glucose tolerance test A test of carbohydrate metabolism that is used primarily in the diagnosis of type II diabetes and gestational diabetes. Abbreviated GTT. After the patient has fasted overnight, but before breakfast, a specific amount of glucose is given by mouth, and the blood levels of this sugar are measured every 30–60 minutes. The…
glucose, fasting blood See fasting blood glucose.
glucose The simple sugar that is the chief source of energy. Glucose is found in the blood and is the main sugar that the body manufactures. The body makes glucose from all three elements of food— protein, fats, and carbohydrates—but the largest amount of glucose derives from carbohydrates. Glucose serves as the major source of…
glucosamine A molecule derived from the sugar glucose by the addition of an amino group. Glucosamine is a component of a number of structures, including the blood group substances and cartilage. Glucosamine is currently in use as a nutritional supplement (often in combination with chondroitin) and is touted as a remedy for arthritic symptoms.
glucometer A portable device used to check blood glucose concentrations. After pricking the skin with a lancet, a drop of blood is placed on a test strip in the glucometer. The meter analyzes the blood glucose concentration and displays the result on the meter’s digital display. See also glucose.
glucocorticoid See corticosteroid.
glucocerebrosidase deficiency An enzyme deficiency that causes Gaucher disease. See also Gaucher disease.
glottis The middle part of the larynx, where the vocal cords are located.
glossopharyngeal nerve The ninth cranial nerve, which supplies the tongue, throat, and one of the salivary glands (the parotid gland). Problems with the glossopharyngeal nerve result in difficulties with tasting and swallowing.
glossolalia 1 A condition in which a person makes nonsensical sounds that mimic the rhythms and inflections of actual speech. Glossolalia may be seen in deep sleep or in trance states. 2 The scientific term for the religious phenomenon known as “speaking in tongues.”
glossitis Inflammation of the tongue. There are many possible causes of glossitis, including vitamin B12 deficiency, Sjogren’s syndrome, and side effects of medications or chemotherapy.
globus pallidus A comparatively pale-looking, spherical area in the brain. The globus pallidus is specifically part of the lentiform nucleus, which in turn is part of the striate body, a component of the basal ganglia. Also called pale globe, palladum, and paleostriatum.