344
retrograde amnesia A loss of recent memory. orders as backward mobility. Forceful preven-
retrograde analysis Solving a problem by work- tion of the emerging fetal head is a variety of
ing backward from the answer. retropulsion. This is strictly contraindicated, and
retrograde flow That which is in an opposite is a litigious maneuver.
direction. retrospective falsification That psychiatric
retrograde metamorphosis Pathological, degen- mechanism which achieves ego-preservation.
erative transformation. This includes the intentional/unintentional alter-
retrography Mirror writing — a symptom of cer- ation of painful past events until the patient is
tain brain pathology. This script is written from more emotionally stable and able to handle
right to left. and/or remember these.
retrogression Atrophy, degeneration, involution retrospective study The clinical investigation
of a structureAissue. which may be conducted following recovery or
retroinfection Uterine transmission of infection death.
from the fetus to the mother. retrospondylolisthesis Posterior vertebral dis-
retroiridian Behind the iris. placement.
retrojection Internal lavage of a cavity by retrosternal pulse Venous pulsation which is
syringe. palpable at the suprasternal notch.
retrolental Retrolenticular, posterior to the lens. retroversion Spontaneous/manipulated turning
retrolental fibroplasia (RLF) Retmopathy of pre- of an organ. Fetal acoustic stimulation (FAS) is
maturity. That (usually) bilateral occlusion of being conducted to achieve retroversion of
retinal vessels attributed to high oxygen concen- breech presentation to defer Cesarean section in
trations. When the eyes do not become sight- selected patients (pts).
less at the same time, the parent(s) may retrovirus That which may be oncogenic. Some
express concern about their infant's enlarged contain reverse transcriptase. Retroviridae may
eye. In actuality, this may be the (partially) see- induce mammary carcinoma (CA), lymphoma,
ing eye — The atrophied eye may be blind leukemia, sarcoma.
already. An issue for malpractice, balance must retrusion A force applied to teeth inward or
be achieved between preventing/treating hyaline backward. These teeth are then retroposed.
membrane disease, and preventing blindness. Rett's disorder Following unremarkable perinatal
Cryotherapy is reversing these tragic outcomes, development of the infant, deceleration in head
some of which are multiple births. growth will be noted. Loss of hand skills will
retrolingual Behind the tongue. evolve to stereotypical movements. Trunk move-
retromorphosis Catabolism — tissue destruc- ments and gait become discoordinated, recep-
tion. tive/expressive language development becomes
retroperitoneal fibrosis Ormond's syndrome — impaired, and psychomotor retardation
that fibrotic mass developing behind/outside the becomes marked.
peritoneal cavity. Serious compression of reunient The reunion/union/connection of tissue.
organs (the aorta, ureters, vena cava) may Reuss' color charts Those used in testing for
occur. color blindness. If the subject tests positive, the
retropharyngitis An infection posterior to the multicolored charts will be seen as in one color
pharynx — which may develop serious, life- with no letters.
threatening complications. revascularization Enhancement of compromised
retroplacental Posterior to the placenta and/or circulation, which may be achieved by throm-
uterus. bolytic or surgical intervention.
retroplasia That degeneration to a more rudi- reverberation Continued echoing.
mentary form of cell/tissue. Reverdin's needle That surgical needle with a
retropositioning A backward displacement. lever-controlled eye.
retropulsion Pushing back against force. That reverse peristalsis A critical, life-threatening
seen in some central nervous system (CNS) dis- sign in which fecal emesis (or feces per gas-
345
trointestinal suctioning) is noted. This terminal rhachis The spine.
sign is often regarded as irreversible. If bowel rhachischisis A congenially cleft spine.
signs are absent, the abdomen is regarded as rhagadiform That which is fissured.
"Silent as the tomb." rhaphe A ridge, raphe, seam.
reversion Return to a former state. That genetic rhegma A tear, rupture, fracture.
appearance of a remotely-seen familial trait(s). rheostosis Hypertrophy of long bones, accompa-
review of systems (ROS) An orderly, systematic
and recorded survey obtained by physical exam- nied by streaking osteosis.
ination and comprehensive history. Social, psy- rheumatic fever That inflammatory, systemic,
chiatric, and religious assessment is included.
All systems are surveyed, or deferrals account- febrile disease which may be complicated by
ed for. serious renal/cardiac disease. Many systems
revivication Revivescence — the restoration of may be involved — some asymptomatically.
viability to lifeless tissue(s). Because of residual streptococcal comorbidity,
revulsant That counterirritant which effects the penicillin prophylaxis may be required for surgi-
increase of circulation to an area of inflamma- cal/medical procedures and major infections
tion. That which augments the transfer of dis- throughout life.
ease within the body. rheumatism An acute/chronic illness character-
rewarming The precise and methodical restora- ized by muscular stiffness and inflammation.
tion of body heat to a patient in hypothermia. acute articular rheumatism Rheumatic fever.
Tissue damage will ensue if these attempts are chronic rheumatism That associated with joint
too vigorous. Until the victim becomes nor- disorders — degenerative joint disorders, gout,
mothermic, the progression needs to be grad- joint deformity, rheumatoid arthritis.
ual. muscular rheumatism Those conditions with
Reye's syndrome An acute encephalopathy with muscle spasm, pain, and tenderness — due to
fatty infiltration of lymph nodes and major fibromyositis, myalgia, myositis, torticollis.
palindromic rheumatism Intermittent episodes
organs. This pediatric virus may appear follow- of joint pain, swelling, pain which may last a few
ing an acute viral illness, and carries a high days, only to reappear in another joint. Etiology
mortality rate. This diagnosis should be consid- is unknown, the treatment symptomatic.
ered in children with abnormal liver function and psychogenic rheumatism Symptomatology of
acute onset of encephalopathy. Although the eti- rheumatism which arises under stress.
ology is unknown, the incidence of aspirin soft tissue rheumatism That category of joint
(ASA) during varicella and influenza continues pain conditions which are not caused by joint
to be suspect. Treatment includes careful man- pathology — bursitis, perichondritis, tendinitis,
agement of blood electrolytes accompanied by "tennis elbow", Tietze'sdisease.
intravenous hydration. Frequent neurological rheumatoid arthritis An arthritic inflammation of
assessments must be maintained. Accurate vital the joint featuring edema, cartilagenous hyper-
signs and intake/output records are to be kept. trophy, and pain.
rhabdomyoblastoma Rhabdomyosarcoma — rheumatoid factor Immunoglobulin present in
highly malignant carcinoma, rhabdosarcoma. the blood serum of many rheumatoid arthritics
rhabdomyolysis That acute destruction of skele- — which confirms this diagnosis.
tal muscle which progresses to death. rhexis Herniation of a blood vessel, organ, or tis-
rhabdomyoma Myoma striocellulare, a muscle sue.
tumor. rhigosis The sensation of cold, with shivering.
rhachialgia Spinal pain. Rh immune globulin RhoGAM— gamma globu-
rhachiocampsis Spinal curvature. lin given by injection to the Rh negative mother
rhachioplegia Paralysis of the spine. within 72 hours following delivery or abortion of
rhachioscoliosis An "S" curvature of the lateral an Rh positive infant (living, stillborn or abort-
spine — spinal scoliosis. ed). This is mandatory in the United States —
to break the Rh immune response.
346
rhinalgia Rhinodynia — nasal discomfort/neural- rhinomiosis Surgical reduction of the nose.
gia. rhinonecrosis Tissue erosion of the nasal bones.
Rh incompatability The agglutination/hemolysis rhinopharynx The nasopharynx — nose and
of erythrocytes, which is caused by the anti-Rh throat.
agglutinin. rhinophycomycosis A fungal infection which may
rhinedema Swelling of nasal mucosae. be transmitted from the sinuses to the brain.
rhinesthesia The ability to smell. rhinophyma Acne rosacea — lobular hypertro-
rhinism A nasal quality to the voice. phy with erythema of the nose. (This may sug-
rhinitis Inflamed nasal mucosa(e). gest a history alcohol abuse.)
acute rhinitis Acute coryza — the common rhinoplasty Plastic surgery on the nose.
cold. rhinorrhagia Epistaxis — nasal hemorrhage.
allergic rhinitis Periodic, infrequent sensitivity rhinorrhea Nasal drainage.
of the nasal mucosae to allergens. Vasomotor cerebrospinal rhinorrhea A nasal discharge of
rhinitis. cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
atrophic rhinitis Chronic inflammation with rhinosalpingitis Inflammation of the
shrinking of the mucous membranes, accom- nasal/eustachian mucosae.
panied by laryngitis. rhinoscleroma That chronic infection of the
chronic hypertrophicrhinitis That character- upper respiratory tract, which may result in
ized by edematous nasal mucosae. deformity. Ulceration and pain will be absent,
fibrinous rhinitis Pseudomembraneous film is which might aid the denial, anxiety, and risky
present, coating the nasal mucosae. delay in obtaining medical intervention, and
membraneous rhinitis Endorhinitis, a chronic possible surgical reconstruction.
condition with inflamed mucosae and fibrinous rhinoscope A lighted instrument used to examine
exudate. the nose.
perennial rhinitis Nonseasonal symptomatol- rhinosporidiosis Seen in East India, pedunculat-
ogy. ed polyps on skin and/or mucosae.
vasomotor rhinitis That which may be caused rhinostenosis Rhinocleisis — nasal obstruction.
by a neurovascular imbalance. rhinotomy A nasal incision developed to achieve
rhinitis caseosa Nasal inflammation with sero- drainage.
purulent drainage. rhinotracheitis Nasal/tracheal inflammation.
rhinitis medicamentosa That rebound from rhizotomy The sectioning of a tooth or nerve
over-using topical decongestants for dilation root.
and congestion — which encourages a continu- selective rhizotomy Spinal nerve dissection to
al cycle of overuse. relieve the spasticity of cerebral palsy.
rhinoantritis Nasal inflammation involving a RhoGAM That drug which prevents Rh incompat-
maxillary antra(s). ibility in future pregnancies, when administered
rhinocanthectomy Rhinommectomy — excision hypodermically to Rh negative mothers who
of the inner canthus of the eye(s). delivered/miscarried an Rh positive fetus within
rhinocephaly That congenital anomaly in which 72 hours prior to this injection. If repeated fol-
the nose is anatomically positioned superior to lowing each birth/abortion, the isoimmunization
the fused eyes. response causing erythroblastosis fetalis will be
rhinocheiloplasty Plastic restoration of the upper broken.
lip and nose. rhypophobia Exaggerated disgust over feces,
rhinogenous Of nasal origin. filth.
rhinokyphosis A deformity involving the bridge rhythm A time-measured, movement-measured
of the nose. regularity of function.
rhinolalia Rhinism, rhinophonia — the presence atrioventricular rhythm Nodal rhythm.
of a nasal resonance to the voice. bigeminal rhythm Coupled extrasystoles.
rhinologist A specialist in nasal pathology. biological rhythm That seen in living organ-
347
isms, biological clocks. and body due to a cerebellar lesion.
circadian rhythm Diurnal rhythm — recurrent, clasp-knife rigidity Passive flexion of the
daily biological activity, regardless of environ- joint(s).
mental influence. cog-wheel rigidity That jerking, passive exten-
ectopic rhythm That cardiac rhythm arising sion of a hypertonic muscle.
outside the sinoatrial node. decerebrate rigidity Sustained contraction of
embryocardial rhythm A "tic-tock" rhythm, the extensors due to a brain stem lesion.
indicative of a state of cardiac distress. rigor Paroxysmal chilling due to high fever.
escape rhythm That heart block which origi- Profuse diaphoresis follows.
nates from the sinoatrial node. rima Fissure.
gallop rhythm A cantering rhythm, which is rimula Minute fissures of the brain/spinal cord
abnormal. These heart sounds have 3 audible tissue.
beats in each cycle. Rinne test That performed with a tuning fork, to
idioventricular rhythm Nodal rhythm. That ven- determine sound conduction.
ticular rhythm of heart block, caused by another Ripault's sign External pressure on the eye will
center of rhythmicity in the ventricular cause the pupil to change in shape.
myocardium. ripening Maturation. Development of a cataract.
normal sinus rhythm That cardiographic Softening and dilatation of the cervix during
rhythm which is free of aberration, with a heart labor.
beat in the range of 60-100. risk A potential danger.
ventricular rhythm Bradycardia in the presence risk factor A predisposing condition which points
of a heart block. to a known disease.
rhytidectomy Rhitidectomy — excision of facial risus Laughter.
wrinkles through the modality of plastic surgery. risus sardonicus That oral spasm which appears
rhytidosis Rhitiodosis — that corneal wrinkling as a grimace, due to peritonitis or tetanus. This
which occurs in the reduced tension of the eyes, facial expression resembles a canine snarl.
as may be noted in the moribund. Ritter's disease Generalized impetigo of the
rickets Glisson's disease, osteomalacia, rachitis, neonate. This staphylococcal infection has been
rhachitis — pediatric deformities caused by named "scalded skin syndrome", because of its
deficient vitamin D. Surgical, medical, and/or appearance.
dietary intervention may be indicated. ritual That routine which must be followed in a
rickets fetalis annularis Congenital hypertrophy precise order. Psychiatrically, obsessive-com-
of long bone epiphyses. pulsive activities which the patient must
rickets fetalis micromelica Congenital dwarfing. do/observe in order to lessen/relieve anxiety.
rickettsial diseases Brill's disease, endemic ritual abuse Psychiatrically controversial claims
typhus, epidemic typhus, Q fever,Rocky of cult cannibalism/orgies/pagan "cures".
Mountain spotted fever, scrub typhus, trench ritualistic surgery That procedure performed
fever. without scientific justification — which neither
Riga-Fede's disease Ulceration of the frenum, prevents nor treats illness. Primitive alterations
following abrasion by the lower incisors. of the ears, genitalia, head, lips, skin, and teeth
Rigg's disease Peridontitis. are examples of such ritualistic manipulation.
Rights of Drug Administration Right patient, riziform That which is granular in texture.
Right drug, Right dose, Right route, Right time. Robert's pelvis That transverse contraction
All must be confirmed prior to dosing. caused by sacroiliac osteoarthritis.
rigidity Stiffness, tenseness, inability to be bent. rocking Purposeless, rhythmic, to and fro move-
Psychiatrically, one who adamantly resists ments, usually seen in mothers and infants.
change. Rocking is also a form of self-stimulation. When
cadaveric rigidity Rigor mortis. noted in children/adults who are blind, dis-
cerebellar rigidity Stiffness of the extremities turbed, and/or schizophrenic, this is a part of
348
the pathology. The technique of rocking is used precision, electronic medical instruments. A
in the neurodevelopmental rehabilitation of laminar flow hood/system keeps this isolated
hypotonic patients, as vestibular stimulation. area free from air currents. This is the concept
Rocking may also provide distraction for the behind reverse isolation technique.
patient in acute distress. dust-free room One in which airborne microor-
Rocky Mountain spotted fever ganisms and particulate matter are kept from
Coccidiodomycosis — A self-limiting vasiculitis circulating. This is essential to protect patients
with a macular rash, edema, fever, headache, with burns, transplants, immunocompromised
myalgia, vasomotor erythema. status, and/or protocols such as reverse/protec-
roentgenography Radiography, X-rays. tive isolation.
body section roentgenography Tomography, root resorption of teeth The shortening of dental
computerized axial tomography (CAT)scan. roots due to the pressure of orthodontic appli-
scout film An X-ray taken to rule out (RO) ances, or to endocrine imbalance.
pathology. Rorschach test A psychological testing instru-
spot film An X-ray taken during fluoroscopy. ment, in which ink blots are interpreted.
roentgenoscopy Fluoroscopy. Personality disturbances may be revealed.
Roger's disease Ventricular septal defect. rosacea A syndrome of unknown etiology, in
Rohypnol Stronger than Valium, this "party which facial papules, pustules, and hyperplasia
drug" has been forbidden in the United States. occur.
This street drug has been implicated in a num- Rosenbach's sign That fine tremor of the eyelids
ber sexual violations. It is to be categorized as when closed, as seen in hyperthyroidism. Also
heroin. the absence of the abdominal reflex in hemiple-
Rokitansky's disease Acute yellow atrophy of gia or in intestinal inflammation. That hysterical
the liver. inability to close the eyelids upon command.
rolfing Deep massage of the tissues around roseola infantum Exanthem subitum — a non-
muscles, to enhance the patient's range of communicable dermatitis accompanied by high
motion. fever and splenomegaly, seen in infants.
Romana's sign That painless, unilateral, palpe- Rossolimo's reflex Percussion to the plantar
bral edema, accompanying conjunctivitis. surfaces of the 2nd to 5th toes causes them to
Romberg's disease Progressive deterioration of plantar-flex.
the face. rotated ears Those in a more horizontal position
Romberg's sign Seen in sensory ataxia, the than usually seen.
inability to maintain balance with the feet close Roth's spots Produced by acute, infective endo-
together, eyes closed. Should the patient sway carditis or other systemic infection, small, white
or fall, the test is positive. spots on the retina surrounded by hemorrhagic
rongeur Surgical bone nippers which excise areas.
small amounts of tissue at a time. rouleau Rouleaux — erythrocytes normally
room That area which is reserved for a specific arranged as rolls of coins.
procedure or purpose. Rovsing's sign Palpation of the left lower quad-
birthing room A more recent concept in labor rant produces pain at McBurney's point.
and delivery — the mother remains in a room Royal Free disease Postviral fatigue syndrome.
furnished as a bedroom, for both labor and rub Friction caused by 2 surfaces rubbing each
delivery, sometimes longer. This bed adapts into other.
delivery positions. Emergency apparatus is pericardial friction rub That sound auscultated
readily available, but concealed from view. The with each cardiac beat — as the inflamed peri-
physician and/or patient may opt for the delivery cardium passes over the heart.
room, but the doctor has the authority to pleural friction rub That sound auscultated
require the delivery or operating room. with each respiration — caused by the inflamed
clean room That which is required for delicate, pleural space in which the lung expands and
349
contracts. rule of 9s The formulation used to estimate
rubefacient That which elicits dermal reddening, areas of body surface — especially the vital per-
centages of burned areas.
increased circulation, local congestion.
rubella German measles, roeteln, roteln — an rumination Obsessive preoccupation.
rumination disorder That gurgling and reflux of
acute communicable disease with low grade
fever and maculopapular rash (which soon some profoundly retarded children, as a form of
desquamates). Exposure of pregnant women in self-stimulation.
their first trimester must be strictly avoided. If Rumpf's symptom In neurasthenia, that
such should occur, the doctor must be notified. increased heart rate which occurs when pres-
Those fetal anomalies which result are often sure is applied to a painful site.
severe. runner's high The euphoria/elation which follows
rubella syndrome Cardiac pathology, cataracts, jogging.
and/or deafness. (The manifestations of post-
auricular/suboccipital lymphadenopathy, anthral- rupophobia Rhypophobia — an exaggerated
gia, transient erythematous/pruritic rash may aversion to dirt, feces, filth.
not be recognized as rubella. Central nervous
system/thrombocytopenic complications may be rupture Herniation of an organ/tissue.
seen among adults.) uterine rupture A life-threatening emergency in
congenital rubella syndrome Secondary sen- unrelieved, obstructed labor. A STAT hysterecto-
sorineural deafness, cataracts, microphthalmia, my will be required to save the mother/fetus.
glaucoma, chorioretinitis, patent ductus arterio-
sus, pulmonary artery stenosis, atrial/ventricular rupture of amniotic membranes In labor, the
septal defects, microcephaly, meningoencephali- normal result of a dilating cervix uteri. If deliv-
tis, mental retardation, growth delays, radiolu- ery is imminent and the membranes have not
cent bone disease, hepatosplenomegaly, or ruptured spontaneously, the physician may have
thrombocytopenia purpura. Serious prenatal to rupture this tissue with an obstetrical hook.
risks and congenital rubella syndrome mandate
the vaccination of all but the pregnant woman. rupture of the fallopian tube(s) The outcome of
(Medical personnel should be immune to rubel- an ectopic pregnancy. Before the patient might
la.) even realize she is pregnant, this outcome of an
rubeola Please refer to measles. extrauterine pregnancy is critical, and requires
Rubin test Transuterine insufflation of the fallopi- emergency surgical intervention.
an tubes as fertility testing — to determine
patency. The carbon dioxide flush may prove to rush Street vernacular to describea narcotic
be therapeutic, if an obstructed fallopian tube(s) surge.
becomes cleared.
Rubner's test That determination of carboxyhe- Rush disease Rapid progression of retinopathy
moglobin which is also used to confirm the of prematurity. Flat neovascularization is recog-
presence of urinary glucose/lactose. nized as an omnious sign.
rudimentary Elementary, fundamental, vestigial.
Ruggeri's reflex That increase in heart rate Rust's disease Cervical tuberculosis of the verte-
which may accompany convergence of vision on bra(e).
a close object.
rugosity The presence of wrinkles. rytidosis Rhytidosis, rutidosis — corneal con-
rule A principle, guide. traction preceding death.
