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Glossary

Showing 741-750 out of 1196 Terms

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  • Magnetic resonance imaging

    (mag-NEH-tik REH-zuh-nunts IH-muh-jing)

    A procedure in which radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer are used to create detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures can show the difference between normal and diseased tissue. MRI makes better images of organs and soft tissue than other scanning techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) or x-ray. MRI is especially useful for imaging the brain, the spine, the soft tissue of joints, and the inside of bones. Also called magnetic resonance imaging, NMRI, and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging.

  • Malignant

    (muh-LIG-nunt)

    A term used to describe cancer. Malignant cells grow in an uncontrolled way and can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph system.

  • Malignant tumor

    A mass of cancer cells that may invade surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of your body.

  • Malnutrition

    (mal-noo-TRIH-shun)

    A condition caused by not getting enough calories or the right amount of key nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, that are needed for health. Malnutrition may occur when there is a lack of nutrients in the diet or when the body cannot absorb nutrients from food. Cancer and cancer treatment may cause malnutrition.

  • Mammogram

    (MA-muh-gram)

    An x-ray of the breast.

  • Manual healing

    (MAN-yoo-ul HEE-ling)

    A type of therapy in which the therapist moves or manipulates one or more parts of the patient’s body. It may be used to treat pain, stress, anxiety, and depression, and for general well-being. Examples include chiropractic treatments, physical therapy, and massage therapy. Also called manipulative and body-based practice and physical touch methods.

  • Marker

    (MAR-ker)

    A diagnostic indication that disease may develop.

  • Markers

    (MAR-kers)

    Diagnostic indications that disease may develop.

  • Mass

    (mas)

    In medicine, a lump in the body. It may be caused by the abnormal growth of cells, a cyst, hormonal changes, or an immune reaction. A mass may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).

  • Mast cell

    (mast sel)

    A type of white blood cell.