Clinical Definition Necrosis is the localized death of living tissue caused by lack of blood or oxygen and cannot be attributed to programmed cell death. In Our Own Words Necrosis is when cells die due to lack of oxygen or blood, rather than a normal, programmed cell death. Necrosis can be caused by many factors,…
Nephrotic Syndrome
Clinical Definition Nephrotic syndrome, a collection of symptoms and laboratory findings that indicate renal damage, is marked by heavy protein in the urine, peripheral edema and hypoalbuminemia. Hyperlipidemia and thrombotic disease are also common. In adults, renal or systemic disease such as diabetes may be the cause; in children, minimal change disease is the major…
Nervous Breakdown
Clinical Definition A nervous breakdown is technically not a medical term, but is frequently used to describe a feeling of overwhelming anxiety and stress, such that a patient is unable to maintain their previous normal level of functioning. It is commonly considered apart from any psychiatric diagnosis such as bipolar disorder, and individuals suffering from…
Neti Pot
Clinical Definition A neti pot is a device used to irrigate the nasal passages and sinuses. Through the device, a saline solution is introduced into the nasal cavity in order to assist in mucociliary clearance. The solution allows allergens to be removed from the nose and sinuses. Using a neti pot may reduce nasal dryness…
Neuropathy
Clinical Definition Neuropathy, also called peripheral neuropathy, describes damage to the peripheral nervous systema network of nerves that connects the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Neuropathy may be acquired from trauma, infection or systemic disease, or may be caused by medications, blood vessel problems or alcoholism. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is the…