General Medical Terms

Appetite is the physiological drive to eat, regulated by hormones and the brain, and its loss or increase can signal an underlying medical condition.

Aqueous describes a solution, fluid, or preparation that is water-based, distinguishing it from oil-based or alcohol-based alternatives.

Arginine is an amino acid the body can make on its own that also serves as a building block for nitric oxide.

An aromatherapist is a trained practitioner who selects and applies essential oils to support relaxation and well being, usually alongside conventional care.

Aromatic describes a substance with a distinct, often pleasant odor, or in chemistry, a compound built around a specific ring structure.

The state of being alert and ready to respond, or waking from sleep.

A rare type of ovarian tumor in which the tumor cells secrete a male sex hormone.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring toxic element, historically used medicinally and as a poison, now also used in a targeted leukemia treatment.

The blocking of an artery by a clot of foreign material.

An x-ray of arteries.

Abnormal cells from the outer walls of the cervix (the lower, narrow end of the uterus).

Fluid withdrawn from a lump (often a cyst) or a nipple.

Removal of fluid or tissue through a needle.

Any device or technology that helps a disabled person.

Asthenia is a general lack of physical energy or strength that can accompany many acute and chronic medical conditions.

Astrocytes are star shaped glial cells that support, nourish, and help regulate the environment surrounding neurons in the brain.

An astrocytoma is a brain or spinal cord tumor originating from astrocytes, star shaped cells that support and nourish neurons.

An aggressive cancer of the central nervous system, kidney, or liver that occurs in very young children.

Atrasentan is an endothelin receptor antagonist now approved to reduce protein loss in the urine caused by a form of kidney disease.

An aggressive cancer of the central nervous system, kidney, or liver that occurs in very young children.