Po Health Dictionary

This illness is characterised by vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain, and results from eating food contaminated with metallic or chemical poisons, certain micro-organisms or microbial products. Alternatively, the foods – such as undercooked red kidney beans or ?sh of the scombroid family (mackerel and tuna) – may contain natural posions. Food poisoning caused by chemical or metallic substances usually occurs rapidly, within minutes or a few hours of eating. Among micro-organisms, bacteria are the leading cause of food poisoning, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens (formerly Cl. welchii), Salmonella spp., Campylobacter jejuni, and Escherichia coli O157.

Staphylococcal food poisoning occurs after food such as meat products, cold meats, milk, custard and egg products becomes contaminated before or after cooking, usually through incorrect handling by humans who carry S. aureus. The bacteria produce an ENTEROTOXIN which causes the symptoms of food poisoning 1–8 hours after ingestion. The toxin can withstand heat; thus, subsequent cooking of contaminated food will not prevent illness.

Heat-resistant strains of Cl. perfringens cause food poisoning associated with meat dishes, soups or gravy when dishes cooked in bulk are left unrefrigerated for long periods before consumption. The bacteria are anaerobes (see ANAEROBE) and form spores; the anaerobic conditions in these cooked foods allow the germinated spores to multiply rapidly during cooling, resulting in heavy contamination. Once ingested the bacteria produce enterotoxin in the intestine, causing symptoms within 8–24 hours.

Many di?erent types of Salmonella (about 2,000) cause food poisoning or ENTERITIS, from eight hours to three days after ingestion of food in which they have multiplied. S. brendeny, S. enteritidis, S. heidelberg, S. newport and S. thompson are among those commonly causing enteritis. Salmonella infections are common in domesticated animals such as cows, pigs and poultry whose meat and milk may be infected, although the animals may show no symptoms. Duck eggs may harbour Salmonella (usually S. typhimurium), arising from surface contamination with the bird’s faeces, and foods containing uncooked or lightly cooked hen’s eggs, such as mayonnaise, have been associated with enteritis. The incidence of human S. enteritidis infection has been increasing, by more than 15-fold in England and Wales annually, from around 1,100 a year in the early 1980s to more than 32,000 at the end of the 1990s, but has since fallen to about 10,000. A serious source of infection seems to be poultry meat and hen’s eggs.

Although Salmonella are mostly killed by heating at 60 °C for 15 minutes, contaminated food requires considerably longer cooking and, if frozen, must be completely thawed beforehand, to allow even cooking at a su?cient temperature.

Enteritis caused by Campylobacter jejuni is usually self-limiting, lasting 1–3 days. Since reporting of the disease began in 1977, in England and Wales its incidence has increased from around 1,400 cases initially to nearly 13,000 in 1982 and to over 42,000 in 2004. Outbreaks have been associated with unpasteurised milk: the main source seems to be infected poultry.

ESCHERICHIA COLI O157 was ?rst identi?ed as a cause of food poisoning in the early 1980s, but its incidence has increased sharply since, with more than 1,000 cases annually in the United Kingdom in the late 1990s. The illness can be severe, with bloody diarrhoea and life-threatening renal complications. The reservoir for this pathogen is thought to be cattle, and transmission results from consumption of raw or undercooked meat products and raw dairy products. Cross-infection of cooked meat by raw meat is a common cause of outbreaks of Escherichia coli O157 food poisoning. Water and other foods can be contaminated by manure from cattle, and person-to-person spread can occur, especially in children.

Food poisoning associated with fried or boiled rice is caused by Bacillus cereus, whose heat-resistant spores survive cooking. An enterotoxin is responsible for the symptoms, which occur 2–8 hours after ingestion and resolve after 8–24 hours.

Viruses are emerging as an increasing cause of some outbreaks of food poisoning from shell?sh (cockles, mussels and oysters).

The incidence of food poisoning in the UK rose from under 60,000 cases in 1991 to nearly 79,000 in 2004. Public health measures to control this rise include agricultural aspects of food production, implementing standards of hygiene in abattoirs, and regulating the environment and process of industrial food production, handling, transportation and storage.... food poisoning

An acute inflammation of the anterior horn cells of the spinal cord due to an enterovirus infection... poliomyelitis

The immature life-cycle form of a jellyfish (or other cnidarian) which is attached to a substrate. Tumour projecting from mucosal surface.... polyp

1 The administration of many drugs at the same time. 2 The administration of an excessive number of drugs.... polypharmacy

Excess urination. The excreted wastes may stay unchanged but they are dissolved in a far higher volume of water. The causes range from diabetes, kidney disease, elevated thyroid function and the aftermath of diuretic-treated heart failure to booting a half keg of generic beer at a frat blowout... polyuria

A soft mush prepared by various substances with oily or watery fluids... poultice

See SEPTICAEMIA.... blood-poisoning

See FUNGUS POISONING.... mushroom poisoning

The prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of medical and surgical conditions of the feet and lower limbs.... podiatry

A toxin which introduced to the body via the gastrointestinal tract or the respiratory tract.... poison

Lead and lead compounds are used in a variety of products including petrol additives (in the UK, lead-free petrol is now mandatory), piping (lead water pipes were once a common source of poisoning), weights, professional paints, dyes, ceramics, ammunition, homeopathic remedies, and ethnic cosmetic preparations. Lead compounds are toxic by ingestion, by inhalation and, rarely, by skin exposures. Metallic lead, if ingested, is absorbed if it remains in the gut. The absorption is greater in children, who may ingest lead from the paint on old cots

– although lead-containing paints are no longer used for items that children may be in contact with.

Acute poisonings are rare. Clinical features include metallic taste, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, ANOREXIA, fatigue, muscle weakness and SHOCK. Neurological effects may include headache, drowsiness, CONVULSIONS and COMA. Inhalation results in severe respiratory-tract irritation and systemic symptoms as above.

Chronic poisonings cause gastrointestinal disturbances and constipation. Other effects are ANAEMIA, weakness, pallor, anorexia, insomnia, renal HYPERTENSION and mental fatigue. There may be a bluish ‘lead line’ on the gums, although this is rarely seen. Neuromuscular dysfunction may result in motor weakness and paralysis of the extensor muscles of the wrist and ankles. ENCEPHALOPATHY and nephropathy are severe effects. Chronic low-level exposures in children are linked with reduced intelligence and behavioural and learning disorders.

