M
M pattern: (Cardio)
right ventricular infarction on heart catheterization.
M-spike: on
protein electrophoresis, monoclonal gammopathy or M-protein secretion.
M-Team: multidisciplinary
team for learning disabled children, attention deficit disorder, etc.
MAC: (Abbrev) either monitored anesthesia control or minimal
anesthesia concentration, also see MAC infection below.
MAC infection:
(Inf Dis)
Mycobacteria avium complex infection.
MacAusland arthroplasty: (Ortho) elbow.
MacCarthy excision:
(Ortho)
method of excision of sacrum, sacral tumor.
Macewen operation: (GI) for inguinal hernia.
Macewen sign: (Neuro) percussion of the skull to detect hydrocephalus or
brain abscess.
Macewen and Shands
osteotomy: (Ortho/Pod) for coxa vara.
Machemer sclerotomy knife: (Ophth/Instrument)
machinery murmur:
(Cardio) rumbling cardiac
murmur.
Macintosh computer:
(Electronics) brand
name; almost exclusively referred to as simply “Mac” now, Apple computers.
Macintosh laryngoscope: (Equip)
MacIntosh tibial prosthesis: (Ortho)
MacKay-Marg tonometer:
(Ophth/Equip)
recording applanation tonometer.
Mackler esophageal tube: (ENT) for drainage.
macro reentry: (Cardio) supraventricular
tachycardia.
macroadenoma: (Onc)
pituitary adenoma (Stedman’s
Pathology word book 2001).
macrocytic anemia: (Hem) type of anemia where the size of
erythrocytes is greater than normal.
macrohematuria: (Uro)
gross hematuria, urine containing a large amount of red cells.
macrodactyly: (Ortho/Rheum) enlargement
of digit(s).
macrolides: (Pharm) a class of antibiotics.
MACTAR patient preference disability questionnaire: (McMaster-Toronto Arthritis questionnaire) used to
assess change in rheumatoid arthritis disease activity.
Macugen: (Rx) generic = pegaptanib;
for wet macular degeneration.
macular degeneration: (Ophth) 2 types; wet and dry; progressive cloudiness
of central vision.
maculopapule / maculopapular rash: (Not “macular papular”) lesion with flat base, papule
in center.
Madayag needle: (Instruments) used for fine needle biopsies.
Maddox rod: (Ophth) measures size of horizontal and vertical
phorias.; also called Maddox double rod.
Madison-Kipp
Corporation: (Place) local business,
metal dye casting,
Madison Public Health Department: (Social Services)
Madrazo, Ignazio: (Person) neurosurgeon who did adrenal implants in
madreporic coating: porous metal coating.
“magic” solution: (Derm)
for mouth sores, formulated by pharmacist containing lidocaine, diphenhydramine,
and aluminum hydroxide; although there are various recipes and variations on
the formulation; aka, Z-wash.
Magill laryngoscope, forceps: (Instrument)
MagnaBloc therapy: (Homeopathy) brand
name of magnets used in the belief that they help with numerous different
medical conditions by placing them onto the affected body part.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Terms (MRI):
cine modality.
contrast media: gadolinium, DTPA, etc.
echo time.
ferromagnetic foreign bodies.
FID: free induction decay.
orthogonal plane, coronal plane.
31-P spectroscopy.
Pi:PCr ratio (inorganic phosphate to phosphocreatine).
pixels: dots of light.
receiving coils: surface and body.
repetition time.
Resonex 4000 MR scanner.
spatial resolution and contrast.
spin-lattice relaxation time: T1 time.
spin-spin relaxation time: T2 time.
T1- and T2-weighted images.
T1 relaxation
T1 time
T2 relaxation
T2 time
Tesla: field-strength measurement.
magnetogyric ratio:
(Radio) magnetic field strength to resonance frequency.
magnetic resonance neurography: MRN,
imaging system for visualization of nerves.
magnetic source imaging:
(Neuro) MSI,
imaging to study brain function.
Magnuson procedure: (Ortho) for
recurrent dislocation of shoulder; aka, Magnuson
Stack procedure
Magnuson strut/splint: (Surgery)
Magsal: (Rx) magnesium salicylate;
anti-inflammatory drug, for pain relief.
Mag-Tab
SR: OTC magnesium supplement, sustained release.
MAHA: (Abbrev)
microangiopathic hemolytic anemia.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi: (Person) founder of transcendental meditation technique, Vedic
(referring to ancient Hindu culture or language) astrology, and Western
herbalism, now behind Ayurvedic medicine.
Mahurkar
catheter: (Equip) Note: This updated spelling came from Claudia
Tessier in her list of “corrections to word books”
MAIC: (Abbrev)
Mycobacterium avium intracellulare complex.
Mainstay catheter:
(Equip)
used for cardiology procedures.
Maisonneuve fracture: (Ortho) leg.
Majocchi
purpura: (Derm) purpura annularis telangiectodes.
mal de Debarquement syndrome: (Neuro) persistent
dysequlibrium feeling after exposure to motion.
mal de foie: (Condition) cirrhosis of the liver.
Malarone: (Rx) generic = atovaquone and proguanil, anti-malarial
drug (2001).
Malecot catheter:
(Equip)
2- and 4-winged drainage catheter, suprapubic.
malignant fibrous histiocytoma: (Onc) aggressive tumor of bone or soft tissue.
malleable probe:
(Equip)
allows customized access.
malleolus: (Anatomy) round bone of ankle; malleolar (adj);
malleoli (plural) - (NOTE- malleus is in the ear).
Malleotrain sleeve:
support
for the ankle.
malleotomy:
(ankle) to correct clubfoot OR (ear) incision into malleus.
mallet finger, mallet toe: (Injury) causes damage to tendon, inability to
straighten finger or toe.
mallet fracture:
(Injury)
fracture of the very end of finger.
malleus: (Anatomy) bone in ear (NOTE- malleolus is in ankle).
malleus nipper:
(Instrument/ENT)
Mallory-Weiss lesion: (GI) laceration of gastric cardia, seen in Mallory-Weiss
syndrome; synonym = Mallory-Weiss tear.
Mallory-Weiss syndrome: (GI) mucosal
gastric tear with wretching, vomiting blood,
abdominal pain.
Mallory-Weiss tear:
(GI) lacerations in the esophageal mucosa, caused most
often by forceful vomiting or coughing; synonym = Mallory-Weiss lesion.
malodorous: foul
odor.
malpighian bodies: small, nodular masses of lymphoid tissue attached to the sides of
smaller arterial branches; synonyms = splenic lymph follicles, malpighian
glands, malpighian nodules.
malpighian capsule: fibrous membrane enveloping spleen.
malpighiaceous: pertaining to, resembling a natural order of
tropical trees/shrubs called Malpighiaceae).
malsensing: (Cardio) pacemaker problem.
Malt technique: in heterotopic partial liver transplantation.
MALT lymphoma: mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue.
malum articulorum senilis: (Rheum) arthritis in the aged.
malum coxae: (Ortho) disease of the hip joint.
malum perforans pedis: (Pod) perforating ulcer of the foot in
certain neuropathies.
mammary aspiration specimen cytology test: (Lab) MASCT or MAS cytology test;
aspirate obtained from nipple for testing for breast cancer, leads to further
testing of diagnosis.
mammary souffle: (Cardio) continuous heart murmur.
mammastatin: protein that
controls abnormal cell growth in breast tissue.
Mammography Quality Standards Act: (Federal) MQSA; regulation
that requires mammography clinics to send patients written results of
mammograms (clear, easy to understand terminology) within 30 days of the test,
in addition to reports sent to their physician.
Mammex TR: (Radio) computer-aided mammographic diagnostic
system (2000).
mammillo-accessory ligament: (Anatomy) found in low
back.
MammoSite Radiation Therapy System or RTS: (Radio) delivers internal
radiation in less time following lumpectomy (from manufacturer’s website/2000).
Mammotest
Plus: (Equip) stereotactic breast biopsy system, digitally localizes lesion to
give precise coordinates for biopsy.
man: (Abbrev) meaning “in the morning”.
