Dictionary

fibroblast A type of cell found in connective tissue throughout the body that produces collagen and other proteins found in the extracellular (between cells) spaces.

fibroblast growth factors A family of signaling molecules that bind to surface receptors and exert actions on cells known as fibroblasts. Abbreviated FGFs. There are multiple types of FGFs, and FGF molecules bind to a family of fibroblast growth factor receptor molecules (FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, and FGFR4). This interaction plays a role in wound healing…

fibrocystic breast condition The presence of lumpiness and/or discomfort in one or both breasts. The condition is very common and benign. Fibrocystic breast condition was formerly referred to as fibrocystic breast disease and primarily affects women between the ages of 30 and 50; it tends to become less of a problem after menopause. The diagnosis…

fibroid A common benign tumor of the uterus. Fibroids can be present without symptoms. However, in about 25 percent of women, fibroids cause symptoms such as prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, and, in rare cases, reproductive dysfunction. Drugs that manipulate the levels of steroid hormones can be effective in treating fibroids,…

fibroma A benign tumor consisting of a mass of connective tisue cells that have a spindle shape.

fibroma, cemento-ossifying A reactive lesion of the gingiva that may grow to very large size, unless treated. Abbreviated COF. A COF has a hard, fibrous consistency. Treatment is surgery. Also known as ossifying fibroma.

fever, epidemic hemorrhagic See hemorrhagic fever, viral.

fever, five-day See trench fever.

fever, intermittent A type of fever that rises and falls, often becoming worse at night and being accompanied by drenching sweats.

fever, Lassa An acute viral infection found in the tropics, especially in West Africa. Lassa fever is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus that is animal borne (zoonotic). Lassa fever can cause a potentially fatal illness, is highly contagious, and can rapidly spread. The reservoir, or host, of the Lassa virus is a rodent known…

fever, Mediterranean See familial Mediterranean fever.

fever, Q See Q fever.