On this page, we’ll explore the Definitions and meanings of the most widely used Clinical Terminologies. In the complex world of healthcare, effective communication is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. Clinical terminologies serve as the standardized language that connects healthcare providers, ensuring clarity and consistency in medical records, diagnoses, and treatment plans.
CT Scans
CT (Computed Tomography) is a noninvasive imaging technique that uses a rapid series of X-ray images taken from different angles. A computer then processes these images to create detailed cross-sectional pictures of the examined area.
Ultrasound scan
An ultrasound scan is a noninvasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal organs, fetuses, or blood flow.
MRI
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
MRI is a noninvasive imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body, especially soft tissues like the brain, muscles, and organs.
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that uses a thin, lighted tube that has a video camera to examine the organs in the belly (abdomen) and a woman’s pelvic organs.
Gynaecologist
A medical specialist focused on women’s reproductive health, including pregnancy, childbirth, and disorders of the female reproductive system.
Neonatalologist
A pediatrician specializing in the care of newborn infants, particularly premature or ill babies, in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
Haematologist
A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating blood disorders (e.g., anemia, leukemia, clotting problems).
Paediatrician
A doctor who specializes in the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents.
Physiotherapy
A healthcare professional utilizes physical methods, such as exercise, massage, and electrotherapy, to enhance mobility, improve function, and alleviate pain.
An antigen is any foreign, harmful substance that enters your body. This can include bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, etc.
An antibody is a protein produced by the immune system, specifically by B cells, in response to an antigen.
A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. It is a segment of DNA that contains the instructions for making specific proteins, which determine an organism’s traits and functions.
Steroids are synthetic (man-made) hormones that mimic natural hormones in the body, particularly corticosteroids. They are often used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and autoimmune diseases.
Metabolism refers to the sum of all chemical reactions that occur within the body’s cells. These reactions convert food into energy, build and repair tissues, and regulate body processes necessary for survival.
Chronic diseases are long-term health conditions that are persistent or long-lasting and require continuous medical attention
Dysmenorrhoea refers to Pain during menstruation.
Dyspareunia – a Pain during or after sexual intercourse
Inflammation is the body’s immune response to protect against antigens or injury. Inflammation that happens when no disease or injury causes chronic diseases
Estrogen (Oestrogen)
A group of primary female sex hormones responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system, secondary sexual characteristics, and menstrual cycle.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
A harmful cultural practice involving the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, often leading to severe physical and psychological consequences.
Gonadotrophins
Hormones (e.g., FSH, LH) that stimulate the gonads (ovaries and testes) to produce sex hormones and gametes (eggs/sperm).
Gonorrhoea
A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, affecting the genital tract, rectum, and throat.
Hormones
Chemical messengers secreted by endocrine glands that regulate bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
A fertility treatment where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body in a lab, and the resulting embryo is implanted into the uterus.
Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
A hospital department providing life support and critical care for patients with severe or life-threatening conditions.
Platelets
Small blood cells essential for clotting to prevent excessive bleeding.
Progestogen
A class of hormones (e.g., progesterone) that regulate the uterus, menstrual cycle, and pregnancy.
Prolactin
A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates milk production (lactation) in breastfeeding women.
RhD Antigen
The RHD antigen is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells that plays a pivotal role in determining an individual’s Rh status. Individuals who possess this antigen are classified as Rh-positive, while those who do not are Rh-negative. This distinction is crucial in various medical scenarios, particularly in pregnancy.
Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU)
The Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) is a vital hospital section designed for infants who require more observation and treatment than what is provided in a standard nursery, yet do not need the intensive care offered in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This facility caters to newborns facing health challenges, providing essential monitoring and support to ensure their condition improves before being transferred to the regular nursery.
Syndrome
A group of symptoms and signs that collectively characterize a medical condition (e.g., Down syndrome).
Thrombophilia
A blood disorder that increases the risk of abnormal blood clotting (thrombosis).
Vaginal Discharge
Fluid produced by glands in the vagina and cervix; normal discharge is clear/white, while abnormal discharge may indicate infection.
Vasectomy
A surgical procedure for male sterilization, involving the cutting/sealing of the vas deferens to prevent sperm release.
