Medical

Radiation therapy in which a small container of radioactive material is implanted in the body, in or near the cancerous tumor.

The medical specialty dedicated to the diagnosis and medical treatment of adults. A physician who specializes in internal medicine is referred to as an internist.

A localized reaction that produces redness, warmth, swelling, and pain as a result of infection, irritation, or injury. Inflammation can be external or internal.

To penetrate. For example, a cancer may grow into, or infiltrate, surrounding tissues.

A specific viral infection (with the Epstein-Barr virus) in which there is an increase of white blood cells that are mononuclear (with a single nucleus) "Mono" and "kissing disease" are popular terms

The pressing together of teeth. For example, molar teeth (the large teeth in the back of the jaw) can be impacted, cause pain, and require pain medication, antibiotics, and surgical removal.

Suppression of the immune system and its ability to fight infection.

See immunosuppression.

The standard vaccine given to prevent measles, mumps and rubella (German measles). The MMR vaccine is now given in two dosages. The first should be given at 12-15 months of age.

An operation to remove the uterus. Hysterectomies are most commonly performed as a treatment for fibroids, cancer or severe dysplasia of the uterus, and for dysfunctional uterine bleeding.