Dictionary

cortical desmoid tumor See desmoids tumor, cortical.

corticosteroid Any of the steroid hormones made by the outer portion (cortex) of the adrenal gland. There are two sets of these hormones: the glucocorticoids, which are produced in reaction to stress and also help in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins; and the mineralocorticoids, which regulate the balance of salt and water within…

contraceptive, emergency An oral contraceptive that can be taken after unprotected intercourse. For example, emergency contraceptives may be given to victims of rape as part of aftercare procedures. Also known as the morning-after pill.

contraceptive, implanted A time-release contraceptive that is surgically implanted under the skin.

contraceptive device, intrauterine See intrauterine device.

contraction The tightening and shortening of a muscle.

contraction, uterine The tightening and shortening of the uterine muscles. During labor, contractions cause the cervix to thin and dilate, and they aid the baby in its entry into the birth canal and then its progress through the birth canal.

contraindicate To make a treatment or procedure inadvisable because of a particular condition or circumstance. For example, certain medications are contraindicated during pregnancy because of the danger they pose to the fetus, and the use of aspirin is contraindicated in small children because of the danger of Reye’s syndrome.

contraindication A condition which makes a particular treatment or procedure inadvisable.

contralateral Of or pertaining to the other side. The opposite of iposilateral (the same side). For example, a stroke involving the right side of the brain may cause contralateral paralysis of the left leg.

control In research, the group of participants that does not receive the treatment under investigation. The control group may be given a placebo treatment or receive a treatment with known results to permit comparison with the results of the experiment. In lab research that does not use live participants (in vitro research rather than in…

controlled substance A drug or chemical that is regulated by the government. This regulation applies to manufacture, possession, and usage.