Category: P
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Precapillary
Before or at the beginning of a capillary network, such as a precapillary sphincter.
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Preaxial
In front of the axis of a limb or of the body.
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Preauthorization
The agreement of a health care funding agent (e.g., a health maintenance organization, health insurer, or governmental agency) to defray the costs of a proposed treatment or procedure before its occurrence.
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Preanesthetic
A preliminary drug given to facilitate induction of general anesthesia.
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Preanesthesia
A light anesthesia produced by a medication given before anesthesia.
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Preandrogens
Any biochemical precursors to male hormones. In women with polycystic ovaries, elevated levels of pre-androgens such as androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) are found in the bloodstream. These steroid hormones are synthesized in the adrenal glands; DHEA, DHEA sulfate, and androstenedione are converted in target tissues (such as the prostate gland) into dihydrotestosterone, which produces masculinizing…
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Preagonal
To the condition immediately before death. Taking place right before the moment of death.
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Praxis
The ability to plan and execute coordinated movement.
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Praxiology
The study of behavior.
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Prausnitz Kustner reaction
The intracutaneous injection of a hypersensitive patient’s serum into a nonallergic person followed, 24 to 48 hr later, by the application of the suspected antigen to the injection site. If a wheal and flare occur, there is evidence that the suspected antigen is causing the hypersensitivity. Because of the danger of transmitting viral hepatitis and…