Treatment Management of patients who have been poisoned is supportive, with removal from source, gastric decontamination if required, and X-RAYS to monitor the passage of metallic lead through the gut if ingested. It is essential to ensure adequate hydration and renal function. Concentrations of lead in the blood should be monitored; where these are found to be toxic, chelation therapy should be started. Several CHELATING AGENTS are now available, such as DMSA (Meso-2,3dimercaptosuccinic acid), sodium calcium edetate (see EDTA) and PENICILLAMINE. (See also POISONS.)... lead poisoning

Also known as periarteritis nodosa. A rare but potentially serious disease, probably caused by a disturbance of the immune system (see IMMUNITY). Prolonged fever and obscure symptoms referable to any system of the body are associated with local areas of in?ammation along the arteries, giving rise to nodules in their walls. Large doses of CORTICOSTEROIDS, coupled with IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT treatment, usually curtail the disorder. Recovery occurs in about 50 per cent of cases.... polyarteritis nodosa

Inflammation in several joints. Common features of a number of arboviral infections (e.g. Ross River virus and Barmah Forrest virus infections).... polyarthritis

Excessive thirst, which is a symptom of DIABETES MELLITUS and some other diseases.... polydipsia

A rise in the amount of HAEMOGLOBIN in the blood. This may be caused by an excess in the number of ERYTHROCYTES produced in the BONE MARROW or to a fall in the total volume of PLASMA in the circulatory system. It may also be a response to reduced oxygen levels – for example, among people living at high altitudes – or to liver or kidney disease: this type is called secondary polycythaemia.

The disorder may, however, occur for no obvious reason and is then called polycythaemia vera. This type develops mainly in people over 40 and about 400 people develop the disorder every year in the United Kingdom. The blood thickens, the sufferer may develop high blood pressure, ?ushing, headaches, itching and an enlarged spleen. A stroke may occur later in the disease process. Treatment of polycythaemia vera is by regular removal of blood by VENESECTION, sometimes in combination with an anticancer drug. Secondary polycythaemia is treated by remedying the underlying cause.

Polycythaemia rubra vera A disorder in which the red blood cells increase in number along with an increase in the number of white blood cells and platelets. The cause is unknown. Severe cases may require treatment with CYTOTOXIC drugs or RADIOTHERAPY.... polycythaemia

A form of rheumatism characterised by gross early-morning sti?ness, which tends to ease o? during the day, and pain in the shoulders and sometimes around the hips. It affects women more than men, and is rare under the age of 60. The cause is still obscure. It responds well to PREDNISOLONE, but treatment may need to be long continued. On the other hand the condition is not progressive and does not lead to disability.... polymyalgia rheumatica

A connective-tissue disease affecting the muscles throughout the body. This rare disorder, which is associated with DERMATOMYOSITIS, may be acute or chronic but it usually affects the muscles of the shoulders or hip areas. The muscles weaken and are tender to the touch. Di?use in?ammatory changes occur and symptomatic relief may be obtained with CORTICOSTEROIDS.... polymyositis

A molecule in which several AMINO ACIDS are joined together by peptide bonds. PROTEIN molecules are polypeptides.... polypeptide

See DERMATITIS.... pompholyx

Two species are used in medicine: Papaver somniferum, the white opium-poppy (see OPIUM), and Papaver rhoeas, the red corn-poppy. The corn-poppy is chie?y used as a colouring agent, its syrup being a brilliant crimson colour.... poppy

A small opening. The word is usually used to describe an opening in the skin that releases sweat or sebum, a waxy material secreted by the sebaceous glands in the SKIN.... pore

See NAEVUS.... port wine stain

Raised blood pressure in the PORTAL VEIN entering the LIVER. This results in increased pressure in the veins of the oesophagus and upper stomach and these grow in size to form varices – dilated tortuous veins. Sometimes these varices rupture, causing bleeding into the oesophagus. The raised pressure also causes ?uid to collect in the abdomen and form ASCITES. The commonest reason for portal hypertension is cirrhosis (?brosis) of the liver (see LIVER, DISEASES OF). THROMBOSIS in the portal vein may also be a cause. Treatment requires the cause to be tackled, but bleeding from ruptured vessels may be stopped by injecting a sclerosant or hardening solution into and around the veins. Sometimes a surgical shunt may be done to divert blood from the portal vein to another blood vessel.... portal hypertension

A metal which, on account of its great a?nity for other substances, is not found in a pure state in nature. Its salts are widely used in medicine but, as their action depends in general not on their metallic radical but upon the acid with which it is combined, their uses vary greatly and are described elsewhere. All salts of potassium depress the heart’s action as a result of action by the potassium ion.... potassium

A salt of the metallic element POTASSIUM. It is used as a skin antiseptic (see ANTISEPTICS) and for cleaning wounds; its astringent e?ect is useful in the treatment of DERMATITIS. It should not be taken internally because the compound is poisonous.... potassium permanganate

If an individual is unconscious – whether as a result of accident or illness or when in the postoperative recovery unit – but is breathing and has a pulse, he or she should be placed in the recovery position. The individual is turned on his or her side to allow the tongue to fall forwards and so reduce the likelihood of pharyngeal obstruction (see PHARYNX). Fluid in the mouth can also drain outwards instead of into the TRACHEA and LUNGS. The person can lie on either side with upper or lower leg ?exed. Sometimes the semi-prone position is used; this gives better drainage from the mouth and greater stability during transport, but makes it more di?cult to observe the face, colour or breathing. (See APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID.)... recovery position

A method for treating babies who suffer from alveolar collapse in the lung as a result of HYALINE MEMBRANE DISEASE (see also RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME).... continuous positive airways pressure

Cadmium poisoning is a recognised hazard in certain industrial processes, such as the manufacture of alloys, cadmium plating and glass blowing. Sewage sludge, which is used as fertiliser, may be contaminated by cadmium from industrial sources; such cadmium could be taken up into vegetable crops and cadmium levels in sewage are carefully monitored.

