Category: A

A former name for the serum component now called complement.  

Describing a stage of ‘leukemia in which there is no increase in the number of white cells in the blood. The stage is almost invariably followed by one in which excessive numbers of white cells are produced, as typical in leukemia.  

A mild form of smallpox, causing only a sparse rash and low-grade fever. Alastrim, or variola minor, is a form of smallpox which differs from ordinary smallpox in being milder and having a low mortality. A less severe variant of smallpox discovered in South Africa.  

Loss of one or more toes due to slow growth of a fibrous band around the toe that eventually causes a spontaneous amputation. The condition is found in Africans and is associated with going barefoot. Spontaneous loss of fingers or toes typically occurring in Africa due to the formation of a fissured, constricting band forming…

A federal program that provides financial aid to slates so that medical assistance can be furnished to persons who are blind. Aid to the Blind is covered by Title XIX of the US Social Security Act.  

Describing or relating to the phenomena, such as cessation of breathing or change in the ECG or EEG, that are associated with the moment of death. Pertaining to extreme suffering, often linked with the final moments of agony before death.  

Complete absence of the coagulation factor fibrinogen in the blood. Absence or deficiency of fibrinogen in the bloodstream.  

Without, or not showing any signs of, a fever.  

A syndrome of anxiety, agitation, and insomnia found in pilots flying unpressurized aircraft and attributed to anoxia. A psychological condition observed among pilots and aircrew, first identified during World War II. It was commonly seen in pilots who had flown numerous combat missions and displayed signs of mental fatigue, indicating a need for rest. The…

A waxlike substance, consisting mainly of fatty acids, into which the soft tissues of the body can be converted after death. This usually occurs when the body is buried in damp earth or is submerged in water. Adipocere delays post-mortem decomposition and is a spontaneous form of preservation without mummification. A brown, waxlike substance composed…