Dictionary

palsy Paralysis, generally partial, whereby a local body area is incapable of voluntary movement. For example, Bell’s palsy is localized paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face.

palpitations Unpleasant sensations of irregular and/or forceful beating of the heart. In some patients with palpitations, no heart disease or abnormal heart rhythms can be found. In others, palpitations result from abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

palpebral gland See gland, Meibomian.

palpebral fissure The opening for the eyes between the eyelids.

palpebra Medical term for eyelid. The plural is palpebrae.

palpate To touch or feel. For example, a physician may palpate the liver’s edge when examining the abdomen.

palpable Something that can be felt. For example, a palpable growth is one that can be detected by touch.

palmar surface The palm or grasping side of the hand.

palliative care 1 Medical or comfort care that reduces the severity of a disease or slows its progress rather than providing a cure. For incurable diseases, in cases where the cure is not recommended due to other health concerns, and when the patient does not want to pursue a cure, palliative care is the focus…

palliation See palliative care.

palliate To treat a disease partially and insofar as possible, but not cure it completely. See also palliative care.

palladum See globus pallidus.