Mal Health Dictionary

Threatening life or tending to cause death... malignant

A protozoan disease of humans caused by blood parasites of the species, Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale or P. malariae and transmitted by anopheline mosquitoes. P. falciparum is most likely to cause death, if untreated,. and can also be a great mimicker in its presentation. Malaria should be suspected in anyone with a fever or who is otherwise unwell and has returned from a malarious area.... malaria

A fretful and low energy state, often considered an early sign of infection or low fever. Ask someone with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Multiple Chemical Sensitivities...they’ll tell you how it feels.... malaise

The condition arising from an inadequate or unbalanced DIET. The causes may be a lack of one or more essential nutrients, or inadequate absorption from the intestinal tracts. A diet that is de?cient in CARBOHYDRATE usually contains inadequate PROTEIN, and this type of malnutrition occurs widely in Africa and Asia as a result of poverty, famine or war.... malnutrition

Improper utilization of needed and available nutrients, either from impaired digestive function (such as B12 being unabsorbed because of gastritis), impaired absorption (poor Vitamin E absorption because of an inflamed ileum) or impaired transport (the diminished blood proteins of the advanced alcoholic). There are other causes as well, but you get the idea.... malabsorption

Malacia is a term applied to softening of a part or tissue in disease: for example, OSTEOMALACIA or softening of the bones.... malacia

Organophosphorus insecticide which is a preferred scabicide and pediculocide; applied externally; resistance is rare.... malathion

See DEFORMITIES.... malformation

See MELANOMA.... malignant melanoma

Malingering is a term applied to the feigning of illness. In the great majority of cases, a person who feigns illness has a certain amount of disability, but exaggerates the illness or discomfort for some ulterior motive – for example, to take time o? work or to obtain compensation.... malingering

Deformation of a ?nger due to sudden forced ?exion of the terminal joint, leading to rupture of the tendon. As a result the individual is unable to extend the terminal part of the ?nger, which remains bent forwards. The middle, ring and little ?ngers are most commonly involved. Treatment is by splinting the ?nger. The end result is satisfactory provided that the patient has su?cient patience.... mallet finger

The hammer-shaped lateral bone of the group of three that form the sound-transmitting ossicles in the middle ear. (See EAR.)... malleus

(Gaelic) Woman from the river; resembling the flowering plant Mallowe, Mallo, Malloe, Malow, Malowe, Maloe... mallow

Professional misconduct or failure to apply ordinary skill in the performance of a professional act.... malpractice

A situation during childbirth in which a baby is not in the customary head-?rst position before delivery. The result is usually a complicated labour in which a caesarean operation may be necessary to e?ect the birth. (See PREGNANCY AND LABOUR.)... malpresentation

See BRUCELLOSIS.... malta fever

This term includes a multiplicity of diseases, all of which are characterised by faulty absorption from the INTESTINE of essential foodstu?s such as fat, vitamins and mineral salts. Among the conditions in this syndrome are COELIAC DISEASE, SPRUE, CYSTIC FIBROSIS and pancreatitis (see PANCREAS, DISORDERS OF). Surgical removal of the small intestine also causes the syndrome. Symptoms include ANAEMIA, diarrhoea, OEDEMA, vitamin de?ciencies, weight loss and, in severe cases, MALNUTRITION.... malabsorption syndrome

Luck, Love... male fern

Malignant hypertension has nothing to do with cancer; it derives its name from the fact that, if untreated, it runs a rapidly fatal course. (See HYPERTENSION.)... malignant hypertension

Name of either of the two bony prominences at the ANKLE.... malleolus

An abnormal relationship between the upper and lower sets of teeth when they are closed, affecting the bite (see occlusion) or appearance.

Malocclusion usually develops during childhood. It is inherited, or is caused by thumb-sucking or a mismatch betweenthe teeth and jaws – for example, the combination of large teeth and a small mouth (see overcrowding, dental).

Orthodontic appliances (braces) may be used to move teeth into the proper position, and if there is dental overcrowding, some teeth may be extracted. Orthognathic surgery is used to treat severe recession or protrusion of the lower jaw. Treatment is best carried out in childhood or adolescence.... malocclusion

n. a mixture of carbohydrates, predominantly maltose, produced by the breakdown of starch contained in barley or wheat grains. As well as its use in brewing and distilling, malt has been used as a source of nutrients in wasting diseases.... malt

DC.

Synonym: A. triphysa (Dennst.) Alston.

Family: Simaroubaceae.

Habitat: The evergreen forests of western Ghats from Konkan southwards.

Siddha: Perumaram.

Folk: Guggul-dhuupa. (Maharashtra.)

Action: Bark—febrifuge, carminative (given in typhoid, dyspepsia and constipation). Oleo resin— used for dysentery and bronchitis.

The bark and roots give a number of beta-carboline alkaloids. The resin- uous exudates from trunk give several triterpenoids, including malabaricol and malabaricanediol.... ailanthus malabarica

Rosc.

