Ph Health Dictionary

Inflammation of the mucous membrane and underlying part of the pharynx... pharyngitis

An o?cial publication dealing with the recognised drugs and giving their doses, preparations, sources, and tests. Most countries have a pharmacopoeia of their own. That for Great Britain and Ireland is prepared by the British Pharmacopoeia Commission under the direction of the Medicines Commission. Many hospitals and medical schools have a small pharmacopoeia of their own, giving the prescriptions most commonly dispensed in that particular hospital or school. The British National Formulary is a compact authoritative volume for those concerned with the prescribing or dispensing of medicines.... pharmacopoeia

1 The art or practice of preparing and preserving drugs, and of compounding and dispensing medicines according to the prescriptions of medical practitioners. 2 A place where drugs are dispensed.... pharmacy

The branch of science that deals with the discovery and development of drugs. Those working in it (pharmacologists, doctors, scientists and laboratory technicians) determine the chemical structure and composition of drugs and how these act in the body. They assess the use of drugs in the prevention and treatment of diseases, their side-effects and likely toxicity. This work takes place in universities, hospitals and, in particular, the pharmaceutical industry. The latter has expanded tremendously during the 20th century and in Britain it is now one of the largest business sectors, not only providing the NHS with most of its pharmaceutical requirements but also exporting many medicines to other countries.

Pharmacologists not only research for new drugs, but also look for ways of synthesising them on a large scale. Most importantly, they organise with clinicians the thorough testing of drugs to ensure that these are safe to use, additionally helping to monitor the effects of drugs in regular use so as to identify unforeseen side-effects. Doctors and hospital pharmacists have a special reporting system (‘Yellow Cards’) under which they notify the government’s MEDICINES CONTROL AGENCY of any untoward consequences of drug treatments on their patients (see also MEDICINES).... pharmacology

Mucus in the throat or bronchi.... phlegm

An irrational fear of particular objects or situations. A well-known American medical dictionary lists more than 200 ‘examples’ of phobias, ranging, alphabetically, from fear of air to fear of writing. Included in the list are phobophobia (fear of phobias) and triskaidekaphobia (fear of having 13 sitting at table).

Phobia is a form of obsession, and not uncommonly one of the features of anxiety. Treatment is behavioural therapy complemented in some patients with ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS. Care is needed, as some sufferers can become psychologically dependent on the drugs used to treat them (see DEPENDENCE). Those who suffer from what can be a most distressing condition can obtain help and advice from the Phobics Society. (See also MENTAL ILLNESS.)... phobia

A disorder in which a vascular tumour of the adrenal medulla (see ADRENAL GLANDS) develops. The tumour may also affect the structurally similar tissues associated with the chain of sympathetic nerves. There is uncontrolled and irregular secretion of ADRENALINE and NORADRENALINE with the result that the patient suffers from episodes of high blood pressure (HYPERTENSION), raised heart rate, and headache. Surgery to remove the tumour may be possible; if not, drug treatment may help.... phaeochromocytoma

Cells – including monocytes (a variety of LEUCOCYTES) in the blood and macrophages (see MACROPHAGE) in the tissues – that envelop and digest BACTERIA cells, cell debris and other small particles. Phagocytes are an essential part of the body’s defence mechanisms.... phagocyte

The act of absorbing and digesting fragments, detritus, or whole organisms, as an amoeba does. Granulocytes do this in the body.... phagocytosis

(Plural: phalanges.) The name given to any one of the small bones of the ?ngers and toes. The phalanges are 14 in number in each hand and foot – the thumb and great toe possessing only two each, whilst each of the other ?ngers and toes has three.... phalanx

An alternative name for the PENIS, this word may also be used to describe a penis-like object. In embryology the phallus is the rudimentary penis before the urethral duct has completely developed.... phallus

Following the AMPUTATION of a limb, it is usual for the patient to experience sensations as if the limb were still present. This condition is referred to as a phantom limb. In most patients the sensation passes o? in time.... phantom limb

The way in which the body deals with a drug. This includes the drug’s absorption, distribution in the tissues, METABOLISM, and excretion.... pharmacokinetics

Another name for the throat. The term throat is popularly applied to the region about the front of the neck generally, but in its strict sense it means the irregular cavity into which the nose and mouth open above, from which the larynx and gullet open below, and in which the channel for the air and that for the food cross one another. In its upper part, the EUSTACHIAN TUBES open one on either side, and between them on the back wall grows a mass of glandular tissue – adenoids (see NOSE, DISORDERS OF).... pharynx

An example of the widely used ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS which are classi?ed as MONOAMINE OXIDASE INHIBITORS (MAOIS). The drug is particularly useful because its stimulant e?ect is less than that of most other MAOIs.... phenelzine

See under PENICILLIN.... phenoxymethylpenicillin

Commonly referred to as PKU, this is one of the less common, but very severe, forms of mental de?ciency. The incidence in populations of European origin is around 1 in 15,000 births. The condition is due to the inability of the baby to metabolise the amino acid, phenylalanine (see AMINO ACIDS). In the UK, every newborn baby is screened for PKU by testing a spot of their blood collected by the midwife. A positive diagnosis leads to lifelong treatment with a diet low in phenylalanine, with a good chance that the infant will grow up mentally normal. Parents of children with phenylketonuria can obtain help and information from the National Society for Phenylketonuria (UK) Ltd. (See also METABOLIC DISORDERS; GENETIC DISORDERS – Recessive genes.)... phenylketonuria

Tightness of the foreskin (PREPUCE) which prevents it from being pulled back over the underlying head (glans) of the PENIS. Some phimosis is normal in uncircumcised males until they are six months old. The condition may, however, persist, eventually causing problems with urination. BALANITIS may occur because the inside of the foreskin cannot be properly washed. There may be an increased risk of cancer of the penis. In adolescents and adults with phimosis, erection of the penis is painful. CIRCUMCISION is the treatment.... phimosis

In?ammation of a vein. (See VEINS; VEINS, DISEASES OF.)... phlebitis

The study of the VEINS, particularly by means of X-rays after the veins have been injected with a radio-opaque substance.... phlebography

A traditional name for the operation of bloodletting by opening a vein. (See VEINS; VENESECTION.)... phlebotomy

This is a great reduction in the size of the proximal parts of the limbs. In extreme cases the hands and feet may spring directly from the trunk. A rare condition, it occurred most commonly in children whose mothers took THALIDOMIDE in early pregnancy.... phocomelia

An OPIOID cough suppressant similar to CODEINE; it is not, however, potent enough to suppress severe coughs and is also constipating.... pholcodine

The presence of excess phosphates in the urine. This occurs in...and can even cause, alkaline urine (it’s normally acidic), resulting in cloudy urine, small particle sedimentation, and the more common kinds of kidney stones.... phosphaturia

A non-metallic element whose compounds are widely found in plant and animal tissues. In humans, this element is largely concentrated in BONE. Some phosphorus-containing compounds such as ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE (ATP) and creatine phosphate are essential participants in the conversion and storage of energy that are part of the body’s METABOLISM. Pure phosphorus is toxic.... phosphorus

Coagulation of the tissues of the retina (see EYE) by laser, for treatment of diseases of the retina such as diabetic retinopathy (see under EYE, DISORDERS OF – Retina, disorders of).... photocoagulation

Sensitivity to light. It can occur in MIGRAINE, disorders of the eye, or in MENINGITIS.... photophobia

Abnormal reaction to sunlight. The condition usually occurs as a skin rash appearing in response to light falling on the skin, and it may be caused by substances that have been eaten or applied to the skin. These are called photosensitisers and may be dyes, chemicals in soaps, or drugs. Sometimes plants act as photosensitisers – for example, buttercups and mustard. The condition may occur in some illnesses such as lupus erythematosus (see under LUPUS).... photosensitivity

Physiology is the branch of medical science that deals with the healthy functions of di?erent organs, and the changes that the whole body undergoes in the course of its activities. The teaching of physiology is a basic part of the medical student’s initial education.... physiology

An important treatment involving the use of physical measures, such as exercise, heat, manipulation and remedial exercises in the treatment of disease. An alternative name is PHYSICAL MEDICINE. It is an essential part of the rehabilitation of convalescent or disabled patients. Those who practise physiotherapy – physiotherapists – have a recognised training and, on successful completion of this, are placed on the profession’s o?cial register (see APPENDIX 8: PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATIONS.)... physiotherapy

The British Pharmacopoeia name for vitamin K. (See APPENDIX 5: VITAMINS.)... phytomenadione

Botanical or herbal medicine, often with a heavy emphasis on studies and monographs and their medical implications (with virtually none from North America), and with a philosophy of “little drug” medical uses and the reliance on the European phytopharmaceutical industry (where the studies came from). No judgment here; this approach is of great value to physicians, since it offers clear implications for medical use. This approach is, however, medical and mechanistic, not vitalist and wholistic... phytotherapy

Also called pharmacogenetics – the use of human genetic variations to optimise the discovery and development of drugs and the treatment of patients. The human race varies much more in its genetic make-up than has previously been realised; these variations in GENES and their PROTEIN products could be utilised to provide safer and more e?ective drugs. Genes affect drug absorption, distribution, METABOLISM and excretion. Drugs are designed and prescribed on the basis of a population’s needs, but patients comprise a diverse range of individuals. For example, nearly one-third of patients fail to respond to the cholesterol-reducing group of drugs, the STATINS. Around half do not respond to the tricyclic ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS. Over 80 per cent of patients’ responses to drugs depends on their genetics: this genetic variation needs to be identi?ed so as to make the prescription of drugs more e?ective, and technology for analysing genetic variants is progressing. Assessing drug e?ectiveness, however, is not simple because the health and diets of individuals are di?erent and this can affect the response to a drug. Even so, the genetic identi?cation of people who would or would not respond to a particular drug should bene?t patients by ensuring a more accurately targeted drug and by reducing the risks to a person of side-effects from taking a drug that would not work. There would also be substantial economic savings.... pharmacogenomics

