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PPS Medical Glossary
Written by Sal Capo & Edward Tenner, M.D.
Other useful dictionaries and drug information:
- - European languages
- Medical dictionary and drug information from the .
- Descriptions of drugs used to treat pemphigus and pemphigoid are found on our medications pages.
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AAD - American Academy of Dermatology
acantholysis - separation between layers of the epidermis; a pathology term to describe an erosion or blister.
ACE inhibitor - a class of drugs used to lower blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). These widely used antihyputensive medications are capable of inducing pemphigus especially enalapril and captopril.
acidophilus - bacteria that has been used to prevent yeast infections.
acid reflux - what happens when stomach acid gets past the valve separating the stomach from the esophagus. It can cause a burning sensation or pain behind the sternum (breast bone).
ACTH - See adrenocorticotropic hormone.
active immunity - the immune response triggered by a pathogen, (naturally acquired active immunity); or the immune response triggered by a vaccine, (called artificially acquired active immunity). The opposite of passive immunity.
acute - severe and brief in duration
adjuvant - 1. In immunology, it's an agent that enhances antibody production. 2. In pharmacology, it is an agent added to a drug to enhance it's therapeutic effect.
adjuvant therapy - when two complimentary treatments are used together.
adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) - a hormone produced in the pituitary gland which is a peptide. It stimulates the cortex of the adrenal glands to secrete glucocorticosteroid hormones. This hormone can be obtained from certain animals and used to treat arthritis, allergies, skin diseases and other disorders. Also called adrenocorticotropin or corticotropin.
adrenocorticotropin - See adrenocorticotropic hormone.
adrenal gland - one of a pair of small glands which sit on top of the kidneys. These glands produce hormones which help control the heart rate, blood pressure, the way the body uses food, and other vital functions. The adrenal is made up of an outer wall (the cortex) and an inner portion (the medulla).
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adrenal cortex regulates the levels of sodium, potassium and other minerals in the blood by secreting steroid (cortisone-related) hormones.
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adrenal medulla secrets adrenaline and noradrenaline. Adrenaline is secreted in response to low glucose levels in the blood, exercise and/or stress; it breaks down glycogen to produce glucose (sugar); causes fatty acids to be released of from fat tissue; dilates arteries in muscle tissue and raises the pulse.
adult-onset diabetes - See diabetes.
agranulocytosis (granulocytopenia or granulopenia) - A condition caused when granulocyte type white blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be generated. This leaves the patient open to serious infection.
amino acids - small organic molecules possessing both carboxyl and amino groups that are the building blocks of proteins.
anabolic steroids - Synthetic derivatives of testosterone which enhance muscle and bone growth. Used to treat uncontrolled weight loss in wasting diseases. The oral or injectable type of steroid some athletes use illegally to build muscles and boost athletic performance. These drugs have been shown to increase the risk of hepatic (liver) cancer, elevated cholesterol levels, blood clots leading to heart attack or stroke. Users sharing needles or using nonsterile injection techniques have a much higher risk of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and C. Some men become feminized (i.e. grow breasts) while some women become masculinized.
angiotensin converting enzyme - See ACE inhibitor.
antibiotic - A chemical substance often made from a mold or bacterium which is used to kill bacteria or other harmful organisms.
antibody - a molecule that is an immunoglobulin produced by a B cell in response to a specific antigen. The antibody can bond with the antigen as part of the immune response.
antidepressant - a medication used to reduce anxiety without reducing mental clarity. Three types are:
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Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).
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Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This group includes paroxetine (Paxil), fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline ( Zoloft).
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Tricyclic antidepressants are also used for the control of chronic pain.
antigen - a molecule that is recognized by the immune system as foreign or toxic and elicits an immune response. Antigens include bacteria, viruses, chemicals and the tissue of a transplanted organ. If the antigen is part of the same organism, it is called a self antigen.
antihistamine - a drug which blocks the action of histamine, used to treat allergies, colds and hypersensitive reactions. Some antihistamines are used as sleep aids or to relieve nausea or itching.
atrophy - a deterioration of skin or muscle tissue caused by disease, lack of use, or injury. See also lesion.
autoimmune disease - an immunological disease caused by the immune system attacking the body's own organs or tissues. Autoimmune disease strikes one in every five Americans. When the immune system attacks the joints, it is called arthritis; when it attacks myelin (the insulation of the nerves) it is Multiple Sclerosis; when it attacks desmogleins (the "glue" that holds the skin together), it is a blistering disease such as pemphigoid or pemphigus.
autoimmune bullous skin diseases - Autoimmune diseases where autoantibodies attack adhesion molecules of skin and mucous membranes causing lesions (blisters). Two types are pemphigus and pemphigoid.
avascular necrosis (AVN) - An uncommon degenerative condition of the hip joint which causes pain when standing or moving. Many AVN patients need hip replacement operation.
