MAKE THE LANGUAGE FAMILIAR
Medical words. Clear meanings.
779 terms connected to the concepts you’re learning.
779 terms
Abduction
Movement away from the body’s midline.
Accommodation
Changing lens shape to focus at different distances.
Acetabulum
The hip-bone socket receiving the head of the femur.
Acid–base balance
Regulation of acidity and alkalinity in body fluids.
Acinar cell
A pancreatic cell that produces digestive enzymes.
Acinus
A rounded glandular secretory unit surrounding a small lumen.
Acoustic window
A route through which sound can reach the target effectively.
ACTH
Pituitary hormone that stimulates cortisol production in the adrenal cortex.
Action potential
A brief regenerating change in membrane voltage.
Activation energy
The initial energy barrier a reaction must overcome.
Active site
The enzyme region that binds substrates and supports the reaction.
Active transport
Transport that uses energy to move substances against a gradient.
Adaptation
A change in response to conditions; in sensation, a change in receptor response during continued stimulation.
ADH
Antidiuretic hormone, also called vasopressin; it helps the kidneys conserve water.
Adrenal cortex
Outer adrenal tissue that produces steroid hormones.
Adrenal gland
A hormone-producing gland near the upper pole of a kidney.
Adrenal medulla
Inner adrenal tissue that releases adrenaline and noradrenaline.
Afferent arteriole
The small artery bringing blood into a glomerulus.
Affinity
How readily a molecule binds another substance.
Ageing
Biological changes that accumulate over time.
Agonist
A muscle contributing to an intended action.
Air trapping
Retention of air because parts of the lung cannot empty effectively.
Airway resistance
Opposition to airflow through the respiratory passages.
Albuminuria
An abnormal amount of the protein albumin in urine.
Aldosterone
An adrenal hormone that promotes kidney sodium reabsorption and potassium secretion.
Aliasing
Wrapping of measured signals beyond a selected sampling range.
Allele
A version of a gene.
Allergen
A substance that triggers an allergic immune response in a sensitised person.
Alveolar ventilation
Fresh air reaching gas-exchanging lung regions per unit time.
Alveolus
A tiny lung air space where gas exchange occurs.
Amino acid
A small molecule used to build proteins.
Ammonium
A nitrogen-containing ion used in renal acid excretion.
Amygdala
A group of nuclei involved in emotional significance and learning.
Anaemia
A reduction in haemoglobin concentration below the appropriate reference range.
Anaphylaxis
A severe systemic allergic reaction that can affect breathing and circulation.
Anatomical position
The standard reference posture used to describe the body.
Anatomical variation
A difference from the most commonly described structural pattern.
Angiotensin II
A signalling peptide influencing vessels and volume regulation.
Annular ligament
A ring-like ligament supporting the radial head while allowing rotation.
Annulus fibrosus
The tough layered outer ring of an intervertebral disc.
Antagonist
A muscle capable of opposing a particular action.
Anterior compartment
The front muscle group of the arm, mainly involved in elbow flexion.
Anterior pituitary
The pituitary portion whose endocrine cells make several hormones.
Anterior ramus
A mixed branch of a spinal nerve supplying much of the trunk or limbs.
Antibody
A protein made by plasma cells that binds a specific target feature.
Antidiuretic hormone
A hormone that promotes water reabsorption by the kidneys.
Antigen
A molecular feature recognised by adaptive immune receptors.
Aorta
The main artery carrying blood from the left ventricle.
Apex of the heart
The pointed region usually directed downwards, forwards and leftwards.
Aponeurosis
A broad sheet-like connective-tissue attachment.
Appendicular skeleton
The limb bones and the girdles attaching them to the trunk.
Aquaporin
A membrane protein forming a water channel.
Areola
The pigmented skin surrounding the nipple.
Artefact
An appearance introduced or distorted by the imaging process.
Arteriole
A small artery that strongly influences resistance and local flow.
Artery
A blood vessel carrying blood away from the heart.
Articular cartilage
Smooth cartilage covering the moving surfaces of bones in a joint.
Articular disc
A fibrous pad that divides and helps organise a joint’s moving surfaces.
Aspiration
Entry of material into the airway below the vocal folds.
Asthma
A chronic airway disorder with variable airflow limitation and inflammation.
Astrocyte
A central nervous system glial cell helping regulate the neural environment.
Asymptomatic bacteriuria
Bacteria in urine without symptoms attributable to urinary infection.
Ataxia
Impaired coordination that can produce unsteady movement.
Atherosclerosis
Plaque-forming disease within arterial walls.
ATP
A rapidly recycled molecule that transfers energy for cellular work.
ATP synthase
An enzyme complex that uses a proton gradient to make ATP.
Atrioventricular node
A conduction region that delays transmission from atria towards ventricles.
Atrium
A heart chamber that receives returning blood.
Atrophy
A reduction in tissue size or capacity.
Attenuation
Reduction of a beam as it passes through material.
Auditory tube
A passage linking the middle ear to the upper throat.
Autoantibody
An antibody directed against a component of the tissues of the same body.
Autoimmunity
An immune response against self that contributes to disease.
Autonomic nervous system
Neural control of cardiac muscle, smooth muscle and glands.
Axial plane
A plane cutting across the body.
Axial skeleton
The skeleton of the central body axis.
Axillary lymph node
A lymph node in the armpit region.
Axillary nerve
A major nerve supplying deltoid, teres minor and lateral shoulder skin.
Axillary nodes
Lymph nodes in the armpit receiving much upper-limb drainage.
Axon
A neuronal process carrying signals towards target cells.
Basal metabolic rate
Energy used to maintain essential body functions at rest.
Basement membrane
A supporting extracellular layer beneath an epithelium.
Basilar membrane
The membrane whose vibration helps separate sound frequencies.
Beta cell
A pancreatic endocrine cell that releases insulin.
Bicarbonate
A dissolved ion important in acid buffering, carbon dioxide transport and neutralising acid in digestive secretions.
Bicipital aponeurosis
A connective-tissue sheet extending from the biceps tendon into forearm fascia.
Bile
A liver-produced fluid supporting fat handling and waste excretion.
Bile duct
A tube carrying bile towards the small intestine.
Bile salt
A molecule that helps disperse and transport fats in the intestine.
Bilirubin
A pigment produced during haemoglobin breakdown.
Binocular disparity
The small difference between the images seen by the two eyes.
Blastocyst
An early developmental structure with an inner cell group and an outer supporting layer.
Blood pressure
Pressure exerted by blood against vessel walls.
Blood smear
A thin stained film of blood examined microscopically.
