Glossary

Browse by letter:
A B C D E F G H I J L M N O P R S T U V W Y

heavy bleeding

hematocrit

The percentage of whole blood that is made up of red blood cells. Used as a measurement of anemia.

hematoma

A bruise or area of skin discoloration caused by broken blood vessels beneath the skin.

hematometra

An accumulation of blood in the uterus, which may occur following spontaneous or induced abortion.

hemoglobin

The iron-containing material in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body.

hernia

The projection of an organ, part of an organ, or any bodily structure through the wall that normally contains it.

herpes

high-level disinfection (medical instruments)

To destroy all living microorganisms except some forms of bacteria. Compare with sterilize.

hormone

A chemical substance formed in one organ or part of the body and carried in the blood to another organ or part, where it works through chemical action. Also, manufactured chemical substances that function as hormones.

human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

The virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

human papillomavirus (HPV)

A common, highly contagious virus spread by sexual activity and skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. Certain subtypes of HPV are responsible for most cases of cervical cancer; others cause genital warts.

hydrocele

The collection of fluid in a body cavity, especially in the testes or along the spermatic cord (see Male Anatomy).

hyperlipidemia

High level of fats in the blood that increases the risk of heart disease.

hypertension

Higher blood pressure than normal; 140 mm Hg or higher (systolic) or 90 mm Hg or higher (diastolic).

hyperthyroidism

Too much production of thyroid hormones.

hypothyroidism

Not enough production of thyroid hormones.