AVN - See avascular necrosis.
bacteria - The smallest microscopic vegetable organism, belonging to the Algae class. They multiply profusely by fission and spores. Some are active agents in fermentation while others cause certain infectious diseases.
basal layer - The lowest layer of a multilayered tissue, such as the lowest layer of the epidermis. See illustration of the skin.
B cell - A type of lymphocyte which develops in the bone marrow and produces antibodies that mediate immunity. Also called B lymphocyte. See also cell and T cell.
biopsy - The removal of a small piece or sample of tissue or organ for medical examination. Biopsies containing both healthy and diseased tissue in the same sample are often helpful in establishing a diagnosis.
blister - See lesion.
BMD - Bone Mineral Density test that reflects how dense or strong bones are.
bronchus - either of the two air passages which connect the the trachea (windpipe) to the lungs.
buccal mucosa - The moist covers of the inside of the cheeks and lips.
bulla - See lesion.
bullous disease - Any disease causing blisters on the skin, e.g. pemphigus and pemphigoid.
calcium - The element present in teeth and bones which is also essential for neurotransmission, muscle contraction and proper heart function. Insufficient calcium may lead to osteoporosis and other health problems.
candidiasis - An over abundance of naturally occurring yeast affecting the skin, mouth (thrush), esophagus, gastrointestinal tract, vagina (vaginitis), and other parts of the body. Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medications. Acidopholous in supplements or in yogurt with live cultures, is often helpful to keep yeast in check when the immune system is suppressed. See also yeast infection.
carbohydrate - One of three classes of food for humans and animals. (The other two are proteins and fats). "Carbs" are broken down into glucose, the primary source of energy for the body, especially the brain and the nervous system. They come in two basic forms: complex and simple. Simple carbohydrates are sugars and easily identified because they are sweet. Except for fruits and vegetables, most simple carbohydrates do not have much additional nutritional value and provide energy only for a short time. Complex carbohydrates are found in whole grain products like whole wheat bread, brown rice, pasta, and beans. They are more nutritious, provide a steady, longer lasting energy and contain dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. None the less, patients on steroids are urged to maintain a low carbohydrate diet. See nutrition.
cataract - A clouding of the lens of the eye which causes blurry vision and an increased sensitivity to light and glare.
CBC - Complete blood count.
CDC - Center for Disease Control and Prevention is recognized as the lead federal agency for for developing and applying disease prevention and control, environmental health, and health promotion and education activities designed to improve the health of the people of the United States. It is located in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
cell - The basic structural and functional unit of life. Within the cell is a nucleus and cytoplasm. The cytoplasm contains organelles that dictate how the cell behaves. The nucleus contains the genetic material, (See DNA.) The cell membrane surrounds the cell and on its surface has receptors which have unique properties relating to function and identity. There are 100 trillion cells in the body. See also B cell and T cell.
cell-mediated immunity (CMI) - The part of the immune system which reacts to foreign material with specific white blood cells including killer cells, lymphocytes and macrophage. See humoral immune response.
cellular immunity - See humoral immune response.
centigrade - The scale used primarily outside the U.S. to measure heat as in a thermometer. Water freezes at 0°C and boils at 100°C. See Fahrenheit.
chronic - A chronic condition is one that lasts for a long time; (as opposed to acute).
clinical - Based on actual observation and treatment, as opposed to theoretical.
clinical remission - See remission.
CMI - See cell mediated immunity.
collagen - a fibrous protein in the skeleton and cartilage which supplies strength and flexibility. It becomes glue or gelatin when boiled.
conjunctivitis - Inflammation of the conjuntiva.
contraindication - a situation in which a particular treatment or medication should not be used.
cornea - See eye.
corticoid - See corticosteroid.
corticosteroid - (also known as steroids, adrenocortical hormone [ACTH], or corticoid.) A hormone produced in the adrenal glands naturally and also manufactured by man. Some of the uses of man-made corticosteroids are: to reduce the immune response; as an anti-inflammatory drug; to replace some or all of natural steroids; for hormone replacement therapy (HRT); and to reduce rejection of an implanted organ. Man-made steroids include prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone and dexamethasone. Steroids have a long list of serious side effects when used for extended periods of time (over six months), and especially at levels over 20 milligrams.