ABCD rule That used to predict melanoma by
assessing asymmetry, border irregularity, color
variegation, and diameter of suspicious skin
lesions.
s
Sabin vaccine Live, oral, poliovirus vaccine. salivation Ptyalism.
sabulous Sandy, gritty. sallow A yellow cast.
saccades Rapid eye movements as the eye(s) Salmonella A virulent strain of bacteria which
change focus and gaze. attacks with bloody diarrhea, dehydration, high
saccate Encysted, sacciform — that which is fever, and vomiting. Infant, geriatric, and the
enclosed within a sac. Liquifaction. immunocompromised population are at high
saccharin A chemical sweetener which is calorie- risk of contracting this severe disease. Cases
free. occur also from eating undercooked/raw meat,
saccharorrhea The presence of sugar in body cream products, and inadequately preserved
fluids. foods — especially in the summer. The year of
saccharuria Glucosuria — sugar spilling into the this writing, a rare form of salmonella killed 50
urine. Saccharosuria. visitors to the Lizard/Dragon exhibit in Denver,
sacculated That comprised of small sacs. Colorado, USA. (Reptiles should not be touched,
sacralgia Hieralgia — sacral pain/discomfort. and can transmit salmonella — even when air-
sacrectomy Sacrotomy — partial excision of the borne.) The Denver Zoo has stated, "The Denver
sacrum. Dragons will never go on exhibit again."
sacrocoxalgia Sacroiliac, inflammatory discom- salmonellosis That infestation which causes
fort — sacroilitis, sacrocoxitis. acute gastroenteritis, septicemia, typhoid
sacrolisthesis That sacral deformity in which the (enteric) fever.
last lumbar vertebra is behind the sacrum. salmon patch Hutchinson's corneal patch, as
sactosalpinx Dilation of the fallopian tube(s) due seen in syphilitic keratitis.
to hydrosalpinx/pyosalpinx. salpingectomy Laparosalpingectomy — surgical
saddle block anesthesia That induced by injec- excision of the fallopian tube(s).
tion of an anesthetic agent into the 4th lumbar salpingitis Fallopian inflammation.
interspace — usually for pelvic procedures. eustachian salpingitis Eustachitis.
saddle nose That congenital cartilagenous/bony gonococcal salpingitis That caused by gonor-
absence which leaves a deformity of the bridge rhea.
of the nose due to leprosy or congenital salpingocyesis Salpingocysterocyesis — an
syphilis. ectopic pregnancy which presents a surgical
sadism A lack of empathy/respect for others. emergency before the patient realizes she is
This may be evident in the humiliation, intimida- pregnant.
tion of others — which may include amuse- salpingolithiasis A calculus within the fallopian
ment/enjoyment/infliction of emotional/physical tube.
pain at their expense. salpingo-oophorectomy/ovariectomy Surgical
sexual sadism Engaging in painful behavior for excision of an ovary with its fallopian tube.
erotic purposes. salpingoperitonitis Serosal inflammation of the
Saemisch's ulceration That corneal ulcer caused fallopian tube(s).
by a travelling infectious process. salpingopexy Surgical fixation of a fallopian
sagittal Sagittalis, anteroposterior. tube(s).
St. Vitus' dance Syndenham's chorea. salpingopharyngeal In reference to the eustachi-
sal Salt. an tube(s) and the nasopharynx.
normal saline Isotonic solution (0.9%) — salpingosalpingostomy Anastomosis of the fal-
equal to the salinity of body fluids. lopian tube.
salaam convulsions Bowing movements caused salpingoscope That instrument by which the
by clonic spasms of the eustachian tube and the nasopharynx are visual-
sternocleidomastoid(eus) muscle. ized.
salicylate poisoning ASA (aspirin) toxicity, sali- salpingostenochoria Eustachian tube
cylism. stricture/stenosis.
salivant A stimulant of salivation. salpingostomatomy Reconstruction of a fallopi-
351
an tube opening in the presence of occlusion ring in a long bone. Viciously malignant, ampu-
from scarring. tation becomes the surgical procedure of
salpingo-ureterostomy Surgical anastomosis of choice.
the fallopian tube with the ureter. giant cell sarcoma Myeloid carcinoma (CA)
saltatory spasm Convulsive leg movements. which is seen in bone tissue.
salt-losing syndrome The crucial loss seen in Kaposi's sarcoma That which may complicate
adrenocortical insufficiency — gastrointestinal the course of opportunistic, debilitating infec-
disease, renal pathology. tions — especially in the patient with acquired
salubrious Wholesome. immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
saluresis Sodium chloride excretion in the urine. liposarcoma A rare form of bone cancer in
Sandhoff's disease That rare and terminal form which fat vacuoles are present.
of inherited Tay-Sach'sdisease. lymphangiosarcoma Carcinoma (CA) arising
Sanfilippo's disease Mucopolysaccharidosis III from lymphatic cells/glands.
— an inherited syndrome of major congenital myxosarcoma A mixed, degeneratedtumor —
defects: dwarfism, hepatosplenomegaly, severe myoxma — which is benign.
mental retardation, skeletal anomalies. osteogenic sarcoma That malignancy com-
sanguifacient Sanguinopoietic, hematopoiesis posed of bone tissue.
— that production/conversion of blood. reticulum cell sarcoma Malignant lymphoma.
sanitorium An institution in which the chronically rhabdomyosarcoma Carcinoma (CA) of muscle
ill are given care — many for life. These may be tissue, which can be unrelenting in the pediatric
be identified by specialty. Sanitarium, sanatori- patient.
um. synovial sarcoma This may present as
saphenectomy Surgical ligation and stripping of monoarticular arthropathy, usually in the knee.
the saphenous vein. Painless, radiologically nonspecific, this inva-
saponification Conversion into soap by hydroly- sion of bone cells achieves immense propor-
sis. tions. Radical surgery, radiotherapy, chemother-
sapphism Lesbianism — female homosexuality. apy may be prescribed. Still, recurrenceand
sarcitis Myositis — muscle inflammation. metastasis may follow.
sarcoadenoma Adenosarcoma, adenoma — a sarcomatosis Sarcomatous degeneration. The
glandular tumor. metastasis of sarcoma.
sarcocarcinoma A malignant tumor of a gland. satellitosis Neuroglial cell accumulation about
sarcoidosis That systemic, granulomatous con- the central nervous system neurons — as noted
dition which may present with hypercalcemia in inflammatory/degenerative conditions.
and/or cause a slowly progressive myopathy. In satiety The current state of being well-nourished
turn, this may prompt hepatosplenomegaly, and satisfied.
lymphadenopathy, peripheral neuropathy. Of saturation That solution which can hold no more
unknown etiology, these lesions may affect any solute.
tissue. A prominent hilar adenopathy on chest Saturday night paralysis Musculospiral paralysis
X-ray is confirmatory of this diagnosis, as are — transient paresis occurring in the alcoholic
findings of noncaseating granulomas in who spent the night sleeping on the sidewalk
liver/lymph biopsies. with a compressed musculospiral nerve.
sarcolysis Soft tissue decomposition. saturnism Plumbism, lead poisoning.
sarcoma A malignancy arising from connective satyriasis Satyromania — excessive libido.
tissue. Sayre's jacket That body cast which supports
botryoid sarcoma Uterine carcinoma (CA) of and immobilizes the spinal column.
edematous, pediatric tissues. scabies A highly communicable dermatitis car-
chondrosarcoma Extraskeletal myxoid tumor of ried by mites. The treatment of choice is two
cartilagenous carcinoma (CA). total-body shampoos with a prescribed
Ewing's sarcoma That diffuse myeloma occur- scabieticide. All staff and other patients who
352
came into contact with the scabietic patient scarlatina hemorrhagica Scarlet fever which
must also undergo this treatment, even if presents with bleeding into the skin/mucosae.
asymptomatic. scarlatina maligna That critical, fulminant, lethal
scalenus anticus syndrome Brachial neuritis of form of scarlet fever.
the arm(s). scatemia Scoretemia — toxemia caused by the
scalpel A surgical knife with removable blades. absorption of intestinal contents.
scalping Traumatic removal of the hair and scatology Coprology — the specialty dealing
scalp. Usually an industrial accident, this major with fecal analysis. A prurient fascination with
injury will progress to the patient's demise feces and/or obscenity — particularly that
unless s/he received prompt surgical interven- expressed in print.
tion. scatoma Stercoroma, fecaloma — colonic feces
scalp tourniquet A measure to prevent cranial which mimic an abdominal tumor.
alopecia during intravenous (IV) chemotherapy Schaffer's reflex Compression of the Achilles'
for carcinoma (CA). Ice bonnets may also be tendon will cause flexion of the foot and dorsi-
tried. Neither is fully successful. flexion of the toes.
scan That record of radioactivity from within an Scheie's syndrome Mucopolysaccharidosis.
organ. scheroma Xerophthalmia — an ophthalmic con-
scanning speech Slow and hesitant attempts to dition resulting from insufficient lacrimation.
speak — evidence of cerebellar pathology. Schick test An intradermal injection of diluted
scanty That which is insufficient. diphtheric toxin. This confirms immunity to
scaphohydrocephaly Hydrocephalus in the diphtheria, if negative.
patient with a deformed cranium (scaphocephal- Schilder's disease Adrenoleukodystrophy — a
ism). rare central nervous system (CNS) disease in
scapulalgia Pain in the shoulder blade(s). which atrophied adrenal tissue accompanies dif-
scapular reflex Percussion between the scapulae fuse cerebral demyelination. These critical
causes a muscle contraction. stages deteriorateinto blindness, brain damage,
scapulectomy Surgical excision of the scapula. and death.
scapulodynia Painful muscle inflammation of the Schilling test That used in the diagnosis of pri-
shoulder(s). mary pernicious anemia. The determinant used
scapulohumeral reflex Adduction/outward rota- is radioactive vitamin B12.
tion of the upper arm upon percussion of the Schirmer's test That which measures lacrima-
vertebral border of the scapula. tion.
scapulopexy Surgical fixation of the scapula and schistocelia A congenital fissure of the
the ribs. abdomen.
scarification Percutaneous innoculation with schistocephalus The fetus with a congenital cleft
multiple superficial incisions developed by a of the head.
sharp which is in contact with vaccine. This is schistocormia A fetus with a fissured trunk.
the most efficient mechanism of vaccination. schistocystis The cleft urinary bladder.
sacrificator A sharp (pointed instrument) which schistoglossia A fissured tongue.
is used to achieve innoculation by scratching schistomelus The fetus with a congenital, cleft
the skin. A drop of vaccine is then applied to the extremity(s).
site. schistoprosopia A congenially fissuredface.
scarlatina Scarlet fever — an acute, communica- schistorachis Spina bifida.
ble disease characterized by fever, rash, and a schistosomia The congenitally deformed fetus
shiny, "strawberry tongue". with an abdominal cleft and rudimentary or
scarlatina anginosa Fothergill's disease — absent extremities.
ulcerative pharyngitis with extensive necrosis. schistosomiasis Bilharziasis, a tropical, parasitic
Peritonsillar abscess may follow these serious disease.
complications. schistosternia Schistothorax — a fissured tho-
353
rax. writing in front of them, or they may demand
schizencephaly The congenital anomaly of a lon- that s/he do so.) Delusions evolve out of mis-
construed environmental input. Hallucinations
gitudinal cleft in the fetal skull. may be auditory, gustatory, olfactory, tactile,
schizoblepharia Fissures involving the eyelids. visual. If command hallucinations are perceived,
schizoid personality disorder Essentially, that the patient may lose his/her ability to discern
and resist these "orders". These commands
pervasive indifference toward others, which may be carried out as though God or other
appears in early adulthood. The emotional and authority known to the patient were demanding
expressive affects are noted to be markedly con- the violent act. Autism adds to the mannerisms
stricted. This symptomatology may be noted by and peculiarities of these patients. Those who
the "4 A's" acronym: Affect (inappropriate); cannot comply with their out-patient antipsy-
Associations (loose); Ambivalence; Autistic chotic regimens might be ordered by the Court
mentation. These patients keep their distance to appear for injectable decanoate preparations,
from others, and are indifferent to others' criti- as prescribed by their psychiatrists. This psy-
cism, compliments, or needs. Cold, aloof, and chotic condition can be managed by neurolep-
self-absorbed, these unpredictable patients tics, but not cured. (An irreversible side effect is
often fail to express strong emotions — either tardive dyskinesia.) The prognosis is poor, espe-
positive or negative. Male patients usually do cially for early onset psychosis.
not marry. Female patients may enter into a pas- catatonic schizophrenia Marked psychomotor
sive marriage relationship — if at all. If interac- features may include excitement, mutism, nega-
tion is required at work, occupational function- tivism, posturing, stereotypies. These patients
ing may be impaired, as well as social interac- require close supervision.
tion. disorganized schizophrenia These patients
schizonychia Split nails. present with flat, inappropriate affect, grossly
schizophasia The incomprehensible, mumbled disorganized behavior, and marked loosening of
speech of some schizophrenics. associations.
schizophrenia Manifest at any age, that cumula- childhood onset schizophrenia This may be
tive clinical picture which includes impaired misdiagnosed as attention deficit/hyperactivity
functioning in the areas of activities of daily liv- disorder. (In this case, the last medication these
ing (ADLs), sociality, and employment. The children should receive is a stimulant!) The ear-
diverse symptomatology includes delusions, lier the diagnosis, the more dismal the progno-
disorganized speech and/or behavior, hallucina- sis. There is also a poor prognosis for the child
tions, other negative signs. Disturbed content of with a premorbid personality who presents with
thought may include bizarre, fragmented, and/or cognitive impairment, introversion, shyness,
multiple psychotic aberrations. A large-scale and/or withdrawal prior to the advent of psy-
delusional system may embrace grandiose, chotic symptomatology. Childhood onset is the
nihilistic, somatic, and/or religious themes, con- most insidious form, demonstrating more fre-
trolling the victim's entire life. Formal thought quent neurotic, emotional, conduct, delusional,
disorders may be so severe, it becomes impos- and/or neurotic signs with severe social conse-
sible to converse. (Gesturing may reach and quences.
manage these patients.) Clanging is remarkable juvenile onset schizophrenia This impairment
when present — in which all meaning is forsak- of motoric, social, and language skills presents
en with the relentless rhyming of words. Rarely as premorbid symptomatology. Girls show an
heard, this phenomenon should be recorded earlier onset of psychotic illness around puberty
verbatim and entered into the patient's chart as — which is related to menarche. First-break
indelible indication that the patient was in this (episode) schizophrenia — neuroleptic-naive
phase. (One cannot recall accurately the mean- patients show a greater neurological impair-
ingless association of these words/thoughts, ment.
without writing them down at the time. These
patients are either unaware that the clinician is
354
late-life onset schizophrenia Women are over- es may complicate this picture. Periods of exac-
represented in this category. Multiple impair- erbation, incapacitation, and remission may
ments may be seen in the following areas: encompass several years. Somatic symptoms
Sensory— auditory, visual, olfactory, tactile. and academic failures are common. Coming
Cognitive — chronic, progressive, acute. from caring, close-knit families, these children
Delusional— early-life trauma may reappear as typically experience life stress as a predisposing
a late-life delusional disorder. There may be per- factor. These children may require a tutor.
secutory delusions, and/or unusual hallucina- Schultz' reaction The Dale reaction.
tions. Hearing loss accentuates dementia and Schultze's cells Olfactory cells.
affective flattening. Functional and psychotic Schwann's sheath Neurilemma of the nerve fiber.
exacerbations might be drug-induced. Geriatric sciatica Sharp, burning pain experienced along
patients should not be given PRN benzodi- the path of the sciatic nerve. This is intensified
azepines, cholinergics, nor "PM forms" of over- by movement.
the-counter (OTC) medications. If neuroleptic science That scholarly, orderly approach which
therapy must be given, use microdoses. involves the accumulation of data, analysis of
paranoid schizophrenia Preoccupations are findings, observation, and quantitation of mea-
held embracing systematized delusions or audi- sured results.
tory hallucinations on a single theme. scieropia Abnormal vision in which shadowing
Unfocused anxiety, hostility and/or violence may appears about objects/people.
erupt. Interpersonal interactions may be formal, scintillation Radioactive emissions. That subjec-
intense, or stilted. If the delusional material is tive sensation of seeing sparks where there are
not acted upon, impairment of functioning may none.
be minimal. Paranoid syndromes persist in late- scirrhoma Sclerotic carcinoma (CA).
onset patients. scirrhosarca Sclerema neonatorum — sclerotic
residual schizophrenia Suggested by signs of dermis of the neonate.
illness, after psychotic symptoms following an scirrhus Hypertrophy of fibrous tissue causing a
episode(s) of eccentricity, emotional blunting, sclerotic malignancy.
illogical mentation, loosening of associations, scission Cutting, dividing, dissecting, splitting.
and/or social withdrawal. scissor gait An abnormal gait in which the legs
undifferentiated schizophrenia Prominent psy- are crossed when ambulating — as in some
chotic symptoms which cannot be classified cerebral palsied patterns of walking.
under the above. Sleep deprivation may present scissura A cleft, fissure, split.
as psychosis. sclera Sclerotica — that fibrous tissue which
schizoprosopia The cleft portion of the face. extends from the cornea to the optic nerve.
Schlatter-Osgood disease Osgood-Schlatter dis- blue sclerae That abnormal sign of osteogene-
ease — osteochondritis of the knee(s) of chil- sis imperfecta in which the infant/child sustains
dren. multiple idiopathic fractures without trauma.
Schmorl's disease Schmorl's nodules — rupture This multiple fracturing will continue throughout
of the vertebral nucleus pulposus. the patient's shortened lifespan.
Schonlein's disease Idiopathic thrombocytope- scleradenitis Glandular inflammation/induration.
nia purpura accompanied by joint and abdomi- sclerectasia Scleral prominence.
nal pains. This may be an anaphylactoid/allergic sclerectoiridectomy Surgical treatment of glau-
response. coma by partial excision of the sclera and the
school phobia Scholionophobia. School refusal, iris.
school avoidance — Rather than being a phobic sclerectomy Surgical release of adhesions
disorder, this qualifies as a separation anxiety occurring from chronic otitis media. Subtotal
disorder, when truancy is a feature. Its unique excision of the sclera(e).
features are characteristically seen in child- scleredema That benign, self-limiting condition
hood/adolescence. Depression with death wish- which may follow an acute infectious process.
355
Dermal induration/edema may be noted. scleromalacia Scleral softening.
scleromalacia perforans That complicated by
scleredema adultorum Buschke's scleredema —
A generalized swelling (non-pitting) which trav- perforation.
els to the body from the head, lasting one year scleronychia Hardening/thickening of the nails.
without sequela(e). The etiology of this condi- scleronyxis That surgical piercing of the
tion is unknown.
sclera(e).
sclerencephalia Sclerosis of brain cells. sclero-oophoritis Ovarian inflammation/indura-
scleriasis Progressive sclerosis of the
tion.
eyelid(s)/skin. sclerophthalmia Congenital opacity of the scle-
scleriritomy Surgical incision into the sclera/iris.
scleritis Sclerotitis — logatitis, scleral inflamma- ra(e) over the cornea(e).
sclerosis Cerebrosclerosis — that
tion.
annular scleritis That inflammation which hardening/thickening of organic tissue.
forms a ring around the cornea. Leucitis.
sclerocataracta A hardened cataract. Induration within the central nervous system.
sclerochoroiditis Scleral/choroid inflammation. Alzheimer's sclerosis Hyaline degeneration
posterior sclerochoroiditis Myopic choroiditis, involving blood vessels of the brain.
posterior staphyloma. amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) That (usu-
sclerodactylia Acroscleroderma — induration ally) rapidly progressive, muscular atrophy
affecting the skin of the digits. which may go on to bulbar paresis. The progno-
scleroderma Progressive systemic sclerosis — sis is grave.
that autoimmune, serious collagen disease in arterial sclerosis Arteriosclerosis.
which the skin and viscera become attacked by diffuse sclerosis That involving large areas of
the CREST phenomenon: Calcinosis; Raynaud's the central nervous system.
phenomenon; Esophageal dysfunction; disseminated sclerosis Multiple sclerosis.
Sclerodactyly; Telangiectasia. Gastrointestinal lobar sclerosis That of the cerebrum which
involvement is common and may represent causes distorted mentation.
pseudo-obstruction. Distal motor weakness may multiple sclerosis Disseminated sclerosis —
be the result of primary myopathy or disuse that gradual, progressive central nervous sys-
atrophy. Neuropathy has been seen. There is no tem disease characterized by numerous signs
known etiology nor specific therapy — only and symptoms. Early stages may include visual
supportive care. The prognosis is grave in disturbances and parasthesias. Charcot's triad
Black, geriatric, female patients. (intention tremor, nystagmus, and scanning
circumscribed scleroderma Benign, localized, speech) may next appear. Multiple exacerba-
sclerotic, dermal patches which are free of sys- tions/remissions are diagnostic of this chronici-
temic involvement. ty. Neither the etiology nor an effective therapy
scleroderma neonatorum Sclerema neonatorum for this crippler of young adults is known.
— dermal sclerosis in the newborn infant. renal sclerosis Nephrosclerosis.
scleroderma renal crisis That associated with venous sclerosis Phlebosclerosis, arterial scle-
hemolytic anemia and malignant hypertension. rosis, venous sclerosis.
