Category: L

  • Lipolytic enzyme

    An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of fats.  

  • Lubricating enema

    An enema given to soften and ease the passage of feces through the anal canal.  

  • lingual embrasure

    The embrasure opening to the lingual sides of the teeth.  

  • Liquid membrane electrode

    An electrode in which the sensing membrane is made up of a hydrophobic ion-exchange neutral carrier (ionophore) dissolved in a viscous, water-insoluble solvent. The liquid membrane is physically supported by an inert porous matrix such as cellulose acetate.  

  • Little league elbow

    A form of overuse syndrome marked by inflammation of the medial condyle or fractures of the lateral humeral condyle of the elbow. It is seen in adolescent baseball players, especially in pitchers. In order to help prevent this condition, Little League Baseball regulations limit the number of pitches a player can throw per week.  

  • Laryngeal edema

    Swelling of the larynx, usually resulting from allergic reaction and causing airway obstruction unless treated. Therapy consists of intravenous or intratracheal epinephrine, emergency tracheostomy, or both.  

  • Laron dwarf

    A dwarf whose short stature results from an insensitivity or resistance to growth hormone.  

  • Look-alike drug

    Any of a group of solid dosage forms of drugs that mimic various prescription drugs by size, shape, color, and markings. Some of these may be controlled drugs. A drug that is made to look like a commonly abused drug but may actually contain any kind of substance.  

  • Living donor

    A person who donates an organ or tissue while he or she is still living. Living donors must be healthy and antigenically matched to the recipient.  

  • Lochial discharge

    Uterine excretion following childbirth.