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Cancer and Blood Disorders glossary of related terms
A
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
A disease, caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which kills or impairs cells of the immune system and progressively destroys the body's ability to fight infections and certain cancers. HIV is most commonly spread in teens and adults by sexual contact with an infected partner. HIV is most commonly spread in infants and children by vertical transmission from an infected mother while in the womb or during delivery.
Adenoids
Lymphoid tissue in the throat behind the palate.
Adrenaline
One of two chemicals (the other is norepinephrine) released by the adrenal gland that increases the speed and force of heartbeats. It dilates the airways to improve breathing and narrows blood vessels in the skin and intestine so that an increased flow of blood reaches the muscles and allows them to cope with the demands of exercise. It also is a drug that can be given in anaphylactic emergencies. It also is known as epinephrine.
Allergy
An acquired, abnormal immune response to a substance that can cause a broad range of inflammatory reactions.
Allergen
The substance that triggers an allergic reaction.
Allergic Rhinitis
Swelling of the inside of the nose, usually leading to a runny nose and itching of the eyes and nose.
Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation
The donor shares the same genetic type as the child. Stem cells are taken either by bone marrow harvest or apheresis (peripheral blood stem cells) from a genetically-matched donor, usually a brother or sister.
Anaphylactic Shock
A sudden, severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction caused by food allergy, insect stings or medications. Symptoms can include hives, swelling (especially of the lips and face), difficulty breathing (either because of swelling in the throat or an asthmatic reaction), vomiting, diarrhea, cramping and a drop in blood pressure. It also is known as anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis
A sudden, severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction caused by food allergy, insect stings or medications. Symptoms can include hives, swelling (especially of the lips and face), difficulty breathing (either because of swelling in the throat or an asthmatic reaction), vomiting, diarrhea, cramping and a drop in blood pressure. It also is known as anaphylactic shock.
Anemia
A common blood disorder that occurs when there are fewer red blood cells than normal, or there is a low concentration of hemoglobin in the blood.
Antibody
A protein that is manufactured by lymphocytes to neutralize or destroy an antigen or foreign protein. Many types of antibodies are protective against infection. Rarely, antibodies are produced against tissues in the body resulting in illness (autoimmune disease). It also is known as immunoglobulin.
Antigen
A substance that can trigger an immune response causing the production of antibodies as part of the body's defense against infection and disease.
Antihistamine Drugs
A group of drugs that block the effects of histamine, a chemical released in body fluids during an allergic reaction.
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs/Medications
Drugs or medications that reduce the symptoms and signs of inflammation.
Appendix
A small pouch attached to the first portion of the large intestine (the cecum); it has no known function.
Arthritis
Inflammation of the joints.
Asthma
A chronic, inflammatory lung disease characterized by recurrent breathing problems usually triggered by allergens.
Autoimmune Deafness
Hearing loss that may be associated with an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Autoimmune Diseases
Conditions in which the body makes antibodies against one's own normal body chemicals. In these diseases, antibodies cannot tell antigens in the inside of the cell from antigens outside of the cell. When the antibodies attack the internal cells, the reactions can be local - in just a small area, or systemic - throughout the whole body. The skin and connective tissues (cartilage, bone, tendons) are most affected but other tissues can be affected, as well, including nerve and muscle.
Autoimmune lymphoproliferative disorders (ALPS)
There are many different disorders that affect a child's immune system. Many of these diseases are treated in the Primary Immunodeficiency Program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. They also are known as immunodeficiencies, immune deficiencies, primary immunodeficiencies or primary immune deficiencies.
Autosomal Dominant Inheritance
When a genetic condition is caused by a change in a gene on one of the first 22 pairs of chromosomes, which, when present in one copy, causes a trait or disease to be expressed.
Autosomal Recessive Inheritance
When a genetic condition is caused by a change in a gene on one of the first 22 pairs of chromosomes, which, when present in two copies, causes a trait or disease to be expressed. |
B
B-Cell
B cells are lymphocytes that play a large role in the humoral immune response as opposed to the cell-mediated immune response that is governed by T cells.
Biopsy
A procedure in which tissue samples are removed from the body for microscopic examination to establish a diagnosis.
Blood
The life-maintaining fluid which is made up of plasma, red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes) and platelets. Blood circulates through the body's heart, arteries, veins and capillaries; it carries away waste matter and carbon dioxide, and brings nourishment, electrolytes, hormones, vitamins, antibodies, heat and oxygen to the tissues.
Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinic
The Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinic at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin treats infants and children with blood disorders, childhood cancer and other diseases affecting the bone marrow.
Blood and Marrow Transplant Program
Children's Hospital of Wisconsin pioneered blood and bone marrow transplants in children in Wisconsin in 1980. Now the program is internationally recognized and consistently achieves survival rates statistically above the national average.
Blood Banking
The process that takes place in a laboratory to ensure that the donated blood or blood products are safe before they are used for blood transfusions or other medical procedures.
Blood Clot
A thick, gelled mass of blood.
Blood Clot Filters
A small filter is inserted into a blood clot to catch and break up blood clots.
Blood Gas
A blood sample taken from an artery that measures the amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, as well as the acidity or pH of the blood.
Blood Plasma
The fluid part of blood that contains nutrients, glucose, proteins, minerals, enzymes and other substances.
Bone Marrow
The soft, spongy tissue found inside bones. It is the site of development and storage of about 95 percent of the body's blood cells.
Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy
The marrow may be removed by aspiration or a needle biopsy under local anesthesia. In aspiration biopsy, a fluid specimen is removed from the bone marrow. In a needle biopsy, marrow cells (not fluid) are removed. These methods often are used together.
Bone Marrow Harvest
Bone marrow harvesting involves collecting stem cells with a needle placed into the soft center of the bone, the marrow. Most sites used for bone marrow harvesting are located in the hip bones and the sternum. The procedure takes place in the operating room. The donor will be anesthetized during the harvest and will not feel the needle. In recovery, the donor may experience some pain in the areas where the needle was inserted.
Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)
The transfusion of healthy bone marrow cells into a person after their own unhealthy bone marrow has been eliminated.
Bronchitis
An inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchial tubes, causing a persistent cough that produces considerable quantities of sputum (phlegm).
Bronchodilators
A group of drugs that widen the airways in the lungs.
Bronchiole
A small airway (subdivision of the bronchus) that leads to areas of the lung and absorbs oxygen from the air.
Bronchus
Any of the larger air passages that connect the trachea to the lungs. |
C
Cancer
Cancer is not just one disease but rather a group of diseases. All forms of cancer cause cells in the body to change and grow out of control. Most types of cancer cells form a lump or mass called a tumor. The tumor can invade and destroy healthy tissue.
Cancer and Blood Disorders Center
The Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin provides treatment for infants, children, teens and young adults with blood disorders including cancer, non-malignant blood diseases, immunodeficiency states and bleeding disorders. The center also is committed to expanding research and teaching efforts to enhance the national recognition and prominence of the program.
Cancer Care Team
The group of health care professionals who work together to find, treat and care for people with cancer.
Cancer Cell
A cell that divides and multiplies uncontrollably and has the potential to spread throughout the body, crowding out normal cells and tissue.
Cancer Treatment
Administering cancer medications directly to the tumor site.
Candida
One type of vaginitis caused by the candida fungus characterized by itching, burning or redness of the vaginal area. It causes irritation and infection, especially of the mucous membranes of the body such as the mouth, vagina and anus. It also is known as yeast infection.
Candidiasis
A fungal skin infection caused by yeast that can occur in the skin folds, the navel, vagina, penis, mouth and nail beds.
Celiac Disease
A sensitivity to gluten, a wheat protein. Individuals with this disease must avoid gluten-containing grains, which include all forms of wheat, oats, barley and rye. It also is known as celiac sprue or gluten sensitive enteropathy.
Chemotherapy
A medicine that can help fight cancer.
Chromosomes
Structures in our cells that carry genes, the basic units of heredity. Each cell within the human body contains 46 of these threadlike structures (23 from the mother and 23 from the father). Each chromosome can contain hundreds or thousands of individual genes.
Clostridium Difficile
Bacteria normally found in the large intestine, which can cause a serious intestinal infection and diarrhea in some people who are taking antibiotics. It also is known as C. diff or C. difficile.
Clotting
The sealing of a blood vessel with coagulated blood.
Coagulation Disorder
An inherited bleeding disorder caused by low levels, or absence of, a blood protein that is essential for clotting. Hemophilia A is caused by a lack of the blood clotting protein factor VIII; hemophilia B is caused by a deficiency of factor IX. It also is known as hemophilia.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A measurement of size, number and maturity of the different blood cells in a specific volume of blood.
Congenital Heart Defect
A heart problem present at birth, caused by improper development of the heart during fetal development. It also is known as congenital heart disease.
