General Medical Terms

Inviable describes a pregnancy, fetus, or biological tissue that lacks the capacity to survive, develop, or function normally.

An action that is not made by choice.

Iodine is an essential trace element required to make thyroid hormone, obtained from foods such as iodized salt and seafood.

A form of poppy seed oil that contains iodine.

A substance that is being studied as a treatment for cancer and for primary systemic amyloidosis (a disease in which proteins are deposited in specific organs).

An ion is an atom or molecule carrying an electrical charge, essential to processes such as nerve signaling and muscle contraction.

A type of radiation made (or given off ) by x-ray procedures, radioactive substances, rays that enter the Earth's atmosphere from outer space, and other sources.

Radiation treatment aimed directly at a tumor during surgery.

On the same side of the body as another structure or a given point.

The iris is the pigmented ring around the pupil that adjusts pupil size to regulate how much light enters the eye.

Irradiated describes tissue, an object, or a sample that has been deliberately exposed to a controlled dose of radiation.

The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Side effects that are caused by toxic substances or something harmful to the body and do not go away.

A pancreatic cell that produces hormones (e.g., insulin and glucagon) that are secreted into the bloodstream.

An estrogen-like substance made by some plants, including the soy plant.

Having the same intensity as another object.

Isolation refers to separating a person from others, whether for infection control purposes or as a broader social or psychological state.

Isotopes are versions of the same element with differing neutron counts, some of which are used in medical imaging and treatment.

An isthmus is a narrow band of tissue connecting two larger anatomical structures, a term applied across several different organs.

A long, hollow needle with a tapered cutting edge on one end and a handle with a place to attach a syringe on the other end.