A. glucocorticoids (such as cortisone and cortisol) effect glucose levels, blood pressure and muscle strength; regulate protein, carbohydrate, lipid and nucleic acid [metabolism]; helps to control salt and water balance and raise blood sugar levels by affecting insulin.
B. mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone). a mineralocorticoid is a steroid that acts mainly on the metabolism of sodium and potassium.
For information about prednisone, including side effects. See Medications.
See also anabolic steroids.
corticotropin - See adrenocorticotropic hormone.
Cushing's Syndrome or Cushingoid Syndrome - A group of symptoms caused by excessive levels of cortisol hormone or corticosteroids. Symptoms vary but may include puffiness in the face (moonface), a so called "buffalo hump," weight gain, physical weakness, hypertension, thinning and/or bruising of the skin, diabetes and osteoporosis. Women may cease to menstruate.
cutaneous - Relating to the skin.
cytokines - Proteins secreted by cells involved in regulating cellular activity particularly withing the immune system.
deoxyribonucleic acid - See DNA.
depression - A medical condition marked by prolonged feelings of despair, loss of self-esteem, apathy and possibly urges or attempts to commit suicide. It may be organic, situational or caused by drugs such as prednisone. See "depression" for a more detailed explanation.
dermis - See skin.
desmoglein - Desmosomes are the sites of attachment between adjacent cells. The transmembrane proteins that form these attachments are desmogleins.
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desmoglein 1 (dsg 1) is more common in the upper layers of the epidermis and autoantibodies against it are seen in pemphigus foliaceus, resulting in relatively shallow lesions.
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desmoglein 3 (dsg 3) is found mainly in the basilar and suprabasilar portion of the epidermis and in mucous membranes. Autoimmune attacks in the skin results in the deeper blisters found in pemphigus vulgaris.
desmoplaquin - A protein component of the desmosome, which is an area along the outside of an epithelial cell that is in very close contact with another epithelial cell. desmosome - A type of junction that attaches one cell to its neighbor. One of a number of differentiated regions which occur, for example, where the cytoplasmic membranes of adjacent epithelial cells are closely apposed. It consists of a circular region of each membrane together with associated intracellular microfilaments and an intercellular material which may include, for example, mucopolysaccharides.
DEXA scan - the most accurate of several Bone Mineral Density (BMD) tests. A specialized, low-radiation x-ray which is used to diagnose osteoporosis. dexamethasone - See corticosteroid.dextrose - See glucose. diabetes mellitus- a metabolic disease in which the control of sugar is abnormal. Sugar is elevated in the blood and excreted abnormally in the urine. (See Basics of diabetes.)
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Type 1 diabetes is the same as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. It is an autoimmune disease and often seen in young people.
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Type 2 diabetes is the same as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. This is the most common type of diabetes and usually appears in patients over the age of 40.
differential diagnosis - diseases or conditions which is similar to the disease or condition being discussed.
direct immunoflourescent test. See immunofluorescent test.
diuretic - A drug used to increase the output of urine.
DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid - One of two nucleic acids in the cell, (the other is RNA). DNA carries the genetic information (genes) which determines the structure and behavior of cells. DNA is the "blueprint" of a particular human being. It is shaped like a double-helix (spiral ladder). It is present in the 23 pairs of chromosomes, (one chromosome in each pair supplied by each parent). Defective genes can cause birth defects or transmit unwanted traits and diseases from one generation to the next. Damage to DNA is believed to play a pivotal role in aging and cancer.
double blind - A procedure used in drug trials where neither the patient or the attending physician know if the medicine being tested on the patient is the actual drug, or a placebo.
ELISA - See Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay.
endemic - Not widespread but common among a certain type or group of people, or a local region.
endocrinology - The field of medicine involving the diagnosis and management of hormonal conditions and related diseases in patients.
endocytosis - The cellular engulfing of large molecules or particulate matter by localized regions of the plasma membrane or cell wall.
ENT - See otolaryngologist.
enzyme - A protein that acts as a catalyst in mediating and speeding a specific chemical reaction.
Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay - This is a sensitive and highly specific method to detect specific antibodies. There are ELISA tests for desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 that can be used to diagnose and follow the activity of pemphigus vulgaris and foliaceus.
epidemic - Affecting a large number of people or a wide area, often rapidly. As opposed to endemic which is more localized.
epithelium - The tissue which covers the internal and external surfaces of the body.
epitope - A small part of a protein which is an 
antigen. If an antibody was the key and an antigen the lock, an epitope would be the unique shape of the key which fits into the lock. This union triggers the immune response.
erosion - See lesion.
erythema - is the redness caused by the dilation of small blood vessels. It is usually reversible.
erythrocytes - See red blood cell.
etiology - The science that deals with the causes or origin of disease. Aetiology is the preferred spelling in some countries.
excoriation - See lesion.
exudate - Material that escaped from veins and capillaries and was deposited in or on tissue. It contains protein, cells or cell debris and usually a sign of inflammation. In contrast to transudate which a liquid that contains little content.
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cornea - The clear, protective covering at the front of the eye.
iris - The colored part of the eye which controls the amount of light entering the eye.
pupil - The black opening in the center of the iris through which light passes.
lens - The transparent structure behind the iris that focuses light on the back of the interior eye.
retina - The layer at the back of the eye which senses light and creates impulses that are funneled to the optic nerve.
sclera - The white of the eye.
macula - A small central area of the retina which contains highly sensitive cells which permit seeing fine detail.
optic nerve - The "wire" that connects the retina to the visual cortex of the brain where impulses are turned into images.
vitreous humor - A transparent, jelly-like liquid that fills the center of the eye ball.
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conjunctiva - (Not marked)The name for the mucous membrane covering of the exposed surface of the ball of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid.
fats - One of the three main classes of foods (the others are proteins and carbohydrates) for humans and animals. Fats stores energy and aids in the retention of body heat. Fats help the body metabolize some vitamins and helps keep the skin healthy. Another name for fat is lipid. Fats are also used in some food preparation or cooking. In food fats fall into two categories, saturated and unsaturated. Saturated fats come primarily from animal products. They are solid at room temperature and tend to raise cholesterol levels. Butter, lard and palm oil are examples of saturated fats. Unsaturated fats include monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. This category comes from plant oils such as olive, peanut, corn and soybean. They are liquid at room temperature. See nutrition.
Fahrenheit - The scale used primarily in the U.S. to measure heat as in a thermometer. Water freezes at 32°F and boils at 212°F. See centigrade.
FDA - Federal Drug Administration. The branch of the U.S. Government responsible for monitoring the safety and effectiveness of medications.
fissure - See lesion.
foam cell - A macrophage containing lipids.
fungus - An organism that resembles a plant but does not have leaves, roots or chlorophyll. It gets its nutrition either by living as a parasite on living organisms, or as a saprophyte on dead organic matter.
gastritis - An upset stomach.
gene - See DNA.
generic - a drug called by it's chemical name. The generic name for Imuran is azithioprine. Proteins secreted by cells involved in regulating cellular activity particularly withing the immune system.
genetic markers - gene which indicate a particular trait or possibility of disease or mutation.
granulocyte - A type of white blood cell that includes neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.
glaucoma - A disease of the eye caused by damage to the optic nerve. It is usually related to increased intraocular pressure. Damage to the optic nerve causes a loss of vision and can, if untreated, lead to blindness. Some people called steroid responders, will develop high intraocular pressure when on prednisone.
glucocorticosteroids - See corticosteroids.
glucosamine - A molecule derived from the glucose (a sugar) found in the blood, cartilage and elsewhere. Glucosamine is sometimes given to patients for relief of joint pain and stiffness. It is often marketed as a cartilage rebuilder or a cure for arthritis, but there is little or no evidence to support such claims.
glucose - Formerly known as dextrose. The body manufactures glucose, a simple sugar monosaccharide from protein, fat and--mainly--carbohydrates. It is the main source of the body's energy.
granulation tissue - New skin formed in a healing wound.
granulocytopenia - See agranulocytosis.
granulopenia - See agranulocytosis.
Grenz zone - A narrow area of uninvolved dermis between the epidermis and a dermal inflammatory or neoplastic infiltrate. In German grenz means border.
HLA - See human leukocyte antigens
histology - in anatomy, the study of tissue under a microscope.
hormone - A chemical substance which is made in one organ or part of the body and transported by the blood to another organ or part which it stimulates to activity. The endocrine glands which include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, ovaries, testes, and certain parts of the gastrointestinal tract, produce a variety of hormones. An imbalance in the levels of hormones can cause illness. Prednisone has a suppressive effect on the production of many hormones.