Family: Zingiberaceae.

Habitat: Eastern Himalayas, Assam, Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, up to 1,500 m, and western Ghats of Kerala.

Folk: Saliyeridumpa (Tamil).

Action: Rhizome—employed to cure sores. Fruits—emetic (used with salt).

The rhizomes yield essential oil consisting of methyl cinnamate as chief constituent.... alpinia malaccensis

(Linn.) R. Br. ex Sims

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: The western Ghats from Maharashtra to Karnataka; Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

English: Malabar Catmint.

Ayurvedic: Sprikkaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Irattaipeyameratti.

Action: Antispasmodic (used in dyspepsia, colic), antipyretic, diaphoretic, antiperiodic, emme- nagogue, antirheumatic. The oil is used externally as an embrocation in rheumatic arthritis.

The plant contains beta-sitosterol, letulinic acid, ovatodiolide and ani- somelic acid. The essential oil from tops and flowers yield a terpene hydrocarbon, citral and geranic acid.... anisomeles malabarica

Roxb.

Family: Caesalpiniaceae.

Habitat: South India, Assam and Bengal.

English: Malabar Mountain Ebony.

Ayurvedic: Ashmantaka var., Kaanchanaara var. (in the South).

Siddha/Tamil: Malaiyatti.

Folk: Aapataa (Maharashtra), Amli, Amlosaa.

Action: Antidysenteric.

The plant contains flavonoid gly- cosides—quercitroside, iso-quercitro- side, rutoside, taxifoline rhamnoside, kaempferol glycosides and quercetol glycoside.... bauhinia malabarica

Malva sylvestyis. N.O. Malvaceae.

Synonym: Cheese Flower, Common Mallow, Mauls.

Habitat: Around ledges and roadsides.

Features ? Several erect, hairy stems, two to three feet high. Leaf and flower stalks also hairy. Roundish leaf has five to seven lobes, middle one longest. Numerous flowers (June-September), large reddish-purple, clustered four or five together on axillary stalk.

Part used ? Flowers, herb.

Action: Demulcent, mucilaginous, pectoral.

1 ounce to 1 pint infusion makes a popular cough and cold remedy.... blue mallow

Malt extract; contains alcohol; sometimes added to herbal preparations.... extracto de malta

Wight.

Family: Oleaceae.

Habitat: Deccan, West Coast, Western Ghats and in the Nilgiris.

Ayurvedic: Mudgara.

Folk: Mogaraa (var.), Ran-mogaraa.

Action: See Jasminum sambac.... jasminum malabaricum

Palm beach-bells (Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri).

Plant Part Used: Leaf.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf: decoction, orally, for pain, infection, inflammation; as a douche, for vaginal infection; added to multi-herb preparations for menstrual disorders, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, menopausal symptoms and tumors.

Safety: Animal studies have shown moderate- to low toxicity when administered orally.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antifertility and contraceptive effects on sperm (leaf juice).

* See entry for Mala madre in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... mala madre

(Poir.) Pers.

Family: Arecaceae; Palmae.

Habitat: A dioecious palm, cultivated in gardens as an ornamental.

English: Double Coconut Palm, Sea Coconut Palm.

Ayurvedic: Samudra-naarikela, Dariyaayee Naariyal.

Unani: Naarjeel-e-Daryaayee, Naarjeel-e-Bahari.

Siddha/Tamil: Kadalthengai, Aklaari.

Action: The water of the green fruit and its soft kernel—antacid and antibilious.

A decoction of the fibrous husk is reported to bring down urinary sugar level in diabetic patients (the effect is temporary).

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofln- dia recommends dried endosperm in gastroenteritis.

Dosage: Dried endosperm—5-10 g powder. (API, Vol.IV.)... lodoicea maldivica

Adhatoda beddomei

Acanthaceae

San:Vasaka, Vasa;

Hin:Adusa; Mal:Chittadalotakam;

Tam:Adutota; Tel:Addasaramu

Importance: Malabar nut or Adhatoda is a large evergreen glabrous perennial shrub, 1.2m in height. It is cultivated for medicinal uses, fencing, manure and as an ornamental plant in pots also. The shrub is the source of the drug vasaka well known in the indigenous systems of medicines for bronchitis. Vasaka leaves, flowers, fruits and roots are extensively used for treating common cold, cough, whooping cough, chronic bronchitis and asthma. It has sedative, expectorant, antispasmodic and anthelmintic actions. The juice of the leaves cures vomiting, thirst, fever, dermatosis, jaundice, phthisis, haematenesis and diseases due to the morbidity of kapha and pitta. The leaf juice is especially used in anaemia and haemorrhage, in traditional medicine. Flowers and leaves are considered efficacious against rheumatic painful swellings and form a good application to scabies and other skin complaints. Many ayurvedic medicines are traditionally prepared out of vasaka like vasarishtam, vasakasavam and vasahareethaki which are effective in various ailments of respiratory system. The drug VASA prepared from this plant forms an ingredient of preparations like Valiya rasnadi kasayam, Chyavanaprasam, Gulgulutiktakam ghrtam, etc. The alkaloid vasicinone isolated from the plant is an ingredient in certain allopathic cough syrups also.

