Use the A-Z list to browse more than 6,000 health-related topics in our library. Clicking on a term opens the definition and, in most cases, links to more information.
A birth defect caused by abnormal sixth and seventh cranial nerves, which control eye movements and facial expression. From birth, infants may not be able to suck. Other symptoms are excessive drooling and crossed eyes. More Information on Mobius Syndrome: Birth & Genetic Disorders
Moderately advanced inflammation of the gums and other structures supporting the teeth. Treatment includes scaling, root planing and possibly surgery to reshape the gums to fit the teeth or to encourage bone regrowth. More Information on Moderate Periodontal Disease: Oral Infections
"Moderate Self Mutilation" is more commonly referred to as "Superficial Self Mutilation" in the medical community. Superficial Self Mutilation
The most common type of self-mutilation, involving superficial to moderate lacerations (cutting) or burns of one's own skin. It is most often seen with personality disorders. More Information on Superficial Self Mutilation: Emotional Signs & Symptoms
A test in which an x-ray is taken of the uppermost parts of the digestive tract (including the mouth, pharynx and esophagus) after the ingestion of liquid barium. It is used in people at risk of inhaling food or liquids, such as the elderly. More Information on Modified Barium Swallow: Digestive Imaging Tests
A screening test for autism usually given at a child's 18-month checkup. It consists of questions to a parent about the child's behavior, as well as questions based on the physician's observation of the child. More Information on Modified Checklist of Autism in Toddlers: Autism & Related Disorders
A type of mastectomy that involves removal of the breast, skin, nipple, areola and most of the lymph nodes under the arm on the same side of the body (axillary dissection). However, unlike with radical mastectomy, the chest muscles are left intact. More Information on Modified Radical Mastectomy: Breast Cancer
"MODY" is more commonly referred to as "Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young" in the medical community. Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young
A genetic form of diabetes that leads to impaired insulin production. Neither type 1 nor type 2, it may be called type 1.5. It develops at a younger age than type 2 and does not involve insulin resistance, a sedentary lifestyle or excess weight. More Information on Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young: Pediatric Diabetes
"Mohs College" is more commonly referred to as "American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology" in the medical community. American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology
Also Known As: "ACMMSCO"
Organization dedicated to promoting a type of advanced treatment for skin cancer developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs in the 1930s which involves removing diseased tissue and examining it under a microscope.
Also Known As: "Mohs Surgery, Mohs Micrographically Controlled Surgery"
Advanced treatment procedure for skin cancer developed by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs in the 1930s that involves removing skin tissue and examining it under a microscope. More Information on Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Skin Surgery
Advanced treatment procedure for skin cancer developed by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs in the 1930s that involves removing skin tissue and examining it under a microscope. More Information on Mohs Micrographically Controlled Surgery: Skin Surgery
Also Known As: "Mohs Micrographically Controlled Surgery"
Advanced treatment procedure for skin cancer developed by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs in the 1930s that involves removing skin tissue and examining it under a microscope. More Information on Mohs Surgery: Skin Surgery
"Moist Gangrene" is more commonly referred to as "Gangrene" in the medical community. Gangrene
Also Known As: "Wet Gangrene, Dry Gangrene, Gas Gangrene, Internal Gangrene"
Tissue death (necrosis) that occurs due to an interruption in blood supply to a body part. There are four types: dry, moist, gas and internal. When it affects the limbs, it can lead to amputation. More Information on Gangrene: Diabetes Foot & Leg
Tooth behind the premolars (bicuspids) on either side of the jaw that is used for grinding. It has a large crown and broad chewing surface. More Information on Molar: Oral Health Basics
Also Known As: "Hydatidiform Mole, Gestational Trophoblastic Tumor, Gestational Trophoblastic Disease, Choriocarcinoma, Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia"
A rare cancer in women of childbearing age in which cancer cells grow in the tissues that are formed in the uterus after conception. It may occur when a baby does not develop, following an abortion or miscarriage or after a baby has been born. More Information on Molar Pregnancy: ObGyn Cancer
An orthodontic procedure performed to correct the position of a molar leaning forward, usually toward a spot where a tooth is missing. More Information on Molar Uprighting: Oral Infections
