Dictionary

erythrocyte See red blood cell.

erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1 See elliptocytosis.

erythroleukemia A form of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) that involves the cells that give rise to the erythrocytes (red blood cells). In erythroleukemia, the body produces large numbers of abnormal, immature red blood cells.

erythromycin An antibiotic that is commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infection. Erythromycin prevents bacteria from producing proteins and interferes with bacterial growth and multiplication. See also macrolide antibiotic.

erythroplakia An abnormal reddened patch with a velvety surface that is found in the mouth. Erythroplakia carries an increased risk for becoming a cancer in the oral cavity. Treatment methods include observation, topical ointments, and surgical techniques including laser surgery.

epilepticus, status See status epilepticus.

epinephrine The official name for adrenaline in the British Pharmacopoeia. See also adrenaline.

epiphyseal plate fracture See fracture, SalterHarris.

epiphysis The growth area near the end of a bone.

episcleritis Inflammation of the episclera, a thin membrane that covers the white of the eye (sclera). Episcleritis is typically benign, easily treated with topical anti-inflammatory drops, and usually quickly resolved. Episcleritis can sometimes accompany other diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

episiotomy A surgical procedure for widening the outlet of the birth canal to facilitate delivery of the baby and to avoid a jagged rip of the area between the anus and the vulva (perineum). During an episiotomy, an incision is made between the vagina and the rectum. The usual cut goes straight down and does…

epispadias A congenital malformation in which the opening of the urethra is on the top side of the penis. Hypospadias is a corresponding malformation in which the opening of the urethra is on the underside of the penis. Surgical repair is usually recommended for epispadias. See also hypospadias.