Blood–brain barrier
Selective properties of brain capillaries restricting entry from blood.
Bolus
A soft mass of chewed food ready to be swallowed.
Bone matrix
The extracellular material containing collagen and mineral that forms bone.
Booster
An additional vaccine dose intended to reinforce protection.
Brachial plexus
A nerve network redistributing fibres from lower cervical and upper thoracic spinal nerves to the upper limb.
Brachialis
A deep arm muscle that flexes the elbow.
Brainstem
The midbrain, pons and medulla connecting brain and spinal cord.
Bronchiole
A small airway with smooth muscle in its wall.
Bronchodilator
A medicine that widens airways by relaxing smooth muscle.
Brush border
The microvillus-covered surface of intestinal absorptive cells.
Buccinator
A cheek muscle that helps keep food against the teeth.
Buffer
A substance system that reduces sudden changes in pH.
Bursa
A fluid-containing sac that reduces friction between moving tissues.
Caecum
The pouch at the beginning of the large intestine.
Calcitriol
The active form of vitamin D that promotes intestinal calcium absorption.
Callus
Repair tissue bridging a fracture during healing.
Canaliculus
A tiny channel connecting osteocyte spaces.
Capillary
A tiny blood vessel through which exchange occurs between blood and tissues.
Capsule
A fibrous envelope surrounding a synovial joint.
Carbonic anhydrase
An enzyme that accelerates carbon dioxide–water chemistry.
Cardiac muscle
The specialised striated muscle of the heart.
Cardiac output
The volume pumped by one ventricle per minute.
Carina
The ridge where the trachea divides into main bronchi.
Carotid body
A small sensory structure that monitors arterial blood chemistry.
Carotid sheath
A fascial sleeve containing major neck vessels and the vagus nerve.
Carotid sinus
A carotid region containing blood-pressure stretch receptors.
Carpal tunnel
A wrist passage formed by carpal bones and the flexor retinaculum.
Cartilaginous joint
A joint connected through cartilage.
Cauda equina
The bundle of lower spinal nerve roots below the end of the cord.
Cell
The smallest living unit of the body.
Central tendon
The strong central connective-tissue part of the diaphragm.
Cephalic vein
A major superficial vein on the lateral side of the upper limb.
Cerebellum
A brain region important for coordination and motor learning.
Cerebral cortex
The folded outer grey-matter layer of the cerebrum.
Cerebrospinal fluid
Fluid circulating through ventricles and around the central nervous system.
Chemoreceptor
A sensor responding to chemical conditions.
Chondrocyte
A cell that maintains cartilage matrix.
Chordae tendineae
Fibrous cords supporting atrioventricular valve leaflets.
Chylomicron
A lipoprotein particle transporting much absorbed dietary fat.
Chyme
The partly digested mixture leaving the stomach.
Cilia
Tiny moving hairs that help move mucus towards the throat.
Circadian rhythm
An internally generated biological rhythm lasting approximately twenty-four hours.
Cleavage
Early cell divisions that increase cell number without an immediate increase in overall size.
Cochlea
The coiled inner-ear structure responsible for hearing.
Collagen
A family of proteins providing tensile strength in many tissues.
Colon
The major part of the large intestine between caecum and rectum.
Common fibular nerve
A sciatic branch dividing into deep and superficial fibular nerves.
Compartment
A muscle group enclosed by connective tissue.
Compensated cirrhosis
Cirrhosis without the major clinical complications of decompensation.
Compliance
How much a structure changes volume for a given pressure change; high lung compliance means easier expansion.
Concha
A curved bony shelf on the lateral nasal wall.
Conductive hearing loss
Reduced hearing caused by impaired sound transmission through the outer or middle ear.
Condyle
A rounded articular part of a bone.
Cone
A photoreceptor supporting colour and detailed vision.
Congenital
Present from birth, even if recognised later.
Congestion
Accumulation associated with elevated venous or filling pressures.
Consolidation
Processes that stabilise and reorganise memories over time.
Continence
The ability to retain and control the release of urine or faeces.
Contrast agent
A substance used to alter image visibility.
Contrast phase
The timing of imaging relative to administration and circulation.
Conus medullaris
The tapered lower end of the spinal cord.
COPD
A disorder characterised by persistent airflow obstruction in an appropriate clinical context.
Cornea
The clear front surface of the eye that bends incoming light.
Coronal plane
A plane dividing front and back portions.
Coronary artery
An artery supplying the heart muscle.
Corpus callosum
A large fibre connection between cerebral hemispheres.
Corpus luteum
Temporary hormone-producing tissue formed from the follicle after ovulation.
Cortisol
An adrenal steroid involved in metabolism, stress responses and immune regulation.
Costal cartilage
Cartilage connecting ribs towards the front of the thorax.
Costophrenic angle
The junction of the diaphragm and chest wall on an image.
Cranial fossa
A broad depression in the floor of the cranial cavity.
Cranial nerve
A nerve conventionally associated with one of twelve pairs connecting with the brain.
Creatine phosphate
A compound that rapidly helps regenerate ATP in muscle.
Cross-bridge
A force-producing interaction between a myosin head and actin.
Cruciate ligament
One of two crossing ligaments inside the knee.
Crystallisation
Formation of solid crystals from dissolved substances.
Cubital fossa
The triangular region at the front of the elbow.
Cystitis
Inflammation of the bladder, often caused by infection.
Cystocele
An anterior vaginal-wall bulge associated with the bladder.
Cytokine
A signalling protein that changes immune or other cellular activity.
Cytotoxic T cell
A T cell capable of killing selected infected or abnormal cells.
Dead space
Airway volume that does not participate in gas exchange.
Deficiency
An inadequate supply or availability of a required substance.
Dendrite
A branching neuronal process that usually receives signals.
Depolarisation
An electrical change that activates excitable cells.
Dermatome
An area of skin mainly associated with one spinal nerve level.
Dermis
The connective-tissue layer beneath the epidermis containing vessels, nerves and supporting structures.
Detrusor
The bladder wall’s smooth muscle.
Diaphysis
The shaft of a long bone.
Diastole
The relaxation and filling phase of a heart chamber.
Diastolic pressure
The lower arterial pressure between heartbeats.
Differential diagnosis
A set of possible explanations being considered.
Diffusion
Net movement down a concentration gradient; gas diffusion is commonly described using partial-pressure gradients.
Dilation
Opening or widening, including opening of the cervix.
Disc herniation
Displacement of disc material beyond its usual boundaries.
Dislocation
Loss of normal alignment between joint surfaces.