Microscopic fungi that is a common trigger for allergies. Mold spores are airborne particles found in damp indoor or outdoor areas, such as bathrooms, basements, grass, leaf piles, etc. More Information on Mold & Mildew: Indoor Allergies
A measure of the amount of airborne mold spores in grains per cubic meter of air. It is often reported in conjunction with pollen counts from trees, weeds and grass. Levels are also expressed as absent, low, medium or high. More Information on Mold Count: Outdoor Allergies
"Molded Jackets" is more commonly referred to as "Back Braces" in the medical community. Back Braces
Also Known As: "Lumbosacral Belts, Raney Flexion Jackets, Lumbar Braces, Williams Braces, Hyperextension Braces, Sacroiliac Belts, Chair Back Braces"
Devices used to help stabilize the lower back. There are many types, including various belts, corsets, braces and jackets. More Information on Back Braces: Head & Spine Injury
Treatment that uses medications to block the growth or spread of cancers. They work by blocking specific molecules involved in the process of changing normal cells into cancer cells and the growth of tumors. More Information on Molecular Targeted Therapy: Chemo & Radiation Therapy
Also Known As: "Targeted Cancer Therapy, Molecular Targeted Therapy"
Treatment that uses medications to block the growth or spread of cancers. They work by blocking specific molecules involved in the process of changing normal cells into cancer cells and the growth of tumors. More Information on Molecular Therapy: Chemo & Radiation Therapy
Medications used to block the growth or spread of cancers. They work by blocking specific molecules involved in the process of changing normal cells into cancer cells and the growth of tumors. More Information on Molecular Therapy Drugs: Cancer Drug & Medication
Medications used to block the growth or spread of cancers. They work by blocking specific molecules involved in the process of changing normal cells into cancer cells and the growth of tumors. More Information on Molecular Therapy Medications: Cancer Drug & Medication
Collections of pigmented cells called melanocytes that appear on skin. Most are present on the torso but are also commonly found on the face, arms and legs. Usually present at birth, some develop later and may be dangerous. More Information on Moles: Skin Growths
Collections of pigmented cells called melanocytes that appear on skin. Most are present on the torso but are also commonly found on the face, arms and legs. Usually present at birth, some develop later and may be dangerous. More Information on Moles & Children: Skin Growths
"Molindone" is more commonly referred to as "Thioridazine" in the medical community. Thioridazine
Also Known As: "Haloperidol, Pimozide, Loxapine"
A type of antipsychotic, medication used to treat schizophrenia and symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions and hostility. More Information on Thioridazine: Psychiatric Medications
Small, harmless growths caused by a skin virus that resemble pimples. They are contagious and are spread by physical contact. They occur most often in children, but also affect adults and spread through sexual contact. More Information on Molluscum Contagiosum: Skin Related Infections
A trace mineral involved in three enzyme systems that help metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It is also found in tooth enamel. More Information on Molybdenum: Minerals
"Mometasone" is more commonly referred to as "Steroid Nasal Sprays" in the medical community. Steroid Nasal Sprays
Also Known As: "Flunisolide, Beclomethasone, Fluticasone, Triamcinolone"
Medications similar to the body's own hormones used to combat nasal inflammation associated with hay fever. They deliver the steroid medication in the form a a fine mist directly into the nasal passages. More Information on Steroid Nasal Sprays: Nose & Throat
Also Known As: "Infectious Mononucleosis, Kissing Disease, Glandular Fever, Chronic Mononucleosis, Pfeiffer's Disease"
A viral infection causing high temperature, fatigue, sore throat and swollen lymph glands, especially in the neck. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and can be spread through saliva or sexual contact. More Information on Mono: Nose & Throat
"Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors" is more commonly referred to as "MAOIs" in the medical community. MAOIs
Also Known As: "MAO Inhibitors, MAOI Drugs"
Antidepressants often used to treat major depression in patients who do not respond to other medications. They are also used to treat bipolar disorder and panic disorder. Examples include phenelzine, tranylcypromine and isocarboxazid. More Information on MAOIs: Psychiatric Medications
"Monoclonal Anti IgE Antibody" is more commonly referred to as "Anti IgE Antibody" in the medical community. Anti IgE Antibody
Also Known As: "Rhumab E25 Antibody, Omalizumab"
An injectable drug that reduces asthma and allergic reactions. The drug stops the release of histamine, which causes allergic reactions, by blocking antibodies (IgE) from binding with mast cells. More Information on Anti IgE Antibody: Allergy & Asthma Drugs
Also Known As: "Cetuximab, Apolizumab, Dacliximab, Trastuzumab, Bevacizumab, Rituximab, Alemtuzumab"
Any of a type of antibody made in the laboratory and designed to target specific substances called antigens. They are used to treat several conditions, including some types of cancer. More Information on Monoclonal Antibodies: Cancer Drug & Medication