A synthetic anticoagulant (see ANTICOAGULANTS). Given by mouth, it is used to prevent the formation of clots in the blood in rheumatic heart disease and atrial ?brillation (see HEART, DISEASES OF); as prophylaxis after insertion of a prosthetic heart valve; and as prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. It is slower in action than WARFARIN, not achieving its full anticoagulant e?ect until up to 48 hours after the initial dose. The drug should be avoided in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, and whenever severe hypersensitivity reactions have previously occurred. Adverse effects include rashes, fever, LEUCOPENIA, AGRANULOCYTOSIS, diarrhoea and pink urine; breast feeding should be avoided.... phenindione

Another name for CARBOLIC ACID.... phenol

A group of major antipsychotic drugs, colloquially called ‘TRANQUILLISERS’, widely used to treat psychoses (see PSYCHOSIS). They can be divided into three main groups. Chlorpromazine, methotrimeprazine and promazine are examples of group 1, usually characterised by their sedative effects and moderate antimuscarinic and extrapyramidal side-effects. Group 2 includes pericyazine, pipothiazine and thioridazine, which have moderate sedative effects but signi?cant antimuscarinic action and modest extrapyramidal side-effects. Fluphenazine, perphenazine, prochlorperazine and tri?uoperazine comprise group 3. Their sedative effects are less than for the other groups and they have little antimuscarinic action; they have marked extrapyramidal side-effects.

Uses Phenothiazines should be prescribed and used with care. The drugs di?er in predominant actions and side-effects; selection depends on the extent of sedation required and the susceptibility of the patient to extrapyramidal side-effects. The di?erences between the drugs, however, are less important than the variabilities in patients’ responses. Patients should not be prescribed more than one antipsychotic drug at a time. In the short term these therapeutically powerful drugs can be used to calm disturbed patients, whatever the underlying condition (which might have a physical or psychiatric basis). They also alleviate acute anxiety and some have antidepressant properties, while others worsen DEPRESSION (see also MENTAL ILLNESS).... phenothiazines

An individual’s characteristics as determined by the interaction between his or her genotype – quota of GENES – and the environment.... phenotype

An alpha-adrenoceptor blocking drug (see ADRENERGIC RECEPTORS) used in the treatment of HYPERTENSION caused by PHAEOCHROMOCYTOMA.... phenoxybenzamine

A natural amino acid (see AMINO ACIDS) essential for growth in infants, and for nitrogen metabolism in adults.... phenylalanine

The term applied to a small stone formed in a vein (see VEINS) as a result of calci?cation of a THROMBUS.... phlebolith

The production of vocal sounds – in particular, speech.... phonation

Salts of phosphoric acid. As this substance is contained in many articles of food as well as in bone, the nuclei of cells, and the nervous system, phosphates are constantly excreted in the URINE. The continued use of an excess of food containing alkalis, such as green vegetables, and still more the presence in the urine of bacteria which lead to its decomposition, produce the necessary change from the natural mild acidity to alkalinity, and lead to the deposit of phosphates and to their collection into stones.... phosphates

A LIPID, the molecule of which contains a chemical derivative of PHOSPHORUS called phosphate. This type of lipid, which includes cephalins, lecithins and plasmalogens, is found in all tissues and organs, especially the BRAIN. Phospholipids are produced in the LIVER and and take part in many of the body’s metabolic activities (see METABOLISM).... phospholipid

A form of treatment in which deliberate exposure to a photosensitising drug and ultraviolet light bene?ts certain skin diseases, particularly PSORIASIS and T-cell LYMPHOMA. A psoralen is the photoactive agent which reacts with long-wave ultraviolet light (UVA), giving the acronym, PUVA therapy.... photochemotherapy

This comprises a photosensitising agent (one activated by light), which accumulates in malignant tissue, and a source of light that activates the photosensitiser, triggering it to generate highly reactive oxygen compounds that destroy malignant cells. One such photosensitiser is temopor?n. Photodynamic therapy is used to treat various types of malignancy; a recognised complication is photosensitivity, when a patient may suffer burns after transient exposure to sunlight. Photodynamic therapy is increasingly used and photosensitivity reactions may also become more common.... photodynamic therapy

This is a description of the ?ashing lights which are a not uncommon AURA preceding an attack of MIGRAINE.... photopsia

The method by which green plants and some bacteria produce CARBOHYDRATE from water and carbon dioxide. They use energy absorbed from the sun’s rays by a green pigment in the organism called chlorophyll. Photosynthesis is one of the earth’s fundamental biological processes. As well as converting the carbon dioxide into the essential biological compound carbohydrate, the process removes the gas from the atmosphere where, if it builds to excess, the atmospheric temperature rises, thus contributing to global warming.... photosynthesis

The NERVE which chie?y supplies the DIAPHRAGM. A phrenic nerve arises on each side of the SPINAL CORD from the third, fourth and ?fth cervical spinal nerves; both follow a long course down the neck, and through the chest to the diaphragm. They play a key part in RESPIRATION through control of the diaphragm. Injury to one nerve paralyses one half of the diaphragm. Occasionally the phrenic nerve may be surgically crushed as part of the treatment to repair a HIATUS HERNIA or, rarely, to stop intractable hiccups.... phrenic nerve

A quack method, common in the Victorian era, allegedly to study the mind and character of individuals from the shape of the head. As the shape of the head has been shown to depend chie?y upon accidental characteristics, such as the size of the air spaces in the bones, and not upon development of special areas in the contained brain, there is no scienti?c basis for the practice.... phrenology

A historical term means wasting, and was applied to that progressive enfeeblement and loss of weight that arose from tuberculous disease of all kinds, but especially from the disease as it affected the lungs (see TUBERCULOSIS).... phthisis

That part of a patient’s consultation with a doctor in which the doctor looks, feels (palpates) and listens to (auscultates) various parts of the patient’s body. Along with the history of the patient’s symptoms, this enables the doctor to assess the patient’s condition and decide whether an immediate diagnosis is possible or whether laboratory or imaging investigations are needed to reach a diagnosis. A full physical examination may take 30 minutes or more. Physical examination, along with certain standard investigations, is done when a person attends for a ‘preventive’ check-up of his or her state of health.... physical examination

A medical specialty founded in 1931 and recognised by the Royal College of Physicians of London in 1972. Physical-medicine specialists started by treating rheumatic diseases; subsequently their work developed to include the diagnosis and rehabilitation of people with physical handicaps. The specialty has now been combined with that of RHEUMATOLOGY. (See also PHYSIOTHERAPY.)... physical medicine

Professional person qualified by education and authorised by law to practise medicine. In certain countries refers to a specialist in internal medicine.... physician

Also known as eserine. An alkaloid (see ALKALOIDS) obtained from Calabar bean, the seed of Physostigma venenosum, a climbing plant of West Africa. Its action depends on the presence of two alkaloids, the one known as physostigmine or eserine, the other as calabarine, the former of these being much the more important.

Action Physostigmine produces the same e?ect as stimulation of the PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM: i.e. it constricts the pupil of the eye, stimulates the gut, increases the secretion of saliva, stimulates the bladder, and increases the irritability of voluntary muscle. In poisonous doses it brings on a general paralysis.

Uses It is used in medicine in the form of eye drops or ointment to treat GLAUCOMA.... physostigmine

The small bones that make up the fingers, thumb, and toes.

The thumb and big toe have 2 phalanges; all the other fingers and toes have 3.... phalanges

Any medicinal drug.

The term is also used in relation to the manufacture and sale of drugs.... pharmaceutical

The study or knowledge of the pharmacologically active ingredients of plants.... pharmacognosy

See oesophageal diverticulum.... pharyngeal pouch

A barbiturate drug used mainly as an anticonvulsant. It is often used with phenytoin to treat epilepsy. Possible side effects include drowsiness, clumsiness, dizziness, excitement, and confusion.... phenobarbital

A decongestant drug used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and the common cold. As eye-drops, it is used to dilate the pupils for eye examinations. High doses or prolonged use of nasal preparations may cause headache and blurred vision; stopping taking the drug suddenly may make nasal congestion worse.... phenylephrine

An anticonvulsant drug used to treat epilepsy and trigeminal neuralgia.

Side effects include nausea, dizziness, tremor, and overgrown and tender gums.... phenytoin

A surgical treatment for astigmatism, myopia, and hypermetropia, in which areas of the cornea are shaved away by laser.... photorefractive keratectomy

Treatment with light, including sunlight, ultraviolet light, blue light, or lasers. Moderate exposure to sunlight is the most basic form, and is often helpful in treating psoriasis.

PUVA combines the use of long-wave ultraviolet light with a psoralen drug, which sensitizes the skin to light. This is used to treat psoriasis and other skin diseases such as vitiligo. Psoriasis may also be treated using short-wave ultraviolet light, sometimes combined with the application of coal tar.

Visible blue light is used to treat neonatal jaundice (see jaundice, neonatal), which is due to high levels of the pigment bilirubin in the blood. In phototherapy, bilirubin is converted into a harmless substance that can be excreted. To maximize exposure, the baby is undressed and placed under the lights in an incubator to keep him warm.phrenic nerve One of the pair of main nerves supplying the diaphragm. Each phrenic nerve carries motor impulses to the diaphragm, and plays a part in controlling breathing. Injury to, or surgical cutting of, 1 of the nerves results in paralysis of 1 half of the diaphragm.... phototherapy

n. a unit of loudness of sound. The intensity of a sound to be measured is compared by the human ear to a reference tone of 2 × 10?5 pascal sound pressure and 1000 hertz frequency. The intensity of the reference tone is increased until it appears to be equal in loudness to the sound being measured; the loudness of this sound in phons is then equal to the number of decibels by which the reference tone has had to be increased.... phon

See PHARMACOPOEIA.... british pharmacopoeia

Linn.f.

