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Endocrine and Reproductive sysytem
terminology
128
Medical
Not Applicable
06/04/2025

Additional Medical Flashcards

 


 

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Term
eu-
Definition
Good, normal Example: Euthyroid: A state in which the thyroid gland functions normally, producing the right levels of thyroid hormones necessary for metabolism and growth.
Term
hyper-
Definition
Above, excessive Example: Hyperthyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and nervousness.
Term
hypo-
Definition
Below, under, deficient Example: Hypoglycemia: A condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels, often causing symptoms such as dizziness, shakiness, and confusion.
Term
oxy-
Definition
Rapid, sharp, acid Example: Oxytocin: A hormone released by the pituitary gland that stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth and the release of milk during breastfeeding.
Term
pan-
Definition
All, total Example: Panhypopituitarism: A condition in which the pituitary gland fails to produce or secretes all of its hormones, leading to a wide range of endocrine dysfunctions.
Term
para-
Definition
Around, beside, beyond, abnormal Example: Parathyroid: Small glands located beside the thyroid gland, responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood and bone metabolism.
Term
poly-
Definition
Many or much Example: Polyuria: Excessive urination, a common symptom of diabetes mellitus due to high blood sugar levels affecting kidney function.
Term
syn-
Definition
Joined, together Example: Synergistic hormones: Hormones that work together to amplify their effects, such as insulin and growth hormone in promoting cell growth.
Term
tetr-
Definition
Four Example: Tetralogy of Fallot: A condition involving four congenital heart defects that may indirectly affect endocrine function due to oxygenation issues.
Term
tri-
Definition
Three Example: Triiodothyronine (T3): A thyroid hormone that contains three iodine atoms and plays a critical role in regulating metabolism and energy levels.
Term
a-
Definition
Absence of, without Example Azoospermia: The absence of sperm in semen, which can cause male infertility and may result from blockages or testicular failure.
Term
an-
Definition
Absence of, without Example Anovulation: The absence of ovulation, often leading to infertility and irregular menstrual cycles, commonly caused by hormonal imbalances or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Term
dys-
Definition
Painful, difficult Example Dysmenorrhea – Painful menstrual cramps, often caused by uterine contractions or underlying conditions like endometriosis.
Term
endo-
Definition
Within Example Endometritis: Inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium), often caused by infection or retained tissue after childbirth or miscarriage.
Term
epi-
Definition
Above Example Epidural: Pertaining to the area upon or above the dura mater of the spinal cord, commonly referring to a type of anesthesia used during childbirth to provide pain relief while allowing the patient to remain awake and alert.
Term
hyper-
Definition
Above, excessive Example Hypergonadism: A condition characterized by excessive activity of the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females), leading to overproduction of sex hormones, which can result in early puberty, menstrual irregularities, or fertility issues.
Term
hypo-
Definition
Below Example Hypogonadism: Reduced function of the gonads (testes or ovaries), leading to decreased hormone production and issues like infertility or delayed puberty.
Term
oligo-
Definition
Small amount Example Oligospermia: A condition characterized by a low sperm count in semen, often contributing to male infertility
Term
par-
Definition
Near Example Parovarian cyst: A fluid-filled cyst near the ovary, usually arising from the remnants of embryonic structures.
Term
peri-
Definition
Surrounding Example: Perimetrium: The outermost layer of the uterus, surrounding the uterine wall and providing structural support.
Term
trans-
Definition
Through, across, beyond Example Transvaginal ultrasound: An imaging procedure where a probe is inserted through the vaginal canal to obtain detailed images of reproductive organs like the uterus and ovaries.
Term
-drome
Definition
Run, running together Example: Syndrome: A group of symptoms or signs that occur together, such as Cushing’s syndrome, which results from excessive cortisol production by the adrenal glands.