Manchurian fever: (Inf
Dis) fever resembling typhus, Sept-Dec
in
mandibular repositioning appliance: (Device/Pulm)
retainer-like device to stop snoring (2001).
mandibulectomy:
(Surgery) excision of mandible.
man-in-the-barrel syndrome: (Neuro) paralysis in upper body.
Mann-Whitney test: (Statistics) rank sum test, used
to compare 2 groups of data.
manometer: device to measure pressure
manometry, esophageal: (ENT) to measure pressure from the esophagus.
mantle field: (Onc) thymus and
cervical, axillary, mediastinal, and hilar lymph nodes, for irradiation.
Mantoux skin test: (Lab)
for TB; pronounced “man-too”.
MAP: (Abbrev)
mean arterial pressure; motor nerve action potential, also magnetically
activated position.
MAP-guided endocardial resection surgery: (Cardio) uses magnetically activated position
sensor for localization.
MAPHY: (Clinical Trial) metoprolol atherosclerosis
prevention in hypertension.
Maple hinged brace:
(Ortho)
knee.
maple syrup
urine disease: MSUB; metabolic disorder,
inability of body to use 3 essential amino acids of protein, urine has a sweet
odor like maple syrup; also called burnt sugar urine.
MAPP: Medicaid Purchase Plan; WI social
service program to provide health insurance to people with disabilities, see www.dhfs.state.wi.us/MAPP
Maquet procedure: (pronounced “mckay”)
for the knee.
marantic endocarditis: (Cardio) nonbacterial
infection.
marasmus: (Nutrition) caloric malnutrition, depletion of
muscle and fat stores; see also kwashiorkor.
Marax bronchodilator:
(Equip)
march fracture: (Ortho)
stress fracture of metatarsal.
march hemoglobinuria:
(Uro) hematuria caused by exertion, sometimes called
marathon hemoglobinuria, seen in marathon runners, may cause anemia.
Marcus Gunn phenomenon/pupil/sign: (Oph)
a phenomenon in which the eyelids widen during chewing, sometimes in a rhythmic elevation of the upper lid when the mouth is open
and ptosis when the mouth is closed. (NOTE- Also called jaw-winking
syndrome/phenomenon).
Marex: OTC
asthma medication.
Marfan syndrome:
(Ortho) inherited syndrome
consisting of long, thin limbs, laxity of ligaments.
marginal osteophytes: (Ortho) excess bone
formation, vertebral body margins of spine.
Margolin HSG cannula:
(Instrument)
OB-GYN.
Marie-Charcot-Tooth disease: (Neuro/Ortho) progressive motor and sensory
neuropathy with wasting of muscle tissue.
Marie-Strumpell disease: (Ortho) inflammation of the spine.
Marinr catheter, also RF Marinr: (Cardio) – that really is the spelling, no
“e”!
Marlin
collar: (Ortho) type of cervical support collar.
marker transit studies: (Radio/GI) evaluates how long it takes food to move
through digestive tract.
Markov cycle decision tree: how much risk a physician
should accept to provide how much benefit for a patient.
Markov process: to estimate life expectancy.
Marlen ileostomy bag:
(GI)
brand name.
Marlex mesh: (Surgery)
Marmor modular knee:
(Ortho)
prosthesis.
Marmor procedure:
knee
marmorated: (Derm)
condition in which appearance of skin is streaked like marble.
marmorosis: conversion into marble.
Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome: polydystrophic dwarfism.
Marplan: (Rx) generic = isocaboxazid; antidepressant.
marrow suppression.
Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz uterine suspension: (Uro) for stress
incontinence.
marsupialization:
(Surgery) creating a pouch.
Martin-Gruber anastomosis: (Neuro) nerve anomaly in the forearm.
Martin screw: (Ortho) for hip fractures.
MAS: (Abbrev/OB) meconium
aspiration syndrome.
MASCT: (Lab) mammary aspirate
specimen cytology test; also MAS cytology
test; tests nipple aspirate for breast cancer and need for further testing
for diagnosis.
MASH
Program: (Academic) Acronym for the
Middleton Alternative Senior High; see Middleton-Cross Plains School District website page for more info:
www.mcpasd.k12.wi.us/
masklike facies: (Neuro) having a masklike
expression with rare blinking, especially seen in Parkinson disease (Stedman’s
2000).
mass effect (NOT “mask”): (Neuro) damage to the brain.
mass flowmeter: (Pulm) measures
velocity on pulmonary function testing; NOTE that flowmeter is one word.
mass spectrometry: (Test)
ionizing technique to analyze peptides, catecholamines, bile acids, and various
drugs.
Massie nail: (Ortho) for hip fractures.
massive sliding graft: (Ortho).
mast cells: connective tissue cell,
plays a role in hypersensitivity reactions.
mastectomy: (Surgery)
types are radical, modified radical, simple, etc.
Master Flow Pumpette: (Equip) disposable IV
pump.
master knot of Henry: (Ortho) tuberosity on
navicular bone.
Master test: (Cardio) for
ischemic heart disease; uses a pair of 9" steps with a platform at the
top, takes into account number of trips, age of patient, weight, etc. Synonym:
Master 2-step exercise test.
masterwort: (Homeopathy) botanical, herb and plant.
Mastisol: (Derm) topical adhesive (Source: Stedman’s
Dermatology 2000).
mastodynia: pain in breast.
match
test: (Pulm) checks force
of exhalations; ability to blow out a match 6” from mouth exhaling as hard as
possible.
matricectomy: (Pod) toenail excision. NOTE: This is the preferred spelling, but matrixectomy
has also become acceptable.
matrix vesicles:
believed
to be the starting point in crystal formation.
Mattox maneuver: (Surgery/GI) to expose suprarenal aorta after traumatic injury.
mattress suture: (Surgery) suture technique.
matutinal epilepsy:
(Neuro) occurring on awakening.
Matzenauer speculum:
(Instrument)
Mauck procedure: (Ortho) knee.
Maumenee-Park speculum: (Ophth/Instrument).
Mauriac syndrome: dwarfism with obesity and hepatosplenomegaly
in children with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus.
Mauriceau maneuver (or Mauriceau-Levret maneuver): (OB-GYN) breech delivery in which infant body is
astraddle the right forearm and middle finger of right hand is in fetal mouth
to maintain flexion while traction made on shoulders with other hand.
Mavik: (Rx) generic =
trandolapril; antihypertensive drug.
Max forceps: (Instrument)
Maxalt, Maxalt MLT: (Rx) generic = rizatriptan; for migraine headaches.
Maxaquin: (Rx) generic =
lomefloxacin; antibiotic.
Maxidex: (Rx) generic = dexamethasone; ophthalmic (2003).
Maxidone: (Rx) drug for pain management (2001).
Maxipime: (Rx) generic = cefepime;
antibiotic
Maxitrol: (Rx) generic =
neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone; ophthalmic ointment, anti-infective
steroid.
Maxon suture: (Surgery)
Mayer nasal splint
?
Maylard incision: (GYN) transverse muscle splitting, used in various pelvic and abdominal
surgeries.
Mayo
block: regional anesthesia technique.
Mayo bunionectomy: (Pod) for bunion deformity.
Mayo
procedure: (GI) for umbilical hernia
Mayo scissors:
(Instrument)
Mayo-Robson point:
(GI)
around umbilicus, tenderness on pressure in disease of pancreas
Mayo-Sims scissors:
(Instrument)
Maze procedure:
(Cardio)
for atrial fibrillation
Mazzotti test/syndrome: (Allergy/Inf Dis) results from anaphylaxis to a drug, particularly
infectious disease drugs, such as for filariasis, etc.
Mazur rating system:
(PT)
of the ankle, assesses functional status.
McArdle syndrome: type 5
glycogenosis (Source: Stedman’s), causes muscle pain and fatigue especially
following exercise.
MCBN: (Abbrev) myocardial
contraction band necrosis.
McBride bunionectomy:
(Pod)
toe, foot surgery.
McBurney point, sign: (GI) an area over the
appendix that is extremely tender in severe appendicitis.
McCannel suture:
(Surgery)
technique for eye surgeries.
McCarey-Kaufmann medium: (Ophth/Transplant) to preserve eye or cornea for transplant.
McCarthy
Scale: (Test) developmental screen for children ages
2-8.