HPA - See hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis
human leukocyte antigens (HLA) - A set of genes involved in the presentation of antigenic peptides to the immune system. This role makes them pivotal in the etiology of autoimmunity and transplant rejection. The Major Histocompatibility Complex, (MHC), encodes two major classes of HLA molecules, class I and class II. HLA class I molecules (the endogenous pathway) represent peptides derived from intracellular proteins while class II molecules (the exogenous pathway) present peptides from extracellular body fluids. It has been discovered that in certain autoimmune diseases certain HLA genes are ore common than in the general population. It is thought that the presence of these gene that control receptors on the surface of certain cells is involved in the etiology of many auto immune diseases. For example, the HLA class II gene DRB1*0402 is seen in 90% of Ashkenazi Jews with pemphigus vulgaris.
humoral immune response - The immune system response that produces antibodies, B cells. It is chiefly a response bacteria. See cell-mediated immunity
hyercalciuria - excessive calcium in the urine.
hyperkeratosis - a normal or abnormal increase in the thickness of stratum corneum by keratinocytes.
hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis - The hypothalamus and the pituitary and adrenal glands are a major part of the neuroendocrine system that controls the body's reaction to stress.
idiopathic - a disease for which there is no known cause.IgA, IgG, IgM and IgE - See immunoglobulin.
in vitro - Literally means "in glass." Meaning in the laboratory, as opposed to in vivo.
in vivo - Literally means "in life." Meaning in a living organism, as opposed to in vitro.
immune response - The body's reaction to a foreign substance.
immune system - The system that protects the body from infectious and foreign substances. It has two major components. Proteins secreted by cells involved in regulating cellular activity particularly withing the immune system.
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The innate immune system reacts very quickly. It is composed of cells like macrophasges and natural killer cells and chemicals.
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The adaptive immune system reacts more slowly, especially when first dealing with a specific antigen. It's components are B cells, plasma cells and their antibodies, the various T-cells and the various chemicals they secrete. It protects our bodies against specific invaders. When the immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy tissue, autoimmune disease results. There are many forms of autoimmune disease. In the case of pemphigus and pemphigoid, the immune system produces autoantibodies against desmoglein proteins which damages the attachments between skin cells and leads to blister formation. See: How the immune system works.
immunofluorescent test - A technique to detect the presence and localize the binding of autoantibodies.
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direct immunofluorescent test (DIF) a skin biopsy is treated with immunofluorescent antibodies specific for anti-IgG, anti-IgM, anti-IgA, anti-C3, and anti-fibrinogen. The presence and location of the staining helps differentiate pemphigus from pemphigoid.
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indirect immunofluorescent test (IDIF) the patient's serum is treated and placed on monkey esophagus and then examined for the presence and location of fluorescing autoantibodies. When viewed through a microscope, pemphigus and pemphigoid have distinct patterns.
immunoglobulin - The different classes of proteins comprising antibodies, e.g. IgA, IgG, IgM, & IgE. Each type has a different structure and function. For example, IgA antibodies are found in saliva, tears, respiratory and alimentary tract secretions and protect against viruses and bacteria. IgE is involved in allergic reactions like hayfever.
immunosuppressant - Any of a number of drugs which reduce or eliminate the body's ability to make an immune response. Azathioprine, cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate mofetil are examples of immunosuppressants.
indirect immunoflourescent test - See immunoflourescent test.
informed consent - permission given by a patient to a doctor for a particular treatment after the patient understands the benefits and risks of the treatment.
intertriginous - where skin surfaces touch or rub as in the groin or under breasts.
intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) - a sterile solution made from the blood of thousands of people. This solution of concentrated antibodies is given intravenously as a treatment for a number of diseases including pemphigus and pemphigoid. It is believed to work by decreasing the levels of autoantibodies.
IVIG - See intravenous immunoglobulin.
jugular veins - The large veins of the neck.
junk DNA - The 90% of DNA which has an unknown function.
keratin - the type of protein found in the epidermis, hair, finger- and toenails and the horns of animals.
keratosis - a thickening of the upper most layer of skin that makes the skin feel stiff or hard.
keratitis - Inflammation of the cornea.
killed vaccine - See inactive vaccine.
lesion - an erosion or blister of the skin. See chart below.
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For photographs from the University of Washington which illustrate the terms below, PRIMARY TERMS:
SECONDARY TERMS:
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lethargy - the medical term for fatigue.
leukocytes - See white blood cell.
lichenification - See lesion.
lipids - a large class of organic compounds which serve as the basis of cell membranes and as a form of fuel storage. Lipids include steroids, fats, oils and waxes.
lymph - a transparent, yellowish liquid that helps prevent infection, by brings beneficial substances, including white blood cells where needed in the body, and caring away waste matter, such as harmful bacteria.
lymphatic system- a system of vessels and small organs (nodes), which carry lymph fluid.
lymphocyte - type of white blood cell which forms in lymph glands, spleen, thymus, or marrow. See white blood cell.
lymph node - small organs in the body which produce white blood cells needed to fight infection.
macrophage - an amoeba-like cell which moves through tissues, engulfing and destroying dead cells or bacterium.
macule - See lesion.
Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) - molecules that are on the surface of cells and represent transplant antigens. It is the response of T cells to these antigens that causes problems in organ transplantation. Specific MHC antigens are related to certain autoimmune diseases.
MAOI - Monoamine oxidase inhibitor. See antidepressants.
Memory cell - Either a T cell or B cell that has been exposed to a particular antigens and can therefore respond more quickly when the immune system encounters the same antigen.
metaplasia - The change of one type of tissue to another, such as metaplastic ossification seen in certain cutaneous tumors.
methylprednisolone - See corticosteroid.
MHC - See major Histocompatibility Complex.
microbe - a virus or bacterium any tiny living, usually disease causing, organism such as bacterium or a virus.
microspheres - minute spheres capable of carrying medications through organic tissue.
milligram - One thousandth of a gram. Abbreviated as mg.
minerals - A naturally occurring, solid, inorganic substance having a specific chemical composition and characteristic crystalline structure, color, and hardness. An element such as calcium, iron, potassium, sodium, or zinc, that is essential to the nutrition of humans, animals, and plants. See nutrition.
molecule - Two or more atoms contained together by covalent bonds. Includes chemical substances which are the building blocks of cells such as proteins, sugars and fats.
morbidity - rate of disease in a population or the harmful effects caused by a treatment
mortality - In medicine, it is the rate of death.
mucocutaneous - Relating to mucous membranes and skin. One of the clinical types of pemphigus vulgaris with mainly skin and scalp involvement and autoantibodies against desmoglein 1 and 3.
mucosal - Relating to mucous membranes. Mucosal pemphigus is a type of pemphigus vulgaris with mainly oral involvement and autoantibodies only against desmoglein 3.
mucous membrane - The moist lining of the mouth, nose, eyes (conjunctiva), intestine, vagina, penis and anus.
mutation - a change or new feature in inheritable traits.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) - A component of the National Institutes of Health, NIAID which conducts and supports research designed to treat and prevent infectious, immunologic and allergic diseases worldwide.
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH (NIH) - the National Institutes of Health produces or finances much of the world's most important medical research. The 27 separate institues make up one of eight agencies of the Public Health Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The goal of NIH research is "to acquire new knowledge to help prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat disease and disability, from the rarest genetic disorder to the common cold."
necrosis - The localized death of living cells from infection or an interrupted blood supply. Also known as gangrene.
neoplasm - A tumor or new growth of abnormal tissue in animals or plants.
neutrophils - See white blood cell.
NIAID - See The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
NIH - See: NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH.
Nikolsky's sign - a clinical test helpful to diagnose pemphigus vulgaris. Pressure is placed by a finger on the blister and firmly rubbed sideways. If the blister enlarges sideways, pemphigus vulgaris is suspected. Nodule - a palpable, solid, round or ellipsoidal lesion. Usually more than 1cm. in diameter, but may be smaller. May be deep in the dermis or subcutis, or be superficial.
nucleic acid - A group of organic substances in chromosomes which are the essential element in utilizing hereditary information. See DNA and RNA.
nutrient - Sources of energy used by the body either proteins, carbohydrates or fats.
ocular - pertaining to the eye.
off label - Preferring to the use of one medication for purposes other than the one the FDA approved.
oncologist - A doctor who treats cancer.
organism - any living thing including animals, plants, bacteria, or a fungi.
osteoporosis - An condition where the bones become abnormally brittle, with a related increased risk of fracture, due to the loss of minerals, particularly calcium. Most common in postmenopausal women and patients on long-term steroid therapy. See osteoporosis article.
OTC - Abbreviations for "Over the counter," as in medications you can buy without a prescription.
otolaryngologist - also called an ENT, specializes in treating the ear, nose and throat.
pandemic - Worldwide
papule - See lesion.
passive immunity - the immune response triggered by antibodies or antiserum received from another person.
patch - See lesion.
pathogen - A virus, bacterium, fungus or microorganism which produces a disease.
pathology - the study of the nature of disease, especially abnormal changes in structure and function of the body caused by disease.