Term
-ectomy
Definition
Excision, cut out Example: Thyroidectomy: Surgical removal of the thyroid gland, often performed to treat conditions such as hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, or goiters.
Term
-emia:
Definition
Condition of the blood Example: Hyperglycemia: High levels of glucose in the blood, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus and requiring careful monitoring and management.
Term
-ism
Definition
State of Example: Hypothyroidism: A state of underactive thyroid function, resulting in reduced production of thyroid hormones and symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance
Term
-itis
Definition
Inflammation Example: Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which may result from autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or infections.
Term
-logist
Definition
Specialist who studies and treats Example: Endocrinologist: A medical specialist who studies and treats disorders of the endocrine system, such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, and hormonal imbalances
Term
-logy
Definition
Study of Example: Endocrinology: The study of the endocrine system, including the glands, hormones, and their related diseases
Term
-megaly
Definition
Enlarged, enlargement Example: Acromegaly: Abnormal enlargement of extremities caused by excessive growth hormone secretion from the pituitary gland in adulthood.
Term
-oid
Definition
Resembling Example: Adrenoid: Resembling the adrenal glands in shape or function, possibly used in anatomical studies or to describe tissue with adrenal-like characteristics.
Term
-oma
Definition
Tumor Example: Insulinoma: A tumor of the pancreas that produces excessive amounts of insulin, often leading to episodes of hypoglycemia
Term
-pathy
Definition
Disease Example: Adenopathy: A disease or enlargement of glandular tissue, such as in swollen lymph nodes or glandular dysfunction in the endocrine system
Term
-plasia
Definition
Condition of, formation, development, growth Example: Hyperplasia: Excessive growth or formation of cells within an endocrine gland, such as adrenal hyperplasia, which can affect hormone production
Term
-tomy
Definition
Incision, cut into Example: Adrenalotomy: A surgical incision into the adrenal gland, often performed to remove a tumor or investigate gland abnormalities
Term
-al
Definition
Pertaining to Example Vaginal: Pertaining to the vagina, as in vaginal delivery, which refers to childbirth through the birth canal
Term
-algia
Definition
Pain Example Orchidalgia: Pain in one or both testicles. The pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe and may be acute (sudden) or chronic (lasting for a longer time)
Term
-ar
Definition
Pertaining to Example Seminiferous: Pertaining to the production of semen, such as in seminiferous tubules found in the testes
Term
-atresia
Definition
Occlusion, closure Example Vaginal atresia: Congenital closure or absence of the vaginal canal, which may require surgical correction
Term
-cision
Definition
Process of cutting Example Incision: A surgical cut made during procedures, such as a cesarean section (C-section).
Term
-cleisis
Definition
Surgical closure Example Colpocleisis: Surgical closure of the vaginal canal, often performed to treat uterine prolapse in elderly patients who are not sexually active.
Term
-ectomy
Definition
Excision or surgical removal Example Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, commonly performed to treat fibroids, cancer, or severe uterine bleeding
Term
-genesis
Definition
Beginning, development, or production Example Spermatogenesis: The production and development of sperm in the testes
Term
-gram
Definition
Record Example Hysterosalpingogram: A radiographic image of the uterus and fallopian tubes, used to assess fertility or detect blockages
Term
-graphy
Definition
Process of recording Example Mammography: The process of obtaining X-ray images of the breasts to screen for abnormalities such as tumors
Term
-ia
Definition
Diseased state, abnormal state, condition of Example Amenorrhea: The absence of menstrual periods, which can result from hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions
Term
-ic
Definition
Pertaining to Example Pelvic: Pertaining to the pelvis, as in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the reproductive organs
Term
-ism
Definition
