Home Page Flashcards Medical Terminology, Chapter 10, The Nervous System - Flashcards

Medical Terminology, Chapter 10, The Nervous System – Flashcards

Kevin Stewart

7 July 2022

question

ACE

answer

types of neurons: Afferent, Connecting, Efferent

question

acrophobia

answer

an excessive fear of being in high places

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afferent neurons (afferent means toward)

answer

sensory neurons; emerge from sensory organs and the skin to carry the impulses from the sensory organs toward the brain and spinal cord

question

agoraphobia

answer

an excessive fear of situations in which having a panic attack seems likely and/or dangerous or embarrassing

question

alcoholism

answer

chronic alcohol dependence with specific signs and symptoms upon withdrawal

question

Alzheimer's disease

answer

disorder associated with degenerative changes in the brain structure that lead to progressive memory loss, impaired cognition, and personality changes

question

amnesia

answer

a memory disturbance characterized by a total or partial inability to recall past experiences

question

amobarbital

answer

a barbiturate used as a sedative and hypnotic

question

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

answer

a degenerative disease in which patients become progressively weaker until they are completely paralyzed; also known as Lou Gehrig's disease

question

anesthesia

answer

the absence of normal sensation, especially sensitivity to pain, that is induced by the administration of an anesthetic

question

anesthesiologist

answer

a physician who specializes in administering anesthetic agents before and during surgery

question

anesthetic

answer

the medication used to induce anesthesia

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anesthetist

answer

a medical professional who specializes in administering anesthesia, but is not a physician

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anticonvulsant

answer

administered to prevent seizures such as those associated with epilepsy

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antidepressant

answer

a medication administered to prevent or relieve depression

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antipsychotic drug

answer

a medication administered to treat symptoms of severe disorders of thinking and mood that are associated with neurological and psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, mania, and delusional disorders

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anxiety disorders

answer

mental conditions characterized by anxiety or fear that is out of proportion to the real danger in a situation

question

anxiolytic drug

answer

a medication administered to temporarily relieve anxiety and to reduce tension; also known as an antianxiety drug or tranquilizer

question

aphasia

answer

the loss of the ability to speak, write, and/or comprehend the written or spoken word

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arachnoid membrane

answer

the second layer of the meninges and is located between the dura mater and the pia mater

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arachnophobia

answer

an excessive fear of spiders

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ascending nerve tracts

answer

carry nerve impulses toward the brain

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attention deficit disorder

answer

characterized by a short attention span and impulsive behavior that is inappropriate for the child's developmental age

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autism

answer

describes a group of conditions in which a young child cannot develop normal social relationships

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autonomic nervous sytem

answer

controls the involuntary actions of the body

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axon

answer

a process that extends away from the cell body and conducts impulses away from the nerve cell

question

barbiturates

answer

a class of drugs whose major action is a calming or depressed effect on the central nervous system

question

behavioral therapy

answer

focuses on changing behavior by identifying problem behaviors, replacing them with appropriate behaviors, and using rewards or other consequences to make the changes

question

Bell's palsy

answer

temporary paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve that causes drooping only on the affected side of the face

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bipolar disorder

answer

a condition characterized by cycles of severe mood changes shifting from highs (manic behavior) and severe lows (depression) that affect a person's attitude, energy, and ability to function

question

brain tumor

answer

an abnormal growth located inside the skull

question

brainstem

answer

the stalk-like portion of the brain that connects the cerebral hemispheres with the spinal cord; made up of three parts: the midbrain, pons, and medulla

question

carotid ultrasonography

answer

an ultrasound study of the carotid artery to detect plaque buildup in the artery to predict or diagnose an ischemic stroke

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catatonic behavior

answer

marked by a lack of responsiveness, stupor, and a tendency to remain in a fixed posture

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causalgia

answer

persistent, severe burning pain that usually follows an injury to a sensory nerve

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central nervous system (CNS)

answer

includes the brain and spinal cord

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cephalalgia

answer

pain in the head; also known as a headache

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cerebellum

answer

the second-largest part of the brain, located at the back of the head below the posterior portion of the cerebrum

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cerebral

answer

pertaining to the cerebrum or to the brain

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cerebral contusion

answer

the bruising of brain tissue as the result of a head injury that may also cause swelling of the brain

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cerebral hemispheres

answer

the cerebrum is divided into these two parts

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cerebral lobes

answer

each cerebral hemisphere is subdivided to create pairs of lobes; each lobe is named for the bone of the cranium that covers it

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cerebral palsy

answer

a congenital condition characterized by poor muscle control, spasticity, speech defects, and other neurologic deficiencies

