Health A-Z

Clinical Definition The fallopian tubes are two hollow tubes attached to each side of the uterus that transport the ova from the ovary to the uterus. Sperm typically fertilize ova within the fallopian tubes, and the fertilized ovum travels to the uterus for implantation. Tubal ligation is a form of permanent contraception unless it is…

Clinical Definition Fatty acids are chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms with an acid group at the end. They combine to form lipids, such as triglycerides. The number of bonds between fatty acids dictates whether the resulting compound is saturated or unsaturated. In Our Own Words Fatty acids are one of the building blocks of…

Clinical Definition Fever is a physiological response, usually to disease, characterized by elevated core body temperature outside the normal levels. The hypothalamus regulates body temperature. When a pyrogen triggers a fever, arachidonic acid metabolites are released. The metabolites affect the hypothalamus causing a complex, systemic response in the body, which then results in increased body…

Clinical Definition Fibrocystic breast tissue is a common condition in which breasts have atypically dense tissue, with benign changes such as fibrosis and cysts. Lumps, swelling and tenderness are typical symptoms. Dense breast tissue can make mammograms more difficult to read. Treatment is generally not needed if symptoms are not bothersome. Women with dense breasts…

Clinical Definition Fibromyalgia is a disorder of unknown etiology marked by widespread pain in muscles, tendons and joints all over the body. The condition is also involved with sleep patterns, depression, fatigue and psychological distress. While the exact cause is unknown, one theory proposes that chronic stress contributes to the onset of the disorder, once…

Clinical Definition An atypical tract or opening between internal organs or structures, a fistula may form between organs, or between a structure and the exterior of the body. The passage may occur due to genetic defect, pathology or trauma, or it may be artificially created by surgeons to facilitate movement of fluids. In Our Own…

Clinical Definition Flora are bacteria and other microorganisms that live on the skin and inside the body. The term refers most frequently to bacteria that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. In Our Own Words Flora are essentially tiny bugs, or bacterium, that live both inside the body and outside on the skin. Particular kinds of flora…

Clinical Definition Food allergy is caused by an abnormal immune response to food. Two main categories of food allergy are IgE-mediated and non IgE-mediated, and some allergic disorders have characteristics of both. Reactions involving the skin gastrointestinal, respiratory, or cardiovascular systems may develop. In severe food allergies, anaphylaxis is possible. In Our Own Words Food…

Clinical Definition A fracture is a condition in which the alignment of a bone in the skeletal system is broken or disrupted. Fractures are usually caused by excessive force on the bone due to trauma. Individuals with medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, that weakens the bones are at an increased risk of bone fractures. There…

Clinical Definition Frozen shoulder is a condition where the connective tissue around the glenohumeral joint becomes inflamed, thick and stiff. Adhesion formation also results in a thickening of the tissue. A decrease in synovial fluid is also often present in individuals with frozen shoulder. Frozen shoulder causes a progressive loss of range of motion and…