Doppler shift
A frequency change caused by motion between source and reflector.
Dorsal root
The sensory entry route into the spinal cord.
Dorsiflexion
Lifting the forefoot towards the shin.
Double support
The walking interval when both feet contact the ground.
Ductus arteriosus
A fetal vessel connecting pulmonary artery and aorta.
Duodenum
The first part of the small intestine, next to the stomach and pancreatic head.
Eccentric action
An active muscle action in which the muscle lengthens under load.
Eccentric contraction
Muscle contraction while the muscle lengthens under load.
Eccrine gland
A sweat gland that opens onto the skin and supports evaporative cooling.
ECG
A recording of electrical voltage differences associated with heart activity.
Echogenicity
The tendency of a structure to generate visible echoes.
Effacement
Thinning of the cervix during preparation for birth.
Effector
A cell, tissue or organ that carries out a response.
Efferent arteriole
The small artery carrying blood away from a glomerulus.
eGFR
An estimate of how much fluid the kidney filters through its glomeruli.
Ejection fraction
The proportion of ventricular blood ejected during a beat.
Elastic cartilage
Cartilage rich in elastic fibres that supports flexible structures.
Electrolyte
A substance that produces ions when dissolved in water.
Embolus
Material travelling in blood that can lodge downstream.
Embryo
The developing human during the early period of organ formation.
Emission
Movement of sperm and gland secretions towards the urethra before expulsion.
Emphysema
Destruction of alveolar walls with loss of supporting tissue and recoil.
Endocrine
Releasing hormones into tissue fluid and the circulation.
Endometrium
The inner uterine lining that changes during reproductive cycles.
Endothelium
The cell lining of blood vessels.
Endurance
The ability to sustain or repeat activity over time.
Enhancement
A change in tissue appearance after contrast administration.
Enteric nervous system
Neural networks within the digestive tract wall.
Enzyme
A biological catalyst that accelerates a reaction.
Epicardium
The visceral serous pericardial layer covering the heart surface.
Epidermis
The outer epithelial layer of skin.
Epididymis
A coiled duct where sperm mature and are stored.
Epigastric region
The upper central region of the nine-region abdominal map.
Epiphysis
An expanded end of a long bone.
Epithelium
A closely packed cellular tissue covering or lining a surface.
Erectile tissue
Specialised tissue that expands as it fills with blood.
Erector spinae
A group of deep back muscles that helps extend and control the spine.
Erythrocyte
A red blood cell.
Erythropoietin
A hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
Evaporation
Conversion of liquid to vapour, which removes heat from a surface.
Eversion
Turning the sole outwards.
Exocrine
Secretion through ducts onto a surface or into a lumen.
Expiration
Movement of air out of the lungs.
Extensor
A muscle that increases the angle at a joint or straightens a body part.
Extensor expansion
A tendon network on the back of a finger distributing muscle forces.
External urethral sphincter
Skeletal muscle providing voluntary influence over the urinary outlet.
Extracellular fluid
Fluid outside cells, including plasma and interstitial fluid.
Extracellular matrix
Material outside cells that provides support and signals.
Extraocular muscle
A muscle that moves the eyeball.
Extrinsic muscle
A muscle outside a region that acts on it through a tendon.
Facet joint
A small joint between the articular processes of neighbouring vertebrae.
Facial nerve
The seventh cranial nerve, supplying facial expression and other functions.
False positive
A positive result when the target condition is absent.
Fascia
Connective tissue that surrounds and connects muscles, organs and other structures.
Fascicle
A bundle of fibres, such as muscle fibres within a muscle or nerve fibres within a nerve.
Fat-soluble vitamin
A vitamin whose absorption and handling are associated with fats.
Fatigue
A reduced capacity to maintain the expected force or performance.
Femoral triangle
A groin region containing major nerves and vessels.
Fermentation
Microbial breakdown of substances without using oxygen in the same way as aerobic metabolism.
FEV1
Volume forcibly exhaled during the first second.
Fibrin
An insoluble protein network that reinforces and stabilises a blood clot.
Fibrinolysis
The breakdown of fibrin during clot removal.
Fibroblast
A cell that produces and maintains connective-tissue matrix.
Fibrocartilage
Strong cartilage with prominent collagen bundles adapted to loading.
Fibrosis
Excess deposition of scar-like connective tissue after injury.
Fibrous joint
A joint connected by dense fibrous connective tissue.
Filtrate
Fluid entering Bowman’s space after glomerular filtration.
Fimbriae
Finger-like projections near the open end of a uterine tube.
Fissure
A cleft separating regions such as lung lobes.
Flank
The side of the trunk between the lower ribs and hip.
Flexion
A bending movement that usually decreases the angle between body parts; its direction depends on the region.
Flexor digitorum profundus
A forearm muscle whose tendons bend the fingertip joints.
Flexor retinaculum
A strong band bridging the palmar carpal arch.
Foramen
An opening through a bone.
Foramen ovale
A fetal opening between the right and left atria.
Fovea
The central retinal region specialised for fine detail.
Fracture
A break in a bone.
Functional reserve
Capacity available beyond the amount needed for ordinary activity.
Gallstone
A solid deposit formed within the biliary system, usually in the gallbladder.
Gamete
A reproductive cell containing one chromosome set.
Ganglion
A collection of neuronal cell bodies outside the central nervous system.
Gastrulation
The developmental process establishing the three major germ layers.
Gene
A DNA region containing information for a functional biological product.
Genetic variant
A difference in a DNA sequence.
Germ layer
One of the three early tissue layers that contributes to body structures.
Gestational diabetes
Diabetes first diagnosed during pregnancy that is not clearly pre-existing diabetes.
GFR
The volume of filtrate formed by both kidneys per unit time.
Glans
The sensitive expanded end of the penis or visible part of the clitoris.
Glenoid cavity
The shallow scapular socket for the humeral head.
Glia
Cells that support and regulate nervous-system function.
Glomerulus
A capillary tuft where renal filtration begins.
Glucagon
A pancreatic hormone that helps the liver supply glucose to the blood, especially between meals.
Glucose
A small sugar used by cells as an energy source.
Glycogen
A branched storage form of glucose found mainly in liver and skeletal muscle.
Glycolysis
A cytoplasmic pathway that begins glucose breakdown.
GnRH
Hypothalamic hormone that stimulates pituitary FSH and LH release.
Granulation tissue
New vascular connective tissue forming during wound repair.
Grey matter
Nervous tissue rich in neuronal cell bodies and synapses.
Growth
An increase in body size.