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cerebrospinal fluid

answer

a clear, colorless, and watery fluid that flows throughout the brain and around the spinal cord

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cerebrovascular accident

answer

damage to the brain that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is disrupted; also known as a stroke

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cerebrum

answer

the largest and uppermost portion of the brain, consisting of four lobes

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cervical radiculopathy

answer

nerve pain caused by pressure on the spinal nerve roots in the neck region

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claustrophobia

answer

an abnormal fear of being in narrow or enclosed spaces

question

cluster headaches

answer

intensely painful headaches that affect one side of the head and may be associated with tearing of the eyes and nasal congestion

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cognition

answer

the mental activities associated with thinking, learning,and memory

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cognitive therapy

answer

focuses on changing cognitions or thoughts that are affecting a person's emotions or actions

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coma

answer

a deep state of unconsciousness

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complex regional pain syndrome

answer

pain that occurs after an injury to an arm or a leg, a heart attack, stroke, or other medical problem

question

concussion

answer

a violent shaking up or jarring of the brain that may result in a temporary loss of awareness and function

question

connecting neurons

answer

associative neurons which link sensory and motor neurons

question

conscious

answer

the state of being awake, alert, aware, and responding appropriately

question

conversion disorder

answer

characterized by serious temporary or ongoing changes in function, such as paralysis or blindness, that are triggered by psychological factors rather than by any physical cause

question

cranial hematoma

answer

a collection of blood trapped in the tissues of the brain

question

cranial nerves

answer

12 pairs of nerves that originate from the undersurface of the brain

question

delirium

answer

a potentially reversible condition that comes on suddenly and is often associated with high fever, intoxication, or shock in which the patient is confused, disoriented, and unable to think clearly

question

delirium tremens

answer

an acute organic brain syndrome due to alcohol withdrawal that is characterized by sweating, tremor, restlessness, anxiety, mental confusion, and hallucinations

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delusion

answer

a false personal belief that is maintained despite obvious proof or evidence to the contrary

question

dementia

answer

a slowly progressive decline in mental abilities, including memory, thinking, and judgment, that is often accompanied by personality changes

question

dendrites

answer

the root-like processes that receive impulses and conduct them to the cell body

question

depression

answer

a common mood disorder characterized by lethargy and sadness, as well as the loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities

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descending nerve tracts

answer

carry nerve impulses away from the brain

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dissociative disorders

answer

occur when normal thought is separated from consciousness

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dissociative identity disorder

answer

a mental illness characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personalities, each with its own characteristics, which appear to exist within the same individual; formerly known as multiple personality disorder

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dura mater

answer

the thick, tough, outermost membrane of the meninges

question

dyslexia

answer

a learning disability characterized by substandard reading achievement due to the inability of the brain to process symbols; also known as a developmental reading disorder

question

dysthymia

answer

a low-grade chronic depression with symptoms that are milder than those of severe depression but are present on a majority of days for 2 or more years

question

echoencephalography

answer

the use ofultrasound imaging to diagnose a shift in the midline structures of the brain

question

efferent neurons (efferent means away from)

answer

motor neurons which carry impulses away from the brain and spinal cord and toward the muscles and glands

question

electroencephalography

answer

the process of recording the electrical activity of the brain through the use of electrodes attached to the scalp

question

encephalitis

answer

an inflammation of the brain

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encephalocele

answer

a congenital herniation of brain tissue through a gap in the skull

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epidural anesthesia

answer

regional anesthesia produced by injecting a local anesthetic into the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral region of the spine

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epilepsy

answer

a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent episodes of seizures of varying severity

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factitious disorder

answer

a condition in which an individual acts as if he or she has a physical or mental illness when he or she is not really sick; previously known as Munchausen syndrome

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factitious disorder by proxy

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a form of child abuse; although seeming very concerned about the child's well-being, the mentally ill parent will falsify an illness in a child by making up, or inducing symptoms, and then seeking medical treatment, even surgery, for the child

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ganglion

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a nerve center made up of a cluster of nerve cell bodies outside the central nervous system

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generalized anxiety disorder

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characterized by chronic anxiety plus exaggerated worry and tension even when there is little or nothing to provoke these feelings

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glial cells

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provide support and protection for neurons

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Gullain-Barre syndrome

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an inflammation of the myelin sheath of peripheral nerves, characterized by rapidly worsening muscle weakness that may lead to temporary paralysis; also known as infectious polyneuritis

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hallucination

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a sensory perception experienced in the absence of an external stimulation

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hemorrhagic stroke

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occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures; also known as a bleed

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hydrocephalus

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a condition in which there is an abnormally increased amount of cerebrospinal fluid within the ventricles of the brain

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hyperesthesia

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a condition of excessive sensitivity to stimuli