Synonym: C. multiflorum (Burm. f.) O. Kuntze.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in the drier parts.

Ayurvedic: Agnimantha, Tarkaari, Vikraantaa, Jayanti, Jai, Jayaa, Ganikaarikaa, Vaijayanti, Bigger var. is equated with Premna integri- folia Linn., Shriparni, Naadeyi.

Siddha/Tamil: Tazhuthaazhai.

Folk: Laghu Arni.

Action: Plant parts used in dyspepsia, stomachache, colic, cholera, dysentery, postnatal fever, during convalscence from measles. Root and bark—bitter tonic, used in debility and nervous disorders.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicated the use of root in dysuria and retention of urine.

Flavonoids, scutellarein and pec- tolinarin, have been isolated from the leaves. Stems gave d-mannitol, beta- sitosterol, its glucosides and ceryl alcohol. The roots contain ceryl alcohol, clerodin, clerosterol and clerodendrin A.

The ethanolic extract of leaves exhibited hepatoprotective activity. The aqueous extract of leaves exhibited in vitro anthelmintic activity. The plant also exhibited antidiabetic activity.

Dosage: Root—12-24 g for decoction. (API Vol. III.)... clerodendrum phlomidis

A doctor who works in the specialty that encompasses PREVENTIVE MEDICINE, EPIDEMIOLOGY and PUBLIC HEALTH.... community physician

An ENZYME that performs an essential function in the metabolism of CARBOHYDRATE. A de?ciency in this enzyme – acronym G6PD – results in the breakdown of ERYTHROCYTES (HAEMOLYSIS), usually in the presence of oxidants (see OXIDANT) such as infections or drugs. The de?ciency disorder is a hereditary condition in which the enzyme is absent. The condition, characterised by pallor, rigors and pain in the loin, is divided into African, European (including FAVISM) and Oriental types. Sufferers should avoid substances that trigger haemolysis. Acute episodes are best treated symptomatically.... glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase

A deficiency in the enzyme G6PD resulting in a haemolytic anaemia. This haemoglobinopathy contraindicates the use of the 4-aminoquinolines such as primaquine for the radical treatment of benign tertian and ovale tertian malaria.... glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (g6pd) deficiency

Commonly known as fireweed, Lytocarpus is a stinging hydroid (hydrozoan) that grows on pilings, rocks and overhangs in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world. Skin contact causes an itchy vesicular rash.... lytocarpus philippinus

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

Linn.

Family: Sterculiaceae.

Habitat: A shrub cultivated as an ornamental throughout the hotter parts of India.

Ayurvedic: Bandhujiva, Bandhuuka, Arkavallabha.

Folk: Gul-dupahariaa.

Action: Capsule—mucilaginous, used for the diseases of the bowels; a decoction is used as emollient. Root—astringent, antibilious, antiphlegmonous, febrifuge.... pentapetes phoenicea

(Greek) A bright woman; in mythology, the wife of Theseus Phadra, Phaidra, Phedra, Phaydra, Phedre, Phaedre... phaedra

(Asian) One who shares with others... phan

The term applied to an imaginary appearance or daydream.... phantasy

Health professionals trained in the preparation and dispensing of medicines; in England, Scotland and Wales they are registered (after acquiring the relevant professional quali?cations) by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. Northern Ireland has its own registration body. Registered pharmacists are a vital branch of health care. They dispense P (pharmacy-only) and POM (prescription-only medicines) products; those working in community (retail) pharmacies also sell over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, providing, where appropriate, advice on their use. (See also MEDICINES.)

Pharmacists work in hospitals (NHS and private) and in community pharmacies, as well as in the pharmaceutical industry where they conduct research and prepare and test pharmaceutical products. They have particular expertise on the use of drugs: for instance, the way in which one medicinal compound can affect another and their possible adverse effects; and they advise doctors and patients on these aspects. The NHS is also encouraging community pharmacists to o?er the public advice on the treatment of simple illnesses such as coughs, colds, headaches and stomach upsets. Hospital pharmacists are salaried employees of the NHS but community pharmacists enter into contract with the service, the terms of which are negotiated centrally between pharmacists’ representatives and the health departments. Hospital pharmacists are now invited by the COMMITTEE ON SAFETY OF MEDICINES (CSM) to report suspected adverse drug reactions under the ‘Yellow Card’ scheme in the same way as doctors.... pharmacists

See PHARMACOGENOMICS.... pharmacogenetics

Pain in the pharynx... pharyngodynia

Any disease of the pharynx... pharyngopathy

G. F. W. Mey.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in the plains.

Ayurvedic: Aranya-mudga. Mudga- parni (Kerala).

Siddha/Tamil: Kattupayaru.

Action: A decoction is used in bowel complaints and stricture. The roots are used to stop excessive salivation.... phaseolus adenanthus

Jacq.

Synonym: Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq.) Marechal.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India. Cultivated.

English: Aconite-Bean, Moth.

Ayurvedic: Makushtha, Moth.

Siddha/Tamil: Tulukkapayir.

Action: Seeds—used as a diet in fever; contains 24.4% protein. Root—narcotic.... phaseolus aconitifolius

Linn.

Synonym: P. inamoenus Linn.

Family: Fabaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; cultivated throughout India.

English: Double Bean, Lima Bean, Burma Bean.

Ayurvedic: Shimbi.

Unani: Lobiyaa, Sem.

Action: Seeds—astringent. Used as a diet in fever. The shoots and pods from Manipur are reported to contain alkaloids, saponins and flavonoids.... phaseolus lunatus

Linn. non-Roxb. & auct.

Synonym: Vigna mungo (Linn.) Hepper.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

English: Kidney Bean, Black Gram.

Ayurvedic: Maasha. (P. sublobatus Roxb. and Teramnus labialis Spreng. are equated with Maashaparni; dried aerial parts are used.) Phaseolus dalzellii Cooke and P. sublobatus Roxb. are known as Maashaparni in Kerala.

Unani: Urd-Siyaah.

Siddha/Tamil: Ulunthu.

Action: Used as a pulse. In the form of a confection, used for leucorrhoea and seminal debility. Oil extracts of the pulse is used externally in rheumatism, contracted knee, stiff shoulder. Root—used as a poultice for inflammations and abscesses. Narcotic.

Teramnus labialis Spreng. (grows wild): The whole plant is used in rheumatism, paralysis, nervous diseases, haemoptysis and catarrh of respiratory tract.... phaseolus mungo

Linn. non-Roxb. & auct.

Vigna radiata (Linn.)

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Extensively cultivated all over India.

English: Greengram, Golden Gram.

Ayurvedic: Mudga, Mungalya.

Unani: Moong.

Siddha/Tamil: Pattishai-payaru.

Action: Used as a pulse. Soup is given as a diet to patients of enlarged liver and spleen, and after recovery from acute illness. A poultice of it is used for checking secretion of milk and reducing distention of the mammary glands.... phaseolus radiatus

(American) One who is decorated

Phashesthea, Phashesthia, Phashesthiya... phashestha

(Vietnamese) A faithful woman Pheakkly, Pheakkli, Pheakklie, Pheakklee, Pheakkleigh, Pheakklea... pheakkley

(Greek) One who smiles a lot Phebah, Phiba, Phibah... pheba

(Greek) In mythology, the personification of fame

Phemie, Phemia, Phemi, Phemy, Phemey, Phemee, Phemea... pheme

A powerful analgesic which can be given under the tongue if nausea and vomiting are a problem.... phenazocine hydrobromide

(American) One who enjoys life Phenyce, Phenise, Phenyse, Phenicia, Phenicea... phenice

The British Pharmacopoeia name for one of the most widely used of all the group of drugs called BARBITURATES. It was mainly used in combination with PHENYTOIN SODIUM as an anticonvulsant drug in the control of EPILEPSY, but has been superceded largely by newer and safer anti-epileptic drugs.... phenobarbitone

sensu Ait. & auct.

Synonym: Vigna trilobata (Linn.) Verdcourt.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, up to an elevation of 2,100 m in the northeast.

English: Wild Gram.

Ayurvedic: Mudgaparni, Kaaka- parni, Suuryaparni, Alpikaa, Sahaa, Kaakamudraa, Maarjaargandhikaa. (P. adenanthus G. F. W., and Vigna pilosa Baker are used as Mudgaparni in the South. Dried aerial parts, root and seed are used.)

Siddha/Tamil: Kaatupayaru.

Folk: Jangali Moong, Mugavan.

Action: Whole plant—febrifuge. Leaves—sedative, cooling, an- tibilious. A decoction is used in intermittent fever. The plant contains friedelin, epifriedelin, stigmasterol and tannins. The bean contains methionine, tryptophan and tyrosine; also strepogenin, uridine, diphosphate-galacturonic acid. The seed protein contained lysine, valine, leucine and phenyl- alanine.

Dosage: Seed—50-100 ml. decoction (CCRAS.); whole plant— 3-5 g. (API, Vol. IV.)... phaseolus trilobus

Linn.

Synonym: P. nanus Linn.

Family: Fabaceae.

English: Kidney Bean, French Bean, Haricot Bean.

Unani: Raajmah (seed), Lobia, Frashbean.

Action: Bean—diuretic, hypotensive, resolvent, regulates blood sugar. Used for water retention; albuminuria, especially of pregnancy; premenstrual tension.

Key application: Seed-free pods—in supportive treatment for inability to urinate. (German Commission E.)

The seeds of French Bean contain triterpenoid glucosides and soyasaponin V.

Raajmah consumption by diabetic patients is reported to produce highly significant reduction in their blood glucose level and glycaemic index, as compared to wheat and rice consumption.