Distribution: Vasaka is distributed all over India upto an altitude of 2000m. This plant grows on wasteland and sometimes it is cultivated also.

Botany: Adhatoda beddomei C.B.Clarke Syn. Justicia beddomei (Clark) Bennet belongs to the family Acanthaceae. This is a large glabrous shrub. Leaves are opposite, ovate, lanceolate and short petioled upto 15cm long, 3.75cm broad, main nerves about 8 pairs. Flowers are white with large bracts, flower heads short, dense or condensed spikes. Fruits are capsules with a long solid base.

Another plant Adhatoda zeylanica Medicus, syn. Adhatoda vasica Nees, Justicia adhatoda Linn. of the same genus is a very closely related plant which is most commonly equated with the drug VASA. This is seen growing wild almost throughout India while A. beddomei is seen more under cultivation. The latter is called Chittadalodakam because of its smaller stature, smaller leaves and flowers.

Agrotechnology: Vasaka is seen almost in all types of climate. It prefers loamy soils with good drainage and high organic content. It can be grown well both in hilly and plain lands. Commercial propagation is by using 15-20cm long terminal cuttings. This is either grown in polybags first, then in the field or planted directly. The plant is cultivated as a pure crop or mixed with plantation crops. The land is ploughed repeatedly to a good tilth and the surface soil is broken upto a depth of 15cm and mixed with fertilizers. The beds are prepared with 1m breadth and 3-4m length. The cuttings are planted during April-May into the beds at a spacing of 30x30cm. FYM is given at 5-10t/ha in the first year. Regular irrigation and weeding are necessary. Harvesting is at the end of second or third year. Roots are collected by digging the seedbeds. Stems are cut 15cm above the root. Stems and roots are usually dried and stored.

Properties and activity: Leaves yield essential oil and an alkaloid vasicine. Roots contain vasicinol and vasicinone. Roots also contain vasicoline, adhatodine, anisotine and vasicolinone. Several alkaloids like quinazoline and valicine are present in this plant.

The plant is bitter, astringent, refrigerant, expectorant, diuretic, antispasmodic, febrifuge, depurative, styptic and tonic. Vasicine is bronchodilator, respiratory stimulant and hypotensive in action, uterine stimulant, uterotonic, abortifacient comparable with oxytocin and methyligin. Uterotonic action of vasicine is mediated through the release of prostaglandins.... malabar nut

(Arabic) A heavenly messenger; an angel

Malaka, Malaika, Malayka, Malaeka, Malake, Malayk, Malaek, Malakia... malak

(Hawaiian) A lighthearted woman Malanah, Malanna, Malannah... malana

Xanthosoma caracu

Description: This plant has soft, arrow-shaped leaves, up to 60 centimeters long. The leaves have no aboveground stems.

Habitat and Distribution: This plant grows widely in the Caribbean region. Look for it in open, sunny fields.

Edible Parts: The tubers are rich in starch. Cook them before eating to destroy a poison contained in all parts of the plant.... malanga

(Hebrew) A great ruler Malanne, Mallann, Mallanne... malann

Anything relating to the cheek. For example, the malar (zygomatic) bone is also known as the cheek bone, and a malar ?ush is reddening of the cheeks.... malar

Allspice (Pimenta dioica).

Plant Part Used: Unripe, dried fruit (“seeds”).

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Seeds: tea (decoction), orally for diabetes, depression, lack of energy, menstrual disorders, internal cleansing, post-partum depression, gastro-intestinal ailments, nausea, stress, anxiety, sinus infection, allergy and respiratory infection.

Safety: Widely used as a culinary spice, generally considered safe; low toxicity shown in animal studies.

Contraindications: No information available on use in children or during pregnancy or lactation.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-hemorrhage due to snake venom (organic plant extract).

In vitro: antioxidant (seed/berry constituents).

* See entry for Malagueta in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... malagueta

Measures taken for protection against malaria, e.g. administration of a drug and personal protective measures that prevent a person from becoming infected with the disease.... malaria prophylaxis

(Indian) Resembling a fragrant flower

Malatie, Malaty, Malatey, Malatee, Malatea... malati

(Spanish) An independent woman; one who is free Malayah... malaya

(Scottish) Feminine form of Malcolm; devotee of St. Columba Malcomeena, Malcomyna, Malcominia, Malcominea, Malcomena, Malcomeina, Malcomiena, Malcomeana... malcomina

(Hungarian) An industrious woman Malcsie, Malcsee, Malcsey, Malcsy, Malksi, Malksie, Malksy, Malksee, Malksey, Malcsea, Malksea... malcsi

See under TESTICLE, DISEASES OF.... maldescended testis

Refers to either a surplus or a shortage of the type of health providers (typically medical practitioners) needed to maintain the health status of a given population at an optimum level. Maldistribution can occur both geographically and by specialty.... maldistribution