The largest type of white blood cell that devours viruses, bacteria and fungi. It also removes dead cells and debris. More Information on Monocytes: Infectious Disease Basics
"Monoket" is more commonly referred to as "Imdur" in the medical community. Imdur
Also Known As: "Isordil, Dilatrate, Sorbitrate, ISDN"
A brand of nitrate, medications that relax the smooth muscles, most notably those of the heart and blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure, improves blood flow to the heart and reduces the heart's need for oxygen. More Information on Imdur: Heart Drug & Medication
Also Known As: "Hirayama Syndrome, Benign Focal Amyotrophy, O'Sullivan McLeod Syndrome"
A progressive degeneration and loss of motor neurons marked by weakness and wasting in a single limb, typically an arm and hand. There is no cure, but muscle strengthening exercises and training in hand coordination can help. More Information on Monomelic Amyotrophy: Movement Disorders
A type of neuropathy (nerve damage) that affects a single nerve. In people with diabetes, the most common site of mononeuropathy is in the eye. More Information on Mononeuropathy: Neuropathy
Also Known As: "Infectious Mononucleosis, Kissing Disease, Mono, Glandular Fever, Chronic Mononucleosis, Pfeiffer's Disease"
A viral infection causing high temperature, fatigue, sore throat and swollen lymph glands, especially in the neck. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and can be spread through saliva or sexual contact. More Information on Mononucleosis: Nose & Throat
A brand of ACE inhibitors, medications that widen blood vessels and lower blood pressure by blocking the production of angiotensin II. ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. More Information on Monopril: Heart Drug & Medication
Any of several carbohydrates that cannot be broken down to simpler sugars by hydrolysis. Examples include glucose, fructose and galactose. More Information on Monosaccharides: Carbs & Sugars
A food additive used to enhance flavor, especially in Asian cooking. MSG can cause a reaction in a small percentage of people, but the FDA notes that there is little scientific evidence of it causing serious adverse reactions. More Information on Monosodium Glutamate: Additives & Seasonings
Also Known As: "MSG Reaction, Chinese Restaurant Syndrome, MSG Sensitivity"
Allergic reaction to a food additive used to enhance flavor, especially in Asian cooking. MSG can cause a reaction in a small percentage of people, but the FDA notes that there is little scientific evidence of it causing serious adverse reactions. More Information on Monosodium Glutamate Sensitivity: Food Allergy & Intolerance
"Monosomy X" is more commonly referred to as "Turner Syndrome" in the medical community. Turner Syndrome
Also Known As: "45 X Karyotype"
A genetic disorder when a girl has only one X chromosome. Characterized by a short stature, poor sexual development, infertility and physical abnormalities, such as a webbed neck. More Information on Turner Syndrome: Birth & Genetic Disorders
Phytochemicals found in citrus fruit peels and oils. They may serve as anticarcinogens (preventing or fighting cancer). These may also be sold as ingredients in dietary supplements. Types include perillyl alcohol (POH) and limonene. More Information on Monoterpenes: Herbs & Supplements
A type of unsaturated fat that is liquid at room temperature. It does not increase levels of cholesterol or triglycerides, and may even help to reduce them. It is found in many vegetable oils such as canola, olive and peanut oils. More Information on Monounsaturated Fat: Fats & Oils
"Montelukast" is more commonly referred to as "Leukotriene Modifiers" in the medical community. Leukotriene Modifiers
Also Known As: "Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists, Zileuton, Leukotriene Antagonist, Zafirlukast"
A new class of drugs for the treatment of asthma. Leukotrienes are chemical compounds released in the body during an inflammatory process, which cause the airways to narrow. The drug blocks the production or the action of leukotrienes. More Information on Leukotriene Modifiers: Allergy & Asthma Drugs
Glands located around the areola of the nipple that enlarge during pregnancy and breastfeeding and supply oils to lubricate the nipple. More Information on Montgomery Glands: Breast Health
A mental disorder that affects mood and interferes with the ability to function. Examples include major depression and bipolar disorder. More Information on Mood Disorders: Depression & Bipolar
Medications of various other drug classes that are effective at treating fluctuations of mood regardless of the cause of that fluctuation. They may be used to treat mania, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. More Information on Mood Stabilizer Drug: Psychiatric Medications
Medications of various other drug classes that are effective at treating fluctuations of mood regardless of the cause of that fluctuation. They may be used to treat mania, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. More Information on Mood Stabilizer Medication: Psychiatric Medications
Also Known As: "Mood Stabilizer Medication, Mood Stabilizer Drug"