Growth plate
Cartilage region where a developing long bone increases in length.
Gustation
The sense of taste.
H&E
Haematoxylin and eosin, a common tissue stain combination.
Haematocrit
The fraction of blood volume occupied by red blood cells.
Haematoma
A local collection of blood outside vessels.
Haemodilution
A fall in blood-cell concentration because plasma volume increases proportionally more.
Haemoglobin
The red-cell protein that reversibly binds oxygen and supports its transport in blood.
Haemolysis
Destruction of red blood cells.
Haemorrhage
Bleeding from a blood vessel.
Haemostasis
The coordinated process that limits bleeding.
Hair cell
A sensory cell that responds when its stereocilia bend.
Hair follicle
A skin structure surrounding the hair root and supporting hair growth.
HbA1c
A measure of glucose attached to haemoglobin, reflecting recent longer-term glucose exposure.
hCG
An early pregnancy hormone that supports the corpus luteum.
Heart failure
A syndrome of impaired cardiac function with inadequate delivery or raised filling pressures.
Helicobacter pylori
A bacterium that can contribute to stomach inflammation and peptic ulcers.
Hepatic portal vein
The vessel carrying blood from digestive organs and the spleen towards liver sinusoids.
Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver.
Hernia
Protrusion of tissue through a weakness or opening in its containing wall.
Hiatus
An opening or gap through which a structure passes.
Hiatus hernia
Upward displacement of part of the stomach through the diaphragm’s oesophageal opening.
Hilum
The region where major vessels, nerves or ducts enter and leave an organ; the lung hilum also carries airways.
Hip extension
Moving the thigh backwards relative to the pelvis.
Hippocampus
A structure important for forming many new declarative memories.
Histology
The microscopic study of tissues.
Homeostasis
Regulation of internal conditions within ranges compatible with function.
Hormone
A chemical message released into blood to influence target cells.
Hounsfield unit
A scale of CT attenuation referenced to water and air.
HPA axis
The hormone pathway linking hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal cortex.
Hyaline cartilage
Cartilage providing smooth support, including many joint surfaces.
Hydrostatic pressure
Pressure exerted by a fluid that can drive movement across a barrier.
Hyoid bone
A small neck bone supporting tongue and laryngeal attachments.
Hypertrophy
An increase in cell or tissue size, often through increased cellular material.
Hypodermis
Subcutaneous tissue beneath the skin, often containing fat.
Hypothalamus
A brain region integrating internal regulation and hormonal control.
IgE
An antibody class involved in many immediate allergic responses.
Ileum
The final small-intestinal segment before the caecum.
Immune memory
Lasting changes that support faster or stronger responses to later antigen exposure.
Immunodeficiency
Inadequate function of one or more immune components.
Implantation
Attachment and entry of an early embryo into the uterine lining.
Infarction
Tissue death caused by prolonged inadequate blood supply.
Infection
Harmful interaction with microorganisms multiplying in the body.
Inferior vena cava
The large systemic vein returning blood from the lower body to the heart.
Inflammation
A coordinated response to injury or threat involving vascular and immune changes.
Inguinal canal
An oblique passage through the lower abdominal wall.
Inherited
Passed from parent to child through reproductive cells.
Inhibin
A gonadal hormone that reduces pituitary FSH release.
Innate immunity
Rapid defence using barriers and inherited pattern-recognition mechanisms.
Inspiration
Movement of air into the lungs.
Insulin
A pancreatic hormone that supports nutrient uptake and storage and reduces liver glucose output.
Insulin resistance
Reduced responsiveness of tissues to insulin.
Insulin sensitivity
How strongly tissues respond to insulin.
Intercalated disc
A specialised connection linking cardiac muscle cells.
Intercostal space
The interval between neighbouring ribs.
Internal carotid artery
A major artery supplying much of the brain and the eye.
Internal iliac artery
A major artery supplying much of the pelvis and perineum.
Internal jugular vein
A major vein draining the brain and deep head and neck.
Interneuron
A neuron linking other neurons within a circuit.
Interstitial fluid
Fluid between tissue cells.
Intracellular fluid
Fluid inside cells.
Intrinsic factor
A stomach protein needed for effective vitamin B12 absorption.
Intrinsic muscle
A muscle situated within the body region in which it acts, such as an intrinsic hand or foot muscle.
Ion
An atom or group of atoms with an electrical charge.
Ionised calcium
Free calcium ions available for cellular functions.
Ionising radiation
Radiation energetic enough to remove electrons from atoms.
Ischaemia
Blood supply insufficient for a tissue’s needs.
Isovolumetric
Occurring without a change in volume.
Jaundice
Yellowing of skin or eyes caused by increased bilirubin.
Jejunum
The middle part of the small intestine, following the duodenum.
Joint
A connection between skeletal elements.
Joint capsule
The connective-tissue enclosure surrounding a synovial joint.
Justification
Deciding that an examination’s expected benefit outweighs its risks.
Keratin
A strong structural protein abundant in skin, hair and nails.
Keratinocyte
The main epidermal cell that contributes to the protective surface.
Ketone body
A liver-produced fuel whose availability increases during prolonged carbohydrate shortage.
Kyphosis
A spinal curve that is convex towards the back.
Labrum
A fibrocartilaginous rim that deepens a joint socket.
Lacrimal gland
A gland that produces the watery component of tears.
Lactate
A metabolic product that can be transported and used as fuel or precursor.
Lacteal
A lymphatic capillary in an intestinal villus that absorbs many dietary fats.
Lacuna
A small matrix space containing a cartilage or bone cell.
Larynx
The cartilaginous airway structure involved in voice and airway protection.
Lateral
Farther from the body’s midline.
Lateral flexion
Sideways bending of the neck or trunk.
Leukocyte
A white blood cell involved in defence and immune regulation.
Ligament
A connective-tissue band linking bones and helping guide joint movement.
Linea alba
The midline connective-tissue seam joining abdominal muscle sheets.
Lobe
A major anatomical subdivision of a cerebral hemisphere.
Lobule
A small glandular unit containing milk-producing structures.
Loop of Henle
A nephron segment helping create the medullary concentration gradient.
Lordosis
A spinal curve that is convex towards the front.
Lower oesophageal sphincter
A functional high-pressure zone limiting stomach backflow.
Lumen
The hollow interior of a tube-like organ.
Lymph
Fluid carried by lymphatic vessels from tissues towards the blood circulation.
Lymph node
An organ along lymphatic vessels where tissue-drainage material meets immune cells.
Lymphatic capillary
A small blind-ended vessel that receives tissue fluid.