Raw bean contains lectins which are destroyed when cooked. Its hypogly- caemic activity is most likely due to its chromium, trigonelline and fiber content. (Sharon M. Herr.)... phaseolus vulgaris

See PERMETHRIN.... phenothrin

(African) A victorious woman... phenyo

An older drug for the treatment of EPILEPSY. It is not now widely used, as it is di?cult to determine the precise dose to avoid ill-effects and long-term use leads to changes to the facial appearance. However, the drug is still used for the quick control of an apparently uncontrollable epileptic ?t, and after head injury or neurosurgery.... phenytoin sodium

(Greek) A supreme gift Pheodorah, Phedora, Phedorah... pheodora

(American) A well-spoken woman Pherneeta, Phernyta, Phernieta, Pherneita, Pherneata... phernita

Chemicals produced and emitted by an individual which produce changes in the social or sexual behaviour when perceived by other individuals of the same species. The precise role of these odours – for it is by their smell that they are recognised – in humans is still not clear, but there is growing evidence of the part they play in the animal kingdom. Thus, if a strange male rat is put into a group of female rats, this may cause death of the fetus in any pregnant rats, and this is attributed to the pheromones emitted by the male rat.... pheromones

(Italian) A saintly woman Phiah, Phea, Pheah... phia

(Greek) One who offers sisterly love

Philly, Phillie, Philli, Philley, Phillee, Phillea... philadelphia

(Greek) One who adores mankind Philena, Philanna, Philanne, Philenne, Philenna, Philene, Phileane, Phileene... philana

(Greek) A woman who loves flowers

Philanthia, Philanthea, Philanthiya... philantha

(English) Feminine form of Philibert; one who is dearly loved Philiberta, Philbertha, Philibertha, Philberte, Philiberte, Philiberthe, Philberthe... philberta

(Greek) Feminine form of Philo; one who loves and is loved Phila... phile

(English) Feminine form of Philip; a friend of horses

Phillippa, Philipa, Phillipa, Philipinna, Philippine, Phillipina, Phillipine, Pilis, Pippa... philippa

(Greek) A loving woman Phileese, Philease, Phileise, Philiese, Philyse, Philese... philise

(Greek) Resembling a nightingale Philomela, Philomele, Philomell, Philomelle, Philomella... philomel

(English) A friend of strength Philomina, Philomeena, Philomyna, Philomenia, Philominia, Philomeenia, Philomynia, Phiomeana... philomena

(Greek) A woman who loves music Philyre, Philyria, Philyrea... philyra

(Scottish) Form of Fiona, meaning “one who is fair; a white-shouldered woman”

Phionna, Phyona, Phyonna, Phione, Phionne, Phyone, Phyonne... phiona

(Greek) One who loves music Phirah, Pheera, Pheerah, Phiera, Phierah, Pheira, Pheirah, Pheara, Phearah... phira

A group of biting flies commonly called sandflies including the genus Phlebotomus, sometimes vectors of leishmaniasis.... phlebotomine

A HYPERSENSITIVITY reaction of the conjunctiva (see EYE). At the turn of the century the most common cause was TUBERCULOSIS; nowadays it is most commonly due to hypersensitivity to staphylococci (see STAPHYLOCOCCUS).... phlyctenule

(Greek) A bright, shining woman; in mythology, another name for the goddess of the moon

Phebe, Phoebi, Phebi, Phoebie, Phebie, Pheobe, Phoebee, Phoebea, Phebee, Phebea... phoebe

Nees.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: The sub-tropical Himalayas, Upper Gangetic Plain, Bihar, North Bengal and Assam.

Folk: Dieng-soh kajut (Meghalaya), Chuhai (Bihar), Titaaphul (Assam).

Action: Whole plant—used like Adhatoda vasica in whooping cough and menorrhagia. Fruits and leaves—burnt and prescribed for fevers. The leaves are reported to contain diterpene lactone, phlogantholide A and its glucoside.

A related species, P. jenkinsii C. B. Clarke, found in Assam, is also known as Titaaphul. A decoction of leaves is given for diseases of spleen and liver and for fevers.... phlogacanthus thyrsiflorus

(Greek) Resembling a mystical bird Phoenah, Phoenna, Phena, Phenna... phoena

(Greek) A dark-red color; in mythology, an immortal bird Phuong, Phoenyx... phoenix

Linn.

Family: Palmae; Arecaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Punjab and Rajasthan.

English: Date Palm.

Ayurvedic: Kharjuura, Kharjuuraka, Kharjuurikaa. Pindakharjuurikaa. Chhuhaaraa (dry date). Pindakhar- juura is the fruit of Phoenix acaulis Roxb.

Unani: Khurmaa, Khajuur, Chhuharaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Perichchankay, Ita.

Action: Fruit pulp—antitussive, expectorant, demulcent, laxative, diuretic, restorative. Sap—cooling, laxative. Gum—used in diarrhoea and genitourinary diseases.

The fruit contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C), carotene (as vitamin A), nicotinic acid, riboflavin, thiamine, sugars (60-80%). Besides sucrose and invert sugars, rhamnose, xylose, ara- binose, ribose, galactose and galac- turonic acid have been identified in the fruit. Invert sugar predominates in the soft dates; sucrose in dry varieties. The dried date, used in Ayurvedic and Unani compositions, contains protein 2.5-3, fat 0.5, carbohydrates 75.882.9% and calcium 35.9, phosphorus 129.3 and iron 3.4 mg/100 g. Presence of sterols of ergosterol group, and esterone has been reported from dried date seeds.

Charged C-glycosylflavones and caf- feylshikimic acid, leucocyanidin are characteristically present in the plant. Flavonol glycosides are also common. Several uncharged C-glycosylflavones were also detected.

Dosage: Fresh fruit—10-50 g, dried fruit—10-15 g. (API, Vol. IV.)... phoenix dactylifera

Roxb.

Family: Palmae.

Habitat: Coastal swamps of West Bengal (particularly Sundarbans), Orissa and the Andamans.

Ayurvedic: Hintala.

Folk: Hital (Orissa), Hintalamu (Telugu).

Action: Fruits—antiphlogistic, cooling; used in flatulence.

Triacontanol, beta-sitosterol have been isolated from the plant.... phoenix paludosa

Gaertn.

Family: Palmae; Arecaceae.

Habitat: Coromandel Coast.

Ayurvedic: Parushaka (Kerala). (Grewia Asiatica Linn., Tiliaceae, Is Also Equated With Parushaka.)

Siddha/Tamil: Kalangu, Ithi, Sagi.

Action: Fruit—Cooling, Laxative. Used In Respiratory Disorders. Gum—Used In Diarrhoea And Genitourinary Diseases. Fresh Sap— Laxative.... phoenix pusilla

Lindl.

Ayurvedic: Jivanti (substitute). (Dendrobium macraei Lindl. is also used as a substitute for Jivanti. Jivanti is equated with Leptadenia reticulata W. & A.)

Action: Age-sustaining tonic, restorative.... pholidota articulata

An instrument for the graphic recording of heart sounds and murmurs.... phonocardiograph

(American) Filled with joy Phonsah, Phonsia, Phonsiah, Phonsea, Phonseah, Phonza, Phonzia, Phonzea... phonsa

Roxb.

Family: Palmae; Arecaceae.

Habitat: Andhra Pradesh, Karnata- ka and Madhya Pradesh.

English: Wild Date Palm.

Ayurvedic: Kharjuuri.

Siddha/Tamil: Periyaitcham, Icham.

Folk: Sulemaani Khajuur, Desi Khajuur.

Action: Fruits—restorative. Juice— cooling, gastric stimulant. Seeds— used in ague. Root—used for nervous debility.

Fresh, unfermented sap (Niraa) is a good source of ascorbic acid, nicotinic and isonicotinic acids, riboflavin, thiamine, sugars; crystine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, phenylalanine, thre- onine, tyrosine.

The concentration of amino acids is much higher in palm jaggery than in sugar cane jaggery.

Fresh fruits contain protein 1.2, fat 0.4, calcium 0.022 and phosphorus 0.38%.

Dosage: Fruit—10-20 g paste. (CCRAS.)... phoenix sylvestris

Fats containing phosphorous, and, along with cholesterol, the primary constituents of cell membranes.... phospholipids

Phosphorus compounds are used in chemical laboratories, some industrial processes, matches, ?reworks and in certain types of aerial bombs and artillery shells. If particles of phosphorus settle on or become embedded in the skin, the resulting burn should be treated with a 2 per cent solution of sodium bicarbonate, followed by application of a 1 per cent solution of copper sulphate.... phosphorus burns

(American) A stylish woman Photeena, Photeana, Photiena, Photeina, Photyna... photina

Diseases of the SKIN for which sunlight is partially or wholly responsible. In su?cient dosage, short-wave ultraviolet light (UVB – see ULTRAVIOLET RAYS (UVR)) always causes ERYTHEMA. Higher doses progressively cause OEDEMA and blistering; this is acute sunburn. Graduated exposure to UVB causes pigmentation (tanning). Prolonged chronic exposure to sunlight eventually accelerates ageing of the exposed skin with LENTIGO formation and loss of COLLAGEN and elastic tissue. After decades of such exposure, epidermal DYSPLASIA and CANCER may supervene.

Drugs given orally or topically may induce phototoxic reactions of various types. Thus, TETRACYCLINES exaggerate sunburn reactions. and the diuretic FRUSEMIDE may cause blistering reactions. Psoralens induce erythema and pigmentation. AMIODARONE also induces pigmentation. (See also PHOTOCHEMOTHERAPY.)

Phytophotodermatitis is a streaky, blistering photodermatosis typically seen on the limbs of children playing in grassy meadows in summer. The phototoxic reaction is caused by psoralens in weeds.

Berlocque dermatitis is a pattern of streaky pigmentation usually seen on women’s necks, caused by a reaction to psoralens in perfumes.