This loss of renal function follows rapidly, and is sclerostenosis Contraction/induration of tissues
usually reversible. at an orifice.
sclerodermatitis Dermal inflammation and scle- sclerostenosis cutanea Scleroderma.
rosis with fibrotic tissue change. scleroticectomy Sclerectomy — partial excision
scleroiritis Inflammation of the iris and sclera. of the sclera(e).
sclerokeratitis Cellulitis, infiltration, inflamma- scleroticopuncture Scleroticonyxis, scleronyxis
tion of the sclera(e)/cornea(e).Sclerokeratosis. — surgical piercing of the sclera(e).
sclerokeratoiritis Inflammation of the cornea(e), sclerotic teeth Those which resist caries.
iris, sclera(e). sclerotitis Scleritis — scleral inflammation.
sclerotome That scalpel used to incise sclerae.
sclerotomy Scleroticotomy — a surgical incision
356
into the sclera. bullet scoop A surgical instrument which
anterior sclerotomy That scleral incision devel- retrieves a bullet from the operative site.
oped into the anterior chamber to treat glauco- cataract scoop That which extracts foreign
ma. objects, growths, fluid from within the eye.
posterior sclerotomy The scleral incision devel- ear scoop The surgical instrument used within
oped into the vitreous humor to extract a for- the middle ear.
eign body, or to reattach a detached retina, et al. lithotomy scoop That which extracts calculi,
sclerotrichia Brittle hair. debris, et al., from the urinary bladder.
scoliokyphosis The comorbidity of kyphosis and scoop technique An approved method of recap-
scoliosis. ping a hypodermic needle when there is no
scoliorachitic That complication of lateral spinal safety receptacle. The cap is placed on a table.
curvature, second degree to rickets. With one hand behind the nurse's back, the cap
scoliosis A lateral spinal curvature forming an is scooped up by the dominant hand holding the
"S". syringe and its needle. The cap is tightened by
cicatricial scoliosis That caused by constrict- both hands. This technique has proven to be
ing necrotic tissue. essential in home nursing, as well as in pedi-
congenital scoliosis Present at birth, this may atric and psychiatric units — whose patient
more accurately be the cause of an embryonic rooms cannot safely provide containers.
defect(s). scopophilia A voyeuristic attraction derived from
coxitic scoliosis Lumbar curvature caused by a visual, pornographic materials.
pelvic tilt, associated with hip disease. scopophobia An exaggeratedfear of being seen.
empyematic scoliosis That which is second scoracratia Fecal incontinence.
degree to the chest retraction following empye- scorpion sting Often fatal to small children, the
ma. emergency treatment of choice is immediate
habitual scoliosis That due to poor posture. immersion in hot water (as hot as the patient
idiopathic adolescent scoliosis Caused by will permit), until the pain is relieved. This inac-
growth spurts, this condition may becorrected tivates the heatlabile venom. The emergency
by the Milwaukee brace, turnbuckle casting, et room will administer the antidote.
al. scotodinia Vertigo accompanied by dim vision,
inflammatory scoliosis That caused by verte- and a visual sensation of "black dots".
bral pathology. scotoma Teichopsia— a sightless interruption
ischiatic scoliosis That attributed to hip pathol- within the visual field.
ogy. absolute scotoma Blindness in the area of
myopathic scoliosis Osteopathic scoliosis — visual pathology.
caused by spinal muscle pathology. central scotoma Depressed vision in which the
ocular scoliosis That caused by postural macular lesion involves the point of fixation.
anomalies compensating for visual defects. centrocecal scotoma That oval, visual defect
paralytic scoliosis A lateral, spinal curvature which includes the blind spot/fixation point.
secondary to muscular paresis. eclipse scotoma Blindness secondary to direct,
sciatic scoliosis That lateral curvature of the unprotected viewing of an eclipse.
spine, caused by sciatica. negative scotoma The presence of an interrup-
static scoliosis That resulting from unequal leg tion in the visual field — of which the patient
lengths. Treatment may include a lift on the (pt) is unaware.
shoe of the shorter leg, stapling the longer leg, positive scotoma Subjective perception of a
or other modalities. darkened area in the visual field.
scoop The surgical instrument which resembles ring scotoma Annular scotoma — that circular
a spoon. ring which encompasses the point of fixation,
bone scoop That which extracts suppurative leaving it intact.
and/or necrotic debris from bone. scintillating scotoma Flittering scotoma — that
357
which may follow concentration, eyestrain, man- occurs bone and dental abnormalities with hem-
ual labor, or migraine symptomatology. orrhagic symptomatology. Ascorbic acid is both
scotomization The development of scotoma. preventative and therapeutic.
scotopia That accommodation of sight in a dim infantile scurvy Barlow's disease — secondary
environment. to prolonged feeding of bottled milk.
scotoscopy Skiascopy, fluoroscopy. seasickness Motion sickness occurring on the
scout film The diagnostic X-ray which seeks to water.
confirm or rule out pathology in an emergency seat belt sign Following a motor vehicle accident
situation. (MVA), that broad, ecchymotic band noted
scratch test Application of an allergen on the across the lower abdomen.
dermis, followed by lightly scratching the skin seat belt syndrome The presence of the seat belt
beneath this with a sharp. This technique is sign in conjunction with a Chance fracture of the
known as scarification. If positive, a wheal will spine.
appear within 15 minutes. Seattle foot The spring-action prosthesis which
screatus A neurosis in which occurs paroxysms enables an amputee to participate in athletics.
of snorting. sebastomania Manic religious excess.
screening Preliminary testing to determine the Theomania.
initial diagnosis (without assignment of treat- seborrhea Altered functioning of thesebaceous
ment). glands.
multiphasic screening Determination of seborrhea capti Seborrhea dermatitis — dan-
comorbidity by multiple testing instruments. druff of the scalp.
Scribner shunt The union of an artery to a vein, seborrhea corporis Dandruff of the trunk.
as in hemodialysis. Infective, thrombolic, and/or seborrhea faciei Facial dandruff.
septic emboli from frequent venipunctures may seborrhea sicca That form which may progress
complicate this alternative. to alopecia and/or seborrheal eczema.
scrobiculation Pitting. secondary That which follows the primary condi-
scrofulosis Tuberculosis adenitis, secondary to a tion.
pulmonary lesion. secondary gain An ulterior motive/benefit.
scrotal reflex Contraction of the scrotum when second intention An indirect factor, as in healing
cold, or when the perineum is stroked. by granulation.
scrotectomy Partial excision of the scrotum. second look surgery Second look laparotomy.
scrotocele Scrotal herniation. Upon completion of chemotherapy/radiation of
scrub That precise procedurewhich staff must certain tumors, major surgery may be per-
observe in washing prior to surgical/obstetrical formed to confirm eradication of the malignan-
gloving. To "scrub in". Wash hands to the cy.
elbows with a brush for 5 minutes bv the clock. second sight Senopia— a temporary, refractive
and for another 5 without the brush. alteration may occur, which permits reading
scrub nurse The operating room (OR) nurse without glasses. Cataracts often develop later.
from whom instruments are handed up to the second stage of labor The onset of strong,
surgical team — by command or in anticipation painful contractions between total cervical
of the surgeons' routine and the operation being dilatation and parturition.
performed. secretagogue Secretogogue — a stimulant/cata-
Sculteteus binder An 8-tailed abdominal binder lyst/agent of glandular secretions.
which is wrapped in an upward direction to sup- secretion The product of glandular organs.
port the muscles postoperatively. Following external secretion Exocrine secretions —
Cesarean section, this is wrapped in a down- those excreted through a duct.
ward direction. This support has fallen into dis- internal secretion Endocrine secretions of hor-
use. mones which enter the blood circulation.
scurvy That nutritional deficiency in which section Sectio.
358
abdominal section Laparotomy, exploratory urine from the kidney pelves, via bilateral ureter-
laparotomy. al catheters.
Cesarean section Delivery of the Sequin's signal symptom Aura-specific, involun-
premature/term fetus through an tary muscle contractions preceding an epileptic
abdominal/pelvic incision. This may be per- seizure.
formed as emergency or elective surgery. seimesthesia Perceived vibrations.
postmortem Cesareansection That surgical seizure An attack of symptoms. A padded tongue
delivery of an expired woman's fetus within 15 blade may be needed to protect the mouth from
minutes of maternal demise, if a viable infant is injury, inserted only by a nurse who knows this
to be rescued. technique. These patients should always have a
frozen section An ultrathin wafer of tissue pre- clean, padded tongue blade taped to the head of
pared for microscopy. In the operating room, a each bed.
absence seizure Petit mal epilepsy.
suspicious specimen can be diagnosed, febrile seizure Not regarded to be epileptic,
enabling immediate surgical extirpation of the this is a pediatric convulsion which may occur
malignancy and its bordering tissue. during a fever which exceeds 101° F.Paresis
midsaggital section An imaginary division of indicates the convulsion was a focal seizure.
body planes into right and left halves. That lasting beyond 10 minutes bv the clock is
Pitres' section That sectioning which prepares classified as prolonged. Pre-existing neurologi-
the brain for autopsy. cal problems need to be ruled out, as do any
serial section Consecutively-numbered micro- other neurological deficits.
scopic slides of the same sample. grand mal seizure An epileptic convulsion with
secundum artem That according to tonic-clonic contractions. Confirmatory of this
protocol/rule/science. form of epilepsy is the presence of urinary
sedative A general/local/nervous/vascular med- incontinence and/or injury to the mouth (if a
ication which calms, quiets, and/or tranquilizes. bite stick was not placed in time). Grand mal
In many cases, this may be referredto as a epilepsy.
chemical restraint. Jacksonian seizure An epileptic convulsion
cardiac sedative An agent which diminishes which is confined to one body part or group of
the force of the heart. muscles.
nervous systemsedative An agent which seizure threshold That individual level below
calms the patient who is out of control, as a which convulsions may occur. Many factors
chemical restraint. reduce this threshold (psychotropic medica-
sedentary Involvement of minimal exertion — if tions, alcohol, et al.), thereby rendering the
any. patient even more vulnerable to seizure.
sediment Hypostasis — any precipitate which Seldinger technique Venous cannulation by
settles out of a liquid. It should be charted when endocatheter, utilizing a wire introducer.
precipitation is noted in a body fluid. (Some selective serotoninreuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
conditions resist sedimentation.) The newer antidepressant category which is
sedimentator A centrifuge, which spins down chemically unrelated to the classical agents in
specimens. use. Its action inhibits the neuronal uptake of
seed Sperm. In cancer treatment — a radium serotonin. This agent has demonstratedsuccess
capsule. One's children, progeny. in some obsessive/compulsive problems.
seeding The spread of malignant cells along the self-defeating personality disorder Avoidanceof
needle/incisional tract, or due to organ rupture. pleasure in the face (and self-propagation) of
segmental static reaction A postural reflex in self-defeat. These patients often resist interven-
which the opposite extremity moves in response tion, demonstrating paradoxical, negative emo-
to the contralateral movement. tional responsesto positive events/personsin
segmentation Cleavage, division, mitosis. their lives.
segregator A surgical instrument which collects
359
self-hypnosis Autohypnosis. involuntary, bizarre movements.
self-image One's vision of oneself. senilism Progeria, geriatrics.
self-limited disease An illness which runs its senility Geriatric physical/mental instability.
course without intervention. premature senility That occurring prior to age
self-tolerance A lack of reaction to self-antigens, 40. If progeria is seen in childhood, this is criti-
cal, devasting, and results in death prior to
in immunology. maturity.
semenuria Seminuria, spermaturia — excretion psychosis of senility Mental complications of
advanced age.
of semen with the voiding of urine. senium That debility of geriatrics.
semicircular In the shape of a half circle. senopia Improvement in geriatric myopia. This
condition may make the patient's glasses unnec-
Semiorbicular. essary, but precedes nuclear cataract develop-
semicoma Light unconsciousness from which ment. "Second sight".
sensation Awareness of sensory stimulation.
the patient cannot be aroused. The patient may cincture sensation Girdle sensation, zonesthe-
regain or have retained some functioning and sia. That constriction which may be a symptom
still be in coma. of spinal pathology.
semiflexion That between extension and flexion cutaneous sensation Feelings arising from skin
of an extremity(s). receptors.
semi-Fowler's position Wave position. That in delayed sensation An effect which does not
occur with the sensory stimulation.
which the head of the bed is raised half-way, gnostic sensation That finely developed
with the kneesflexed. sense(s) — position sense, tactile discrimina-
semilunar Crescent-shaped. tion, vibration, et al.
seminal That which is derived from seed/semen. proprioceptive sensation Somesthetic sensa-
seminal duct The spermatic duct, ejaculatory tion.
duct, ductus deferens. referred sensation Reflex sensation — the
seminal emission Ejaculation. feeling which arises from another origin.
tactile sensation That perceived through the
seminal fluid Semen. sense of touch.
semination Fertilization, insemination. sense To perceive. That media by which feelings
within/without the body are realized. A faculty of
artificial insemination Artificial semination — feeling, understanding. The capacity of equilibri-
the clinical introduction of sperm into the female um, hearing, hunger, pain, position, pressure,
reproductive system. proprioception, resistance, sexual sensation,
seminoma A testicular tumor. sight, smell, taste, temperature, thirst, touch,
semiorbicular Semicircular. visceral sensation. The concept of understand-
semipermeable That membrane which permits ing.
osmosis in only one direction. kinesthetic sense Muscular consciousness and
semiprone Sims' position. coordination.
semisideratio Simisideration — hemiparesis, posture sense That ability to ajust and counter-
hemiparalysis, one-sided paralysis, hemiplegia. balance the body in space.
semisupination Midway between pronation and pressure sense Baresthesia — that faculty of
supination. perceiving pressure exerted on, or within, the
semisynthetic The chemical alteration of a natur- body.
al element/compound. proprioceptive sense The unconscious sensa-
senescence Geriatrics — age 65 and older. tion(s) of the joints and skin — which enhance
Sengstaken-Blakemore tube That triple-lumen the positional perception of the body.
gastrointestinal tube which compresses the
esophageal varices, evacuates the stomach, and
provides a gastric balloon to achieve its crucial
positioning. This life-saving device may be
placed only by a physician.
senile A geriatric status with mental impairment.
senile chorea That senescence accompanied by
360
special senses Those of hearing, sight, smell, and psychosis, when prolonged.
taste, and touch. sensory epilepsy Disturbed sensations in the
static sense That which restores equilibrium. absence of grand mal seizures.
stereognostic sense The ability to discern with- sensory integration That ability required in the
out sight (such as coins in the hand). development of balance, bilateral coordination,
Heightened perception in the blind. body integration, sensory awareness,
temperature sense That capacity to realize visual/motor integration, sensory awareness,
changes/differences in the weather. visual/motor integration, spatial integration,
time sense The ability to correctly perceive motor output skills, sensory input, feedback
intervals of time. skills, praxis, visual/spatial awareness, et al.
visceral sense The subjective sensations of sensual Gratifying to the senses. Worldly.
internal tissues and organs. sensualism Emotional domination of one's
sense of pitch Musical discernment of tonality actions.
and variations in pitch. Some musicians have sentient Sensitive — the capacity to perceive
absolute pitch. feelings. One who is markedly susceptible to
sensibility Sensitivity, perceptivity, remarkable suggestions. The capacity to transmit and per-
susceptibility, receptivity. ceive feelings.
sensitivity That assessment of a specific clinical sentiment An emotional feeling/reaction.
finding, diagnostic study, procedure, et al. separation Disconnection, disunion, severance.
antimicrobial sensitivity testing Laboratory separation anxiety disorder A child's excessive
determinations of the susceptibility of patient and inappropriate concern focused on the possi-
micro-organisms to designated antibiotic disks. bility of being separated from his/her significant
sensitivity training Group therapy which pro- others. This may include somatic symptomatol-
vides the opportunity for members to interact ogy and "school phobia" in the presence of tru-
candidly and honestly. Herein are reinforced ancy.
conflict management, self-awareness, the sepsis Septic syndrome/shock — that over-
strengths of affection, inner direction, and other whelming febrile, pathologic state which may be
coping mechanisms. manifest as cellulitis, lymphadenitis, lymphangi-
sensitization The technique of rendering one tis. The primary goal in the management of
susceptible. Sensibilization. these patients is that of stabilizing the patient
active sensitization That achieved through an and eradicating the infection. (Septic shock will
injected antigen, administered to a susceptible not be seen in all cases of sepsis.) Ventilatory
subject. support and invasive monitoring may be
passive sensitization That gained through required to prevent death from multiple systems
serum donated by a sensitized subject. organ failure.
sensorimotor Combined sensory and motor fea- septicemia Bacteremia, hematosepsis, septemia,
tures. septic fever. Pathogenic infection within the cir-
sensorium That portion of the brain which func- culation. Abscesses, fever progressing to rigor,
tions as the sensory center. petechiae, purpuric pustules, and shock may
sensory The transmission of afferent impulses to precede expiration.
sense organs and higher centers. bronchopulmonary septicemia Pathogenic
sensory amusia Tone deafness. That inability to aspiration of bacteria into the lungs may cause
decode music, match tones, et al. this critical form of blood poisoning.
sensory aphasia That inability to interpret the puerperal septicemia Puerperal sepsis — that
written/spoken word. occurring in conjunction with complicated abor-
sensory deprivation The absence of normal tions/deliveries. These patients may go on to
stimuli due to external limitations. This may die.
produce severe mental symptoms such as anxi- septicophlebitis Septic thrombophlebitis —
ety, auditory/visual hallucinations, depression, infection within the vein.
361
septicopyemia Septicemia complicated by seroprognosis Serological testing which predicts
pyemia. the outcome of a condition/disease.
septic pharyngitis Streptococcal infection of the serosa Serous membrane — pericardium, peri-
throat, accompanied by fever and marked pros- toneum, pleurae, synovial membrane, et al.
tration.
serosanguineous Blood mixed with serum.
septimetritis Septic inflammation of the uterus. serosurvey Assessment of immunity in a defined
septoplasty Plastic surgery of the nasal septum.
sequela(e) Complication(s) following population, using a certain antibody level as the
indication of immunity.
disease/injury. serosynovitis Inflammation of a joint which has
sequence That which is in sequential order. increased synovial fluid.
sequestration Isolation, quarantine. The arrest of serotherapy Orotherapy — temporary artificial
immunity achieved by the infusion of blood
hemorrhage within the cranium/trunk by the use serum with antibodies.
of rotating tourniquets. serotonin A potent vasoconstrictor which is
sequestrectomy Sequestiotomy, sequestrectomy present in carcinomatous tumors, gastrointesti-
— the excision of necrotic bone. nal mucosa, platelets. This is also involved in
sequestrum A necrotic portion of bone which sensory perceptual and sleep problems.
becomes separated from the remaining portion serotonin syndrome Altered mental status,
of bone. diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, orthostatic hypoten-
primary sequestrum Entire detachment from sion, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, weight gain
living bone. may be seen — in addition to rare drug interac-
secondary sequestrum Loose detachment from tions and hypertensive crises which may be
living bone. potentially fatal.
tertiary sequestrum Partial detachment which serous cavity That lined by a serum-like sub-
remains in place. stance— the peritoneal, plural, and pericardial
serial 7s test In this mental status test, the cavities.
patient subtracts 7 from 100, then 7 from that serous effusion Escape of serum into body cavi-
figure, continuing for a total of 14 times. ties/tissues.
seroconversion That reversal of antibody reac- serovaccination That immediate passive immu-
tion to vaccine/disease.The development of nization combined with future active immunity
serum antibodies in one who has had no through the combination of bacterial vaccine
detectable antibodies. and serum.
serodermatosis A rash with serous effusion into serrated Notched.
the epidermal tissues. serrefine That homostat designed for the com-
serodiagnosis That derived from analysis of pression of hemorrhaging circulatory vessels.
serological findings. serrenoeud An instrument which tightens liga-
seroenteritis Inflammation of the serous intesti- tures on vessels in the deep surgical cavity.
nal lining. serrulation Fine serration, notching.
serohepatitis Infection of the portal peritoneum. serum That fluid which saturates serous mem-
seroimmunity The production of vaccination by branes. Blood plasma without fibrinogen.
antiserum. Biological immunization.
serology The science of blood serum. anticrotalus serum That indicated for rat-
seroma Accumulated serum which mimics a tlesnake poisoning.
tumor. antidiphtheritic serum That which counteracts
seronegative Serological testing which yields a diphtheria.
negative reading. antimeningococcal serum That which combats
seroperitoneum Hydroperitoneum — peritoneal meningitis.
ascites. antipneumococcal serum That which treats
seropositive A specimen which tests positive to pneumonia.
serological testing.
