Dictionary

defect, enzyme See enzyme defect.

defect, atrial septal See atrial septal defect.

defecation syncope See vasovagal syncope.

deep vein thrombosis A blood clot within a deep vein, typically in the thigh or leg. The blood clot (thrombus) can break off as an embolus and make its way to the lung, where it can cause lung problems. Abbreviated DVT. Also known as economy-class syndrome.

decubitus ulcer See bedsore.

decongestant A drug that shrinks the swollen membranes in the nose, making it easier for a person to breathe. Decongestants can be taken orally or as nasal spray. Decongestant nasal spray should not be used for more than 5 days without a physician’s recommendation. Many decongestant nasal sprays cause a worsening of symptoms (a rebound…

deciduous teeth See primary teeth.

debride To remove dead, contaminated, or adherent tissue and/or foreign material. To debride a wound is to remove all materials that may promote infection and impede healing. This may be done by enzymes (as with proteolytic enzymes), mechanical methods (as in a whirlpool), or sharp debridement (using intruments).

debilitate To impair the strength of or to enfeeble. A chronic progressive disease may debilitate a patient.

death rate, crude The number of deaths in the population divided by the average population (or the population at midyear).

death, black See bubonic plague.

death The end, or cessation, of life. In the US, the Uniform Determination of Death Act states that: “An individual who has sustained either 1 irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory functions, or 2 irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brain stem, is dead. A determination of death must be…