Certain rare metabolic diseases may lead to photosensitisation. They include the PORPHYRIAS and PELLAGRA. Other skin diseases such as lupus erythematosus (see under LUPUS) and ROSACEA may be aggravated by light exposure. Sometimes, in the absence of any of these factors, some people spontaneously develop a sensitivity to light causing various patterns of DERMATITIS or URTICARIA. The most common pattern is ‘polymorphic light eruption’ which typically appears within a day or two of arrival at a sunny holiday destination and persists until departure. Continuously exposed areas, such as the hands and face, may be ‘hardened’ and unaffected.

Treatment Appropriate clothing and headgear, sunscreen creams and lotions are the main preventative measures.... photodermatoses

Reacting poorly to sunlight, either by skin reactivity or by forming abnormal sunlight-mediated serum metabolites... photosensitive

Trin.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas, from Kashmir to Kumaon up to an altitude of 4,000 m.

English: Common Reed.

Folk: Dila, Dambu (Punjab).

Action: Rhizomes and roots—diuretic, emmenagogue, diaphoretic, hypoglycaemic, antiemetic.

The rhizomes are rich in carbohydrates; contain nitrogenous substances 5.2, fat 0.9, N-free extr. 50.8, crude fibre 32.0, sucrose 5.1, reducing sugars 1.1, and ash (rich in silica) 5.8%; as- paragine 0.1% is also present. Leaves possess a high ascorbic acid content (200 mg/100 g).Nodes and sheaths yield 6.6% and the underground parts over 13% of furfural.

The root of common Reed is prescribed in Chinese traditional medicine as an antipyretic against influenza and fevers. Presence of polyols, betaines and free poline has been reported in the methanolic extract. The extract is reported to show bactericidal activity. The root gave a polysaccha- ride which contains sugars, arabinose, xylose and glucose in a molar ratio of 10:19:94; some ofthe fractions showed immunological activity.... phragmites communis

Trin. ex Steud.

Synonym: P. roxburghii (Kunth) Steud.

P. maxima Blatter & McCann in Part.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in marshy places.

English: Common Reed-grass.

Ayurvedic: Nala. (Arundo donax Linn. is also equated with Nala.)

Siddha/Tamil: Perunanal.

Folk: Narakul.

Action: Stem and rhizome— diuretic, diaphoretic. Used topically to relieve insect bite.

P. karka is not discriminated from P communis for medicinal uses in Indian medicine.... phragmites karka

(Greek) One who is fortunate Phyliciah, Phylicea, Phyliceah, Phylecia, Phylecea, Phyleciah, Phyleceah... phylicia

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout drier parts of India.

Unani: Kanochaa, Isfahaan Marv.

Siddha/Tamil: Mela-nelli.

Action: Leaves—an infusion is used in headache. Seeds—carminative, diuretic.

Whole plant revealed antispasmod- ic action in isolated guinea-pig ileum, CNS depressant and hypothermic effects in mice.... phyllanthus maderaspatensis

(Greek) Of the foliage; in mythology, a girl who was turned into an almond tree Phylis, Phillis, Philis, Phylys, Phyllida, Phylida, Phillida, Philida, Phyllina, Phylina, Phyliss... phyllis

The taxonomic group below a Kingdom, and above a Class. See Taxonomy.... phylum

(Armenian) One who burns brightly Phyra, Phyria, Phyrea... phyre

Any form of exercise or movement.... physical activity

(L.) E. Greene.

Synonym: Lippia nodiflora A. Rich.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, near fresh water bodies.

English: Jalapippali, Shaaradi, Shakulaadani, Matsyagandhaa, Matsyaadani, Laangali, Vashiraa.

Siddha/Tamil: Poduthalai.

Action: Spasmolytic, diuretic, febrifuge.

The plant contains flavone glyco- sides—nodiflorins A and B, lipiflorins A and B, as well as free flavones including 6-hydroxyluteolin, nepetin and nodifloretin along with beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol glucosides.

Dosage: Plant—10-20 ml. juice. (CCRAS.)... phyla nodiflora

Schum. & Thonn. Phyllanthus fraternus Webster.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the hotter parts of India, particularly on cultivated land, up to 1,000 m.

Ayurvedic: Bhuumyaamalaki, Bahu- patri, Bhuudhaatri, Bahuphalaa, Taamalaki.

Unani: Bhui Aaamalaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Keelkaay Nelli.

Action: Plant—diuretic, deobstru- ent, astringent, anti-inflammatory, styptic. Used as a single drug in the treatment of jaundice. Used in prescriptions for dyspepsia, indigestion, chronic dysentery, urinary tract diseases, diabetes, skin eruptions.

The leaves yielded lignans—phyl- lanthin (bitter), hypophyllanthin (nonbitter); niranthin, nirtetralin and phyl- tetralin. The whole plant gave a number of flavonoids, including quercetin, quercitrin, astragalin, rutin, kaempfer- ol. Isolation of a hydrolysable tannins, amarulone, is reported from the plant.

The plant is reported to show antiviral activity against hepatitis B virus and related hepadna virus. It was also found to effectively repair CCl4-induced liver damage in rats.

The herb exhibited hypotensive and hypoglycaemic activity. (Indian J Exp Biol 1995, 33 (11) 861-864.)

Phyllanthus fraternus Webster: The ethanolic extract of the plant exhibited hepatotoxic-protective activity in albino rats pretreated with CCl-4, The petroleum extract is reported to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The flavonoids, isolated from the ethanolic extract of the plant, exhibit hypoglycaemic activity in alloxan-treated albino rats. The ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the plant exhibit antibacterial and antifun- gal activity.

Dosage: Root, stem, leaf—3-6. powder. (API, Vol. I and III.)... phyllanthus amarus

Muell.-Arg.

Synonym: P. acidus Skeels. Cicca acida (Linn.) Merrill.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Indian gardens.

English: Country Gooseberry.

Ayurvedic: Lavali-phala, Lowani Hariphala.

Siddha/Tamil: Aranelli.

Action: Fruit—astringent, tonic to liver; improves appetite, useful in biliousness, constipation, vomiting, bronchitis. Roots and seed— cathartic. The juice of the root bark produces headache and severe abdominal pain.

The root bark contains 18% tannin, saponin, gallic acid and a crystalline substance (probably lupeol). The bark contains beta-amyrin and phyllanthol.

The fruit is sour; contains acidity (as acetic acid) 1.70%.... phyllanthus distichus

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Native to America.

English: Chanca Piedra.

Ayurvedic: Bhuumyaamalaki, assigned to P. niruri, has now been equated with P.fraternus.

Action: Antispasmodic, antipyretic, diuretic, antiviral, bactericidal.

Taking Chanca Piedra orally does not seem to be effective for treating hepatitis B. The herb contains niuride, which inhibits specific HIV-protein binding activity, but does not protect cells from acute HIV infection. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)... phyllanthus niruri

1 Treatment of pain, disease or injury by physical means. 2 The profession concerned with promotion of health; prevention of physical disabilities; evaluation and rehabilitation of persons disabled by pain, disease or injury; and with treatment by physical therapeutic measures, as opposed to medical, surgical or radiologic measures.... physical therapy / physiotherapy

A health care professional who provides patient services ranging from taking medical histories and doing physical examinations to performing minor surgical procedures. Physicians’ assistants work under the supervision of a physician.... physician assistant

See SUICIDE.... physician-assisted suicide

Retz.

Synonym: P. virgatus J. R. et G. Forst.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India.

Ayurvedic: Bhumyaamalaki (var.).

Folk: Mothi-bhuiaamvali (Maharashtra).

Plant—antiseptic. Fresh leaves, bruised in butter milk, are used as a wash for itch. Fresh leaves, flowers and fruits with cumin seeds and sugar, are used in gonorrhoea. Root—applied to mammary abscesses. Fruits contain oxalic acid.... phyllanthus simplex

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the plains of India from Punjab to Assam and Southward to Kerala up to 1,000 m.

Ayurvedic: Bhuumyaamataki (var.), Taamravalli.

Siddha/Tamil: Senkeezhnelli.

Folk: Laal-bhui-aamlaa, Hazaar- mani.

Action: See P. amarus.

The leaf and stem gave flavonoids— quercetin, astragalin, quercitrin, iso- quercitrin and rutin; Me-brevifolin- carboxylate and tri-dehydrochebulic acid.... phyllanthus urinaria

A siphonophore or hydrozoan colony that is usually regarded as a jellyfish by non-biological people. It has a float, rather than a bell, and the tentacle(s) hang beneath. There are two main varieties: 1. Physalia utriculus. A single-tentacled species common in the warmer waters of the world, and especially common on the eastern seaboard of Australia where it causes some 10,000-odd stings each summer. No deaths have ever been reported, and usually it causes mild-to moderate skin pain and possibly some aching pains in the draining lymph glands in the leg or armpit. 2. Physalia physalis. The multi-tentacled species found world-wide, but commonly on both side of the North Atlantic. Stings are common on the eastern coast of the United States and have now caused 3 deaths as well as manysevere systemic symptoms. Specimens may have a float length of up to 25cm with tentacles up to 30m in length. Some severe systemic symptoms resemble a modified Irukandji syndrome with painful breathing, muscle cramps, anxietyand sweating.... physalia

Linn.

Family: Solanaceae.

Habitat: Native to South-east Europe and Japan; naturalized in many parts of the world; grown in Indian gardens.

English: Strawberry Tomato, Winter Cherry. ( Withania somnifera is also known as Winter Cherry.)

Ayurvedic: Raajaputrikaa.

Unani: Kaaknaj.

Action: Berries—diuretic, antitussive, oxytocic, analgesic, febrifuge; used for urinary disorders, suppression of urine, gout and intermittent fevers.

Berries contain flavonoids, including luteolin-7-glucoside and withas- teroids.... physalis alkekengi

Linn.

Family: Solanaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; cultivated in Indian gardens in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu; also grows in moist places as a weed.