McCash procedure:
for Dupuytren contracture.
McCauley procedure: (Pod) release of clubfoot
McClure iris scissors: (Instrument)
McCrea sound: (Instrument) to dilate
urethra, infants and children.
McCullough forceps:
(Instrument)
OB/GYN
McDonald maneuver:
(OB)
measures height of uterus to determine gestational age (Stedman’s).
McFadden clip:
(Vascular/Instrument).
McGill Pain Questionnaire: (Neuro) MPQ or MPQ-SF, which is the short form.
McIndoe reconstruction: (GYN) vaginal reconstruction.
McIndoe scissors:
(Instrument)
“mckay” osteotomy–NO!! See Maquet osteotomy
McKee-Farrar prosthesis: (Ortho) hip.
McKeever procedure:
(Pod)
for hallux valgus deformity, arthrodesis.
McKeever prosthesis:
(Ortho)
knee.
McKenty elevator:
(ENT) septal elevator.
McKenzie exercises: (PT) for back pain.
McKenzie forceps:
(Instrument)
McKibbin splint: leg.
McKissock incision/operation: (Surgery) mammoplasty,
breast reduction (ICD9CM codes).
McLaughlin tarsorrhaphy: (Surgery) eyes.
McLaughlin technique: (Ortho) for repair of
quadriceps tendon rupture.
McLaughlin Vitallium nails: (Surgery)
McLean prism contact lens: (Ophth)
McLeod blood phenotype: (Hem)
McMaster bone graft.
McMurray test, maneuver: (Ortho) external and internal
rotation of the tibia, to determine meniscal injury.
McMurray osteotomy: (Ortho) femoral neck.
McNealy-Glassman-Mixter forceps: (Instrument)
McNemar test: statistical, to analyze data.
McPherson-Vannas scissors.
McPherson-Ziegler iris knife.
McReynolds keratome.
McReynolds procedure: transposition of
pterygium.
McRoberts maneuver: (OB-GYN) procedure to reduce fetal shoulder
dystocia.
MCT oil: (Abbrev) medium chain
triglycerides.
McVay-Anson hernia
repair: (Surgery) also McVay
repair/procedure.
M.D. Anderson clamp:
(Instrument)
used in hysterectomy.
MDL protocol: (Cardio)
anti-arrhythmic.
MDM skin test: (Allergy) minor determinant mixture, which is
collectively benzylpenicillin, benzylpenicilloate, benzylpenilloate.
MDR: multidrug-resistant.
meadow dermatitis:
(Derm) photoallergic reaction following contact with
a plant containing furocoumarin in which the bizarre configuration of the eruption is that of the streaky
pattern of the plant contact; often occurs after sunbathing. Synonym: phytophlyctodermatitis.
Meadows syndrome:
(Cardio/OB) cardiomyopathy occurring in pregnancy (Named after Dr
William Meadows).
mean feat: (Phrase) as
in “no mean feat”, meaning it was not a small achievement.
Mebaral: (Rx) generic = mephobarbital; antiseizure drug. (2001).
mecamylamine: (Rx) investigational drug for Tourette
syndrome treatment in young people (2001).
mechanocardiography:
(Cardio)
graphic tracings of mechanical effects of heartbeat.
Mechanogastrography: (GI) graphic studies of mechanics of gastric
function.
Mecholyl challenge test: (Allergy) to evaluate and characterize nonspecific
bronchial hypersensitivity, evaluate efficacy of medications in prevention of
provoked bronchospasm; aka, Methacholine challenge test.
Meckel diverticulum:
(GI)
ectopic tissue, may cause peptic ulcer/bleeding.
Meckel scan: (Radio) to diagnose Meckel
diverticulum.
meconium: (
Medacord PVL vascular testing
device ?
MEDAL: (Clinical Trial) study to
determine the efficacy of etoricoxib vs. diclofenac in treating osteoarthritis.
Medallion lens.
MedCOM: immediate
access consult line to UWHC.
Mederma: (Derm)
OTC ointment to improve scar appearance
(new or old scars).
Medflight: UW rescue
helicopter (1 word, capital “m” only). (UW website
2000).
medial collateral ligament : (Anatomy) knee, elbow.
medial malleolus: (Anatomy) ankle prominence.
medial meniscus: (Anatomy)
knee (plural = menisci).
median raphe: (Anatomy)
ridge along midline of perineum (groin).
medical food: (Nutrition) FDA defines as food which
provides unique nutrient needs that result from specific medical condition.
Medic-Alert bracelet, necklace: brand name, worn to alert caregivers,
rescuers to specific medical information of the person wearing the item.
MediClenze: (Pharm) personal cleansing and medicating system
for perineal area.
Medifast program: weight reduction program.
Medigesic: (Rx) analgesic (butalbital, APAP, caffeine).
Medihaler: (Rx/Device) drug delivery system.
Medina catheter:
(Cardio)
Mediplast: (Derm) OTC wart treatment plaster.
Mediplex, Mediplex Ultra tabules: (Supplements) vitamin B complex, OTC.
MediPort: venous and arterial access port.
Mediscus low-air-loss bed:
(Equip)
used to prevent decubitus ulcer formation.
Mediven Elegance support hose: compression stockings.
MedPro Rx: specialty pharmacy for
complex medical problems, 1-800-571-3100; www.medprorx.com
MedTREK Gold: (Surgery)
sinus surgery instrument brand.
Medtronic Kappa 400 pacemaker: (Cardio) aka, Medtronic KDR,
DR 400, DR 900
Medtronic INTACT porcine bioprosthesis valve: (Cardio) aortic, mitral, tricuspid.
Medtronic pacemaker:
(Cardio) line of cardiac pacemakers and leads,
including, Medtronic EnRhythm, EnPulse, Sigma,
Sigma D, etc. See www.medtronic.com
for more info.
Medtronic-Zyrel-VM
pacemaker: (Cardio)
medulla oblongata:
(Anatomy) lowest division of the brainstem, closest to spinal cord,
houses cardiac and respiratory centers.
medulla ossium flava: (Neuro) yellow bone marrow, reticular
network filled with fat.
medulla ossium rubra: (Neuro) red bone marrow, the meshes contain
the developmental stages of erythrocytes, leukocytes, and megakaryocytes.
medullary canal: (Ortho) in shaft of bone.
Mees lines, stripes: (Derm) horizontal white
bands on the nails, most suggestive of arsenic poisoning; also seen in leprosy.
Meesman dystrophy:
(Ophth)
characterized by corneal epithelium cysts and opacities.
Mefilm: polyurethane film dressing (2001).
mefloquine: (Rx) generic drug to
prevent malaria (Lariam).
MEFV: (Abbrev) maximum expiratory flow volume. (Pulmonary function
testing).
Megace: (Rx) generic = megestrol
acetate; antianorexic, increases appetite.
megaloblastic: (Hem) pertaining to abnormal red blood cell
series.
megalochiria:
condition distinguished by abnormally large hands; synonym =
macrocheiria.
megacolon: (GI) condition of extreme
dilation of the colon, aka, giant colon.
meibomian cyst: (Ophth) chalazion.
Meigs syndrome: (GYN) fibromyoma of ovary.
MelaFind: (Derm) used to image suspicious
lesions.
Melaleuca: (Homeopathy) variety of
treatments derived from this plant.
melanotic: (Derm)
presence of melanin, skin pigment (NOTE- No matter how many times you hear it,
it is never “melanotic stools”, always melenic stools, see below).
melasma: (Derm) patchy pigmentation
of sun-exposed skin, seen most commonly in pregnancy.
Melastatin: (Lab/Onc) test kit for
malignant melanoma.
melena: (GI)
condition of dark stools due to presence of blood, see “melanotic” above to
avoid confusing the two.
melenic (adj) stools: (NOTE- NEVER “melanotic stools”, see above) This is
how the phrase should be typed per medical dictionaries.
Meleney infection: (NOTE- Not “melanie”, sounds like this) skin infection associated with gangrene.
Melgisorb dressing: (Surgery)
meloxicam : (Rx) generic for Mobic;
drug for arthritis (2000).
Menactra: (Vaccine) meningococcal vaccination (June 2005).
mendelian dominant gene: (Genetics)
Menest: (Rx) medication, estrogen derivative (2000).
