Dictionary

scoliosis, acquired Lateral (sideways) curving of the spine that is neither present at birth nor results from a condition that is present at birth.

scoliosis, congenital Lateral (sideways) curving of the spine that is present at birth or is due to a condition that is present at birth. The condition may, for example, be a neuromuscular abnormality or be due to a malformation of the vertebral column.

scoliosis, functional Lateral (sideways) curving in a structurally normal spine. For example, functional scoliosis can be caused by pain on one side of the back that results in splinting. Also known as nonstructural scoliosis. See also scoliosis, structural.

scoliosis, idiopathic Lateral (sideways) curving of the spine whose cause is unknown.

scoliosis, structural A fixed lateral (sideways) curve of the spine. The causes of structural scoliosis include cerebral palsy, polio, muscular dystrophy, Marfan syndrome, infections of the spine, and tumors of the spine. Structural scoliosis is different from functional scoliosis, in which the spine appears to have a lateral curve (scoliosis) but is structurally normal.

scrape An abrasion or cut that is caused by something rubbing roughly against the skin. Redness, swelling, increased pain, and pus indicate infection that requires professional care.

scratch test for allergy See allergy skin test.

scrofula Tuberculosis of the lymph nodes in the neck. Also known in the past as the King’s evil. See also tuberculosis.

scrotum The pouch of skin that contains the testes, epididymides, and lower portions of the spermatic cords.

scurvy A disorder that is caused by lack of vitamin C. Symptoms include anemia; soft, bleeding gums; and bumps under the skin near muscles. Scurvy in early childhood can cause musculoskeletal problems. Treatment involves including foods that are high in vitamin C in the diet and taking vitamin C supplements if necessary.

seasonal affective disorder Depression that tends to occur (and recur) during a particular time of year, most often as the days grow shorter in the fall and winter. Abbreviated SAD. Affected persons may react adversely to decreasing amounts of light or colder temperatures, which affect the production of neurotransmitters in the brain. Also known as…

seborrhea See dandruff.