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hypnotherapy

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the use of hypnosis to produce a relaxed state of focused attention in which the patient may be more willing to believe and act on suggestions

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hypnotic

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depresses the central nervous system and usually produces sleep

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hypochondriasis

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a condition characterized by misinterpretation of physical symptoms and fearing that one has a serious illness despite appropriate medical evaluation and reassurance

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hypothalamus

answer

located below the thalamus, controls vital bodily functions

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impulse-control disorders

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a group of psychiatric disorders characterized by the inability to resist an impulse despite potential negative consequences

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innervations

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the supply of nerves to a specific body part

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insomnia

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the prolonged or abnormal inability to sleep

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intracranial pressure

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the amount of pressure inside the skull

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ischemic stroke

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a type of stroke that occurs when the flow of blood to the brain is blocked

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kleptomania

answer

a disorder characterized by repeatedly stealing objects neither for personal use nor for their monetary value

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learning disabilities

answer

disorders found in children of normal intelligence who have difficulties in learning specific skills such as processing language or grasping mathematical concepts

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lethargy

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a lowered level of consciousness marked by listlessness, drowsiness, and apathy

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levels of consciousness (LOC)

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terms used to describe alterations of consciousness caused by injury, disease, or substances such as medication, drugs, or alcohol

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lobectomy

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surgical removal of a portion of the brain to treat brain cancer or seizure disorders that cannot be controlled with medication

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lumbar puncture

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the process of obtaining a sample of cerebrospinal fluid by inserting a needle into the subarachnoid space of the lumbar region to withdraw fluid

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lumbar radiculopathy

answer

nerve pain in the lower back caused by muscle spasms or by nerve root irritation from the compression of vertebral disks such as a herniated disk

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magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer tomography (CT)

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important neuroimaging tools because they facilitate the examination of the soft tissue structures of the brain and spinal cord

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malingering

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characterized by the intentional creation of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms

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manic behavior

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includes an abnormally elevated mood state, including inappropriate elation, increased irritability, severe insomnia, poor judgment, and inappropriate social behavior

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medulla

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located at the lowest part of the brainstem, connected to the spinal cord

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meninges

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the system of membranes that enclose the brain and spinal cord of the CNS

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meningitis

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an inflammation of the meninges of the brain or spinal cord

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meningocele

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the congenital herniation of the meninges that surround the brain or spinal cord through a defect in the skull or spinal column

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mental retardation

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a diagnosis based on three criteria: 1) significant below-average intellectual functioning; 2) significant deficits in adaptive functioning; and 3) onset during the developmental period of life, which is before age 18

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midbrain and pons

answer

provides conduction pathways to and from the higher and lower centers in the brain

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migraine headache

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a headache characterized by throbbing pain on one side of the head

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mood stabilizing drugs

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used to treat mood instability and bipolar disorders; an example is lithium

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multiple sclerosis

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a progressive autoimmune disorder characterized by scattered patches of demyelination of nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord

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myelin sheath

answer

the protective covering made up of glial cells

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myelitis

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an inflammation of the spinal cord; also inflammation of bone marrow

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myelography

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a radiographic study of the spinal cord after the injection of a contrast medium through a lumbar puncture. The resulting record is called a myelogram.

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myelosis

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a tumor of the spinal cord

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narcolepsy

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a sleep disorder consisting of recurring episodes of falling asleep during the day

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nerve

answer

one or more bundles of neurons that connect the brain and the spinal cord with other parts of the body

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neurologist

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a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the nervous system

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neurons

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the basic cells of the nervous system that allow different parts of the body to communicate with each other

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neuroplasty

answer

the surgical repair of a nerve or nerves

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neurorrhaphy

answer

surgically suturing together the ends of a severed nerve

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neurosurgeon

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a physician who specializes in surgery of the nervous system

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neurotomy

answer

a surgical incision or the dissection of a nerve

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neurotransmitters

answer

chemical substances that make it possible for messages to cross from the synapse of a neuron to the target receptor; examples include acetylcholine, dopamine, endorphins, norepinephrine, and serotonin

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obsessive-compulsive disorder

answer

an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts or impulses

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panic attack

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a group of intense emotional feelings that include apprehension, fearfulness, and terror

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panic disorder

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an anxiety disorder characterized by unexpected and repeated episodes known as panic attacks

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parasympathetic nervous system

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returns the body to normal after a response to stress

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paresthesia

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refers to a burning or prickling sensation that is usually felt in the hands, arms, legs, or feet, but can also occur in other parts of the body

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Parkinson's disease (PD)

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a chronic, degenerative central nervous disorder in which there is a progressive loss of control over movement, resulting in tremors and a shuffling gait

