General Medical Terms

A monoclonal antibody that binds to cells that have the CD40 antigen on their surface, including cells from multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

The larger of two bones between the knee and ankle.

A Japanese formulation of seven Chinese herbs that is being studied as a treatment for cancer.

A flat, triangular bone on the upper back, the shoulder blade anchors many of the muscles that stabilize and move the arm.

A shunt is a surgically created pathway that redirects blood or other body fluid from its normal route to another location.

Any of a group of simple sugar molecules.

Examination of the lower colon using a sigmoidoscope, inserted into the rectum.

A substance that blocks signals passed from one molecule to another inside a cell.

A biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that is a sign of a normal or abnormal process, or of a condition or disease.

Silicone is a synthetic, chemically stable material used across many medical devices, not only as a breast implant component.

In radiation therapy, simulation is the planning session that uses imaging to map a patient's anatomy and precisely target the treatment area.

A sinus is any hollow cavity or channel within the body, a term applied to structures in the skull, heart, and blood vessels.

A monoclonal antibody that is being studied in the treatment of certain lymphoproliferative disorders and psoriasis.

SIRS describes a whole body inflammatory response identified through vital sign and blood count changes, seen with infection or with noninfectious injury.

A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer.

Beyond structural support, the skeleton stores minerals, produces blood cells within its marrow, and protects vital organs from injury.

A change in the heat and electricity passed through the skin by nerves and sweat.

A skin graft transplants skin from one body site to another, replacing tissue lost to injury, surgery, or disease.

A bandage-like patch that releases medicine into the body through the skin.

The process of applying pressure, friction, temperature change, or chemical substances to the skin to lessen or block a feeling of pain.