Glossary
C
common cold
a widespread infectious virus disease causing inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and bronchial tubes. Symptoms include a sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, headache, cough, and general malaise.
comparative anatomy
The study of the different physical forms of all animals including humans.
compass microscope
Hand held simple microscope with compass like focusing arm, adjustable arm for specimen and eyepiece reflector (Lieberkuhn)
compendium instrument
A selection of instruments incorporated into a single package to allow convient use together
compliment slip
A slip of paper that accompanies a goods order or information request. It typically provides the name, logo and address of the supplying business.
component - object
Constituent parts of objects or structures
compound microscope
Microscope with multiple optical elements (lenses/mirrors). It has two microscopes in series, the first serving as the ocular lens (close to the eye) and the second serving as the objective lens (close to the object to be viewed).
conception
The successful formation of a fertilised cell (zygote) by the union of the female ovum and the male sperm.
condenser
An apparatus for condensing vapour.
conjoined twins
Identical twins physically joined together at birth, formerly known as ‘Siamese’ twins. The location of the join can vary. Where possible, conjoined twins are often now separated through surgery.
conjunctivitis
Inflammation of the conjunctiva (outer coating of the eye), which becomes red and produces a watery discharge. It is caused by infection or physical or chemical irritation and is easily treated.
contact lens
Thin lenses of glass or plastic which fit over the cornea and correct vision defects.
contagion
A historic expression referring to the transmission of disease between people by means of direct contact.
container - medical waste
Any container designed for the collection and disposal of medical waste
container - receptacle
Receptacles or formed or flexible coverings designed to hold, store, or ship objects or substances.
contraception
The use of methods and techniques to prevent pregnancy from sex.
contraceptive implants and injections
Contraceptive implants and injections are long-acting methods of contraception. They both slowly release a synthetic hormone called progestogen. This mimics the actions of the natural hormone progesterone by preventing ovulation. The implants are thin silicone structures usually implanted under the skin of the upper arm.
contrast media
A contrast media is introduced into a patient's body to improve the detail of barely visible structures during an x-ray, e.g. the intestines.
controlled drug
Substances that are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (UK). These drugs are classified according to the amount of harm they cause when misused.
convulsion
The violent involuntary contractions of a group of muscles.