Veterinary Medical Terminology

pre-	before
post-	after
endo-	within
pan-	all
peri-	around or surrounding
poly-	many or much
hyper-	excessive, above, over, or increased
hypo-	less than normal, beneath, under, or decreased
dys-	difficult, painful, or bad
a- or an-	without, no, or negative
ad-	toward or in the direction of
ab-	away from
anti-	against
epi-	upper
extra-	outside
trans-	across
ex- or exo-	without, out of, outside, or away from
inter-	between
intra-	within, into, or inside
oligo-	scant or little
eu-	good, easy, or normal
ecto-	outside or on
sub-	below, under, or less
gastr/o	stomach
cardi/o	heart
leuk/o	white
-ac, -al, -ar, -ary, -an, -eal, -ic, -ine, -ous, -tic	pertaining to
-therapy	treatment
-scope	instrument to view
-itis	inflammation
-ectomy	surgical removal or excision
-tomy	cutting into or incision
-stomy	to surgically produce an artificial opening between an organ and the body surface
-centesis	surgical puncture to remove fluid
-gram	record of or picture
-graph	instrument that records; occasionally used to describe the record or picture
-graphy	procedure that records
-scopy	procedure to visually examine
-megaly	enlargement
-osis	abnormal condition or disease process
-pathy	disease
-lysis	separation or breakdown
-therapy	treatment
-ia	state or condition
-ion	action, process, state, or condition
-ive	performs or tends towards
-um	structure
uria	urination
-penia	deficiency or reduction in number

uni- or mono-	one
bi-, duo-, or dyo-	two
tri-	three
quadri-, quadro-, tetr-, or tetra-	four
quint-, quinqu-, pent-, or penta-	five
sex-, hex-, or hexa-	six
sept-, sept-, hept-, or hepta-	seven
oct-, octa-, or octo-	eight
novem-, nonus-, or ennea	nine
deca-, decem-, dek-, or deka-	ten
hepat/o	liver
cyst/o	urinary bladder, cyst, or sac of fluid
cardi/o	heart
neur/o or neur/i	nerve
oste/o, oss/e, or oss/i	bone
path/o	disease
hemat/o or hem/o	blood
arthr/o	joint
eti/o	cause
chondr/o	cartilage
my/o	muscle
fasc/i or fasci/o	fascia
ten/o, tend/o, or tendin/o	tendon
arteri/o	artery
ven/o or phleb/o	vein
lymph/o	lymph fluid, vessels, or nodes
tonsill/o	tonsil
splen/o	spleen
thym/o	thymus
nas/o or rhin/o	nose
pharyng/o	throat
trache/o	windpipe
laryng/o	voice box
pneum/o, pneumon/o, pulm/o, or pulmon/o	lungs or air
or/o or stomat/o	mouth
esophag/o	esophagus
gastr/o	stomach
enter/o	small intestine
col/o or colon/o	large intestine or colon
pancreat/o	pancreas
nephr/o or ren/o	kidney
ureter/o	ureter
urethr/o	urethra
encephal/o	brain
myel/o	spinal cord or bone marrow
ocul/o, ophthalm/o, opt/o, or opt/i	eye
optic/o	sight
ot/o, aud/i, or audit/o	ear
aur/i or aur/o	external ear
acoust/o or acous/o	sound
dermat/o, derm/o or cutane/o	skin
gonad/o	gonad (ovaries in females, testes in males)
pineal/o	pineal gland
pituit/o	pituitary gland
thyroid/o	thyroid gland
orch/o, orchi/o, orchid/o, test/o, or testicul/o	testis
ovari/o or oophor/o	ovary
hyster/o, metr/o, metr/i, metri/o, or uter/o	uterus
-logy	science or study of
-logist	specialist in the study of
-oma	tumor, mass, or neoplasm (usually benign)
anterior	front of the body (in quadrupeds and arthropods the head is on the anterior end of the body; in bipeds the ventral surface is the front of the body)
posterior	rear of the body (in quadrupeds and arthropods the head is on the anterior end of the body; in bipeds the ventral surface is the rear of the body)
cranial	toward the head
caudal	toward the tail end
rostral	nose end of the head
cephalic	head or toward the head
dorsal	the back
ventral	the belly or underside
medial	toward or nearer the midline
lateral	away from or farther from the midline; the side
unilateral	one side
bilateral	two sides
deep	positioned below the surface
superficial	positioned at or near the surface
proximal	nearest the midline or beginning of a body structure
distal	farthest from the midline or beginning of a body structure
superior	uppermost, above, or toward the head
inferior	lowermost, below, or toward the tail
recumbent	lying down
dorsal recumbency	lying on the back; also called supine
ventral recumbency	lying on the underside or belly; also termed sternal recumbency
lateral recumbency	lying on the side (usually term is preceded by right or left, depending on the side the animal is lying on)
palmar	bottom of a front foot or hoof
plantar	bottom of a rear foot or hoof
abduction	to move away from the median plane or midline
adduction	to move toward the median plane or midline
flexion	to bend a joint or to reduce the angle between two bones
extension	to straighten a joint or to increase the angle between two bones
rotation	circular movement around an axis
anatomy	study of body structures
physiology	study of body functions
pathology	study of the nature, causes, and development of abnormal conditions (disease)
pathophysiology	study of changes in function caused by disease
etiology	study of disease causes
cavity	hollow space within the body or organ
cranial cavity	hollow space that contains the brain within the skull
spinal cavity	hollow space that contains the spinal cord within spinal column
thoracic cavity	hollow space that contains the heart and lungs within the ribs; also called the chest cavity
abdominal cavity	hollow space that contains the major organs of digestion; located between the diaphragm and pelvic cavity
pelvic cavity	hollow space that contains the reproductive and some excretory system organs; formed by the pelvic bones
peritoneal cavity	hollow space within the abdominal cavity between the parietal and visceral peritoneum.
abdomen	body cavity located between the diaphragm and the pelvis
thorax	chest region located between the neck and the diaphragm
umbilicus	pit in the abdominal wall marking the point where the umbilical cord entered the fetus; also known as the naval
groin	region between the lower abdomen and proximal thigh; also known as the inguinal area
peritoneum	membrane covering the walls of the abdominal and pelvic cavities and some organs in this area
membrane	thin layer of tissue that covers a surface, lines a cavity, or divides a space or organ
mesentery	layer of the peritoneum that suspends parts of the intestine within the abdominal cavity
retroperitoneal	behind or underneath the peritoneum
peritonitis	inflammation of the peritoneum
tissue	groups of specialized cells that are similar in structure and function
neoplasm	any abnormal new growth of tissue in which the multiplication of cells is uncontrolled, more rapid than normal, and progressive
tumor	distinct mass of tissue with no physiological use or function
benign	causing little or no harm; not malignant
malignant	tending to spread, becoming progressively worse, life-threatening
organ	part of the body that performs a special function or functions

dia-	through, between, apart, complete
epi-	above, upon, or upper
peri-	surrounding
meta-	beyond, after, next, behind, or change
ligament/o	ligament
ten/o, tend/o, or tendin/o	tendon
burs/o	bursa
synovi/o	synovial membrane or synovial fluid
crani/o	skull
cost/o	rib
spondyl/o or vertebr/o	vertebra or vertebral column
onych/o	claw or nail
fibr/o or fibros/o	fibrous tissue; tissue that is arranged in fibers
ton/o	tone, tension, or stretching
tax/o	coordination or order
rhabdomy/o	striated muscle
leiomy/o	smooth muscle
-desis	to bind or surgical fixation of a bone or joint
-poietic	formation
hematopoietic	formation of blood cells
connective tissue	fibrous tissue that bind and support various body structures; includes bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments
cartilage	form of connective tissue that covers the joint surfaces of bone
articular cartilage	form of connective tissue that forms the temporary skeleton of the embryo, provides for bone growth, and covers the joint surfaces of bone
muscle	connective tissue composed of fibers that contract to allow for movement
ligament	band of fibrous connective tissue that connects bone to bone or organ to organ
tendon	fibrous connective tissue that connects muscle to bone
bursa	fluid filled sac that acts as a cushion to ease movement in areas subject to friction
bone	connective tissue that forms the framework that supports and protects the body
fascia	sheet of fibrous connective tissue that covers, supports, and separates muscle
periosteum	tough, fibrous tissue that forms the outermost covering of bone
endosteum	tissue lining the medullary cavity of bone
meniscus	curved fibrous cartilage found in some synovial joints
epiphysis	wide end of a long bone, which is covered with articular cartilage and is composed of cancellous bone
physis	bone segment that involves growth in length of the bone in young animals; also means growth
diaphysis	shaft of a long bone, which is mainly composed of compact bone
metaphysis	wider portion of the long bone shaft that is found between the epiphysis and diaphysis; “to grow beyond”
joint	place of bone union
articulation	connection between two bones
articulate	to join or to come together in a manner that allows motion between the parts; also means to speak clearly
suture	jagged line where bones join and form a joint that does not move; also means to stitch or refers to the material used in closing a surgical or traumatic wound with stitches
fontanelle	soft spot remaining at the junction of the sutures; usually this closes after birth
symphysis	area where two bones join and are held firmly together so that they function as one bone; also known as a cartilaginous joint
synovial joint	movable joint
axial skeleton	bones including the skull, hyoid bones, vertebral column, ribs, and sternum
appendicular skeleton	bones of the extremities, including the shoulder and pelvic girdle
cranium	portion of the skull that encloses the brain
foramen	opening (usually in a bone through which blood vessels, nerves, and ligaments pass)
costal	rib
xiphoid process	cartilaginous caudal part of the sternum
vertebra	a single spinal column bone; plural is vertebrae
sternum	bone that forms the ventral portion of the rib cage, also known as the breastbone
manubrium	cranial end of the sternum
vertebral column	bones that support the head and body and provide bony protection for the spinal cord
intervertebral disc	cartilage that separates and cushions the vertebrae from each other
atlas	cervical vertebra 1
axis	cervical vertebra 2
cervical vertebrae	first set of vertebrae that are found in the neck region; abbreviated C in vertebral formula
thoracic vertebrae	second set of vertebrae that are found in the chest region; abbreviated T in vertebral formula
lumbar vertebrae	third set of vertebrae that are found in the loin area; abbreviated L in vertebral formula
sacrum	fourth set of fused vertebrae that are found where the pelvis attaches to the spinal column; also known as the sacral vertebrae; abbreviated S in vertebral formula
coccygeal vertebrae	fifth set of vertebrae that are found in the tail; abbreviated Co or Cy in vertebral formula; also called caudal vertebrae and abbreviated Cd
ungulate	animals with hooves
pelvis	hip
ilium	cranial bones of the pelvis
ischium	caudal bones of the pelvis
pubis	ventral bones of the pelvis
acetabulum	large, cup-shaped, articular socket in the pelvis that holds the ball-shaped head of the femur
ulna	caudal forelimb long bone that articulates proximally with the humerus to form the elbow joint and distally with the bones of the carpus
radius	cranial forelimb long bone that articulates proximally with the humerus to form the elbow joint and distally with the bones of the carpus
scapula	pectoral girdle flat bone that articulates distally with the humerus; also known as the shoulder blade
humerus	proximal forelimb long bone that articulates proximally with the scapula and distally with the radius and ulna to form the elbow joint
carpus	joint of the distal forelimb located between the radius and ulna and the metacarpals
phalanx	bone of the digit; plural is phalanges
femur	proximal hindlimb long bone that articulates proximally with the pelvis and distally with the tibia and fibula; also called the thigh bone
olecranon	proximal projection of the ulna
metacarpals	bones distal to the carpus and proximal to the phalanges (number of bones varies with species)
metatarsals	bones distal to the tarsus and proximal to the phalanges (number of bones varies with species)
tibia	larger of the two hindlimb long bones that articulates proximally with the femur to form the stifle joint and distally with the tarsus
fibula	smaller of the two hindlimb long bones that articulates proximally with the femur and distally with the tarsus
tarsus	joint of the distal hindlimb located between the tibia and fibula and the metatarsals; also called the hock
crus	portion of the hindlimb between the stifle and tarsal joints
trochanter	large, flat, broad projection on a bone
patella	kneecap; sesamoid bone over the stifle joint
popliteal	posterior surface of the stifle
stifle joint	synovial joint located between the femur and tibia; also known as the stifle
process	projection on a bone
lamina	one part of the dorsal portion of a vertebra
clavicle	slender bone that connects the sternum to the scapula (not present in all species); also called the collarbone
mandible	lower jaw bone, the only movable bone of the skull
maxilla	upper jaw bone of the skull
cancellous bone	inner, spongy portion of long bone that houses the red bone marrow; also called spongy bone
cancellous	latticework
cortex	bark or shell
compact bone	hard, dense, outer shell of bone; also called cortical bone
medullary cavity	innermost portion of long bones located in the shaft
cannon bone	common name for metacarpal III and metatarsal III in livestock
coffin bone	common name for the third phalanx of livestock
coffin joint	distal interphalangeal joint between phalanx 2 and phalanx 3 in livestock
dewclaw	functionless, rudimentary first digit of dogs and cats, found on the medial side of the forelimbs; also the accessory claw of the ruminant foot
digit	distal extremity made up of phalanges (e.g., toes, claws, hooves, etc.)