Lymphocyte
A white-cell group that includes B cells, T cells and natural killer cells.
Lymphoedema
Tissue swelling associated with inadequate lymphatic drainage.
Macrophage
A phagocytic immune cell involved in defence, clearance and repair signalling.
Malabsorption
Impaired uptake of nutrients through the intestine.
Malignant
Able to invade tissues and potentially spread.
Malleolus
A bony projection at either side of the ankle.
Mandible
The lower jaw bone.
Mast cell
A tissue immune cell that can release histamine and other mediators.
Mastication
The process of chewing.
Maturation
Development towards functional capability.
Medial
Closer to the body’s midline.
Median cubital vein
A variable superficial vein commonly crossing the front of the elbow.
Median nerve
A major upper-limb nerve passing through the carpal tunnel.
Mediastinum
The central thoracic region between the pleural sacs.
Medulla
The lower brainstem region containing important automatic control networks.
Medullary gradient
Increasing solute concentration towards the inner kidney medulla.
Meiosis
Cell division that reduces chromosome sets and reshuffles genetic information.
Melanin
Pigment produced by melanocytes that contributes to colour and partial ultraviolet protection.
Melanocyte
A pigment-producing cell in the epidermis and some other tissues.
Melatonin
A pineal hormone that helps signal biological night.
Menarche
The first menstrual period.
Meninges
The dura, arachnoid and pia membranes covering brain and spinal cord.
Meniscus
A fibrocartilage pad that improves knee fit and load distribution.
Menopause
The retrospectively identified end of menstrual cycles after twelve months without bleeding and no other cause.
Mesentery
A double peritoneal fold carrying connections to an organ.
Metabolic acidosis
A primary acid–base disturbance involving reduced bicarbonate or increased non-respiratory acid.
Metastasis
Establishment of cancer growth at a distant site.
Metatarsal
One of the long bones connecting the midfoot to the toes.
Micelle
A small bile-salt-associated structure carrying fat-digestion products.
Microbiome
The microorganisms and their collective biological environment.
Microvilli
Microscopic projections on absorptive cells increasing surface area.
Micturition
The process of urination.
Mineral
A chemical element required for body structure or function.
Mitochondrion
An organelle involved in aerobic ATP production and other functions.
Mitral valve
The valve between the left atrium and left ventricle.
Moment arm
The perpendicular distance from an axis to a force’s line of action.
Monosaccharide
A simple sugar that can be absorbed without further carbohydrate breakdown.
Morphology
The form and appearance of cells or structures.
Motor neuron
A neuron whose output activates muscle fibres.
Motor unit
One motor neuron and all the muscle fibres it innervates.
Mucociliary clearance
Movement of mucus and trapped particles by coordinated ciliary action.
Mucosa
The inner lining of many hollow organs, including epithelium and its supporting tissue.
Mucosal defence
The protective mechanisms that preserve a lining against injury.
Multifidus
Small deep muscles linking spinal levels and contributing to control.
Muscle belly
The fleshy contractile portion of a muscle.
Muscle fibre
A skeletal muscle cell.
Muscle spindle
A receptor within muscle that signals length and changes in length.
Muscularis externa
Major smooth-muscle layers moving digestive contents.
Myelin
An insulating membrane wrapping around some axons.
Myocardial infarction
Death of heart-muscle tissue due to prolonged ischaemia.
Myocardium
The muscular layer of the heart wall.
Myofibril
A contractile structure composed of repeated sarcomeres.
Myometrium
The muscular layer of the uterine wall.
Nail matrix
The growth region that produces the nail plate.
Nasal septum
The partition separating the two sides of the nasal cavity.
Nasolacrimal duct
The drainage passage carrying tears into the nose.
Natriuresis
Excretion of sodium in urine.
Negative feedback
A response that opposes the change that triggered it.
Nephron
The microscopic kidney unit that filters blood plasma and processes filtrate through tubules.
Nerve root
A bundle of nerve fibres linking a spinal nerve with the cord.
Neural tube
An embryonic structure that gives rise to the brain and spinal cord.
Neuromuscular junction
The communication site between a motor neuron and a skeletal muscle fibre.
Neuron
A nerve cell specialised for communication.
Neuropathic pain
Pain caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system.
Neuropathy
Damage or dysfunction affecting peripheral nerves.
Neuroplasticity
The ability of nervous systems to change their structure or function.
Neurotransmitter
A chemical messenger released by a neuron.
Neurovascular bundle
A group of associated nerves and blood vessels.
Neutrophil
A white blood cell important in rapid responses to many infections and injuries, often early in acute inflammation.
Nitric oxide
A local signalling molecule that can relax vascular smooth muscle.
Nociception
Neural detection and processing of potentially harmful stimuli.
Nociceptor
A sensory ending responding to potentially damaging stimuli.
Non-REM sleep
Sleep stages other than REM, including lighter and deeper sleep.
Normal variant
An anatomical difference within the range of ordinary human variation.
Nucleus
A group of neuronal cell bodies within the central nervous system.
Nucleus pulposus
The hydrated inner part of an intervertebral disc.
Oblique section
A section made at an angle to the main anatomical planes.
Obstruction
A blockage that impairs normal flow.
Oedema
Excess fluid in interstitial tissues.
Oesophagus
The muscular tube connecting pharynx and stomach.
Olfaction
The sense of smell.
Olfactory bulb
A brain structure that receives early smell signals.
Olfactory epithelium
Sensory tissue high in the nasal cavity that contains smell receptors.
Oncotic pressure
The osmotic influence associated with proteins in a fluid.
Oocyte
An immature egg cell.
Opposition
Movement bringing the thumb across towards the fingertips.
Opsonisation
Coating a target to make it easier for immune cells to recognise and engulf.
Optic chiasm
The site where nasal retinal axons cross to the other side.
Optimisation
Obtaining adequate information with appropriately limited exposure.
Orbicularis oculi
The muscle that closes the eyelids.
Orbicularis oris
A muscle complex around the mouth that helps close and shape the lips.
Orbit
The bony cavity containing the eyeball and associated structures.
Organ
A structure made of multiple tissue types working together.
Organ system
A group of organs contributing to related body functions.
Osmosis
Net water movement across a selectively permeable membrane towards the side with higher effective solute concentration.
Ossicles
The malleus, incus and stapes: the three middle-ear bones.
Ossification
Formation of bone tissue.
Osteoarthritis
A joint disease involving structural and functional changes in several joint tissues.
Osteoblast
A cell that produces new bone matrix.
Osteon
A cylindrical structural unit in much compact bone.