362
antitetanic serum That counteractive to sex Characterization as female or male.
tetanus. sexdigital Possessing 6 fingers and/or toes.
antityphoid serum That with typhoid bacillus sex-linked That characteristic which is transmit-
antibodies. ted by the female and exhibited in the male.
bactericidal serum That destructive to bacillus sex surrogate A controversial practice in marital
— which is ineffective on toxins. counseling, in which a substitute represents the
blood serum Blood plasma, void of cells and patient's spouse in erotic exercises.
fibrinogen. sextan Every 6 days.
convalescent serum That donated by one sexual abuse Violation of another's sexuality.
patient to another with the same disease. pediatric sexual abuse Pedophilia — sexual
foreign serum That derived from aspecies attraction toward a child. Behavior the child vic-
alien to the recipient's. tim exhibits may include acting out; antisocial
immune serum That containing specific anti- behavior; confiding in others; deteriorated acad-
bodies. emic performance; distorted body image; enco-
polyvalent serum An antibiotic agent which presis; enuresis; excessive masturbation; fear of
contains more than one type of species perpetrator; feelings of guilt and/or shame;
pooled serum Mixed blood plasma contributed highly sexualized play; phobic affect; pseudoma-
by more than one donor. turity; regression; seductive acting out; separa-
pregnancy serum That contributed by gravid tion anxiety; sexual promiscuity; suicidal
women. attempt or gesture; withdrawal. A child's report
serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase of sexually abusive treatment should be
(SGOT) Aspartate aminotransferase. Elevated believed, and promptly referredto a child psy-
levels of this intracellular enzyme suggest brain, chiatrist. Over-reaction may further damage the
liver, and/or muscle pathology/necrosis. child's emotional coping and psyche.
serum glutamic-pyruvictransaminase(SGPT) sexual disorders Impairment in sexual function-
Alanine aminotransferase. Elevated levels of this ing.
intracellular enzyme suggest brain, liver, and/or sexual aversion disorder Extreme avoidance of
muscle pathology/necrosis. genital contact. Marked interpersonal distress
serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) A recent- and/or marital maladjustment results.
ly developed assay for men which indicates sexual dysfunction Disturbance in the sexual
early prostatic malignancy. This radioactive response cycle involving the libido, excitation,
blood test should be drawn prior to the palpated orgasm, and/or resolution.
exam of the prostate — to prevent false eleva- sexual masochism Repetitive, erotically intense
tion of the findings. The age of the patient must behavior, which involves the beating, binding,
be submitted to facilitate accurate assessment and/or humiliation of the victim. (Other torment
of the results. may occur.) Significant distress may be noted in
serum sickness Seroreaction, hypersensitivity major areas of functioning.
following chemotherapy/antisera. sexual paraphilias Abnormal arousal. Those
serum tumor markers Blood serology may sug- activity patterns which interfere with reciprocal
gest the presence of a malignancy. Less than sexual response.
accurate, these indicators still monitor the sexually transmitted disease (STD)
patient's response and prognosis. Communicable illness acquired through sexual
sesamoiditis Inflammation of the sesamoid contact. By law, each is a mandatory, reportable
nasal fibrocartilage/bone. disease in the United States.
sesquihora Every11/2hours. sexual reassignment Surgical transformation of
sever To cut apart, excise. a person who has undergone legal, psychiatric,
Sever's disease Pediatric pain in the heel, and surgical consultations to confirm that such
caused by epiphysitis of the calcaneus. This a radical decision has been made with care.
condition will not be revealed by X-rays. sexual sadism Intense, recurrent, and arousing
363
fantasies, erotic urges, and/or actual acts — (characteristic), shallow tachypnea, urinary
during which the mental/physical suffering is retention, and/or a weak, thready pulse. This
erotically stimulating to the aggressor. This syndrome may be more critical than the pre-
causes significant impairment in many areas of senting injury or illness, and could be the cause
functioning for both. of the patient's demise.
Sezary syndrome A leukemic variant of mycosis anaphylactic shock That caused by protein
fungoides, infiltrated with Sezary cells. This allergens. This form is rapidly fatal, unless suc-
exfoliative and resistant erythema carries a poor cessfully reversed by anaphylaxis.
prognosis. anesthesia shock This may be caused by an
shadow Ghost corpuscle, hemolyzed erythrocyte, excess of anesthetic agent — which should be
phantom corpuscle. discontinued STAT. The emergency protocol is
shaken baby syndrome A form of abuse which artificial respiration with oxygen (02), in addition
may be inflicted without external evidence on to intravenous stimulants.
the infant. People of all ages (including fetuses cardiogenic shock That caused by insufficient
in utero) are able to perceive rejection and its cardiac output.
psychological damage. All nurses are mandatory deferred shock The delayed appearance of sec-
reporters of child abuse in the United States. ondary shock may be brought about by acido-
The injuries of shaken babies are confirmed sis, dehydration, hemorrhage, emergency trans-
upon autopsy. port. In the face of tragedy/death, the patient's
shared psychotic disorder Folie a deux — is a immediate family may exhibit this form of syn-
delusion developed with another person. The cope.
shared delusional beliefs may be dependent on electric shock That resulting from the passage
the diagnosis, with bizarre delusions, or mood- of electric current through the body. This may
congruent delusions. If interrupted, the alliance burn a diagonal path from one hand to the
will cease. opposite foot. Some thermal injuries require
shear That injury which occurs when force is amputation. The shock may fatally jolt the heart.
applied in opposite directions. (No injuries are alike.)
Sheehan's syndrome Secondary to postpartum epigastric shock That caused by trauma to the
hemorrhage/shock, hypopituitarism due to epigastrium, upper abdomen.
infarction may result in adrenocortical, gonadal, hemorrhagic shock The result of extreme blood
and/or thyroid functioning. loss.
shigellosis That gastrointestinal illness caused hypovolemic shock Syncope secondary to
by Shigella bacteria — which may cause diar- inadequate blood volume.
rhea or fatal dysentery. psychic shock A mental syndrome caused by
Shindler's disease Juvenile neuraxonal dystro- intolerable emotional conflicts.
phy. septic shock Endotoxin shock — that due to
Shirodkar operation Cerclage placement of a gram-negative bacteria within the body (from
purse-string suture around the os of an incom- which hyperthermia develops), severe systemic
petent cervix, to prevent premature onset of infections, or following unsterile pelvic proce-
labor. Parturition cannot occur until the suture dures.
has been ligated. spinal shock Flaccid paralysis accompanied by
shock Insufficient peripheral blood and oxygen loss of reflex and sensation, below a transverse
within the circulation. Causes may include dehy- spinal cord injury — which occurs at that time.
dration, drug reaction, hemorrhage, infection, thermal shock That caused by burns, frostbite,
injury, myocardial infarction, toxicity, trauma. immersion hypothermia, et al.
Symptoms may present as cyanosis, dilated traumatic shock Surgical shock affected by
pupils, inattention, decreased/unobtainable major injury.
blood pressure, expressionless affect, extreme abdominal trauma This shock becomes critical
thirst, incontinence, marked pallor, restlessness when viscera and/or the upper abdomen are
364
injuried. Peritonitis, paralytic ileus and hemor- sialagogue Sialogogue, ptyalagogue — that
rhage prolong the risk of traumatic shock. agent which increases the production of saliva.
intestinal trauma That caused by acute sialectasia Sialectasis — hypertrophied salivary
obstruction of the bowel, leading to traumatic glands.
shock. sialemesis Vomiting provoked by excessive sali-
neurological trauma Contusion of exquisitely va.
sensitive organs (eyes, fingers, genitalia, et al.) sialism Ptalism, salivation, sialismus — an
will produce traumatic shock. excessive production of saliva.
perforation Traumatic shock is present in those sialoaerophagy Excessive swallowing of air and
emergencies of ectopic pregnancy, perforated saliva.
appendix/ulcer, ruptured aneurysm, et al. sialoangiectasis Dilatation of the duct(s) of the
strangulation Patients experiencingchoking, salivary gland(s).
intussusception, strangulated herniation, or sialoangitis Sialoangiitis, sialodochitis —
volvulus, will suffer traumatic shock. inflammation of the salivary ducts.
visceral Torsion of the ovary or testicle will sialodochoplasty Plastic surgery of the salivary
cause the victim to go into traumatic shock. glands.
short-bowel syndrome A surgical bypass or sialoductitis Inflammation of Stensen's duct.
resection of the intestines (in the morbidly sialolith A salivary calculus. Occasionally,a
obese patient) may result in severe malnourish- patient will be admitted to the operating room
ment, due to the inability to absorb essential (OR) for a sialolithotomy, only to have the sur-
nutrients. Neurological signs of encephalopathy geon discover that the calculus is no longer in
could complicate this procedure. the salivary duct, and no longer of concern.
shunt A diversion of body fluid(s). sialoncus A sublingual tumor caused by a sali-
arteriovenous shunt An abnormal union vary duct/gland obstruction.
between the venous circulation and the artery. sialopenia Sialaporia, sialoporia — the inade-
cardiovascular shunt Abnormal communica- quate production of saliva.
tion between the cardiac chambers and/or the sialorrhea Sialism — drooling due to an exces-
pulmonary/systemic vessels. sive production of saliva. Incontinence of saliva.
dialysis shunting An arteriovenous shunt sur- sibilant A whistling quality.
gically created to facilitate renal dialysis. sibilation That speech impediment with promi-
left-to-right shunt That propulsion of blood nent hissing sounds.
from the left to right heart, through an abnormal sibilismus aurium Tinnitus.
window between thesechambers. sibling A brother or sister.
Le Veen shunt Peritoneal redirection of ascitic siccative Siccant — a drying agent.
fluid through the venous circulation. sicchasia Nausea.
portacaval shunt Postcaval shunt. Surgical sickle beta-thalassemia That disorder progress-
anastomosis of the portal vein and the inferior ing from an inherited sickle gene from one par-
vena cava. ent, and a beta-thalassemia gene from the other
right-to-lefl shunt Circulation abnormally parent.
diverted to the left heart from the right, through sickle cell anemia Hemoglobinemia resulting
a defective opening within the heart. This results from two inherited beta-globin genes.
in the circulation of unoxygenated blood — sickle cell disease Those genetic disorders
which is incompatible with life. characterized by the production of sickled
Shy-Drager syndrome Insufficiency of the prima- hemoglobin, with tissue damage and anemia
ry autonomic nervous system causes this caused by those abnormal cells. Sickle cell dis-
chronic orthostatic hypotension. ease is found among those of African descent,
siagonantritis Maxillary sinus infection. as well as of Mediterranean, Caribbean,
sialadenitis Sialitis, sialoadenitis — inflamma- North/South/Central American, Arabian, and
tion of a salivary gland(s). East Indian ancestry. All neonatesdiagnosed
365
with sickle cell anemia/beta-thalassemia should Types of sickle cell disease
receive penicillin BID (twice daily) as prophylac- Sickle cell anemia
tic therapy. All parents of these infants should Hemoglobin SC disease
be counseled for the decisions ahead. The Sickle beta-thalassemia
methodologies employed for screening neonates S-D Punjab
must have high rates of sensitivity and specifici- S-0 Arab
ty for the identification (ID) of newborn infants S-Lepore
with this and other clinically significant hemo- S-E disease
globinopathies. The laboratory must participate
in proficiency testing and retesting. The infant Sickle cell disease
who tests positive for sickle cell disease should
be regarded as severely afflicted, until the defin- Anemia is a deficiency of hemoglobin, the red
itive diagnosis (dx) is established. In this test- coloring matter which is contained in the red
ing, non-paternity may be revealed. Babies with blood cells. Hemoglobin is necessary in supply-
sickling become anemic by age 2-3 months, and ing oxygen to all tissues of the body.
are at risk for life-threatening complications in
addition to bacterial infections. Fever in infants Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder that
with sickle cell disease must be regarded as an afflicts 10% to 12% of the African American
emergency! Acute chest syndrome (ACS) population in the United States. There are two
describes pulmonary involvement secondary to forms: the trait, and the more severe form, ane-
pulmonary infarction/infection. Acute splenic mia.
sequestration crisis includes a sudden entrap-
ment of blood in the spleen, accompanied by Sickle cell anemia is a condition in which the
cardiovascular compromise. Pallor, red blood cells are abnormal in shape and con-
splenomegaly, worsening anemia, cardiovascu- tain an abnormal type of hemoglobin. Most of
lar collapse, an elevated reticulocyte count, the affected persons are African Americans but
and/or thrombocytopenia confirm the diagnosis. some are Caucasians of Mediterranean orgin,
Nurses must not palpate these spleens. It is the American Indian, and inhabitants of South India,
meniscocytes (crescent-shaped erythrocytes) the Middle East and the Caribbean countries.
which lead to infarction and occlusion.
sickle cell (disease) crisis This emergency for Sickle cell trait is a condition where a small
the victim of sickle cell disease, is precipitated percentage of the red blood cells have the sickle
by deficient oxygen. Exquisite abdominal pain shape but behave like normal red cells. The trait
may suggest an impending surgical event. will likely cause little trouble but a person
Cerebral infarction in children over age 3 years should be aware of his condition for he is a car-
is associated with occlusive vasculopathy. rier.
Because this disease is intracranial, surgery is
not an option. Pediatric patients typically stroke Sickle cell disease cannot be caught. It is an
between the ages of 9-15 years. Transfusion is inherited defect of the red blood cells passed on
under dispute as the only feasible treatment for from one generation to the next. The trait occurs
this dreaded disease. Oxygen should be used in about once in every 12 African Americans. The
flight. more severe anemia ocurs about once in every
sickle cell (disease) meniscocytosis Sicklemia, 500 African Americans. Currently, it is estimated
that inherited form of sickle cell anemia seen in that there are at least 50,000 persons in the
Africa/Mediterranean/lndian/African-American United States with sickle cell anemia, and about
descendants. Obstructed transport of oxygen to 3 million with sickle cell trait.
the capillaries causes abdominal pain, acute
chest syndrome, fever, functional asplenia, non- The first indications of the disease usually may
traumatic osteonecrosis of the hip(s), diffuse be observed when the child is from 2 to 4 years.
366
bone/joint pain, and/or vaso-occlusive pain sick sinus syndrome(SSS) A number of
crises. Bone marrow transplantation is the only ECG/EKG abnormalities caused by sinoatrial
known treatment. (SA) node malfunctioning. Sinoatrial block,
sickle cell (disease) trait That condition in sinus arrest, sinus bradycardia, bradytachycar-
which the sickled cells take the properties of dia and/or tachyarrhythmias may alternate to
normal erythrocytes. Although carriers for sickle produce angina pectoris, dizziness, dyspnea,
cell disease, these individuals will live near-nor- fatigue, syncope. Anticoagulant therapy and
mal lives until they procreate. All hemoglo- pacemaker insertion are the modalities of
binopathies should be included in the screening choice.
of newborns, in order to reduce morbidity/mor- side effect That reaction which is not desired.
tality from sickle cell trait. Penicillin prophylaxis paradoxical side effect An unusual response
is the chemotherapy of choice. Edema and ten- which may occur years after the target drug was
derness of the digits and extremities may be an successfully tolerated.
early symptom of this condition. In following sideroderma Bronze skin caused by faulty disin-
each child's graphed progress, it may be real- tegration of hemoglobin.
ized that hospitalization will be necessary during sideropenia Iron (Fe) deficiency.
minor diseases in these children, to protect sideroscope An ophthalmic instrument which
from complications which will threaten their detects iron in the eye(s).
precarious health. siderosis Arc-welder's disease — pneumoconio-
sickle cell preparation A blood test with sis caused by the inhalation of dust/fumes bear-
Metabisulfite, which readily identifies sickling ing particles of iron.
hemoglobin (Hgb). (There is some controversy hepatic siderosis An abnormal accumulation of
over this test.) iron (Fe) in the liver.
367
urinary siderosis Hemosiderin residue in the concepts are signed bilaterally/unilaterally.
Brain-damaged children without speech often
urine. adapt to this modality of communication.
Siemens' syndrome Ichthyosis congenita, sign language Use of the hands and fingers to
spell out letters/words. Employed by the deaf,
ichthyosis fetalis, ichthyosis erythroderm, harle- this is also used in the rehabilitation of children
quin fetus. These neonates may expire within with undevelopedspeech.
days. silent Mute, soundless, still.
Sigault's operation Symphysiotomy — surgical silent disease That pathology which is void of
dissection of the symphysis pubis to facilitate clinical signs/symptoms.
an impacted delivery. silicoanthracosis Pneumonoconiosis complicat-
sigmatism Speech with defective/excessive"S" ed by anthracosis — an occupational hazard of
coal miners.
sounds. silicone The medical grade of this element is
sigmoidectomy Total/subtotal surgical excision used in an injectable form for plastic surgery,
and for implantation.
of the sigmoid flexure of the large intestine. silicosis Pneumonosilicosis — pneumonoconio-
sigmoidopexy Surgical fixation of the sigmoid sis which may progress to a fibrotic emphyse-
ma with respiratory impairment. Tuberculosis
bowel to an abdominal incision as repair of a and carcinoma (CA) must be ruled out.
rectal prolapse. Romanopexy silicotuberculosis Tuberculosis in comorbidity
sigmoidorectostomy Sigmoidoproctostomy — with silicosis.
anastomosis of the rectum to the sigmoid flex- silo filler's disease That pulmonary damage
ure. caused by fermentation of organic matter within
sigmoidoscope That instrument used to examine
the sigmoid bowel. the silo.
flexible sigmoidoscope Through fiberoptics, silver fork deformity A radiologic abnormality
this instrument is able to achieve greater, safer
visualization of the colon. seen in Colles' fracture.
sigmoidosigmoidostomy An anastomosis silver nitrate poisoning Evidenceof a gray dis-
between two portions of sigmoid bowel.
sigmoidovesical A union between the sigmoid coloration of the oral mucosal membranes is a
bowel and bladder. significant sign of this toxicity. Chronic expo-
sign Symptom — an objective evidence of sure is revealed by argyria (blue skin).
abnormality and pathology. simesthesia Subjective sensitivity within a bone.
objective sign That physical symptom which Simmonds' disease Panhypopituitarism, pitu-
can be auscultated, heard, measured, palpated, itary cachexia — premature senility and/or psy-
and/or observed by the examiner. chiatric symptomatology may follow thyroid,
subjective sign That which is perceived by the adrenal, gonadal dysfunctioning caused by this
patient. The patient's chief complaint (CC). condition.
vital signs (VS) Blood pressure, pulse/respira- simulation Imitation, pretense.
tory rates, (temperature) — so-called because single pjioton emission computed tomography
each assessesa function vital to life. (SPECT) Measurement of cerebral perfusion.
signal A verbal, visual, and/or written communi- This modality provides imagery of brain activity
cation transmitted electronically by laser, optical and accurate evaluation of behavioral and neu-
fibers, radio, telephone, television media, et al. ropsychiatric disorders. Less expensive than
signal anxiety That return of a patient's fear and many neuroimaging techniques, SPECT requires
panic in the presence of conditions reminiscent less time for fewer personnel to administer.
of the terror which triggered these emotions Singleton-Merten syndrome This extremely rare
originally. disorder is characterized by massive arterial cal-
significant others Relatives and others who have cification, dental abnormalities, and widened
closely bonded with the patient. medullary cavities within bones.
signing Communication without sound — usual-
ly with the fingers/hands. Letters, words, or
368
singultus Hiccups, hiccoughs — spasms of the singultus, surgical severing of the phrenic nerve
diaphragm. Manipulating the uvula with a cotton may be indicated.
swab (or any long, slender item) will abort sinistrad Toward the left side of the body.
many of these spasms. In cases of intractable sinistrality Left-handedness, sinistromanual.
369
sinistrocardia Dislocation of the heart to the left skeletal traction Counter weight applied to
tongs/pins which have been surgically inserted
chest. into fractured bones.
sinistrotorsion Twisting/torsion to the left.
sinoatrial Sinoauricular. skeletization Cachexia in extremis.
sinoatrial node The originating site of the heart skeocytosis Deviation to the left of white blood
beat — situated at the superior vena cava, posi- corpuscles (WBCs).
tioned within the right cardiac auricle. skiascopy Fluoroscopy, retinoscopy.
sinuitis Sinusitis — an inflamed sinus(es). Skoda's rales Bronchial wheezing auscultated
sinus arrhythmia Cardiac dysrhythmia in which
the heart rate increases upon inspiration, and through consolidated lung tissue, in pneumoni-
decreases upon expiration. This is of little clini- tis.
cal significance, except in the geriatric patient Skoda's resonance Tympanic reverberation aus-
— in whom this may suggest coronary artery cultated above consolidation in pneumonitis, or
disease. superior to the fluid level in pleuritic effusion.
sinus rhythm The normal heart rate initiated by sleep disorders That state in which restful sleep
the sinoatrial node. is denied. Mental/physical performance deterio-
siphonoma A tubular tumor. rates, hallucinations may be experienced, para-
Sipple syndrome Multiple endocrine neoplasia, noia appears, anxiety heightens, overeating
type III. occurs, and/or hypersexuality may be noted.