Menetrier disease: (GI) giant gastric mucosal hyperplasia.
Menghini needle: GYN and liver biopsy.
Menicon 2: (Ophth) rigid,
gas-permeable contact lens brand (FDA 2000).
Meniere disease: (Neuro) dizziness, vertigo.
meningeal arteries.
Meningitec: (Rx) vaccine for prevention of meningitis and
meningococcemia (2002).
meningitis: (Neuro)
meniscectomy: (Ortho) removal of meniscus from knee joint.
meniscitis: (Ortho) inflammation
of meniscus.
meniscotome: (Ortho) instrument used for meniscectomy.
meniscus: (Anatomy) cartilage in the knee; plural = menisci.
meniscus sign:
(GI) NOTE- Refers to appearance
of gastric ulcer on x-ray, aka, crescent sign (Source: Dorland’s Medical
Dictionary).
menometrorrhagia: (Gyn) irregular or
excessive bleeding during or between menstrual periods.
MEN-1 syndrome:
multiple
endocrine neoplasia, type 1.
Menostar patch: (Rx) estradiol; patch for
osteoporosis prevention.
Mensch/Murray disease: (Rheum) another name for Lyme disease; named after
the 2 Connecticut mothers who first reported Lyme disease.
Menson and Scheck procedure: hip
Mentax cream 1% : (Derm/Rx) generic = butenafine; topical antifungal.
Mentor MemoryGel implants: (Surgery) gel-filled implants.
Mentor Self-Cath catheter: (Equip)
Mentor GFS penile
prosthesis: (GU)
MEOS: (Abbrev) microsomal
ethanol oxidizing enzyme system.
Mephisto shoes: (Podiatry)
Mepiform dressing: self-adhesive silicone dressing for scar care
(2001).
Mepilex dressing: self-adhesive wound dressing (2001).
Mepitel dressing: self-adhesive, nonadherent dressing (2001).
mEq: (Abbrev) milliequivalent.
meralgia paresthetica: (Neuro) condition of pain,
paresthesia in thigh, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve; NOTE- Listen carefully
so that you do not type “neuralgia” paresthetica, which it sounds like in
dictation.
Mercedes incision:
(Surgery)
Mercedes-Benz sign: on plain film x-rays of abdomen, stellate
patterns may appear when spaces between gallstones are filled with gas.
Merchant angle, view : (X-ray) of
patella
Merck-Medco: (Pharm) a company where prescriptions can be
requested online via their website or by mail and
then mailed out to patients; www.merckmedco.com.
Meridia: (Rx) generic: sibutramine HCI;
for weight loss.
Meridian pacemaker:
(Cardio)
MERIT Heart Failure Study: (or MERIT-HF): “Metoprolol
(CR/XL) Randomized Intervention Trial in Congestive Heart Failure” study;
Jackson Foundation took part in the study.
Merle D’Aubigne scale: functional ability of hips.
Merogel: (ENT) a brand of nasal dressing and stent.
Merrem IV: (Rx) meropenem by injection; used to treat a
variety of infections.
Mersilene suture:
(Surgery)
Mersilk suture: (Surgery) aka: Mersilk black silk
suture.
Merthiolate: (Derm) topical anesthetic,
containing thimerosal
mesangial matrix: renal.
mesenchyma tissue: embryonic connective tissue.
mesenchymal tumor: (or mesenchymoma): mixed mesenchymal tumor
composed of 2 or more mesodermal cellular elements not commonly associated.
mesna: (Rx) generic for Mesnex,
see below.
Mesnex: (Rx) generic = mesna; for
hemorrhagic cystitis.
mesodermal tumor: mesoderm is the middle of the 3 germ layers
of embryonic tissue.
messa di voce: (Voice) vocal exercise
which begins softly, continues up to crescendo, then back to decrescendo.
MET: (Cardio) measures oxygen cost of energy
expenditure, as on exercise stress tests, typed as 1 MET, 2 METS, 3 METS,
etc.). (NOTE- All caps in this case; be careful when you hear providers dictate
regarding cancer metastasis since they will sometimes abbreviate it as “cancer
mets”, type out the word metastasis rather than abbreviating it, see below).
“mets”: (Onc) abbreviated form of
the word metastasis/metastases; be careful when you hear providers dictate
regarding cancer metastasis since they will sometimes abbreviate it as “cancer
mets”, type out the word metastasis rather than abbreviating it (see MET
above).
metabisulfites:
(Additive/Allergy) preservatives in food and drugs that may cause
allergic-type reactions.
Metabolife: OTC weight loss preparation, also called Metabolife
356, Metabolife E-Z Tabs.
metabolite: any substance produced by metabolism.
metachronous cancer: (Onc)
lesion occurs at a time later than the index lesion, multiple primary cancers
developing at intervals
metacognition: knowledge about your own
thoughts and learning.
Metadate CD, Metadate ER: (Rx ) generic =
methylphenidate; prescription drug used
for attention deficit disorder. (2002).
metanephrines: (Lab) inactive metabolite.
metaphyseal chondrodysplasia: (Ortho) group of inherited dysplasias, patients have
short stature and irregularities of the metaphyses; some types include Jansen,
McKusick, and Schmid.
metaphyseal dysostosis: (Ortho) developmental abnormality in which
metaphyses are expanded by deposits of cartilage.
metaphyseal flair:
(Ortho) wide part of shaft of long bone.
metaproterenol:
(Rx)
generic for respiratory conditions, especially asthma.
Metasul hip: (Ortho) brand of hip
replacement system and components.
metatarsal cuneiform exostosis: (Pod) aka, saddle bone deformity; bony bump on
midfoot area.
metatarsus abductus (valgus): (Pod) turning out of foot.
metatarsus adductus (varus): (Pod) turning in of foot.
metatarsus equinus:
(Pod)
raised heel.
methacholine challenge test: (Allergy) aka, Mecholyl challenge test, used to
diagnosed asthma or bronchospasm.
Methadose:
(Rx) generic = methadone; treatment for opiate addiction (FDA 2000).
methamphetamine:
(Addiction) a drug of abuse also known as “crank”, “crystal meth”, etc.,
made of mostly household chemicals.
methemoglobin:
(Lab/Hem) hemoglobin in a form which is incapable of carrying oxygen.
methemoglobinemia: (Hem)
excess methemoglobin in the blood resulting in cyanosis.
methenamine hippurate: (Uro) urinary antiseptic.
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: (MRSA) a
“super-infection”; some doctors will pronounce the abbreviation, so that it
sounds like “mer-sa”.
methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus: (MSSA)
method of Yasargil: (Neuro) brain surgery done
to attempt to end seizures.
methyl aminolevulinate:
(Rx)
generic for topical cream ingredient to treat actinic keratosis (Metvix is the current trade name, but may be changed, per
FDA).
methylcobalamin:
(Nutrition) vitamin B12.
methylene blue dye, stain: (Lab) used in histology and microbiology.
methylene white: (Lab)
colorless form of methylene blue dye/stain.
methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase: (Lab) MTHFR; used to further investigate hyperhomocysteinemia and
venous thrombosis.
Methylin,
Methylin-ER: (Rx) for ADHD, oral tablets
(FDA 2000).
methylmalonic acid: (Lab)
methylmercury: (Chemical)
substance found in some seafood, which
may cause birth defects, pregnant women, nursing women, or those trying to
become pregnant should avoid (FDA advisory 2001).
methylmethacrylate.
methylphenidate:
(Rx)
generic Metadate, for ADHD.
MethyPatch: (Rx) skin patch for treatment of attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (2000).
methylsulfonylmethane: or MSM,
for arthritis (2001).
Metopirone: (Rx) metyrapone; used to
test adrenal glands.
MetroCream, MetroGel, MetroLotion: (Rx) topical derm products
containing metronidazole.
Metvix cream: (Rx) methyl aminolevulinate;
topical for actinic keratosis (NOTE:
Name may be changed per FDA).
Metzenbaum scissors.
mexiletine: (Rx) drug used for cardiac
problems.
Mexitil: (Rx) generic = mexiletine; for cardiac problems,
irregular heartbeat, etc.
