Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

A tropical parasite which is passed to humans by the bites of sandflies and causes the group of infections known as leishmaniasis. A genus of parasitic flagellate protozoans, several species of which cause disease in man (see leishmaniasis). The parasite assumes a different form in each of its two hosts. In man, especially in kalaazar…

A sarcoma in which large bundles of smooth muscle are found. Malignant tumor of smooth muscle, occurring most often in the bladder, prostate, uterus, or digestive tract. A malignant tumor of smooth muscle, most commonly found in the womb, stomach, small bowel, and at the base of the bladder. It is the second most common…

An abortion which is carried out legally.  

The fact of being left-handed. Tendency to prefer use of the left hand in performing tasks (e.g., writing, grasping, throwing); also called sinistrality. Using the left hand as the dominant hand, e.g., for writing, work, or sports.  

Poisoning caused by taking in lead salts. Lead is among the oldest known toxins. Because of postnatal central nervous system development and relatively weak blood-brain barrier, early exposure has the greatest effects. However, exposure at any point can have serious effects. The Center for Disease Control estimates that in the United States, over 20% of…

A blue line seen on the gums in cases of lead poisoning. An irregular dark line in the gingival margin. The line is present in chronic lead poisoning and is caused by the deposition of lead in that portion of the gum.  

With no lead in it.  

A mineral that is toxic to the neuromuscular system. A metallic element and normal blood constituent that can be toxic if ingested. If blood or urine levels are elevated, lead poisoning is likely. Insulated wires connecting a monitoring device to a patient. A metallic element whose compounds are poisonous; atomic weight 207.2, atomic number 82,…