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peripheral nervous system (PNS)

answer

includes the 12 pairs of cranial nerves extending from the brain and the 31 pairs of peripheral spinal nerves extending outward from the spinal cord

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peripheral neuropathy

answer

a painful condition of the nerves of the hands and feet due to damage to the peripheral nerves; also known as peripheral neuritis

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peripheralspinal nerves

answer

31 pairs of spinal nerves that are grouped together and named based on the region of the body they innervate

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persistent vegetative state

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a type of coma in which the patient exhibits alternating sleep and wake cycles

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personality disorder

answer

a chronic pattern of inner experience and behavior that causes serious problems with relationships and work

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phenobarbital

answer

a barbiturate used as a sedative and as an anticonvulsant

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phobia

answer

a persistent irrational fear of a specific thing or situation, strong enough to cause significant distress, to interfere with functioning, and to lead to the avoidance of the thing or situation that causes this reaction

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pia mater

answer

the third layer of the meninges, located nearest to the brain and spinal cord

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plexus

answer

a network of intersecting spinal nerves

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poliomyelitis

answer

a highly contagious viral disease; also known as polio

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posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

answer

the development of characteristic symptoms after a major traumatic event

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psychiatrist

answer

a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating chemical dependencies, emotional problems, and mental illness

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psychoanalysis

answer

based on the idea that mental disorders have underlying causes stemming from childhood and can only be overcome by gaining insight into one's feelings and patterns of behavior

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psychologist

answer

holds an advanced degree but is not a medical doctor; evaluates and treats emotional problems and mental illness

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psychotic disorder

answer

characterized by the loss of contact with reality and deterioration of normal social functioning

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psychotropic drug

answer

acts primarily on the central nervous system, where it produces temporary changes affecting the mind, emotions, and behavior

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pyromania

answer

a disorder characterized by repeated, deliberate fire setting

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radiculitis

answer

an inflammation of the root of a spinal nerve that causes pain and numbness radiating down the affected limb; also known as a pinched nerve

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receptors

answer

sites in the sensory organs that receive external stimulation

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reflex

answer

an automatic, involuntary response to some change, either inside or outside the body

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restless legs syndrome (RLS)

answer

a neurological disorder characterized by uncomfortable feelings in the legs, producing a strong urge to move them

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Reye's syndrome (RS)

answer

a potentially fatal condition that has been linked to giving aspirin to children suffering from viral infections

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SAM

answer

neuron functions: Sensory neurons (afferent); Associative neurons (connecting); Motor neurons (efferent)

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schizophrenia

answer

a psychotic disorder characterized by two or more of the following: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized or catatonic behavior, and negative symptoms

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sciatica

answer

inflammation of the sciatic nerve

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seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

answer

a seasonal bout of depression associated with the decrease in hours of daylight during winter months

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sedative

answer

depresses the central nervous system to produce calm and diminished responsiveness without producing sleep

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seizure

answer

a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that affects how a person feels or acts for a short time

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shaken baby syndrome

answer

the results of a child being violently shaken by someone

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sleep deprivation

answer

a sufficient lack of restorative sleep over a cumulative period so as to cause physical or psychiatric symptoms and affect routine performance or tasks

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somatoform disorder

answer

characterized by physical complaints or concerns about one's body that are out of proportion to any physical findings or disease

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somnambulism

answer

the condition of walking or performing some other activity without awakening; also known as sleepwalking

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spinal cord

answer

a long, fragile tube-like structure that begins at the end of the brain stem and continues down almost to the bottom of the spinal column

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stimulant

answer

works by increasing activity in certain areas of the brain to increase concentration and wakefulness

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stimulus

answer

anything that excites (activates) a nerve and causes an impulse

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stupor

answer

an unresponsive state from which a person can be aroused only briefly and with vigorous, repeated attempts

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substance abuse

answer

the addictive use of tobacco, alcohol, medications, or illegal drugs

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sympathetic nervous system

answer

prepares the body for emergencies and stress by increasing the breathing rate, heart rate, and blood flow to muscles

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synapse

answer

the space between two neurons or between a neuron and a receptor organ

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syncope

answer

the brief loss of consciousness caused by the decreased flow of blood to the brain; also known as fainting

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terminal end fibers

answer

the branching fibers at the end of the axon that lead the nervous impulse from the axon to the synapse

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tetanus

answer

an acute and potentially fatal infection of the central nervous system caused by a toxin produced by the tetanus bacteria

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thalamotomy

answer

a surgical incision into the thalamus

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thalamus

answer

located below the cerebrum, produces sensations by relaying impulses to and from the cerebrum and the sense organs of the body

