Dictionary

DRD See dopa-responsive dystonia.

drain 1 A device for removing fluid from a cavity or wound, typically a tube or wick. 2 As a verb, to allow fluid to be released from a confined area.

DPT Diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine. Today the more frequent abbreviation is DTP, for diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine. See also DTP immunization.

downregulation Reduction in the number of receptors on the surface of target cells, making the cells less sensitive to a hormone or another agent.

Down syndrome A common birth defect that is usually due to an extra chromosome 21 (trisomy 21). Down syndrome causes mental retardation, a characteristic facial appearance, and multiple malformations. It occurs most frequently in children born to mothers over age 35. It is associated with a major risk for heart problems, a lesser risk of…

Dowager’s hump An abnormal outward curvature of the thoracic vertebrae of the upper back. Compression of the front portion of the involved vertebrae due to osteoporosis leads to forward bending of the spine (kyphosis) and creates a hump at the upper back. Like most osteoporotic changes, it is often preventable.

Douglas, pouch of See pouch of Douglas.

douching Using water or a medicated solution to clean the vagina and cervix or any other body cavity or part.

douche Usually, a stream of water applied into the vagina for cleansing purposes. A douche can use a solution, such as vinegar and water, rather than simple water, and it can be directed at any body cavity or part.

double-jointed Popular term to describe a joint that is unusually flexible. Medically, the joint is said to be hyperflexible, hyperextensible, or hypermobile. People whose fingers are hypermobile have higher rates of arthritis in the hands. Marked joint hypermobility is a feature of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. See also Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

double-blinded study A medical study in which both the subjects participating and the researchers are uaware of when the experimental medication or procedure has been given. Double-blinded studies are often used when initial studies shows particular promise.

double pneumonia See pneumonia, double.