Dictionary

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

follicle-stimulating hormone A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that controls estrogen production by the ovaries. Abbreviated FSH. See also gonadotropin.

follicle A shaft in the skin through which hair grows. Inflammation of the follicle is referred to as folliculitis.

Foley catheter See catheter, Foley.

folate See folic acid.

focused H and P A medical history (H) and physical examination (P) that focuses on the patient’s present problem. For example, if a patient is complaining of an earache, the physician concentrates on the ear rather than doing a complete clinical exam.

FMRP Familial mental retardation protein, the lack of which results in fragile X syndrome, the most common inherited cause of mental retardation. See also FMR1; fragile X syndrome.

FMR1 Familial mental retardation 1, the gene that is responsible for the production of the protein familial mental retardation protein (FMRP). See also fragile X syndrome.

FMO3 Flavin-containing monooxygenase-3, an enzyme that is encoded on chromosome 1 and normally metabolizes trimethylamine. See also fishodor syndrome.

FMF Familial Mediterranean fever.

fluvastin A cholesterol-lowering drug (brand name: Lescol) that is prescribed to prevent medical problems associated with high cholesterol levels, such as atherosclerosis and heart disease. Fluvastin is also used to treat inherited lipid disorders and similar disorders caused by liver or kidney disease.

flush 1 A redness of the skin, typically over the cheeks or neck. A flush is usually temporary and brought on by excitement, exercise, fever, or embarrassment. Flushing is an involuntary (uncontrollable) response of the nervous system that leads to widening of the capillaries of the involved skin. Also referred to as a blush (or,…