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tract

answer

a bundle or group of nerve fibers located within the brain or spinal cord

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transient ischemic attack (TIA)

answer

the temporary interruption in the blood supply to the brain

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traumatic brain injury

answer

a blow to the head or a penetrating head injury that damages the brain

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trichotillomania

answer

a disorder characterized by the repeated pulling out of one's own hair

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trigeminal neuralgia

answer

a condition characterized by sudden, intense, severe lightning-like pain due to an inflammation of the fifth cranial nerve

question

unconscious

answer

a state of being unaware and unable to respond to any stimuli including pain

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question

ACE

answer

types of neurons: Afferent, Connecting, Efferent

question

acrophobia

answer

an excessive fear of being in high places

question

afferent neurons (afferent means toward)

answer

sensory neurons; emerge from sensory organs and the skin to carry the impulses from the sensory organs toward the brain and spinal cord

question

agoraphobia

answer

an excessive fear of situations in which having a panic attack seems likely and/or dangerous or embarrassing

question

alcoholism

answer

chronic alcohol dependence with specific signs and symptoms upon withdrawal

question

Alzheimer's disease

answer

disorder associated with degenerative changes in the brain structure that lead to progressive memory loss, impaired cognition, and personality changes

question

amnesia

answer

a memory disturbance characterized by a total or partial inability to recall past experiences

question

amobarbital

answer

a barbiturate used as a sedative and hypnotic

question

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

answer

a degenerative disease in which patients become progressively weaker until they are completely paralyzed; also known as Lou Gehrig's disease

question

anesthesia

answer

the absence of normal sensation, especially sensitivity to pain, that is induced by the administration of an anesthetic

question

anesthesiologist

answer

a physician who specializes in administering anesthetic agents before and during surgery

question

anesthetic

answer

the medication used to induce anesthesia

question

anesthetist

answer

a medical professional who specializes in administering anesthesia, but is not a physician

question

anticonvulsant

answer

administered to prevent seizures such as those associated with epilepsy

question

antidepressant

answer

a medication administered to prevent or relieve depression

question

antipsychotic drug

answer

question

anxiety disorders

answer

mental conditions characterized by anxiety or fear that is out of proportion to the real danger in a situation

question

anxiolytic drug

answer

a medication administered to temporarily relieve anxiety and to reduce tension; also known as an antianxiety drug or tranquilizer

question

aphasia

answer

the loss of the ability to speak, write, and/or comprehend the written or spoken word

question

arachnoid membrane

answer

the second layer of the meninges and is located between the dura mater and the pia mater

question

arachnophobia

answer

an excessive fear of spiders

question

ascending nerve tracts

answer

carry nerve impulses toward the brain

question

attention deficit disorder

answer

characterized by a short attention span and impulsive behavior that is inappropriate for the child's developmental age

question

autism

answer

describes a group of conditions in which a young child cannot develop normal social relationships

question

autonomic nervous sytem

answer

controls the involuntary actions of the body

question

axon

answer

a process that extends away from the cell body and conducts impulses away from the nerve cell

question

barbiturates

answer

a class of drugs whose major action is a calming or depressed effect on the central nervous system

question

behavioral therapy

answer

focuses on changing behavior by identifying problem behaviors, replacing them with appropriate behaviors, and using rewards or other consequences to make the changes

question

Bell's palsy

answer

temporary paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve that causes drooping only on the affected side of the face

question

bipolar disorder

answer

a condition characterized by cycles of severe mood changes shifting from highs (manic behavior) and severe lows (depression) that affect a person's attitude, energy, and ability to function

question

brain tumor

answer

an abnormal growth located inside the skull

question

brainstem

answer

the stalk-like portion of the brain that connects the cerebral hemispheres with the spinal cord; made up of three parts: the midbrain, pons, and medulla

question

carotid ultrasonography

answer

an ultrasound study of the carotid artery to detect plaque buildup in the artery to predict or diagnose an ischemic stroke

question

catatonic behavior

answer

marked by a lack of responsiveness, stupor, and a tendency to remain in a fixed posture

question

causalgia

answer

persistent, severe burning pain that usually follows an injury to a sensory nerve

question

central nervous system (CNS)

answer

includes the brain and spinal cord

question

cephalalgia

answer

pain in the head; also known as a headache

question

cerebellum

answer

the second-largest part of the brain, located at the back of the head below the posterior portion of the cerebrum

question

cerebral

answer

pertaining to the cerebrum or to the brain

question

cerebral contusion

answer

the bruising of brain tissue as the result of a head injury that may also cause swelling of the brain

question

cerebral hemispheres

answer

the cerebrum is divided into these two parts

question

cerebral lobes

answer

each cerebral hemisphere is subdivided to create pairs of lobes; each lobe is named for the bone of the cranium that covers it