Meyenburg complex: clusters of small bile ducts in polycystic
livers.
Meyenburg-Altherr-Uehlinger syndrome/ Meyenburg
disease:
degenerative disease of cartilage producing bizarre form of arthritis with
collapse of the ears, cartilaginous portion of nose, and tracheobronchial tree;
may cause death by chronic infection or suffocation.
Meyer incision/Meyer-Halsted incision: breast surgery.
Meyer light pipe.
Meyerding retractor.
Meyers and McKeever classification: of avulsion
fractures involving a cruciate ligament.
Meyhoeffer chalazion curet.
M-Fact Study: for hypertension (2000).
MGH (
Miami J collar:
(Ortho)
type of cervical collar.
MIBB: (Acronym) Minimally Invasive
Breast Biopsy system; takes multiple breast biopsies from a single insertion
(1997).
131-MIBG scan/MIBG scintiscan: (metaiodobenzylguanidine)
Nuclear scan of the adrenal glands; used to detect pheochromocytoma.
Micardis HCT : (Rx) generic = telmisartan;
antihypertensive prescription drug.
Michael Reese shoulder prosthesis.
Michel skin clips.
MIC-KEY tube: gastrostomy tube. NOTE spelling and style, taken from
manufacturer’s packaging, not “mickey”.
Mick applicator: implants radioactive seeds.
“Mickey” tube – NO! See MIC-KEY above.
Micort-HC Lipocream: (Rx) contains hydrocortisone acetate.
Micral Chemstrip: (Lab) urine test for microalbuminuria.
Micrins suture: (Surgery) brand of
microsurgical soft tissue suture.
MicroAire Pulse Lavage: (Equip) debridement, surgery or wound care.
microalbuminuria: early warning sign of diabetic kidney
disease.
Microblater ArthroWand: (Equip) used to access
small joints of the
wrist, ankle, elbows, etc.
microculdoscopy: (Ob/GYN) done to
assess possible ectopic pregnancy (instrument is microculdoscope).
microcurie: unit of measurement,
radionuclide; abbreviated as: uCi.
microcystic: involving having small cysts.
MicroFlow needle: (Instrument) used for ocular
procedures.
Microgestin Fe 1/20:
(Rx)
ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone, birth control pill.
microgeodic disease: involves finger swelling,
pain, usually in children, but some adults as well, lasts approximately 2
months.
micro
International units: abbreviated as mcIU.
Micro Jewel defibrillator: (Cardio/Device)
implantable defibrillator; also Micro Jewel II (different model).
microkeratome: instrument to make cuts in the eye.
micro-Keith needle: (ENT)
microlithiasis: formation
of granules or tiny stones, especially testicular and pulmonary.
Microknit vascular prosthesis.
microlaparoscope: (Equip) tinier version of
laparoscope used for GYN diagnosis and procedures; microlaparoscopy
is the procedure.
MicroMark clip:
(Onc/Instrument) used to mark biopsy sites for follow-up
examinations.
Micromedex: website for doctors and
patients with printable medical information sheets on diseases, symptoms, etc.
MicroMewi catheter: (Equip) device for infusion
of lytic agents in treating thrombosed arteries and veins.
micromole: abbreviated as : mcmol .
micropannus: (Ophth) eye condition.
Micro-Plate EIA:
(Lab)
enzyme immunoassay test for illicit drugs in oral fluids.
Micropore hypoallergenic tape.
microproteinuria: (Renal) excretion of small amounts of protein in the
urine, seen in renal disease.
Micro SI Holter system.
MicroSkin urostomy pouch:
(Equip)
also called Cymed MicroSkin pouch.
microtrauma: injury from repeated application of loading forces on
the same musculotendinous unit or area; usually seen in athletes from
exercising too hard and too fast.
Microvasive biliary devices: brand name, Microvasive has a line of GI products.
Microvit scissors: (Ophth/Instrument)
microwave
catheter ablation: (Proc/Cardio) done to
correct atrial fibrillation/flutter.
microwave
endometrial ablation: (Proc/GYN) MEA, done for treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
Microzide: (Rx) antihypertensive drug (2002).
micturition syncope: syncope while in the act
of emptying the bladder; results from vagal reaction, Valsalva maneuver, and
orthostasis.
Midamor: (Rx)
generic = amiloride hydrochloride (2002).
MIDAS
questionnaire: (Neuro)
Migraine Disability Assessment Scale.
MIDCAB: (Cardio/Acronym)
minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass; procedure to treat clogged
arteries.
Middleton line: (Ortho).
midodrine: (Rx) generic for ProAmatine; for low blood pressure.
midsagittal plane: median
Mifeprex: (Rx) generic =
mifepristone; aka: RU-486 or the “abortion pill”, or “early option
pill”; pharmaceutical termination of pregnancy.
MigraDaily: (OTC) herbal remedy containing the herb feverfew
migrainous: (adjective)
meaning pertaining to migraines, not “migranous” (Source:
Webster’s Medical Dictionary).
“Migra-Lieve”: (OTC) ) ; Update 2004: name changed to Migre-Lief; dietary supplement for treatment of migraine
(contains riboflavin, magnesium, and feverfew
Miglin method: arachnophlebectomy;
trademarked method to treat spider veins (2001).
Migquin: (Rx) generic Midrin, for migraine headaches.
Migranal nasal spray:
(Rx)
generic = dihydroergotamine; nasal spray for treatment of migraine.
MigraSpray: (OTC) sublingual containing feverfew for treatment
of migraine.
Migrazone: (Rx) contains acetaminophen/dichloralphenazone/
isometheptene; prescription drug to treat migraines. (NOTE- Another preparation
is spelled similar: MigraZone balm–an OTC topical lotion
for headaches, apply to forehead, neck–from Canada.).
Migre-Lief: (OTC) dietary supplement for treatment of
migraine (contains riboflavin,
magnesium, and feverfew ).
Mijnhardt exercise tolerance:
(Equip)
brand name equipment used to measure oxygen usage during exercise.
Milch maneuver: for reducing shoulder dislocation.
Milch procedure: on ulna
Milex retractor.
milia: plural form of milium (see below).
miliary nodes: (on lung x-ray) nodules 2-3 mm in size,
approximately the size of millet seeds.
miliary aneurysm: of retina.
milieu: plural is milieus: surroundings.
milium: (Derm) subepidermal keratin cyst, usually multiple
(plural = milia).
MILIS: Multicenter Investigation of the Limitation of
Infarct Size.
military maneuver: for thoracic outlet syndrome.
militate against: militate means to have an effect or
influence.
milk lines, embryonic: usual location of
supernumerary nipples.
milkmaid’s elbow: elbow dislocation
Millard cheiloplasty:
reconstruction
technique.
Miller procedure: (Pod) for flatfoot.
Miller retractor/dilator/tube: (Equip)
miller’s revenge, the: phrase meaning an increase
in incidence of diverticulosis resulting from decrease in dietary fiber.
Miller-Fischer variant: (Neuro) of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
millimole: abbreviated as: mmol; equal to 1/1000 of a gram
molecule.
milliosmol: abbreviated as: mOsm; one
thousandth of an osmole; also acceptable to spell as milliosmole.
Millin bladder retractor: (Instrument)
Milwaukee brace/orthosis: (Equip)
milrinone lactate: (Rx) generic for Primacor; cardiovascular drug (FDA 2002).
Mimer Room/table: x-ray.
Miner osteotome:
(Equip)
Minerva jacket (cast): plaster body cast, usually for cervical spine
fractures.
Minesse: (Rx) oral contraceptive (2000).
MINI Crown stent: (Equip) designed for small vessels (1999).
Miniguard: (Device/Uro) device used for treatment of stress
incontinence.
minimal change disease : (Neuro) dementia.
Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory
(MMPI): (Psych) test.
Minocqua, Wisconsin:
(Geography) town in northern
WI, noted especially for tourism.
Mira diathermy/scissors: (Ophth)
Mira photocoagulator:
(Ophth)
Mirage guidewire:
(Equip/Neuro/Vascular) used for arteriovenous malformations (AVM) in
the brain.
MiraLax: (Rx) prescription laxative powder, for bowel
cleansing prior to GI imaging.