fetlock joint	joint between the metacarpals and metatarsals and phalanx 1 in livestock; also called the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joint
navicular bone	distal sesamoid bone in the equine foot
pastern joint	common name for the connection between phalanx 1 and 2 in livestock
long pastern bone	in ungulates, phalanx I
short pastern bone	in ungulates, phalanx II
pubic symphysis	cartilaginous connection between the pubic bones on the ventral surface of the pelvis
rib	flat, curved bone that forms the thoracic wall
sesamoid	a small, flat bone embedded in tendon or joint capsule
sinus	air-filled or fluid-filled cavity within a bone; also means channel
splint bones	common name for metacarpals II and IV or metatarsals II and IV in equine
ball-and-socket joint	type of synovial joint that allows free movement in all planes
linea alba	fibrous band of connective tissue on the ventral abdominal wall that is the center attachment of the abdominal muscles; “white line”
insertion	muscle ending that is the movable end or portion away from midline
synovial membrane	lining of bursa or joint that secretes fluid to lubricate the joint
epaxial	region along the dorsal portion of the vertebral column
intercostal	between the ribs
condyle	rounded projection on a bone
contraction	tightening
relaxation	lessening of tension
neuromuscular	area between the nerve endings and muscles or the area of the nerves and muscles
pectoral	breast or chest area
arthroscopy	endoscopic examination of the internal structure of a joint
arthroscope	endoscopic instrument used to visually examine the internal structure of a joint
radiology	study of internal body structures after exposure to ionizing radiation
luxation	dislocation or displacement of a bone from its joint; also called dislocation
subluxation	partial displacement of a bone from its joint
arthritis	inflammatory condition of joint
osteoarthritis	noninflammatory degenerative joint disease involving cartilage, bone, and the synovial membrane
spondylosis	any degenerative condition of the vertebrae, usually involving bony bridging of adjacent vertebrae
intervertebral disc disease	rupture or protrusion of the cushioning disc found between the vertebrae that results in pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerve roots; also called herniated disc, ruptured disc, or IVDD
hip dysplasia	abnormal development of the pelvic joint causing the head of the femur and the acetabulum not to be aligned properly
lordosis	position in which the vertebral column is abnormally curved ventrally; seen in cats in heat; commonly called swayback
spondylosis deformans	chronic degeneration of the articular processes and the development of bony outgrowths around the ventral edge of the vertebrae
spondylitis	inflammation of the vertebrae
spur	bony projection growing out of a bone
osteitis	inflammation of bone
osteomyelitis	inflammation of bone and bone marrow
osteophyte	knoblike projection found at cartilage degeneration sites; free floating osteophytes are commonly called joint mice
osteoporosis	abnormal condition of marked loss of bone density and an increase in bone porosity
fracture	broken bone
crepitation	cracking sensation that is felt and heard when broken bones move together
arthrodesis	fusion of a joint or the spinal vertebrae by surgical means
external fixation	alignment of bone maintained by immobilizing the bone near the fracture through the use of casts, splints, or external fixators (rods or pins)
internal fixation	alignment of bone maintained by immobilizing the bone directly at the fracture site through the use of wires, screws, pins, or plates
laminectomy	surgical removal of the dorsal arch of a vertebra
ostectomy	surgical removal of bone
amputation	removal of all or part of a body part (usually a limb)
osteotomy	surgical incision or sectioning of bone
manipulation	attempted realignment of a fractured or dislocated bone; also known as reduction
immobilization	the act of holding, suturing, or fastening a bone in a fixed position, usually with a bandage or cast; to prevent movement
onychectomy	surgical removal of the claw; also known as a declaw
spondylitis	inflammation of the vertebrae
osteochondrosis dissecans	degeneration or necrosis of bone and cartilage followed by regeneration or recalcification with dissecting flap of articular cartilage and some inflammatory joint changes
osteochondrosis	degeneration or necrosis of bone and cartilage followed by regeneration or recalcification
synovitis	inflammation of the synovial membrane of joints
tonus	tension
flexor	muscle that bends a limb at a joint
extensor	muscle that straightens a limb at a joint
levator	muscle that raises or elevates a part
abductor	muscle that moves a part away from the midline
adductor	muscle that moves a part toward the midline
depressor	Muscle that lowers or depresses a part
rotator	muscle that turns a body part on its axis
atrophy	wasting of tissue; "without growth"
laxity	looseness, not tight
origin	muscle beginning that is usually the more fixed attachment or portion toward midline
skeletal muscle	type of striated muscle; movement is voluntary
smooth muscle	type of unstriated muscle; movement is involuntary
synergist	things that work together; also called agonist
antagonist	things that work opposite each other
tetany	spasms of muscle
myoma	benign tumor of muscle
triceps	muscle with three heads
biceps	muscle with two heads
electromyography	process of recording the strength of muscle contraction due to electrical stimulation; abbreviated EMG
electromyogram	record or printout of the strength of muscle contraction due to electrical stimulation
tendinitis	inflammation of a tendon
fibroma	tumor composed of fully developed connective tissue; also called fibroid
ataxia	inability to voluntarily control muscle movement
atonic	lacking muscle control
myoclonus	spasm of muscle
myositis	inflammation of muscles
adhesion	band of fibers that hold structures together in an abnormal fashion
hernia	protrusion of a body part through tissues that normally contain it
myopathy	abnormal condition or disease of muscle
tenectomy	surgical removal of part of a tendon
tenotomy	surgical division of a tendon
myectomy	surgical removal of muscle or part of a muscle
myotomy	surgical incision into or dividing a muscle

forelock	in maned animals the most cranial part of the mane, hanging down between the ears and onto the forehead
forehead	region of the head between the eyes and ears
switch	tuft of hair at the end of the tail
chine	thoracic region of the back of goats
wattle	appendages suspended from the head (usually under the chin) of goats
rump	sacral to tailhead region of the back
poll	top of the head; the occiput
mane	region of long coarse hair at the dorsal border of the neck and terminating at the poll
crest	upper margin of the neck; root of the mane in equine
muzzle	the two nostrils (including the skin and fascia) and the muscles of the upper and lower lip; also used to describe an appliance placed over the mouth of an animal to prevent biting
cheek	fleshy portion of either side of the face, forming the sides of the mouth and continuing rostrally to the lips
shoulder	region around the large joint between the humerus and scapula
chest	part of the body between the neck and abdomen; the thorax
forearm	part of the foreleg supported by the radius and ulna; between the elbow and carpus
elbow	forelimb joint formed by distal humerus, proximal radius, and proximal ulna
fetlock	area of the limb between the pastern and the cannon
heart girth	circumference of the chest just caudal to the shoulders and cranial to the back
knee	in ungulates, the carpus; may be used by lay people to describe the stifle joint in dogs and cats
heel	caudal region of the hoof that has an area of soft tissue called the bulb
chestnuts	horny, irregular growths on the medial surface of the equine leg; in the front legs, the chestnuts are just above the knee; in the rear legs, the chestnuts are near the hock
hock	tarsal joint; also called the tarsus
paralumbar fossa	hollow area of the flank whose boundaries are the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae (dorsally), the last rib (cranially), and the thigh muscles (caudally)
pastern	area of the limb between the fetlock and hoof
coronary band	the junction that produces the hoof wall located between the skin and the horn of the hoof; also called the coronet
hoof wall	hard, horny substance made up of parallel fibers covering the digit of ungulates; wall should be dense, straight, and free from ridges and cracks
hoof	in ungulates, the hard covering of the digit
sole	ventral surface of the hoof
frog	V-shaped pad of soft horn between the bars on the sole of the equine hoof
bars	raised V-shaped structure on distal surface of the equine hoof
white line	fusion between the wall and sole of the hoof in equine
ergot	small mass of horn in a small bunch of hair on the palmar or plantar aspects of the equine fetlock
barrel	circumference of the chest or trunk of equine and cattle; used as a guideline for feed capacity
flank	side of the body between the ribs and ilium
gaskin	muscular portion of the hindlimb between the stifle and hock
croup	muscular area around and above the tail base in equine
tail	caudal part of the vertebral column extending beyond the trunk
withers	dorsal region of the horse located between both scapulae
dewlap	flap of loose skin under the throat and neck, which may become pendulous in some species or breeds
brisket	mass of connective tissue, muscle, and fat covering the cranioventral part of the ruminant chest between the forelegs
dewclaw	accessory claw of the ruminant and porcine foot that projects caudally from the fetlock; also the rudimentary first digit of dogs and cats
quarter	lateral or medial side of the hoof; one of four glands in the cow's udder
teat	nipple of mammary gland
udder	mammary gland
toe	cranial side of the hoof
tail head	base of the tail where it connects to the body
hooks	protrusion of the wing of the ilium on the dorsolateral area of ruminants
pins	protrusion of the ischial bones just lateral to the tail head in ruminants
dock	amputation of the tail, portion of the tail left after amputation, or the solid part of the equine tail; also means to lower in value
loin	lumbar region of the back, between the thorax and pelvis
ham	musculature of the upper thigh
jowl	external throat, especially when fat or loose skin is present
snout	upper lip and apex of the nose of swine
chin	rostroventral protrusion of the mandible
pinna	projecting part of the ear lying outside the head; the auricle
intact	capable of reproduction
dog	intact male canine; also known as stud
canine	species name for dog
bitch	intact female canine
whelp	unweaned canine
whelping	giving birth to canines
litter	multiple offspring born during same labor; also is a substance used by animals that is appropriate for urination and defecation
pack	group of canines
feline	species name for cat
tom	intact male cat or turkey
queen	intact female cat
kitten	young cat
queening	giving birth to cats
buck	intact male rabbit or goat
lapin	castrated male rabbit
doe	intact female rabbit or goat
kit	young rabbit (blind and deaf) or ferret
kindling	giving birth to rabbits or ferrets
herd	group of rabbits, pigs, horses, donkeys, ponies, mules, goats, or cattle
hob	intact male ferret
jill	intact female ferret
sprite	spayed female ferret
gib	neutered male ferret
cock	intact male parrot or chicken
pups	young mice, rats, guinea pigs, or dogs
gang	group of mice
hen	intact female parrot, turkey, or chicken
chick	young parrot or very young chicken
poult	young turkey or chicken
flock	group of turkeys, chickens, ducks, parrots, or sheep
clutch	group of eggs
rooster	intact male chicken; also called cock
cockerel	immature male chicken
pullet	immature female chicken
clutch	group of eggs
capon	castrated young chicken or domestic fowl
boar	intact male porcine or guinea pig
porcine	species name for swine, pigs, or hogs
sow	intact female pig or guinea pig
gilt	young female pig that has not yet farrowed
pig or piglet	young pig; old term is shoat
barrow	male pig that was castrated when young
stag	male pig or bovine that was castrated after maturity
farrowing	giving birth to pigs or guinea pigs
stallion	intact male horse four years old and over
equine	species name for horses (includes donkeys and mules)
ridgeling	cryptorchid male horse; also called rig or high flanker
mare	intact female horse four years old and over
suckling	a still-nursing foal
band	group of horses consisting of one mature stallion, his breeding mares, and the immature male and female offspring of his mares
brood mare	intact female horse used for breeding
maiden mare	intact female horse that has never bred
barren mare	intact female horse that was not bred or did not conceive in the previous season; also called open mare
wet mare	intact female horse that has foaled during the current breeding season and is nursing a foal
agalactic mare	female horse not producing milk
colt	intact male horse or donkey usually under four years of age
filly	intact female horse or donkey usually under four years of age
gelding	castrated male horse or donkey
foal	young horse or donkey of either sex
foaling	giving birth to horses or donkeys
weanling	young horse that is less than one year of age and is no longer nursing
yearling	young horse between one and two years of age; sheep 1–2 years of age (used when marketing sheep)
pony	equine that is between 8.2 and 14.2 hands when mature
ass or burro	donkey
jack or jack ass	male donkey
jenny	female donkey
mule	offspring of a jack and a mare (mules are sterile)
hinny	offspring of a stallion and a jenny (hinnies are sterile)
ram	intact male sheep
ovine	species name for sheep
ewe	intact female sheep
lamb	young sheep
hothouse lamb	young sheep less than 3 months of age
spring lamb	young sheep 3–7 months of age
wether	castrated male sheep or goat
lambing	giving birth to sheep
kid	young goat