question

cerebral palsy

answer

a congenital condition characterized by poor muscle control, spasticity, speech defects, and other neurologic deficiencies

question

cerebrospinal fluid

answer

a clear, colorless, and watery fluid that flows throughout the brain and around the spinal cord

question

cerebrovascular accident

answer

damage to the brain that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is disrupted; also known as a stroke

question

cerebrum

answer

the largest and uppermost portion of the brain, consisting of four lobes

question

cervical radiculopathy

answer

nerve pain caused by pressure on the spinal nerve roots in the neck region

question

claustrophobia

answer

an abnormal fear of being in narrow or enclosed spaces

question

cluster headaches

answer

intensely painful headaches that affect one side of the head and may be associated with tearing of the eyes and nasal congestion

question

cognition

answer

the mental activities associated with thinking, learning,and memory

question

cognitive therapy

answer

focuses on changing cognitions or thoughts that are affecting a person's emotions or actions

question

coma

answer

a deep state of unconsciousness

question

complex regional pain syndrome

answer

pain that occurs after an injury to an arm or a leg, a heart attack, stroke, or other medical problem

question

concussion

answer

a violent shaking up or jarring of the brain that may result in a temporary loss of awareness and function

question

connecting neurons

answer

associative neurons which link sensory and motor neurons

question

conscious

answer

the state of being awake, alert, aware, and responding appropriately

question

conversion disorder

answer

characterized by serious temporary or ongoing changes in function, such as paralysis or blindness, that are triggered by psychological factors rather than by any physical cause

question

cranial hematoma

answer

a collection of blood trapped in the tissues of the brain

question

cranial nerves

answer

12 pairs of nerves that originate from the undersurface of the brain

question

delirium

answer

a potentially reversible condition that comes on suddenly and is often associated with high fever, intoxication, or shock in which the patient is confused, disoriented, and unable to think clearly

question

delirium tremens

answer

an acute organic brain syndrome due to alcohol withdrawal that is characterized by sweating, tremor, restlessness, anxiety, mental confusion, and hallucinations

question

delusion

answer

a false personal belief that is maintained despite obvious proof or evidence to the contrary

question

dementia

answer

a slowly progressive decline in mental abilities, including memory, thinking, and judgment, that is often accompanied by personality changes

question

dendrites

answer

the root-like processes that receive impulses and conduct them to the cell body

question

depression

answer

a common mood disorder characterized by lethargy and sadness, as well as the loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities

question

descending nerve tracts

answer

carry nerve impulses away from the brain

question

dissociative disorders

answer

occur when normal thought is separated from consciousness

question

dissociative identity disorder

answer

question

dura mater

answer

the thick, tough, outermost membrane of the meninges

question

dyslexia

answer

a learning disability characterized by substandard reading achievement due to the inability of the brain to process symbols; also known as a developmental reading disorder

question

dysthymia

answer

a low-grade chronic depression with symptoms that are milder than those of severe depression but are present on a majority of days for 2 or more years

question

echoencephalography

answer

the use ofultrasound imaging to diagnose a shift in the midline structures of the brain

question

efferent neurons (efferent means away from)

answer

motor neurons which carry impulses away from the brain and spinal cord and toward the muscles and glands

question

electroencephalography

answer

the process of recording the electrical activity of the brain through the use of electrodes attached to the scalp

question

encephalitis

answer

an inflammation of the brain

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encephalocele

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a congenital herniation of brain tissue through a gap in the skull

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epidural anesthesia

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regional anesthesia produced by injecting a local anesthetic into the epidural space of the lumbar or sacral region of the spine

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epilepsy

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a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent episodes of seizures of varying severity

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factitious disorder

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a condition in which an individual acts as if he or she has a physical or mental illness when he or she is not really sick; previously known as Munchausen syndrome

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factitious disorder by proxy

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ganglion

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a nerve center made up of a cluster of nerve cell bodies outside the central nervous system

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generalized anxiety disorder

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characterized by chronic anxiety plus exaggerated worry and tension even when there is little or nothing to provoke these feelings

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glial cells

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provide support and protection for neurons

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Gullain-Barre syndrome

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an inflammation of the myelin sheath of peripheral nerves, characterized by rapidly worsening muscle weakness that may lead to temporary paralysis; also known as infectious polyneuritis

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hallucination

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a sensory perception experienced in the absence of an external stimulation

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hemorrhagic stroke

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occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures; also known as a bleed

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hydrocephalus

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a condition in which there is an abnormally increased amount of cerebrospinal fluid within the ventricles of the brain

