Glossary

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A

Abcess

An inflamed cavity in the tissue where pus accumulates.

Absorption

The movement of a substance from the site of administration into the bloodstream.

Accommodation

The ability of the bladder wall to stretch as the bladder fills.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome AIDS

A syndrome caused by infection by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Acquired immunity

Mechanisms that an individual develops after birth that defend against foreign substances.

Acute

Short-lived.

Adjuvant

Assisting in the prevention, improvement, or cure of disease.

Adrenaline (epinephrine)

A substance released into the bloodstream by the adrenal glands that cause the heart to beat faster.

Adverse event

Any negative medical occurrence in a patient which does not necessarily relate to treatment.

Aerobic

Using oxygen for metabolism.