Sippy diet Neutralization of gastric acidity by Environmental factors are not included in this
diet. This diet has fallen into disuse due to its designation.
monotony — half and half hourly, alternating cataplexy Loss of muscle tone caused by sud-
with antacid hourly. Later, simple white foods den emotion. Lasting briefly, the patient remains
are introduced. When used, this diet is adjusted alert.
to include vitamins and bedtime feedings. hypersomnia That marked increase of sleep in
sirenomelia Uromelus — that congenital abnor- each 24-hour day. This may be attributed to
mality which results in fused legs. psychiatric illness, substance abuse, endocrine
siriasis Sunstroke. disorders, infectious disease, or chemical toxici-
sisyphus reaction Anhedonic striving at work
and at home. Nothing brings pleasure. ty.
site Location, position. insomnia Deprivation of sleep.
sitieirgia A hysterical refusal to eat. initial insomnia Marked delay in falling asleep.
sitophobia A repulsion to food. middle insomnia Awakening in the midst of
situs A position, site. one's sleep, unable to return to sleep easily.
situs inversus viscerum Displacement of viscera terminal insomnia Early morning awakening
contralaterally within the body. (far earlier than customary). This is a classic
situs perversus Visceral malposition. symptom of major depression.
Sitz bath Soaking which covers the hips. sensory paroxysms Benign, sensory disruption
Sjb'gren's syndrome A form of collagen disease of the onset of sleep.
associated with vasculitic neuropathy (in sleep apnea A hypoventilation syndrome which
menopausal women). This may be manifested in may be experienced by middle-age males with
many forms — keratoconjunctivitis sicca, morbid obesity. Sometimes resembling
rheumatoid arthritis, xerostomia. This is an Pickwickian syndrome, 20+ second lapses in
autoimmune response. breathing may occur while asleep. The patient
skelalgia Painful leg(s). awakens, physically fighting to breathe, believ-
skeletal muscle Voluntary muscle. Striated mus- ing it was a nightmare or noise which caused
cle. him to awaken. Myoclonic contractions may be
skeletal survey Bone scan. Full-body X-rays prominent. Becausethese patients often lack
taken to rule out pathology, injury. insight into their condition, a reliable family his-
tory is essential if a correct diagnosis is to be
assigned. (Does this person have sleep apnea?
370
Just ask his wife!) These sleep difficulties can and taping this to the diaper/underpants. This
be so alarming and disruptive to those sleeping should shield only the genitalia, lest the field be
in the same bed/room, doing so becomes an opaqued. The lateral view will serve as the radi-
impossibility. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty is the ological frame of reference. The CT scan should
procedure of choice. show identical cuts. Bilateral pinning is not rou-
pediatric sleep apnea This is seen as obstruc- tine, but used when indicated. The litigious con-
tive respirations. Neither obesity nor daytime cern is, most often, misdiagnosis.
sedation may be noted. Those at greater risk are sloughing The stage of desquamation from
children with Down's syndrome, those with necrosis.
facial anomalies, and children with sickle cell slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A)
anemia. It may be necessary to tracheotomize That agent which plays a part in allergenic bron-
the mouth-breather. Those who present with chospasm/anaphylaxis.
heavy snoring and parents' complaints of the slow virus infection That infection caused by
presence of nasopharyngeal obstruction should dormant viruses, prior to symptomatology.
be referred directly to EENT for management. small-for-gestational age Underweight preemies
sleep paralysis Inability to move/speak immedi- and neonates.
ately upon awakening. This promptly resolves smallpox Variola major — an acute, febrile,
without intervention. The etiology of these brief highly communicable disease in which painful,
attacks is unknown. (Nor do they impair the disfiguring, and severely scarring skin lesions
person in any way.) remain. Due to intensive quarantine and vacci-
sleep terror disorder Repetitive awakening from nation mandates, this lethal scourge has been
sleep, following a terrorizing scream. Intense, eradicated throughout the world. Still, a remnant
autonomic arousal with hyperventilation and virus of vaccinia is kept frozen at the National
tachycardia is evident. The child is confused, Institutes of Health in the USA. In case smallpox
disoriented, and nonresponsive to reassurance. should ever erupt again, the vaccine will be able
The dream is not recalled. Although the child to be developed promptly.
has amnesia for the event, the parents do not! Smith's fracture Fracture of the lower radius,
No lasting psychiatric effect has been noted in with anterior displacement of the fragments.
these children. Smith-Petersen nail That prosthetic rod which
sleepwalking Somnambulism — typically seen stabilizes femoral neck fractures.
in children, the patient repeatedly arises during Smith-Strang disease Oast-house urine disease
sleep, to walk. (Obstacles will be avoided.) The associated with phenylketonuria. An inherited
child's affect is expressionless, with open eyes. malabsorption syndrome which includes convul-
S/he is non-responsive to most stimuli. Upon sions, diarrhea, mental retardation, characteri-
awakening, s/he will be amnestic of the event. cally malodorous urine, tachypnea, and white
sling A support for the injured or paralyzed arm. hair.
That apparatus which permits the fractured smoke inhalation The cause of acute pulmonary
pelvis to "float" above the bed. injury. Frequently, those who die in, or after, a
slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) Not fire, were not burned, but expired from smoke
acute, this chronic instability renders weight inhalation.
bearing impossible without the use of crutches. smudging A speech impediment in which conso-
The pathognomonic sign is that of frog leg posi- nants are not pronounced.
tioning when the infant's/child's leg is raised snake bite Management in the field requires
with the femur flexed. To be ruled out are immobilization of the patient, wound and limb
increased displacement, pathological fracturing, (as though fractured), by calm first aid respon-
avascular necrosis, chondrolysis, et al. To pre- ders who consider all snakes to be toxic. Ice,
pare for radiological examination, the pelvis of faciotomy, debridement, and aggressive wound
boys of all ages must be shielded. This can be cleaning are all contraindicated. as time is of the
accomplished by cutting a shield of lead rubber, essence. At the hospital, a constricting band will
371
be placed above the bite, allowing the pulse to socioacusis Auditory pathology caused by
remain palpable. Intravenous fluids will be start- excessive environmental noise. If music heard
ed, and blood work obtained. Neurological and through earphones can also be heard by those
respiratory involvement will be monitored in the in the room, that level of volume is damaging
intensive care unit. his/her hearing.
snake venom poisoning This medical emergency sociobiology Evolutionary behavior as adapted
involves multiple organ systems. Of essence in through cultural tradition, genetic inheritance,
combating envenomation is the STAT adminis- education, et al.
tration of antivenin. Death occurs among those sociogenic stress Mass hysteria.
in whom this has not been achieved, and in sodokosis Rat-bite fever, which is a highly com-
cults which handle poisonous snakes during municable, febrile infection. Sodoku.
their rituals. Since defanged snakes regrow lost sodomy The risky practice of anal intercourse.
fangs, these are still considered to be poi- solace Comfort and security provided to a per-
sonous. Anemia, bullae, cardiac/renal failure, son during his/her moments of emotional/men-
disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), tal stress. Consolation.
edema, emotional instability, hemoconcentra- sole reflex The plantar reflex.
tion, hemorrhage, hypoalbuminemia, hypo- solubility test That which uses dithionate to
volemic shock, intravascular hemolysis, pul- identify the presence of sickling hemoglobin
monary edema, thrombocytopenia, and/or tis- (Hgb).
sue necrosis may follow. Although few snake somastesthesia Body awareness,conscious-
bites transmit a lethal amount of venom, all ness.
should be considered to be toxic. All USA zoos somasthenia Somatasthenia — total, hypoten-
maintain antivenom to cover all of their exotic sive, body weakness— which may be chronic,
snakes. or a sign of severe compromise.
snare A surgical instrument with a wire loop to somatic Pertaining to the body. Skeletal tissues
excise tumors and polyps. (in contrast to visceral).
tonsil snare That used in tonsillectomies. somatist A believer in the relationship of an
Sneddon's syndrome A rare, occlusive arteriopa- organic basis to psychiatric illness.
thy, in which neurologic manifestations may be somatization disorder Medical complaints
seen. These include dementia, recurrent strokes, appearing prior to age 30 years, eliciting med-
seizures, transient ischemic attack (TIA). ical intervention due to interference with func-
Snellen Eye Test An examination of visual acuity. tioning. Affecting any organ system, this is a
This is adapted for non-readers, as well as for chronic ailment for which no organic basis can
those who cannot read English. The E chart be found. The diagnostic criteria includes symp-
calls for them to indicate with fingers, in which tomatology of pain, gastrointestinal (Gl) com-
direction each E is facing. plaints (other than pain), sexual malfunctioning,
SOAP The acronym referring to a once-popular pseudoneurologic deficits, et al.
protocol for documentation: Subjective findings, Briquet's syndrome/hysteria This multifaceted
Objective findings, Assessment, and Plan for personality disorder, secondary to alcohol
treatment. Once completed, it was said that the (ETOH) abuse, is characterized by pseudoneuro-
physician "SOAPed the chart(s)". logical symptoms. Because these patients may
socialization Adaptation to life with others. be inconsistent historians, it is of concern that
social phobia A pervasive fear of situations out- their clinically significant complaints not be dis-
side one's sheltered environment. The onset missed.
may follow a humiliating event, which left somatoform disorder Disease symptomatology
marked anxiety for all of life's future, unknown in which there is no physical pathology. These
moments. The resultant avoidance of most patients may "doctor shop", seeking multiple,
social situations significantly interferes with surgical procedures.Too often, they find these,
functioning, and may be lifelong. and someone to perform them, or resort to
372
alternative "medicine". gangrene due to pressure, and/or neglect.
body dysmorphicdisorder Preoccupation with "cold sore'Yblister A herpes simplex lesion
the physical appearance, in which a defect is which usually forms around the mouth. These
perceived. herpetic lesions respond to Eskalith powder
conversion disorder That physical (that within the capsule), when this is sprinkled
disorder/malfunctioning attributed to psychiatric on the lesion(s).
features. Oriental sore Cutaneous leishmaniasis, tropical
hypochondriasis Excessive anxiety about one's sore.
symptomatology, despite medical reassurance. venereal sore Chancroid lesion(s).
psychogenic pain disorder That preoccupation soroche Andean mountain sickness.
with pain (unconfirmed by objective findings). sororiation The pubertal development of breasts.
somatopagus The deformed, conjoined fetus souffle A soft, blowing bruit heard upon cardio-
with fused trunks. vascular auscultation.
somatopsychic A reference to both mind and cardiac souffle A heart murmur.
body. fetal souffle Funic souffle — the soft fetal heart
somatopsychosis Organic pathology which mas- tones (FHTs) heard in synchrony with the mater-
querades as a psychiatric disorder. nal heart beat (radial pulse).
somatotopic Correspondence between an organ splenic souffle In cases of malaria, that patho-
and its counterpart in the brain. logical finding heard over the spleen.
somatotropin Somatotrophin — the growth uterine souffle The loud, variable bruit auscul-
stimulant. Human growth hormone. tated in pregnancy.
somesthesia Somatesthesia — awareness of sound Healthy. Auditory sensations to sound
one's sensations. waves. (Exposure to excessivedecibels will
somloquism The state of being hypnotized. damage the hearing. Radios with earphones
Talking in one's sleep. which can be heard by a person in the room are
somnambulism Sleepwalking. being played at a damaging level.) An instru-
somnifacient A hypnotic, soporific. An agent ment which is introduced into a body canal/cavi-
which induces sleep. ty for exploration.
somnolence That state of anasarcous sound A moist sound heard over
lethargy/sleepiness/stupor. edematous skin.
Somogyi phenomenon Somogyi effect — breath sounds Respiratory sounds, bron-
rebound hyperglycemia in the insulin-dependent chovesicular sounds, trachea! sounds, et al.
diabetic, from an extremely low blood sugar cracked pot sounds Resonant tympanic tones
level. This usually occurs in the morning, fol- auscultated over a lung cavity(s).
lowing an unrecognized/untreated insulin reac- ejection sound That high click, audible after the
tion during the night. This swing is caused by first cardiac sound.
the release of stress hormones to counter the fetal heart tones (FHTs) Those cardiac sounds
hypoglycemia. The insulin requirements may of the fetus — which beat in synchrony with the
have to be revised, the blood glucose assessed maternal pulse.
in the middle of the night, and/or the HS (bed- friction sound The rubbing noise which is pro-
time) diet allowance adjusted. duced by adjacent, inflamed, mucous surfaces.
sonitus Tinnitus aurium. pericardial friction rub That within the peri-
sonorous rale A low wheeze caused by bronchial cardium.
congestion. pleural friction rub That within the pleurae.
sore An ulcer/lesion which may be painful, or Korotkoff's sounds Those heard when deter-
void of sensation. Healing is prolonged. mining the blood pressure (BP).
canker sore That mucous membrane ulcer physiological sounds That pounding heard
which may be secondary to systemic disease. objectively, in obstructed eustachian tubes.
decubitus ulcer A bed sore, pressure sore, rales Wheezing.
373
respiratory sounds Those heard over the tra- cate with the subarachnoid space.
chea, bronchi, lungs. personal space One's private territory which is
succussion sounds Those splashing sounds psychiatrically essential for psychosocial well-
heard from a fluid-filled cavity — when the being.
supine patient's trunk is shaken by the MD. plantar space(s) The 4 fascial spaces of each
to-and-fro sound The rasping friction of peri- foot.
carditis. pneumatic space(s) Those which contain air in
vesicular sounds Those auscultated upon bone tissue.
inspiration, when the alveoli are distended. popliteal space That behind each knee.
white sound That inaudible cover-up which prezonal space The anterior portion of each
obscures sounds such as confidential interviews eye's posterior chamber.
in an office without walls, et al. Prussak's space That posterior to Shrapnell's
Souques' phenomenon When a hemiplegic's arm membrane, within the tympanum.
is raised in abduction, finger extension may retroperitoneal space The potential area poste-
occur on the paralyzed side. rior to the parietal peritoneum.
spa A bath in warm water — attributed to have retropharyngeal space The retropharyngeal
therapeutic value (objective as well as subjec- fascial cleft, posterior to the pharynx.
tive). This water may have minerals, be moving, subarachnoid space(s) Those cranial areas
or have other qualities. between the arachnoid and the pia mater, which
space Spatium — that beyond the earth's atmos- contain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
phere. A cavity within the body. An area. subdural space That between the arachnoid
physiological dead space That area within the and the dura mater.
respiratory tract which is not involved in the subphrenic space That between the diaphragm
and the viscera.
exchange of oxygen (02)/carbon dioxide (C02). suprasternal space That within the cervical
Anatomical dead space. fascia, above the sternum.
axillary space That beneath each arm. Tenon's space The interfascial space between
circumlental space The area between the cil- the sclera and Tenon's capsule.
iary body and the crystalline lens of each eye. thenar space That fascial area of the hand,
epidural space That between the dura mater anterior to the adductor pollicis.
and the cranial bones, the vertebral periosteum zonular space(s) All cavities within the suspen-
and the dura mater. sory ligaments of the crystalline lens.
intercostal space That between each rib. space maintainer A temporary dental appliance,
interpleural space The mediastinum. used in orthodontia and dentistry.
interproximal space That between each tooth. space medicine The study of pathology and
intervillous space That which develops in the physiology, related to life beyond Earth's atmos-
placenta. phere. Included are the concerns of deceleration
lymph space That occupied by lymphoid tis- forces, sensory deprivation, vertigo, zero gravi-
sue. ty, et al.
Meckel's space Cavum trigeminale — the dural spaces of Fontana Those within the mesh of the
area containing ganglion. iridial angle.
medullary space That area of marrow within spallation The intravenous release of inert parti-
cancellous bone. cles. Pulverization of a solid.
palmar space That between the thenar and span The distance between two fixed points.
mid-palmar aspects of the hand. spargosis Elephantiasis — cutaneous hypertro-
parasinoidal space Each dura mater space phy. Postpartum engorgement.
next to the superior saggital sinus. spasm A sudden, involuntary, painful muscle
perforated space(s) Substantia perforata — contraction.
the area of vessels at the base of the brain. Bell's spasm A convulsive facial tic.
perivascular space(s) Those which communi-
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blepharospasm Winking spasms of the eyelid. spasmus caninus Risus sardonicus — the sus-
bronchospasm That life-threatening bronchial tained, facial grimace noted in the end stages of
contraction which occurs in asthma. hydrophobia.
choreiform spasm A bizarre, involuntary move- spasmus coordinatus Compulsive acts.
ment which may occur constantly. spasmus Dubini Rapid muscular contractions
clonic-tonic spasm(s) Alternating covering all/much of the body. These patients
contraction/relaxation of muscles, as seen in often expire.
grand mal seizures. spasmus glottidis Laryngismus stridulus —
esophageal spasm Aneurysmal pressure. laryngeal spasm, which is typically fatal.
Paroxysmal dysphagia which may be attributed spasmus nictitans Blepharospasm.
to chest constriction. Croup (spasmodic or spastic diplegia That form of cerebral palsy
true), intense dyspnea, hydrophobia, hysteria, characterized by rigidity/weakness of the legs.
laryngeal foreign body/ulceration, laryngismus Causes include a multitude of perinatal prob-
stridulus, locomotor ataxia in laryngeal crisis, lems. All experience muscle contractures from
pertussis, pressure from mediastinal spasticity and disuse. Other muscle groups
aneurysm/neoplasm, or tetany mayexacerbate respond in severe hyperreflexia. An early sign is
spasm of the esophagus.. seen in the toddler who consistently walks on
laryngospasm A life-threatening constriction of tip-toe. Involuntary movements manifest them-
the larynx — which can be triggered by selves by 4 years of age. Associated medical
attempts at endotracheal (ET) tube induction, et problems may include cognitive deficits, hearing
al. impairment, learning disabilities, neurogenic
tetanic spasm The tonic contractions seen in bladder, seizures, speech defects, strabismus,
tetany, secondary to the pH and calcium (Ca) and/or visual impairment. These patients need
reduction by parathyroidectomy or other Ca- the coordination of medical, surgical, and/or
depleting etiology. orthopedic services.
tonic spasm Uninterrupted contractions. spasticity Pathologically rigid contractions with
torsion spasm That contraction which twists a an upper motor neuron lesion as the etiology.
body part. spastic paralysis Paresis accompanied by mus-
toxic spasm A seizure caused by a poisonous cle spasms.
agent. spatial discrimination The ability to discern the
spasmodic dysphonia Uncontrollable laryngeal tactile sensation of 2 points.
contractions which may respond to a toxin relat- spatium Space.
ed to botulinism. These patients (pts) may find spatula A handle and blade without a cutting
their voices "cutting out" between syllables, edge. A spatula (tongue blade, et al.) should
words, and mid-sentence. always be used to apply ointments, to achieve
spasmodic stricture The constriction of a canal, the lightest layer.
caused by muscular contractions. specialist A professional whose area of expertise
spasmogen That which produces contractions. concentrates his/her scope of practice (such as
spasmolygmus Singultus. Spasmodic sobbing. a diabetologist, psychiatric RN, et al.).
spasmolysin That which abolishes contractions. species A biological classification capable of
spasmolytic An antispasmodic which eradi- interbreeding.
cates/prevents involuntary muscle contractions. specific That which is explicit, restricted, pre-
spasmophemia The speech disorder of stutter- dictably cause-and-effect.
ing. specific action The precise attack of an agent on
spasmophilia In rickets, the tendency toward an identified tissue or pathogen.
convulsions or tetany. specific gravity The weight of a specimen (usu-
spasmus Spasm. ally urine) in comparison to water (1.000). The
spasmus agitans Paralysis agitans. normal osmolality of urine: 1.002-1.030.
spasmus bronchialis Bronchial asthma. specific phobia "Simple phobia". That situation
375
provoked by a terrorizing event. This feared spermatemphraxis Obstructed spermatic emis-
object/event often leads to avoidance behavior. sion.
Phobias which persist into adulthood rarely spermatism Spermatic ejaculation achieved by
remit. These phobias are: 1. Blood/injection/ whatever method.
injury type which elicits a strong, vasovagal spermatitis Deferentitis, funiculitis — inflamma-
response; 2. Situational type; 3. Natural environ- tion of the ductus deferens/spermatic cord.
mental type; 4. Animal type; 5. Other types. spermatocele Spermatocyst — that cystic tumor
specimen A sample of body fluid/tissue. of the epididymus containing
speech Articulated sounds which verbalize one's spermatozoa/semen. The seminal vesicle.
thoughts (or attempt to do so). spermatocidal Spermatolytic, spermolytic, sper-
aphonic speech Whispered conversation. matotoxin, spermatoxin, spermotoxin, sperma-
These patients will devise their own form of cide, spermatozoicide. (This may be another
communication. species' spermatozoa.) That which kills sperm.
ataxic speech A cerebellar defect involving spermatocystectomy Surgical excision of the
one's spoken language. seminal vesicles.
circumstantial speech Excessively detailed spermatocystitis Seminal vesiculitis.
conversation with multiple interruptions about spermatophobia An exaggerated fear of sperma-
oneself. This may signal manic psychopathy. torrhea.
clipped speech That with omitted syllables and spermatorrhea Incontinence of semen. This
consonants. pathological condition occurs without orgasm.
echo speech Echolalia — psychiatric repetition spermophlebectasia Spermatic varicosities.
of others' words (persisting beyond early child- sphacelation The formation of necrosis/gan-
hood). grene. Mortification.
esophageal speech Postoperative therapy of sphacelotoxin An abortifacient derived from
the laryngectomized patient — in which s/he is ergotamine.
taught to use the esophagus, mouth and phar- sphagiasmus Neck spasms experiencedduring a
ynx to produce vocalization. grand mal seizure.
explosive speech That used by the mentally sphenocephalus That fetal anomaly of a wedge-
disordered patient, with sudden volume, exple- shaped head.
tives, exaggerated emotions, et al. sphenoiditis Sphenoidalnecrosis.
interjectional speech That interrupted by the sphenoidotomy A surgical incision into the sphe-
speaker's inarticulate sounds. noid.
mirror speech Syllables within the word are sphenoid-sinus carcinoma Extracranial lesions
dropped/reversed. which include chordoma, chondrosarcoma,
press of speech Racing conversation with/with- esthesioneuroblastoma, fibrosarcoma, heman-
out flight of ideas. This tirade is often a mono- giopericytoma, melanoma, metastatic malignant
logue. This may be seen in the manic or schizo- tumors, plasmacytoma, lymphoma, rhab-
phrenic patient. domyosarcoma.
scanning speech Hesitation between staccato sphenoid-sinus mucocele A rare, benign lesion
syllables. which may mimic chordoma or a pituitary neo-
slurred speech That with impaired articulation. plasm.
staccato speech Slow, labored speech in which sphenosis That obstetrical emergency in which
each syllable is articulated separately. This may the delivering fetus has become impacted.
be noted in multiple sclerosis (MS). sphere A globe. One's environment.
stereotypical speech That which employs spheresthesia Globus hystericus — a morbid
excessive repetition of the patient's (pt's) and affect of the neurotic patient (pt).
others' phrases. spherocytosis Hemolytic anemia in which
spermacrasia Aspermia — semen void of erythrocytes become spherical instead of disc-
sperm. shaped.