kidding	giving birth to goats
caprine	species name for goats
freshen	giving birth in dairy animals
bull	intact male bovine
bovine	species name for cattle
heifer	young female bovine that has not given birth
cow	intact female bovine that has given birth
steer	male bovine castrated while young
jumper bull	male bovine around maturity that is intended for breeding
springing heifer	young female bovine that is pregnant with her first calf
freemartin	sexually imperfect, usually a sterile female calf twinborn with a male calf
calf	young bovine, usually under one year of age
calving	giving birth to bovine; may also be referred to as freshening
gomer bull	bull used to detect female bovines in heat; bull may have penis surgically deviated to the side, may be treated with androgens, or may be vasectomized so as not to impregnate female; also called teaser bull
sire	male of any species that has produced offspring; used commonly in bovine and rodents
dam	female of any species that has produced offspring; used commonly in bovine and rodents
cavy	species name for guinea pigs
lagomorph	animals such as rabbits or hares that have a second pair of incisors in the maxilla

mal-	bad or poor
para-	near
dips/o	thirst
phag/o	eating or ingestion
abdomin/o or celi/o	abdomen
lapar/o	abdomen and flank
aliment/o	nourishment
palat/o	roof of the mouth
gloss/o or lingu/o	tongue
dent/i, dent/o, or odont/o	teeth
decidu/o	shedding
gingiv/o	gingiva
sial/o or sialaden/o	salivary glands or saliva
pylor/o	narrow passage; means gatekeeper
duoden/i or duoden/o	duodenum
jejun/o	jejunum
ile/o	ileum
cec/o	cecum
rect/o	rectum
an/o	anus
proct/o	both the rectum and anus
chol/e	bile or gall
-prandial	meal
gastrointestinal system	digestive system (literally means pertaining to the stomach and intestines)
alimentary system	body system responsible for the intake, digestion, absorption, and elimination of food or nutrients; also called gastrointestinal system, GI system, or digestive tract
palate	roof of the mouth separating the oral cavity from the nasal cavity
dentition	arrangement of teeth
ruga	irregular fold in the mucous membranes; plural is rugae
incisors	front teeth of the dental arcade used for cutting; abbreviated I in dental formula
canine teeth	long, pointed teeth located between the incisors and premolars; also called cuspids; abbreviated C in dental formula
premolar	cheek teeth found between the canine teeth and molars; abbreviated P in dental formula
molar	most caudally located cheek teeth in the dental arcade; abbreviated M in dental formula
deciduous teeth	temporary set of teeth that erupt in young animals and are replaced at or near maturity
retained deciduous teeth	deciduous teeth that are not shed at the appropriate time
gingiva	mucous membrane that surrounds teeth and forms the mouth lining; also called the gums
salivary gland	oral cavity gland that secretes saliva
parotid	located near the ear
pharynx	cavity in the caudal oral cavity that joins the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems; also called the throat
esophagus	collapsible tube that leads from the oral cavity to the stomach
sphincter	ringlike muscle that constricts an opening
fundus	base of an organ
pylorus	narrow passage; bottom aperature that connects the stomach and duodenum
aboral	away from the mouth
duodenum	proximal or oral portion of the small intestine; located between the pylorus and jejunum
jejunum	middle portion of the small intestine; located between the duodenum and ileum
ileum	distal or aboral portion of the small intestine; located between the jejunum and large intestine
colon	part of large intestine located between the cecum and rectum
cecum	proximal part of the large intestine that forms a pouch
ingesta	material taken orally
ascending	progressing upward or cranially
transverse	extending from side to side or at right angles to the long axis
descending	progressing downward or caudally
rectum	distal portion of the large intestine
anus	caudal opening of the gastrointestinal tract
anorectal	distal portion and caudal opening of the large intestine
bile	digestive fluid produced by the liver
cholecystic	gallbladder
pancreas	organ that secretes digestive enzymes and endocrine hormones
dental formula	guide to the types and numbers of teeth found in the mouth
digestion	process of breaking down foods into nutrients that the body can use
inappetence	lacking desire to eat; not the same definition as anorexia
metabolism	processes involved in the body’s use of nutrients
anabolism	building of body cells and substances
catabolism	breaking down of body cells and substance
absorption	process of taking digested nutrients into the circulatory system
nutrient	substance that is necessary for normal functioning of the body
mastication	breaking down food into smaller parts and mixing it with saliva; also called chewing
peristalsis	series of wavelike contractions of smooth muscles
feces	solid body wastes expelled through the rectum; also called stool, bowel movements, dung, excreta, manure, or defecation
esophagoscopy	endoscopic examination of the esophagus; scope is passed from the oral cavity through the esophagus
gastroscopy	endoscopic examination of the stomach; scope is passed from oral cavity through stomach
colonoscopy	endoscopic examination of the inner surface of the colon; scope passes from rectum into colon
dental calculus	abnormal mineralized deposit (along with bacteria and food particles) that forms on the teeth; also called tartar
gingivitis	inflammation of the gums
malocclusion	abnormal contact between teeth
occlusion	any contact between the chewing surfaces of the teeth; also blockage in a vessel or passageway in the body
esophageal reflux	return of stomach contents into the esophagus; also called gastroesophageal reflux
reflux	backward or return flow
gastritis	inflammation of the stomach
ulcer	focal loss of superficial tissue, exposing tissue beneath
anorexia	lack or loss of appetite
regurgitate	return of swallowed food into the oral cavity
vomiting	forcible expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth
vomitus	material vomited
emesis	vomiting
eructation	belching or raising gas orally from the stomach
gastroenteritis	inflammation of the stomach and small intestine
enteritis	inflammation of the small intestine
ileitis	inflammation of the ileum
ileus	stoppage of intestinal peristalsis
chyle	milky fluid consisting of lymph and triglyceride from digestion of food
colitis	inflammation of the colon
stoma	opening or mouth
dysentery	number of disorders marked by inflammation of the intestine
impaction	obstruction of an area usually with feed that is too dry
hepatitis	inflammation of the liver
cirrhosis	degenerative disease that disturbs the structure and function of the liver
jaundice	yellow discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to greater than normal levels of bilirubin; also called icterus
ascites	abnormal accumulation of the fluid in the peritoneal cavity
hepatomegaly	abnormal enlargement of the liver
cholecystitis	inflammation of the gallbladder
biliary	bile
emetic	produces vomiting
antiemetic	prevents vomiting
polyphagia	increased eating or swallowing
stomatitis	inflammation of the mouth
monogastric	an animal with one true or glandular stomach
ruminant	cud-chewing animal that has three fore-stomachs which allows for fermentation of ingesta in addition to one true or glandular stomach
bloat	excessive gas accumulation in the rumen, abomasum, stomach, or cecum; in regards to ruminants usually implies accumulation of excessive ruminal gas resulting in distension
tympany	detection of intestinal or free gas via resonance
abomasum	fourth stomach compartment of the ruminant; the true stomach
omasum	third compartment of the ruminant fore-stomach
reticulum	most cranial compartment of the ruminant fore-stomach
rumen	largest compartment that serves as a fermentation vat of the ruminant fore-stomach
regurgitation	return of swallowed food into the oral cavity; a passive event compared with the force involved with vomiting
abdomen	cavity located between the diaphragm and pelvis
cud	food particles, fiber, rumen fluid, and rumen microorganisms regurgitated by ruminants
flexure	bend or curved part of a structure
peritoneum	membrane lining that covers the abdominal and pelvic cavities and some of the organs in that area
mesentery	fold of peritoneum that attaches intestine to the dorsal abdominal wall
omentum	fold of peritoneum that connects and supports the stomach to the other visceral organs
saliva	secretion from glands in the oral cavity that moistens food, aids in bolus formation, and contains small amounts of digestive enzymes
stomach	digestive pouch at the distal end of the esophagus that mechanically and chemically breaks down food
tongue	movable muscular organ in the oral cavity used for tasting and processing of food, grooming, and sound articulation
colic	severe abdominal pain
displaced abomasum	disease of ruminants in which the abomasum dilates and migrates either to the left or right of its normal position; abbreviated DA and is denoted LDA (left displaced abomasum) or RDA (right displaced abomasum) depending on its location
enterocolitis	inflammation of the small intestines and the large intestine
eviscerate	removal or exposure of internal organs
glossitis	inflammation of the tongue
scours	diarrhea in livestock
constipation	condition of prolonged gastrointestinal transit time, making the stool hard, dry, and difficult to pass
diarrhea	abnormal frequency and liquidity of fecal material
polydipsia	excessive thirst or drinking; abbreviated PD
hyperglycemia	elevated blood sugar levels
hypoglycemia	lower than normal blood sugar levels
incontinence	inability to control excretory function
fecal incontinence	inability to control bowel movements
stenosis	narrowing of an opening
prolapse	protrusion of viscera; “to fall forward”
anal sacculitis	inflammation of the pouch(es) located around the anus
hepatoma	liver neoplasm
polyp	small growth from a body surface (mucous membrane or cutaneous surface)
abdominocentesis	surgical puncture to remove fluid from the abdominal cavity
endoscope	tubelike instrument with lights and refracting mirrors that is used to internally examine the body or organs
endoscopy	visual examination of the interior of any body cavity using an endoscope
enema	introduction of fluid into the rectum
gastropexy	surgical fixation of the stomach to the abdominal wall
barium	contrast material used for radiographic studies
biopsy	removal of tissue to examine
cribbing	vice of equine in which an object is grasped between the teeth, pressure is applied, and air is inhaled
radiography	imaging of internal structures is created by the exposure of sensitized film to X-rays
ultrasound	imaging of internal body structures by recording echoes of sound waves
float	instrument used in filing or rasping an equine’s premolar and/or molar teeth
cachexia	general ill health and malnutrition; used in describing the condition of cancer patients
emaciation	marked wasting or excessive leanness
bolus	rounded mass of food, large pharmaceutical preparation, or to give something rapidly
per os	orally; abbreviated po
postprandial	after eating
preprandial	before eating
lethargy	condition of drowsiness, listlessness, or indifference
flatulence	excessive gas formation in the gastrointestinal tract
dehydration	condition of excessive loss of body water or fluid
dental caries	decay and decalcification of teeth; producing a hole in the tooth
inspissation	process of rendering dry or thick by evaporation
antidiarrheal	substance that prevents diarrhea
papilla	small protrusion or elevation; plural is papillae
sublingual	under the tongue
intestinal flora	normal microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract
extraction	to remove; used to describe surgical removal of a tooth
gastrectomy	surgical removal of all or part of the stomach
gastrotomy	surgical incision into the stomach
laparotomy	surgical incision through the abdominal wall into the abdominal cavity
gastrostomy	surgical production of an artificial opening between the stomach and abdominal wall
colostomy	surgical production of an artificial opening between the colon and the body surface
gastroenterology	the study of the stomach and small intestine

noct-	night
cortic/o	outer layer or region
home/o	unchanging
ur/o or urin/o	urine or pertaining to urinary organs
lith/o	stone or calculus
medull/o	middle or inner portion
glomerul/o	cluster of capillaries; glomerulus
pyel/o	renal pelvis
-lith	stone or calculus
-chrome	color
-ptosis	drooping or dropping down
-lysis	to separate or break down
-dipsia	thirst
urinary system	body system that removes wastes from the body by constantly filtering blood
urea	end product of protein metabolism found in urine, blood, and lymph
homeostasis	stable internal environment
kidney	paired urinary system organ that filters blood and removes waste products from the blood
cortex	outer layer/region
medulla	inner layer or region
nephron	functional unit of the kidney
glomerulus	cluster of capillaries that filter blood; plural is glomeruli
renal	pertaining to the kidney
renal pelvis	area of kidney that collects urine from the nephrons before it enters the ureters
ureter	narrow tube that is located between each kidney and the urinary bladder
urinary bladder	singular, hollow, muscular organ that holds urine
urethra	single tube connecting the urinary bladder to the outside of the body; in males the urethra passes through the penis to the outside of the body; it serves both the reproductive and urinary systems
Bowman’s capsule	cup-shaped structure that contains a glomerulus of the kidney
calyx or calix	cuplike organ or cavity
collecting tubules	hollow tubes that carry urine from the renal cortex to the renal pelvis
distal convoluted tubules	hollow tubes located between the loops of Henle and the collecting tubules
proximal convoluted tubules	hollow tubes located between Bowman’s capsule and the loops of Henle
