Category: L

A proteolytic enzyme present in the pancreas, liver, and small intestine. Its serum level is elevated in disease of the pancreas, especially acute pancreatitis, and in obstruction of the common bile duct.  

Formal written notice given by one party to another of a commitment to pursue an action, e.g., of a plan to bring suit against another party or to take on an assignment on behalf of that party. An essential amino acid, C6H13N02; it cannot be synthesized by the liver and must be present in the…

The propensity for a disease or injury to cause death, rather than disability, illness, or pain.  

A cytological abnormality found in Pap tests where there are early mild changes in the epithelial cells covering the outside of the cervix. Causes include infection with human papillomavirus, cervical trauma, or postmenopausal changes. Risk factors include intercourse with multiple sex partners or a partner with multiple sex partners, unprotected sex at a young age,…

An injury occurring in the anterior horn cells, nerve roots, or peripheral nervous system that results in diminished reflexes, flaccid paralysis, and atrophy of muscles.  

An X-linked recessive metabolic disease, in which mental retardation, aggressive behavior, self-mutilation, and renal failure are exhibited by affected boys. The disease is caused by faulty purine metabolism, resulting in excessive uric acid levels in the body.  

Occlusion of the abdominal aorta by a thrombus at its bifurcation. This causes intermittent ischemic pain (i.e., claudication) in the lower extremities and buttocks, impotence, and absent or diminished femoral pulses.  

Parasitic mite larvae causing itch and sometimes wheals.  

The species that causes hemorrhagic, spirochetal jaundice (Weil’s disease). The bacteria are found worldwide; the natural hosts are wild animals and dogs, which develop chronic kidney infection. Humans acquire the bacteria from exposure to animal urine, often in water such as ponds and puddles. Symptomatic infection ranges from mild gastrointestinal upset to fatal liver failure…

An optical device for measuring the thickness of cell membranes.