(Ethiopian) Born with the rising sun

Maledah... maleda

(Thai / Welsh) Resembling a flower / form of Molly, meaning “star of the sea / from the sea of bitterness” Malie, Malee, Maleigh, Maly, Maley... mali

(Hawaiian) Form of Mary, meaning “star of the sea / from the sea of bitterness” Maliah, Malea, Maleah, Maleia, Maliyah, Maliya, Malya, Malyah... malia

See MALIGNANT HYPERTHERMIA.... malignant hyperpyrexia

This disorder is a rare complication of general ANAESTHESIA caused, it is believed, by a combination of an inhalation anaesthetic (usually HALOTHANE) and a muscle-relaxant drug (usually succinycholine). A life-endangering rise in temperature occurs, with muscular rigidity the ?rst sign. TACHYCARDIA, ACIDOSIS and SHOCK usually ensue. About 1:20,000 patients having general anaesthesia suffer from this disorder, which progresses rapidly and is often fatal. Surgery and anaesthesia must be stopped immediately and appropriate corrective measures taken, including the intravenous administration of DANTROLENE. It is a dominantly inherited genetic condition; therefore, when a case is identi?ed it is most important that relatives are screened.... malignant hyperthermia

See LYMPHOMA.... malignant lymphoma

(Indian) A beautiful woman of great strength

Malihah, Malyha, Maleeha, Maleiha, Maleaha... maliha

(Arabic) Destined to be queen Malikah, Malyka, Maleeka, Maleika, Malieka, Maliika, Maleaka... malika

(Native American) Resembling the salmon

Malilah, Maleela, Maleila, Maliela, Malyla, Maleala... malila

(Hawaiian) A peaceful woman Malinah, Maleena, Maleenah, Malyna, Malynah, Maleina, Maliena, Maleana... malina

(Indian) A gardener Malinie, Maliny, Malinee, Maliney, Malinea... malini

(Russian) As sweet as a little berry Malinkah, Malynka, Maleenka, Malienka, Maleinka, Maleanka... malinka

(Gaelic) A dark beauty Malyse, Malese, Melusina... malise

(Swahili) An accomplished woman Malizah, Maleeza, Malyza, Malieza, Maleaza... maliza

(Hebrew) A queenly woman Malcah, Malkah, Malke, Malkia, Malkie, Milcah, Milka, Milke, Milca, Malha, Malhah... malka

The condition in which it is not possible to extend the terminal part of the toe. It is usually due to muscular imbalance but may be caused by congenital absence of the extensor muscle. A callosity (see CALLOSITIES) often forms on the toe, which may be painful. Should this be troublesome, treatment consists of removal of the terminal phalanx.... mallet toe

(Indian) Resembling jasmine Mallikah, Malleeka, Malleika, Mallieka, Mallyka, Malleaka... mallika

(French) An unlucky young woman; ill-fated

Mallary, Mallerey, Mallery, Malloreigh, Mallorey, Mallori, Mallorie, Malorey, Malori, Malorie, Malory, Malloren, Mallorea, Malorea, Maloree... mallory

Muell.-Arg.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout tropical regions of India.

English: Kamala tree, Monkey Face tree.

Ayurvedic: Kampillaka, Kampilla, Karkash, Raktaanga, Rechan, Chandra.

Unani: Kamilla, Kambilaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Kapli, Kalupatti.

Action: Gland and hair of fruit— purgative, anthelmintic, styptic. Used for the treatment of tapeworm infestation; in scabies, ringworm, herpes. Fruit—hypoglycaemic, spasmolytic, antibacterial.

Capsule hair and glands gave phlo- roglucinol derivatives; rottlerin, isorot- tlerin, iso-allorottlerin (the "red compound") and methylene-b¿s-methyl- phloroacetophenone (the "yellow compound"). The red powder, obtained from capsules, containing largely resinous matter, had lithotropic effect in rats, comparable to drugs used commonly against urinary calculi. Two more compounds designated as kama- lins 1 and 2 have been isolated.

The stem bark contains kamaladiol- 3-acetate and friedelin.

Dosage: Glands and hairs of the fruit—0.5-1.0 g powder. (API, Vol.I.)... mallotus philippensis

(Scottish) A dark-skinned beauty Malmurie, Malmuria, Malmura, Malmuri... malmuira

(Lithuanian) By the grace of God Malona, Malonne, Maloni, Malonie, Malonia, Malony, Maloney, Malonee, Malonea... malone

A combination of PYRIMETHAMINE and DAPSONE which is used for the prevention of MALARIA in limited circumstances. It has the advantage of only needing to be taken once weekly. It should not be taken by anyone hypersensitive to sulphonamides, and should not be used for the treatment of an acute attack.... maloprim

Linn.

Family: Malpighiaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; cultivated in gardens as hedge.

English: Barbados Cherry, Acerola.

