Pathology

Plasma is a state of matter in which a gas becomes ionized, containing free electrons and ions. It is distinct from solids, liquids, and non-ionized gases, and is characterized by its conductive properties and responsiveness to electromagnetic fields. In biology and medicine, plasma refers to the liquid component of blood; in physics, it denotes ionized gas used in various technologies. (2-4 sentences, 50-80 words)

Pleomorphism refers to variability in form within a species or organism, often describing differences in cell or organism morphology under varying conditions. In biology and pathology, it denotes structural diversity that can affect function, diagnosis, or classification. The term blends Greek roots referring to form and shape, highlighting the concept of multiple shapes within a single lineage or species.

Ploidy is a biological term referring to the number of complete sets of chromosomes in a cell or organism. It denotes how many full chromosome copies exist, such as haploid, diploid, or polyploid states. The concept is central to genetics, cell division, and evolution, affecting inheritance, reproduction, and genome stability.

Polycythemia is a medical condition characterized by an abnormally high concentration of red blood cells in the bloodstream. It can be primary or secondary and may lead to thickened blood and impaired circulation. The term is used in clinical contexts and requires careful pronunciation due to its multisyllabic structure and Greek/Latin roots.

Polyposis refers to the condition of having multiple polyps, usually in the mucous membranes of the digestive tract or nasal passages. It denotes a pathological proliferation of polyp tissue and can be associated with hereditary syndromes or sporadic occurrences. In medical contexts, it often implies a risk of malignancy or complications stemming from polyp burden.

A medical term referring to abnormal enlargement of a body part due to the growth of tissue that is not a true hypertrophy of muscle. It describes an apparent enlargement caused by fat or other non-muscle elements, rather than an increase in functional muscle fibers. The term is used in clinical contexts to differentiate true muscle growth from perceived enlargement.

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that originates from connective tissue such as bone, muscle, fat, or cartilage. It is characterized by malignant growths that arise from mesenchymal cells, often presenting as a soft-tissue lump or deep-seated mass. The term distinguishes malignant tumors from carcinomas, lymphomas, and leukemias, and knowledge of its nature informs treatment options and prognosis.

Scarring refers to the formation of a scar, a mark left on the skin or elsewhere after a wound heals. It also describes physical or psychological damage that leaves a lasting trace. The term can be used in medical, cosmetic, or metaphorical contexts to denote lasting impact or imperfection.

Schwannoma is a benign nerve sheath tumor arising from Schwann cells, most commonly affecting cranial or peripheral nerves. It typically grows slowly and presents as a localized, painless mass or neurologic deficit corresponding to the affected nerve. Treatment often involves surgical resection or observation, depending on size, growth, and symptoms.

Serology is the branch of science that studies blood serum, particularly its immune responses and the identification of antibodies in serum. It involves tests and analyses used to diagnose diseases, determine immune status, and support transfusion safety. In practice, serology bridges immunology and clinical diagnostics through antibody-antigen interactions observed in laboratory settings.

Thrombocytosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormally high platelet count in the blood. It is typically asymptomatic but can reflect reactive processes or certain myeloproliferative disorders. The term combines Greek roots for platelets (thrombo-) and growth/production (-cytosis), indicating increased cellular production. It is used mainly in clinical contexts and medical literature.

Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot inside a blood vessel, which can restrict or obstruct blood flow. It is a medical condition often requiring urgent assessment, with risk of embolism if a clot dislodges. The term is used across clinical contexts, including arterial and venous thrombosis, and implications vary by location. (2-4 sentences, 50-80 words)

A thrombus is a blood clot formed within a blood vessel or the heart, potentially obstructing flow. It can originate in arteries or veins and may lead to serious complications if dislodged. The term is used in medical contexts to describe the solid mass that results from the coagulation of blood components at a site of vessel injury or abnormal flow.

Ulceration is the process of formation or development of an ulcer, or the condition of being ulcerated. It describes tissue breakdown, typically with a break in the surface and often accompanied by inflammation or infection. In medical contexts, ulceration denotes a pathological erosion that may affect skin or mucous membranes and can be chronic or acute depending on underlying causes.

Uremia is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of waste products in the blood due to kidney failure or impaired kidney function. It presents with nonspecific symptoms but can progress to serious systemic effects if untreated. The term combines Latin roots for urine and blood, reflecting the buildup of urea and other compounds in the bloodstream.

Vasculitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of blood vessel walls, which can restrict blood flow and lead to organ damage. It encompasses various diseases where arteries, veins, or capillaries become inflamed, sometimes causing fever, fatigue, and rash. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.