Cooley's Anemia
Thalassemia is an inherited disorder that affects the production of normal hemoglobin (a type of protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues of the body). Thalassemia includes a number of different forms of anemia. The severity and type of anemia depends upon the number of genes that are affected. Beta thalassemia is caused by mutations in the beta chain of the hemoglobin molecule. It also is known as beta thalassemia.
Corticosteroids
A group of anti-inflammatory drugs similar to the natural corticosteroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands.
Cryptosporidium
Cryptosporidium, often referred to as "crypto," is a tiny parasite that can live in the intestines of humans and animals. The parasite is protected by an outer shell that allows it to survive outside the body for long periods of time and makes it very resistant to chlorine disinfection. |
D
Dermatitis
An inflammation of the skin usually resulting in redness and pain, occasionally with itching.
DiGeorge Syndrome
A genetic disease caused by a missing piece of chromosome material on chromosome #22 that results in many different health problems and affects the normal fetal development of the heart, thymus and parathyroid glands. It also is known as Shprintzen syndrome, 22q11.2 Deletion syndrome and Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome (VCFS). Children's Hospital of Wisconsin offers a multidisciplinary clinic designed to address the various medical, educational and psychosocial needs of the children and their families with these syndromes.
Digestive System
The group of organs that break down foods into chemical components that the body can absorb and use for energy, and for building and repairing cells and tissues. |
E
Eczema
Inflammation of the skin, usually causing itching and sometimes accompanied by crusting, scaling or blisters. It is a skin disorder that is characterized by itching, scaling, thickening of the skin and is usually located on the face, elbows, knees and arms. It also is known as atopic dermatitis.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
A test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias) and detects heart muscle damage. It also is known as exercise electrocardiogram.
ELISA test (enzyme linked immunosorbent assay)
A laboratory test used to find certain antibodies; sometimes used to diagnose allergies and HIV.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
A test using an endoscope to send dye through the digestive tract. The dye shows up on x-ray and gives the physician a look at the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Endoscopy
A test that uses an endoscope to examine the inside of part of the digestive tract.
Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis
Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is a rare and heterogenous condition characterized by eosinophils infiltrating gastrointestinal (GI) tissue.
Eosinophils
A type of white blood cell that can increase in allergy and other infections.
Epinephrine
One of two chemicals (the other is norepinephrine) released by the adrenal gland that increases the speed and force of heartbeats. It dilates the airways to improve breathing and narrows blood vessels in the skin and intestine so that an increased flow of blood reaches the muscles and allows them to cope with the demands of exercise. It also is a drug that can be given in anaphylactic emergencies. It also is known as adrenalin.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
A test using an endoscope to look at the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. Tissue samples can also be taken to test for diseases. It also is known as upper endoscopy.
Extrinsic Asthma
Asthma that is triggered by an allergic reaction, usually to something that is inhaled. |
F
Failure to Thrive
Failure to grow and gain weight; often due to increased energy expenditure with congenital heart disease.
Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH)
A laboratory technique used to determine how many copies of a specific segment of DNA are present or absent in a cell.
Food Intolerance
An adverse food-induced reaction that does not involve the immune system. Lactose intolerance is an example. |
G
Gastroenteritis
Irritation or infection of the stomach and intestines. May be caused by bacteria or parasites, irritating food, stress or emotional upset.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Movement of food, fluids and digestive juices from the stomach back up into the esophagus; causes irritation of the esophagus with acid, resulting in discomfort. GERD occurs when the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, opens when it should stay closed, or is weak.
Gastrostomy
Refers to a surgical opening into the stomach.
Genetic Counseling
Providing an assessment of heritable risk factors and information to patients and their relatives concerning the consequences of a disorder, the probability of developing or transmitting it, and ways in which it can be prevented, treated, and managed. Genetic counseling is provided by a physician with specialized training in genetics or a genetic counselor.
Genetic testing
Testing used to identify or confirm the diagnosis of a disease or condition in a person or a family.
Gluten Sensitive Enteropathy
A sensitivity to gluten, a wheat protein. Individuals with this disease must avoid gluten-containing grains, which include all forms of wheat, oats, barley and rye. It also is known as celiac disease or celiac sprue.
Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD)
The condition that results when the immune cells of a transplant (usually of bone marrow) from a donor attack the tissues of the person receiving the transplant.
Granulocytes
A type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection. The types of granulocytes include: basophils, eosinophils and neutrophils. |
H
Hay Fever
An inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose, often due to allergy to pollen, dust or other airborne substances. Hay fever causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose and nasal congestion. It also is known as rhinitis.
