Category: M

  • Mean marrow dose

    An estimated measure of average radiation exposure given to the blood-forming progenitor cells of the bone marrow, e.g., in whole body radiation treatment. The percentage of active bone marrow in the useful beam is multiplied by the average absorbed dose.  

  • Maximum permissible dose

    The highest dose of radiation to which a person may be exposed over 1 year.  

  • Maximum dose

    The largest dose that is safe to administer.  

  • Maintenance dose

    The dose required to sustain a desired effect.  

  • Mitochondrial DNA

    Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in the intracellular bodies known as mitochondria. It differs from nuclear DNA in its nucleotide sequences, its size (about 16.5 kb), and its source (it is derived solely from the egg, not the sperm). Variations in mtDNA point to the ways in which members of a related population differ from each other…

  • Moral distress

    Response to the inability to carry out one’s chosen ethical/moral decision/action.  

  • Microbic dissociation

    A change in the morphology of a cultured microbial colony due to mutation or selection.  

  • Metacarpophalangeal joint dislocation

    The dislocation of the joint between the carpals and the phalanges, usually involving the index finger or small finger of the hand. The dislocation may be simple and respond to closed manipulation or be complex and require surgery.  

  • Mechanical digestion

    The conversion of food into small pieces by chewing, churning of the stomach, or the emulsifying action of bile salts, exposing more surface area to digestive enzymes.  

  • Minimum residue diet

    A diet used for short periods to ensure a minimum of solid material in the intestinal tract. Foods allowed include one glass of milk per day, clear fluids and juices, lean meat, noodles, and refined cereals.