eu-

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.

hyper- 

 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.

hypo-

Below, under, deficient

 Example: Hypoglycemia: A condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels, often causing symptoms such as dizziness, shakiness, and confusion.

oxy-

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.

pan-

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.

para-

Around, beside, beyond, abnormal 

Example: Parathyroid: Small glands located beside the thyroid gland, responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood and bone metabolism.

poly-

Many or much 

Example: Polyuria: Excessive urination, a common symptom of diabetes mellitus due to high blood sugar levels affecting kidney function.

syn-

Joined, together

 Example: Synergistic hormones: Hormones that work together to amplify their effects, such as insulin and growth hormone in promoting cell growth.

tetr-

Four 

Example: Tetralogy of Fallot: A condition involving four congenital heart defects that may indirectly affect endocrine function due to oxygenation issues.

Tri-

Three

 Example: Triiodothyronine (T3): A thyroid hormone that contains three iodine atoms and plays a critical role in regulating metabolism and energy levels.

-drome

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.

-ectomy

Excision, cut out

 Example: Thyroidectomy: Surgical removal of the thyroid gland, often performed to treat conditions such as hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, or goiters.

-emia

 Condition of the blood 

Example: Hyperglycemia: High levels of glucose in the blood, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus and requiring careful monitoring and management.

-ism

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.

-itis

Inflammation

 Example: Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which may result from autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or infections.

-logist

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.

-logy

Study of

 Example: Endocrinology: The study of the endocrine system, including the glands, hormones, and their related diseases.

-megaly

Enlarged, enlargement 

Example: Acromegaly: Abnormal enlargement of extremities caused by excessive growth hormone secretion from the pituitary gland in adulthood.

-oid

Resembling 

Example: Adrenoid: Resembling the adrenal glands in shape or function, possibly used in anatomical studies or to describe tissue with adrenal-like characteristics.

-oma

Tumor

 Example: Insulinoma: A tumor of the pancreas that produces excessive amounts of insulin, often leading to episodes of hypoglycemia.

-pathy

Disease 

Example: Adenopathy: A disease or enlargement of glandular tissue, such as in swollen lymph nodes or glandular dysfunction in the endocrine system.

-plasia

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.

-tomy

Incision, cut into

 Example: Adrenalotomy: A surgical incision into the adrenal gland, often performed to remove a tumor or investigate gland abnormalities.

aden/o

Incision, cut into 

Example: Adrenalotomy: A surgical incision into the adrenal gland, often performed to remove a tumor or investigate gland abnormalities.

adren/o

adrenal/o

Adrenal glands 

Example Adrenalectomy: Surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands, often performed to treat adrenal tumors or excessive hormone secretion.

calc/i

Calcium

 Example Hypercalcemia: An elevated level of calcium in the blood, often caused by overactivity of the parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism).

cortic/o

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.

dips/o 

 Thirst 

Example Polydipsia: Excessive thirst, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus due to hormonal imbalances affecting water regulation.

endocrin/o 

 Endocrine 

Example Endocrinopathy: A disease or disorder affecting the endocrine system, including the glands and hormones that regulate bodily functions.

glyc/o

Sugar

 Example Hyperglycemia: Elevated blood sugar levels, a hallmark of diabetes mellitus caused by insufficient insulin production or action.

home/o

Sameness 

Example Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body, such as balanced hormone levels to regulate metabolism and growth.

kal/i

Potassium 

Example Hypokalemia: A condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood, which can result from adrenal dysfunction such as hyperaldosteronism.

myx/o

Mucus

 Example Myxedema: Severe hypothyroidism characterized by swelling and deposits of mucus-like substances in the skin, often affecting the face and extremities.

natr/o

Sodium 

Example Hyponatremia: A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, which can result from hormonal imbalances such as adrenal insufficiency.

parathyroid/o

Parathyroid gland

 Example Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands, often performed to treat hyperparathyroidism and manage calcium imbalances.

pitutiar/o

Pituitary gland 

Example Pituitarism: Any disorder of the pituitary gland, such as hypopituitarism, which results in decreased hormone production and widespread endocrine effects.

somat/o

 Body 

Example Somatotropin: A growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and cell reproduction.

thyr/o

thyroid/o

Thyroid gland 

Example Thyrotoxicosis: A condition caused by excessive thyroid hormone levels, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and tremors.

ALD

Aldosterone

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

ACTH

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.

ADH

 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.

DKA

 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.

DM

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).

EPI

Epi

Epinephrine

A hormone and neurotransmitter, also known as adrenaline, is produced by the adrenal glands to prepare the body for the "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate, blood flow, and energy availability.

FBS

Fasting Blood Sugar

A test that measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast to help diagnose diabetes or monitor blood sugar control.

FSH

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.

