anaphylactoid purpura A form of blood vessel inflammation that affects small capillaries in the skin and the kidneys. It results in skin rash associated with joint inflammation (arthritis) and cramping pain in the abdomen. Anaphylactoid purpura frequently follows a bacterial or viral infection of the throat or breathing passages, and it is an unusual reaction…
anaphylaxis An allergic reaction. In severe cases, anaphylaxis can include potentially deadly anaphylactic shock. See also allergic reaction; anaphylactic shock.
anastomosis The connection of normally separate parts. An anastomosis may be naturally occurring or it may be created during embryonic development, surgery, or trauma, or by pathological means. An anastomosis may, for example, connect two blood vessels, or it may connect the healthy sections of the colon or rectum after a cancerous or otherwise diseased…
anat. Abbreviation for anatomy.
anatomy The study of human or animal form, by observation or examination of the living being, examination or dissection of dead specimens, microscopic examination, and/or textbooks.
anatomy, gross In medicine, the study of human structures that can be seen with the naked eye. Known among medical students studying human anatomy simply as “gross.”
anatomy, microscopic The study of normal structure of an organism under the microscope. Known among medical students simply as “micro.” Also known as histology.
anatripsis The use of friction as a treatment modality for a medical condition. Anatripsis may or may not also involve the application of a medicament.
Anderson-Fabry disease See Fabry disease.
androgen A group of hormones, including androsterone, that promotes the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics. Androgen production is stimulated by the hormone testosterone. See also testosterone.
android pelvis See male pelvis.
androstenedione A steroid produced in the adrenal gland that is a precursor to testosterone and other male hormones (androgens). Known popularly as andro, it has been used as a supplement to increase muscle strength. Taking andro raises testosterone levels above normal. Side effects include acne, male baldness, and a decrease in “good” cholesterol (which may…