Dictionary

overload, iron See excess iron.

overgrowth syndrome A condition with multiple features, most notably excessive growth. A number of overgrowth syndromes affect children, such as fragile X syndrome. Excessive growth of specific body parts is also a feature of a number of disorders, such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, in which there is macroglossia (a large tongue due to overgrowth of the…

overgrowth Excessive growth. Also sometimes called gigantism.

ovary cyst, follicular See cyst of the ovary, follicular.

ovary, dermoid cyst of the See ovarian teratoma.

ovary The female gonad, one of a pair of reproductive glands in women. The ovaries are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries produce eggs (ova) and female hormones. During each monthly menstrual cycle, an egg is released…

ovarian teratoma An ovarian tumor that is usually benign and typically contains a diversity of tissues. An ovarian teratoma develops from a totipotential germ cell—a primary oocyte—that is retained within the ovary. Totipotential cells can give rise to all orders of cells that are necessary to form mature tissues and often recognizable structures, such as…

ovarian disease, polycystic See SteinLeventhal syndrome.

ovarian carcinoma See cancer, ovarian.

ova Plural of ovum.

outpatient A patient who is not hospitalized, but instead comes to a physician’s office, clinic, or day surgery office for treatment.

ounce 1 A measure of weight equal to 28.4 grams or 1⁄16 pound. Abbreviated oz. 2 A measure of volume equal to 5 milliliters, 2 tablespoons, or 1⁄8 cups.