Dictionary

spontaneous abortion See miscarriage.

sporadic Occurring upon occasion or in a scattered, isolated, or seemingly random way.

sporotrichosis An infection caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenckii, typically involving the skin. Persons handling thorny plants, sphagnum moss, or baled hay are at increased risk of developing sporotrichosis. The first sign is usually a small painless bump resembling an insect bite. The bump can be red, pink, or purple in color, and it usually…

sports medicine An interdisciplinary medical specialty concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries arising from participation in sports or exercise.

spots in front of the eyes See floaters.

sprain An injury to a ligament that results from overuse or trauma. The treatment of a sprain involves applying ice packs, resting and elevating the involved joint, and using anti-inflammatory medications. Depending on the severity and location of the sprain, support bracing can help. Local cortisone injections are sometimes given for persistent inflammation. Activity may…

sprue, nontropical See celiac sprue.

spur, heel See calcaneal spur.

sputum Mucous material from the lungs that is produced (brought up) by coughing.

sphingomyelinosis See histiocytosis, lipid.

sphygmomanometer Blood pressure cuff, an instrument for measuring blood pressure, particularly in arteries. Digital and manual models are available. The two basic types of manual sphygmomanometers are the mercury column and the gauge with a dial face. The manual sphygmomanometer in most frequent use today consists of a gauge attached to a rubber cuff that…

spider bite A bite from a spider. Bites from most spiders are irritating but not poisonous. Localized reddening and swelling are not unusual and should pass within a few days. A few spiders are poisonous, notably the black widow and brown recluse (brown fiddler) in the US. Bites from these spiders require emergency treatment, especially…