loop of Henle	U-shaped turn in the convoluted tubule of the kidney located between the proximal and distal convoluted tubules
tubule	small tube
hilus	concave depression of medial aspect of kidney where the ureters, blood vessels, and nerves enter
excretion	act of eliminating or material that is eliminated
elimination	act of eliminating/excreting material
urination	excreting urine (implies neurologic control of urination)
micturition	excreting urine
voiding	eliminating
anuria	complete suppression of urine production
crystalluria	excretion of naturally produced angular solid of definitive form (crystals)
dysuria	difficult or painful urination
oliguria	scanty or little urination
nocturia	excessive urination at night
polyuria	increased urination; abbreviated PU
stranguria	slow or painful urination
pollakiuria	frequent urination
bacteriuria	presence of bacteria in the urine
glucosuria	glucose (blood sugar) in the urine
proteinuria	presence of large organic compound made of amino acids (protein) in the urine
polydipsia	increased thirst or drinking; abbreviated PD
urinary catheterization	insertion of a tube through the urethra and into the urinary bladder
catheter	tube that is inserted into a body cavity to inject or remove fluid
cystotomy	surgical incision into the urinary bladder
erythropoietin	hormone produced by the kidney that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow
retrograde	going backward
retrograde pyelogram	radiographic study of the kidney and ureters in which a contrast material is placed directly into the urinary bladder
urinalysis	examination of the physical and chemical properties of urine
renal failure	inability of the kidney
acute renal failure	sudden onset of the inability of the kidney(s) to function; abbreviated ARF
acute	sudden onset or over a short period
chronic	having a longer onset
chronic renal failure	progressive onset of the inability of the kidney(s) to function; abbreviated CRF
nephrosis	abnormal condition of the kidney(s)
nephropathy	disease of the kidney(s)
nephroptosis	prolapsed kidney
nephritis	inflammation of the kidney
glomerulonephritis	inflammation of the glomeruli
pyelitis	inflammation of the renal pelvis
pyelonephritis	inflammation of the renal pelvis and kidney
calculus	abnormal mineral deposit; plural is calculi
crystals	naturally produced angular solid of definitive form
nephrolith	kidney stone or renal calculus
ureterolith	stone in the ureter
urolith	urinary bladder stone; also called a cystolith or urinary calculus
urolithiasis	disorder characterized by the presence of urinary bladder stones
cystitis	inflammation of the urinary bladder
urinary tract infection	invasion of microorganisms into the urinary system which results in local cellular injury; abbreviated UTI
urethritis	inflammation of the urethra
urinary incontinence	inability to control urine excretion
urine	fluid containing water and waste products filtered through the kidney(s)
inappropriate urination	eliminating urine either at the wrong time or in the wrong place
urinary retention	inability to completely empty the urinary bladder
diuresis	increased excretion of urine
diuretic	substance that increases urine secretion
cystocentesis	surgical puncture of the urinary bladder (to remove fluid)
hematuria	blood in the urine
nephrotoxin	poison having destructive effects on the kidney(s)
turbid	cloudiness
cast	fibrous or protein material found in the urine with renal disease; also external stabilization device for bone fracture repair
specific gravity	measurement that reflects the amount of wastes, minerals, and solids in a substance
cystostomy	surgical creation of a new opening between the skin and urinary bladder
nephrectomy	surgical removal of a kidney
nephrotomy	surgical incision into the kidney
urethrotomy	surgical incision into the urethra
ureterotomy	surgical incision into the ureter
cystectomy	surgical removal of all or part of the urinary bladder
urethrostomy	surgical creation of a permanent opening between urethra and the skin
perineal urethrostomy	surgical creation of a permanent opening between urethra and perineum
brady-	abnormally slow
tachy-	abnormally fast
stetho-	chest
atri/o	atrium
ventricul/o	ventricle
valv/o or valvul/o	membranous fold or valve
angi/o or vas/o	blood or lymph vessels
tensi/o	pressure or tension
aort/o	aorta
coron/o	crown
ech/o	sound
isch/o	holding back
thromb/o	aggregation of blood in a vessel; “clot”
sphygm/o	pulse
man/o	pressure
-stasis	stoppage or control
-oxia	oxygen; oxygenation
-meter	measuring device
cardiovascular	pertaining to the heart and blood vessels
pericardium	double-walled membranous sac enclosing the heart
mediastinum	cavity between the lungs
pericardial fluid	liquid found between the layers of the pericardium
pericardial space	space between the two interior layers of the pericardium
epicardium	external layer of the heart; also part of the inner layer of the pericardial sac
myocardium	the middle and thickest layer of heart muscle
endocardium	inner layer of the heart
occlusion	blockage
necrosis	tissue death
atrium	superior chamber of the heart; plural is atria
septum	separating wall or partition
interatrial	between the atria
ventricle	inferior chamber of the heart; also cavity of the brain
interventricular	between the ventricles
apex	tip
valve	membranous fold
sinoatrial node	collection of muscle fibers in the right atrium where cardiac rhythm is established
tricuspid valve	membranous fold that controls blood flow through the opening between the right atrium and right ventricle; tricuspid means having three points; also called the right atrioventricular valve
pulmonary semilunar valve	membranous fold located between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery; semilunar means half moon
mitral valve	membranous fold located between the left atrium and left ventricle; also termed the bicuspid valve because it is shaped with two points; also called the left atrioventricular valve
aortic semilunar valve	membranous fold located between the left ventricle and the aorta; semilunar means half moon
atrioventricular	the atrium and ventricle
atrioventricular valve	membranous fold located between the superior and inferior chambers of the heart; described as left or right
pulmonary	the lungs
systemic circulation	blood flow to all parts of the body except the lungs
pulmonary circulation	blood flow out of the heart to the lungs and from the lungs to the heart
atrioventricular node	small mass of tissue located in the right atrium that transmits electric impulses from the sinoatrial node to the bundle of His
lumen	opening within a vessel
artery	blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart
aorta	main artery that originates from the left ventricle of the heart
coronary artery	blood vessel that carries blood from the aorta to the myocardium
arterioles	smaller branches of arteries
capillaries	blood vessels only one epithelial cell thick
vein	blood vessel that returns blood to the heart
venules	smaller branches of veins
vena cava	one of two major blood vessels that return blood directly to the heart
pulse	rhythmic expansion and contraction of an artery produced by the pressure of blood flowing through it
blood pressure	measurement of the amount of tension exerted against the walls of the blood vessels
electrocardiogram	record of the electrical activity of the myocardium; also known as ECG or EKG
electrocardiography	process of recording the electrical activity of the myocardium
electrocardiograph	instrument used to produce a record of the electrical activity of the myocardium
sphygmomanometer	instrument used to measure blood pressure
resuscitation	to restore life
echocardiography	diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves to evaluate the heart structures
aortic insufficiency	inability of the aortic valve to perform at the proper levels, which results in blood flowing back into the left ventricle from the aorta
edema	accumulation of fluid in the intercellular spaces
ascites	accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity
pleural effusion	abnormal fluid accumulation between the layers of the membrane encasing the lungs
hemangioma	benign tumor comprised of newly formed blood vessels
infarct	localized area of necrosis caused by an interrupted blood supply
ischemia	deficiency in blood supply
congestive heart failure	syndrome that reflects insufficient cardiac output to meet the body’s needs; abbreviated CHF
carditis	inflammation of the heart
pericarditis	inflammation of the pericardium
myocarditis	inflammation of the myocardium
endocarditis	inflammation of the endocardium
mitral valve prolapse	abnormal protrusion of the left atrioventricular valve, which results in incomplete closure of the valve
mitral valve insufficiency	inability of the left atrioventricular valve to perform at the proper level
murmur	abnormal slushing auscultatory sound that represents abnormal blood flow
dysrhythmia	loss of normal heart rhythm; also called arrhythmia
fibrillation	rapid, random, and ineffective heart contractions
bradycardia	abnormally slow heartbeat
tachycardia	abnormally rapid heartbeat
vasculitis	inflammation of a blood or lymph vessel
hematoma	collection of blood in tissue
thrombus	aggregation of blood attached to the interior wall of a vein or artery; plural is thrombi
thrombosis	abnormal condition in which a thrombus forms within a blood vessel
embolus	mass, aggregation of blood, or collection of air forced from one vessel to a smaller one resulting in obstruction; plural is emboli
embolism	blockage of a vessel due to a foreign object (for example, fat or air)
defibrillation	use of electrical shock to restore the normal heart rhythm
transfusion	introduction of whole blood or blood components into the bloodstream of the recipient
hemostasis	control or stoppage of bleeding
tourniquet	constricting band applied to a limb to control bleeding or to assist in drawing blood
systole	contraction (of the heart ventricles)
diastole	dilation (of the heart ventricles)
vasoconstrictor	substance that narrows the blood vessels
vasodilator	substance that widens the blood vessels
antiarrhythmia drug	substance that controls heartbeat irregularities
anticoagulant	substance that slows and prevents blood clotting
antihypertensive	substance that lowers blood pressure
insufficiency	inability to perform at proper level of function
iatrogenic	produced by treatment
hypertension	abnormally high blood pressure
hypotension	abnormally low blood pressure
anomaly	deviation from normal
cardiac	pertaining to the heart
cardiomyopathy	disease of heart muscle
asystole	without contraction; lack of heart activity
regurgitation	backflow; in the cardiovascular system used to describe backflow of blood due to imperfect closure of heart valves
syncope	temporary suspension of respiration and circulation; commonly called fainting
cardiomegaly	heart enlargement
hypertrophy	excessive size
thoracic	the chest
cyanosis	a bluish tinge to the skin and mucous membranes due to below-normal oxygen levels
hypoxia	below normal oxygen levels
auscultation	listening to body sounds (usually involves the use of a stethoscope)
stethoscope	instrument used to listen to body sounds
perfusion	blood flow through tissue
constriction	to narrow
congenital	present at birth
prophylaxis	prevention
shock	inadequate tissue perfusion

aer-	air or gas
pneu-	lungs or air
sept/o	partition
epiglott/o	epiglottis
laryng/o	larynx
cost/o	rib
tuss/i	cough
olfact/o	to smell
sinus/o	air-filled or fluid-filled cavity within a bone; also means channel
thorac/o or steth/o	chest
bronchi/o	bronchus
bronchiol/o	bronchiole
alveol/o	alveoli
lob/o	lobe
pneum/o, pneumon/o, or pneu	lungs or air
pulm/o or pulmon/o	lung
pleur/o	pleura
phragm/o	wall
phren/o or diaphragmat/o	diaphragm
capn/o	carbon dioxide
spir/o	breath or breathing
ox/i, ox/o, or ox/y	oxygen; also means quick or sharp
cyan/o	blue
-pnea	breathing
-ole	small
-thorax	chest or cavity
respiratory system	the system that brings oxygen from the air into the body for delivery via the blood to the cells
upper respiratory tract	part of the respiratory system that consists of the nose, mouth, pharynx, epiglottis, and larynx
lower respiratory tract	part of the respiratory system that consists of the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli
naris	opening of the nasal cavity; nostril; plural is nares
mucous membrane	specialized form of epithelial tissue that secretes mucus; note spelling when mucus is used as an adjective
mucus	slimelike substance that is composed of glandular secretion, salts, cells, and leukocytes
cilia	thin hairs or eyelashes; singular is cilium
tonsil	lymphatic tissue that protects nasal cavity and upper throat
pharynx	the throat
palate	roof of the mouth
nasopharynx	portion of throat posterior to the nasal cavity and above the soft palate
oropharynx	portion of the throat between the soft palate and epiglottis
laryngopharynx	portion of the throat that opens into the voice box and esophagus below the epiglottis
glottis	vocal apparatus; consists of vocal folds and the opening between them
larynx	voice box; part of respiratory tract between the pharynx and trachea
trachea	windpipe; structure that carries air from the oral cavity to the bronchi
bronchus	branch of trachea going to the lung; plural is bronchi
bronchiole	smallest branch of a bronchus; also called bronchiolus; plural is broncioli
epiglottis	lidlike cartilage covering the larynx
alveoli	small grapelike clusters of air sacs found at the end of each bronchiole; oxygen exchange units; singular is alveolus
lung	main organ of respiration
lobe	well-defined portion of an organ
pleura	multilayered membrane that covers the lung; plural is pleruae
vocal cords	two pairs of membranous bands in the larynx
pleural space	airtight area containing lubricating fluid located between the folds of the pleura; also called pleural cavity
diaphragm	muscle separating the chest and abdomen