A tin-like metal, cadmium accumulates in the body. Long-term exposure can lead to EMPHYSEMA, renal failure (see KIDNEYS, DISEASES OF) and urinary-tract CALCULI. Acute exposure causes GASTROENTERITIS and PNEUMONITIS. Cadmium contamination of food is the most likely source of poisoning. The EU Directive on the Quality of Water for Human Consumption lays down 5 milligrams per litre as the upper safe level.... cadmium poisoning

A positive test result for a condition that is not, in fact, present.... false positive

Gram’s Method is a staining procedure that separates bacteria into those that stain (positive) and those that don’t (negative). Gram-positive bugs cause such lovely things as scarlet fever, tetanus, and anthrax, while some of the gram negs can give you cholera, plague, and the clap. This is significant to the microbiologist and the pathologist; otherwise I wouldn’t worry. Still, knowing the specifics (toss in anaerobes and aerobes as well), you can impress real medical professionals with your knowledge of the secret, arcane language of medicine.... gram-positive/negative

Around 2,000 mushrooms (toadstools) grow in England, of which 200 are edible and a dozen are classi?ed as poisonous. Not all the poisonous ones are dangerous. It is obviously better to prevent mushroom poisoning by ensuring correct identi?cation of those that are edible; books and charts are available. If in doubt, do not eat a fungus.

Severe poisoning from ingestion of fungi is very rare, since relatively few species are highly toxic and most species do not contain toxic compounds. The most toxic species are those containing amatoxins such as death cap (Amanita phalloides); this species alone is responsible for about 90 per cent of all mushroom-related deaths. There is a latent period of six hours or more between ingestion and the onset of clinical effects with these more toxic species. The small intestine, LIVER and KIDNEYS may be damaged – therefore, any patient with gastrointestinal effects thought to be due to ingestion of a mushroom should be referred immediately to hospital where GASTRIC LAVAGE and treatment with activated charcoal can be carried out, along with parenteral ?uids and haemodialysis if the victim is severely ill. In most cases where effects occur, these are early-onset gastrointestinal effects due to ingestion of mushrooms containing gastrointestinal irritants.

Muscarine is the poisonous constituent of some species. Within two hours of ingestion, the victim starts salivating and sweating, has visual disturbances, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vertigo, confusion, hallucinations and coma, the severity of symptoms depending on the amount eaten and type of mushroom. Most people recover in 24 hours, with treatment.

‘Magic’ mushrooms are a variety that contains psilocybin, a hallucinogenic substance. Children who take such mushrooms may develop a high fever and need medical care. In adults the symptoms usually disappear within six hours.

Treatment If possible, early gastric lavage should be carried out in all cases of suspected poisoning. Identi?cation of the mushroom species is a valuable guide to treatment. For muscarine poisoning, ATROPINE is a speci?c antidote. As stated above, hospital referral is advisable for people who have ingested poisonous fungi.... fungus poisoning

Another name for GOUT affecting the foot.... podagra

A resin derived from podophyllum plants, its active agent, podophyllotoxin, in alcoholic solution is used to treat genital WARTS. Paints, creams and impregnated plasters are used for calluses and warts elsewhere.... podophyllin

This is a term used to describe the variation seen in the shape of red blood cells in some disorders of the BONE MARROW.... poikilocytosis

A Latin term for thumb.... pollex

Also polychromatophilia; terms applied to an abnormal reaction of the red blood cells in severe ANAEMIA. They have a bluish tinge instead of the normal red colour in a blood ?lm stained by the usual method. It is a sign that the cell is not fully developed.... polychromasia

The presence of extra, or supernumerary, ?ngers or toes.... polydactyly

One of several GENES that between them control a single characteristic in an individual. With each polygene exerting a slight e?ect, the genetic outcome is the consequence of ‘group action’. The hereditary characteristics produced in this way are usually those of a quantitative type – for instance, an individual’s height.... polygene

Characterised by scanty (or absent) MENSTRUATION, INFERTILITY, hirsutism (excessive hairiness) and OBESITY and the sufferers often have multiple cysts in their OVARIES.

The condition is caused by an imbalance between LUTEINISING HORMONE (LH) and FOLLICLE-STIMULATING HORMONE (FSH); this imbalance stops OVULATION and varies the TESTOSTERONE output of the ovaries. The treatment may be with CLOMIPHENE; with a PROGESTOGEN drug; with LUTEINISING HORMONE-RELEASING HORMONE (LHRH); or with oral contraceptives (see under CONTRACEPTION – Non-barrier methods). The treatment chosen depends on the severity of the disease and whether the woman wants to conceive. Rarely a section of ovarian tissue is surgically removed.... polycystic ovary syndrome

(Diminutive of polymorphonuclear leucocyte.) A name applied to certain white corpuscles of the blood which have a nucleus of irregular and varied shape. These form between 70 and 75 per cent of all the white corpuscles. (See BLOOD.)... polymorph

Wide varieties of form of a species.... polymorphism

An in?ammatory condition of nerves in various parts of the body. (See NEURITIS.)... polyneuritis

The presence of a crop, or large number, of polypi (see POLYPUS). The most important form of polyposis is that known as familial polyposis coli. This is a hereditary disease characterised by the presence of large numbers of polypoid tumours in the large bowel. Every child born to an affected parent stands a ?fty-?fty chance of developing the disease. Its importance is that sooner or later one or more of these tumours undergoes cancerous change. If the affected gut is removed surgically before this occurs, and preferably before the age of 20, the results are excellent.... polyposis

or polyp (plural: polypi). A general name applied to tumours which are attached by a stalk to the surface from which they spring. The term refers only to the shape of the growth and has nothing to do with its structure or nature. Most polypi are of a simple nature, although malignant polypi are also found. The usual structure of a polypus is that of a ?ne ?brous core covered with epithelium resembling that of the surrounding surface. The sites in which polypi are most usually found are the interior of the nose, the outer meatus of the ear, and the interior of the womb, bladder, or bowels (see POLYPOSIS).

