Glossary

Author: Glossary

  • Fluorescein sodium

    A water-soluble dye that glows with a brilliant green color when light is shone on it. A dilute solution is used to detect defects in the surface of the cornea, since it stains areas where the ‘epithelium is not intact. In retinal angiography it is injected into a vein and its circulation through the blood…

  • Flufenamic acid

    An analgesic drug used to relieve moderate pain, such as headache, rheumatic conditions, and toothache. It is administered by mouth and may cause indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea.  

  • Fludrocortisone

    A synthetic corticosteroid used to treat disorders of the adrenal glands. It is administered by mouth and side-effects include muscle weakness, bone disorders, digestive and skin disorders, and fluid retention.  

  • Flocculus

    A small ovoid lobe of the cerebellum, overhung by the posterior lobe and connected centrally with the nodulus in the midline.  

  • Fissure sealant

    Any of the adhesive composite resins that are used to seal or fill fissures between the cusps of molar and premolar teeth in children in order to prevent caries (which begins there). A material that is applied to the chewing surface of a tooth is used to close any naturally formed fissures (cracks or grooves)…

  • Firedamp

    An explosive mixture of gases, usually containing a high proportion of methane, occasionally encountered in pockets underground. It is distinguished from blackdamp (chokedamp), which does not ignite.  

  • Filum

    A threadlike structure. The filum terminale is the slender tapering terminal section of the spinal cord.  

  • Fibrous dysplasia

    A developmental abnormality in which changes occur in bony tissue, resulting in aching and a tendency to pathological fracture. In monostotic fibrous dysplasia one bone is affected; polyostotic fibrous dysplasia involves many bones. A rare disease in which areas of bone are replaced by fibrous tissue, rendering the bone fragile and liable to fracture. It…

  • Fibromyoma

    A tumor of muscular and fibrous material, usually occurring in the womb.  

  • Fibrodysplasia

    Abnormal development affecting connective tissue.