ASCUS An acronym for Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance. This term is used in the Bethesda System for reporting Pap smear findings, and indicates that some flat (squamous) cells look unusual and may or may not be pre-malignant or malignant.
ascites An abnormal accumulation of fluid within the abdomen. There are many causes of ascites, including cirrhosis of the liver, cancer within the abdomen, congestive heart failure, and tuberculosis.
ascending aorta The first section of the aorta, which starts from the left ventricle of the heart and extends to the aortic arch. The right and left coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle arise from the ascending aorta.
ascaris Intestinal roundworms. Infection with ascaris is referred to as ascariasis.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 heart A human-made heart. An artificial heart is a mechanical pump that is used to replace a damaged heart temporarily or permanently.