Their removal is generally easy, as they are simply twisted o?, or cut o?, by some form of snare or ligature. (The tissue removed should be checked for malignant cells.) Those which are situated in the interior of the bladder or bowels, and whose presence is usually recognised because blood appears in the urine or stools, require a more serious operation – usually an endoscopic examination (see ENDOSCOPE).... polypus

A CARBOHYDRATE comprising several monosaccharides linked in long chains. Polysaccharides store energy – as starch in plants and glycogen in animals – and they also form the structural parts of plants (as cellulose) and animals (as mucopolysaccharides).... polysaccharide

Punica granatum

Punicaceae

San: Dadimah;

Hin: Anar, Dhalim;

Ben: Dalim;

Tam: Madalai, Madalam;

Mal: Urumampazham, Matalam, Talimatala m, Matalanarakam; Kan :Dalimbe;

Tel: Dadima; Mar: Dalimba;

Guj: Dadam; Ass: Dalin

Importance: Pomegranate has long been esteemed as food and medicine and as a diet in convalescence after diarrhoea. The rind of the fruit is highly effective in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, dyspepsia, colitis, piles and uterine disorders. The powdered drug boiled with buttermilk is an efficacious reme dy for infantile diarrohoea. The root and stem bark are good for tapeworm and for strengthening the gums. The flowers are useful in vomiting, vitiated conditions of pitta, ophthalmodynia, ulcers, pharyngodynia and hydrocele. An extract of the flowers is very specific for epistaxis. The fruits are useful in anaemia, hyperdipsia, pharyngodynia, ophthalmodynia, pectoral diseases, splenopathy, bronchitis and otalgia. The fruit rind is good for dysentery, diarrhoea and gastralgia. Seeds are good for scabies, hepatopathy and splenopathy. The important preparations using the drug are Dadimadighrtam, Dadimastaka churnam, Hinguvacadi churnam, Hingvadi gulika, etc (Sivarajan et al, 1994, Warrier et al, 1995).

Distribution: Pomegranate is a native of Iran, Afghanistan and Baluchistan. It is found growing wild in the warm valleys and outer hills of the Himalaya between 900m and 1800m altitude. It is cultivated throughout India, the largest area being in Maharastra.

Botany: Punica granatum Linn. belongs to the family Punicaceace. It is a large deciduous shrub up to 10m in height with smooth dark grey bark and often spinescent branchlets. Leaves are opposite, glabrous, minutely pellucid-punctuate, shining above and bright green beneath. Flowers are scarlet red or sometime yellow, mostly solitary, sometimes 2-4 held together. Stamens are numerous and inserted on the calyx below the petals at various levels. Fruits are globose, crowned by the persistent calyx. Rind is coriaceous and woody, interior septate with membraneous walls containing numerous seeds. Seeds are angular with red, pink or whitish, fleshy testa (Warrier et al, 1995).

Agrotechnology: Pomegranate is of deciduous nature in areas where winters are cold, but on the plains it is evergreen. A hot dry summer aids in the production of best fruits. Plants are grown from seeds as well as cuttings. Mature wood pieces cut into lengths of about 30cm are planted for rooting. The rooted plants are planted 4.5-6m apart. When planted close, they form a hedge which also yields fruits. Normal cultivation and irrigation practices are satisfactory for the pomegranate. An application of 30-45kg of FYM annually to each tree helps to produce superior quality fruits. The pomegranate may be trained as a tree with a single stem for 30-45cm or as a bush with 3 or 4 main stems. In either case suckers arising from the roots and similar growths from the trunk and main branches are removed once a year. Shortening of long slender branches and occasional thinning of branches should be done. The fruit has a tough rind and hence transportation loss is minimum (ICAR, 1966).

Properties and activity: Pomegranate fruit rind gives an ellagitannin named granatin B, punicalagin, punicalin and ellagic acid. Bark contains the alkaloids such as iso-pelletierine, pseudopelletierine, methyl isopelletierine, methyl pelletierine, pelletierine as well as iso-quercetin, friedelin, D- mannitol and estrone. Flowers give pelargonidin-3, 5-diglucoside apart from sitosterol, ursolic acid, maslinic acid, asiatic acid, sitosterol- -D-glucoside and gallic acid. Seeds give malvidin pentose glycoside. Rind gives pentose glycosides of malvidin and pentunidin. Fluoride, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C and phosphate are also reported from fruits. Leaves give elligatannins-granatins A and B and punicafolin.

Rind of fruit is astringent, fruit is laxative. Bark of stem and root is anthelmintic, and febrifuge. Rind of fruit and bark of stem and root is antidiarrhoeal. Pericarp possesses antifertility effect. Fixed oil from seeds are antibacterial. Bark, fruit pulp, flower and leaf are antifungal. Aerial part is CNS depressant, diuretic and hypothermic. The flower buds of pomegranate in combination with other plants showed excellent response to the patients of Giardiasis (Mayer et al, 1977; Singhal et al, 1983).... pomegranate

A vein or collection of veins which ?nish at both ends in a bed of capillary blood vessels. An important example is the hepatic portal system, comprising the portal vein and its tributaries. Blood from the stomach, pancreas, spleen and intestines drains into the veins that join up to comprise the portal vein into the liver, where it branches into sinusoids.... portal system

The vein which carries to the LIVER, blood that has been circulating in many of the abdominal organs. It is peculiar among the veins of the body in that it ends by breaking up into a capillary network instead of carrying the blood directly to the heart – a peculiarity which it shares only with certain small vessels in the kidneys. The PORTAL SYSTEM begins below in the haemorrhoidal plexus of veins around the lower end of the rectum; from this point, along the whole length of the intestines, the blood is collected into an inferior mesenteric vein upon the left, and a superior mesenteric vein upon the right side. The inferior mesenteric vein empties into the splenic vein, and the latter, uniting with the superior mesenteric vein immediately above the pancreas, forms the portal vein. The portal vein is joined by veins from the stomach and gallbladder, and ?nally divides into two branches which sink into the right and left lobes of the liver. (For their further course, see LIVER).