diaphragmatic hernia	an abnormal displacement of organs through the muscle separating the chest and abdomen
phrenic nerve	nerve that stimulates the diaphragm
olfactory	pertaining to smell
intercostal	between the ribs
nasogastric	pertaining to the nose and stomach
nasogastric tube	tube that passes through the nose to the stomach
debris	remains of something destroyed or damaged
bifurcation	dividing in two
patent	open, unobstructed, or not closed
primary	first in order or main cause
secondary	second in order or resulting from another (primary) process
tertiary	third in order
terminal	the end
ducts	passage with well-defined walls
respiration	diffusion of gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) between the atmosphere and the cells of the body
hypercapnia	excessive amounts of carbon dioxide in the blood
hypocapnia	decreased amounts of carbon dioxide in the blood
inhalation	act of breathing in; also called inspiration
exhalation	act of breathing out; also called expiration
respiratory rate	number of respirations (one inhalation and one exhalation) per minute; abbreviated RR
respirations	one inhalation and one exhalation
phlegm	thick mucus secreted by the respiratory lining
sputum	mucus secretion from the lower respiratory tract
laryngoscopy	endoscopic examination of the voice box
laryngoscope	instrument used to visually examine the voice box
thoracocentesis	puncture of the chest wall with a needle to obtain fluid or air from the pleural cavity
apnea	without or absence of breathing
dyspnea	difficult or labored breathing
bradypnea	abnormally slow respiratory rates
tachypnea	abnormally rapid respiratory rates
hyperventilation	abnormally rapid deep breathing
ventilation	the intake of fresh air
agonal breathing	respirations near death or during extreme suffering
cough	sudden noisy expulsion of air from the lungs
asphyxiation	interruption of breathing resulting in lack of oxygen; also called suffocation
aspiration	inhalation of a foreign substance into the upper respiratory tract
surfactant	liquid that reduces surface tension of the lungs
hypoxia	below normal oxygen levels
cyanosis	abnormal condition of blue discoloration
adventitious sounds	pathological respiratory sounds; examples are rhonchi and rales
rale	abnormal, discrete rattle, crackle, or other noise heard during inspiration; also called crackles
rhonchus	abnormal, continuous, musical, whistling sound heard during inspiration or expiration; also called wheeze; plural is rhonchi
sinusitis	inflammation of a sinus
inflammation	localized protective response to destroy, dilute, or wall off injury
sinus	an air-filled or fluid-filled space
recurrent airway obstruction	general term for abnormal conditions in equine species in which expiratory flow is slowed; abbreviated RAO; commonly called heaves and formerly called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
epistaxis	nosebleed
pharyngitis	inflammation of the throat
laryngitis	inflammation of the voice box
laryngospasm	sudden fluttering and/or closure of the voice box
tracheitis	inflammation of the windpipe
tracheobronchitis	inflammation of the trachea and bronchi
asthma	chronic allergic disorder
bronchitis	inflammation of the bronchi
pulmonary edema	accumulation of fluid in lung tissue
atelectasis	incomplete expansion of the alveoli or collapse of alveoli resulting from resorption of air
pleurisy	inflammation of the pleura; also called pleuritis
pneumothorax	accumulation of air or gas in the pleural space
effusion	fluid escaping from blood or lymphatic vessels into tissues or spaces
pleural effusion	abnormal accumulation of fluid in the airtight space between the folds of the pleura; note that a small amount of lubricating fluid in this space is normal
hemothorax	accumulation of blood in the pleural cavity
pneumonia	abnormal condition of the lung (usually involves inflammation and congestion of the lung)
congestion	abnormal accumulation of fluid
bronchopneumonia	abnormal condition of the bronchi and lung (usually involves inflammation and congestion of the bronchi and lung)
pleuropneumonia	abnormal condition of the pleura and the lung (usually involves inflammation and congestion)
asphyxia	abnormal condition resulting from lack of oxygen intake
interstitial	space within a tissue or organ
antitussive	substance used to control coughs
tracheoplasty	surgical repair of the windpipe
tracheotomy	surgical incision into the windpipe
tracheostomy	surgical creation of an opening into the windpipe (usually involves insertion and placement of a tube)
endotracheal intubation	passage of a tube through the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx into the windpipe
lobectomy	surgical removal of a lobe (lobe of lung, liver, or any well-defined area)
thoracotomy	surgical incision into the chest wall
percussion	diagnostic procedure used to determine density in which sound is produced by tapping various body surfaces with the finger or an instrument (the sound produced over the chest where air is present varies from an area where fluid is present)
chest tube	hollow device inserted into the thoracic cavity to remove fluid or gas

erythem/o	redness
ungul/o	hoof
onych/o	claw
alopec/o	baldness
carcin/o	cancerous
fistul/o	tube or pipe
papill/o or papill/i	nipplelike
sarc/o	flesh or malignancy of connective tissue
melan/o	black
lip/o or adip/o	fat
seb/o	oily substance produced in the dermis
pil/o, pil/i, or trich/o	hair
bi/o	life
py/o	pus
cry/o	cold
-derma	skin
-opsy	view of
integumentary system	body system that consists of the skin, hair, nails, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands
epidermis	outermost layer of skin
dermis	true skin; also called the corium
epithelium	covering of external and internal body surfaces; also called epithelial tissue
keratin	protein that provides skin with its waterproofing properties
melanocyte	cell that contains black pigment
melanin	black pigment found in skin
albinism	absence of normal pigment
nail or claw	keratin plates covering the dorsal surface of the distal phalanx
corium	true skin; also called dermis
collagen	flexible, fibrous protein; “glue”
perception	ability to recognize sensory stimulus
subcutaneous layer	under the dermis; also called hypodermis
adipocyte	fat cell
atopy	hypersensitivity reaction in animals involving pruritus with secondary dermatitis; commonly called allergies or allergic dermatitis
carcinoma	malignant neoplasm of epithelial tissue
sebaceous gland	dermally located gland that secretes sebum
sebum	oily substance produced by dermally located glands
sweat gland	dermally located gland that produces and secretes sweat
sweat	substance that is comprised of water, salt, and waste produced by glands located in the dermis that regulates temperature and excretes waste
arrector pilus	a tiny muscle that causes hair to stand up attached to the hair follicle; plural is arrector pili
seborrhea	skin condition characterized by overproduction of sebum (oil)
hair follicles	tubes that hold the hair fibers
foot pad	structure that provides cushioning and protection for the bones of the foot
sebaceous cyst	closed sac of yellow, fatty material
cyst	closed sac containing fluid or semisolid material
alopecia	hair loss resulting in hairless patches or complete lack of hair
shedding	normal hair loss
lesion	pathologic change of tissue
scale	flake
crust	collection of dried serum and cell debris
abscess	localized collection of pus
laceration	accidental cut into skin
ulcer	focal loss of skin or mucous membrane
decubital ulcer	focal loss of skin or mucous membrane as a result of prolonged pressure; also called bedsore
fistula	abnormal passage from an internal organ to the body surface or between two internal organs; plural is fistulae
flea allergy dermatitis	inflammation of the skin caused by an allergic reaction to flea saliva; abbreviated FAD
infestation	occupation and dwelling of a parasite on the external surface of tissue
ectoparasite	parasite that lives on the external surface
pediculosis	lice infestation
myiasis	infestation by fly larvae
dermatitis	inflammation of the skin (dermis)
pruritus	itchiness
urticaria	localized area of swelling that itches; also called hives; plural is urticariae
erythema	skin redness
louse	a type of parasitic insect; plural is lice
maggot	fly larva especially found in dead or decaying tissue
melanoma	tumor or growth of pigmented skin cells
pallor	skin paleness
sarcoma	malignant neoplasm of soft tissue arising from connective tissue
cellulitis	inflammation of connective tissue
diffuse	widespread
localized	within a well-defined area
pyoderma	skin disease containing pus
mange	common term for skin disease caused by mites
pus	inflammatory product made up of leukocytes, cell debris, and fluid
purulent	producing or containing pus
dermatomycosis	abnormal skin condition due to growth of a superficial fungus; also called dermatophytosis
dermatophyte	superficial fungus found on the skin
gangrene	necrosis associated with loss of circulation
eczema	general term for inflammatory skin disease characterized by erythema, papules, vesicles, crusts, and scabs either alone or in combination
putrefaction	foul-smelling decay
granuloma	a type of circumscribed inflammatory reaction, resulting in a nodule
skin tag	small growth that hangs from the body by a stalk
papilloma	benign epithelial growth that is lobed, raised, fleshy, or warty; also known as a wart or fibropapilloma
lipoma	benign growth of fat cells; also called fatty tumor
cauterization	destruction of tissue using electric current, heat, or chemicals
cryosurgery	destruction of tissue using extreme cold
laser	device that transfers light into an intense beam for various purposes; acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation
intradermal	within the true skin
erythematous	redness
piloerection	hair standing upright
allergen	substance that produces allergic response
quick	dermis under the nail or hoof that has a blood supply and is sensitive
quicking	trimming the nail or claw to the level of the dermis that results in bleeding and pain
hyposensitization	decreased response to an allergen
hypersensitization	increased response to an allergen
horn	keratinized permanent structure originating from the skull; also used in reference to any keratinized tissue (nails, hooves)
hooves	the horny covering of the distal phalanx in ungulates
antler	deciduous, ossified protrusion originating from the skull
polled	naturally hornless
exfoliative	falling off or sloughing
hyperthermia	increased body temperature
hypothermia	decreased body temperature
cerumen	Earwax
ceruminous glands	modified sweat glands located in the ear canal that produce earwax
acne	skin inflammation caused by plugged sebaceous glands and blackhead development
acute moist dermatitis	bacterial skin disease that is worsened by licking and scratching; also called hot spot
scar	mark left by a healing lesion where excess collagen was produced to replace injured tissue
necrotic	dead tissue
necrosis	abnormal condition of dead tissue
dermatology	study of the skin
lance	to open or pierce with a lancet (scalpel blade) to allow drainage
debridement	removal of tissue and foreign material to aid healing
incisional biopsy	removal of a piece of a tumor or lesion for examination
excisional biopsy	removal of an entire tumor or lesion in addition to a margin of surrounding tissue for examination
excision	cut out of skin
needle biopsy	insertion of a sharp instrument (needle) into a tissue for examination
punch biopsy	type of incisional biopsy commonly used to obtain full-thickness skin samples
exfoliative cytology	scraping of cells from tissue and examination under a microscope
intradermal skin testing	injection of test substances into the skin layer to observe a reaction
skin scrape	microscopic examination of skin for the presence of mites; skin is sampled by scraping a scalpel blade across an area that is squeezed or raised so that the sample contains a deep skin sample
culture	diagnostic or research procedure used to allow microbes to reproduce in predetermined media (nutrient source)
eu-	good, well, or easily
crin/o	secrete or separate
pituit/o	pituitary gland
somat/o	body
lact/o or lact/i	milk
thyr/o or thyroid/o	thyroid gland
parathyr/o	parathyroid gland
adren/o or adrenal/o	adrenal glands
andr/o	male
ket/o	ketones (or by-products of fat metabolism)
thym/o	thymus
pineal/o	pineal gland
-crine	to secrete or separate, affinity for
hormone	organ-produced chemical substance that is transported by the bloodstream to regulate the activity of another organ; literally means “to set in motion”
endocrine	secreting internally (into the bloodstream)
steroid	common term for hormone or medication that controls metabolism, inflammation, immune function, salt and water balance, development of sexual characteristics, and ability to withstand illness
endocrinopathy	disease of hormone-producing system
pituitary gland	gland that responds to hypothalamic stimuli located at the base of the brain; function is to maintain appropriate blood levels of hormones
hypophysis	pituitary gland
hypothalamus	portion of the brain located below the thalamus that regulates hormone release
euthyroidism	condition of normal thyroid function
hypothyroidism	abnormal condition of deficient thyroid secretion resulting in decreased metabolic rate, lethargy, and increased sensitivity to cold
hyperthyroidism	abnormal condition of excessive thyroid secretion resulting in increased metabolic rate and autonomic nervous system disturbances
thyromegaly	enlargement of the thyroid gland
thyroidectomy	surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland
chemical thyroidectomy	administration of radioactive iodine to suppress thyroid function; also called radioactive iodine therapy.
lobectomy	surgical removal of a lobe or well-defined portion of an organ
thyroid gland	butterfly-shaped gland with the right and left lobes fused ventrally by an isthmus that regulates metabolism, iodine uptake, and blood calcium levels.