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hyperesthesia

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a condition of excessive sensitivity to stimuli

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hypnotherapy

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the use of hypnosis to produce a relaxed state of focused attention in which the patient may be more willing to believe and act on suggestions

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hypnotic

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depresses the central nervous system and usually produces sleep

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hypochondriasis

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a condition characterized by misinterpretation of physical symptoms and fearing that one has a serious illness despite appropriate medical evaluation and reassurance

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hypothalamus

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located below the thalamus, controls vital bodily functions

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impulse-control disorders

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a group of psychiatric disorders characterized by the inability to resist an impulse despite potential negative consequences

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innervations

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the supply of nerves to a specific body part

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insomnia

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the prolonged or abnormal inability to sleep

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intracranial pressure

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the amount of pressure inside the skull

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ischemic stroke

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a type of stroke that occurs when the flow of blood to the brain is blocked

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kleptomania

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a disorder characterized by repeatedly stealing objects neither for personal use nor for their monetary value

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learning disabilities

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disorders found in children of normal intelligence who have difficulties in learning specific skills such as processing language or grasping mathematical concepts

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lethargy

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a lowered level of consciousness marked by listlessness, drowsiness, and apathy

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levels of consciousness (LOC)

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terms used to describe alterations of consciousness caused by injury, disease, or substances such as medication, drugs, or alcohol

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lobectomy

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surgical removal of a portion of the brain to treat brain cancer or seizure disorders that cannot be controlled with medication

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lumbar puncture

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the process of obtaining a sample of cerebrospinal fluid by inserting a needle into the subarachnoid space of the lumbar region to withdraw fluid

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lumbar radiculopathy

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nerve pain in the lower back caused by muscle spasms or by nerve root irritation from the compression of vertebral disks such as a herniated disk

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magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer tomography (CT)

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important neuroimaging tools because they facilitate the examination of the soft tissue structures of the brain and spinal cord

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malingering

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characterized by the intentional creation of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms

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manic behavior

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includes an abnormally elevated mood state, including inappropriate elation, increased irritability, severe insomnia, poor judgment, and inappropriate social behavior

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medulla

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located at the lowest part of the brainstem, connected to the spinal cord

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meninges

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the system of membranes that enclose the brain and spinal cord of the CNS

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meningitis

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an inflammation of the meninges of the brain or spinal cord

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meningocele

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the congenital herniation of the meninges that surround the brain or spinal cord through a defect in the skull or spinal column

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mental retardation

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midbrain and pons

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provides conduction pathways to and from the higher and lower centers in the brain

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migraine headache

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a headache characterized by throbbing pain on one side of the head

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mood stabilizing drugs

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used to treat mood instability and bipolar disorders; an example is lithium

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multiple sclerosis

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a progressive autoimmune disorder characterized by scattered patches of demyelination of nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord

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myelin sheath

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the protective covering made up of glial cells

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myelitis

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an inflammation of the spinal cord; also inflammation of bone marrow

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myelography

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a radiographic study of the spinal cord after the injection of a contrast medium through a lumbar puncture. The resulting record is called a myelogram.

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myelosis

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a tumor of the spinal cord

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narcolepsy

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a sleep disorder consisting of recurring episodes of falling asleep during the day

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nerve

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one or more bundles of neurons that connect the brain and the spinal cord with other parts of the body

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neurologist

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a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the nervous system

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neurons

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the basic cells of the nervous system that allow different parts of the body to communicate with each other

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neuroplasty

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the surgical repair of a nerve or nerves

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neurorrhaphy

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surgically suturing together the ends of a severed nerve

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neurosurgeon

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a physician who specializes in surgery of the nervous system

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neurotomy

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a surgical incision or the dissection of a nerve

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neurotransmitters

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obsessive-compulsive disorder

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an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts or impulses

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panic attack

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a group of intense emotional feelings that include apprehension, fearfulness, and terror

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panic disorder

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an anxiety disorder characterized by unexpected and repeated episodes known as panic attacks

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parasympathetic nervous system

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returns the body to normal after a response to stress

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paresthesia

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refers to a burning or prickling sensation that is usually felt in the hands, arms, legs, or feet, but can also occur in other parts of the body

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Parkinson's disease (PD)

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a chronic, degenerative central nervous disorder in which there is a progressive loss of control over movement, resulting in tremors and a shuffling gait

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peripheral nervous system (PNS)

answer

includes the 12 pairs of cranial nerves extending from the brain and the 31 pairs of peripheral spinal nerves extending outward from the spinal cord

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peripheral neuropathy

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a painful condition of the nerves of the hands and feet due to damage to the peripheral nerves; also known as peripheral neuritis