The organs from which the portal vein collects the blood are the large and small intestines, the stomach, spleen, pancreas, and gall-bladder.... portal vein

A pre?x signifying after or behind.... post

See MYALGIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS (ME).... post-viral fatigue syndrome

After birthing.... postpartum

Facilitation of the drainage of secretions from dilated bronchi of the LUNGS. The patient lies on an inclined plane, head downwards, and is encouraged to cough up as much secretion from the lungs as possible. The precise position depends on which part of the lungs is affected. It may need to be carried out for up to three hours daily in divided periods. It is of particular value in BRONCHIECTASIS and lung abscess (see LUNGS, DISEASES OF).... postural drainage

(American) A lighthearted woman Powdar, Powdir, Powdur, Powdor, Powdi, Powdie, Powdy, Powdey, Powdee, Powdea... powder

See “durable power of attorney”.... power of attorney

A population in which the age and sex composition is known precisely, as a result of a census. A standard population is used as a comparison group in the procedure for standardizing mortality rates.... standard population

The group of persons for whom an intervention is planned. For example, the targeting of services to particular user groups.... targeting / target population / target group

Position in which a patient lies on his or her back with the hips and knees bent and the legs wide apart.

Once used for lithotomy, the position is still used for pelvic examinations and some types of pelvic surgery.... lithotomy position

See oesophageal diverticulum.... pharyngeal pouch

A prefix meaning many or much.... poly-

The toxic effect of mercury has been known since days of the medieval alchemists. Charles II presented all the symptoms we now recognise as mercurial poisoning, presumably the result of medication received over many years. Its symptoms simulate multiple sclerosis, when chronic. They are: constant fatigue, pins and needles in the limbs, resting tremor, nausea, dizziness, ataxia, pains in the bones and joints, drooling (excessive salivation), blue line along the gums. In children they may include all kinds of vague aches and pains, chorea, hyperthyroidism and facial neuralgia. Weakness, walking difficulties, metallic taste in the mouth, thirst, mental deterioration. It is now known to cause a number of serious nerve dystrophies.

Mercury has an affinity for the central nervous system. Soon it concentrates in the kidney causing tubular damage. A common cause is the mercurial content (50 per cent) in the amalgam fillings in teeth which, under certain conditions, release a vapour. Fortunately, its use in dentistry is being superceded by an alternative composite filling.

A common cause of poisoning was demonstrated in 1972 when 6,000 people became seriously ill (600 died) from eating bread made from grain treated with a fungicide containing methylmercury. For every fungus in grain there is a mercuric compound to destroy it. The seed of all cereal grain is thus treated to protect its power of germination.

Those who are hypersensitive to the metal should as far as possible avoid button cells used in tape recorders, cassette players, watch and camera mechanisms. As the mercury cells corrode, the metal enters the environment and an unknown fraction is converted by micro organisms to alkylmercury compounds which seep into ground waters and eventually are borne to the sea. When cells are incinerated, the mercury volatilises and enters the atmosphere. (Pharmaceutical Journal, July 28/1984)

Mercury poisoning from inhalation of mercury fumes goes directly to the brain and pituitary gland. Autopsies carried out on dentists reveal high concentrations of mercury in the pituitary gland. (The Lancet, 5-27-89,1207 (letter))

Treatment. For years the common antidote was sulphur, and maybe not without reason. When brought into contact sulphur and mercury form an insoluble compound enabling the mercury to be more easily eliminated from the body. Sulphur can be provided by eggs or Garlic.

Old-time backwoods physicians of the North American Medical School used Asafoetida, Guaiacum and Echinacea. German pharmacists once used Bugleweed and Yellow Dock. Dr J. Clarke, USA physician recommends Sarsaparilla to facilitate breakdown and expulsion from the body.

Reconstructed formula. Echinacea 2; Sarsaparilla 1; Guaiacum quarter; Asafoetida quarter; Liquorice quarter. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Chelation therapy.

Formula. Tinctures. Skullcap 2-15 drops; Pleurisy root 20-45 drops; Horehound 5-40 drops. Mercurial salivation. Thrice daily. (Indian Herbology of North America, by Alma Hutchens) Dental fillings: replace amalgam with safe alternative – ceramic, etc. Evidence of a link between tooth fillings containing mercury and ME has caused the use of dental amalgam to be banned in Sweden. ... mercury poisoning

See ovary, polycystic.... polycystic ovary

(PCR) A method of rapidly copying DNA sequences so that they can be analysed.... polymerase chain reaction

The middle part of the brainstem.... pons

See

PET scanning.... positron emission tomography

See contraception, emergency.... postcoital contraception

Relating to the back of the body, or referring to the rear part.... posterior

Excess amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus during pregnancy. It occurs in about 1 in 250 pregnancies and often has no known cause. The condition sometimes occurs if the fetus has a malformation that makes normal swallowing impossible, or if the pregnant woman has diabetes mellitus. The excess amniotic fluid usually accumulates in the 2nd half of pregnancy, producing symptoms from about week 32. The main symptom is abdominal discomfort. Other possible symptoms are breathlessness and swelling of the legs. The uterus is larger than would usually be expected. Occasionally, fluid accumulates rapidly, causing abdominal pain, breathlessness, nausea, and vomiting, and leg swelling. Premature labour may result.

The condition is usually evident from a physical examination, but ultrasound scanning may be needed.

In mild cases, only rest is needed.

In more severe cases, amniotic fluid may be withdrawn using a needle.

In late pregnancy, induction of labour may be performed.... polyhydramnios

Any of a group of uncommon and usually inherited disorders caused by the accumulation of substances called porphyrins. Sufferers often have a rash or blistering brought on by sunlight, and certain drugs may cause abdominal pain and nervous system disturbances. Porphyrins are formed in the body during the manufacture of haem (a component of haemoglobin). A block in this manufacture causes a build-up of porphyrins. Such blocks are the result of various enzyme deficiencies, which are genetic disorders. Porphyria may also be due to poisoning.

There are 6 types of porphyria. Acute intermittent porphyria usually appears in early adulthood, causing abdominal pain, and often limb cramps, muscle weakness, and psychiatric disturbances. The patient’s urine turns red when left to stand. Barbiturate drugs, phenytoin, oral contraceptives, and tetracyclines precipitate attacks.

Variegate porphyria has similar effects but also causes blistering of sun-exposedskin. Hereditary coproporphyria also has similar effects and may cause additional skin symptoms.