GD

Graves’ Disease

An autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to overproduction of thyroid hormones.

HGH

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.

LADA

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.

OGTT

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.

RAI

Radioactive Iodine Treatment

A therapy using radioactive iodine to destroy overactive thyroid cells, commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer.

TSH

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.

Addison's Disease

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.

Cushing's Syndrome

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.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

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.

Islets of Langerhans

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.

a-

Absence of, without 

Example Azoospermia: The absence of sperm in semen, which can cause male infertility and may result from blockages or testicular failure.

an-

 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).

dys-

Painful, difficult 

Example Dysmenorrhea – Painful menstrual cramps, often caused by uterine contractions or underlying conditions like endometriosis.

endo-

Within

 Example Endometritis: Inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium), often caused by infection or retained tissue after childbirth or miscarriage.

epi-

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.

hyper-

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.

hypo-

Below

 Example Hypogonadism: Reduced function of the gonads (testes or ovaries), leading to decreased hormone production and issues like infertility or delayed puberty.

oligo-

Small amount

 Example Oligospermia: A condition characterized by a low sperm count in semen, often contributing to male infertility.

par-

Near 

Example Parovarian cyst: A fluid-filled cyst near the ovary, usually arising from the remnants of embryonic structures.

peri-

Surrounding 

Example: Perimetrium: The outermost layer of the uterus, surrounding the uterine wall and providing structural support.

trans- 

 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.

-al

Pertaining to 

Example Vaginal: Pertaining to the vagina, as in vaginal delivery, which refers to childbirth through the birth canal.

-algia

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).

-ar

Pertaining to 

Example Seminiferous: Pertaining to the production of semen, such as in seminiferous tubules found in the testes.

-artesia

Occlusion, closure 

Example Vaginal atresia: Congenital closure or absence of the vaginal canal, which may require surgical correction

-cision

Process of cutting 

Example Incision: A surgical cut made during procedures, such as a cesarean section (C-section).

-celeis

Surgical closure 

Example Colpocleisis: Surgical closure of the vaginal canal, often performed to treat uterine prolapse in elderly patients who are not sexually active.

-ectomy

Excision or surgical removal

 Example Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, commonly performed to treat fibroids, cancer, or severe uterine bleeding

Beginning, development, or production

 Example Spermatogenesis: The production and development of sperm in the testes.

-gram

Record 

Example Hysterosalpingogram: A radiographic image of the uterus and fallopian tubes, used to assess fertility or detect blockages.

-graphy

Process of recording 

Example Mammography: The process of obtaining X-ray images of the breasts to screen for abnormalities such as tumors.

-ia

Diseased state, abnormal state, condition of 

Example Amenorrhea: The absence of menstrual periods, which can result from hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions.

-ic

Pertaining to 

Example Pelvic: Pertaining to the pelvis, as in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the reproductive organs

-ism

State of, condition

 Example Cryptorchidism: A condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum, often requiring surgical correction.

-itis

Inflammation 

Example Endometritis: Inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus, often caused by infection or retained tissue after childbirth.

-logy

Study of 

Example Gynecology: The study of the female reproductive system, including its disorders and diseases.

-lysis

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.

-oma

Tumor, mass 

Example Teratoma: A type of tumor composed of tissues from different germ layers, often found in the ovaries or testes.

-ous

Pertaining to

 Example Gravidous: Pertaining to pregnancy, often used in terms like multigravidous (having had multiple pregnancies).

-pathy

Disease

 Example Endometriopathy: Disease of the endometrium, which may lead to abnormal uterine bleeding or infertility.

-pexy

Surgical fixation, suspension 

Example Oophoropexy: Surgical fixation of an ovary, often performed to prevent ovarian torsion.

-plasia

Development, growth

 Example Hyperplasia: Excessive growth of cells, such as endometrial hyperplasia, which can increase the risk of uterine cancer.

-plasty

 Surgical repair 

Example Vaginoplasty: Surgical repair or reconstruction of the vagina, often performed for congenital abnormalities or after trauma.

-rrhagia

Rapid flow of blood

 Example Menorrhagia: Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding, which may result from uterine fibroids or hormonal imbalances

-rraphy

 Suturing, repairing

 Example Perineorrhaphy: Surgical suturing of the perineum, often performed after childbirth to repair tears.

-rrhea

Flow, discharge

 Example Leukorrhea: A white or yellowish vaginal discharge, often indicating an infection or hormonal changes.

-stomy

 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.