Action: Fruits—used in dysentery, diarrhoea and liver disorders. Fruits are rich in ascorbic acid (1,000-4,000 mg/100 g of edible pulp). The bark contains about 26% tannin. Fruits of Brazilian plant gave alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthine.... malpighia glabra

Linn.

Family: Malpighiaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

English: West Indian Cherry.

Folk: Vallari (Telugu), Simeyaranelli (Kannada).

Action: See Malpighia glabra.

Fruits contain ascorbic acid in high concentration (green fruits contain up to 3,000 mg/100 g). 3-methyl-3- buten-1-ol has been identified as major volatile constituent of the fruit.... malpighia punicifolia

Malt beverage; malt beverage; used as a remedy by itself or combined with other ingredients; two main brands: Malta India and Malta Morena; often added to botellas or bebedizos.... malta

German malt beverage; strong, bitter taste; used as a remedy by itself or combined with other ingredients; often added to botellas or bebedizos.... malta alemana

(Hawaiian) A peaceful woman... malu

(Hawaiian) One who rises above Maloona, Malunia, Malunai, Maloonia, Maloonai, Malouna, Malounia, Malounai... maluna

Mill.

Synonym: M. domestica Borkh. M. sylvestris Hort. non-Mill. Pyrus malus Linn. in part.

Family: Rosaceae.

Habitat: Native to Europe and West Asia; now cultivated in Himachal Pradesh., Kashmir, Kulu, Kumaon, Assam and in the Nilgiris.

English: Cultivated Apple.

Ayurvedic: Sinchitikaa.

Folk: Seb, Sev.

Action: Bark—anthelmintic, refrigerant, hypnotic, given in intermittent, remittent and bilious fevers. Leaves—inhibit the growth of a number of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

The fruit contains malic (90-95% of the total acids), citric, lactic and succinic acids; (unripe fruit contains quinic acid, citric acid, succinic acid, lactic acid); caffeic acid derivatives, pectins, minerals and vitamins.

Edible portion of fresh apple contains thiamine 0.12, riboflavin 0.03, niacin 0.2 and ascorbic acid 2 mg/100 g. The ascorbic acid content varies widely and values up to 40 mg/100 g. Sugars constitute about 80% of the total carbohydrates of ripe fruits—fructose (60), glucose (25) and sucrose (15%). The pectin content of the edible portion varies from 0.14 to 0.96% (as calcium pectate). The uronic acid content of apple pectin varies from 0.5 to 15%.

The astringent principles of apple include tannins, tannin derivatives and colouring materials (flavones). The browning of apple slices on exposure to air is due to enzymic oxidation of tannin compounds.

Fresh juice contains 0.20-0.80 malic acid, 11.6 total sugars and 0.02100.080% tannin.

The seeds contain cyanogenic gly- coside, amygdalin (0.62-1.38%, HCN equivalent, 0.037-00.087%).... malus pumila

(Greek) One who is soft and slender Malvah, Malvia, Malvea... malva

Linn.

Synonym: M. neglecta Wall.

Family: Malvaceae.

Habitat: Simla, Kumaon and plains of North India.

English: Round-leaved Mallow, Drawf Mallow, Cheese Cake Flower.

Ayurvedic: Suvarchalaa.

Unani: Khubhaazi, Gul-Khair.

Action: Leaves—demulcent, emollient; used in glycosuria, stomach disorders and as emmenagogue; used as poultice for maturing abscesses. Seeds—demulcent; prescribed in bronchitis, cough, inflammation of the bladder and haemorrhoids.

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a different herb.... malva rotundifolia

Linn.

Family: Malvaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas from Punjab to Kumaon, up to 2,400 m; Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

English: Common Mallow, Blue Mallow, High Mallow.

Ayurvedic: Suvarchalaa (var.).

Unani: Khubbaazi, Bhubhaazi Bustaani, Gul-Khair.

Action: Mucilaginous, emollient, laxative, antitussive, pectoral, antibacterial. Infusion is used for coughs and colds, irritation of the bronchi. Phagocyte stimulant.

Key application: In irritation of the mucosa and throat and dry, irritative cough. (German Commission E.)

The herb contains sulphated flavo- nol glycosides, mucilage and tannins.

Flowers contain malvin (an antho- cyanin), malvidin diglucoside, tannins, carotene and ascorbic acid.

Malva coromandeliana Linn. (also malvastrum) is anti-inflammatory, pectoral, antidysenteric and diaphoretic.... malva sylvestris

(English) Having a smooth brow Malvinah, Malveena, Malveenah, Malviena, Malveina, Malveana, Malvyna, Malvine, Malvyne... malvina

(Latin) A beloved friend Malvenia, Malvinea, Malvenea, Malvynia, Malvynea, Malviniya... malvinia

A sudden increase in the number of people sick with malaria in a particular area (village, town, district).... outbreak of malaria

A beta-adrenoceptor-blocking drug which is of value in the treatment of ANGINA PECTORIS, myocardial infarction (see HEART, DISEASES OF) and HYPERTENSION. It is also used in the treatment of GLAUCOMA. (See also ADRENERGIC RECEPTORS.)... timolol maleate

The most severe form of malaria, caused by the parasitic protozoan PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM.... falciparum malaria

A rapid rise in body temperature to a dangerously high level, brought on by general anaesthesia. The condition is rare. In most cases, susceptibility is inherited; people suffering from certain muscle disorders may also be at risk. The patient’s body temperature rises soon after the anaesthetic is given. Emergency treatment and intensive care are needed.... hyperthermia, malignant

Linn.