Protoporphyria usually causes skin symptoms after exposure to sunlight, as does porphyria cutanea tarda. In this type, wounds are slow to heal, and urine is sometimes pink or brown. Many cases are precipitated by liver disease.

The rarest and most serious form, congenital erythropoietic porphyria, causes red discoloration of urine and the teeth, excessive hair growth, severe skin blistering and ulceration, and haemolytic anaemia. Death may occur in childhood. Diagnosis is made from abnormal levels of porphyrins in the urine and faeces. Treatment is difficult. Avoiding sunlight and/or precipitating drugs is the most important measure. Acute intermittent porphyria, variegate porphyria, and hereditary coproporphyria may be helped by administration of glucose or haematin. Cases of porphyria cutanea tarda may be helped by venesection.... porphyria

Excessive blood loss after childbirth. It is more common after a long labour or after a multiple birth. The haemorrhage is usually due to excessive bleeding from the site where the placenta was attached to the uterus.... postpartum haemorrhage

A form of anxiety that develops after a stressful or frightening event.

Common causes include natural disasters, violence, rape, torture, serious physical injury, and military combat.

Symptoms, which may develop many months after the event, include recurring memories or dreams of the event, a sense of personal isolation, and disturbed sleep and concentration.

There may be a deadening of feelings, or irritability and feelings of guilt, sometimes building up to depression.

Most people recover, in time, with emotional support and counselling.... post-traumatic stress disorder

See hypotension.... postural hypotension

Depression in a woman after childbirth. The cause is probably a combination of sudden hormonal changes and psychological and environmental factors. The depression ranges from an extremely common and mild, shortlived episode (“baby blues”) to a rare, severe depressive psychosis.

Most mothers first get the “blues” 4–5 days after childbirth and may feel miserable, irritable, and tearful. The cause is hormonal changes, perhaps coupled with a sense of anticlimax or an overwhelming sense of responsibility for the baby. With reassurance and support, the depression usually passes in 2–3 days. In about 10–15 per cent of women, the depression lasts for weeks and causes a constant feeling of tiredness, difficulty in sleeping, loss of appetite, and restlessness. The condition usually clears up of its own accord or is treated with antidepressant drugs.

Depressive psychosis usually starts 2–3 weeks after childbirth, causing severe mental confusion, feelings of worthlessness, threats of suicide or harm to the baby, and sometimes delusions.

Hospital admission, ideally with the baby, and antidepressant drugs are often needed.... postnatal depression

See “population ageing”.... ageing of the population

Linn.

Synonym: A. ameloprasum Hook. f. non Linn.

Family: Liliaceae, Alliaceae.

Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean region; cultivated in India.

English: Leek.

Folk: Vilaayati Piyaaz. Praan (Kashmir). Seemevangayam (Tamil Nadu).

Action: Expectorant; used as a substitute for garlic.

Leek is poor in volatile oil content in comparison with garlic, but it contains sufficient amounts of non-toxic sapo- nins, which perhaps give it expectorant properties.

The bulbs contain several thiosul- phinates, and also potentially anticar- cinogenic flavonoids, quercetin and kaempferol.... allium porrum

(Wall.) Parker.

Synonym: Amoora rohituka W. and A.

Family: Meliaceae.

Habitat: The sub-Himalayas tracts, Sikkim, Assam, Bengal, western Ghats and the Andamans.

Ayurvedic: Rohitaka, Daadima- chhada, Daadima-pushpaka, Plihaghna. Tecoma undulata G. Don., Bignoniaceae, is also equated with Rohitaka.

Siddha/Tamil: Malampuluvan.

Action: Bark—strongly astringent, used in the diseases of the liver and spleen, and for tumours, enlarged glands. Seed oil—used in muscular pains and rheumatism. All parts of the plant exhibit pesticidal activity. Seed extract—antibacterial, antifungal.

An aqueous extract of the bark, when injected i.p. in normal guinea pigs, showed reduction in absolute lymphocyte count and an increase in spleen weight. The bark appears to be an effective immunosuppressive drug similar to prednisolone.

The stembark contains a limonoid, ammorinin and a saponin, poriferas- terol-3-rhamnoside.... aphanamixis polystachya

ASPIRIN is a commonly available analgesic (see ANALGESICS) which is frequently taken in overdose. Clinical features of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, TINNITUS, ?ushing, sweating, HYPERVENTILATION, DEHYDRATION, deafness and acid-base and electrolyte disturbances (see ELECTROLYTES). In more severe cases individuals may be confused, drowsy and comatose. Rarely, renal failure (see KIDNEYS, DISEASES OF), PULMONARY OEDEMA or cardiovascular collapse occur. Severe toxicity may be delayed, as absorption of the drug may be prolonged due to the formation of drug concretions in the stomach. Treatment involves the repeated administration of activated CHARCOAL, monitoring of concentration of aspirin in the blood, and correction of acid-base and electrolyte imbalances. In more severely poisoned patients, enhanced excretion of the drug may be necessary by alkalinising the urine (by intravenous administration of sodium bicarbonate – see under SODIUM) or HAEMODIALYSIS.... aspirin poisoning

See ATROPINE; BELLADONNA POISONING.... atropine poisoning

Atropa belladonna (deadly nightshade) is a relatively rare plant and severe poisoning is not common. The berries, which are black, ripen from August to October and are the most commonly ingested part of the plant. However, all parts of the plant are toxic. The berries contain ATROPINE and other unidenti?ed ALKALOIDS, the leaves HYOSCINE and atropine, and the roots hyoscine. All these alkaloids have an ANTICHOLINERGIC e?ect which may cause a dry mouth, dilated pupils with blurred vision, TACHYCARDIA, HALLUCINATIONS and PYREXIA. There may also be ATAXIA, agitation, disorientation and confusion. In severe cases there may be CONVULSIONS, COMA, respiratory depression and ARRHYTHMIA. Clinical effects may be delayed in onset for up to 12 hours, and prolonged for several days. Treatment is supportive.... belladonna poisoning

A pool of warm water in which a woman can give birth to her baby. The infant is delivered into the water. The method was introduced during the 1980s and is claimed to make delivery less painful and upsetting.... birth pool

The opening through which the cirrus is protruded.... cirrus pore

A hollow organ surrounding the inverted cirrus.... cirrus pouch

See RECOVERY POSITION and APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID.... coma position

