Dictionary

ADH Antidiuretic hormone.

adenovirus One of a group of viruses that can cause infections of the lung, stomach, intestine, and eyes. Symptoms resemble those of the common cold. There are no effective medications for treating adenovirus infection. Adenovirus infection typically does not cause death or permanent problems. More than 40 types of adenoviruses have been recognized, all of…

adenosine triphosphate A nucleotide compound that is of critical importance for the storage of energy within cells and the synthesis of RNA. Abbreviated ATP.

adenosine deaminase deficiency An autosomal recessive genetic condition that results in severe combined immunodeficiency disease. The first successful gene therapy for this condition in humans was done in 1990, by infusing patients with genetically engineered blood cells.

adenosine deaminase An enzyme that plays a key role in salvaging purine molecules. Abbreviated ADA.

adenopathy Large or swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes can become enlarged as a result of inflammatory diseases, infection, or cancer. Synonymous with lymphadenopathy.

adenomyosis A common, benign condition of the uterus in which the endometrium (the inner uterus) grows into the adjacent myometrium (the uterine musculature located just outside the endometrium). The myometrium may respond to this intrusion with muscular overgrowth. If an island of endometrial tissue is contained within the myometrium, it forms an adenomyoma. Also known…

adenomyoma A nodule that forms around endometrial tissue in cases of adenomyosis. See adenomyosis.

adenoma A benign tumor that arises in or resembles glandular tissue. If an adenoma becomes cancerous, it is called an adenocarcinoma.

adenoiditis Infection of the adenoids.

adenoidectomy The surgical removal of the adenoids.

adenoid A mass of lymphoid tissue in the upper part of the throat, behind the nose. When the adenoids are enlarged due to frequent infections, breathing through the nose may become difficult. Surgical removal may be done, often accompanied by removal of the tonsils. Also known as pharyngeal tonsil.