376
hereditary spherocytosis That hemopathology
characterized by hemolytic anemia, jaundice,
and splenomegaly. The only procedure of choice
is splenectomy.
spherolith A miniscule renal calculus in the
neonate.
spheroma A spherical tumor.
spherospermia The pathologically spherical
sperm without a tail.
spherule A miniature sphere.
sphincterectomy Sphincterotomy — surgical
excision of any sphincter.
sphincterismus Painful muscle spasms of the
sphincter ani. Sphincteralgia.
sphincteritis Inflammation of the muscle(s) of a
sphincter.
sphincteroplasty Surgical repair of the sphincter
muscle(s).
sphincterotome A surgical instrument which
develops an incision into any sphincter.
sphingolipidosis Gangliosidosis — genetic
errors of lipid metabolism, characterizedby Ambulation in a spica cast. Physiotherapy taught this
neurological deterioration in the neonate. These 3-year-old to "Standtall like a soldier and hop like a
bunny."
fatal conditions include Fabry's disease,
Krabbe's leukodystrophy, Kufs'disease,
Niemann-Pick disease, Sandhoff's disease, rate than by auscultation.
Spielmeyer-Vogt disease, Tay-Sachs' disease. sphygmotonograph That instrument which
Gaucher's disease spares its victims — provid- simultaneously times and documents the arterial
ing the adult form has been contracted. blood pressure as well as the brachial, carotid,
sphygmic Sphygmus — reference to the pulse. and jugular pulses.
sphygmoboiometer A monitor which measures spica A reverse spiral bandage.
the force of the pulse. spica hip cast That which immobilizes the pelvis
sphygmocardioscope Sphygmocardiograph — and leg(s) to treat pelvic/femoral fractures and
that which records the pulse and heart action. diseases. Meticulous and creative cast care is
sphygmomanometer An instrument which mea- essential. When ordered, mobility may be
sures arterial blood pressure (BP). These come achieved with a reclining wheelchair, or with
in many designs — principally mercury (more crutches if the child is small. At no time may
accurate) and aneroid. Errors which may occur weight be borne on any cast which does not
in the determination of BP include placement of have a walking pad. The abduction bar may
the instrument over clothing, too-rapid descent never be used to lift the patient.
of the needle/mercury, retakes at the same site bilateral/double hip spica Both legs are cast-
without rest, digit preference(reading most ed.
numerals as ending in zero, et al.). unilateral/single hip spica One leg is casted.
random-zero sphygmomanometer A unique spiculum Spicule — a sharp bone fragment.
instrument which has a floating zero. This deter- spider poisoning The few which are toxic to
mines the BP while enhancing the objectivity of humans may cause abdominal symptomatology,
the staff. collapse, convulsions, necrosis, paralysis, radi-
sphygmopalpation Blood pressure determination ating pain, unconsciousness. Prompt emer-
by touching the pulse (P) — which is less accu- gency care is mandatory, to prevent death.
377
Spielmeyer-Vogt disease Batten disease — the patient at risk. Following this procedure, the
juvenile cerebral sphingolipidosis. This genetic patient should remain flat for as many hours as
error of metabolism ends early with fatal nerve tolerated, to prevent postlumbar puncture
deterioration. headache. Should this complication occur, intra-
spill Overflow,excess. venous fluids are the therapy of choice.
cellular spill Blood/lymph dissemination of spinal reflex That originating in the spinal cord.
metastatic cells. autonomic hyperreflexia Autonomic dysreflex-
radioactive spill That massive, life-threatening ia. This is an exaggerated response, in the
leak of any source of radiation. para/quadriplegic, to the stimulation of consti-
spina The spine. pation/urinary retention, or of skin from tactile
spina bifida Bifid spine, schistorachis, rachi- pain, pressure, or thermal stimulation. A strict
schisis. A congenital spinal malunion which elimination schedule must be maintained by/for
causes serious complications/paralysis, hydror- the patient.
rhachis. spinal shock Occurring caudad to the transverse
spina bifida occulta Hemirachischisis. "Hidden" sectioning of the spinal cord, somatic and vis-
spina bifida in which evisceration of the spinal ceral reflexes may be suppressed, muscle tone
meninges does not occur. lost, paresis inflicted.
spina ventosa Tuberculosis of the spine. spine The spinal column, consisting of 33 verte-
spinal anesthesia Medullary narcosis, rachianes- brae.
thesia — deep sleep achieved by intrathecal bifid spine Spina bifida.
injection of the anesthetic agent. frontal spine Nasal spine.
spinal block Intrathecal block — Spinal Henle's spine Suprameatal spine of the exter-
catheters placed for pain management. nal auditory meatus.
spinal dysraphia Failure of the vertebral arches iliac spines The anterior superior, anterior infe-
to close at any point along the spine. Other rior, posterior superior, and posterior inferior
skeletal/neurological anomalies may coexist spines of the ilium.
beneath this spinal defect. ischial spine Sciatic spine.
spinal fracture This is treated by surgery and/or neural spine The vertebral spinous
body casting, to maintain the spine in hyperex- process(es).
tension. Nothing is ever to be inserted in typhoid spine Spinal ankylosis caused by acute
casts/braces for the patient's comfort, as this infective arthritis, in comorbidity with typhoid
will change the crucial alignment. If nursing fever.
measures and ordered analgesia do not relieve Spinnbarkeit (SBK) The tenacity of cervical
the discomfort, the physician should be mucus during ovulation.
informed. spintheropia The ophthalmic sensation of
spinal fusion Surgical bonding of adjacent verte- sparks.
bral bodies. This may be achieved by bone spiradenoma Spiroma — a sweat gland tumor
grafting or from chemonucleolysis — in which which is benign.
the enzyme chymopapain is injected into the spirit Spiritus — any alcoholic, distilled, volatile
spine to dissolve the herniated nucleus pulpo- liquid compound.
sus. Spondylosyndesis. spirit of ammonia An objectionable, pungent
spinalgia Discomfort from vertebral pressure. compound packaged in an ampoule. In cases of
spinal puncture Spinal tap (at L 3-4) — that by syncope, inhalation of this noxious scent will
which spinal fluid is aspirated for diagnostic elicit a reflexive stimulation of the respiratory
study, to allow space for radio-opaque agents, center. This has fallen into disuse.
to administer antineoplastic agents, or to anes- spiritual therapy The adjunctive psychotherapy
thetize the patient. If this invasive procedure is of including religious harmony and reassurance
performed in the presence of increasedcere- to guide the patient to a wholistic healing. The
brospinal fluid (CSF) pressure, this will place doctrinal concepts shared by the nurse should
378
be compatible with the patient's. spleen, with cardiovascular compromise.
Spirochaeta icterohaemorrhagiae Leptospira Diagnostic are the signs of pallor, splenomegaly,
progressive anemia, and cardiovascular col-
icterohaemorrhagiae — microorganisms found
in acute, febrile jaundice/Weil's disease. lapse. Thrombocytopenia is noted. Nursing staff
Spirochaeta pallida Treponema pallidum — the should not palpate these spleens.
causative spirochete of syphilis. splenicterus An inflamed spleen in the jaundiced
spirochetemia Syphilitic microorganisms within patient.
the blood. splenitis Lienitis — an acute inflammation of the
spirocheticidal Spirochetalytic — that lethal to spleen which includes hypertrophy, proliferative
spirochetes. disease, splenomegaly, suppurative infection,
spirochetolysis Eradication of syphilitic microor- secondary to acute infectious pathology.
ganisms by chemotherapy, lysins, and/or anti- splenization Tissue transformation to resemble
bodies. splenic tissue.
spirocheturia Spirochetes found in the urine. splenocele Lienocele, splenic herniation.
spirokinesis That movement of organisms in a splenohepatomegaly Hypertrophy of the spleen
coiled direction, in the absence of reference and liver.
points. splenolaparotomy A surgical incision into the
spirometry Measured pulmonary capacity. spleen via an abdominal approach.
splanchna Viscera. splenolysin An antibiotic which kills splenic tis-
splanchnetopia Visceral dislocation. sue.
splanchnemphraxis Organic obstruction. splenomalacia Pathological softening of the
splanchnesthesia Awareness of one's viscera. spleen.
splanchnicotomy That surgical sectioning of a splenomegaly Megalosplenia, splenomegalia —
splanchnic nerve. splenic hypertrophy.
splanchnocele Herniation of an abdominal congestive splenomegaly Banti's syndrome —
organ. Splanchnocoele. anemia, hemorrhage, splenic hypertrophy, and
splanchnodynia Abdominal pain. portal cirrhosis.
splanchnopathia Visceral pathology. hemolytic splenomegaly Splenic hypertrophy
splanchnoptosia Splanchnoptosis — visceral with hemolytic anemia, secondary to hemolytic
prolapse. Abdominal enteroptosis, ptosis, vis- anemia.
ceroptosis. splenoncus Tumor of the spleen, splenic neo-
splenadenoma Hyperplastic splenomegaly. plasm.
splenalgia Splenodynia — splenic neuralgia. splenonephric Lienorenal — referring to the
splenectasia Splenomegaly, splenectasis, spleen and kidney.
enlarged spleen. splenopancreatic Lienopancreatic — referring to
splenectomy Laparosplenectomy — surgical the spleen and pancreas.
excision of the spleen (often performed follow- splenopathy Abnormalities of the spleen.
ing abdominal trauma. Pediatric patients may be splenopexy Surgical fixation of a movable
at risk of developing postoperative, fulminant spleen.
infections.) splenophrenic Referring to the spleen and
splenectopia Splenectopy — a displaced spleen, diaphragm.
the "floating spleen". splenopneumonia Pulmonary tissue changes in
splenelcosis The abscessed/ulcerated spleen. pneumonia, in which the cells resemble splenic
splenemia Comorbidity of leukemia with cells.
splenomegaly. Splenic congestion by blood. splenoptosis A "dropped" spleen — caudal dis-
Splenemphraxis, splenohemia. placement of this organ.
splenic sequestration crisis A potentially fatal splenorenal Splenonephric, lienorenal, spleen
complication of sickle cell disease. These chil- and kidney(s).
dren have a large portion of their blood in the splenorenal shunt In portal hypertension, the
379
splenic and renal veins are anastomosed to the Dupuytren's splint That used in Pott's fracture
general venous circulation. to prevent eversion of the ankle.
splenorrhagia Hemorrhage of the ruptured dynamic splint A functional appliance which
spleen. augments patient-initiated movement.
splenorrhaphy Suturing the lacerated spleen. Fox's splint An immobilizer for clavicular frac-
splenotomy Laparosplenotomy — that surgical tures.
incision into the spleen. Gordon's splint An arm/hand appliance which
splenulus An accessory, rudimentary spleen. immobilizes Colles' fractures.
splint An appliance of any material which ren- inflatable splint An emergency immobilizer for
ders a part of the body flexibly or rigidly immov- an injured extremity. Compartments are inflated
able. to prevent movement and further damage to the
acrylic resin bite guard That which prevents site. Circulation must be checked diligently.
bruxism, facilitates occlusal positioning, and Airlift pilots/crews should be informed of the
stabilizes teeth. presence of pneumatic devices, prior to takeoff.
Agnew's splint That applied to a fractured Jones' nasal splint That used with fractured
metacarpus or patella. bones of the nose.
airplane splint That prescribed for humeral Levis' splint A perforated metal support
fractures, or to achieve axillary abduction in extending from the palm of the hand to the
burns and grafting cases. elbow.
anchor splint That applied to stabilize fractures Mclntire's splint A posterior support for the
of the jaw. total leg.
Ashhurst's splint An appliance which extends Sayre's splint Reinforcement for joint disease
to the foot, applied following excision of the in the ankle, knee, hip.
patella. Stromeyer's splint A hinged splint used espe-
Balkan splint A tension appliance which exerts cially for the knee.
constant extension to a femoral fracture. Thomas' knee splint That which prevents
banjo splint An appliance with rubber bands, weight bearing on diseased knees/hips by trans-
prescribed to reduce fractures and/or contrac- ferring the patient's weight to the ischial crest.
tures of the fingers. Thomas' splint That metal frame used in emer-
Bond's splint That used for radial fractures. gency care. The splint's ring is placed high on
Bowlby's splint That applied to the fractured the patient's hip. The leg is then wrapped until
humeral shaft. emergency reduction can beachieved.
Cabot's splint That metal appliance which pos- Volkmann's splint That employed in the treat-
teriorly supports the entire leg. ment of leg fractures.
Carter's intranasal splint A winged, hinged Zimmer splint That support encompassing the
bridge of steel, employed during reduction of a knee above and below — to allow recovery of
depressed nasal bridge. the knee joint.
coaptation splint An adjustable support which splinter A sharp fragment imbedded in tissue.
guards against overriding bone fragments. splinter hemorrhage Linear streaking beneath
Denis Browne splint Following manipulation the nails — symptomatic of subacute bacterial
and casting, the infant with talipes equinovarus endocarditis.
(clubfoot) may be put to bed for the night with split foot/hand/pelvis/tongue Congenital anom-
shoes on (attached to an arched bar) to keep alies.
the feet in corrected alignment. Children quickly spondylalgia Vertebral pain, spondylodynia.
adapt to appliances when applied with decisive- spondylarthritis Osteoarthritis of the spine.
ness, free of bargaining. spondylarthrocace Spondylocace — a tubercular
dental splint That device applied to the patient spine.
with fractured, loosened, replanted, or post-sur- spondylexarthrosis Vertebral dislocation.
gically repaired teeth. spondylitis Vertebral inflammation — which may
380
be tubercular. sometimes attributed to idiopathy or misdiagno-
ankylosing spondylitis Marie-Strumpell sis.
spondylitis, rheumatoid spondylitis. spontaneous version The unassisted conversion
Kiimmell's spondylitis That traumatic injury, of a fetus from transverse lie to breech/vertex
compression fracture which does not present presentation.
symptoms until a later date. sporadic That which is scattered, occasional.
tuberculous spondylitis Pott's disease. sporotrichosis A fungal skin infection character-
spondylitis deformans Inflamed vertebral joints ized by abscess and granulomatous lymph node
— the deposits of which may fuse, causing the formation.
spine to become distorted and rigid. sport A mutation — that new genetic variation
spondylodiagnosis That assessment made by which has not appeared before.
testing the visceral reflexes elicited by vertebral sports medicine A newer specialty which over-
percussion. sees the prevention, treatment, and investigation
spondylodymus Conjoined fetuses with vertebral of athletic injuries. Patient education is essen-
fusion. tial.
spondylolisthesis Spondyloptosis — degenera- sprain A ligamentous joint injury.
tive subluxation of the lumbosacral vertebrae. sprue Tropical (idiopathic), or nontropical dis-
spondylomalacia Vertebral softening. eases of unknown etiology. Digestive disorders,
spondylopyosis Vertebral inflammation with sup- impaired absorption of nutrients with weakness
puration. may be noted in the following stages: I —
spondyloschisis Rhachiochisis — congenital fis- asthenia, diarrhea, fatigue, steatorrhea, weight
suring of the vertebral arches. loss; II — glossitis, nutritional deficiencies,
spondylosis Ankylosis of the vertebra(e). This stomatitis; III — macrocytic anemia.
degenerative osteoarthritis of cervical/lumbar squamous Resembling scales. Desquamation.
vertebrae may produce pain and/or paresthesia. stab To pierce with a sharp instrument.
rhizomelic spondylosis Ankylosis affecting the stab wound That developed beside the operative
shoulders/hips. incision of abdominal surgery, to admit a drain.
spondylosyndesis That surgically created inter- There may be more than one.
vertebral ankylosis. stabile Immovable, that which is fixed.
spondylotomy Rachitomy — excision of a por- stabilization Reinforcement of that status which
tion of the spine to facilitate delivery of an is without negativechange.
impacted infant, or to revise a defect. staccato speech Scanning speech — interrup-
sponge Spongia — any substance which tion of one's own sounds, syllables, and words.
absorbs. To lightly bathe a part of the body. All stage A period(s) within the course of an illness
forms of operating room sponges are meticu- or other length of time.
ously counted during surgery, and accounted defervescent stage The period during which a
for before the surgical wound is closed. Since fever is decreasing.
all sponges admitted to the operating room have eruptive stage That time during which a rash
a radio-opaque band, portable X-ray is sum- or tooth appears.
moned if there should be any discrepancy in the pre-eruptive stage The period following expo-
instrument or sponge counts. Only then may the sure to a communicable disease, and the
cavitary incision be closed. appearance of a rash.
spontaneous That which is voluntary, occurring pyrogenetic stage Presence of a fever.
without a definable cause. stage of invasion The time during which the
pathological fracture A spontaneous, painful causative organism is present in the asympto-
fracture of metastasized/demineralized bone matic host.
which occurs without trauma. stage of latency The incubation period of a com-
spontaneous remission A rare (possibly contro- municable disease.
versial) recovery from serious disease. This is staging Grading and differentiation of malignan-
381
cy, in order that the most specific tumor proto- staphyloma Scleral/corneal protrusion.
col will benefit each patient's individual progno- anterior staphyloma Keratoglobus.
sis. intercalary staphyloma That involving the
Stamm technique The development of a gastros-
tomy to achieve gavage feedings or prolonged sclera and the iris.
gastrointestinal (Gl) decompression. This posterior staphyloma A scleral protrusion
surgery can be performed rapidly — which is which is directed toward the back of the orbit.
essential with fragile infants. For cases which total staphyloma The cornea, replaced by an
will be gavaged long term, the gastrostomy tube opaque protrusion, may need to be treated by
will be converted to a gastrostomy button. ablation.
standard That established criterion by which the
performance of others is evaluated. staphylopharyngeus Palatopharyngeus.
standard of care That minimal level which still staphylopharyngorrhaphy Staphyloplasty —
delivers quality nursing care.
standards of practice The basis against which a plastic surgery of the soft palate and uvula.
practice/profession is evaluated. staphylorrhaphy Suturing reconstruction of the
standing orders Those specific to a cleft palate.
physician/medical group which are to be fol- staphyloschisis Cleft palate.
lowed for their patients. Often designated by stapling A method of sealing heavy tissues,
diagnosis, these orders usually include PRNs.
suture lines under stress, and other incisions at
standstill Cardiac and/or respiratory arrest risk because of obesity, site, tension, et al.
(absence of functioning). Stargardt's disease A rare, genetic condition
that results in diminished vision. Compromised
Stanton's disease Melioidosis — an hearing may also be present.
acute/chronic illness manifested by abscess for- startle syndrome That involuntary, excessive
mation, pneumonia, septicemia, death. reaction of some to sudden light, noise, touch,
etal.
stapedectomy The surgical treatment of otoscle- starvation The progressive stages to death are
rosis. Excision of the stapes is followed by per- cessation of hunger, weight loss, glycogen uti-
manent placement of a prosthesis. A highly reg- lization, fat utilization, nausea, avitaminosis,
imented postoperative month follows, during dehydration, and catabolism.
which the hearing should become more acute. stasibasiphobia The delusion that one is unable
to walk.