Measures that can be initiated among those with a disease, usually a chronic disease, to lessen or delay the impact of disability from that disease, e.g. averting renal complications among those with diabetes.... disability postponement

A written legal document in which a person appoints another individual to act as his/her agent for the purposes of health care decision-making in the event that he/she is unable or unwilling to make such decisions. See also “advance directive”.... durable power of attorney (enduring power of attorney)

See “durable power of attorney”.... enduring power of attorney

Disease common in Australia and caused by the Ross River Virus, an arbovirus transmitted by mosquitoes.... epidemic polyarthritis

The pomegranate tea is a refreshing, fruity tea whose main ingredient is the pomegranate. The fruit itself is refreshing, sweet and a bit bitter. Not only doespomegranate tea taste lovely, but it is also good for your health! About the Pomegranate Tea The pomegranate tea is a delicious beverage, sweet and fruity-flavored. The main ingredient is, of course, the pomegranate. Pomegranate trees are cultivated all over Asia, as well as in California, Arizona, tropical Africa, and in the Mediterranean region of Southern Europe. In the Northern Hemisphere, they are harvested from September to February, and in the Southern Hemisphere, from March to May. As a fruit, the pomegranate has vitamin C, vitamin B5, potassium, natural phenols, and polyphenols. Also, the edible seeds contain fiber. How to prepare Pomegranate Tea It isn’t difficult to prepare pomegranate tea. First, boil 6-8 ounce of water. Pour the hot water in the cups which contain either tea leaves or teabags. Let it steep for about 10 minutes before you remove the tea leaves or the teabag. For a calming effect, you can try to combine the pomegranate tea with chamomile tea. You can also mix it with black or green teas, based on your taste. Pomegranate Ice Tea If you miss the taste of pomegranate tea, but you don’t feel like drinking it during summer, you can try pomegranate ice tea. It shouldn’t take you more than 10 minutes to prepare it. For 5 serves, you need the following ingredients: 5 cups of boiling water, 5 teabags (of a non-fruity kind of tea), 2 cups of pomegranate juice, and sugar. First, boil the water. Pour it into a heat-resistant pitcher, add the teabags and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Next, remove the teabags and let the temperature cool. Add the pomegranate juice and the sugar, stir well and then put it in the refrigerator. Later, serve it with ice. For a richer flavor, you can add lemon, lime or mint leaves.  Or experiment a little and add anything else you like and think it might make it taste better. Benefits of Pomegranate Tea Pomegranate as a fruit, consumed in all its forms, contains lots of health benefits. The pomegranate tea is no exception. Pomegranate tea is rich in antioxidants. They are helpful when it comes to fighting against aging. They also strengthen the immune system, and lower the risk of getting cancer and diabetes. Pomegranate tea can also help reduce blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels. The chances of getting cardiovascular diseases become lower if you drink pomegranate tea. Pomegranates also have anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking pomegranate tea can slow down joint conditions (osteoarthritis), as well as reduce the pain caused by joint conditions and diseases. It will also help you protect your body’s cartilage. Also, pomegranate tea can help with strengthening your immunity, reducing LDL (bad cholesterol), and treating depression and preserving a good mental balance. Side effects of Pomegranate Tea There aren’t really any bad side effects related to pomegranate as a fruit, as well as pomegranate tea. Although rare, there are cases of allergies to pomegranate. Also, pomegranate juice and, based on how much you drink, possibly pomegranate tea as well, may neutralize the positive effects of some medications; it’s best to check with your doctor. Other side effects are related to drinking too much pomegranate tea; this applies to all types of tea, as well. It is advised that you not drink more than 6 cups of tea a day. Otherwise, you might get the following symptoms: headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. In this case, you need to try and drink less. Whether hot during winter, or cold during summer, pomegranate tea is a great choice for a fruity, refreshing beverage.  It also brings many health benefits with it. Give it a try and you’ll surely enjoy it!... benefits of the pomegranate tea

Ergot poisoning, or ergotism, occasionally results from eating bread made from rye infected with the fungus, Claviceps purpurea. Several terrible epidemics (St Anthony’s Fire), characterised by intense pain and hallucinations, occurred in France and Germany during the Middle Ages (see ERYSIPELAS). Its symptoms are the occurrence of spasmodic muscular contractions, and the gradual production of gangrene in parts like the ?ngers, toes and tips of the ears because of constriction of blood vessels and therefore the blood supply.... ergot poisoning

An opening of the excretory system, normally situated on the ventral side at the anterior part of the body (e.g. in trematode miracidia).... excretory pore

A formal statement or procedure within an institution (notably government) which defines goals, priorities and the parameters for action in response to health needs, within the context of available resources.... health policy

California Poppy tea is a natural remedy against insomnia. It is largely used for its healing properties against anxiety, too. California Poppy Tea description California poppy is an annual or perennial plant, originating from the Pacific coast. Its orange-yellow flowers flourish during spring and midsummer. North Americans used to consume this plant for stress-caused illnesses. Landscape artists appreciate California poppy plant for its beauty. California Poppy tea is the beverage resulting from brewing the abovementioned plant. California Poppy Tea brewing To prepare California Poppy tea, place the flowers, stems and leaves in boiling water for about 10 minutes. California Poppy Tea benefits California Poppy tea has been successfully used to:

• fight insomnia by ushering in restful sleep
• fight anxiety
• fight headaches
• fight toothaches and stomachaches
• fight skin sores and ulcers

California Poppy Tea side effects Pregnant women and children should not consume California Poppy tea. California Poppy tea is a healthy beverage able to deal with a large array of diseases such as stomachaches and ulcers and it also proved to be helpful for skin sores.... california poppy tea against insomnia

