Glossary of Medical Terms

A final diagnosis that is made after getting the results of tests, such as blood tests and biopsies, that are done to find out if a certain disease or condition is present.

The treatment plan for a disease or disorder that has been chosen as the best one for a patient after all other choices have been considered.

A drug used to treat hepatic veno-occlusive disease (a condition in which small veins in the liver are blocked) in patients who have kidney or lung problems after a stem cell transplant. Defitelio may affect the cells that line the inside of blood vessels and may help improve blood flow inside the liver. Also called defibrotide sodium.

A drug used to treat advanced prostate cancer. Degarelix acetate binds to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors in the pituitary gland. This causes the testicles to stop making testosterone. Degarelix acetate may stop the growth of cancer cells that need testosterone to grow. It is a type of GnRH antagonist. Also called Firmagon.

A disease in which the function or structure of the affected tissues or organs changes for the worse over time. Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer disease are examples.

A condition that occurs when the body loses too much water and other fluids that it needs to work normally. Dehydration is usually caused by severe diarrhea and vomiting, but it may also be caused by not drinking enough water or other fluids, sweating too much, fever, urinating too much, or taking certain medicines. Signs and symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, dark-colored urine, urinating less than normal, sunken eyes or cheeks, dry and cool skin, dizziness, fainting, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat, and rapid breathing. Dehydration can be severe, especially in young children and older adults.

A substance being studied in the prevention of cancer. It is a type of steroid. Also called DHEA.

An inflammatory response that develops 24 to 72 hours after exposure to an antigen that the immune system recognizes as foreign. This type of immune response involves mainly T cells rather than antibodies (which are made by B cells). Also called DTH.

A mental state in which a person is confused, disoriented, and not able to think or remember clearly. The person may also be agitated and have hallucinations, and extreme excitement.

Delirium associated with excessive use of alcohol, usually seen as a withdrawal symptom. Features include anxiety, tremors, sweating and vivid and terrifying visual and sensory hallucinations.