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.
"IPD" is more commonly referred to as "Peritoneal Dialysis" in the medical community. Peritoneal Dialysis
Also Known As: "Continuous Cyclic Peritoneal Dialysis, PD, CCPD, Nocturnal Intermittent Peritoneal Dialysis, Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis, Intermittent Peritoneal Dialysis"
A type of dialysis in which waste products are removed from the abdomen through a tube. There are three forms: continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), continuous cyclic peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) and intermittent peritoneal dialysis (IPD). More Information on Peritoneal Dialysis: Kidney (Renal)
"IPM" is more commonly referred to as "Integrated Pest Management" in the medical community. Integrated Pest Management
Ecologically based pest-control techniques intended to minimize pesticide use, enhance environmental stewardship and promote sustainable systems. Examples include using the pest's natural predators to aid in control.
A bronchodilator used to prevent shortness of breath and troubled breathing caused by asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases. It relaxes and opens the air passages to the lungs, making it easier to breathe. More Information on Ipratropium Bromide: Allergy & Asthma Drugs
"IPT" is more commonly referred to as "Interpersonal Therapy" in the medical community. Interpersonal Therapy
Therapy focusing on the relationships between the patient and others, with the goal of improving interpersonal skills. More Information on Interpersonal Therapy: Therapy & Support
A mineral that assists in the transport of oxygen through the blood to body tissues. Not having enough iron can lead (in extreme cases) to a heart attack or stroke. Too much iron may also increase the risk of heart attack or other health concerns. More Information on Iron: Minerals
A mineral that assists in the transport of oxygen through the blood to body tissues. Not having enough iron can lead (in extreme cases) to a heart attack or stroke. Too much iron may also increase the risk of heart attack or other health concerns. More Information on Iron & the Heart: Heart Diet & Fitness
Depletion of iron stores in the body that is significant enough to impair production of red blood cells. It is the most common known form of nutritional deficiency. More Information on Iron Deficiency: Minerals
Too much iron in the body, which can cause toxicity and damage the heart, liver, gonads and other organs. People with certain genetic conditions (e.g., hemochromatosis) and people who receive repeated blood transfusions are at higher risk. More Information on Iron Excess: Minerals
Too much iron in the body, which can cause toxicity and damage the heart, liver, gonads and other organs. People with certain genetic conditions (e.g., hemochromatosis) and people who receive repeated blood transfusions are at higher risk. More Information on Iron Overload: Minerals
"Iron Overload Disease" is more commonly referred to as "Hemochromatosis" in the medical community. Hemochromatosis
Also Known As: "Bronze Diabetes"
A genetic condition that causes the body to absorb too much iron, leading to liver disease, diabetes and eventually heart failure. More Information on Hemochromatosis: Digestive Health Basics
A potentially fatal overdose of iron, usually occurring in children who mistake iron supplement pills for sweets and ingest them in large quantities. More Information on Iron Poisoning: Minerals
"Irradiation" is more commonly referred to as "Radiation Therapy" in the medical community. Radiation Therapy
Also Known As: "X Ray Therapy, External Radiation, Radiotherapy, External Beam Radiation"
Form of treatment using high-energy rays (e.g., x-rays), to kill or shrink cancer cells. It may be used to shrink cancer prior to surgery, kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery or as the main treatment. More Information on Radiation Therapy: Chemo & Radiation Therapy
"Irregular Heart Rhythm" is more commonly referred to as "Arrhythmia" in the medical community. Arrhythmia
Also Known As: "Cardiac Arrhythmia, Rhythm Disorder, Rhythm Disturbance, Dysrhythmia, Irregular Rhythm, Irregular Heartbeat"
An abnormal heartbeat resulting from any change, deviation or malfunction in the heart's electrical system. An arrhythmia may be abnormally fast (tachycardia) or abnormally slow (bradycardia), and some can be fatal (e.g., ventricular fibrillation). More Information on Arrhythmia: Arrhythmia
"Irregular Heartbeat" is more commonly referred to as "Arrhythmia" in the medical community. Arrhythmia
Also Known As: "Cardiac Arrhythmia, Rhythm Disorder, Rhythm Disturbance, Irregular Heart Rhythm, Dysrhythmia, Irregular Rhythm"
An abnormal heartbeat resulting from any change, deviation or malfunction in the heart's electrical system. An arrhythmia may be abnormally fast (tachycardia) or abnormally slow (bradycardia), and some can be fatal (e.g., ventricular fibrillation). More Information on Arrhythmia: Arrhythmia