Medications of various other drug classes that are effective at treating fluctuations of mood regardless of the cause of that fluctuation. They may be used to treat mania, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. More Information on Mood Stabilizers: Psychiatric Medications
Extreme obesity, usually defined as having a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40 or needing to lose 100 pounds or more to achieve a recommended body weight. More Information on Morbid Obesity: Weight & Obesity Basics
"Morgangni" is more commonly referred to as "Stokes Adams Disease" in the medical community. Stokes Adams Disease
Also Known As: "Adams Stokes Disease"
An interruption in the path of electrical impulses from the atria to the ventricles, creating a lack of communication regarding the heartbeat (a heart block). Causes an abnormally slow heartbeat and even fainting from lack of oxygen to the brain. More Information on Stokes Adams Disease: Arrhythmia
Also Known As: "Emergency Contraception, Post Coital Pill"
An oral drug that usually, but not always, prevents pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. Most effective when taken within 24 hours of intercourse, but may work for up to 72 hours. More Information on Morning After Pill: Contraception
"Morning Cough" is more commonly referred to as "Chronic Cough" in the medical community. Chronic Cough
Also Known As: "Nighttime Cough"
Coughing that occurs at night, in the early morning, with exercise or with exposure to cold air. It may indicate an allergy. More Information on Chronic Cough: Breathing & Lung
Nausea, vomiting and other symptoms experienced by many pregnant women, especially during the first trimester. Can occur at any time of day and sometimes last throughout pregnancy. More Information on Morning Sickness: Pregnancy Management
"Morphea" is more commonly referred to as "Localized Scleroderma" in the medical community. Localized Scleroderma
Also Known As: "Linear Scleroderma"
A skin disorder characterized by the thickening and hardening of the skin. It affects the skin and sometimes the tissue and muscle below it but does not progress to any other systems. The two main types are morphea and linear. More Information on Localized Scleroderma: Psoriasis & Autoimmune Skin
Illnesses passed to humans through mosquito bites that result in inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). More Information on Mosquito Borne Diseases: Infectious Disease Basics
"Mosquito Borne Encephalitis" is more commonly referred to as "Arborviral Encephalitis" in the medical community. Arborviral Encephalitis
Also Known As: "Arboviral Encephalitides, Mosquito Transmitted Encephalitis"
Inflammation of the brain caused by viruses carried by arthropods, such as mosquitoes and ticks (arboviruses). More Information on Arborviral Encephalitis: Brain Related Infections
"Mosquito Transmitted Encephalitis" is more commonly referred to as "Arborviral Encephalitis" in the medical community. Arborviral Encephalitis
Also Known As: "Arboviral Encephalitides, Mosquito Borne Encephalitis"
Inflammation of the brain caused by viruses carried by arthropods, such as mosquitoes and ticks (arboviruses). More Information on Arborviral Encephalitis: Brain Related Infections
"Mother Spot Disease" is more commonly referred to as "Phakomatoses" in the medical community. Phakomatoses
Any of a group of disorders of the nervous system and skin that are present at birth and probably hereditary and are characterized by the development of benign, tumorlike malformations in various tissues. More Information on Phakomatoses: Birth & Genetic Disorders
"Motility Disorders" is more commonly referred to as "Functional Disorders" in the medical community. Functional Disorders
Also Known As: "Functional Bowel Disorders, Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders, Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders"
Disorders caused by poor nerve and muscle function, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Symptoms occur repeatedly, but there are no signs of disease or damage. More Information on Functional Disorders: IBS & Bowel Function
"Motor Alexia" is more commonly referred to as "Alexia" in the medical community. Alexia
Also Known As: "Musical Alexia, Optic Alexia"
A loss (or lessening) of the ability to comprehend written language or to read aloud. It is caused by a lesion in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Types include motor, musical and optic. More Information on Alexia: Neuro Signs & Symptoms
Also Known As: "Esophageal Motor Disorders, Esophageal Motility Disorders"
Disorders that affect the ability of the esophagus to move food toward the stomach, generally causing the patient to take a long time to swallow. More Information on Motor Esophageal Disorders: Digestive Health Basics
Progressive neurological disorders that destroy motor neurons. Symptoms include gradual weakening, wasting away and uncontrollable twitching of the muscles. There is no cure, but physical therapy and other treatments may help. More Information on Motor Neuron Diseases: Movement Disorders
Proteins that use energy and convert it into some form of mechanical work. They are active in processes such as cell division, muscle contraction and sperm movement. Examples include dynein, kinesin and myosin.
