Category: M

Any disorder affecting a single nerve trunk, as in nerve compression from a fractured bone.  

Malignancy of the blood-forming tissues characterized by proliferation of monocytes and monoblasts. Symptoms include anorexia, fatigue, fever, weight loss, enlarged spleen, bleeding gums, and anemia. There are two forms: Schilling’s leukemia and Naegeli’s leukemia. Also called monoblastic leukemia; histiocytic leukemia.  

Chronic burning and pain of the tongue and sensitivity to spicy and hot foods. A chronic superficial glossitis characterized by burning or pain and an increased sensitivity to hot and spicy foods.  

Antineoplastic used to treat cancer of the testes. Adverse effects include blood-clotting disorders, gastrointestinal upsets, and mouth inflammation. An antibiotic that prevents the growth of cancer cells. It is used mainly to treat cancer of the testis and is administered by injection. Common side-effects are digestive upsets and mouth ulcers and, more seriously, nosebleeds and…

Any of a group of small arachnids (relative of spiders and ticks), some of which cause local skin irritation and itching in humans. A free-living or parasitic arthropod belonging to a group (Acarina) that also includes the ticks. Most mites are small, averaging 1 mm or less in length. A mite has no antennae or…

Optical illusion caused by the refraction of light through layers of air of different temperatures.  

Vasodilator used to treat severe and difficult-to- control hypertension. Adverse effects include rapid heartbeat, salt and water retention, gastrointestinal upsets, and hirsutism. Hirsutism is so predictable, in fact, that a liquid form of minoxidil is also marketed, under the trade name Rogaine, as an antibaldness treatment. A hair growth stimulant; also an antihypertensive drug. Minoxidil…

Tetracycline antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial and rickettsial infections. Adverse effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, vertigo (which may be incapacitating), and (in children) discoloration of the teeth. An antibiotic. Minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin) is used to treat many bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, acne, gonorrhea, and chlamydial infections. Minocycline is…

Laxative and stool softener used to treat constipation. Adverse effects include possible laxative dependence, fat-soluble vitamin deficiency, and abdominal cramps.  

Lack of a mineral essential to normal nutrition and metabolism; it may be due to a lack of the mineral in the diet or to inability to absorb the mineral. The symptoms of a mineral deficiency vary, depending on the functions of the specific mineral in maintaining the health of the body. Treatment of a…