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peripheralspinal nerves

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31 pairs of spinal nerves that are grouped together and named based on the region of the body they innervate

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persistent vegetative state

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a type of coma in which the patient exhibits alternating sleep and wake cycles

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personality disorder

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a chronic pattern of inner experience and behavior that causes serious problems with relationships and work

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phenobarbital

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a barbiturate used as a sedative and as an anticonvulsant

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phobia

answer

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pia mater

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the third layer of the meninges, located nearest to the brain and spinal cord

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plexus

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a network of intersecting spinal nerves

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poliomyelitis

answer

a highly contagious viral disease; also known as polio

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posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

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the development of characteristic symptoms after a major traumatic event

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psychiatrist

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a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating chemical dependencies, emotional problems, and mental illness

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psychoanalysis

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based on the idea that mental disorders have underlying causes stemming from childhood and can only be overcome by gaining insight into one's feelings and patterns of behavior

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psychologist

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holds an advanced degree but is not a medical doctor; evaluates and treats emotional problems and mental illness

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psychotic disorder

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characterized by the loss of contact with reality and deterioration of normal social functioning

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psychotropic drug

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acts primarily on the central nervous system, where it produces temporary changes affecting the mind, emotions, and behavior

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pyromania

answer

a disorder characterized by repeated, deliberate fire setting

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radiculitis

answer

an inflammation of the root of a spinal nerve that causes pain and numbness radiating down the affected limb; also known as a pinched nerve

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receptors

answer

sites in the sensory organs that receive external stimulation

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reflex

answer

an automatic, involuntary response to some change, either inside or outside the body

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restless legs syndrome (RLS)

answer

a neurological disorder characterized by uncomfortable feelings in the legs, producing a strong urge to move them

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Reye's syndrome (RS)

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a potentially fatal condition that has been linked to giving aspirin to children suffering from viral infections

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SAM

answer

neuron functions: Sensory neurons (afferent); Associative neurons (connecting); Motor neurons (efferent)

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schizophrenia

answer

a psychotic disorder characterized by two or more of the following: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized or catatonic behavior, and negative symptoms

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sciatica

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inflammation of the sciatic nerve

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seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

answer

a seasonal bout of depression associated with the decrease in hours of daylight during winter months

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sedative

answer

depresses the central nervous system to produce calm and diminished responsiveness without producing sleep

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seizure

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a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that affects how a person feels or acts for a short time

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shaken baby syndrome

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the results of a child being violently shaken by someone

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sleep deprivation

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a sufficient lack of restorative sleep over a cumulative period so as to cause physical or psychiatric symptoms and affect routine performance or tasks

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somatoform disorder

answer

characterized by physical complaints or concerns about one's body that are out of proportion to any physical findings or disease

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somnambulism

answer

the condition of walking or performing some other activity without awakening; also known as sleepwalking

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spinal cord

answer

a long, fragile tube-like structure that begins at the end of the brain stem and continues down almost to the bottom of the spinal column

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stimulant

answer

works by increasing activity in certain areas of the brain to increase concentration and wakefulness

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stimulus

answer

anything that excites (activates) a nerve and causes an impulse

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stupor

answer

an unresponsive state from which a person can be aroused only briefly and with vigorous, repeated attempts

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substance abuse

answer

the addictive use of tobacco, alcohol, medications, or illegal drugs

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sympathetic nervous system

answer

prepares the body for emergencies and stress by increasing the breathing rate, heart rate, and blood flow to muscles

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synapse

answer

the space between two neurons or between a neuron and a receptor organ

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syncope

answer

the brief loss of consciousness caused by the decreased flow of blood to the brain; also known as fainting

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terminal end fibers

answer

the branching fibers at the end of the axon that lead the nervous impulse from the axon to the synapse

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tetanus

answer

an acute and potentially fatal infection of the central nervous system caused by a toxin produced by the tetanus bacteria

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thalamotomy

answer

a surgical incision into the thalamus

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thalamus

answer

located below the cerebrum, produces sensations by relaying impulses to and from the cerebrum and the sense organs of the body

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tract

answer

a bundle or group of nerve fibers located within the brain or spinal cord

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transient ischemic attack (TIA)

answer

the temporary interruption in the blood supply to the brain

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traumatic brain injury

answer

a blow to the head or a penetrating head injury that damages the brain

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trichotillomania

answer

a disorder characterized by the repeated pulling out of one's own hair

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trigeminal neuralgia

answer

a condition characterized by sudden, intense, severe lightning-like pain due to an inflammation of the fifth cranial nerve

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unconscious

answer

a state of being unaware and unable to respond to any stimuli including pain

Medical Terminology, Chapter 10, The Nervous System – Flashcards

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