Miralene suture: (Surgery) for skin closure.
Miraluma: (Radio) technetium imaging
agent .
Mirapex: (Rx) generic = pramipexole;
treatment for Parkinson disease.
Mircette: (Rx) generic =
desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol; birth control pills.
Mirena: (Rx/Device) intrauterine device, contraceptive.
Mischler reservoir: (Equip)
misoprostol : (Rx) generic Cytotec; approved
for peptic ulcer disease, but also used in elective and surgical abortion and
miscarriage, and also controversial use for induction of labor (not FDA
approved for induction).
Mitchell bunionectomy: (Pod)
Mitek VAPR: (Equip/Ortho) arthroscopic system.
Mitek anchors: (Ortho) hardware.
mitoxantrone: (Rx) generic for
Novantrone; injection/IV; antineoplastic
chemotherapy, also used to treat MS.
Mitozytrex: (Rx) mitomycin injection; cancer drug; also known as
MitoExtra.
Mitraflex dressing: wound care.
mitral commissurotomy: (Cardio) for relief of mitral stenosis.
mitral valve fusion, types: commissural, cuspal,chordal, combined.
Mitrathane: human tissue polymer.
Mitrofanoff principle: (Uro) use of a
catheterizable channel, i.e., appendix, bowel, ureter, to drain bladder as
alternative to urethra.
Mittendorf dot: (Ophth) hyaloid corpuscle, seen on eye exam.
mittelschmerz: (GYN) midcycle
pelvic pain.
Mittlemeir ceramic total hip: (Ortho)
Mityvac Vacuum Delivery System: (OB/GYN).
MixEvac bone cement mixer: for mixing polymethyl
methacrylate.
mixing study: (Lab) hemostasis screen; aka, inhibitor screen.
Mixter clamp: (Instrument)
mJ: (Abbrev) for millijoule.
ML eye spear: (Ophth/Instrument) used to remove excess
fluid, debris from ophthalmic operative field.
MLR: (Abbrev/Cardio)
myocardial laser revascularization; procedure for angina pectoris and
myocardial ischemia.
mmHg: (Abbrev) for millimeters
of mercury (blood pressure readings).
MMM (3M) plastic drape.
M-mode echocardiogram and 2D (two dimensional): diagnostic ultrasound
mnemonic: device used as a memory aid, as in taking same
starting letters of a series of things you need to remember and creating a
phrase which will be easier to memorize.
Mobetron intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT).
Moberg procedure/arthrodesis: fingers
Mobic: (Rx) generic =
meloxicam; arthritis medication
(2000).
Mobiluncus: bacteria.
mobile wad compartment: forearm
Mobin-Uddin umbrella filter: (Cardio).
Mobitz I block: AV nodal
Mobitz II block: His-Purkinje
modanifil: (Rx)
generic for Provigil; stimulant for daytime sleepiness (2003).
MODY: maturity-onset diabetes of the young.
Moe impactor: ?
Moehle corneal forceps ?
Moersch forceps:
(Instrument)
Moexipril HCI: (Rx) generic equivalent to Univasc; antihypertensive
drug.
Mojave system:
(Ophth/Surgery) for cataract removal surgery.
Mojave Desert (pronounced “mo-hah-vee”): (Geography) in SE
California.
Mohel: (Religion) someone who performs religious
circumcisions or Bris in the Jewish faith.
Mohs surgery: (Derm) microscopic removal of skin tumors, named after Frederic E Mohs,
so NOT “Moh’s”.
moiety: half or an indefinite portion.
Moisturin cream: (Derm) OTC product for dry skin.
molecules of Detri: (GYN) ?
moleskin bandage:
OTC,
heavy cotton fabric with velvet-like nap.
Molesworth procedure: elbow.
Mollaret meningitis: (Neuro) recurrent aseptic
meningitis; may be brought on by Herpes simplex II.
Mollison mastoid rongeur : (Instrument)
molluscicides: chemical used to kill molluscs or mussels.
molluscum contagiosum: (Derm)
molluscum inclusion bodies: (Lab) found in molluscum contagiosum.
MOLLY forceps:
(Instrument)
brand of forceps used for tubal sterilization procedures.
Molt mouth gag:
(Equip)
Moltz-Storz tonsillectome:
?
Momentum DR pacemaker: (Device/Cardio) brand of dual chamber pacemaker.
mometasone furoate cream: (Derm/Rx) generic for Elocon cream.
Monckeberg calcific sclerosis: (Cardio/Condition) medial artery calcifications;
aka, Monckeberg disease.
Monel metal: (Ortho) used
in making orthoses.
Monitoring the Future Study: MTF
assesses drug use among 8th, 10th, and 12th graders nationwide, and has been
conducted annually since 1975 by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Monocryl suture:
(Surgery)
monocuspid tilting disc: (Cardio)
mechanical heart valve .
Monodox: (Rx) generic = doxycycline; antibiotic. (2002).
monofilament suture:
(Surgery)
mongolian spots: (Derm) bluish patches, a benign skin condition,
usually more of dark-skinned races.
monomanual diathermy: technique used in
ophthalmologic surgery.
MonoNessa: (Rx) birth control pill.
mononucleosis, types of: (Inf
Dis) typhoidal, anginose, lymphadenopathic (it is
also abbreviated to just “mono”. Test for infection is called Monospot).
Monorail technique: (Cardio) for evaluating
coronary stenosis and completing angioplasty.
Monospot: (Lab) test for mononucleosis infection.
monostotic fibrous dysplasia: (Ortho) fibrous dysplasia of a single bone (as
opposed to polyostotic, or many bones).
Monroe-Kerr incision:
(OB/Surgery)
low transverse cesarean section incision.
Monsel solution: (Hem) to coagulate superficial bleeding.
Montague proctoscope:
(Equip)
Monteggia fracture:
(Ortho) fracture of proximal ulna, distal radial head.
Montercaux fracture: ankle.
“Montezuma’s revenge”: slang for a gastrointestinal
disorder with severe diarrhea picked up from drinking water and/or unwashed
foods in exotic places (particularly Latin American countries), also called
traveler’s diarrhea.
Montgomery follicles:
(Anatomy)
areolar glands.
Montgomery T tube:
(Equip)
brand of tracheal tube).
Montgomery tape, straps: (Supplies) used in place of regular surgical tape.
Monticelli-Spinelli system: (Ortho) external fixation system.
Monurol: (Rx) generic = fosfomycin
tromethamine; antibiotic for UTI; one dose only; dissolved in water.
moon facies: (Condition) roundness of
the face seen in hyperadrenocorticalism, Cushing disease, or use of cortisone
drugs; also sometimes dictated as moon face.
Moore gallbladder spoon: (Instrument)
Moore bone elevator:
(Instrument)
Moore osteotomy : (Proc/Ortho) long bones
Moore pin: (Equip) for
hip surgery.
Moore procedure:
(Ortho) shoulder/humeral head.
Mooren ulcer: (Ophth)
chronic, progressive inflammation of cornea.
moot point: phrase meaning something has been discussed and
settled and is not worth going over again (NOT “mute”).
Moreno gastroenterostomy clamp: (Instrument)
Moreno-Moretz vena cava clamp: (Instrument)
Morgagni, Giovanni: (Person) known for developing the anatomical concept
of disease.
morgagnian lens opacity: (Ophth) type of cataract.
morning dipping: (Pulm) phrase meaning dyspnea in early morning
hours.
Moro reflex: (Neuro) startle reflex in
newborns.
morpheaform carcinoma: (Onc) sclerosing
basal cell
morphometry: measurement of the form of
organisms or their parts.
Morquio syndrome: includes short trunk dwarfism, an inherited
condition, patients usually survive well into adulthood.
Morrison-Hurd tonsil dissector: (Instrument)
Morse aortic scissors: (Instrument)
Morse code: series of dots/dashes or long/short sounds used for
transmitting messages.
Morson nephrolithotomy forceps: (Instrument)
mort d’amour: means dying during the act
of intercourse (or love).
mortis, livor: (Derm) livid discoloration of the skin of
dependent parts of a corpse.
mortis, rigor: muscle rigidity in cadaver usually 4-10 hours
after death.
mortise: (Ortho/Anatomy) cavity of the ankle.
mortise view: (X-ray).