Synonym: M. normale D. Don.

Family: Melastomataceae.

Habitat: Moist parts of India, up to 1,800 m.

English: Indian Rhododendron.

Folk: Laakheri, Paalorey (Maharashtra). Tulasi (Nepal). Nakkukappan (Tamil Nadu), Phutuka (Assam).

Action: Leaf—antidiarrhoeal, antiseptic. Locally applied in smallpox to prevent pox-marks. Leaf and flowering top—astringent, antileucorrhoeic. Bark—applied to wounds. Also employed in preparation of gargles.

The leaves gave amino acids—gly- cine, valine, leucine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, methionine, tyrosine, isoleucine and hydroxyproline. The roots gave beta-sitosterol and a tri- terpene, melastomic acid.... melastoma malabathricum

Lam.

Family: Myristicaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats, Kanara and Malabar.

English: Malabar Nutmeg, False Nutmeg, Bombay Nutmeg, Bombay Mace.

Ayurvedic: Paashikaa, Raamapatri, Ku-Jaavitri. Pashupaashi (Kerala).

Siddha/Tamil: Pathiri, Kattu Jhadi.

Action: Topically stimulant; applied to indolent ulcers.

The fruit rind yielded diarylno- nanoids and a lignin, malabaricanol. Leaves gave beta-sitosterol, myristic acid and its triglyceride, trimyristin.

Fat and resin are the major constituents of the Bombay mace. The crude fat (Pundi oil) is used as an embrocation in rheumatism. The bark yields a kino. Ripe fruits form the source of Bombay Nutmeg and Bombay Mace, used as adulterant of Myristica fragrans.

Dosage: Seed kernel—1.5 g powder; oil—1-3 drops. (CCRAS.)... myristica malabarica

The commonest deformity of the PALATE is cleft palate, which is a result of faulty embryonic development in which the two sides of the palate fail to fuse or only fuse in part. If the cleft extends the full length with bilateral clefts at the front of the MAXILLA, it may be accompanied by a cleft lip (also called hare-lip) and disruption in the development of the front teeth. About 1 in 500 babies is born with a cleft lip and 1 in 1,000 has a cleft palate. If the parents are affected, the risk is three times that of the normal population; if one child has a deformity, the risk for a subsequent child is higher. Associated abnormalities include tongue tie, malpositioning of the MANDIBLE and ?uid in the middle EAR.

Cleft palate and hare-lip should be recti?ed by operation, because both are a serious drawback to feeding in early life – while later, harelip is a great dis?gurement, and the voice may be affected. The lip may be dealt with at any time from the neonatal period to a few weeks, depending on the individual surgeon’s view of when the best result is likely to be achieved. Prior to operation, special techniques may be necessary to ensure adequate feeding such as the use of special teats in formula-fed babies. The closure of a large cleft in the palate is a more formidable operation and is better performed when the face has grown somewhat, perhaps at 6–12 months. The operations performed vary greatly in details, but all consist in paring the edges of the gap and drawing the soft parts together across it.

Further operations may be required over the years to improve the appearance of the nose and lip, to make sure that teeth are even, and to improve speech.

Parents of such children can obtain help and advice from the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA).... palate, malformations of

(DC) Schott & Endl.

Synonym: Bombax ceiba Linn. Bombax malabaricum DC. Gossampinus malabarica (DC.) Merr.

Family: Bombacaceae.

Habitat: The hotter parts of India, up to 1,350 m.

Ayurvedic: Shaalmali, Mochaa, Mochaahva, Pichhila, Raktapushpa, Sthiraayu, Kankataadhya, Tuulini. Shaalmali-veshtaka (gum).

Unani: Semal. Mochras (gum).

Siddha: Mul Ilavam. Ielavampisin (gum).

Folk: Semar.

Action: Young roots (Semul- musali)—astringent, (used for dysentery) stimulant, demulcent. Fruits—stimulant, diuretic, expectorant. Used for chronic inflammation of bladder, kidney also for calculus affections. Flowers— astringent and cooling, applied to cutaneous affections. Leaves— anti-inflammatory. Stem bark— demulcent, styptic. Aqueous extract with curd is given for blood- dysentery. Bark—paste is applied to skin eruptions, boils, acne, pimples. Seeds used for chickenpox, smallpox, catarrhal affections, chronic cystitis and genitourinary diseases. Gum—astringent, demulcent, styptic. Used for diarrhoea, dysentery, haemoptysis, bleeding piles, menor- rhagia, spermatorrhoea. Root and pod—used for the treatment of low vitality and debility.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the stem bark in bleeding disorders and in acne vul- garis.