Otoconia
Tiny calcium-carbonate particles that help gravity and acceleration move sensory structures.
Ovulation
Release of an oocyte from an ovarian follicle.
Palmar arch
An arterial connection in the palm contributing to hand blood supply.
Pancreatic islet
A cluster of endocrine cells in the pancreas.
Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas.
Papilla
A small projection on the tongue; some types contain taste buds.
Paranasal sinus
An air-containing space in a skull or facial bone connected to the nose.
Parasympathetic division
Autonomic pathways often supporting digestion and energy conservation.
Parathyroid gland
A small endocrine gland that releases parathyroid hormone.
Parietal
Associated with a cavity wall.
Parietal cell
A stomach cell secreting acid and intrinsic factor.
Parietal pleura
The membrane lining the chest wall and diaphragm.
Partial pressure
The pressure contributed by one gas within a gas mixture.
Partial-volume averaging
Combining several materials within one image voxel.
Passive immunity
Protection from antibodies received from another source.
Patella
The kneecap within the quadriceps tendon.
Pathogen
An organism or agent capable of causing disease.
Pathology
The study or presence of disease-related structural and functional changes.
Pectoral girdle
The clavicles and scapulae that support the upper limbs.
Pelvic diaphragm
The muscular floor formed mainly by levator ani and coccygeus.
Pelvic girdle
The paired hip bones attaching the lower limbs to the axial skeleton.
Pelvic organ prolapse
Descent of pelvic structures associated with reduced support, often involving vaginal walls or apex.
Pelvic splanchnic nerves
Sacral parasympathetic nerves contributing to pelvic organ control.
Pepsin
A stomach enzyme that digests proteins.
Peptic ulcer
A sore in the stomach or duodenal lining exposed to digestive secretions.
Peptide
A short chain of amino acids.
Perforating vein
A vein connecting superficial and deep venous systems.
Perfusion
Blood flow through tissue capillaries.
Pericardium
The sac surrounding the heart and roots of the great vessels.
Pericranium
The connective-tissue covering on the outside of skull bones.
Perimenopause
The transition around the end of menstrual cycling, often involving variable cycles and hormones.
Perineal body
A central fibromuscular attachment point supporting perineal structures.
Perineum
The region below the pelvic diaphragm between the upper thighs.
Periosteum
The living connective-tissue covering of most outer bone surfaces.
Peripheral nerve
A bundle of axons outside the brain and spinal cord.
Peristalsis
Coordinated contractions that propel contents along a tube.
Peritoneum
The serous membrane lining the abdominal wall and covering many organs.
Permeability
How readily a barrier allows substances to pass.
PET
Imaging that detects paired photons arising after positron emission.
pH
A logarithmic measure of acidity related to hydrogen ion activity; lower pH means greater acidity.
Phagocytosis
Engulfment of particles or cells by another cell.
Pharmacodynamics
How a medicine produces its effects in the body.
Pharmacokinetics
How the body absorbs, distributes, metabolises and eliminates a medicine.
Pharynx
The muscular passage behind the nose and mouth, continuing towards the oesophagus and larynx.
Phonation
Production of sound through vocal-fold vibration.
Phosphate
A mineral-related ion important in bone and many cellular processes.
Phospholipid
A lipid with a water-attracting head and water-avoiding tails.
Photoageing
Skin changes associated with repeated light-related damage.
Photon
A packet of electromagnetic energy.
Photoreceptor
A retinal cell that responds to light.
Phrenic nerve
The principal motor nerve to the diaphragm.
Placenta
A temporary exchange and endocrine organ formed from fetal and maternal tissues.
Plantar aponeurosis
A strong connective-tissue sheet along the sole.
Plantar nerves
Tibial-nerve branches supplying much of the sole.
Plantarflexion
Pointing the foot away from the shin.
Plasma
The fluid component of blood containing dissolved substances and proteins.
Plasma cell
An activated B-cell descendant specialised for antibody secretion.
Platelet
A small blood cell fragment involved in haemostasis.
Pleural effusion
An abnormal collection of fluid in the pleural space.
Pleural recess
A region between pleural surfaces beyond the resting lung edge.
Plexus
A network that redistributes nerve fibres into branches.
Pneumonia
Infection of lung tissue, commonly affecting alveoli.
Pneumothorax
Air within a pleural cavity.
Podocyte
A specialised cell contributing to the glomerular filtration barrier.
Polar body
A small cell formed by an unequal division during oocyte development.
Popliteal
Relating to the region behind the knee.
Portal hypertension
Abnormally increased pressure in the portal venous system.
Positive feedback
A response that amplifies the change that triggered it.
Posterior pituitary
The pituitary portion that releases hormones made by hypothalamic neurons.
Potential space
A normally narrow tissue plane that can widen when material collects.
Pretest probability
The estimated chance of a condition before a particular test.
Prevertebral fascia
Fascia surrounding the vertebral region and associated deep neck muscles.
Profunda femoris
The deep artery supplying much of the thigh.
Progesterone
A hormone that supports a secretory uterine lining and pregnancy-related functions.
Projection
A two-dimensional image formed through overlapping structures.
Pronation
Forearm rotation in which the radius crosses over the ulna.
Proprioception
The sense of body position and movement.
Prostaglandin
A locally acting signalling substance with roles including uterine contraction.
Prostate
A gland below the bladder surrounding the proximal urethra in typical male anatomy.
Protease
An enzyme that breaks down proteins.
Provisional diagnosis
A working diagnosis that may change with further evidence.
Proximal
Closer to a limb’s attachment to the trunk.
PTH
Parathyroid hormone, released mainly when blood calcium is low.
Puberty
The developmental period when reproductive systems mature and adolescent body changes occur.
Pubic symphysis
The fibrocartilaginous joint joining the pubic bones at the front of the pelvis.
Puborectalis
A levator ani component that forms a sling around the anorectal junction.
Pudendal nerve
A somatic nerve supplying much of the perineum and external sphincter control.
Pulmonary artery
An artery carrying blood from the right heart towards the lungs.
Pulmonary circulation
The circulation carrying blood between the heart and lungs.
Pulmonary embolism
Obstruction of a pulmonary artery, commonly by a venous clot.
Pulmonary trunk
The large artery carrying blood from the right ventricle towards the lungs.
Pulmonary vein
A vein returning blood from the lungs to the left atrium.
Pulse sequence
A planned set of MRI pulses and measurements.
Pupil
The opening in the iris through which light enters.
Pyelonephritis
Infection involving the kidney and its collecting system.
Quadrant
One of four areas used to describe abdominal location.