-tomy

Cut into, incision

 Example Episiotomy: A surgical incision made in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth.

andr/o

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.

arche/o

First, beginning 

Example Menarche: The first occurrence of menstruation, marking the onset of reproductive capability in females.

balan/o

Glans penis

 Example Balanitis: Inflammation of the glans penis, often caused by poor hygiene, infections, or irritants.

cervic/o

Cervix 

Example Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix, often caused by infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.

colp/o

Vagina 

Example Colposcopy: A visual examination of the vagina and cervix using a specialized magnifying instrument to detect abnormalities.

crypt/o

 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.

endrometri/o

Endometrium

 Example Endometriosis: A condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and potential infertility.

epodidym/o

Epididymis

 Example Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, a coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm.

episi/o

Vulva

 Example Episiotomy: A surgical incision made in the vulva to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth.

gonad/o

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.

gyn/o

gynec/o

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.

hemat/o

 Blood 

Example Hematosalpinx: The presence of blood in the fallopian tube, often associated with ectopic pregnancy or trauma.

hymen/o

  Hymen 

Example Hymenotomy: A surgical procedure to remove or open the hymen, often performed to address issues like imperforate hymen. 

Uterus 

Example Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, often performed to treat fibroids, uterine cancer, or severe bleeding.

luek/o

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

mamm/o

mast/o

Breast 

Example Mammogram: An X-ray image of the breast used to screen for abnormalities such as lumps or tumors.

men/o

Menstruation

 Example Menopause: The cessation of menstruation, marking the end of reproductive capability in women.

metr/i

Uterus 

Example Metritis: Inflammation of the uterus, often caused by infections following childbirth or miscarriage.

oophor/o

Ovary

 Example Oophorectomy: Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, often performed to treat ovarian cancer or cysts.

orch/o

orchi/o

orchid/o

Testis, testicle Example: Orchiectomy – Surgical removal of one or both testicles, often performed to treat testicular cancer.

pelv/i

Pelvis, pelvic bones, pelvic cavity

 Example Pelvimetry: Measurement of the dimensions of the pelvis, often performed during pregnancy to assess the feasibility of vaginal delivery.

pen/l

phall/o

Penis 

Example Phalloplasty: Surgical reconstruction or construction of a penis, often performed in gender-affirming surgeries

perine/o

Perineum 

Example Perineoplasty: Surgical repair of the perineum, often performed after childbirth or trauma.

posth/o

preputi/o 

Prepuce, foreskin

 Example Posthitis: Inflammation of the foreskin, often associated with infections or poor hygiene.

prostat/o

Prostate Gland

Example Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland, which can cause pain, urinary problems, and sexual dysfunction.

salping/o

Uterine tube, fallopian tube

 Example Salpingectomy: Surgical removal of a fallopian tube, often performed in cases of ectopic pregnancy or severe infections

scrot/o

Scrotum 

Example Scrotoplasty: Surgical repair of the scrotum, often performed for injuries or congenital abnormalities.

son/o

Sound waves 

Example Sonohysterography: A diagnostic imaging technique using sound waves to evaluate the uterus and detect abnormalities.

sperm/o

spermat/o

Sperm, spermatozoon

 Example Spermatorrhea: The involuntary discharge of semen without orgasm, which can result from neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, or infections affecting the male reproductive system.

test/o

testicular/o

Testis, testicle

 Example Testicular torsion: A condition where the testicle twists, cutting off its blood supply, and requiring emergency treatment.

trachel/o

 Cervix 

Example Trachelectomy: Surgical removal of the cervix, often performed as a fertility-sparing option for early-stage cervical cancer.

urethr/o

Urethra

 Example Urethrocele: Prolapse or herniation of the urethra, often seen in women due to pelvic floor weakness.

vagin/o

Vagina 

Example Vaginismus: Involuntary muscle contractions of the vagina, often causing pain during intercourse or medical exams.

vas/o

Vas deferens, vessel, duct 

Example Vasectomy: Surgical cutting and sealing of the vas deferens to prevent sperm from reaching the semen as a form of permanent contraception.

vesicul/o 

• Seminal vesicle Example Vesiculitis: Inflammation of the seminal vesicles, which can cause pain and affect fertility.

vulv/o

Vulva

 Example Vulvodynia: Chronic pain or discomfort of the vulva, often with no identifiable cause.

AMN

 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.

BV

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.

C-Section

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.

HRT 

 Hormone Replacement Therapy

A treatment involving supplemental hormones, typically estrogen and/or progesterone, used to alleviate symptoms of menopause or hormonal imbalances.

HPV

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.

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.

IUD

Intrauterine Device

A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus for long-term contraception, available in hormonal and non-hormonal (copper) types.

NICU

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

A specialized unit in a hospital that provides intensive care to premature or critically ill newborns.

PID

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

An infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to infertility if untreated.

PMS

Premenstrual Syndrome

A group of symptoms, including mood swings, bloating, and irritability, that occur in the days leading up to menstruation.

STIs

STDs

Sexually Transmitted Infections or Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Infections transmitted through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.

Bartholin's Glands

• 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.

Cowper's Glands

• 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.

Hegar's Sign

• 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.