. The disease is spread by human carriers of the virus, who may or may not be ill with the disease. The secretions of the nose and throat are infective during the first ten days of the illness, and spread of the disease mainly takes place from one person to another by what is known as 'droplet infection' (as in sneezing, coughing, talking, etc.), and by the common use of articles recently contaminated by these secretions. The virus may be present also in the faeces of a patient up to three months after his apparent recovery.
The disease may also be spread by infected water, milk or fruit, either by direct handling, or by flies carrying infection from lavatories or sewage. The disease is much more prevalent during the hotter months of the summer, and in the European climate it reaches its maximum frequency in August and September. The incubation period varies between six and ten days, the average being nine days. Infantile paralysis begins suddenly with fever lasting from one to five days, the temperature rising to 102 or 104 degrees. The child is usually flushed and drowsy, but may be very irritable, and vomiting and convulsions may occur. There is headache, with pain in the neck and back, and tenderness of the limbs. The symptoms at this stage are similar to those seen in many other acute infectious diseases, though special significance should be attached to severe pains in the limbs and tenderness of the muscles. In one to five days the characteristic signs of paralysis appear in one or more groups, of muscles. In older children and adults the paralysis is usually present within twenty-four hours of the onset. It develops rapidly and appears to have its maximum limit of distribution from the moment it appears. It is, in fact, usually much more widespread at the onset than it is destined to be permanently.
At first all four limbs may appear to be completely helpless, but after some days a rapid recovery occurs from much of the paralysis, so that only one limb may be finally affected. The narrowing down of the initial paralysis begins to appear after the end of the first week, and any muscle which is going to recover its power will have done so before the end of the first month. The muscles which are permanently paralysed become atrophied, or wasted, and in the course of time they tend to become contracted or shortened. This shortening may lead to considerable deformity of the part unless it is prevented by suitable treatment. The paralysis may affect any of the muscles of the body, but those of the leg are far more commonly involved than any others.
Research Polio
Poliosophobia is the fear of contracting poliomyelitis.
Research Poliosophobia
Politicophobia is the fear of politics.
Research Politicophobia
Polyarteritis nodosa is a rare disease, with inflammation of the small arteries and impaired circulation in the tissues that they supply, which may be anywhere in the body.
Research Polyarteritis nodosa
Polychromia is an excessive or abnormal pigmentation of the skin.
Research Polychromia
polycythaemia is a condition marked by an abnormal increase in the number of circulating red blood cells, leading to a thickening of the blood.
Research Polycythaemia
Polydactylism is the medical condition of a person having more than five fingers on each hand.
Research Polydactylism
Polymox is a brand name for Amoxicillin.
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Abbreviations
Medicine