parathyroid gland	four glands located on the surface of the thyroid gland that help regulate blood calcium levels
hypocalcemia	abnormally low blood calcium levels
hypercalcemia	abnormally high blood calcium levels
adrenal gland	gland that secretes hormones that regulate electrolytes, metabolism, sexual function, and the body’s response to injury; located near the kidney
adrenal cortex	outer portion of the adrenal gland
adrenal medulla	inner portion of the adrenal gland
hypoadrenocorticism	disorder caused by deficient adrenal cortex production of glucocorticoid; also called Addison’s disease
hyperadrenocorticism	disorder caused by excessive adrenal cortex production of glucocorticoid; also called Cushing’s disease
adrenalectomy	surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands
pancreas	gland located near the proximal duodenum that has both exocrine (digestive enzymes) and endocrine (insulin) functions
islets of Langerhans	specialized pancreatic cells that secrete insulin, glucagon, and pancreatic polypeptide
insulin	pancreatic origin or synthetic hormone that transports blood glucose into body cells
glucagon	pancreatic hormone that increases blood glucose
pancreatitis	inflammation of the pancreas
hyperglycemia	abnormally elevated blood glucose
hypoglycemia	abnormally low blood glucose
ketone	byproduct of fat metabolism
acidosis	abnormal condition of low body pH
thymus	immunologic functioning gland found predominantly in young animals located near midline in the cranioventral portion of the thoracic cavity
pineal gland	gland that secretes hormones that affect circadian rhythm and other unknown functions located in the central portion of the brain
gonad	gamete-producing gland (ovaries in females and testes in males)
gamete	sex cell; also called germ cell
assay	laboratory technique used to determine the amount of a particular substance in a sample
diabetes mellitus	metabolic disorder of inadequate secretion of insulin or recognition of insulin by the body, resulting in increased urination, drinking, and weight loss
ketoacidosis	abnormal condition of low pH accompanied by ketones (by-products of fat metabolism)

pseud/o	false
perine/o	region between the scrotum or vulva and anus
sperm/o or spermat/o	spermatozoa
semin/i	semen or sperm
pen/i or priap/o	penis
colp/o or vagin/o	vagina
cervic/o	neck
vulv/o or episi/o	vulva
ejaculat/o	throwing or to hurl out
fet/i or fet/o	unborn animal
umbilic/o	navel
gest/o or gestat/o	gestation
pregn/o	pregnancy
part/o	giving birth
lute/o	yellow
vas/o	vas deferens (human term for ductus deferens)
crypt/o	hidden
copulat/o or coit/o	joining together
mamm/o or mast/o	mammary gland
oo/o, ov/i, or ov/o	egg
prostat/o	prostate gland
epididym/o	epididymis
genit/o	organs of reproduction
scrot/o	scrotum
reproductive system	body system that is responsible for producing offspring; includes both male- and female-specific organs to complete offspring production
reproduction	act of producing offspring
scrotum	external sac that encloses and supports the testes; also called scrotal sac
perineum	region between the scrotum or vulva and anus
testis	male gonad that produces spermatozoa; also called testicle; plural is testes
gonad	sex gland
spermatozoon	male sex cell or gamete; plural is spermatozoa; also called sperm
epididymis	tube at the upper part of each testis that secretes parts of semen, stores sperm before ejaculation, and provides a passageway for sperm out of the testis
vas deferens	tube that carries sperm into the pelvic region towards the urethra; human term for ductus deferens
ductus deferens	excretory duct at the end of the epididymis
seminal vesicle	gland that opens into the ductus deferens as it joins the urethra
semen	ejaculatory fluid that contains sperm plus secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands (if present in species)
prostate gland	gland that secretes a thick fluid that aids in motility of sperm surrounding the urethra
bulbourethral glands	glands located on either side of the urethra that secrete a thick fluid that aids in motility of sperm; also called Cowper’s glands; not present in canine
penis	male sex organ that carries reproductive and urinary products out of the body
prepuce	retractable fold of skin covering the glans penis; also called foreskin
ovary	female gonad that produces eggs and estrogen
ovum	female gamete; egg; plural is ova
graafian follicles	small sacs on ovaries; each sac contains a single ovum
uterine tubes	tubes that extend from the uterus to the ovary
uterus	muscular-walled, hollow organ of the female reproductive tract that houses and nourishes the embryo and fetus
cervix	neck; in relation to the reproductive tract cervix is the neck of the uterus
vagina	muscular tube lined with mucosa that extends from the cervix to outside the body
hymen	membranous fold of tissue that partly or completely covers that external vaginal orifice
orifice	entrance or outlet from a body cavity
genitalia	reproductive organs; also called genitals
vulva	female external genitalia
labia	the fleshy borders or edges of the vulva
mammary glands	milk-producing gland in females; also called udder or breast or mammae
lactiferous duct	tube that carries milk to the nipple
teat	nipple, especially of ruminants
quarter	section of udder; one-fourth of udder
ovulation	process of egg maturation and release
corpus luteum	ruptured graafian follicle that takes on a yellow fatty substance after ovulation
coitus or copulation	sexual intercourse
fertilization	union of ovum and sperm
conception	beginning of a new individual resulting from fertilization
zygote	fertilized egg
oocyte	egg cell
implantation	attachment and embedding of the zygote within the uterus
intromission	insertion of the penis into the vagina
ejaculate	to release semen during copulation
fetus	unborn animal
placenta	female organ of mammals that develops during pregnancy; it joins mother and offspring for exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products; also called afterbirth
umbilicus	structure that forms on the abdominal wall where the umbilical cord was connected to the fetus; also called navel
umbilical cord	structure that forms where the fetus communicates with the placenta
gestation	period of development of the fetus in the uterus (conception to birth)
pregnancy	condition of having a developing fetus in the uterus
estrous cycle	reproductive phases beginning at puberty that vary at regular intervals to prepare the uterus to receive a fertilized ovum
ectopic pregnancy	fertilized ovum implanted outside the uterus
viable	capable of living outside the mother
parturition	act of giving birth; also called labor
antepartum	before onset of labor
presentation	portion of fetus that can be touched during labor
delivery	expulsion of fetus
postpartum	after delivery
uterine involution	return to normal size of the muscular-walled, hollow organ that houses and nourishes the fetus
colostrum	fluid secreted from mammary glands during pregnancy and for the first few days postpartum
lactation	process of forming and secreting milk
ovarian cyst	collection of fluid or solid material within the female gonad
metritis	inflammation of the uterus
benign prostatic hypertrophy	abnormal noncancerous enlargement of the prostate; also called prostatomegaly or enlarged prostate
vaginitis	inflammation of the vagina
mastitis	inflammation of the mammary gland(s)
pyometra	pus in the uterus
dystocia	difficult birth
orchitis	inflammation of the testes; also called testitis
pseudopregnancy	not carrying fetus but demonstrates maternal behavior and characteristics; also called false pregnancy
retained placenta	nonpassage of the placenta after delivery of the fetus
vaginal prolapse	protrusion of the vagina through the vulva usually due to pressure from the fetus during parturition
uterine prolapse	condition in which the uterus has exteriorized through the lips of the vulva; also called prolapsed uterus
epididymitis	inflammation of the epididymis
prostatitis	inflammation of the prostate gland, which surrounds the urethra, the prostate secretes a thick fluid that aids in motility of sperm
motile	capable of active motion
sterility	inability to reproduce
cryptorchidism	developmental defect in which one or both testes fails to descend into the scrotum; also termed undescended testicle(s)
mastectomy	surgical removal of the mammary gland or breast
assisted delivery	manual use of hands or equipment to aid in delivery of a fetus. In cattle, obstetric chains may be placed around the calf’s legs and then force is applied to help extract the fetus
cesarean section	delivery of offspring through an incision in the maternal abdominal and uterine wall; also called C-section
episiotomy	surgical incision of the perineum and vagina to facilitate delivery of the fetus and prevent damage to maternal structures
ovariohysterectomy	surgical removal of the ovaries, oviducts, and uterus; also called spay; abbreviated OHE or OVH
hysterectomy	surgical removal of the uterus
orchidectomy	surgical removal of the testis (testes); also called orchectomy or orchiectomy
castration	surgical removal of testes
neuter	to sexually alter an animal; usually implies male sexual alteration
libido	sexual desire
vasectomy	sterilization of a male in which a portion of the vas deferens is surgically removed yet the animal may retain its libido

para-	in reference to neurologic conditions of quadrupeds; para- implies hind or back portion
idio-	individual
ipsi-	same
contra-	opposite or against
dendr/o	branching
ax/o	axis or mainstream
synaps/o or synapt/o	connection
gli/o	glue
mening/o or meningi/o	meninges
cerebr/o	cerebrum
cerebell/o	cerebellum
contus/o	bruise
poli/o	gray
crani/o	skull
-esthesia	sensation or feeling
central nervous system	portion of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord; abbreviated CNS
peripheral nervous system	portion of the nervous system that consists of the cranial and spinal nerves; abbreviated PNS
autonomic nervous system	portion of the peripheral nervous system that consists of nerves that control involuntary action; abbreviated ANS
nerve	one or more bundles of impulse-carrying fibers that connect the central nervous system to the other parts of the body
reflex	autonomic, involuntary response to change
neuron	basic unit of the nervous system
dendrites	rootlike structures of the neuron that receive impulses and conduct them toward the cell body
axon	structure of the neuron that extends away from the cell body and conducts impulses away from the nerve cell
neurotransmitter	chemical substance that allows impulse to move across the synapse from one neuron to another
synapse	nerve impulse transfer point between two neurons or between a neuron and receptor
neuroglia	supportive cells of the nervous system; also called glial cells; consist of astrocytes, microglia, oligodendroglia, and Schwann cells
myelin	protective covering over some nerve cells; present in parts of the spinal cord, white matter of the brain, and most peripheral nerves; also called myelin sheath
meninges	three layers of connective tissue membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord
cerebrospinal fluid	clear, colorless liquid that nourishes, cools, and cushions the brain and spinal cord; abbreviated CSF
cerebrum	largest portion of the brain responsible for receiving and processing stimuli, initiating voluntary movement, and storing information
ventricle	small cavity; animals have a third, fourth, and lateral ventricle
cerebellum	second largest part of brain that coordinates muscle activity for smooth movement
brainstem	stalklike part of the brain connecting the cerebral hemispheres with the spinal cord and includes the pons, medulla oblongata, midbrain, and interbrain
spinal cord	caudal continuation of the medulla oblongata that carries all of the tracts that influence the innervation of the limbs and lower part of the body and is the pathway for impulses going to and from the brain
nodes of Ranvier	areas along a myelinated nerve where ionic exchange takes place
choroid plexus	vascular folds of the pia mater in the third, fourth, and lateral ventricles of the brain that secrete cerebrospinal fluid
intervertebral disc	layers of fibrocartilage that form pads separating and cushioning the vertebrae from each other
intervertebral disc disease	condition of pain and neurologic deficits resulting from the displacement of part or all of the material in the disc located between the vertebrae; abbreviated IVDD
cranium	portion of the skull that encloses and protects the brain
intracranial	within the cranium
sympathetic nervous system	autonomic nervous system portion that prepares the body for stressful and emergency situations
parasympathetic nervous system	autonomic nervous system portion that returns the body to normal after stressful or emergency situations
myelography	diagnostic study of the spinal cord after injection of contrast material into the subarachnoid space
myelogram	record of the spinal cord after injection of contrast material into the subarachnoid space
encephalomyelitis	inflammation of the brain and spinal cord
encephalopathy	disease of the brain
conscious proprioceptive deficit	neurologic defect in which the animal appears to not know where its limbs are
meningioma	benign tumor of the meninges (usually originates from the arachnoid)
meningoencephalomyelitis	inflammation of the meninges, brain, and spinal cord
meningoencephalitis	inflammation of the meninges and brain
myelitis	inflammation of the spinal cord or bone marrow
myelopathy	disease of the spinal cord or bone marrow
polyneuritis	inflammation of many nerves
ictus	attack; period of an actual seizure
preictal	period before a seizure; also called aura
postictal	period after a seizure
vestibular disease	neurologic disorder characterized by head tilt, nystagmus, rolling, falling, and circling
nystagmus	involuntary, rhythmic movement of the eye
contralateral	opposite side
ipsilateral	same side
idiopathic	unknown cause; disease peculiar to an individual; not likely to be seen in others
analgesia	without pain
paralysis	immobility or loss of motor function
ataxia	without coordination; “stumbling”
disorientation	condition in which the animal appears mentally confused
anesthesia	absence of sensation
anesthetic	substance used to induce loss of sensation
conscious	awake, aware, and responsive; also known as alert
stupor	impaired consciousness with unresponsiveness to stimuli
coma	deep state of unconsciousness
obtunded	depressed
meningitis	inflammation of the meninges
encephalitis	inflammation of the brain
hematoma	mass or collection of blood
epidural hematoma	mass or collection of blood above or superficial to the dura mater
subdural hematoma	mass or collection of blood below the dura mater and above the arachnoid membrane
poliomyelitis	inflammation of the gray matter of the spinal cord
demyelination	destruction or loss of myelin
neuritis	inflammation of the nerve(s)
tremor	involuntary trembling
seizure	sudden, violent, involuntary contraction of muscles caused by a brain disturbance; also called convulsion
epilepsy	recurrent seizures of nonsystemic origin
grand mal seizure	convulsions characterized by loss of consciousness and muscle contractions; also called tonic-clonic seizures
soma	cell body
cranial nerves	twelve pairs of nerves that originate from the undersurface of the brain and are generally named for the area or function they serve; each is represented by a Roman numeral
spinal nerves	nerves that arise from the spinal cord and supply sensory and motor fibers to the body region associated with their emergence from the spinal cord