Radial nerve
A major nerve important for upper-limb extension and some skin sensation.
Radicular pain
Pain arising from irritation of a spinal nerve root.
Radiotracer
A radioactive substance used to follow a biological process.
Reabsorption
Movement from tubular fluid back towards the blood.
Receptive field
The region where a stimulus can influence a particular sensory neuron.
Receptor
A protein that recognises a particular signal and starts a response.
Recruitment
Activation of additional motor units to increase force.
Rectocele
A posterior vaginal-wall bulge associated with the rectum.
Rectouterine pouch
A peritoneal recess between the uterus and rectum.
Recurrent laryngeal nerve
A vagal branch important for most intrinsic laryngeal muscle control.
Red marrow
Marrow that produces blood cells.
Reflex
A relatively automatic response organised through a neural circuit.
Reflex arc
The sensory, processing and motor pathway producing a reflex.
Reflux
Backward flow of contents into an upstream region.
Regeneration
Repair that restores tissue through replacement with similar functional cells.
Regurgitation
Backward flow through a valve that does not close effectively.
Relaxation
Return of nuclear magnetisation towards equilibrium after excitation.
REM sleep
A sleep state with rapid eye movements and characteristic brain activity.
Remodelling
Coordinated removal and replacement of existing bone.
Renal cortex
The outer region of the kidney.
Renal medulla
The inner kidney region containing pyramids.
Renal pelvis
The funnel-like collecting region leading to the ureter.
Renin
A kidney-released enzyme that initiates the angiotensin pathway.
Residual volume
Air remaining after maximal expiration.
Resistance
Opposition to flow through a pathway.
Resolution
The ability to distinguish closely spaced objects.
Retina
The light-sensitive neural tissue at the back of the eye.
Retinaculum
A connective-tissue band holding tendons close to a joint.
Retrieval
Bringing previously learned information back into use.
Retronasal smell
Smell arising when molecules travel from the mouth towards the nasal cavity.
Retroperitoneal
Located behind the parietal peritoneum, outside the main peritoneal cavity.
Rima glottidis
The opening between the true vocal folds.
Rod
A sensitive photoreceptor important in dim light.
Rotator cuff
Four scapular muscles and their tendons supporting and moving the shoulder joint.
Sacroiliac joint
A joint between the sacrum and an ilium.
Sagittal plane
A plane dividing right and left portions.
Saliva
Fluid produced by salivary glands that moistens food and supports oral function.
Saphenous nerve
A sensory femoral-nerve branch serving the medial leg and foot.
Saphenous vein
One of the main superficial veins of the lower limb.
Sarcomere
The repeating contractile unit between two Z discs.
Sarcoplasmic reticulum
The muscle cell compartment that stores and releases calcium.
Satellite cell
A muscle-associated stem cell involved in growth and repair.
Saturation
The proportion of haemoglobin oxygen-binding sites occupied.
Scapular winging
Prominence of a scapular border away from the chest wall.
Scapulohumeral rhythm
Coordinated movement of the humerus and scapula during arm elevation.
Scar
Altered connective tissue formed during repair, which may not restore the original architecture.
Scar tissue
Connective tissue formed during repair after injury.
Schwann cell
A peripheral glial cell supporting axons and producing myelin.
Sebum
An oily secretion from sebaceous glands that lubricates skin and hair.
Secretion
Movement from blood or surrounding fluid into the renal tubule.
Selective permeability
The property of allowing some substances to cross more readily than others.
Self-tolerance
Mechanisms that limit harmful immune responses against the tissues of the same body.
Semen
Fluid containing sperm and secretions from reproductive glands.
Semicircular canal
An inner-ear canal specialised for detecting head rotation.
Seminiferous tubule
A coiled testicular tube where sperm develop.
Sensitisation
Increased responsiveness within sensory-processing systems.
Sensitivity
The proportion of people with a condition who test positive.
Sensory receptor
A structure that detects a stimulus and contributes to a neural signal.
Sentinel lymph node
An early draining node identified for a particular tissue region.
Sepsis
Life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated response to infection.
Septum
A wall separating adjacent compartments.
Serratus anterior
A rib-to-scapula muscle helping stabilise and upwardly rotate the scapula.
Shunt
Blood flow that bypasses effective gas exchange.
Sign
An observable or measurable finding.
Sinoatrial node
The heart’s usual primary pacemaker region.
Sinusoid
A specialised small vascular channel that allows exchange in organs such as the liver and bone marrow.
Skeletal muscle
Striated muscle usually moving or stabilising the skeleton.
Skin barrier
The combined surface structures and chemistry that limit water loss and entry of harmful substances.
Sleep pressure
The tendency towards sleep that generally builds during wakefulness.
Smooth muscle
Non-striated muscle in many hollow organs and vessels.
Somatic nerve
A nerve pathway involved in conscious sensation or skeletal-muscle control.
Somatosensation
Sensory information from the body, including touch and position.
Specificity
The proportion without a condition who test negative.
Spectral Doppler
A display of Doppler-derived velocity over time.
Sphincter
A muscle arrangement that controls passage through an opening.
Spinal root
Nerve fibres entering or leaving one spinal cord level.
Spindle-shaped
Tapering towards both ends.
Spirometry
Measurement of exhaled air volumes and flow.
Spleen
An upper-left abdominal organ that surveys blood and helps remove ageing or damaged blood cells.
Sprain
An injury to a ligament.
Stance
The part of gait when the foot contacts the ground.
Stenosis
Abnormal narrowing of an opening or passage.
Stereopsis
Depth perception based on comparing the two eyes’ images.
Sternal angle
The junction between the manubrium and body of the sternum.
Sternocleidomastoid
A major superficial muscle that helps turn and position the head.
Sternum
The breastbone at the front of the chest.
Strain
An injury involving muscle or tendon.
Strap muscles
Thin infrahyoid muscles lying in the anterior neck.
Striation
A repeating banding pattern caused by organised contractile structures.
Stroke volume
The volume ejected by one ventricle in one beat.
Subarachnoid space
The CSF-containing space between arachnoid and pia.
Subchondral bone
Bone immediately beneath articular cartilage.
Submucosa
A supportive layer beneath the mucosa containing vessels and nerves.
Substrate
A molecule on which an enzyme acts.
Sulcus
A groove on the brain surface.
Supination
Forearm rotation returning the radius and ulna to a roughly parallel position.
Suprachiasmatic nucleus
A hypothalamic region that coordinates the central circadian clock.
Surfactant
A substance that reduces surface tension in alveoli.
