MedicalVocabulary.org
Medical vocabulary with 16,436 clear, complete and reliable definitions.
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The most complete online medical dictionary: 16,436 terms covering anatomy, physiology, pathologies, diagnostic exams, pharmacology and every clinical specialty.
Designed for 3 kinds of users:
- Patients and family who want to understand a diagnosis, a medical report or instructions from a doctor.
- Students of medicine, nursing, physiotherapy and the health professions, dealing with technical terminology.
- Doctors, pharmacists and healthcare workers who need a quick and reliable reference.
Definitions are written in clear, accessible language while keeping the rigor required for professional use. Each term has a dedicated URL, instant autocomplete search, and can be shared on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and via email with one click.
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Disclaimer: the content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you have doubts about your health, always consult a qualified professional. In case of emergency call your local emergency number (911 in the US, 112 in the EU).
Melan- (prefix)
Prefix meaning dark or black. It comes from the Greek 'melas', black. Examples of terms containing melan- include melancholia, melanin, melanocytes, melanoma and melena
Read the definitionRandom terms
Show more- Center for Devices & Radiological Health Abbreviated CDRH. Part of the FDA (the US Food & Drug Administration)
- Flesh-eating bacteria A popular media term for a type of strep bacteria (group A streptococcus) which rapidly destroys tissue and…
- Jenner's method The production of immunity to a disease by inoculation of an attenuated form of the virus causing the…
- Autoimmunity A misdirected immune response that occurs when the immune system goes awry and attacks the body itself…
- HLA The major human histocompatibility system. HLA-typing is done before transplantation to determine the degree…
- Thalidomide baby An infant affected by prenatal exposure to the drug thalidomide. This medication was prescribed to pregnant…
- Vitrectomy Removal of the gel (called the vitreous) from within the eyeball. This may be done because it has blood and…
- Uterus, prolapsed A uterus that has moved from its normal position in the abdominal cavity, usually into a lower position…
- Exchange, gas The primary function of the lungs involving the transfer of oxygen from inhaled air into the blood and the…
- Clay-shoveler's fracture An uncommon breakage of the spine of the vertebrae from the lower neck or upper back as a result of stress…
- Ribonucleic acid (RNA) A combination of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and protein. In autoimmune diseases, antibodies can form against…
- Sperm A sperm is the male 'gamete' or sex cell. It combines with the female 'gamete,' called an ovum, to form a…