Dictionary

pharmacopeia An official authoritative listing of medications. Some countries, such as the UK, establish official pharmacopeias, as do some medical groups and health maintenance organizations (HMOs).

pharmacy A location where prescription medications are sold. A pharmacy is constantly supervised by a licensed pharmacist.

pharmacy, compounding A place that both makes and sells prescription medications. A compounding pharmacy can often concoct drug formulas that are specially tailored to patients (for example, liquid versions of medications that are normally available only in pill form for patients who cannot swallow pills).

pharyngeal Having to do with the pharynx (throat).

pharyngitis Inflammation of the pharynx. Pharyngitis is a common cause of sore throat.

pharynx The hollow tube that is about 5 inches long and starts behind the nose and ends at the top of the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus. The pharynx serves as a vestibule or entryway for the trachea and esophagus.

phase, resting See interphase.

PhD Doctor of Philosophy. PhDs are involved in clinical care, biomedical research, health administration, teaching, and other areas of medicine.

Phe Phenylalanine.

phenocopy 1 An environmental condition that imitates a condition that is produced by a gene. 2 A person who has an environmental condition that mimics a condition that is produced by a gene.

phenomenon, Babinski See Babinski reflex.

pervasive developmental disorder Abreviated PDD, one of a group of disorders characterized by delays in the development of multiple basic functions including socialization and communication. Parents may note symptoms as early as infancy and typically onset is prior to 3 years of age. Symptoms may include communication problems such as using and understanding language; difficulty…