Hematocrit
The measurement of the percentage of red blood cells found in a specific volume of blood.
Hematologist
A physician who specializes in the functions and disorders of the blood.
Hematology
The scientific study of blood and blood-forming tissues.
Hematology/Hemophilia Clinic
The Hematology Clinic at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin treats infants and children with blood disorders, childhood cancer and other diseases affecting the bone marrow.
Hematopoiesis
The process of producing and developing new blood cells.
Hematuria
The presence of red blood cells in the urine.
Hemoglobin (Hgb)
A type of protein in the red blood cells that carries oxygen to the cells and tissues of the body.
Hemoglobin S-Beta Thalassemia
Having one copy of the gene which causes sickle cell anemia (HbS) and one copy of a mutated gene in the beta-chain of hemoglobin; this blood disorder produces a moderate anemia and some symptoms similar to sickle cell anemia.
Hemolysis
The destruction of red blood cells by the body.
Hemolytic Anemia
One type of anemia in which the red blood cells are destroyed prematurely.
Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn
A condition that occurs when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and baby, causing breaking down of red blood cells.
Hemophilia
A bleeding disorder caused by a gene on the X chromosome; an inherited bleeding disorder caused by low levels, or absence of, a blood protein that is essential for clotting. Hemophilia A is caused by a lack of the blood clotting protein factor VIII; hemophilia B is caused by a deficiency of factor IX. It also is known as coagulation disorder.
Hemophilia A
A blood clotting disorder caused by a gene on the X chromosome.
Hemophilia B
A blood clotting disorder caused by a deficiency of factor IX.
Histamine
A chemical present in cells throughout the body that is released during an allergic reaction and causes inflammation and one of the substances responsible for the symptoms of allergy, such as itching, sneezing or wheezing.
Hives
A condition in which red, itchy and swollen areas appear on the skin - usually as an allergic reaction from eating certain foods or taking certain medications. It also is known as urticaria.
Hypertension
Blood pressure that is above the normal range. It also is known as high blood pressure. |
I
IgE Antibody
One of the antibodies made by the body found mostly in the skin, nose, lining of the airways and lungs. They are involved in allergic reactions.
Immune Deficiencies
There are many different immune system deficiencies affecting children that require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Many of these diseases are treated in the Primary Immunodeficiency Program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. Also known as immunodeficiencies, primary immunodeficiencies, or primary immune deficiencies.
Immune response
Any defensive reaction to foreign material by the immune system.
Immune System
A collection of cells and proteins that works to protect the body from potentially harmful, infectious microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
A blood disorder characterized by an abnormal decrease in the number of blood platelets, which results in internal bleeding. There are two forms of ITP: acute ITP and chronic ITP.
Immunity
A state of having sufficient biological defenses to avoid infection, disease or other unwanted biological invasion, and is related to the functions of the immune system.
Immunocompromised
A person who has an immunodeficiency is said to be immunocompromised.
Immunodeficiencies
There are many different genetic disorders that can affect a child's immune system. Some include severed combined immunodeficiency, common variable immunodeficiency, DiGeorge syndrome and X-linked agammaglobulinemia. They all are treated in the Primary Immunodeficiency Program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. It also is known as immune deficiency, primary immune deficiency or primary immunodeficiency.
Immunodeficiency Program
The Primary Immunodeficiency Program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin offers diagnosis and treatment of complex primary immune deficiencies (non-AIDS). Our goal is to make an accurate and early diagnosis, which is critical in patients with severe immunodeficiencies.
Immunoglobulin E (IgE)
A type of antibody which attaches to mast cells in the respiratory and intestinal tracts and may cause allergic rhinitis, asthma or eczema.
Immunoglobulin
Antibodies or proteins found in blood and tissue fluids produced by cells of the immune system to bind to substances in the body that are recognized as foreign antigens. Immunoglobulins sometimes bind to antigens that are not necessarily a threat to health and provoke an allergic reaction.
Immunosuppression
A state in which the ability of the body's immune system to respond is decreased. This condition may be present at birth, or it may be caused by certain infections (such as human immunodeficiency virus or HIV), or by certain cancer therapies, such as cancer cell killing (cytotoxic) drugs, radiation and bone marrow transplantation.
Immunosuppressive Medications
Medications that suppress the body's immune system; used to minimize rejection of transplanted organs.
Immunotherapy
Treatment of allergy to substances such as pollens, house dust mites, fungi and stinging insect venom involving giving gradually increasing doses of the substance, or allergen, to which the person is allergic. It also is called desensitization, hyposensitization and allergy shots.