State of, condition Example Cryptorchidism: A condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum, often requiring surgical correction
Term
-itis
Definition
Inflammation Example Endometritis: Inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus, often caused by infection or retained tissue after childbirth
Term
-logy
Definition
Study of Example Gynecology: The study of the female reproductive system, including its disorders and diseases
Term
-lysis
Definition
Loosening, dissolution, separating Example Adhesiolysis: The surgical removal of adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that can form in the pelvic region and affect fertility
Term
-oma
Definition
Tumor, mass Example Teratoma: A type of tumor composed of tissues from different germ layers, often found in the ovaries or testes
Term
-ous
Definition
Pertaining to Example Gravidous: Pertaining to pregnancy, often used in terms like multigravidous (having had multiple pregnancies
Term
-pathy
Definition
Disease Example Endometriopathy: Disease of the endometrium, which may lead to abnormal uterine bleeding or infertility
Term
-pexy
Definition
Surgical fixation, suspension Example Oophoropexy: Surgical fixation of an ovary, often performed to prevent ovarian torsion
Term
-plasia
Definition
Development, growth Example Hyperplasia: Excessive growth of cells, such as endometrial hyperplasia, which can increase the risk of uterine cancer
Term
-plasty
Definition
Surgical repair Example Vaginoplasty: Surgical repair or reconstruction of the vagina, often performed for congenital abnormalities or after trauma
Term
-rrhagia
Definition
Rapid flow of blood Example Menorrhagia: Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding, which may result from uterine fibroids or hormonal imbalances
Term
-rrhaphy
Definition
Suturing, repairing Example Perineorrhaphy: Surgical suturing of the perineum, often performed after childbirth to repair tears
Term
-rrhea
Definition
Flow, discharge Example Leukorrhea: A white or yellowish vaginal discharge, often indicating an infection or hormonal changes
Term
-stomy
Definition
Creation of a new opening Example Colpostomy: The surgical creation of an opening in the vaginal wall to drain fluid or provide access for treatment
Term
-tomy
Definition
Cut into, incision Example Episiotomy: A surgical incision made in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth
Term
aden/o
Definition
Gland Example Adenoma: A benign tumor of an endocrine gland, such as a pituitary adenoma, which can affect hormone production and cause symptoms like vision problems or hormonal imbalances
Term
adren/o, adrenal/o
Definition
Adrenal glands Example Adrenalectomy: Surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands, often performed to treat adrenal tumors or excessive hormone secretion
Term
calc/i
Definition
Calcium Example Hypercalcemia: An elevated level of calcium in the blood, often caused by overactivity of the parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism).
Term
cortic/o
Definition
Cortex, outer layer of a body organ Example Corticosteroids: Hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, such as cortisol, which play roles in stress response, immune regulation, and metabolism
Term
dips/o
Definition
Thirst Example Polydipsia: Excessive thirst, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus due to hormonal imbalances affecting water regulation
Term
endocrin/o
Definition
Endocrine Example Endocrinopathy: A disease or disorder affecting the endocrine system, including the glands and hormones that regulate bodily functions
Term
glyc/o
Definition
Sugar Example Hyperglycemia: Elevated blood sugar levels, a hallmark of diabetes mellitus caused by insufficient insulin production or action
Term
home/o
Definition
Sameness Example Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body, such as balanced hormone levels to regulate metabolism and growth
Term
kal/i
Definition
Potassium Example Hypokalemia: A condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood, which can result from adrenal dysfunction such as hyperaldosteronism
Term
myx/o
Definition
Mucus Example Myxedema: Severe hypothyroidism characterized by swelling and deposits of mucus-like substances in the skin, often affecting the face and extremities
Term
natr/o
Definition
Sodium Example Hyponatremia: A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, which can result from hormonal imbalances such as adrenal insufficiency
Term
parathyroid/o
Definition