All parts of the plant gave beta- sitosterol and its glucosides; seeds, bark and root bark, lupeol; flowers, hentri- acontane, hentriacontanol; root bark, in addition, gave 7-hydroxycadalene. The seed oil yields arachidic, linoleic, myristic, oleic and palmitic acids; seeds contain carotenes, n-hexacosanol, et- hylgallate and tocopherols; the gum contains gallic and tannic acids, yields L-arbinose, D-galactose, D-galacturo- nic acid and D-galactopyranose.

Younger roots contain more sugars (arabinose and galactose 8.2%) and peptic substances (6.0%) than the older ones. They contain mucilage, starch (71.2%), mineral matter (2.1%), tannins 0.4 and non-tannins 0.1%, along with other constituents.

The Musali compares favourably with the nutritive value of Pueraria tuberosa, Dioscorea bulbifera, Ipomoea digitata and Butea monosperma (all used in sexual debility).

A related species, Salmalia insig- nis (Wall.) Schott & Endl., synonym Bombax insigne Wall. (Assam, Western Ghats and the Andamans); is known as Semul; Dumboil (Assam), Didu (Andamans) and Kal-ilavu (Tamil Nadu).

Dosage: Stem bark—5-10 g powder. (API, Vol. III.) Flower, bark root— 3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... salmalia malabarica

(Linn.) Merrill & Perry.

Synonym: Eugenia malccensis Linn.

Family: Myrtaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Bengal and South India, chiefly in gardens.

English: Malay Apple, Mountain Apple.

Action: Leaves—dried and powdered, used against stomatitis. Bark—astringent; used for making a mouthwash for thrush.

The extracts of seeds, fruits, leaves, stem and bark show varying degree of antibiotic activity against Micrococcus pyogenes var. aureus. An extract of fruits (without seeds) is moderately effective against E. coli and those of bark and leaves against Shigella paradys.

The extracts of the plant, excluding root, affect the rate and amplitude of respiration and also blood pressure.... syzygium malaccense

Miers ex Hook. f.

Synonym: T. sinensis (Lour.) Merrill.

T. tomentosa (Colebr.) Miers.

Family: Menispermaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, ascending to an altitude of 1,000 m.

Ayurvedic: Kandodbhava-guduchi, Vatsaadani, Padma-Guduuchi.

Folk: Gurch.

Action: Fresh leaves and stem are used in chronic rheumatism. Known as "muscle-relaxing vine" in China.

Used as a substitute for T. cordifolia. The plant is an inferior substitute as it contains less of carbohydrates, sterols, alkaloids and tannins.

Alkaloid magnoflorine shows hy- potensive as well as curare-like effect in animals.... tinospora malabarica

Failure to adapt to a change in one’s environment, resulting in inability to cope with work or social activities.

Maladjustment can occur as a reaction to stressful situations, such as divorce or moving house.

There may be feelings of depression or anxiety, or behavioural problems in children and in adolescents.

Maladjustment usually disappears when a person is removed from the stressful situation or adapts to it.... maladjustment

Positioning of teeth in the jaw so that they do not form a smooth arch shape when viewed from above or below (see malocclusion).

Malalignment may also refer to a fracture in which the bone ends are not in a straight line.... malalignment

A high colour over the cheekbones, with a bluish tinge caused by reduced oxygen concentration in the blood.

Malar flush is considered to be a sign of mitral stenosis, which often follows rheumatic fever.

However, malar flush is not always present in mitral stenosis, and many people with this colouring do not have heart disease.... malar flush

A tear at the lower end of the oesophagus, causing vomiting of blood. The syndrome is commonly caused by retching and vomiting after drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Less often, violent coughing, a severe asthma attack, or epileptic convulsions may be the cause.

An endoscope is passed down the oesophagus to confirm the diagnosis. The tear generally heals within 10 days and no special treatment is usually required. However, a blood transfusion may sometimes be necessary.... mallory–weiss syndrome

See vasectomy. ... sterilization, male

a congenital disorder in which there is distortion of the base of the skull with protrusion of the lower brainstem and parts of the cerebellum through the opening for the spinal cord at the base of the skull (see banana and lemon signs). It is associated commonly with *neural tube defects, *hydrocephalus, and a *syringomyelia. [J. Arnold (1835–1915) and H. Chiari (1851–1916), German pathologists]... arnold–chiari malformation

see angioma.... arteriovenous malformation

(Roger’s disease) a form of congenital heart disease in which there is a small *ventricular septal defect that produces a loud heart *murmur. It usually causes no symptoms. [H. L. Roger (1809–91), French physician]... maladie de roger

n. a rare form of chronic inflammatory disorder due to the defective destruction of phagocytosed bacteria. It is characterized by the formation of soft yellow plaques and nodules composed of foamy macrophages containing basophilic cytoplasmic inclusions (Michaelis–Gutmann bodies). Malakoplakia occurs most commonly in the urinary tract but can also occur in the skin.... malakoplakia

see zygomatic bone.... malar bone

n. see proguanil.... malarone

The most serious of the 3 types of skin cancer, the other 2 being basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Malignant melanoma is a tumour of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, and is due to long-term exposure to strong sunlight. There are an increasing number of new cases and deaths in the each year from this skin cancer.

