epithelium

epithelium The cellular layer that covers internal and external organs of the body, including the skin, blood vessels, body cavities, and glands. Epithelium varies in the number of cellular layers and types of cells, depending upon the anatomic location. The endothelium is a type of epithelium that lines the inner surfaces of the blood vessels…

epispadias

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.

episiotomy

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…

episcleritis

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.