Morton extension: (Ortho).
Morton neuroma:
(Neuro) of the foot.
mosaicism of the cervix: (Ob/Gyn) related to the
appearance of a pattern.
Mosaic heart valve:
(Cardio)
brand of porcine heart valve.
mosaic wart: (Derm) numerous warts
growing closely together, seen in human papillomavirus
Mosher tube/speculum:
(Instrument/Equip)
mosm: abbreviation for milliosmole
mosquito clamp:
(Instrument)
motility: ability to move.
mottled appearance: spotting, patches of color (NOT “modeled” in
this case).
moulage: the simulation of injuries for instructional
purposes.
Moure esophagoscope:
(Equip)
Movana: (OTC/Herb) herbal supplement containing
MoviPrep: (Rx) used to prep colon before colonoscopy.
moxa: (Alt Med) see
below under “moxibustion”.
MOXCON Trial: (Clinical Study) Moxonidine
Congestive Heart Failure trial.
moxibustion: (Alt Med)
often used with acupuncture to treat pain; uses heat, leave from the Mugwort plant either rolled into sticks for indirect
moxa or powdery substance is made into cores and burned in ointment or
ginger slices for direct moxa.
moxifloxacin: (Rx) generic for Vigamox; ophthalmic.
Moya Moya disease: (Neuro) motor paresis in
the young or apoplectic stroke in the middle-aged.
Moynahan syndrome:
consists
of mental retardation, delayed hair growth, epilepsy (Dorland’s).
Moynihan forceps:
(Instrument)
Moynihan-Navratil
speculum: (Instrument)
Moynihan test:
(GI) for hourglass stomach (Dorland’s).
Mozart effect: (Research) research that found college
students perform better academically after listening to 10 minutes of Mozart.
6-MP: (Rx) mercaptopurine; drug used in cancer
chemotherapy as well as for treatment of Crohn disease.
M-PACT: brand of medical supplies; heel pads, walkers, etc.
MPC: (Abbrev) mucopurulent cervicitis.
MPL vaccine adjuvant: used in preventing infectious diseases and
allergies.
MPP: (Ophth/Abbrev) massive
periretinal proliferation.
MPT: (Abbrev)
multiple parameter telemetry, see below.
MPTP parkinsonism: (Neuro) caused by illicitly manufactured
meperidine which caused parkinsonism. MPTP is the abbreviation for the chemical
name of the manufactured meperidine.
MQSA: Mammography Quality
Standards Act; regulation that requires mammography clinics to mail patients
results of mammograms within 30 days of the test, results need to be clear and
easy to comprehend.
MRA: (Abbrev) for magnetic
resonance angiography or arteriography.
MR fast scan: (Radio) also called quick scan or fast scan.
mrem: measurement of radiation dose in photon
absorptiometry and CT scanning.
MRI: magnetic
resonance imaging.
MRN: (Neuro) magnetic resonance
neurography; imaging of nerves.
MRSA: (Inf
Dis) methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
infection, considered a “super infection”, sometimes pronounced by the
abbreviation as “mer-sa”; see also MSSA.
MRT: (Radio) magnetic resonance tomography.
MSFC: (Acronym) Multiple
Sclerosis Functional Composite; scale to measure disability in MS patients.
MSI: (Neuro) magnetic source
imaging; used to study brain function.
MSLT: Multiple Sleep Latency Test; measures how fast
patient falls asleep.
MSM: (Homeopathy) methylsufonylmethane;
OTC dietary supplement used to treat arthritis, allergies, etc.
MSSA: methicillin-sensitive
Staphylococcus aureus infection; see also MRSA.
MSX syndrome: multinucleate sphere X.
MTF: (Trial) Monitoring the Future Study (see above).
99m-Tc-hexamtheylpropyleneamine
oxime: (Chem)
MUC2: (Onc/Lab)
cancer pathology term.
mucid degeneration:
aka, mucoid
degeneration of the myocardium or conversion of any connective tissue into
a mucoid, or jelly-like substance.
mucin clot test:
(Lab/Rheum)
test of synovial fluid for arthritis.
Mucinex: OTC (Rx not required, but kept
“behind the counter” in pharmacy) long-acting expectorant containing
guaifenesin.
Muck tonsil forceps:
(Instrument)
mucociliary blanket: (Pulmonary) referring to the mucus covering the
respiratory epithelium.
Mucomyst: (Rx)
acetylcysteine; antidote for acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose, toxicity; also
used to thin pulmonary secretions.
mucopolysaccharidosis: a group of disorders that cause excessive
accumulation of mucopolysaccharides resulting in a multitude of body diseases
with skeletal deformities, mental retardation, decreased life expectancy, i.e.,
Hurler syndrome, Scheie syndrome, Morquio disease, etc.
mucopurulent cervicitis (MPC): (GYN)
inflammation of the cervix with mucous drainage, variety of causes.
mucorrhea: (GI) mucous diarrhea.
mucosalized: per Dr Koslov (Pediatrics), means covered with a
mucosal layer.
mucosal proctectomy and ileoanal pull-through: for ulcerative colitis.
mucous: adjective; as in mucous membrane, mucous plug,
mucous cyst, mucous tumor, mucous fistula, etc.
mucus: noun; as in cervical mucus, production of mucus,
etc.
Mueller sports drink: (Nutrition) salt-free
product that replaces nutrients lost during workouts or athletic competition
(similar to Gatorade, just different brand name).
Mueller total hip:
(Ortho)
Mueller vena cava clamp: (Instrument)
Mueller-Charnley hip prosthesis: (Ortho)
Muenster cast:
(Ortho)
wrist, elbow.
Muenster cheese:
(Food)
softer, mild cheese with a reddish coating.
Muer anoscope: (Instrument)
MUGA scan: multiple gated acquisition (gated blood pool
study).
Mulder click: (Pod) click heard on compression distal to
metatarsal heads to heel.
mullein oil: (Homeopathy) OTC used as ear drops for otitis media and
earache, also topically on the skin for sunburn, stretch marks, etc.
mullein/garlic ear drops: (Homeopathy) OTC for
earaches, otitis media.
Muller maneuver.
Muller osteotomy/plate: hip
Mullins sheath: (Cardio).
Multi-12: (Rx)
multivitamins by infusion for patients receiving parenteral nutrition.
MultiDim: (Cardio/Equip) SPECT 30 quantification protocol for
cardiac studies.
multiforme, glioblastoma: (Onc) type of brain tumor
which grows and spreads quickly.
MultiLight system: (Derm) for long-term hair removal
and treatment of benign vascular and pigmented lesions.
multiloculated: having many compartments.
multilumen probe: (Equip/GI)
multimodal rehab program: using multiple modalities for treatment.
multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN): familial disorder.
multiple myeloma: (Onc) bone
disease
MultiPlex Series 100 Fluid Management System: (Equip) can administer up to 10 drugs through
2 lines.
multiple parameter telemetry (MPT): Device worn by patient for continuous monitoring of
BP, heart, and pulse rates, information relayed by radiofrequency back to
hospital.
MultiPlus Solution: OTC contact lens solution;
aka, ReNu MultiPlus Solution.
Multi Podus boot:
(Device) bracing system for foot and ankle
abnormalities.
MultiPulse laser: (Equip) brand of CO2
laser.
multipuncture (tine) test: (Inf
Dis/Lab) for tuberculosis.
Multispatula: (GYN/Instrument) used for cervical
specimen collection.
Multistix Pro:
(Equip)
UA test strips, to test for kidney disease.
Mumford procedure/arthroscopy: (Ortho)
shoulder.
Mumford-Gurd procedure: (Ortho)
clavicle, shoulder.
Mumford-Neer procedure: (Ortho) shoulder, rotator cuff.
Munchausen disorder:
(Psych) a disorder in which the
patient manufactures or fabricates their own illness for medical attention.
Munchausen by proxy:
(Psych) a disorder where a
caretaker, usually a parent, will exaggerate or fabricate the illness of
another person, especially a child in order to get attention for themselves.