Action: Plant—diuretic.

salin B and F have been isolated from the ethanolic extract of the whole plant. Both physalin B and F are reported to inhibit the growth of several human leukaemia cell systems.

Aerial parts yielded seco-withano- lides—cleaved steroidal constituents containing physalins. In Taiwan, phy-

Family: Solanaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, ascending up to 2,300 m.

English: Sun-berry.

Ayurvedic: Tankaari, Parpotikaa, Chirapotikaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Sodakku thakkali.

Action: Berries—diuretic, aperient, alterative. Used for gout and urinary diseases.

Quercetin 3-O-galactoside, isolated from the crude extract of the leaves, is reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity comparable to phenylbutazone in carageenan-induced rat paw oedema.

Physalis minima Linn. var indica C. B. Clarke is common weed in irrigated fields and bunds.

The plant contains withasteroids, physalindicanols, withaminimin and withaphysalin, 3-O-glucosides of kaempferol and quercetin, in addition to beta-sitosterol and its glucoside.

The diuretic action of Physalis minima leaves is attributed to the high content of potassium nitrate (8-10%).... physalis angulata

Miers.

Family: Solanaceae.

Habitat: Lahul valley (Punjab), Ladakh, North Kashmir. Western Tibbet at altitudes of3,300-4,600 m.

Folk: Daturaa (Ladakh), Laangtaan; Sholar, Bajarbang (Punjab).

Action: Leaves—poisonous and narcotic.

The roots of the plant contain 0.64% alkaloids (calculated as hyoscyamine). The plant constitutes an excellent source of atropine.... physochlaina praealta

Any wasting disease in which the whole body or part of the body is involved... phythisis

Linn.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; grown in the hills and plains throughout India.

English: Cape Gooseberry.

Ayurvedic: Parpoti (var.).

Siddha/Tamil: Perungunni, Potti- pallam.

Folk: Rasbhari, Mako.

Action: Plant—diuretic. Leaf— anthelmintic, an infusion is used in abdominal disorders. Fruits— a good source of carotene and ascorbic acid; eaten as a table fruit.

The fruit contain carotene (as vitamin A) 2,380 IU, thiamine 0.05, ri- boflavin 0.02, nicotinic acid 0.3 and ascorbic acid 49 mg/100 g; mineral matter 0.8%; phytin phosphorus 18, iron 2.0, ionizable iron 0.9, sodium 0.9, potassium 320, copper 0.19, and sulphur 43 mg/100 g. The juice from the ripe fruits contain considerable quantity of pectin. The chief acid is citric acid, but malic and tartaric acids are also present.

The plant is a source of highly oxygenated ergostane-type of steroids— withanolides and related compounds.... physalis peruviana

Plant lipids, with little other than dietary value, but often excitedly referred to as “Hormone Precursors” with incorrect but well-meaning pseudo­science. See: STEROIDS, PLANT... phytosterols

A statutory organisation that is part of the NHS. It comprises ten laboratory groups and two centres in the UK, with central coordination from PHLS headquarters. The service provides diagnostic-testing facilities for cases of suspected infectious disease. The remit of the PHLS (which was set up during World War II and then absorbed into the NHS) is now based on legislation approved in 1977 and 1979. Its overall purpose was to protect the population from infection by maintaining a national capability of high quality for the detection, diagnosis, surveillance, protection and control of infections and communicable diseases. It provided microbiology services to hospitals, family doctors and local authorities as well as providing national reference facilities. In 2001 it was incorporated into the newly established NATIONAL INFECTION CONTROL AND HEALTH PROTECTION AGENCY.... public health laboratoryservice (phls)

World-accepted work. New edition published: 1990, fully revised and updated. Over 80 monographs. Official publication of the British Herbal Medicine Association to set and maintain standards of herbal medicine. Does not contain Therapeutic Section and index that appear in the 1983 edition, but describes macroscopical and microscopical characteristics. Quantitative standards, methods of identification, commercial form and source and description of the powdered form. BHP 1990 vol 1 is available from BHMA Publications, PO Box 304, Bournemouth, Dorset, England BH7 6JZ (£35). Abbreviation: BHP. ... british herbal pharmacopoeia

Published six-monthly by the School of Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine), edited by Hein Zeylstra. Scientific journal for the professional. Enquiries: School of Phytotherapy, Bucksteep Manor, Bodle Street Green, near Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 4RJ, UK. ... british journal of phytotherapy

Provides authoritative standards for the quality of many substances, preparations and articles used in medicine and pharmacy, and includes the monographs of the European Pharmacopoeias. A legally enforceable document throughout the UK, most of the Commonwealth and many other countries, and is an indispensable laboratory handbook for all concerned with the quality of medicines. Published on the recommendation of the Medicines Commission pursuant to the Medicines Act 1968. Published by Her Majesty’s Stationery Office, London. The most useful BPC for the herbal practitioner is the BPC 1934. ... british pharmacopoeia, the

Formerly Reader in Phytochemistry, Department of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham. Research interests: secondary metabolites of the Solanaceae and Erythroxylaceae. Principal author of Trease and Evans’ Pharmacognosy. Visiting lecturer, School of Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine). ... evans, william c. (b.pharm., b.sc., ph.d., f.r. pharm. s)

The world’s most comprehensive source of drug information in a single volume. Provides an accurate and concise summary of the properties, actions, and uses of plant and other medicines in clinical use. All information evaluated by expert editorial staff of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. ... martindale, the extra pharmacopoeia

Started by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden is the second oldest herb garden in England devoted to the scientific study of plants. It provides a silent four-acre oasis in the heart of London for enjoyment by the public, but especially for research into herbs. For over 300 years the garden has supplied drugs to London doctors for relief of the sick.

Records provide one of the few sources of information about medicinal plants in cultivation during the 18th century. The famous gardener Philip Miller took over in 1722 and developed it as the finest botanic garden in the world for its amazing variety of plants. In the 18th century cotton seeds were sent from the garden to form the crop of the new colony of Georgia, America.

From Chelsea, Madagascan Vinca rosea was distributed and which earned a place in modern medicine (vinplastine) for the treatment of leukaemia. After many years neglect, medical botany enjoys a renaissance during which the skills of the garden’s scientific staff are again in demand for the training of pharmacists and students of other disciplines. Its buildings house a valuable collection of botanical books, including John Parkinson’s “Paradisus”. ... chelsea physic garden

Legal status of. Under the 1964 Convention on the Elaboration of a European Pharmacopoeia the standards of the European Pharmacopoeia are required to take precedence over the standards of the national pharmacopoeias of the contracting parties, thus ensuring a common standard. In the United Kingdom this has been achieved by means of section 65(7) of the Medicines Act 1968. In addition to the United Kingdom the countries party to the Convention are Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, German Federal Republic, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Portugal. (Mail 54, June 1988) ... european pharmacopoeia

The part of a medical consultation in which the doctor looks, feels, and listens to various parts of the patient’s body to assess the patient’s condition or to gather information to help make a diagnosis.

Most examinations include palpation, by which the doctor examines relevant parts of the body for signs such as swelling, tenderness, or enlargement of organs. In some cases, percussion of the chest, or other parts of the body, may be performed by tapping with the fingers and then listening to the sound produced. Auscultation may be used to listen to blood flow through arteries and sounds made by the heart and lungs. The doctor may take the pulse or blood pressure, examine the eyes and ears, and assess the strength and coordination of the muscles.... examination, physical

An alternative term for a pharyngeal pouch.... pharyngeal diverticulum

A cancerous tumour of the pharynx. Pharyngeal cancer usually develops in the mucous membrane lining. In the West, almost all cases of pharyngeal cancer are related to smoking and to drinking alcohol. The incidence rises with age, and the disorder is more common in men.

Cancerous tumours of the oropharynx (the middle section of the pharynx) usually cause difficulty swallowing, often with a sore throat and earache. Bloodstained sputum may be coughed up. Sometimes there is only the feeling of a lump in the throat or a visible enlarged lymph node in the neck. Cancer of the laryngopharynx (the lowermost part of the pharynx) initially causes a sensation of incomplete swallowing, then a muffled voice, hoarseness, and increased difficulty in swallowing. Tumours of the nasopharynx have different causes.Diagnosis of cancer of the pharynx is made by biopsy, often in conjunction with laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy, or oesophagoscopy.

The growth may be removed surgically or treated with radiotherapy.

Anticancer drugs may also be given.... pharynx, cancer of

A drug of abuse, commonly known as angel dust or.... phencyclidine

A group of drugs used to treat psychotic illnesses (see antipsychotic drugs) and to relieve severe nausea and vomiting (see antiemetic drugs).

The group includes chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, and perphenazine.... phenothiazine drugs

A nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Phenylbutazone may cause nausea, fluid retention, rash, and peptic ulcer. It may also increase the risk of blood disorders. It is prescribed only under hospital supervision, when other drugs are ineffective.... phenylbutazone

A substance with a particular odour that, when released in minute quantities by an animal, affects the behaviour or development of other individuals of the same species.... pheromone

A branch of medicine concerned with caring for patients who have become disabled through injury or illness.... physical medicine and rehabilitation

A prefix meaning of plant origin.... phyto-

Oestrogens that occur naturally in plants.... phyto-oestrogens

A circulatory disorder affecting the fingers and toes that shares the mechanism, symptoms, and signs of Raynaud’s disease but results from a known underlying disorder.

Possible causes include arterial diseases, such as atherosclerosis; connective tissue diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis; and various drugs, such as beta-blocker drugs.

The disorder is an occupational disorder of people who use pneumatic drills, chain saws, or vibrating machinery; it is sometimes seen in typists, pianists, and others whose fingers suffer repeated trauma.