Tumours usually develop on exposed skin but may occur anywhere on the body. A melanoma usually grows from an existing mole, which may enlarge, become lumpy, bleed or crust over, change colour, develop an irregular edge, turn into a scab, or become itchy. Occasionally, a melanoma develops in normal skin. The tumour often spreads to other parts of the body. Diagnosis is by a skin biopsy and the melanoma is removed surgically. Radiotherapy or anticancer drugs may also be necessary.... melanoma, malignant

The male organs involved in the production of sperm and in sexual intercourse. Sperm and male sex hormones (androgen hormones) are produced in the testes, which are suspended in the scrotum. From each testis, sperm pass into an epididymis, where they mature and are stored. Shortly before ejaculation, sperm are propelled into a duct called the vas deferens, which carries the sperm to the seminal vesicles behind the bladder. These 2 sacs produce seminal fluid, which is added to the sperm to produce semen.

Semen travels along 2 ducts to the urethra.

The ducts pass through the prostate gland, which produces secretions that are added to the semen.

At orgasm, semen is ejaculated from the urethra through the erect penis, which is placed in the woman’s vagina during sexual intercourse.... reproductive system, male

(Pityrosporum) n. a genus of yeasts producing superficial infections of the skin. The species M. furfur (including P. orbiculare and P. ovale) causes *pityriasis versicolor.... malassezia

see neurocardiogenic syncope.... malignant vasovagal syndrome

large irregular masses abnormally located in the hepatocytes of the liver. They are found in patients with alcoholic hepatitis, alcoholic cirrhosis, Wilson’s disease, primary biliary cirrhosis, clinical obesity, and hepatoma. [F. B. Mallory (1862–1941), US pathologist]... mallory bodies

a histological stain consisting of water-soluble aniline blue or methyl blue, orange G, and oxalic acid. Before the stain is applied the tissue is mordanted, then treated with acid fuchsin and phosphomolybdic acid. Nuclei stain red, muscle red to orange, nervous tissue lilac, collagen dark blue, and mucus and connective tissue become blue. [F. B. Mallory]... mallory’s triple stain

trauma of the mucosal lining at the junction of the oesophagus (gullet) and stomach following protracted vomiting and retching. It is associated with *haematemesis and rarely perforation of the oesophagus. [G. K. Mallory (1926– ), US pathologist; S. Weiss (1899–1942), US physician]... mallory–weiss syndrome

see MUST.... malnutrition universal screening tool

the part of a *nephron comprising the blood capillaries of the glomerulus and its surrounding Bowman’s capsule. [M. Malpighi (1628–94), Italian anatomist]... malpighian body

the stratum germinativum: one of the layers of the *epidermis.... malpighian layer

n. (in obstetrics) an abnormal position of the fetal head when this is the presenting part in labour (see presentation). The head is in such a position that the diameter of the skull in relation to the pelvic opening is greater than normal (e.g. occipital transverse, occipital posterior: see occiput). This is likely to result in a prolonged and complicated labour.... malposition

n. an enzyme, present in saliva and pancreatic juice, that converts maltose into glucose during digestion.... maltase

(MALT lymphoma) n. a mucosal associated lymphoid tissue tumour of low-grade malignancy, treated by chemotherapeutic agents.... maltoma

n. a sugar that consists of two molecules of glucose. Maltose is formed from the digestion of starch and glycogen and is found in germinating cereal seeds.... maltose

a form of extrinsic allergic *alveolitis seen in people who work with barley.... malt-worker’s lung

n. *union of the fragments of a fracture in an unsatisfactory position. It occurs if fracture *reduction is inadequate or the splintage is inadequate to maintain the bone fragments in the correct position until healing occurs. Malunion may require surgical correction with *osteotomy.... malunion

a life-threatening syndrome seen after starting *antipsychotic medication. It is characterized by confusion, muscle rigidity, fever, pallor and sweating, urinary incontinence, and a high level of *creatine kinase. Its symptoms can appear similar to *catatonia. Treatment in a high-dependency unit with high-dose benzodiazepines and immediate cessation of antipsychotic drugs is usually indicated.... neuroleptic malignant syndrome

(RMI) a scoring system that combines ultrasound findings, menopausal status and age, and serum CA125 levels to give an estimate of the risk of malignancy in a woman with a mass in the Fallopian tubes or ovaries. If the total RMI score is <200 the risk of malignancy is considered to be low. If the total RMI score is >200 the chances of malignancy are raised and management should be planned with a gynaecological oncologist.... risk of malignancy index