Category: As-As

Condition in which poor blood supply to an area of bone leads to bone death. Also called avascular necrosis and osteonecrosis.

Inflammation of a bursa that is not caused by infection. A bursa is a closed fluid-filled sac that functions as a gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues of the body. When the bursa becomes inflamed, the condition is known as “bursitis.” Most commonly this is not an infectious condition (aseptic bursitis).

The absence of microorganisms. By contrast, something that just discourages the growth of microorganisms is antiseptic.

Atrial septal defect.

An acronym for Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance. This term is used in the Bethesda System for reporting Pap smear findings, and indicates that some flat (squamous) cells look unusual and may or may not be pre-malignant or malignant.

Vitamin C, an essential nutrient found mainly in fruits and vegetables. The body requires ascorbic acid in order to form and maintain bones, blood vessels, and skin. Ascorbic acid also promotes the healing of cuts, abrasions and wounds; helps fight infections; inhibits conversion of irritants in smog, tobacco smoke, and certain foods into cancer-causing substances; appears to…

One of the earliest Greek gods to specialize in healing. He was known to the Romans as Aesculapius. Healers and those in need of healing invoked Asclepius’ name in prayer and healing ceremonies in temples and at home. A healing clan known as the Asclepiads claimed to be the descendants of Asclepius and to have inherited a…

An abnormal accumulation of fluid within the abdomen. There are many causes of ascites, including cirrhosis of the liver, cancer within the abdomen, congestive heart failure, and tuberculosis.

A nerve pathway that goes upward from the spinal cord toward the brain carrying sensory information from the body to the brain. In contrast, descending pathways are nerve pathways that go down the spinal cord and allow the brain to control movement of the body below the head.

The first section of the aorta, which starts from the left ventricle of the heart and extends to the aortic arch. The right and left coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle arise from the ascending aorta.