Treatment is the same as for Raynaud’s disease, along with treatment of the underlying disorder.... raynaud’s phenomenon

the normal outward and upward rotation of the eyes that occurs when the lids are closed, but not during blinking. [Sir C. Bell]... bell’s phenomenon

a disorder of the phobic type in which minor symptoms are interpreted as signs of cancer and panic attacks may occur. As with any other phobic disorder, cancer phobia cannot be treated by appeals to reason. Some success has been achieved by various forms of *behaviour therapy and *SSRIs.... cancer phobia

n. a drug used in the treatment of diarrhoea. It consists of a mixture of diphenoxylate hydrochloride (an opioid that reduces *peristalsis) and atropine (which relaxes the smooth muscle of the gut) in a ratio of 100 to 1.... co-phenotrope

a malignant tumour of the connective tissue of the breast: it accounts for approximately 1% of all breast cancers. Such tumours may show a wide variation in cell structure and they often present as a large mass but without distant spread. The best treatment for a localized tumour is simple *mastectomy.... cystosarcoma phylloides

visual sensations caused by changes within the eye itself, rather than by the normal light stimulation process. The commonest are tiny floating spots (floaters) that most people can see occasionally, especially when gazing at a brightly illuminated background (such as a blue sky).... entoptic phenomena

a common condition characterized by a sensation of a lump in the throat, in the midline just above the sternum; swallowing is not affected. The condition, formerly called globus hystericus, is sometimes related to *gastro-oesophageal reflux and tends to be worse during periods of stress.... globus pharyngeus

a derivative of *histamine that was formerly used to test for acid secretion in the stomach in conditions involving abnormal gastric acid secretion, such as *Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.... histamine acid phosphate

a collection of symptoms that includes skin rash, conjunctivitis, salivary gland inflammation, and hyperthyroidism due to the intake of high doses of iodine (German Jod, hence the name). [K. A. von Basedow (1799–1854), German physician]... jod–basedow phenomenon

(Kernohan’s syndrome) *hemiplegia that is *ipsilateral to the brain lesion that caused it, due to pressure of the lesion (which is often a haematoma) on surrounding structures in the brain. It is unusual because normally a lesion of the brain causes dysfunction in the *contralateral limbs. [J. W. K. Kernohan (20th century), US pathologist]... kernohan’s phenomenon

(Somogyi effect) the phenomenon of high fasting blood-sugar levels in the morning due to an unrecognized hypoglycaemic episode during the night in a person with diabetes. The low blood sugar has resulted in an outpouring of regulatory hormones, such as adrenaline and glucagon, which have raised the blood sugar to supranormal levels by the time of waking. It is important to recognize the cause, since increasing the evening insulin dose, thinking this will bring the morning sugars down, could actually cause a more severe nocturnal hypoglycaemic attack, which the body may not be able to counteract: coma might ensue. The condition can be tested for by measuring blood sugars at the time of the assumed low level.... dawn phenomenon

a hereditary disorder – an X-linked condition (see sex-linked) – in which the absence of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), which functions in carbohydrate metabolism, results in the breakdown of the red blood cells (*haemolysis), usually after exposure to *oxidants, such as drugs, or infections. The breakdown causes acute attacks that are characterized by pallor, loin pain, and rigors. There are several varieties of G6PD deficiency, which is most common in people of African, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean descent. Treatment involves identifying and avoiding agents that trigger the haemolysis and treating acute attacks symptomatically. See also favism.... glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency

(isomorphic response) a phenomenon that occurs in skin diseases, especially psoriasis and lichen planus, in which the characteristic lesions of the disease appear in linear form in response to such trauma as cuts, burns, or scratches. [H. Koebner (1834–1904), German dermatologist]... koebner phenomenon

the rapid alternation between jerky uncontrolled movements (on) and very limited or no movement (off) most often seen in patients with Parkinson’s disease who have been undergoing long-term treatment with levodopa.... on–off phenomenon

(phako-) combining form denoting the lens of the eye.... phaco

n. tremulousness of the lens seen when the eye moves from side to side as a result of partial dislocation of the lens, as can occur after trauma or in *Marfan’s syndrome.... phacodonesis

(phakoemulsification) n. the use of a high-frequency *ultrasound probe to break up a cataract so that it can be removed through a very small incision. This is now the most popular method of performing cataract surgery in the developed world.... phacoemulsification

(phago-) combining form denoting 1. eating. 2. phagocytes.... phag

n. see bacteriophage.... phage

combining form denoting a condition involving eating.... phagia

adj. denoting an eye with the natural crystalline lens still in place, as contrasted with aphakic (see aphakia) or pseudophakic (see pseudophakia).... phakic

combining form. see phaco-.... phako

rows of supporting cells between the sensory hair cells of the organ of Corti (see cochlea).... phalangeal cells

n. surgical removal of one or more of the small bones (phalanges) in the fingers or toes.... phalangectomy

n. inflammation of a finger or toe, causing swelling and pain. The condition may be caused by infection of the soft tissues, tendon sheaths, bone, or joints or by some rheumatic diseases, such as *psoriatic arthritis. See also dactylitis.... phalangitis

a diagnostic sign for *carpal tunnel syndrome. The patient is asked to hold his or her wrists in full flexion with the dorsal surfaces of both hands pushing against each other with fingers pointing downwards for 30–60 seconds. This manoeuvre increases pressure on the median nerve: tingling and numbness or pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers suggests carpal tunnel syndrome. See also Tinel’s sign. [G. S. Phalen (1911–98), US orthopaedist]... phalen’s sign

n. surgical reconstruction or repair of the penis. It is required for congenital deformity of the penis, as in *hypospadias or *epispadias, and sometimes also following injury to the penis with loss of skin.... phalloplasty

combining form denoting visible; apparent.... phanero

see pseudocyesis.... phantom pregnancy

1. an accumulation of fluid (pleural effusion) in the lung in patients with heart failure, which resembles a lung tumour on radiological examination. 2. a swelling in the abdomen or elsewhere, caused by local muscular contraction or the accumulation of gases, that mimics a swelling caused by a tumour.... phantom tumour

n. a person who is qualified by examination and registered and authorized to dispense medicines or to keep open a shop for the sale and dispensing of medicines.... pharmacist

combining form denoting drugs. Example: pharmacophobia (morbid fear of).... pharmaco

n. the interaction of drugs with cells. It includes such factors as the binding of drugs to cells, their uptake, and intracellular metabolism.... pharmacodynamics

(pharyngo-) combining form denoting the pharynx. Example: pharyngopathy (disease of).... pharyng

(branchial arch, visceral arch) any of the paired segmented ridges of tissue in each side of the throat of the early embryo that correspond to the gill arches of fish. Each arch contains a cartilage, a cranial nerve, and a blood vessel. Between each arch there is a *pharyngeal pouch.... pharyngeal arch

(branchial cleft, visceral cleft) any of the paired segmented clefts in each side of the throat of the early embryo that correspond to the gills of fish. Soon after they have formed they close to form the *pharyngeal pouches, except for the first cleft, which persists as the external auditory meatus.... pharyngeal cleft

see gag reflex.... pharyngeal reflex

n. surgical removal of part of the pharynx.... pharyngectomy

n. a pouch or cyst opening off the pharynx (see branchial cyst).... pharyngocele

n. an *endoscope for the examination of the pharynx.... pharyngoscope

n. a drug that dilates blood vessels (see alpha blocker) and is used to reduce high blood pressure in patients with *phaeochromocytoma. Side-effects include fast heartbeat and digestive upsets.... phentolamine

(PTC) n. a substance that tastes bitter to some individuals but is tasteless to others. Response to PTC appears to be controlled by a single pair of genes (*alleles): ability to taste PTC is *dominant to the inability to taste it.... phenylthiocarbamide

n. a small glass bottle for storing medicines or poisons.... phial

an abnormal form of chromosome 22 that has a foreshortened long arm due to a reciprocal *translocation with chromosome 9. It is most commonly seen in the marrow cells of patients with chronic *myeloid leukaemia.... philadelphia chromosome

combining form denoting morbid craving or attraction. Example: nyctophilia (for darkness).... philia

(phlebo-) combining form denoting a vein or veins. Example: phlebectopia (abnormal position of).... phleb

n. the surgical removal of a vein (or part of a vein), sometimes performed for the treatment of varicose veins in the legs (varicectomy).... phlebectomy

(venosclerosis) n. a rare degenerative condition, of unknown cause, that affects the leg veins of young men. The vein walls become thickened and feel like cords under the skin. It is not related to arteriosclerosis and needs no treatment.... phlebosclerosis

n. see sandfly.... phlebotomus

n. Archaic. inflammation of connective tissue, leading to ulceration.... phlegmon

n. a small pinkish-yellow nodule surrounded by a zone of dilated blood vessels that occurs in the conjunctiva or in the cornea. It develops into a small ulcer that heals without trace in the conjunctiva but produces some residual scarring in the cornea. Phlyctens, which are prone to recur, are thought to be due to a type of allergy to certain bacteria.... phlycten

n. weakness of the voice, especially when due to fatigue.... phonasthenia

n. obstruction of a vein by a blood clot, without preceding inflammation of its wall. It is most common within the deep veins of the calf of the leg – deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – in contrast to *thrombophlebitis, which affects superficial leg veins. Prolonged immobility, heart failure, pregnancy, injury, and surgery predispose to thrombosis by encouraging sluggish blood flow. Many of these conditions are associated with changes in the clotting factors in the blood that increase the tendency to thrombosis; these changes also occur in some women taking oral contraceptives.

