Dictionary

epidemiologist A person engaged in epidemiology. Epidemiologists can be people with MD, PhD, DPH (Doctor of Public Health), MPH (Master of Public Health), RN, or other degrees.

epidemiology, classical The study of populations in order to determine the frequency and distribution of diseases, and then to measure the risks of those diseases.

epidemiology, clinical Epidemiology focused specifically on patients with diseases of clinical importance.

epidermis The upper, or outer, layer of the two main layers of cells in the skin (the other being the dermis). The epidermis is mostly made up of flat, scale-like cells called squamous cells. Under the squamous cells are round cells called basal cells. The deepest part of the epidermis also contains melanocytes, cells that…

epidermoid carcinoma See carcinoma, squamous cell.

enteritis, regional See Crohn’s disease.

entero- Prefix referring to the intestine, as in enteropathy (a disease of the intestine) and enterospasm (a painful, intense contraction of the intestine).

enterobiasis See pinworm infestation.

enterocele A vaginal hernia. Protrusion of the small intestine into the upper wall of the vagina.

enterocentesis The use of a hollow needle inserted through the wall of the stomach or intestine to relieve pressure from gas or fluid buildup.

enterococcus Bacteria normally found in the feces. Two types, Enterococcus fecalis and Enterococcus fecium, cause human disease, most commonly in the form of urinary tract and wound infections. Other infections, including those of the blood stream (bacteremia), heart valves (endocarditis), and the brain (meningitis) can occur in severely ill patients in hospitals. Enterococci also often…

enterocolitis, Crohn’s See Crohn’s enterocolitis.