"Irregular Rhythm" is more commonly referred to as "Arrhythmia" in the medical community. Arrhythmia
Also Known As: "Irregular Heartbeat, Cardiac Arrhythmia, Rhythm Disorder, Rhythm Disturbance, Irregular Heart Rhythm, Dysrhythmia"
An abnormal heartbeat resulting from any change, deviation or malfunction in the heart's electrical system. An arrhythmia may be abnormally fast (tachycardia) or abnormally slow (bradycardia), and some can be fatal (e.g., ventricular fibrillation). More Information on Arrhythmia: Arrhythmia
"Irreversible Pulpitis" is more commonly referred to as "Pulpitis" in the medical community. Pulpitis
Also Known As: "Reversible Pulpitis"
Inflammation of the pulp due to tooth decay or injury. It may be reversible (mild inflammation) or irreversible (ongoing inflammation, pressure and decreased blood flow to the pulp). The more serious form requires a root canal treatment. More Information on Pulpitis: Oral Health Basics
Also Known As: "Spastic Colon, IBS, Mucous Colitis, Spastic Bowel"
A recurrent disorder characterized by overactive nerves in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in sensitivity to food, stool, gas and stress. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea. More Information on Irritable Bowel Syndrome: IBS & Bowel Function
Also Known As: "Spastic Colon in Children, IBS in Children, Spastic Bowel in Children"
Irritable bowel syndrome affects all ages, including children. In children, the syndrome may be experience predominantly through diarrhea or constipation or through a pattern of both. Headaches, nausea and mucus in the stool may also occur. More Information on Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children: Pediatric Digestive
The most common form of contact dermatitis, accounting for more than 80 percent of reactions. Involves direct contact with an irritant, which may not be an allergen. Under certain conditions, almost any chemical can cause contact dermatitis. More Information on Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Dermatitis, Eczema & Hives
"Irritant Pneumonia" is more commonly referred to as "Pneumonia" in the medical community. Pneumonia
Also Known As: "Fungal Pneumonia, Allergic Pneumonia, Bacterial Pneumonia, Parasitic Pneumonia, Chemical Pneumonia, Viral Pneumonia"
Inflammation of the lungs with congestion that may be caused by infection (e.g., bacteria, virus, fungi, parasites) or irritants (e.g., allergens, pollutants, chemicals). Common symptoms include fever, chills, coughing and/or difficulty breathing. More Information on Pneumonia: Pneumonia & Lung Infection
"Irritant Rhinitis" is more commonly referred to as "Rhinitis" in the medical community. Rhinitis
Also Known As: "Infectious Rhinitis, Drug Induced Rhinitis, Vasomotor Rhinitis, Structural Rhinitis, Rhinitis Medicamentosa, Hormonal Rhinitis, Eosinophilic Rhinitis"
Inflammation of the mucous membrane, which lines the nose. It may be caused by infection, allergies or a combination of both. Symptoms may include sneezing, itching, nasal congestion or runny nose. More Information on Rhinitis: Nose & Throat
Inflammation of the lining of the sinus cavities in the face. It can be caused by infection, irritants or allergies, and may be acute or chronic. Symptoms may include runny nose, headache, teeth sensitivity, nasal congestion and facial swelling. More Information on Sinusitis: Nose & Throat
"IS" is more commonly referred to as "Infantile Spasms" in the medical community. Infantile Spasms
Age-related seizures. These seizures usually appear within the first year of life. They may be caused by a variety of medical conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy). More Information on Infantile Spasms: Pediatric Brain & Nerve
A rare neuromuscular disorder caused by continuous signaling of the end regions of peripheral nerve fibers that activate motor neurons. Symptoms include progressive muscle stiffness, continuous twitching muscles and increased sweating. More Information on Isaac's Syndrome: Movement Disorders
An episode of restricted blood flow to a major organ. Cardiac ischemia (restricted blood flow to the heart) could lead to a heart attack. Cerebral ischemia (restricted blood flow to the brain) could lead to a stroke. More Information on Ischemia: Stroke
A chronic disorder caused by coronary artery disease (CAD) - a disease in which there is hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) on the surface of the heart. More Information on Ischemic Cardiomyopathy: Heart Failure
Decreased blood flow to the colon, resulting in tissue death. Symptoms include pain, fever and bloody diarrhea. More Information on Ischemic Colitis: Inflammatory Bowel (Colitis)
"Ischemic heart disease" is more commonly referred to as "Cardiac Ischemia" in the medical community. Cardiac Ischemia
Also Known As: "Silent ischemia, Myocardial ischemia, Myocardium ischemia"