This meets with much success. stasimorphy Stasimorphia — deformity sec-
staphylectomy Uvulotomy, staphylotomy. ondary to developmental failure(s).
staphylococcal Pertaining to this highly resistant STAT The medical command paged, spoken, or
written by physicians and nurses to designate
strain/source of infection — staphylococcus. "Immediately!" It is intended that those
staphylococcal actinophytosis Botrymycosis, in responding to a STAT order, do so without
debate. (Clarification is allowed.)
which the granulomatous lesions grow staphy- state A condition of being.
lococci when cultured. anxiety state Continuous apprehension.
staphylococcal food poisoning This toxic condi- dream state Diminished consciousness. The
tion may produce cramping, diarrhea, nausea environment seems to be unreal.
with emesis, prostration, and/or shock, but fatigue state Neurasthenia. A depressive state
rarely death. followed by nervous exhaustion.
staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome That steady state Dynamic equilibrium.
infectious disease seen in children with purulent static Unmoving, at rest, in balance, in equilibri-
conjunctivitis, nasopharyngeal infection, otitis um.
media, and/or large, flaccid bullae. Sepsis may statics Dynamics.
be noted. static splint A brace with no movable parts, to
staphylococcemia Staphylohemia. achieve positioning, protection, stability, and
staphylodermatitis Staphylococcal skin condi-
tions.
382
support. benign.
stationary Unmoving.
statistics Collecting, organizing, analyzing, and steatonecrosis Death of fatty tissue in small
areas.
interpreting numerical input.
medical statistics Those pertinent to scientific steatopathy That dermal pathology of sebaceous
data. glands.
morbidity statistics Those which calculate fac-
tors relating to disease. steatopygia Enhanced obesity of the gluteal tis-
vital statistics Birth, marriage, death — that sues — as may be seen in many of African
data which is generally consideredto be in the descent, et al.
public domain and, therefore, not confidential.
statokinetic reflexes Accelerator reflexes, kinetic steatorrhea Seborrhea — the fatty stools of pan-
reflexes, reactions of the head/body. creatic disease. Increase in sebaceous gland
status A patient's condition/state. secretion.
status anginosus The patient in unrelieved angi- idiopathic steatorrhea Sprue — gastrointesti-
na pectoris. nal (Gl) disorders with impaired absorption.
status arthriticus That patient at risk for gout.
status asthmaticus Intractable, persistent asth- steatorrhea simplex Excess secretion of the
ma. These patients go on to die if the sudden, facial sebaceous glands.
rapid deterioration leading to respiratory failure
is not reversed. steering wheel injury Being thrown against the
status epilepticus Intractable grand mal steering wheel in a motor vehicle accident
seizures, which may require general anesthesia (MVA) may cause the driver to receive chest
to interrupt. wall/ribcage injuries and/or cardiac contusion.
status parathyreoprivus That following total Airbags in autos decreases this risk, but may kill
parathyroidectomy. small children (who must never ride in front
status praesens The status of a monitored seats).
patient.
status raptus Ecstasy. stegnosis Costiveness — constipation, stenosis.
status sternuens Uninterrupted sneezing. Steinert's disease Dystrophia myotonia — that
status vertiginosus Unrelieved dizziness.
staunch To stop bleeding at its source. inherited condition which includes cataract for-
steal Diversion of circulation. mation, muscular atrophy, myotonia.
subclavian steal That shunting of cerebral cir- Stein-Leventhal syndrome Polycystic ovary syn-
culation in the presence of an occluded subcla- drome — that endocrine disturbance which
vian artery. causes polycystic ovaries and anovulation
uterine steal In a multiple pregnancy, one fetus because of constant ovarian stimulation by the
may be much smaller than its more viable sib- pituitary luteinizing hormone. The resultant
ling(s). infertility may respond to treatment.
steatadenoma A sebaceous gland tumor. Steinmann's extension Skeletal traction attached
steatocele A fatty tumor of the scrotum. to the Steinmann pin — which maintains the
steatocryptosis Sebaceousgland pathology. fractured bone in alignment.
steatocystoma multiplex That dermatitis in stellate Star-shaped.
which are developed multiple sebaceouscysts. stellate fracture That fissured break with radiat-
steatogenous That which causes fatty degenera- ing cracks in the bone.
tion, produces sebaceouspathology. stellate veins Stars of Verheyen — those plexes
steatolysis Lipolysis — fat decomposition, beneath the renalcapsule.
emulsification, hydrolysis, absorption. Stellwag's sign Reduced/absentwinking,
steatoma A sebaceous cyst, lipoma which is accompanied by widening of the eyelid area, as
seen in Graves' disease.
stenocardia Cardiac neuralgia, angina pectoris.
stenocephaly A narrowed cranium.
stenochoria Stenosis — partial constriction.
stenocoriasis Pupillary constriction.
stenosis A constriction, stricture of a duct, tube.
stenostomia A constricted mouth.
383
stent That reinforcement which secures an anas- steroidal withdrawal syndrome Those adrenal
tomosis/graft during healing. insufficiency symptoms seen in long-term
steppage gait A high-stepping gait which per- patients whose corticosteroids have been dis-
mits ambulation despite footdrop — as may be continued. When the adrenal functioning been
seen when the peroneal nerve is involved in dia- long-suppressed, an appropriate, life-saving
betic neuritis. response will be absent in times of major ill-
stercolith Coprolith, fecalith — a fecal impaction. ness, injury, surgery. This failure of the body to
stercoroma Coproma, scatoma, fecaloma. respond to stress may also affect the patient
stercus Excreta, excrement,feces. psychiatrically. Gradual tapering off cortico-
stereoagnosis Astereognosis. steroids (when feasible), will prevent this phe-
stereoanesthesia That inability to perceive nomenon. Steroid-induced psychosis clears as
objects by tactile shape. The absence of stere- soon as the steroid is discontinued (DC'd).
ognosis, astereognosis. sterterous respirations That snoring sound
stereoarthrolysis Surgical construction of a new heard with labored breathing.
joint in the patient with ankylosis. stethalgia Chest pain.
stereo-orthopter A reflecting device used to treat stethogram Phonocardiogram — a recording of
strabismus. audible and graphic heart sounds.
stereophantoscope That stereoscopic instrument stethomyositis Stethomyitis — inflammation of
which tests visual acuity. the chest wall musculature.
stereophorometer A prismatic device which stethoparalysis Paresis of the chest muscles.
assists in the correction of defective vision. stethoscope An instrument which enhances
stereopsis Stereoscopic, 3-dimensional visual sounds auscultated within the body.
perception. binaural stethoscope That which permits
stereotaxis Mapping the brain for precise neuro- sounds to be heard in both ears.
surgical procedures. compound stethoscope That study instrument
stereotypy That behavior seen in some catatonic which allows the clinical instructor and student
states — the meaningless repetition of to hear the same sounds simultaneously.
words/movements. fetoscope A stethoscope which is held without
stereotypic movement disorder Driven, non- hands, to obtain more definitive fetal heart tones
functional motor behavior, which may be mutila- (FHTs). A doppler will enhance those sounds.
tive. This disfunctioning interferes markedly percussion stethoscope A pretracheal stetho-
with the child's activities and relationships. scope, designed for intercostal auscultation.
sterility That state which is void of living stethospasm Convulsive movement of the pec-
microorganisms. The absence of fertility. toral muscles.
sternalgia Sternodynia — pain felt in the ster- Stevens-Johnson syndrome Erythema multi-
num. forme — a serious, violent, dermatological reac-
sternal puncture Aspiration of bone marrow tion which can follow a respiratory infection,
from the sternum for purposes of examination, penicillin side effect, or be otherwise triggered
donation, or replacement by donated cells. by an allergen. Presenting with fever and
sternodymia Sternopagia — conjoined twins malaise, various lesions follow. Viscera may be
fused at the breastbone. involved in this disorder of unknown etiology.
sternotomy Surgical dissection of the sternum. This allergic rhinitis with lesions is considered
sternotrypesis Surgical perforation of the breast- to be a hypersensitivity reaction, with patients
bone. who may go on to die.
sternutament Sternutator — that which elicits stibialism Antimony (Sb) toxicity.
sneezing. Stickler's syndrome Hereditary arthro-ophthal-
sternutatio Sneezing. mopathy is an under-diagnosed condition affect-
sternutatio convulsiva Paroxysmal, allergic ing the ocular, skeletal, and orofacial organ sys-
sneezing. tems. Joint involvement includes hypermobili y,
384
enlargement, and cartilagenous degeneration stimulus An agent which directly stimulates liv-
which lead to arthropathy later in life. Marked ing cells.
pleiotropism may be seen, as well as an optical- adequate stimulus That which elicits a
ly empty vitreous behind the lens. Many patients response.
exhibit high myopia and diffuse hypopigmenta- iatrotropic stimulus The chief complaint —
tion of the fundus. Of unknown etiology, symp- that which forces the patient to seek medical
toms of intermittent aching, muscular tightness, care.
and connective tissue dyplasia may progress to liminal stimulus The threshold, minimal stimu-
permanent limitation of movement. Some have lus — the weakest stimulus capable of eliciting
responded to selected anticonvulsants. A seri- a response.
ous manifestation of this disease may be the nociceptive stimulus A painful, injurious stim-
Pierre Robin sequence,a form of micrognathia ulus.
(with less clefting). Neonatal facial anomalies subliminal stimulus That stimulation of which
may normalize by adulthood. Hearing loss is the patient is unaware.
typical. Underdiagnosis can lead to blindness. thermal stimulus That produced by extreme
stiff-man syndrome A rare disorder of the cen- temperature (T).
tral nervous system (CMS)which affects both unconditioned stimulus That which is too nox-
sexes. Characterized by spasms and rigidity, ious to ignore, and elicits an unconditioned
these patients may be at risk for carcinoma response.
(CA), diabetes mellitus (DM), occult tumors, sting A sharp pain.
and/or opisthotonus. stippled Punctate areas which coalesce.
stigma Stigmata — a physical or psychological stirrups Those supports on an operating/exami-
mark which lasts for life. nation/delivery table which hold the patient's
hysterical stigma Any mark which causes the knees/heels to accomodate lithotomy position-
patient emotional stress. This may be objective- ing. Laparotomy socks will provide the patient
ly insignificant. comfort and dignity — especially during a pro-
psychic stigmata Emotional/mental states char- longed procedure.
acterized by suggestive susceptibility. stockinet Tubular cotton knit in various widths
stigmata of degeneration Abnormally-sized and unending lengths. These secure dressings
head, absent beard in the male, deformed ears, on nonconforming sites, serve as slings, line all
defective mentality, hirsuitism, imbalanced eyes, casts, et al.
low forehead, et al. Stokes-Adams syndrome Adams-Stokes syn-
stigmatometer Astigmatometer — an oph- drome, Stokes-Adams syncope. That syncopal
thalmic instrument which assessesvisual state caused by cerebral circulation interrupted
refraction. by heart block. The patient may convulse or lose
stilette A thin surgical probe. consciousness. Emergency cardiac pacing is
stillbirth Delivery of an infant which expired prior required.
to parturition. Stokes' disease Exophthalmic goiter.
stillicidium Dripping, dribbling. Stokes' law That muscle superior to an inflamed
stillicidium lacrimarum Epiphora — tearing. mucous/serous membrane may be paralyzed.
stillicidium narum The rhinorrhea of coryza. stoma A mouth, pore, opening — natural or sur-
stillicidium urinae Urinary incontinence, stran- gically created.
gury. stomatalgia Stomatodynia — oral pain.
Still's disease Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. stomatitis Thrush — oral inflammation, gin-
Difficult to identify, and without a known cure, givoglossitis.
this involvement of organs (rather than joints) aphthous stomatitis Follicular thrush, vesicular
flares up periodically, leaving no permanent joint thrush — the formation of mucosal canker
damage. ulcers within the mouth.
stimulant An agent which enhances functioning. catarrhal stomatitis Uncomplicated thrush.
385
corrosive stomatitis That caused by oral expo- frothy stools Representative of colonic spastici-
sure to caustic substances. ty, intestinal flatus, inflammation.
herpetic stomatitis That characterized by her- lienteric stools Noted in inflammatory stom-
pes simplex eruptions. Eskalith powder sprin- ach/upper bowel conditions, when undigested
kled on these lesions helps them resolve. food is seen.
mercurial stomatitis The form of thrush seen meconium stools The first feces of the
in those who work with mercury (Hg), those neonate.
who receive large doses of mercurials, and fol- melena Tarry stools seen in cases of swal-
lowing Hg ingestion. Tender gums, a metallic lowed blood from the oropharyngeal/respirato-
taste, sialorrhea, erythema, and/or edema may ry/gastro-intestinal/trauma and/or pathology
be experienced. Progressive ulceration of patient. Hepatic cirrhosis or carcinoma may also
mucosae, loss of teeth, and mandibular necrosis produce these tarry stools.
follow. membranous shreds That which occurs in
mycotic stomatitis Pediatric inflammation of colonic carcinoma, dysentery, acute proctitis,
the oropharynx. This form of thrush is charac- relapsing fever, sloughing of the intestinal
terized by white ulceration, accompanied by mucosae.
fever and gastrointestinal (Gl) inflammation. storm An exacerbation of a significant symp-
traumatic stomatitis Mechanical injury from tom/syndrome.
biting the cheek, sharp teeth, poorly-fitting den- renal storm In patients with aortic regurgita-
tures, orthodontic wires, et al. tion, renal symptoms may accompany a neuro-
ulcerative stomatitis Vincent's angina, trench sis.
mouth. Necrosis of the jaw with loosening of thyroid storm Expedient intervention is manda-
the teeth may occur in severecases. tory in this life-threatening complication of thy-
Debridement of ulceration, rinsing with hydro- rotoxicosis. The sudden onset of congestive
gen peroxide (H202), forced fluids, compose the heart failure, diaphoresis, fever, pulmonary
therapy of choice. edema, tachycardia may be precipitated by
stomatodynia Stomatalgia — oral pain. infection, surgical emergency, or trauma, et al.
stomatomalacia Pathology which includes the strabismus Heterotropia, squint — a congenital
softening of any oral structure. deviation of visual axes.
stomatomenia Oral hemorrhage during the accommodative strabismus Bilateral strabis-
menses. mus caused by disordered ocular focusing.
stomatomycosis Any fungal condition within the alternating strabismus That which affects each
mouth. eye separately.
stomatonecrosis Gangrenous stomatitis, can- concomitant strabismus The eyes focus freely
crum oris, stomatonoma — gangrenous ulcera- and independently, but not in convergence with
tion of the mouth. each other.
stomatoplasty Plastic surgery of any oral struc- constant strabismus This will become a perma-
tures. nent condition, if untreated.
stomatorrhagia Hemorrhage of the mouth. convergent strabismus The deviating eye turns
stomatosis Any oral pathology. inward.
stomocephalus Those fetal anomalies of minia- divergent strabismus The deviating eye turns
turized head and neck structures. outward.
stone heart Calcified myocardial tissue noted in horizontal strabismus The deviation is on an
the postmortem examination, and attibuted to even plane.
terror leading to death. intermittent strabismus That which occurs
stools Excreta,feces. periodically.
bilious stools Diarrhea with a yellow liquid. monocular strabismus Monolateral strabismus
fatty stools Seen in pancreatic carcinoma/cal- — the deviating eye is always the same.
culi, obstructive jaundice, overfed infants. nonconcomitant strabismus The deviation
386
varies proportionately to eye movement. acute/chronic stress from severe burns, cerebral
paralytic strabismus That caused by paresis of trauma, overwhelming sepsis, surgery, et al.
an ocular muscle. A cerebral/systemic disease stretcher Agurney.
may be the cause. The prognosis is guarded. striated Streaked, striped.
spastic strabismus That caused by a constrict- stricture An acquired or congenital
ed ocular muscle. narrowing/constriction of any lumen — which
unilateral strabismus Monocular strabismus may be temporary or permanent.
— the same eye deviates. annular stricture A ring which encircles the
vertical strabismus Diplopia follows ametropia entire organ.
in childhood, or central nervous system (CNS) anorectal stricture Fibrotic narrowing of the
pathology in the adult. Brown's strabismus — anal canal.
the inability to look up. bridle stricture A membranous, partially occlu-
strabismus deorsum vergens Hypotropia — ver- sive band.
tical squint in which the eye deviates caudally. cicatricial stricture A constricting scar.
strabismus sursum vergens Hypertropia — ver- functional stricture That which is spasmodic,
tical squint in which the eye deviates cephalad. caused by muscular spasms.
strabotomy The surgical repair of strabismus impermeable stricture That lumen which can-
(using a strabotome). not be penetrated.
strangulation Potentially lethal constriction. The stricturotome A surgical instrument which
crucial intervention is that of releasing/cutting ligates constrictures.
the source of constriction STAT! stricturotomy The surgical procedure in which
strangury Dysuria caused by spasmodic muscu- urethral strictures arereleased.
lar contractions of the urethra/bladder. stridor Stridulous "crowing" respirations due to
stratified Layered. a partially obstructed airway.
strephosymbolia Dyslectic confusion with simi- congenital laryngeal stridor That present at
lar letters. Reversed,mirrored perceptions. birth.
strepticemia Streptococcemia — septicemia stridor dentium The grinding sound produced by
caused by streptococci. Streptosepticemia, bruxism.
streptomycosis. stridor serraticus A sawing noise emitted by the
streptoangina A severe pharyngitis with strepto- tracheotomy tube during respirations.
coccal membranous formation. "Strept throat". strike-through That contamination by body fluids
stress Disruption of balance/equilibrium — which leaks through the isolation/operating
physically, psychiatrically, organically, mentally, room gown.
structurally, systemically. Some stress is string-of-pearls deformity That fusiform enlarge-
required to maintain well-being. This becomes ment of phalanges noted in rickets.
pathological when the patient can no longer string sign The constricted ileus of regional
cope. enteritis as seen on X-ray of the abdomen.
stress fracture The hairline fracture in the stroke Cerebral thrombosis, apoplexy,cerebral
absence of soft tissue injury. These fractures are vascular accident (CVA). Of acute onset — often
difficult to diagnose, and may be missed. with sterterous respirations, and/or uncon-
stressor That which contributes to disruption of sciousness, hemiparesis, aphasia. Following
well-being. acute care, rehabilitation may be extensive and
stress test An electrocardiogram (EKG, ECG) complicated by depressive mood and cerebral
with the patient undergoing physical exertion. changes.
The oxygen consumption may be calculated. A stroke volume Systolic discharge.
physician is present to terminate the test should stroking Muscular response elicited by the tactile
there be any indication of an abnormal cardiac stimulation of neurophysiological rehabilitation.
response. Stromeyer's splint That which is hinged to allow
stress ulcer That peptic ulcer caused by angulation over a joint.
387
stromuhr Rheometer — an instrument which legs, impaired vision. Patients survive with neu-
calculates the speed of flowing blood. rological disabilities.
strophocephaly That developmental anomaly of a subacute sclerosingpanencephalitis (SSPE)
distorted face and head. Panencephalitis — This degenerative cerebral
struma Goiter. disease manifests itself in the child's failure to
Riedel's struma Atrophic, chronic, fibrotic thy- progress in the classroom. Emotional instability,
roiditis. generalized myoclonic contractions, and/or per-
struma congenita That goiter present at birth. sonality changes may appear. Generalized rigidi-
struma lymphomatosa Hashimoto's struma — a ty and dementia are seen in the late stages.
rare, extensive and diffuse infiltration of the There is no therapy for this fatal disease.
entire thyroid. subalimentation Inadequate nourishment.
struma maligna Thyroid carcinoma. subanconeus Inferior to the elbow.
strumitis Thyroiditis — inflammation of a goiter. subarachnoid That between the arachnoid mem-
strumous Scrofulous — that affected with goi- brane and the pia mater.
ter/scrofula (tubercular adenitis). subarachnoid hemorrhage Often fatal, these
Striimpell-Marie disease Rheumatoid/ankylos- younger victims may appear to have stroked.
ing spondylitis. subaural Beneath the ear.
Striimpell's sign When the thigh is flexed on the subception Subliminal perception. The subcon-
abdomen, dorsiflexion of that foot occurs. scious.
strychnism Strychnine toxicity, which may pro- subchondral Beneath cartilage.
ceed to emprosthotonos (spastic flexion of the subclavian Subclavicular — beneath the collar-
spine), respiratory arrest. bone(s).
Stryker frame That turning frame, capable of subclavian steal syndrome Occlusion of the
rotating 180°, which becomes the bed for a crit- subclavian artery — which results in shunting
ical burn/spinal patient. blood away from the cerebral circulation. The
stupefacient Narcotic, soporific — that which transient symptoms are aggravated by exercise,
causes stupor. with a marked difference in blood pressure
Sturge-Weber syndrome Nevoid amentia — the between the arms.
congenital distribution of neurological anomalies subclinical That which presents without symp-
which includes glaucoma, epilepsy, mental toms. The subclinical period is that prior to
retardation, et al. symptomatology of the illness.
stuttering Anarthria literalis — spasmodic repeti- subconjunctival hemorrhage Bleeding which
tion of opening syllables. This impediment is may occur spontaneously or following severe
aggravated by anxiety/stress. Speechtherapy is coughing/vomiting. Serious in appearance, this
essential for the patient's comfort and self- is harmless and only rarely signals a significant
worth. These people are often able to problem.
sing/rhyme without stuttering. subcontinuous Almost constant.
stylus Probe. subcostal Beneath the rib(s).
styptic Astringent — that substance which subcutaneous (sub Q) Hypodermic (h).
chemically halts minor bleeding. subcutaneous surgery That performed through a
subacute That status which combines acute and small opening in the skin.
chronic features. subcuticular Subepidermal.
subacute care A transitional facility/unit which subdiaphragmatic Subphrenic.
rehabilitates the patient upon discharge from the subdural space That between the dura mater and
hospital, to return home. the arachnoid membrane.
subacute myelo-optic neuropathy (SMON) That suberosis The occupational hazard of pulmonary
neurological disease which appears with diar- hypersensitivity to cork.
rhea/abdominal pain followed by ataxia, coma, subfebrile An elevated temperature, no higher
convulsions, motor/sensory abnormalities in the than101°F.