Parathyroid gland Example Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands, often performed to treat hyperparathyroidism and manage calcium imbalances
Term
pituitar/o
Definition
Pituitary gland Example Pituitarism: Any disorder of the pituitary gland, such as hypopituitarism, which results in decreased hormone production and widespread endocrine effects
Term
somat/o
Definition
Body Example Somatotropin: A growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and cell reproduction
Term
thyr/o, thyroid/o
Definition
Thyroid gland Example Thyrotoxicosis: A condition caused by excessive thyroid hormone levels, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and tremors
Term
andr/o
Definition
Male Example Androgen: A group of male sex hormones, including testosterone, responsible for the development of male characteristics such as facial hair, deep voice, and muscle mass. Androgens also play roles in libido, bone density, and reproductive health in both males and females
Term
arche/o
Definition
First, beginning Example Menarche: The first occurrence of menstruation, marking the onset of reproductive capability in females
Term
balan/o
Definition
Glans penis Example Balanitis: Inflammation of the glans penis, often caused by poor hygiene, infections, or irritants
Term
cervic/o
Definition
Cervix Example Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix, often caused by infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
Term
colp/o
Definition
Vagina Example Colposcopy: A visual examination of the vagina and cervix using a specialized magnifying instrument to detect abnormalities
Term
crypt/o
Definition
Hidden Example Cryptomenorrhea: A condition where menstrual blood is produced but cannot exit the body due to an obstruction, most commonly an imperforate hymen. It causes pelvic pain without visible menstruation and typically requires a minor surgical procedure to restore normal menstrual flow
Term
endometri/o
Definition
Endometrium Example Endometriosis: A condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and potential infertility
Term
epididym/o
Definition
Epididymis Example Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, a coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm
Term
episi/o
Definition
Vulva Example Episiotomy: A surgical incision made in the vulva to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth
Term
gonad/o
Definition
Gonad Example The surgical removal of the gonads (testes in males or ovaries in females). This procedure is performed to treat conditions such as gonadal cancer, hormone-sensitive cancers like breast or prostate cancer, or as part of gender-affirming surgeries
Term
gyn/o, gynec/o
Definition
Woman Example Gynecomastia: A condition in males characterized by the enlargement of breast tissue, giving a female-like appearance. It is often caused by hormonal imbalances, medications, or underlying health conditions and can occur during puberty or in adulthood
Term
hemat/o
Definition
Blood Example Hematosalpinx: The presence of blood in the fallopian tube, often associated with ectopic pregnancy or trauma
Term
hymen/o
Definition
Hymen Example Hymenotomy: A surgical procedure to remove or open the hymen, often performed to address issues like imperforate hymen
Term
hyster/o
Definition
Uterus Example Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, often performed to treat fibroids, uterine cancer, or severe bleeding
Term
leuk/o
Definition
White Example Leukoplakia: The formation of white patches on mucous membranes, such as the vulva in reproductive health. Vulvar leukoplakia can cause discomfort and may sometimes be precancerous, requiring further medical evaluation
Term
mamm/o, mast/o
Definition
Breast Example Mammogram: An X-ray image of the breast used to screen for abnormalities such as lumps or tumors
Term
men/o
Definition
Menstruation Example Menopause: The cessation of menstruation, marking the end of reproductive capability in women
Term
metr/i
Definition
Uterus Example Metritis: Inflammation of the uterus, often caused by infections following childbirth or miscarriage.
Term
oophor/o
Definition
Ovary Example Oophorectomy: Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, often performed to treat ovarian cancer or cysts
Term
orch/o, orchi/o, orchid/o
Definition
Testis, testicle Example: Orchiectomy – Surgical removal of one or both testicles, often performed to treat testicular cancer.
Term
ALD
Definition
Aldosterone

A hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure and balance electrolytes by promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion.
Term
ACTH
Definition
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol, which helps regulate stress, metabolism, and immune response
Term
ADH
Definition
Antidiuretic Hormone

A hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland that regulates water balance in the body by reducing urine production and increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys
Term
DKA
Definition
Diabetic Ketoacidosis

A serious complication of diabetes where the body produces high levels of blood acids (ketones) due to insufficient insulin, often accompanied by high blood sugar levels and dehydration
Term
DM
Definition
Diabetes Mellitus

A group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from either insufficient insulin production (type 1) or resistance to insulin (type 2).
Term
EPI, Epi
Definition
Epinephrine

A hormone and neurotransmitter, also known as adrenaline, produced by the adrenal glands to prepare the body for the "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate, blood flow, and energy availability
Term
FBS
Definition
Fasting Blood Sugar

A test that measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast to help diagnose diabetes or monitor blood sugar control
Term
FSH
Definition
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a critical role in reproductive processes, including the maturation of eggs in females and the production of sperm in males
Term
GD
Definition
Graves’ Disease

An autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to overproduction of thyroid hormones
Term
HGH
Definition
Human Growth Hormone

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in the body, particularly during childhood and adolescence
Term
LADA
Definition
Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults

A form of type 1 diabetes that develops more slowly and typically occurs in adults, often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes due to its gradual onset
Term
OGTT
Definition
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

A test that measures blood sugar levels before and after drinking a glucose-containing solution to diagnose diabetes or gestational diabetes
Term
RAI
Definition
Radioactive Iodine Treatment

A therapy using radioactive iodine to destroy overactive thyroid cells, commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer
Term
TSH
Definition
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates the production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) by stimulating the thyroid gland
Term
Addison's Disease
Definition
Named After: Thomas Addison, a British physician.
A condition caused by adrenal insufficiency, leading to reduced production of cortisol and aldosterone. Symptoms include fatigue, hyperpigmentation, low blood pressure, and weight loss
Term
Cushing's Syndrome
Definition
Named After: Harvey Cushing, an American neurosurgeon.
A disorder caused by excessive cortisol levels, often due to a pituitary adenoma or long-term corticosteroid use. Symptoms include moon face, central obesity, purple striae, and hypertension
Term
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Definition
Named After: Hakaru Hashimoto, a Japanese physician.
An autoimmune disorder leading to hypothyroidism due to chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and dry skin
Term
Islets of Langerhans
Definition
Named After: Paul Langerhans, a German pathologist.
Clusters of endocrine cells in the pancreas that secrete insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. Dysfunction can lead to diabetes mellitus or other metabolic disorders
Term
AMN
Definition
Amniocentesis

A diagnostic procedure in which a needle is inserted into the amniotic sac to collect amniotic fluid, often used to detect chromosomal abnormalities or infections during pregnancy
Term
BV
Definition
Bacterial Vaginosis

A common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the natural bacteria of the vagina, often resulting in unusual discharge, odor, and irritation
Term
C-section
Definition
Cesarean Section

A surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the abdomen and uterus, often performed when a vaginal delivery is unsafe
Term
HRT
Definition
Hormone Replacement Therapy

A treatment involving supplemental hormones, typically estrogen and/or progesterone, used to alleviate symptoms of menopause or hormonal imbalances
Term
HPV
Definition
Human Papillomaviruses

A group of viruses that can cause genital warts and are associated with cervical cancer, as well as other types of cancer in both men and women
Term
HYS
Definition
Hysteroscopy

A minimally invasive procedure in which a thin, lighted scope is inserted into the uterus through the vagina to examine the uterine cavity and treat abnormalities
Term
IUD
Definition
Intrauterine Device

A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus for long-term contraception, available in hormonal and non-hormonal (copper) types
Term
NICU
Definition
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

A specialized unit in a hospital that provides intensive care to premature or critically ill newborns
Term
PID
Definition
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

An infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to infertility if untreated
Term
PMS
Definition
Premenstrual Syndrome

A group of symptoms, including mood swings, bloating, and irritability, that occur in the days leading up to menstruation.
Term
STIs, STDs
Definition
Sexually Transmitted Infections or Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Infections transmitted through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.
Term
Bartholin's Glands
Definition
Named After: Caspar Bartholin the Younger, a Danish anatomist.
Paired glands located on either side of the vaginal opening that secrete mucus to lubricate the vulva. Infections of these glands can result in Bartholin's cysts or abscesses, causing pain and swelling in the vulvar region
Term
Cowper's Glands
Definition
Named After: William Cowper, an English anatomist.
Also known as the bulbourethral glands, they are small glands in males that produce a pre-ejaculate fluid to neutralize acidity in the urethra. These glands play a role in enhancing sperm viability during ejaculation and reducing damage to sperm caused by residual urine
Term
Hegar's Sign
Definition
Named After: Alfred Hegar, a German gynecologist.
A clinical sign characterized by the softening of the lower uterine segment during early pregnancy. This is used as an early indicator of pregnancy during pelvic exams
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