PDR - A common abbreviation for the "Physicians’ Desk Reference" a book doctors and the public use to reference information on various medications.
pemphigoid - One of the two classes of autoimmune bullous skin diseases (pemphigus is the other). Two main types: bullous pemphigoid (BP) and cicatricial pemphigoid (CP), which is also called ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, cicatricial pemphigoid, or mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP).
pemphigus - One of the two classes of autoimmune bullous skin diseases (bullous pemphigoid is the other). There are three major subsets - pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus, and paraneoplastic pemphigus. An endemic form of pemphigus foliaceus is called Fogo Selvagem. The rare variants include pemphigus herpetiformis and IgA pemphigus.
peptide - A molecule derived from two or more amino acids. In the human body they can be obtained by the partial digestion of proteins. See also polypeptide.
phagocyte - a cell which destroys microbes and other foreign matter by ingesting it. Part of the immune system.
placebo - A substance reported to be a medicine but has no genuine medicinal value. Placebos are used in double-blind studies where half the patients are given a new drug and half are given a placebo but neither the patients nor doctors know which is which. See placebo.
placebo effect - This is a phenomena where patients report a lessening of symptoms although the substance they thought was medicine (a placebo) has no medicinal properties. Depending on the condition, as many of 30% of patients may respond to a placebo. There is some evidence that physiological changes in patients may result from just the belief that a medicine is being applied.
plaque nodule - See lesion.
polymorphism - The variation in the types of cells, particularly used in terms of inflammatory infiltrates.
polypeptide - A peptide containing 10 to over 100 amino acids.
potassium - A mineral important to regulating blood pressure, water content in cells, nerve transmissions, heart rhythm, muscle contraction and digestion. Insufficient potassium can cause muscle cramps and fatigue. Bananas, leafy green vegetables, citrus and cantaloupe contain high amounts of potassium. See nutrition.
prednisolone - See corticosteroid.
prednisone - See corticosteroid.
prognosis - The probable forecast of the course of a disease; the patient's likelihood of recovery.
protein - One of three classes of food for humans and animals. (The other two are carbohydrates and fats). Any of numerous naturally occurring complex combinations of amino acids. Proteins are a necessary component of all living cells because they are essential growth and repair of tissue. They include many substances including enzymes and hormones. They are found in meat, fish, milk, eggs and legumes. See nutrition.
psychosis - A metal illness severe enough to interfere with the ability to function in society. Symptoms may include sensory or visual hallucinations and/or paranoia. Drug induced psychosis can be, but is rarely caused by, drugs including prednisone. See Mental Notes for a more detailed explanation.
pustule - See lesion.
receptor - A site on the surface of a cell which, in a lock and key fashion, fits into a complementary site on another cell or protein, as in the binding of an antibody to an antigen.
red blood cells or erythrocytes - In mammals, a red blood cell transports oxygen to the cells of the body and removes carbon dioxide. It lacks a nucleus and is also known as a red corpuscle. Red blood cells make up the vast majority of cells in the otherwise clear solution which is blood. A normal amount of hemoglobin, or red protein pigment (that which gives blood it's red color when exposed to air), must be present in the blood to effectively combine with oxygen. Anemia is the medical term for an insufficient amount of red blood cells.
remission - In pemphigus and pemphigoid the exact meaning of this word is unclear even in medical literature. For some it means disappearance of signs and symptoms of disease even if on medication. Some call that "clinical remission" and reserve the word "remission" for someone off all medications and no evidence of the disease.
retina - See eye.
resorption - the absorption of material released after previously being absorbed.
ribonucleic acid - See RNA.
RNA or ribonucleic acid - One of the two important nucleic acids found in a cell. They are instrumental in the transmission of genetic information and protein synthesis. They work in concert with DNA.
salt split skin - Skin incubated in salt splits between the dermis and epidermis. Used in testing to differentiate diseases.
scale - See lesion.
scar - See lesion.
sclera - See eye.
sepsis - Serious pus-producing in the blood or tissues. May lead to death from organ failure.
serum - the clear liquid portion of blood.
skin - The largest organ of the human body comprising 16% of of body weight. For an illustration and more information, click here.
SSRI - Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. See antidepressant.
stem cells - Stem cells are primitive, undifferentiated cells which have the ability to reproduce and become any cell, tissue or organ and thus have the ability to replace damaged or diseased body parts without fear of rejection by the body. Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, juvenile-onset diabetes and spinal cord injuries are only a few of the areas in which this new science is expected to make dramatic progress due to stem cells. Multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus are autoimmune diseases presently undergoing research as well. steroids - See corticosteroids.
stratum corneum - See skin.
subcutaneous - Below the skin.
systemic - Involving the entire system or body. Medications taken orally are systemic because they are distributed to the entire body by the blood.