388
subglossal Sublingual, hypoglossal — beneath subpelviperitoneal Inferior to the pelvic peri-
the tongue — a rapid means of absorption. toneum.
subglossitis Inflammation of those tissues subperitoneoabdominal Beneath the peri-
beneath the tongue. toneum.
subicterus Mild jaundice. subphrenic Subdiaphragmatic, inferior to the
subinflammation An irritation. diaphragm.
subintrant Proleptic — paroxysms which over-
subpoena An order of the Court, compelling the
lap. designated recipient to appear. Failure to do so
subinvolution An incomplete return to the pre- is cited as being in contempt of Court.
morbid state. subpyramidal Beneath the kidney.
subjacent That which is beneath. subspinous Below/anterior to the spinal cord.
subject One undergoing scientific/medical inves- substance Organic matter, substantia.
tigation. A cadaver undergoing postmortem dis- gray substance The gray matter of the spinal
section. cord and brain. Cinerea.
subjective In referenceto oneself. pressor substance That by which the arterial
subjective sensation That feeling which only the blood pressure is elevated.
owner canappreciate. substance-induced mood disorder That in asso-
subjective symptoms Those which cannot be ciation with intoxication/withdrawal states,
assessed by the examiner. symptomatology may occur within 4 weeks of
sublatio Detachment, elevation, excision of an the patient's last use of an illicit substance.
organ part. Antidepressants, L-dopa, steroids, stimulants,
sublatio retinae Detached retina(s). and somatic therapy may produce the paradoxi-
sublethal That which was not fatal. cal effect of hypomania.
sublethal dose A toxic dose which did not cause substandard That which fails to comply with the
death. minimal established criteria for quality.
substitution Replacement of a behavior, drug,
sublimation An unconscious ego defense, in substance, technique, et al., for another. That
which ego-dystonic drives are transformed into ego defense mechanism of replacing an unac-
ego-syntonic resources and coping. ceptable/obstructed gratification with more
socially acceptablebehavior.
subliminal Beneath the level of consciousness. subtotal Partial, less than all.
That stimulus which is too weak to be acknowl- subungual Subunguial — beneath the nail.
edged by the senses. subungual hematoma Traumatic hemorrhage
beneath a nail. Cauterization with a heated metal
sublingually Administered beneath the tongue tip through the nail above the hematoma is
for rapid absorption into the circulation. This painless, and affords immediate relief of the
route will be ordered specifically for medication exquisite pain. This will prevent the necrotic nail
produced in this form. which persists for months.
subvirile Deficient/absent masculinity.
subluxation A partial dislocation. Crepitation will subvitrinal That beneath the vitreous body of the
be noted, as in that of temporomandibular joint eye.
disorder (TMJD). Dental injury resulting in dis- subvolution The surgical technique of turning an
located (but not shelled) teeth. edge of the wound to prevent adhesion forma-
tion.
submandibularitis Mumps/inflammation involv- succagogue A stimulant of hormone production.
ing a salivary gland beneath the jaw. succussion Detection of fluid in a body cavity by
eliciting a splashing sound. This is achieved
submedian Submedial, central, beneath the cen- when the supine patient's trunk is shaken, in the
ter. presence of pathology.
submental Below the chin.
submerge To immerse in a liquid.
submucous resection Excision of submucosal
and cartilaginous tissues in nasal surgery.
subnormal Deficient, less than average.
suboptimal Lower than that which is ideal.
389
suction Reduction of air/fluid contents by aspira- their worth.
tion.
post-tussive suction Chest sounds auscultated suggestion An idea offered to/received from
after coughing. another.
auto-suggestion Self-encouragement, which
suction biopsy A method of obtaining tissue sometimes occurs in a post-hypnotic state.
samples from the gastrointestinal mucosae. hypnotic suggestion That idea which has been
conveyed by the hypnotist. If followed after the
suction purpura Vacuum-induced extravasation hypnotic state, it becomes a post-hypnotic sug-
into the epidermis. gestion.
sudatoria Hyperhidrosis, ephidrosis — excessive suggestive therapeutics The treatment of pathol-
perspiration. ogy through hypnosis.
sudden death That occurring without terminal suicidality The increasing prevalence of self-
signs/symptoms. If within 24 hours of admis- inflicted deaths and their impact. The outpatient
sion, on the operating table, or in the emer- needs psychotherapy, drug treatment of depres-
gency room, this may be a coroner's case. A sion, and a crisis number. A therapeutic ques-
major asymptomatic cause is hypertrophic car- tion is, "If you decide to end your life, will you
diomyopathy (which can be detected only on call me first?" If s/he refuses to answer direct
echocardiography). Other causes include questions about the lethality of his/her plan and
Adams-Stokes syndrome, dissecting aortic state of mind, this person should be considered
aneurysm, drug idiosyncrasy/toxicity, electrolyte to be suicidal. If the client is in a state of agitat-
imbalance, myocarditis, pulmonary embolism, ed depression, has a lethal plan, appears to be
et al. Necropsy often reveals a structural cardiac dangerous to him-/herself or others, and/or psy-
defect which eluded examinations lifelong. chotic features are noted, hospitalization on a
closed (locked) psychiatric unit becomes
sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) "Crib mandatory. The resistant client need to be
death" — the unpredictable demise of a well Court-ordered, and transported by peace offi-
baby at sleep. Infants at risk for cers. On the unit, constant observation is
cardiovascular/respiratory compromise may required, as hospitalized patients may become
have monitors prescribed for home use. worse before they improve. (Patients have sui-
Acoustic cry variables have been associated cided on psychiatric units) Restraints may be
with this syndrome, in research. Since the inci- necessary to protect the patient until medication
dence of these tragic deaths is lower in takes hold. Some recovering depressives bright-
European infants (who sleep supine), than in en because they have perfected their suicidal
American infants (who sleep prone), the plans. If they are committed to their demise,
American Academy of Pediatrics has advised they will succeed.
that healthy, term babies sleep on their backs.
Already, there has been a documenteddecrease sulfuric acid (H2S04) poisoning Locally, burning
in these deaths! will occur. Ophthalmic involvement may result
in blindness. Orally, major trauma to the
Sudeck's atrophy/disease Traumatic osteoporo- esophageal/gastric/oral/pharyngeal mucosae
sis. A marked loss of bone tissue is noted at the causes extreme pain, edema, salivation, gasp-
site of injury. ing, protracted vomiting, and profound shock.
Gastric lavage may be contraindicated.
sudoresis Diaphoresis.
sudorific Diaphoretic. Sunday morning paralysis Saturday night paral-
suffocation Asphyxiation — death by airway ysis — a radial nerve palsy caused by
pressure/immobility as the alcoholic slept on the
obstruction. This may occur by mechanical, sidewalk in stupor. Treatment of this acute
submersive, biological, toxic, or other means — ethanol toxicity yields prompt restoration of
accidental or intentional. innervation.
suffusion Extravasation — infusion of fluid into
adjacent tissues. sunstroke Heliosis — an acute reaction to heat,
suggestibility Susceptibility to the ideas of oth-
ers. Accepting suggestions without considering
390
manifested by fever > 105° F,absent perspira- supplemental Additional.
tion, blood pressure elevation, confusion, con- support Reinforcement.
vulsions, delirium, fluid imbalance, headache, emotional support Encouragement of another's
numbness, paresthesia, renal failure, and/or feelings, using empathic identification.
tachycardia. Immediate and extreme measures suppository That form of medication prepared
must be taken to reduce the fever. specifically for rectal or vaginal administration,
superalimentation Hyperalimentation. and ordered by that route.
supercilia Eyebrows. suppression Unconscious sublimation of an act,
supercilium The eyebrow. impulse, speech,thought. Failed
superego One's personality, embracing his/her secretion/excretion.
personal ethic, moral standards, self-criticism. suppurative fever Pyemia, septicemia — inva-
From these attributes evolves the conscience. sion of the circulation by pus.
superfecundation Super-impregnation — fertiliza- suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SCH) Extrusion of
tion which produces multiple births from the intraocular contents. In surgery, this extreme
pregnancy which results from ova repeatedly hemorrhage may be heralded by profound pain.
impregnated. Postoperatively, excruciating pain accompanied
superfemale One possessing 3 "X" chromo- by reduced vision signals an impending supra-
somes. choroidal hemorrhage. When feasible, anticoag-
superficial Cursory. ulants should be discontinued. Lower the blood
superficial reflex That elicited by light stimulus. pressure of hypertensive patients, and control
supergenual Above the knee(s). tachycardia. Intraoperatively, avoiding general
superinfection Comorbidity of overwhelming, anesthesia will reduce the Valsalva risk. The
resistant sepsis/sepses. placement of safety sutures is mandatory.
superiority complex That which compensates for supracostal That above the ribcage, superior to
one's inferiority complex. the ribs.
superior vena cava syndrome Obstruction (usu- supracotyloid Superior to the acetabulum of the
ally due to malignancy) of this major trunk, hip.
leading to death. Benign etiology includes aortic suprainguinal That above the groin.
aneurysm, goiter, mediastinal fibrosis, paralyzed supraliminal Above the consciousness/stimulus
vocal cords. Anhidrosis, dyspnea, Homer's syn- threshold.
drome, neck tightness, neck vein distention, supramarginal Superior to the border.
periorbital edema, and/or a reddened, edema- supramental That above the chin.
tous face may be noted. supraorbital neuralgia Hemicrania.
superjacent That which is immediately above. suprapubic Superior to the pubic arch.
superlethal That in excess of the amount/condi- suprapubic aspiration of urine To lessen the
tion which would be expectedto cause death. chance of contaminating the bladder with bacte-
supermotility Hyperkinesia, hyperkinesis, move- ria during catheterization, the physician may
ment to excess. aspirate urine suprapubically, using a syringe
superovulation Excessive ovulation caused by and long needle.This procedure carries the risk
gonadotropin therapy. of puncturing adjacent bowel.
supersonic Ultrasonic. Speed in excess of sound suprapubic catheter That sutured through a
(which cannot be heard). pelvic, abdominal incision into the bladder. The
supervenosity Pathologically reducedoxygen patient needs to be observed for signs of infec-
content in the venous circulation. tion, both local and systemic. Unless contraindi-
supervention Comorbidity. cated, force fluids, maintain intake/output
supination The rotation of an extremity. Turning records.
the patient (pt) onto his/her back. suprarenal That which is superior to the kidney.
supine That position in which the patient lies on suprarenalectomy Adrenalectomy.
his/her back. suprarenal gland(s) The adrenal gland(s).
391
suprarenalopathy Any disorder affecting adrenal surrogate A substitute, replacement for another.
functioning. surrogate mother One who carries another's
suprasternal Episternal. fetus in utero. Upon delivery, she relinquishes it
supravergence Failure of the eyes to track to the genetic mother. Some of these cases end
together in an upward gaze. up in Court.
supraversion That which is turned upward. sursumduction Elevation.
suralimentation Superalimentation, hyperalimen- surveillance Close guarding of one in need of
tation. diligent monitoring.
surditas Deafness, surdity. survey meter An instrument which indicates the
surdomute One who can neither hear nor speak level of radioactive contamination a patient may
functionally, suffering from deafmutism. have received. A risk to themselves and others,
surface The exterior covering/layer. positive patients will have to go into isolation. If
surfactant A cohesive base which lowers surface the hospital does not have this monitor, it may
tension. be obtained from the police.
pulmonary surfactant That agent which con- survivor guilt That ruminative, depressive affect
trols the tension of air/liquid emulsion within the which may obsess a victim who survived a
lungs. This is crucial in the survival of extremely tragedy in which another perished. Psychiatric
premature neonates. referral becomes the modality of choice.
surgery Chirurgery, chirurgia. Those operations susceptibility The state of having little resis-
which correct abnormalities, injuries, pathology. tance, of being easily influenced.
conservative surgery That which retains as suspension That held inert or in flotation.
much tissue as prudent — as in segmental cephalic suspension Cervical traction.
mastectomy (breast-conserving resection). tendon suspension Tenodesis.
cosmetic surgery An elective procedure which sustenacular That which upholds, supports.
restores/revises epidermal imperfections. Sutton's disease Granuloma fissuratum.
elective surgery An operation which is not suturing Union achieved by gut, silk, wire, or
urgent, and may be scheduled at the surgeon's, other suture material.
patient's, and hospital's convenience. swallowing Deglutition — which may be both
major surgery That which places the patient at voluntary and reflexive.
greater risk, violating (entering) the abdominal, swallowing air Aerophagia — taking air into the
cranial, or thoracic cavity. stomach while chewing gum, eating, drinking,
maxillofacial surgery Dental/oral/facial bone smoking. The hysterical patient may habitually
procedures. swallow air without being aware of this.
minor surgery Those operations which do not Swan-Ganz catheter A critical coronary proce-
enter a major cavity. Many can be performed as dure, using a flexible catheter which incorpo-
ambulatory surgery, day surgery, come and go rates a balloon. This floating (within the circula-
cases, et al. tion) catheter tip may therapeutically release
oblative surgery That which destroys an organ obstructing thrombi.
and/or tissues such as mutilative procedures, swan neck deformity An arthritic contracture of
amputation, enucleation, et al. the hand.
orthopedic surgery An operation on bone, Sweet's syndrome That extremely rare condition
joint, and/or muscle. of unknown etiology, characterized by haloed,
plastic surgery Precise revision of facial, graft- dermal infiltration, fever, leukocytosis, plaques,
ing, and other exacting procedures. A number of bullous lesions, dyspnea, pancytopenia.
these operations may be in stages. Often minia- Behget's syndrome must be ruled out.
ture ("mosquito") instruments are used. The Swift's disease Acrodynia.
surgeon may own and bring these. (They may sycophant One who insincerely praises an influ-
not be autoclaved without the MD's directive, ential person, employer, et al.
since some may need to be gas-sterilized.) Sydenham's chorea A pediatric disorder sec-
392
ondary to streptococcal infection. Anxiety, this with meticulous technique which includes
bizarre movements, impaired speech/memory medicating the eyes from separate eye trays and
may be noted. medications (all of which are labeled according-
sylvatic plague Bubonic plague. ly), washing hands between eyes. Another tech-
symbiosis Similar to codependency, a depen- nique is that of a second nurse treating the sec-
dent, reinforcing alliance which supports both ond eye with its eye tray.
persons. An unhealthy symbiosis may reinforce sympathicoparalytic The patient with paresis
psychopathology. originating from the sympathetic nervous sys-
symblepharon A traumatic adhesion between the tem.
eye and its eyelid. This may also be noted sec- sympathicotonia Sympatheticotonia — that
ondary to chemical burns, surgery, and in increased tone of the autonomic nervous sys-
phemphigus or trachoma. tem leading to hypertension and vascular
symbrachydactyly The webbing of shortened fin- spasm.
gers. sympathism Suggestibility, vulnerability.
Syme's operation Amputation of the foot at the sympathoma A tumor comprised of sympathetic
ankle. External urethrotomy. Glossal amputation. tissue.
symmelia Fusion of the extremities. sympathomimetic Sympathicomimetic, adrener-
symmetromania The abnormal use of unneces- gic.
sary bilateral movements for unilateral needs. sympathy Feeling the same emotions as another.
symmetry Aesthetic balance. symphalangism Symphysodactyly, syndactylism
bilateral symmetry Balanced organs on both — webbing of the digits.
sides of the central axis of the body. symphyseotomy Hebosteotomy, pelvioplasty,
radial symmetry That balance of extremities hebotomy, pubiotomy, symphysiectomy, sym-
radiating from the center. physiotomy, symphysectomy, synchondrotomy.
sympathectomy Sympathicectomy — excision of Excision/sectioning of the symphysis pubis to
sympathetic ganglia, nerves, and/or plexuses. facilitate the delivery of an impacted infant.
chemical sympathectomy Medical, subtotal sympodia Sympus — fusion of the legs — a
inactivation/destruction of the sympathetic ner- congenital anomaly.
vous system. symptom A pathological sign(s). From impercep-
periarterial sympathectomy Removal of the tible to terminal, these may arise in any body
sympathetic arterial sheathes in the treatment of system. In assessing the symptomatic
trophic disorders. risk/change status, the nurse should heed
sympatheoneuritis Neural inflammation of the his/her "gut instinct" — especially with psychi-
automatic nervous system. atric and pediatric patients.
sympathetic Sympathic, empathetic, empathic, accessory symptom A minor sign.
supportive. cardinal symptom The major, principal sign of
sympatheticalgia Painful cervical autonomic the diagnosis.
ganglion/ganglia. concomitant symptom A lesser symptom
sympathetic nervous system Those neurological occurring with the cardinal symptom.
ganglia, nerves, plexuses which innervate the constitutional symptoms Generalized, systemic
involuntary motor/sensory receptors. The auto- indications of illness.
nomic nervous system's response to an emer- equivocal symptom That occurring in many ill-
gency, fear, rejection, threatening situation, is nesses.
"Fight or flight." labyrinthine symptom An indication of inner
sympatheticopathy Disorders arising from the ear pathology.
sympathetic nervous system. negative pathognomonic symptom That which
sympathetic ophthalmia The infectious contami- rules out the presence of a disease/condition.
nation of one eye by the other. This places the pathognomonic symptom That specifically
patient at high risk for blindness. Guard against diagnostic of the disease/disorder.
393
presenting symptom The chief complaint (CC) synclonus The disease characterized by muscle
spasms.
which motivated the patient to seek medical
care. synclonus ballismus Paralysis agitans,
prodromal symptoms Those which serve as a Parkinson's disease.
prelude to illness.
rational symptom That subjective complaint synclonus tremens Generalized tremors.
which only the patient can perceive. syncope Transient loss of consciousness due to
signal symptom That which warns of an
impending attack. inadequate circulation to the brain. This may be
static symptom A passive sign. caused by altered blood chemistry, cardiac
withdrawal symptoms Those experienced by arrhythmias/standstill, cerebrovascular accident
persons dependent on an illicit or (abused) pre- (CVA), peripheral circulatory failure, et al.
scription drug, following the abrupt halt of this cardiac syncope That originating in Adams-
agent. Stokes syndrome, aortic stenosis, bradycardia,
myocardial infarction, tachycardia.
symptomatology Semeilogy — The science of carotid sinus syncope That caused by a hyper-
signs, symptoms (sx), and indications. sensitive/pressured carotid sinus.
cough syncope That elicited in some persons
symptomolytic Symptomatolytic — that which who cough to the point of gagging.
causes the signs and symptoms to cease. defecation syncope Caused by the first bowel
movement post-hemorrhoidectomy, for some
symptosis Emaciation. patients.
synache Obstructive pharyngitis. hysterical syncope That seen in unstable, anx-
synactosis That congenital anomaly which ious patients who are prone to fainting.
laryngeal syncope Laryngeal vertigo — faint-
results in the fusion of body parts. ing briefly in response to pharyngeal irritation.
synalgia Referred/reflexivepain distant to the local syncope The blanching/numbness of a
body part with compromised circulation, local
original site of pathology. asphyxia, Raynaud's syndrome/disease.
synarthrosis Synarthrodia, an absent joint cavity micturition syncope Experiencedby some men
who arise from sleep with a full bladder, to void.
in which mobility is limited/absent. vasovagalsyncope Caused by
syncanthus Adhesion of the ophthalmic globe to bradycardia/hypotension, this may be exacerbat-
ed by the prolonged bedrest patient assuming
the orbit. upright positioning, under emotional stress,
syncephalus That fetal deformity in which there fear, significant blood loss.
syncope anginosa Fainting accompanied by
are 4 ears. chest pain.
synchilia Atresia of the mouth. Congenital adhe- syndactylism Congenital fusion/webbing/adhe-
sion of the digits.
sion of the lips. syndelphus That rare anomaly in which the fetus
synchiria That disordered sensation in which has 8 extremities.
syndesis The congenital surgical ankylosis/fixa-
unilateral stimuli are perceived bilaterally. tion of a joint.
synchondroseotomy Surgical revision/repair of syndesmectomy That partial excision of a liga-
ment.
congenital exstrophy. syndesmectopia An abnormally positioned liga-
synchorial Multiple fetuses sharing one placenta. ment.
synchronous Simultaneous events. syndesmitis Conjunctival inflammation. An
synchysis scintillans That optical sensation of inflamed ligament.
syndesmoma A neoplasm of connective tissue.
light flashes caused by fatty substances/choles-
terol crystals in the vitreous body.
syncinesis Synkinesis — the association of vol-
untary and involuntary movements.
imitative syncinesis Efforts of a paralyzed side
to achieve movement, produces a contralateral
involuntary motion.
spasmodic syncinesis That involuntary move-
ment experienced on the paralyzed side, accom-
panying a contralateral voluntary movement.