disc fenestration	removal of intervertebral disc by perforation and scraping out of its contents
cerebrospinal fluid tap	removal of the fluid surrounding the central nervous system; also called CSF tap
tomography	recording of the internal body structures at predetermined planes that produces three-dimensional images
computed axial tomography	procedure in which ionizing radiation with computer assistance passes through the patient and shows the internal body structures in cross-sectional views; also called a CT scan or CAT scan
magnetic resonance imaging	procedure in which radio waves and a strong magnetic field pass through the patient and show the internal body structures in three-dimensional views; abbreviated MRI
cervical vertebral malformation	abnormal formation or instability of the caudal cervical vertebrae that causes ataxia and incoordination; seen more often in horses and dogs; also called wobbler’s syndrome
pupillary light reflex	response of pupil to a bright light source; light is shone in one eye, and that eye (direct) and the opposite eye (consensual) should constrict; abbreviated PLR
contusion	bruising
lacrim/o or dacry/o	tear drop
blephar/o	eyelid
canth/o	corner of the eye
conjunctiv/o	conjunctiva
choroid/o	choroid
scler/o	sclera
corne/o or kerat/o	cornea
ir/i, ir/o, irid/o, or irit/o	iris
pupill/o or core/o	pupil
phac/o	lens
ophthalmo/o, opt/o, ocul/o, optic/o, or opt/i	eye or sight
retin/o	retina
aque/o	water
vitre/o	glassy
audit/o, aud/i, or ot/o	ear
acoust/o or acous/o	hearing or sound
aur/i or aur/o	external ear
pinn/i	external ear
tympan/o or myring/o	ear drum
adnexa	accessory structures of an organ
ocular	eye
ocular system	body system responsible for vision
eye	receptor organ for sight
extraocular	outside the eyeball
intraocular	inside the eyeball
orbit	bony cavity of the skull that contains the eyeball
binocular	both eyes
canthus	angle where the upper and lower eyelids meet; corner of the eye; plural is canthi
medial canthus	corner of the eye nearest the nose; also called inner canthus
lateral canthus	corner of the eye farthest away from the nose; also called the outer canthus
conjunctiva	mucous membrane that lines the underside of each eyelid; covers much of the exposed surface of the eyeball when eyelid is closed
lacrimal gland	gland that secretes tears
lacrimation	condition of normal tear secretion
nasolacrimal duct	passageway that drains tears into the nose
globe	sphere; term used to describe the eyeball; also known as the orb
sclera	fibrous outer layer of the eye that maintains the shape of the eye; also known as the white of the eye
cornea	transparent anterior portion of the sclera that provides most of the focusing power of the eye
choroid	opaque middle layer of the eyeball that contains blood vessels and supplies blood for the entire eye; contains the iris, pupil, lens, and ciliary muscles
opaque	condition of not being able to pass light through
iris	pigmented muscular layer that surrounds the pupil; part of the choroid
pupil	circular opening in the center of the iris
mydriasis	pupillary dilation
dilation	to make opening larger/wider
miosis	pupillary constriction
constriction	to narrow
lens	clear, flexible, avascular, curved capsule located posterior (behind) the iris and pupil
ciliary muscles	fibers that adjust the shape and thickness of the lens
retina	nervous layer of the eye that receives images and lines the posterior chamber of the eye
ciliary body	thickened extension of the choroid that assists in accommodation or adjustment of the lens
optic disk	region in the eye where nerve endings of the retina gather to form the optic nerve
fovea centralis	small depression located in the macula where vision is the sharpest
anterior chamber	aqueous-containing space located in the eye behind the cornea and in front of the iris
posterior chamber	aqueous-containing space located in the eye between the iris and the lens
anterior segment	cranial one-third of the eyeball that is divided into anterior and posterior chamber
humor	any clear body liquid
aqueous humor	fluid that nourishes the intraocular structures in anterior segment (anterior and posterior chamber)
vitreous humor	soft, clear, jellylike mass that fills the vitreous chamber
vitreous chamber	cavity in the posterior two-thirds of the eyeball
accommodation	process of eye adjustments for seeing objects at various distances
refraction	process of the lens bending the light rays to help them focus on the retina; also called focusing
fluorescein dye stain	diagnostic test to detect corneal injury by placing dye on the surface of the cornea
tonometry	procedure using an instrument to measure intraocular pressure indirectly
blepharitis	inflammation of the eyelid
conjunctivitis	inflammation of the conjunctiva
nystagmus	involuntary, constant, rhythmic movement of the eye
scleritis	inflammation of the sclera
keratitis	inflammation of the cornea
iritis	inflammation of the iris
cataract	cloudiness or opacity of the lens
glaucoma	group of disorders resulting from elevated intraocular pressure
retinopathy	any disorder of the retina
retinal detachment	separation of the nervous layer of the eye from the choroid; also called detached retina
blindness	inability to see
periocular	around the eyeball
palpebral	pertaining to the eyelid
palpebra	eyelid; plural is palpebrae
keratoconjunctivitis	inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva
keratoconjunctivitis sicca	inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva due to a tear deficiency and can lead to persistent, mucopurulent discharge and corneal ulceration and scarring; also called dry eye; abbreviated KCS
nictating membrane prolapse	hypertrophy and protrusion of the conjunctival fold of the medial canthus; occurs in puppies and more commonly in some breeds of dog; also called cherry eye or third eyelid prolapse
enucleation	removal of the eyeball
nictitating membrane	conjunctival fold attached at the medial canthus that moves across the cornea when the eyelids close; also called the third eyelid or nictitans
stroma	supporting tissue of an organ
corneal ulceration	surface depression on the cornea
orb	eyeball
scleral injection	dilation of blood vessels into the sclera
periorbita	eye socket
palpebral reflex	diagnostic test in which the eye should blink in response to touch to the medial canthus of the eye; used to make neurologic assessment of cranial nerves V and VII and to assess depth of anesthesia
Schirmer tear test	diagnostic test using a graded paper strip to measure tear production
keratectomy	surgical removal of part of the cornea
keratocentesis	puncture of the cornea to allow for aspiration of aqueous humor
menace response	diagnostic test to detect vision in which movement is made toward the animal to test if it will see movement and try to close its eyelids
ophthalmoscope	instrument used to examine the interior eye structures
ophthalmoscopy	procedure to examine the interior eye structures; may be direct or indirect
auditory	pertaining to the ear
acoustic	pertaining to sound
otic	pertaining to the ear
aural	pertaining to the ear
otoscope	instrument used to examine the ear
otoscopy	procedure used to examine the ear for parasites, irritation to the ear lining, discharge, and the integrity of the tympanic membrane
pinna	external portion of the ear; also called auricle
external auditory canal	passageway or tube that transmits sound from the pinna to the tympanic membrane; also known as the external auditory meatus
auris	ear
sensorineural conduction	mechanism of hearing that involves the nerve impulse that is relayed to the brain
cerumen	earwax
tympanic membrane	tissue that separates external ear from the middle ear and transmits sounds to the ossicles; also called eardrum
auditory ossicles	three little bones of the middle ear that transmit sound vibrations
malleus	auditory ossicle known as the hammer
incus	auditory ossicle known as the anvil
stapes	auditory ossicle known as the stirrup
eustachian tube	narrow duct that leads from the middle ear to the nasopharynx; helps equalizes air pressure in the middle ear with that of the atmosphere; also called auditory tube
oval window	membrane that separates the middle and inner ear
equilibrium	state of balance
bulla	large vesicle
tympanic bulla	osseous chambers that house the middle ear at the base of the skull
round window	membrane that receives sound waves through fluid after it has passed through the cochlea
cytology	the study of cells; for the ear it involves taking a sample of exudate or cerumen from the horizontal ear canal with a cotton-tipped applicator, rolling it on a microscope slide, staining it, and examining it under a microscope; used to detect bacteria, yeast, leukocytes or abnormal cells
otitis	inflammation of the ear; usually has second term that describes location
otitis externa	inflammation of the outer ear
otitis media	inflammation of the middle ear
otitis interna	inflammation of the inner ear
aural hematoma	collection or mass of blood on the outer ear
vertigo	sense of dizziness
deafness	complete or partial hearing loss
otoplasty	surgical repair of the ear
ablation	removal of a part by cutting; used in reference to salvaging the ear canal

thromb/o	coagulated blood in a vessel; “clot”
immun/o	protected
lymph/o	lymph fluid, vessels, and nodes
onc/o	tumor
carcin/o	cancer
sarc/o	flesh or malignancy of connective tissue
-cyte	cell
-cytosis	condition of cell; implies increased cell numbers
-lytic	to reduce or destroy
blood	fluid that circulates through the heart and vessels that carries nutrients, various chemicals, and oxygen to the body cells; contains 55% liquid plasma and 45% formed elements
formed elements	portion of blood that includes red blood cells, white blood cells, and clotting cells
plasma	straw-colored fluid portion of blood that contains clotting proteins and transports nutrients, hormones, and waste products
serum	liquid portion of blood with clotting proteins removed
erythrocyte	mature red blood cell (oxygen carrying cell); abbreviated RBC
hemoglobin	erythrocyte protein that transports oxygen
leukocyte	white blood cell; abbreviated WBC
drawing blood	common term for collecting a blood sample
thrombocyte	nucleated clotting cell
platelet	anucleated clotting cell
hemorrhage	loss of blood (usually in a short period of time)
lipemia	excessive amount of fats in the blood
lipemic serum	fats from blood that have settled in the fluid portion (serum); clinically the serum will appear cloudy and white
anemia	blood condition of less-than-normal levels of red blood cells and/or hemoglobin
leukopenia	abnormal decrease in the number of white blood cells
leukocytosis	abnormal increase in the number of white blood cells
hemolytic	removing and destroying red blood cells
hemolytic serum	serum that contains red blood cell components that are released when erythrocytes are damaged due to a variety of causes (such as improper specimen processing, collection, or transport) and appears pink or blood-tinged
icteric serum	serum that is yellow-tinged due to increased bilirubin levels
lymphocyte	type of leukocyte involved in the immune response and works against specific antigens that is responsible for cell-mediated or antibody–mediated immunity
blood smear	blood specimen for microscopic examination in which blood is spread thinly across a microscope slide and typically stained
antigen	substance that the body regards as foreign (such as a virus, bacterium, or toxin)
antibody	disease-fighting protein produced by the body in response to the presence of a specific antigen
lymph	fluid that is formed when interstitial fluid moves into the capillaries of the lymphatic system; lymph brings nutrients and hormones to cells and carries waste products from tissue back to the bloodstream
lymphoid	lymph or tissue of the lymphatic system
lymphatic vessels	valved tubes that carry lymph from tissues toward the thoracic cavity
lymph capillaries	thin-walled tubes that take the lymph to the lymphatic vessels
lymph nodes	small bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and store B and T lymphocytes
interstitial fluid	clear, colorless tissue fluid that leaves the capillaries and flows in the spaces between the cells of a tissue or organ
spleen	organ located in the cranial abdomen that filters foreign material from the blood, stores erythrocytes, removes damaged or old erythrocytes, and maintains an appropriate balance of cells and plasma in the blood
thymus	gland that has a role of the thymus is development of T lymphocytes and is found predominantly in young animals; located near midline in the cranioventral portion of the thoracic cavity
lysis	destruction or breakdown
intact	no cuts, scrapes, openings, or alterations
immunity	exempt from or protected against foreign substances
vaccination	administration of antigen (vaccine) to stimulate a protective immune response against a specific infectious agent; also called immunization
vaccine	a preparation of pathogen (live, weakened, or killed) or portion of pathogen that is administered to stimulate a protective immune response against that pathogen
tonsils	masses of lymphatic tissue that protect the nose and cranial (upper) throat
tonsillitis	inflammation of the tonsils
splenomegaly	enlargement of the spleen
splenectomy	surgical removal of the spleen
allergy	overreaction by the body to a particular antigen; also called hypersensitivity
allergen	substance capable of inducing an allergic reaction
immunosuppression	reduction or decrease in the ability of the immune system to respond to stimulation by antigens
immunology	the study of the immune system
oncology	study, diagnosis, and treatment of tumors
tumor	abnormal growth of tissue
benign	nonmalignant; noncancerous
malignant	cancerous
ulcerating	having depressed, open areas
verrucous	having wartlike growths
histopathology	the microscopic study of the structure, composition, and function of tissues
touch prep	collections of cells on a glass slide pressed against a part of the mass that is then examined under a microscope
metastasis	pathogenic growth distant from the primary disease site; “beyond control”; plural is metastases
metastasize	invasion by the pathogenic growth to a point distant from the primary disease site
carcinoma	malignant growth of epithelial cells
mast cell tumor	malignant growth of tissue mast cells (cells that release histamine)
squamous cell carcinoma	malignant tumor developed from squamous epithelial tissue
chemotherapy	treatment of neoplasm through the use of chemicals
surgical excision	removal of the entire mass in addition to some normal tissue to ensure that the entire mass is removed
melanoma	neoplasm composed of melanin-pigmented cells
sarcoma	malignant neoplasm arising from any type of connective tissue
osteosarcoma	malignant neoplasm composed of bone
lymphoma	general term for neoplasm composed of lymphoid tissue (usually malignant); also called lymphosarcoma; abbreviated LSA
radiation therapy	treatment of neoplasm through the use of x-rays
hematology	study of blood
hemostasis	act of controlling blood or bleeding
hemostat	instrument to control bleeding
anticoagulant	substance that prevents clotting of blood
coagulation	process of clotting
hemolysis	the breaking down of blood cells
edema	accumulation of fluid in the intercellular space
hemangioma	benign neoplasm composed of newly formed blood vessels
hemangiosarcoma	malignant tumor of vascular tissue

acute	short course, sudden onset; implies severe
chronic	long course, progressive onset; persisting for a long time
assessment	evaluation of a condition