The affected leg may become swollen and tender. The main danger is that the clot may become detached and give rise to *pulmonary embolism. Regular leg exercises help to prevent deep vein thrombosis, and anticoagulant drugs (such as heparin and warfarin) are used in prevention and treatment. Large clots may be removed surgically in the operation of thrombectomy to relieve leg swelling.... phlebothrombosis

n. the study of the voice and its disorders.... phoniatrics

n. see electrocardiophonography. —phonocardiography n.... phonocardiogram

n. excessive sensitivity to and fear of certain specific sounds irrespective of the level of the sound. See hyperacusis; misophonia.... phonophobia

n. surgery performed on the larynx externally or endoscopically to improve or modify the quality of the voice.... phonosurgery

combining form denoting (in ophthalmology) an abnormal deviation of the eyes or turning of the visual axis. Example: heterophoria (tendency to squint).... phoria

n. a genus of non-bloodsucking flies, commonly known as blowflies. The maggot of P. regina normally breeds in decaying meat but it has occasionally been found in suppurating wounds, giving rise to a type of *myiasis.... phormia

n. a poisonous gas developed during World War I. It is a choking agent, acting on the lungs to produce *oedema, with consequent respiratory and cardiac failure.... phosgene

n. creatine phosphate (see creatine).... phosphagen

n. the presence of phosphates in the blood. Sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium phosphates are normal constituents.... phosphataemia

n. one of a group of enzymes capable of catalysing the hydrolysis of phosphoric acid esters. An example is glucose-6-phosphatase, which catalyses the hydrolysis of glucose-6-phosphate to glucose and phosphate. Phosphatases are important in the absorption and metabolism of carbohydrates, nucleotides, and phospholipids and are essential in the calcification of bone. Acid phosphatase is present in kidney, semen, serum, and the prostate gland. Alkaline phosphatase occurs in teeth, developing bone, plasma, kidney, and intestine.... phosphatase

n. see lecithin.... phosphatidylcholine

n. a cephalin-like phospholipid containing the amino acid serine. It is found in brain tissue. See also cephalin.... phosphatidylserine

n. creatine phosphate (see creatine).... phosphocreatine

n. an enzyme that catalyses the conversion of fructose-6-phosphate to fructose-1,6-diphosphate. This is an important reaction occurring during the process of *glycolysis.... phosphofructokinase

n. the destruction of tissues caused by excessive amounts of phosphorus in the system. The tissues likely to suffer in phosphorus poisoning are the liver, kidneys, muscles, bones, and the cardiovascular system.... phosphonecrosis

n. any enzyme that catalyses the combination of an organic molecule (usually glucose) with a phosphate group (phosphorylation). Phosphorylase is found in the liver and kidney, where it is involved in the breakdown of glycogen to glucose-1-phosphate.... phosphorylase

(photo-) combining form denoting light.... phot

n. pain in the eye caused by very bright light.... photalgia

n. the use of light or lasers to destroy tissue.... photoablation

n. any of various skin diseases caused by exposure to light of varying wavelength (see photosensitivity). The facial prominences and the ‘V’ of the neck are most commonly affected, the shadow areas behind the ears and below the chin being protected. A common photodermatosis is polymorphous light eruption, which affects 10% of the population. It appears with the first sunshine of spring and abates by late summer. The photodermatoses include certain *porphyrias, notably porphyria cutanea tarda.... photodermatosis

a technique for improving the sensitivity and specificity of bladder cancer diagnosis at cystoscopy using a light-sensitive agent. This agent is instilled into the bladder, taken up by the epithelial cells, and converted into a porphyrin that accumulates only in malignant and premalignant cells. It fluoresces under light of a specific wavelength and is thus highlighted against normal bladder mucosa.... photodynamic diagnosis

n. an enlarged photographic record of an object taken through an optical or electron microscope. Compare microphotograph.... photomicrograph

an electronic device that magnifies the light emitted from a *scintillator by accelerating electrons in a high-voltage field. The resulting signal can be used to display the scintillations on a TV screen. Such devices are commonly used in *gamma cameras.... photomultiplier tube

n. inflammation of the eye due to exposure to light. It is usually caused by the damaging effect of ultraviolet light on the cornea, for example in snow blindness or when lying under a sunbed.... photophthalmia

adj. relating to or describing conditions of bright illumination. For example, photopic vision is vision in bright light, in which the *cones of the retina are responsible for visual sensation. —photopia n.... photopic

n. see photodynamic therapy.... photoradiation

n. damage to the retina of the eye caused by looking at the sun without adequate protection for the eyes. The retina may be burnt by the intense light focused on it; this affects the central part of the visual field, which may be permanently lost (sun blindness).... photoretinitis

(PVP) a technique to vaporize the prostate by means of a high-energy laser, used to relieve *lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (see prostate gland). It is associated with less blood loss and a shorter hospital stay than a traditional TURP (see resection), but can only be used on smaller prostates.... photoselective vaporization of the prostate

n. movement of a cell or organism in response to a stimulus of light.... phototaxis

see keratectomy.... phototherapeutic keratectomy

n. damage caused by prolonged exposure to light; for example, retinal phototoxicity is damage to the retina of the eye as a result of prolonged exposure to light.... phototoxicity

n. the excretion of phosphorescent urine, which glows in the dark, due to the presence of certain phosphorus-containing compounds derived from phosphates.... photuria

(phreno-) combining form denoting 1. the mind or brain. 2. the diaphragm. 3. the phrenic nerve.... phren

combining form denoting a condition of the mind. Example: hebephrenia (schizophrenia affecting young adults).... phrenia

1. damage to the phrenic nerve as a result of trauma. 2. formerly, surgical crushing of a portion of the *phrenic nerve. This paralyses the diaphragm on the side operated upon, which is then pushed upwards by the abdominal contents, thus pressing on the lung and partially collapsing it. This operation was formerly often combined with *pneumoperitoneum in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis but is now obsolete.... phrenic crush

the normal radiological appearance of the tip of the gall bladder, seen in a minority of cholecystograms (see cholecystography). Its name is derived from its resemblance to the characteristic Balkan headgear.... phrygian cap

n. a widely distributed genus of lice. The crab (or pubic) louse, P. pubis, is a common parasite of humans that lives permanently attached to the body hair, particularly that of the pubic or perianal regions but also on the eyelashes and the hairs in the armpits. Crab lice are not known to transmit disease but their bites can irritate the skin (see pediculosis). An infestation may be acquired during sexual intercourse or from hairs left on clothing, towels, and lavatory seats.... phthirus

n. a disease caused by parasitic fungi of the genera Rhizopus, Absidia, and Mucor. The disease affects the sinuses, the central nervous system, the lungs, and the skin tissues. The fungi are able to grow within the blood vessels of the lungs and nervous tissue, thus causing blood clots which cut off the blood supply (see infarction). Treatment with the antibiotic *amphotericin has proved effective.... phycomycosis

n. the evolutionary history of a species or individual.... phylogenesis

(physio-) combining form denoting 1. physiology. 2. physical.... physi

adj. (in medicine) relating to the body rather than to the mind. For example, a physical sign is one that a doctor can detect when examining a patient, such as abnormal dilation of the pupils or the absence of a knee-jerk reflex (see also functional disorder; organic disorder).... physical

see saline.... physiological saline

one of a group of solutions used to maintain tissues in a viable state. These solutions contain specific concentrations of substances that are vital for normal tissue function (e.g. sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, magnesium, bicarbonate, and phosphate ions, glucose, and oxygen). An example of such a solution is *Ringer’s solution.... physiological solution

(growth plate) a horizontal band of tissue located between the ends (*epiphyses) of a long bone and the growing zone (*metaphysis) of the shaft. It is composed of cartilaginous, bony, and fibrous components that combine to allow for longitudinal and latitudinal growth and remodelling of the developing bone (endochondral *ossification). See also Salter-Harris classification.

physo- combining form denoting air or gas.... physis

(phyto-) combining form denoting plants; of plant origin.... phyt

n. one of a large group of non-nutritive compounds made by plants that have an effect on health. They include *antioxidants, flavonoids, flavanols, flavanones, isoflavones, anthocyanins, carotenoids, polyphenols, phenolic acids, phyto-oestogens, and others.... phytochemical

(PHA) n. a plant-derived alkaloid that stimulates T lymphocytes to divide in the test tube.... phytohaemagglutinin

n. an eruption of linear blisters occurring after exposure to light in people who have been in contact with certain plants, such as wild parsnip or cow parsley, to which they are sensitive. A particularly dramatic reaction occurs with giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). The skin often appears brown as the blisters resolve.... phytophotodermatitis

n. any poisonous substance (toxin) produced by a plant, such as any of the toxins produced by fungi of the genus *Amanita.... phytotoxin

the recovery phase that follows immediately after an epileptic seizure (see epilepsy). It may last anything from a few minutes to several hours and is typically characterized by drowsiness, confusion, loss of memory, and feelings of sadness or anxiety. See ictus.... postictal phase

see aura.... preictal phase

perception of the lateral motion of an object in the visual field as having a depth component, due to a relative difference in signal timings between the two eyes. It often occurs spontaneously in several diseases affecting the eyes, such as cataract, *retrobulbar neuritis, and multiple sclerosis. [C. Pulfrich (20th century), German physicist]... pulfrich phenomenon

a derivative of vitamin B6 that is an important *coenzyme in certain reactions of amino-acid metabolism. See transamination.... pyridoxal phosphate

(in *electrocardiography) the superimposition of an R wave (ventricular *depolarization) on the T wave (ventricular *repolarization) of the preceding heartbeat. It may trigger ventricular fibrillation. See QRS complex; Q–T interval; S–T segment.... r on t phenomenon

see SPECT scanning.... single photon emission computed tomography

dizziness induced by exposure to sound. It is seen in various conditions of the inner ear, including *Ménière’s disease and *superior canal dehiscence syndrome. [P. Tullio (1881–1941), Italian biologist]... tullio phenomenon

the worsening of neurological symptoms, including vision, in demyelinating conditions such as multiple sclerosis, when the body becomes overheated in hot weather or by exercise, fever, or saunas and hot tubs. [W. Uhthoff (1853–1927), German ophthalmologist]... uhthoff phenomenon

describes the natural biological processes of a living organism.... physiological

plant substances that mimic the action of human hormones.... phytohormones