Ischemia is an episode of restricted blood flow to a major organ. Cardiac ischemia (restricted blood flow to the heart) could lead to a heart attack. More Information on Cardiac Ischemia: Cholesterol
"Ischemic Stroke" is more commonly referred to as "Stroke & the Brain" in the medical community. Stroke & the Brain
Also Known As: "Embolic Stroke, CVA, Cerebrovascular Accident, Brain Attack, Thrombotic Stroke, Hemorrhagic Stroke"
A potentially fatal event in which oxygen-rich blood flow to the brain is restricted. There are two main types: ischemic (caused by obstructing blood clot) and hemorrhagic (caused by bleeding in the brain). Ischemic is most common. More Information on Stroke & the Brain: Stroke
"ISDN" is more commonly referred to as "Imdur" in the medical community. Imdur
Also Known As: "Monoket, Dilatrate, Sorbitrate, Isordil"
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
"ISDS" is more commonly referred to as "International Society for Dermatologic Surgery" in the medical community. International Society for Dermatologic Surgery
An organization with a mission to provide a worldwide forum for dermatologists who offer surgical treatment to their patients.
"ISFC" is more commonly referred to as "International Society and Federation of Cardiology" in the medical community. International Society and Federation of Cardiology
A consortium of cardiology and heart foundations from more than 75 countries in the Americas, Asia-Pacific region, Europe and Africa. The ISFC is active in research, the teaching of scientists and cardiology professionals, and public education.
"ISHB" is more commonly referred to as "International Society on Hypertension in Blacks" in the medical community. International Society on Hypertension in Blacks
Founded in 1986, ISHB and its members are committed to improving the health and lives of ethnic populations facing a high risk of hypertension. Activities include the promotion of research, community education, meetings and publications.
"ISHRS" is more commonly referred to as "International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery" in the medical community. International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery
A nonprofit organization made up of more than 700 hair restoration doctors specializing in hair loss.
Clumps of cells within the pancreas. Magnified, they look like islands and may be referred to as such. They include alpha cells (which produce glucagon), beta cells (which produce insulin) and delta cells (which produce somatostatin). More Information on Islands of Langerhans: Diabetes & Endocrine Basics
"Islet Cell Adenomatosis" is more commonly referred to as "Persistent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia of Infancy" in the medical community. Persistent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia of Infancy
Also Known As: "Diffuse Discrete Beta Cell Abnormality, PHHI, Nesidioblastosis, Nesidioblastoma, Focal Adenomatous Hyperplasia, Islet Cell Dysmaturation Syndrome"
A group of rare conditions (most often occur in infancy) in which the beta cells of the pancreas secrete too much insulin. While the opposite of type 1 diabetes (the body produces no insulin), it involves regular glucose testing as with diabetes. More Information on Persistent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia of Infancy: Pediatric Diabetes
A type of antibody (proteins released in response to foreign antigens) that is found in many people with type 1 diabetes at the time the condition is diagnosed. It is believed that these antibodies occur due to damage to islet cells of the pancreas. More Information on Islet Cell Antibodies: Diabetes & Endocrine Basics
A type of pancreatic cancer affecting the islet cells -- clumps of cells in the pancreas that look like an island and may be referred to as Islands of Langerhans. More Information on Islet Cell Carcinoma: Gastrointestinal System Cancer
"Islet Cell Dysmaturation Syndrome" is more commonly referred to as "Persistent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia of Infancy" in the medical community. Persistent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia of Infancy
Also Known As: "Diffuse Discrete Beta Cell Abnormality, PHHI, Islet Cell Adenomatosis, Nesidioblastosis, Nesidioblastoma, Focal Adenomatous Hyperplasia"
A group of rare conditions (most often occur in infancy) in which the beta cells of the pancreas secrete too much insulin. While the opposite of type 1 diabetes (the body produces no insulin), it involves regular glucose testing as with diabetes. More Information on Persistent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia of Infancy: Pediatric Diabetes
A procedure in which healthy beta cells are transplanted into a person whose pancreas no longer produces insulin. Beta cells are the type of islet cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This procedure is promising, but still experimental. More Information on Islet Cell Transplant: Type 1 Diabetes Basics
