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Glossary

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  • Pancytopenia

    A condition in which there is a lower-than-normal number of red and white blood cells and platelets in the blood. Pancytopenia occurs when there is a problem with the blood-forming stem cells in the bone marrow. Signs and symptoms include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, trouble breathing, fast heartbeat, fever, pale skin, purple or red spots on the skin, rash, easy bruising, and abnormal bleeding. Pancytopenia may be caused by certain autoimmune, bone marrow, or genetic disorders. It may also be caused by infection, poor nutrition, pregnancy, cancer treatment (such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy), or exposure to certain toxins, chemicals, or medicines.

  • Pap test

    A procedure in which a small brush or spatula is used to gently remove cells from the cervix so they can be checked under a microscope for cervical cancer or cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer. A Pap test may also help find other conditions, such as infections or inflammation. It is sometimes done at the same time as a pelvic exam and may also be done at the same time as a test for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Also called Pap smear and Papanicolaou test.

  • Paraganglia

    (PAYR-uh-GANG-glee-uh)

    A collection of cells that came from embryonic nervous tissue, and are found near the adrenal glands and some blood vessels and nerves. Most paraganglia secrete epinephrine and norepinephrine.

  • Parasites

    (PAYR-uh-SITES)

    An animal or plant that gets nutrients by living on or in an organism of another species. A complete parasite gets all of its nutrients from the host organism, but a semi-parasite gets only some of its nutrients from the host.

  • Parathyroid glands

    (PAYR-uh-THY-royd...)

    Four pea-sized glands found on the surface of the thyroid. The parathyroid hormone made by these glands increases the calcium level in the blood.

  • Parotids

    Salivary glands located at the side of your face in front of each ear.

  • Pastoral counselors

    (PAS-tuh-rul KOWN-seh-lers)

    A person who is trained to give spiritual and mental health advice.

  • Pathologist

    puh-THAH-loh-jist

    A doctor who has special training in identifying diseases by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.

  • Pathologists

    (puh-THAH-loh-jist)

    Doctors who have special training in identifying diseases by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.

  • Pathology

    (puh-THAH-loh-jee ...)

    The branch of medicine involved in making diagnoses from the examination of tissues.