Munro brain scissors:
(Instrument)
muramic acid: (Chemistry) amino sugar
found in cell walls of many bacteria.
muriatic acid:
(Chem/Allergy) chemical used to disinfect swimming pools,
hot tubs, etc., may be an allergen or cause a reaction in some people.
murine monoclonal antimelanoma
antibody: (Onc) cancer therapy.
Murine eye drops : OTC eye lubricant, anti-redness.
murine tumor: caused by a virus, produces
solid tumors.
Murless head extractor: (OB-GYN) for cesarean sections.
Murphy-Lane bone skid: (Equip) used for femoral head.
Murphy-Pattee test:
(Lab)
method of measuring T4, free thyroxine.
Murphy sign: (GI) usually indicating
acute cholecystitis.
Murray knee prosthesis: (Ortho)
muscarinic receptors:
proteins
which combine with acetylcholine to cause slowed heart rate & stimulation
of smooth muscle contraction.
muscarinic side effects: mushroom poisoning,
including GI upset, liver/kidney damage, CNS effects, can lead to death; also
called “mycetism”.
muscle dysmorphia:
(Psych)
a newly defined psychiatric diagnosis in which muscular patients, men in
particular, often body builders and serious weight lifters, still see
themselves as weak and thin when they look in the mirror.
muscle slips.
MUSE device: (Uro) medicated
urethral system for erection; system for treatment of impotence.
mushroom catheter: (Uro) retained.
mushrooming:
(X-ray) enlargement of the ends and
shafts of bones.
mushroom worker’s lung: (Pulm)
hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
Muskie or Musky: slang name for a type of fish, short for
muskellunge, so either spelling is acceptable.
Mustard iliopsoas transfer: (Ortho)
Mustarde awl: (Ophth).
Mustarde otoplasty:
(ENT) referring to a plastic surgery technique for
prominent ears usually.
Mustargen: (Rx) generic =
mechlorethamine; cancer drug.
“mute” point–NO, see
moot point.
mutton-fat keratic precipitates: (Ophth) coalescent plaques that eventually become
more translucent.
Mv photons.
MVI: (Rx) multivitamins by infusion.
MVV: (Abbrev/Pulm) maximum
voluntary ventilation or maximum volume ventilation.
M-W: (Pulm/Condition)
Mikity-Wilson disease of the lungs, resembling bronchopulmonary dysplasia on
chest x-ray.
MW 2000: (Derm/Equip) pulsed microwave delivery system for
hair removal. (2001).
myalgic encephalomyelitis.
myasthenia gravis: disorder of gradually degenerating muscle
tissue in one part of the body or throughout the entire body.
mycelium: (NOTE- plural = mycelia) the mass of threadlike
processes (hyphae) constituting fungal thallus, or simple undifferentiated
plant body.
Mycobacterium: a large genus of bacteria of the family
Mycobacteriaceae.
Mycobacterium Cell Wall Complex (MCC): (Onc)
anticancer (melanoma) treatment (2001).
Mycobacterium
chelonae: (Bacteria) a
species of bacteria; note that the original spelling was thought to be
“chelonei”; however, that is incorrect, use the above spelling, chelonae; also
Mycobacterium chelonae abscessus.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis: pathogenic species that is
the causative agent of tuberculosis in man.
mycophenolic acid: (Rx) generic
for Myfortic; prevent organ rejection in transplants.
Mycoplasma: a genus of bacteria of the family Mycoplasmataceae.
Mycoplasma hominis: a common parasitic inhabitant of the vagina
and cervix and a potential human pathogen, causing infections in both male and
female reproductive tracts. It has been associated with respiratory disease and
pharyngitis as well.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae: a species causing mild
respiratory tract disease and atypical pneumonia.
myelodiastasis:
(Neuro) softening and destruction, separation of the spinal cord.
myelodysplasia:
(Neuro) general classification of defective development of the spinal
cord, which includes myelomeningocele, spinal dysraphism, sacral agenesis, and
caudal regression syndrome.
myelogram, metrizamide: (Radio) a radiograph of the spinal cord
using the radiopaque medium of metrizamide.
myeloparalysis:
(Neuro) spinal paralysis.
myelorrhagia:
(Neuro) hemorrhage into the spinal cord.
myelorrhaphy, commissural: (Proc) suture of a
wound of the spinal cord.
myelosuppression: inhibiting bone marrow activity.
Myers solution: patented instrument and technique to close
groin wound used to introduce cardiac catheter.
Myerson sign: (Neuro) sustained blink
response, seen in Parkinson disease.
Myfortic: (Rx) mycophenolic acid;
immunosuppressant for kidney transplants.
Mylar sheeting:
thin
reflective sheeting material; often used to prevent hypo/hyperthermia; you will
see these handed out and wrapped around athletes or runners at the end of
marathons, triathlons, etc.
Myleran: (Rx) busulfan; treatment
for cancers of the blood.
Myles forceps:
(Instrument)
used mainly for nasal procedures.
Mylocel: (Rx) generic = hydroxyurea, 1,000-mg tablet, cancer
drug therapy (2001).
mylohyoid groove, line, muscle, ridge: (Anatomy) mandible.
Myloral: (Neuro) investigational
drug for treatment of MS.
Mylotarg: (Rx)
generic = gemtuzumab ozogamicin; drug
for treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (FDA 2002).
Myobloc: (Rx) botulinum toxin B injection, approved in 2000
for the treatment of cervical dystonia. (FDA).
myocardial contrast echocardiography imaging
technique: (Cardio/Radio) MCE.
myocardial infarction: (MI) necrosis to heart
muscle.
myocardial
infarct imaging: (Cardio) also called “hot
spot study”.
myocardial laser revascularization : (Cardio) MLR; treatment of angina pectoris and
myocardial ischemia.
myocardial
perfusion study: (Cardio) done at exercise and at rest, to evaluate
heart health.
myocarditis, types of: (Cardio) bacterial, spirochetal, rickettsial,
protozoal, helminthic.
Myocet: (Rx) generic
= doxorubicin; drug for breast cancer treatment (2000).
myochrome, myochromic: albuminous substance in
the serum from red-colored muscles.
myoclasis: intentional crushing of muscle.
myoclonic seizure: (Neuro) seizure associated with rapid
twitching of muscles.
myocutaneous: relating to muscle and skin.
myoelectric control prosthesis: (Equip) type of extremity prosthesis
which uses some muscle function.
myofascial: of or relating to the fascia surrounding muscle
tissue.
myofascitis: inflammation of the muscle and its fascia (NOTE-
Often seen as “myofasciitis”, which is not correct).
myofibril: Long
cylindrical organelle of striated muscle, composed of regular arrays of thick
and thin filaments and constituting the contractile apparatus.
myometrium: (GYN/Anatomy) muscle coat of uterus.
myometrial: pertaining to “ ”.
myoneurectomy:
(Procedure) surgical interruption of muscle and nerve fibers.
myoneuroma: tumor
of muscle and nerve system tissue.
myoneurosis: abnormal muscle/nerve condition.
myostasis: muscle stretching.
Myostim unit: (Equip) type of TENS unit.
myotenontoplasty:
(Procedure) myotenoplasty also acceptable;
surgical repair of muscles and tendons.
myotome distribution: (Neuro) of nerves.
myotonic discharges (on EMG): (Neuro) single muscle fiber action
potentials.
Myoview: (Cardio) used in
pharmacological stress tests for patients unable to exercise.
MyoVive: (Nutrition) OTC dietary
supplement liquid to promote cardiac health.
myrmecia warts:
(Derm)
deep plantar or palmoplantar warts.
myxedema: (Endocrine) severe hypothyroidism; clinical
features are dry skin, coarse hair, intolerance to cold, cognitive impairment
and slowing of the relaxation phase of deep tendon reflexes.
myxomatous cells: found
in intervertebral disks.
myxoma syndrome: cardiac myxoma, pigmented skin lesions,
peripheral and endocrine neoplasms, lentiginosis, myxomas, neurofibromas, and
blue nevi.
Myxomycetes: A class of
fungi containing the slime molds, which occur on rotting vegetation but are not
pathogenic for humans.
myxopoiesis: mucus production.
M-Zole 3 , M-Zole 7
combination pack: (GYN) OTC product for treatment of yeast
infections, contains miconazole.