T cell - A type of lymphocyte involved in cell mediated immunity that matures under the influence of the thymus. Comprised of three subsets: killer T cells, helper T cells, and suppressor T cells.
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killer (cytotoxic) T cells (CD8+) destroy cells marked by antibodies or expressing specific antigens.
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helper T cells (CD4+) Responsible for the production of cytokines necessary to stimulate an immune response proteins (antigens). There are two general types: Th1 relates to delayed hypersensitivity and TH2 relates to stimulating B cell growth.
See also cell, B cell and memory cell.
thrush - See yeast infection.
tissue - A group elementary cells that have a similar form and function. For example, all the cells that make up a muscle are muscle tissue.
titer - A measurement of the concentration of antibodies in the blood.
topical - Applied directly to the surface of area to be treated, as when a cream is applied to a blister. This tends to localize the treatment and minimize side effects.
transudate -a plasma derived liquid substance that has passed through a membrane or been exuded from tissue. In contrast to exudate which is material high in content such as cells or other solid material, transudate has little solid content.
transdermal - the act of entering through the skin usually regarding medicine such as in a nicotine patch used to quit smoking.
tricyclic antidepressants. See antidepressants.
type I diabetes - See diabetes.
type II diabetes - See diabetes.
ulcer - See lesion.
ultraviolet radiation - Is an invisible portion of the energy originating from the sun. It is broken down into three types, ultraviolet A (UV-A), ultraviolet B (UV-B) and ultraviolet C (UV-C). UV-C would be the most harmful but it can not get through the Earth's atmosphere. UV-B's effects are stronger than UV-A, and is more likely to cause sunburn, but both can cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancer, especially UV-B. In proper amounts, UV rays triggers vitamin D production, a necessity for proper bone and teeth growth.
UV radiation or UV-A, UV-B, UV-C - See ultraviolet radiation
vaccine - A medicinal preparation of a dead or weakened bacteria, viruses or serum to stimulate antibodies against a pathogen.
vaginitis - See yeast infection.
vesticle - See lesion.
vesicle - See lesion.
virulent - aggressively harmful.
virus - A submicroscopic organism or highly complex molecule which infects humans, animals and plants and titer - A measurement of the concentration of antibodies in the bloody multiplying itself causes disease. The common cold, flu, chicken pox and AIDS are caused by viruses.
vitamin - Any of a number of organic or synthetic substances essential in minute quantities by the body to regulate metabolism and maintain health. They are produced within the body, taken from natural foods or taken in tablets called vitamin supplements. See nutrition.
WBC - White blood count. A lab test to determine the amount of white blood cells. Note: A higher than normal white blood cell count (WBC) usually indicates a serious bacterial infection. A low count means the body may not be able to fend off infection.
wheal - See lesion.
white blood cell or leukocyte - One of the cells that combats infection. There are several types of white blood cells but the most common are lymphocytes and neutrophils.
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lymphocytes originate in the spleen, thymus gland or lymph nodes. Those that come from bone marrow are called B cells and those from thymus are called T cells. (See T cell.) Lymphocytes differentiate foreign substances from bacteria or viruses and produce antibodies to attack them. This may take days or weeks.
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neutrophils originate in the bone marrow to fight bacterial infection. They travel in the blood stream until they find infected tissue.
yeast infection - Patients with suppressed immune systems often experience an overgrowth of normally beneficial yeast. While Candida yeast, particularly Candida albicans, are most common, other yeast may be involved. They include Cryptococcus, Malassezia, Torulopsis, and Trichosporon yeast. Infections usually occur in the moist parts of the body: in the mouth (thrush), digestive tract, esophagus, vagina (vaginitis), the skin (yeast rash), and other parts of the body. A number of topical antifungal medications are available and have proven very effective. Acidophilous, a bacteria which helps to maintain a healthy level of yeast in the body, is also useful. It is available in yogurts with live cultures.
zinc - An essential mineral which made of enzymes that permit chemical reactions to proceed normally. It is involves the protein synthesis (the manufacture of protein) and cell division. Zinc is also a constituent of insulin, and is concerned with the sense of smell. It is found in meat, (especially liver), seafood, cereal grains, nuts and eggs. Insufficient amounts of zinc impairs wound healing and contributes to immune deficiency among other problems. Too much zinc can cause upset stomach, cause poor copper absorption, and cause immune deficiency. See nutrition.