Inflammation
Redness, swelling, heat and pain in a tissue due to chemical or physical injury, infection or allergic reaction.
Inheritance
Used to describe the manner in which a trait or gene is passed from one generation to the next.
Intestinal Flora
The normal bacteria, yeast and fungi found in the intestines that aid in digestion.
Intestinal Mucosa
The lining of the intestines, through which nutrients and water are absorbed into the body.
Intrinsic Asthma
Asthma that has no apparent external cause. |
L
Lactose Intolerance
A person with lactose intolerance lacks an enzyme that is needed to digest milk sugar, which causes symptoms such as gas, bloating and abdominal pain. Lactose intolerance is not an allergic reaction, as it does not involve the immune system.
Leukemia
A cancer of the blood-forming tissue. Leukemic cells look different than normal cells and do not function properly.
Leukocytes
Blood cells involved in the destruction of viruses, bacteria and fungi which cause infection. It also is known as white blood cells (WBCs).
Lymphatic System
Part of the immune system. Includes lymph, ducts, organs, lymph vessels, lymphocytes and lymph nodes, whose function is to produce and carry white blood cells to fight disease and infection.
Lymph nodes
Bean-shaped organs, found in the underarm, groin, neck, chest and abdomen, that act as filters for the lymph fluid as it circulates through the body.
Lymphocytes
Any one of a group of white blood cells of crucial importance to the adaptive part of the body's immune system, involved in fighting infection and disease.
Lymph vessels
Thin tubes that carry lymph fluid throughout the body. |
M
Malabsorption Syndrome
Problems with how the small intestine absorbs nutrients from the foods we eat.
Malignant
A term used to describe cancerous tumors which tend to grow rapidly, can invade and destroy nearby normal tissues and can spread.
Malnutrition
A situation caused by eating a poorly balanced diet, or by not eating enough food to meet the body's needs.
Mast Cells
Cells, which synthesize and store histamines, found in most body tissues, particularly just below the epithelial surfaces, serous cavities and around blood vessels. In an allergic response, an allergen stimulates the release of antibodies, which attach themselves to mast cells.
Mucositis
Inflammation of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
Musculoskeletal System
The complex system that include: bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.
Mutation
A change in the DNA that codes for a gene, which causes a normal working gene to become a non-working gene. |
O
Oncologist
A physician with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Oncology
The branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Oncology Clinic
The Oncology Clinic at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin treats infants and children with blood disorders, childhood cancer and other diseases affecting the bone marrow.
Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist
A registered nurse with a master's degree in oncology nursing who specializes in the care of cancer patients.
Oncology Social Worker
A person with a master's degree in social work who is an expert in coordinating and providing non-medical care to patients. |
P
Palliative Treatment
Treatment that relieves symptoms, such as pain, but is not expected to cure the disease. The main purpose is to improve the patient's quality of life.
Parathyroid Glands
Located in front of the neck, below the larynx (voice box). The parathyroid glands play a role in the regulation of the body's calcium balance.
Passive immunity
The transfer of active humoral immunity in the form of ready made antibodies, from one individual to another.
Peak Flow Meter
A portable, inexpensive, hand-held device used to measure the ability to push air out of the lungs.
Pluripotent Stem Cell
The most primitive, undeveloped blood cell.
Prick Skin Test
A test to determine if a child is allergic to certain substances. A physician places a drop of the substance being tested on the child's forearm or back and pricks the skin with a needle, allowing a tiny amount to enter the skin. If the child is allergic to the substance, a wheal (mosquito bite-like bump) will form at the site within about 15 minutes.
Primary Immune Deficiency
There are many different genetic disorders that can affect a child's immune system. Some include severed combined immunodeficiency, common variable immunodeficiency, DiGeorge syndrome and X-linked agammaglobulinemia. They all are treated in the Primary Immunodeficiency Program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. It also is known as primary immunodeficiency, immunodeficiency or immune deficiency.
Primary Immunodeficiency
There are many different genetic disorders that can affect a child's immune system. Some include severed combined immunodeficiency, common variable immunodeficiency, DiGeorge syndrome and X-linked agammaglobulinemia. They all are treated in the Primary Immunodeficiency Program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. It also is known as primary immune deficiency, immunodeficiency or immune deficiency.
Primary Immunodeficiency Program
The Primary Immunodeficiency Program at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin offers diagnosis and treatment of complex primary immune deficiencies (non-AIDS). Our goal is to make an accurate and early diagnosis, which is critical in patients with severe immunodeficiencies.
