Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

Charting the location of genes on chromosomes.

A disorder in which the cornea (the normally clear front window of the eye) shows geographic map-like lines, dots (or microcysts), and grayish fingerprint lines on examination with a slit-lamp, a device that focuses a high intensity light beam as a slit while the examiner looks at the front of the eye through a magnifying scope. The…

The commonly used term for Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis. MAP is an acronym derived from the first, second, and fourth words in Mycobacterium Avium subspecies Paratuberculosis.

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor.

One of a family of medications (brand names: Aurorex, Nardil, Parnate) that act to limit the activity of monoamine oxydase (MAO) in the nervous system. MAOIs are prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, migraine, and selected other conditions in patients who are not responsive to other medications. They interact with many over-the-counter medications and some foods, so…

A term that has been used to refer to anorexia nervosa in males. This is not an officially recognized medical term but has been frequently used in media reports.

The measurement of pressure using a device called a manometer. Esophageal manometry is done to measure muscle pressure and movements in the esophagus in the evaluation of achalasia. Anal manometry, the measurement of the pressure generated by the anal sphincter, is used to evaluate anal incompetence and fecal incontinence. A blood pressure cuff is a familiar form of sphygmomanometer.

Alternating moods of abnormal highs (mania) and lows (depression). Called bipolar disorder because of the swings between these opposing poles in mood. A type of depressive disease. Not nearly as prevalent as other forms of depressive disorders. Sometimes the mood switches are dramatic and rapid, but most often they are gradual. Mania often affects thinking, judgment, and…

In a state of mania.

An abnormally elevated mood state characterized by such symptoms as inappropriate elation, increased irritability, severe insomnia, grandiose notions, increased speed and/or volume of speech, disconnected and racing thoughts, increased sexual desire, markedly increased energy and activity level, poor judgment, and inappropriate social behavior. A mild form in mania that does not require hospitalization is termed hypomania. Mania that also features…