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Catecholamines
ka-teh-KOH-luh-meen
A type of neurohormone (a chemical that is made by nerve cells and used to send signals to other cells). Catecholamines are important in stress responses. High levels cause high blood pressure which can lead to headaches, sweating, pounding of the heart, pain in the chest, and anxiety. Examples of catecholamines include dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), and norepinephrine (noradrenaline).
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Catheter
(KA-theh-ter)
Flexible tube used to deliver fluids into or withdraw fluids from the body.
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CD20
A protein found on B cells (a type of white blood cell).
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Celiac disease
(SEE-lee-ak dih-ZEEZ)
A digestive disease that is caused by an immune response to a protein called gluten, which is found in wheat, rye, barley, and oats. Celiac disease damages the lining of the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients from food. A person with celiac disease may become malnourished no matter how much food is consumed.
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Cell
sel
The smallest unit that can live on its own and that makes up all living organisms and the tissues of the body.
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Cell morphology
Refers to cell types or structure.
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Cellulitis
(sel-yoo-LY-tis)
An inflammation of body tissue (especially that below the skin). It may be accompanied by fever, redness, swelling and warmth at the site.
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Central nervous system
(SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem)
The brain and spinal cord. Also called CNS.
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Central nervous system tumors
(SEN-trul NER-vus SIS-tem TOO-mer)
A tumor of the central nervous system, including brain stem glioma, craniopharyngioma, medulloblastoma, and meningioma. Also called CNS tumor.
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Central venous catheter
(SEN-trul VEE-nus KA-theh-ter)
A device used to draw blood and give treatments, including intravenous fluids, drugs, or blood transfusions. A thin, flexible tube is inserted into a vein, usually below the collarbone. It is guided (threaded) into a large vein above the right side of the heart called the superior vena cava. A needle is inserted into a port outside of the body to draw blood or give fluids. A central venous access catheter may stay in place for weeks or months and helps avoid the need for repeated needle sticks. There are several types of central venous access catheters.
