Category: L

The anterior curvature of the lumbar vertebrae. The lumbar curvature is a secondary spinal curve that begins to develop in the fetus and continues to form throughout infancy.  

A substance that alters its color or changes from opaque to transparent when subjected to changes in temperature, electric current, pressure, or electromagnetic waves, or when impurities are present. Liquid crystals have been used to detect temperature fluctuation in infants and may be divided into two general classes: cholestric, which change color; and nematic, which…

A discontinuous adventitious lung sound that is present in the latter half of inhalation.  

A water-soluble contrast medium with low osmolarity. These agents produce fewer undesired effects after intravascular administration than do high osmolarity contrast media. They are generally nonionic, with the exception of Hexabrix (an ionic dimer).  

A radiograph that demonstrates small differences in density between adjacent areas. Long-scale contrast is a result of high kilovoltage peak (kVp). In dental radiography, for example, 80 to 90 kVp or higher is necessary to produce a radiograph with long scale contrast. The implementation of an elevated Kv.P. range yields a diverse range of nine…

A registered nurse who provides expert information to lawyers or others involved in health care legal issues. These consultants must have either an advanced degree or certification through special programs.  

States of arousal and awareness, ranging from fully awake and oriented to one’s environment to comatose. It is important to use a standardized system of description rather than vague terms such as semiconscious, semicomatose, or semistuporous.  

A column in the lateral portion of the gray matter of the spinal cord. It contains cell bodies of preganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system.  

Severe abdominal colic associated with lead poisoning.  

A clot formed in a succession of layers filling an aneurysm.