Dictionary

arthrosis See joint.

articulation 1 In medicine, the joint where bones come together. See also joint. 2 In dentistry, the occlusal surfaces of the teeth, where the teeth come together. 3 In speech, the production of intelligible words and sentences by joining together the lips, tongue, palate, and other structures.

articulation disorder A speech disorder involving difficulties in articulating specific types of sounds. Articulation disorders often involve substitution of one sound for another, slurring of speech, or indistinct speech. Treatment is speech therapy.

artificial heart A human-made heart. An artificial heart is a mechanical pump that is used to replace a damaged heart temporarily or permanently.

artificial insemination A procedure in which a fine catheter (tube) is inserted through the cervix into the uterus to directly deposit a sperm sample. The purpose of this relatively simple procedure is to achieve fertilization and pregnancy. Also known as intrauterine insemination (IUI).

artificial insemination by donor A procedure in which a fine catheter (tube) is inserted through the cervix into the uterus to directly deposit a sperm sample from a donor other than the woman’s mate. The purpose of this procedure is to achieve fertilization and pregnancy. Abbreviated AID. Also known as heterologous insemination.

artificial insemination by partner A procedure in which a fine catheter (tube) is inserted through the cervix into the uterus to deposit a sperm sample from the woman’s mate directly into the uterus. The purpose of this procedure is to achieve fertilization and pregnancy. Abbreviated AIH. Also known as homologous insemination.

artificial pacemaker A device that uses electrical impulses to regulate the heart rhythm or reproduce it. An internal pacemaker is one in which the electrodes to the heart, the electronic circuitry, and the power supply are all implanted internally, within the body. Although there are different types of pacemakers, all are designed to treat a…

artificial pancreas A machine that constantly measures glucose (sugar) in the blood and, in response to an elevated level of glucose, releases an appropriate amount of insulin. In this respect, an artificial pancreas functions like a natural pancreas.

asbestos A natural material made up of tiny fibers that is used as thermal insulation. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to asbestosis and mesothelioma.

asbestosis Scarring of the lungs caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers. When asbestos fibers lodge in the lungs, they promote the development of cancer, such as mesothelioma of the pleura (the lining of the lung) and bronchogenic carcinoma (cancer of the lung). See also mesothelioma.

ascaris Intestinal roundworms. Infection with ascaris is referred to as ascariasis.