Suture
A fibrous joint between most skull bones.
Swing
The part of gait when the foot moves through the air.
Sympathetic division
Autonomic pathways often supporting readiness and resource mobilisation.
Sympathetic nervous system
The autonomic division that helps mobilise the body for activity.
Symptom
A bodily experience reported by the person who has it.
Synapse
A specialised contact where a neuron communicates with a target.
Syndesmosis
A ligamentous connection between adjacent bones.
Synergist
A muscle that assists another muscle’s action.
Synovial fluid
Lubricating fluid within a synovial joint.
Synovial joint
A joint with a fluid-containing cavity between articular surfaces.
Synovial membrane
The lining that contributes to synovial fluid.
Synovium
The joint lining that contributes to synovial fluid.
Systemic circulation
The circulation between the left heart and body tissues, returning to the right heart.
Systole
The contraction phase of a heart chamber.
Systolic pressure
The higher arterial pressure during ventricular ejection.
T2-weighted
An MRI contrast pattern emphasising differences in T2 relaxation.
T4
Thyroxine, a major thyroid hormone that can be converted to T3.
Talus
The ankle bone receiving load from the tibia.
Target cell
A cell capable of responding to a particular signal.
Taste bud
A group of sensory cells that responds to dissolved chemicals.
Temporal summation
Addition of tension when activations occur before full relaxation.
Temporomandibular joint
The joint between the mandible and temporal bone.
Tendon
Connective tissue that transmits muscle force, usually to bone.
Thalamus
A deep brain structure coordinating many sensory and other pathways.
Thermoregulation
Control of body temperature through heat production and heat exchange.
Thoracic cavity
The chest compartment above the diaphragm.
Thoracic duct
The main lymphatic duct draining most of the body into veins.
Thoracic inlet
The upper opening connecting the thorax with the neck.
Threshold
The level of stimulation needed to trigger an action potential.
Thrombus
A clot formed within a vessel or the heart.
Thymus
An organ supporting T-cell development and selection.
Thyroid follicle
A small spherical unit in the thyroid where thyroid hormones are made and stored.
Thyroid isthmus
The bridge of thyroid tissue joining the two main lobes.
Tidal volume
Air moved in an ordinary quiet breath.
Tissue
An organised group of cells and surrounding material with related functions.
Tonotopy
An orderly map of sound frequency within a hearing structure.
Torque
The turning effect of a force around an axis.
Trabecula
A small supporting strut or plate within spongy bone.
Tract
A bundle of axons within the central nervous system.
Transcription
Production of an RNA copy using DNA information.
Transducer
A device converting electrical energy to sound and echoes back to signals.
Transient ischaemic attack
Temporary neurological dysfunction due to ischaemia without established infarction.
Translation
In genetics, making a protein from an RNA message; in anatomy, gliding movement without rotation.
Transport maximum
The upper capacity of a transport system.
Transverse plane
A plane dividing upper and lower portions.
Trendelenburg pattern
Pelvic drop associated with insufficient standing-side hip abductor support.
Triceps brachii
The major muscle extending the elbow.
Trigeminal nerve
The fifth cranial nerve, important for facial sensation and chewing.
Troponin
A regulatory protein complex that responds to calcium.
TSH
Pituitary hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland.
Tumour
An abnormal tissue mass, which may be benign or malignant.
Twitch
A brief mechanical response to a single activation.
Tympanic membrane
The eardrum, which vibrates when sound reaches it.
Ulnar nerve
A major nerve supplying most intrinsic hand muscles and little-finger-side sensation.
Ultraviolet radiation
Electromagnetic radiation beyond violet light that can damage skin cells.
Umami
A savoury basic taste associated with substances such as glutamate.
Umbilical vein
The vessel carrying blood from placenta towards fetus.
Umbilicus
The navel, a common abdominal surface landmark.
Upper oesophageal sphincter
A muscular region controlling entry from the pharynx into the oesophagus.
Uptake
Accumulation of a tracer within a tissue.
Urea
A nitrogen-containing waste product made mainly by the liver and excreted by kidneys.
Ureter
A muscular tube carrying urine from a kidney to the bladder.
Urethra
The tube carrying urine from the bladder to the outside.
Urinary bladder
A pelvic organ that stores urine.
Urine culture
A test that grows microorganisms from urine to help identify them.
Urogenital triangle
The anterior part of the perineal diamond.
V/Q ratio
The balance between alveolar ventilation and pulmonary blood flow.
Vaccination
Exposure to a controlled antigen source to prepare protective immune responses.
Vagus nerve
The tenth cranial nerve, carrying mixed functions into the neck, chest and abdomen.
Vas deferens
The muscular duct that transports sperm from the epididymis.
Vasa recta
Specialised capillaries associated with long nephron loops.
Vascular resistance
Opposition to blood flow within vessels.
Vasocongestion
Increased blood filling within a tissue.
Vasoconstriction
Narrowing of blood vessels.
Vasodilation
Widening of blood vessels.
Vein
A blood vessel carrying blood towards the heart.
Vena cava
A major vein returning systemic blood to the right atrium.
Ventilation
Movement of fresh air into and out of the lungs.
Ventilation–perfusion mismatch
An imbalance between air delivery and blood flow in lung regions.
Ventricle
A chamber: a heart ventricle pumps blood, while a brain ventricle contains cerebrospinal fluid.
Venule
A small vessel collecting blood from capillaries towards veins.
Vertebra
One of the bones forming the spinal column.
Vertebral foramen
The opening enclosed by a vertebral body and arch.
Vestibular system
The inner-ear sensors and pathways that help track head motion and orientation.
Vestibule
The space between the labia minora containing urethral and vaginal openings.
Vestibulo-ocular reflex
An eye movement response that stabilises vision during head movement.
Villus
A finger-like projection of small-intestinal mucosa.
Visceral
Associated with the surface of an organ.
Visceral pleura
The membrane covering the lung surface.
Visual field
The area of the scene visible while the eyes stay directed at a point.
Vital capacity
Maximum air exhaled after maximal inspiration.
Vitamin
An organic substance needed in small amounts for normal body function.
Vocal fold
A fold of tissue that can vibrate to generate sound.
Voxel
A small volume element represented in an image dataset.
Vulva
The collective external genital structures surrounding the vaginal opening.
White matter
Nervous tissue containing many axons, often myelinated.
Windlass mechanism
Toe extension tightening plantar fascia and helping stiffen the arch.
Window
The range of image values mapped into displayed grey shades.
Working memory
Temporary use of information for an ongoing task.
Zygote
The single cell formed following fertilisation.
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