Prognosis
The outlook or forecast for recovery or condition in the future. A prediction of the course of disease; the outlook for the cure of the patient.
Protocol
A formal outline or plan, such as a description of what treatments a patient will receive and exactly when each should be given.
Pulmonary Function Tests
Diagnostic tests that help to measure the lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide appropriately. The tests are usually performed with special machines that a child must breathe into. |
R
Radiation Therapy
Treatment with high-energy rays (such as x-rays) to kill or shrink cancer cells. The radiation may come from outside of the body (external radiation) or from radioactive materials placed directly in the tumor (internal or implant radiation).
RadioAllergoSorbent Test, a Trademark of Pharmacia Diagnostics (RAST)
A laboratory test used to detect IgE antibodies to specific allergens. A RAST requires a blood sample, which is sent to a medical laboratory where tests are done with specific foods to determine whether the patient has IgE antibodies to that food. The intradermal form of the RAST is called the Immuno CAP or CAP test.
Reflux
Digestive juices, food and liquids moving backward from the stomach into the esophagus, and possibly into the mouth.
Rejection
An immune system response to transplanted tissues or organs.
Respiratory System
The group of organs responsible for carrying oxygen from the air to the bloodstream and for expelling carbon dioxide.
Rhinitis
An inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose, often due to allergy to pollen, dust or other airborne substances. Rhinitis causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose and nasal congestion. It also is known as hay fever.
Risk Factor
A condition, element or activity that may adversely affect the heart. |
S
Sinuses
Air cavities within the facial bones, lined by mucous membranes similar to those in other parts of the airways. It also is known as paranasal sinuses.
Sinusitis
Inflammation of the membranes lining the facial sinuses, often caused by bacterial or viral infection, or an allergic reaction.
Sickle Cell Anemia (SC)
An inherited blood disorder characterized by defective hemoglobin, where there are two copies of an abnormal hemoglobin gene present (HbSS).
Sickle Cell Disease
An inherited blood disorder characterized by defective hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues of the body).
Sickle Cell - Hemoglobin C Disease
Having one copy of the gene which causes sickle cell anemia (HbS) and one copy of another altered hemoglobin gene (HbC); this blood disorder is similar to sickle cell anemia.
Sickle Cell - Hemoglobin E Disease
Having one copy of the gene which causes sickle cell anemia (HbS) and one copy of another altered hemoglobin gene (HbE); this blood disorder may or may not cause symptoms except under stress (exhaustion, infection, etc.).
Sickle Cell Trait
Having one copy of the gene which causes sickle cell anemia (HbS), and one copy of the normal hemoglobin gene.
Sickle Crisis
In sickle cell diseases, the pain that occurs when the flow of blood is blocked to an area because the sickled cells are stuck in a blood vessel. It also is called pain crisis or vasoocclusive crisis.
Small intestine
The part of the gastrointestinal tract (gut) between the stomach and the large intestine and includes the duodenum, jejunum and the ileum. It is where the vast majority of digestion takes place.
Stem cell
A stem cell (or hematopoietic cell) is the initial phase of all blood cells. As the stem cell matures, several distinct cells evolve such as the red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. |
T
Thymus
Located in the upper part of the chest and produces T-lymphocytes (white blood cells that fight infections and destroy abnormal cells).
Thrombocytopenia
A condition in which there are too few platelets (cells produced in the bone marrow that are needed for clotting).
Thrombolytic Drugs
Medication used to dissolve blood clots.
Thrush
Thrush is caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. It occurs mostly in the neonate and infant.
Thyroid
Located in front of the neck, below the larynx (voice box). The thyroid plays an important role in the body's metabolism and also plays a role in the regulation of the body's calcium balance.
Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)
A means of providing protein, fats, carbohydrates, fluid and vitamins to the body through a special solution given through a vein into the bloodstream. Many people call this "intravenous feedings." |
U
Urticaria
A condition in which red, itchy and swollen areas appear on the skin - usually as an allergic reaction from eating certain foods or taking certain medications. It also is known as hives. |
W
Wheeze
A high-pitched sound from the chest sometimes heard during an asthmatic attack or allergic reaction.
White Blood Cells (WBCs)
Blood cells involved in the destruction of viruses, bacteria and fungi which cause infection. It also is known as leukocytes. |
X
X-Linked Inheritance
A change in a gene on the X chromosome passed through a family, resulting in a specific trait or disease seen more commonly in males than females. |
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