Dictionary

fungus A plantlike organism that does not contain chlorophyll and feeds on organic matter. An example of a common fungus is the yeast organism that causes thrush and diaper rash (diaper dermatitis).

fungiform papillae Broad, flat structures that house taste buds in the central portion of the dorsum (back) of the tongue. Fungiform papillae were once thought to resemble little mushrooms.

fungiform Mushroom-shaped.

fungal nail infection See onychomycosis.

fundus In medicine, the bottom or base of an organ. For example, the fundus of the eye is the retina. However, the fundus of the stomach is inexplicably the upper portion. From the Latin for “the bottom.”

fundoplication A surgical treatment for GERD. Usually a specific type of this procedure, called Nissen fundoplication, is performed, in which the upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophageal sphincter to strengthen this structure, prevent acid reflux, and repair a hiatal hernia. The procedure may be performed by laparoscopy. See also gastroesophageal…

functional gene test A test for a specific protein which indicates not only that the corresponding gene is present but also that it is active.

functional food See food, functional.

fugue state An altered state of consciousness in which a person may move about purposely and even speak but is not fully aware. A fugue state is usually a type of complex partial seizure. See also seizure, complex partial.

fucosidosis An inherited lysosomal storage disease characterized by lack of the enzyme fucosidase. Without fucosidase, there is accumulation of fucose in the tissues. Fucosidosis is an autosomal recessive disorder. The gene that is responsible for fucosidosis, FUCA1, is on chromosome 1. Fucosidosis in its most severe form can cause neurologic deterioration, growth retardation, visceromegaly (enlargement…

FTT Failure to thrive.

ft. Abbreviation for foot, a measure of length.