Dictionary

phosphate A form of phosphoric acid that may bind to other organic chemicals to form a variety of compounds. For example, calcium phosphate makes bones and teeth hard. See also phosphorylation.

phosphorus An essential element in the diet and a major component of bone.

phosphorylation A biochemical process that involves the addition of phosphate to an organic compound. Examples include the addition of phosphate to glucose to produce glucose monophosphate and the addition of phosphate to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to form adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Phosphorylation is carried out through the action of enzymes known as phosphotransferases or kinases.

phalanx See phalanges.

phantom limb syndrome The perception of sensations, often including pain, in an arm or leg long after the limb has been amputated. Phantom limb syndrome is relatively common in amputees, especially in the early months and years after limb loss.

phantom sensation A phenomenon that involves any of the senses that mimic the presence of sensory abilities that are no longer available. Phantom sensations are probably caused by abnormal firing of nerve impulses, although the mechanism for these sensations is not understood. For example, people who have lost much of their vision often experience visual…

phantom tooth pain Persistent pain in an area from which a tooth has been extracted. Phantom tooth pain may last for months and can spread beyond the extraction site to other areas of the mouth.

phantom vision A phenomenon that involves seeing images after loss of eyesight.

pharmacist A professional who fills prescriptions and, in the case of a compounding pharmacist, makes them. Pharmacists are very familiar with medication ingredients, interactions, and cautions.

pharmacogenetics The convergence of pharmacology and genetics, which deals with genetically determined responses to drugs. Pharmacogenetics is also concerned with the differences in the metabolism of medications among children, adults, and senior citizens; men and women; and people with various medical conditions.

pharmacologist A specialist in the science of medications. A pharmacologist is usually especially knowledgeable about new and obscure medications that may be needed for hard-to-treat or rare illnesses and about drug interactions and how to prevent them. Pharmacologists usually act as consultants to primary care physicians or specialists.

pharmacology 1 The study of concocting and using medications. 2 The study of drugs, their sources, their nature, and their properties.