Category: F

A condition in which two people who are closely involved with each other share a system of delusions. Sometimes one member of the pair has developed a ‘psychosis and has imposed it on the other by a process of suggestion; sometimes both members are schizophrenic and elaborate their delusions or hallucinations together. More than two…

A two-winged insect belonging to a large group called the Diptera. The mouthparts of flies are adapted for sucking and sometimes also for piercing and biting. Fly larvae (maggots) may infest human tissues and cause disease. An insect belonging to the order Diptera, characterized by sucking mouth parts, one pair of wings, and complete metamorphosis,…

A major tranquilizer used to treat schizophrenia. It is administered by injection; side-effects can include fatigue, digestive upsets, and drowsiness.  

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…

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.  

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.  

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

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)…

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.  

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