signalment	a description of the animal with information about the animal, including the species, breed, age, and sexual status (intact or neutered)
vital signs	parameters taken from the animal to assess its health
temperature	vital sign that provides an indication of an animal’s core body temperature; recorded in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius in animals
pulse	vital sign that tells the number of times the heart beats per minute; also called pulse rate; pulse is taken by palpation of an artery
heart rate	the number of times the heart contracts and relaxes per minute; abbreviated HR
respiration	vital sign that tells the numbers of respirations (one total inhale and one total exhale) per minute; also called respiration rate and abbreviated RR
blood pressure	tension of blood on the walls of the arteries
sphygmomanometer	instrument used to measure blood pressure
ausculatation	the act of listening, which usually involves the use of a stethoscope to listen to body sounds
palpation	examination by feeling
percussion	examination by tapping the surface to determine density of a body area
speculum	instrument to enlarge the opening of a canal or cavity
profile	group of laboratory tests performed on serum; also called screen or panel
venipuncture	withdrawing blood from a vein (usually with a needle and syringe)
enzyme linked immunosorbent assay	type of serological laboratory test to determine either antigen or antibody in blood; abbreviated ELISA
serology	laboratory study of serum and the reactions of antigens and antibodies
complete blood count	diagnostic evaluation of blood to determine the number of erythrocytes, leukocytes, and thrombocytes per cubic millimeter of blood; abbreviated CBC
hematocrit	percentage of erythrocytes in blood; “to separate blood”; also called crit, PCV, or packed cell volume
centrifuge	machine that spins samples very rapidly to separate elements based on density
red cell count	number of erythrocytes per cubic millimeter of blood
white cell count	number of leukocytes per cubic millimeter of blood
acid	property of low pH or increased hydrogen ions
alkaline	property of high pH or decreased hydrogen ions; also called basic
trocar	sharp, needlelike instrument that has a cannula (tube) that is used to puncture the wall of a body cavity to withdraw fluid or gas
cannula	hollow tube
diagnosis	determination of the cause of disease; to know completely; plural is diagnoses
diagnose	process of determining the cause of disease
differential diagnosis	determination of possible causes of diseases; a list of possible disease causes
prognosis	prediction of the outcome of disease; to know before
sign	characteristic of disease that can be observed by others
symptom	characteristic of disease that can only be sensed by the patient; incorrect term in veterinary medicine
remission	partial or complete disappearance of disease signs
syndrome	set of signs that occur together
pathogen	microorganism that produces disease
microorganism	living organism of microscopic dimensions
virulence	the degree to which an organism causes disease
excessive	more than normal
disease	deviation from normal health
infectious disease	disorder caused by pathogenic organisms
contagious disease	disease that can be spread from one animal to another by direct or indirect contact
noncontagious disease	disease that cannot be spread from one animal to another or by contact with contaminated object
noninfectious disease	disorder not caused by organisms (e.g., genetic, traumatic, and iatrogenic)
iatrogenic disease	disorder caused by by physicians or veterinarians (and the treatment ordered)
nosocomial infection	disorder caused by pathogenic organisms contracted in a facility or clinic
atraumatic	pertaining to, resulting from, or caused by a noninjurious route
traumatic	pertaining to, resulting from, or causing injury
carrier	animal that harbors an infectious agent without displaying clinical signs and who may transmit the infectious agent to others
contract	to catch a disease
transmission	transfer from one animal to the next
phobia	extreme fear
asymptomatic	without signs of disease
clinical	visible, readily observed, pertaining to treatment
febrile	fever; an elevated body temperature
afebrile	without a fever
focus	localized region
incidence	number of new cases of disease occurring during a given time
lethal	causing death
swollen	enlarged by fluid retention
palliative	able to relieve but not cure a condition
prophylaxis	prevention
zoonosis	disease that can be transmitted between animals and humans
endoscopy	visual examination of the interior of any cavity of the body by means of an endoscope; the procedures and instruments are named for the body parts involved
endoscopic surgery	procedure using an endoscope to aid in surgical procedures so that only very small incisions are made
radiography	procedure in which film is exposed as ionizing radiation passes through the patient and shows the internal body structures in profile
radiology	study of internal body structures after exposure to ionizing radiation
radiologist	specialist who studies internal body structures after exposure to ionizing radiation
radiograph	record of ionizing radiation used to visualize internal body structures; also called X-ray; note graph is used to mean record as opposed to gram
scout film	plain radiograph without the use of contrast medium
radiographic contrast medium	substance used to show structures on x-ray that are otherwise difficult to see; also called radiographic contrast material
radiopaque	quality of appearing white or light gray on a radiograph because ionizing radiation does not penetrate these structures well
radiolucent	quality of appearing black or dark gray on a radiograph because ionizing radiation passes quickly through these structures
barium sulfate	one example of contrast material; also called barium
ultrasound	imaging of internal body structures by recording echoes of high-frequency waves; also called ultrasonography
sonogram	record of the internal body structures by recording echoes of pulses of sound waves above the range of human hearing
echoic	ultrasound property of producing adequate levels of reflections (echoes) when sound waves are returned to the transducer and displayed
hyperechoic	tissue that reflects more sound back to the transducer than the surrounding tissues; appears bright
hypoechoic	tissue that reflects less sound back to the transducer than the surrounding tissues; appears dark
centi-	one-hundredth
milli-	one-thousandth
kilo-	one-thousand
pharmacology	study of the nature, uses, and effects of drugs
prescription drug	medication that may be purchased by prescription or from a licensed professional
over-the-counter drug	medication that may be purchased without a prescription
generic drug	medication not protected by a brand name or trademark; also called nonproprietary drug
placebo	inactive substance that is given for its suggestive effects or substance used as a control in experimental settings
regimen	course of treatment
contraindication	recommended not to be used
inhalation	vapors and gases taken in through the nose and mouth and absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs
intra-arterial	within the artery; abbreviated IA
oral	by mouth; abbreviated PO or p.o.
rectal	by rectum
subcutaneous	under the skin, or dermal layer; abbreviated SQ, SC, or subq
transdermal	across the skin; medication is stored in a patch placed on the skin or in sometimes solutions, and the medication is absorbed through the skin
intradermal	within the skin; abbreviated ID
intramuscular	within the muscle; abbreviated IM
intravenous	within the vein; abbreviated IV
intraosseous	within the bone (medullary cavity of a long bone); abbreviated IO
analgesic	substance that relieves pain without affecting consciousness
anatacid	substance that neutralizes stomach acid
antibiotic	substance that inhibits the growth of or kills bacteria
bacteriostatic	controlling bacterial growth
bacteriocidal	killing bacteria
anticonvulsant	substance that prevents seizures
kilogram	unit of weight that is one thousand grams; one kilogram is approximately 2.2 pounds; abbreviated kg
percent	part per one hundred parts
gram	metric unit of weight, equal to 0.035 ounce; abbreviated g
liter	metric unit of volume, equal to 0.2642 gallons; abbreviated L
meter	metric unit of length, equal to 1.09 yards; abbreviated m
centimeter	metric unit of length equal to one one-hundredth of a meter; abbreviated cm
milligram	metric unit of weight equal to one one-thousandth of a gram; abbreviated mg
milliliter	metric unit of volume equal to 0.034 of an ounce or one one-thousandth of a liter; abbreviated mL
millimeter	metric unit of length equal to one one-thousandth of a meter; abbreviated mm
anthelmintic	substance that works against intestinal worms
asepsis	state without infection
dosage	amount of medication based on units per weight of animal
dose	amount of medication measured (such as milligrams, milliliters, units, or grams)
antineoplastic agent	substance that treats neoplasms; usually used against malignancies
dosage interval	time between administrations of drug
emetic	substance that induces vomiting
antiemetic	substance the prevents vomiting
antidiarrheal	substance that prevents watery, frequent bowel movements
nebulization	process of making a fine mist; a method of drug administration
anesthetic	substance that produces a lack of sensation
antiseptic	chemical agent that kills or prevents the growth of microorganisms on living tissue
disinfectant	chemical agent that kills or prevents the growth of microorganisms on inanimate objects
sterilize	to destroy all organisms including bacterial endospores
drug	agent used to diagnose, prevent, or treat a disease
vaccine	product containing a disease-causing organism or antigen administered to stimulate the production of antibodies to fight infection
monovalent	vaccine active against a single antigen
polyvalent	vaccine active against multiple antigens or organisms; “mixed vaccine”
prevention	to avoid; also called prophylaxis
hyperkalemia	excessive level of blood potassium
hypernatremia	excessive level of blood sodium
hypokalemia	deficient level of blood potassium
hyponatremia	deficient level of blood sodium
anticoagulant	substance that inhibits clot formation
antipruritic agent	substance that controls itching
immunosuppressant	substance that prevents or decreases the body’s reaction to invasion by disease or foreign material
excise	to surgically remove
incise	to surgically cut into
lumpectomy	general term for surgical removal of a mass
ventral midline incision	surgical cut along the midsagittal plane of the abdomen along the linea alba
paramedian incision	surgical cut lateral and parallel to the ventral midline, but not on the midline
flank incision	surgical cut perpendicular to the long axis of the body, caudal to the last rib
paracostal incision	surgical cut oriented parallel to the last rib
dehiscence	disruption or opening of the surgical wound
fenestration	perforation
seroma	accumulation of serum beneath the surgical incision
aseptic technique	precautions taken to prevent contamination of a surgical wound
autoclave	apparatus for sterilizing by steam under pressure
drape	cloth arranged over a patient’s body to provide a sterile field around the area to be examined, treated, or incised
dissect	separation or cutting apart
scalpel	small, straight knife with a thin, sharp blade used for surgery and dissection
surgery	the branch of science that treats diseases, injuries, and deformities by manual or operative methods
preventative surgery	type of surgery designed to prevent further disease
minimally invasive surgery	type of surgery designed to use the smallest incision as possible such as those using an endoscope
reconstructive surgery	type of surgery designed to improve on or return a part of the body to its original appearance or function
cryogenic surgery	type of surgery involving the use of freezing to destroy tissue
cauterizing surgery	type of surgery involving the use of heat to destroy tissue
tissue forceps	tweezerlike, nonlocking instruments used to grasp tissue
retractor	instrument used to hold back tissue
boxlock	movable joint of any ringed instrument
cast	stiff dressing used to immobilize various body parts
monofilament	single strand of material; used to describe suture
multifilament	several strands that are twisted together; used to describe suture
suture	to stitch or close an area; also refers to the material used in closing a surgical or traumatic wound with stitches
swaged needle	needle joined with suture material in a continuous unit; eyeless needle
taper needle	needle that has a rounded tip that is sharp to allow piercing of, but not cutting of, tissue
cutting needle	needle that has two or three opposing cutting edges
friable	easily crumbled
blunt	dull, not sharp; used to describe needles or instrument ends
belly band	common term for abdominal wrap; circumferentially wrapping the abdomen with bandages to apply pressure to this area
surgical clip	metal staplelike device used for vessel ligation
resect	to remove an organ or tissue; this term is used in reference to holding tissue or an organ out of the surgical field
ligate	to tie or strangulate
ligation	act of tying
ligature	substance used to tie a vessel or strangulate a part
hemostatic forceps	locking instrument used to grasp and ligate vessels and tissues to control bleeding; also called hemostat
ratchet	graded locking portion of an instrument located near the finger rings
serration	sawlike edge or border
lavage	irrigation of tissue with fluid
suction	aspiration of gas or fluid by mechanical means
cautery	application of a burning substance, hot instrument, electric current, or other agent to destroy tissue
appositional	placing side to side
inversion	turning inward
eversion	turning outward
debridement	removal of foreign material and devitalized or contaminated tissue
approach	in surgery, the specific procedure by which an organ or part is exposed
exteriorize	to move an internal organ to the outside of the body
stapling	method of suturing that involves the use of stainless-steel staples to close a wound
laceration	act of tearing
prosthesis	artificial substitute for a diseased or missing part of the body
biopsy	removing living tissue to examine
excisional biopsy	removing entire mass, tissue, or organ to examine
incisional biopsy	cutting into and removing part of a mass, tissue, or organ to examine
needle biopsy	insertion of a sharp instrument (needle) into a tissue for extraction of tissue to be examined
fracture	breaking of a part, especially a bone
enucleation	removal of an organ in whole; usually used for removal of the eyeball
dressing	various materials used to cover and protect a wound
drain	device by which a channel may be established for the exit of fluids from a wound
eviscerate	removal or exposure of internal organs
postop	common term for after surgery; postoperatively
preop	common term for before surgery; preoperatively
intraop	common term for during or within surgery; intraoperatively
clamp	instrument used to secure or occlude things
splint	rigid or flexible appliance for fixation of movable or displaced parts
rupture	forcible tearing
bandage	to cover by wrapping or the material used to wrap
sling	bandage for supporting part of the body
intramedullary pins	metal rods that are inserted into the medullary cavity of long bones to repair stable fractures
bone screw	screw that holds bone fragments together to repair bone fractures
bone plate	flat metal bar with screw holes that is used in bone fracture repair
disease	deviation from normal health