cryoglobulinemia The presence in blood of abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins that have the unusual property of precipitating from the blood serum when it is chilled and redissolving upon rewarming. Cryoglobulins can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the brain (stroke), eyes, and heart. Cryoglobulins can also cause inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis), which…
cryocardioplegia Cold-induced cardioplegia. See also cardioplegia.
cruciate ligament, posterior See posterior cruciate ligament.
cruciate ligament, anterior See anterior cruciate ligament.
cruciate ligament A ligament, such as the ligaments in the knee, that crosses other ligaments. See also anterior cruciate ligament; posterior cruciate ligament.
cruciate Cross-shaped.
CRP C-reactive protein.
Crouzon syndrome A hereditary craniofacial disorder characterized by craniosynostosis, small eye sockets that cause the eyes to protrude, a large jaw, and a beaked nose with narrowed breathing passages. Some people with Crouzon syndrome also have sleep apnea, hearing loss, and other difficulties. Treatment involves surgery to correct the craniofacial malformations. Also known as craniofacial…
croup An infection of the larynx, trachea, and bronchial tubes that occurs mainly in children. It is usually caused by viruses but sometimes by bacteria. Symptoms include a cough that sounds like a seal’s bark and a harsh crowing sound during inhalation. A low-grade fever is common. A major concern with croup is difficulty breathing…
crossover study A type of clinical trial in which the study participants receive each treatment in a random order. With this type of study, every patient serves as his or her own control. Crossover studies are often used when researchers feel it would be difficult to recruit participants willing to risk going without a promising…
crossing over Exchanging genetic material between two paired chromosomes. Crossing over is a way to recombine the genetic material so that each person (except for identical twins) is genetically unique.
crossed embolism See embolism, paradoxical.