Clumps of cells within the pancreas. Magnified, they look like islands and may be referred to as such. They include alpha cells (which produce glucagon), beta cells (which produce insulin) and delta cells (which produce somatostatin). More Information on Islet Cells: Diabetes & Endocrine Basics
"Islet Cells Adenoma" is more commonly referred to as "Insulinoma" in the medical community. Insulinoma
Also Known As: "Insuloma"
A rare tumor, usually benign, that occurs within the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. It results in an excess amount of insulin being secreted into the blood, leading to hunger, anxiety, seizures, coma or other serious symptoms. More Information on Insulinoma: Insulin
Also Known As: "Islet Cells, Islands of Langerhans"
Clumps of cells within the pancreas. Magnified, they look like islands and may be referred to as such. They include alpha cells (which produce glucagon), beta cells (which produce insulin) and delta cells (which produce somatostatin). More Information on Islets of Langerhans: Diabetes & Endocrine Basics
"Isoflavones" is more commonly referred to as "Phytoestrogens" in the medical community. Phytoestrogens
Natural compounds that mimic estrogen. They are found in alfalfa sprouts, apples, berries, corn, flaxseed, linseed, nuts, oats, soy products, sunflower seeds and wheat. They have many purported health benefits and may be sold as dietary supplements. More Information on Phytoestrogens: Herbs & Supplements
The development of antibodies directed at the red blood cells of another individual, like a fetus in the uterus. Occurs when the rhesus (Rh) type of the mother is different from that of the fetus. More Information on Isoimmunization: Pregnancy Management
To separate or cut off from others, such as when an ill person is quarantined to prevent infection from spreading to others. More Information on Isolate: Infectious Disease Basics
"Isolated Limb Perfusion" is more commonly referred to as "Limb Perfusion" in the medical community. Limb Perfusion
A technique for administering cancer drugs directly to a tumor within a limb (arms or legs). Circulation is temporarily cut off to and from the rest of the body while the drug is administered, allowing the drug to concentrate around the cancer site. More Information on Limb Perfusion: Chemo & Radiation Therapy
A form of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) primarily affecting femoral and some cranial nerves. Causes pain and numbness in thigh and vision difficulties. More Information on Isolated Peripheral Neuropathy: Neuropathy
Exercises in which a muscle is tightened repeatedly without joint movement. It is especially beneficial to patients who have had injuries that limit their range of motion.
"Isometric Tremors" is more commonly referred to as "Action Tremors" in the medical community. Action Tremors
Also Known As: "Postural Tremors, Intention Tremors, Kinetic Tremors"
A type of tremor (involuntary movement) that occurs or increases when the body part (usually the hand) is moving voluntarily. Types include postural, isometric, kinetic and intention tremors. More Information on Action Tremors: Movement Disorders
Exercises in which a muscle is tightened repeatedly without joint movement. It is especially beneficial to patients who have had injuries that limit their range of motion.
"Isordil" is more commonly referred to as "Imdur" in the medical community. Imdur
Also Known As: "Monoket, 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
Infection of the epithelial cells of the small intestine with the coccidian parasite Isospora belli. It is the least common of the three intestinal coccidia that infect humans. More Information on Isospora Infection: Parasitic Disease
Infection of the epithelial cells of the small intestine with the coccidian parasite Isospora belli. It is the least common of the three intestinal coccidia that infect humans. More Information on Isosporiasis: Parasitic Disease
Phytochemicals in the family of organosulfur compounds (sulfur-containing compounds). They may appear in foods with a pungent odor (e.g., cabbage, broccoli) and are believed to stimulate enzyme activity in the body, which may help fight cancer. More Information on Isothiocyanates: Herbs & Supplements
"Isothiocyantes" is more commonly referred to as "Indoles" in the medical community. Indoles
Also Known As: "Dithiothiones"
A class of phytochemicals (plant chemicals) found in cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cabbage, mustard greens). They are believed to affect estrogen metabolism in the body, possibly reducing the risk of certain cancers. More Information on Indoles: Herbs & Supplements
A type of dehydration in which water and sodium are lost in equal amounts while electrolyte levels remain in balance. More Information on Isotonic Dehydration: Water & Hydration
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