"Mouth Abscess" is more commonly referred to as "Abscessed Teeth & Gums" in the medical community. Abscessed Teeth & Gums
Also Known As: "Endodontic Abscess, Gum Abscess, Abscessed Teeth, Periodontal Abscess, Tooth Abscess, Abscessed Gums, Dental Abscess"
An area of pus that forms as the result of a bacterial infection. In the mouth, these may form in the gums, in teeth roots or after root canal treatment or in the gums. More Information on Abscessed Teeth & Gums: Oral Infections
"Mouth Cancers" is more commonly referred to as "Oral Cancers" in the medical community. Oral Cancers
Also Known As: "Oral Cavity Cancers, Lip Cancers"
Cancer of the mouth, lip and/or oropharynx (part of the throat at the back of the mouth). Most begin in the tongue and in the floor of the mouth. Tobacco, alcohol, sun exposure and a medical history of cancer are risk factors. More Information on Oral Cancers: Head, Neck & Mouth Cancer
"Mouth Candidiasis" is more commonly referred to as "Thrush" in the medical community. Thrush
Also Known As: "Oropharyngeal Candidiasis, Thrush Mouth, Tongue Candidiasis, OPC, Oral Candidiasis, Oral Thrush, Tinea Nigra"
A yeast infection of the mouth characterized by whitish patches on the corners of the mouth, insides of the cheeks, tongue, palate and throat. It is caused by overgrowth of Candida fungus and is common in babies. More Information on Thrush: Oral Infections
"Mouth Debridement" is more commonly referred to as "Oral Debridement" in the medical community. Oral Debridement
Also Known As: "Full Mouth Debridement"
The removal of heavy amounts of plaque and tartar from the teeth. It typically is performed on patients who have not visited the dentist in several years and may be the first part of comprehensive periodontal treatment. More Information on Oral Debridement: Oral Health Basics
Devices worn to protect a patient's teeth during athletic activities. They also help prevent injuries to the lips, tongue, face and jaw. Types are available to prevent tooth grinding or treat temporomandibular disorders. More Information on Mouth Guards: Oral Health Basics
Also Known As: "Prescription Mouth Rinses, Dental Mouth Rinses, Cosmetic Mouth Rinses"
Liquids to rinse the teeth and gums that are available over-the-counter or by prescription. Both remove oral debris, temporarily suppress bad breath, diminish bacteria and refresh the mouth. Prescription rinses also protect against oral diseases. More Information on Mouth Rinses: Oral Health Basics
Annoying, often painful injuries to the tissue that may be symptoms of a disease or disorder. Examples include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis. A dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer. More Information on Mouth Sores: Oral Signs & Symptoms
"Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation" is more commonly referred to as "CPR" in the medical community. CPR
Also Known As: "Cardiac Compression, Heart-Lung Resuscitation, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Artificial Respiration"
An emergency technique that helps someone whose heart and/or breathing has stopped. CPR cannot restart the heart but can make sure that blood and oxygen continue to circulate through the body, keeping the patient alive until help can arrive. More Information on CPR: First Aid & Safety
Also Known As: "Prescription Mouth Rinses, Mouth Rinses, Dental Mouth Rinses, Cosmetic Mouth Rinses"
Liquids to rinse the teeth and gums that are available over-the-counter or by prescription. Both remove oral debris, temporarily suppress bad breath, diminish bacteria and refresh the mouth. Prescription rinses also protect against oral diseases. More Information on Mouthwash: Oral Health Basics
Any of several conditions preventing normal movement. Some are marked by lack of movement while others manifest as excessive movement. Examples are Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Tourette syndrome and cerebral palsy. More Information on Movement Disorders: Movement Disorders
International professional society focusing on Parkinson's disease, related neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders, hyperkinetic movement disorders, and abnormalities in muscle tone and motor control.
"Movitz AV Block" is more commonly referred to as "Heart Block" in the medical community. Heart Block
Also Known As: "Third Degree Heart Block, Atrioventricular Block, First Degree Heart Block, Complete Heart Block, Second Degree Heart Block, AV Block, Complete AV Block"
The delayed or complete lack of electrical communication between the heart's upper chambers and lower chambers. This causes abnormally slow heart rhythms. It may be classified by the extent that electrical activity is disrupted. More Information on Heart Block: Arrhythmia
"Moxifloxacin" is more commonly referred to as "Ciprofloxacin" in the medical community. Ciprofloxacin
Also Known As: "Gatifloxacin, Levofloxacin, Norfloxacin, Enoxacin, Lomefloxacin, Ofloxacin"
A type of antibiotic belonging to the drug class of fluoroquinolones. These medications kill or slow the growth of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria. They have no effect on viruses. More Information on Ciprofloxacin: Digestive Medications
A progressive cerebrovascular disorder caused by blocked arteries at the base of the brain in the area of the basal ganglia. It primarily affects children. Revascularization surgery can restore blood flow to the brain. More Information on Moyamoya Disease: Vascular Disease
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