Cascara Sagrada Tea has been known since ancient times as a great stimulant and laxative agent. In fact, the ones to discover its medical benefits were the American. The first proofs of this fact date from the 17th century, when American practitioners used Cascara Sagrada bark to treat many bacterial ailments of the digestive system. Cascara is a small shrub that grows mainly in the North America, in states like Idaho, California or Montana. Cascara never grows taller than 50 centimeters and has pale yellow greenish leaves and deep green leaves. Also known as rhamnus purshiana, Cascara has purple fruits or black berries that hide usually three hard seeds. Cascara Sagrada is harvested in the fall and can only be used dried (one year apart from the harvesting time) in order to release its curative benefits. Many people in Northern America specialize in Cascara Sagrada harvesting and herb processing (the plant needs to be properly dried and according to a list of specifications). Cascara Sagrada Tea Properties Cascara Sagrada Tea is known for its strong, stimulant and laxative properties. The main substances of this tea are very efficient in cases of nervous system failures and intestinal tract ailments. Cascara Sagrada Tea has a very bitter and therefore unpleasant taste. That’s why most people prefer to take it as capsules or extracts. Cascara Sagrada Tea Benefits Aside from its use as a constipation treatment, Cascara Sagrada Tea can also cure a variety of diseases involving the digestive tract, such as intestinal parasites or bacterial infections. However, make sure that you take this tea responsibly and don’t forget that this is a medical treatment wich only should be taking while you’re sick. Don’t try to replace your morning coffee with Cascara Sagrada Tea or you’ll face a series of complications! How to make Cascara Sagrada Tea Infusion When preparing Cascara Sagrada Tea, you have to make sure that you only use ingredients from a trusted provider. Nowadays, there are many illegal substances on the market sold as tea. Also, the herb you bought may be exactly what the label says it is, but not properly dried, in which case you’ll suffer from unwanted complications as well. Once you have the right ingredients, use a teaspoon of dried herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 20 minutes for the wonderful benefits to be released. Strain the decoction and drink it hot or cold. You may also add honey or even sugar if the taste feels a bit unpleasant. Cascara Sagrada Tea Side Effects When taken in small amounts, Cascara Sagrada Tea is a safe treatment. However, high dosages may lead to various problems, such as urine discoloration, blood in stools, pain and vomiting. Make sure the dosage you’re using is the appropriate one or ask your doctor before making any moves: it’s better to be safe than sorry! Cascara Sagrada Contraindications Cascara Sagrada Tea is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, patients suffering from appendicitis or ulcerative colitis. Also, if you are on blood thinners or anticoagulants, avoid taking a treatment based on Cascara Sagrada Tea. To gather more information, talk to an herbalist or to your doctor! If he gives you the green light and you happen to be in a teashop, add Cascara Sagrada Tea to your shopping cart and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... cascara sagrada tea - a powerful laxative

Public policy characterized by an explicit concern for health and equity in all areas of policy and by an accountability for health impact.... healthy public policy

Claytonia species

Description: All Claytonia species are somewhat fleshy plants only a few centimeters tall, with showy flowers about 2.5 centimeters across.

Habitat and Distribution: Some species are found in rich forests where they are conspicuous before the leaves develop. Western species are found throughout most of the northern United States and in Canada.

Edible Parts: The tubers are edible but you should boil them before eating.... indian potato or eskimo potato

D. Don.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Uttaranchal, Himachal Pradesh.

Ayurvedic: Kaakoli, Madhuraa, Kshira, Vayhasthaa, Karnikaa, Vaayasoli.

Action: Tuberous root—used as a tonic in emaciation and as a source of energy, after dry roasting.

Dosage: Tuberous root—3-6 g. (API, Vol. III.)... lilium polyphyllum

When LYSOL is swallowed it burns the mouth and throat. Brown discoloration of the affected tissues, accompanied by the characteristic smell of lysol on the breath, is typical.

Treatment This is urgent. If the skin has been contaminated with the lysol, it must be washed with water, and any lysol-contaminated clothing must be taken o?. Do not make the victim vomit if he or she has swallowed a corrosive substance such as lysol or phenol. Call an ambulance and say what the victim has taken. See APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID.... lysol poisoning

Cyanide inhibits cellular RESPIRATION by binding rapidly and reversibly with the ENZYME, cytochrome oxidase. E?ects of poisoning are due to tissue HYPOXIA. Cyanide is toxic by inhalation, ingestion and prolonged skin contact, and acts extremely quickly once absorbed. Following inhalation of hydrogen cyanide gas, death can occur within minutes. Ingestion of inorganic cyanide salts may produce symptoms within 10 minutes, again proceeding rapidly to death. On a full stomach, effects may be delayed for an hour or more. Signs of cyanide poisoning are headache, dizziness, vomiting, weakness, ATAXIA, HYPERVENTILATION, DYSPNOEA, HYPOTENSION and collapse. Loss of vision and hearing may occur, then COMA and CONVULSIONS. Other features include cardiac ARRHYTHMIA and PULMONARY OEDEMA. Patients may have a lactic ACIDOSIS. Their arterial oxygen tension is likely to be normal, but their venous oxygen tension high and similar to that of arterial blood.

Treatment Administration of oxygen when available is the most important ?rst-aid management. Rescuers should be trained, must not put themselves at risk, and should use protective clothing and breathing apparatus. In unconscious victims, establish a clear airway and give 100 per cent oxygen. If breathing stops and oxygen is unavailable, initiate expired-air resuscitation. If cyanide salts were ingested, mouth-to-mouth contact must be avoided and a mask with a one-way valve employed instead. Some commercially available ?rst-aid kits contain AMYL NITRATE as an antidote which may be employed if oxygen is unavailable.

Once in hospital, or if a trained physician is on the scene, then antidotes may be administered. There are several di?erent intravenous antidotes that may be used either alone or in combination. In mild to moderate cases, sodium thiosulphate is usually given. In more severe cases either dicobalt edetate or sodium nitrite may be used, followed by sodium thio-sulphate. Some of these (e.g. dicobalt edetate) should be given only where diagnosis is certain, otherwise serious adverse reations or toxicity due to the antidotes may occur.... cyanide poisoning

Linn.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Native to East Africa and Saudi Arabia.

English: Dragon's Blood.

Ayurvedic: Khoonkharaabaa, Heeraadokhi.

Unani: Dammul-Akhwain.

Family: Araceae.

Habitat: Maharashtra and Karnata- ka; cultivated in the South.

Siddha/Tamil: Kattu Karunayikki- langu.

Folk: Jangali Suuran.

Action: Root—antidiarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory (prescribed for haemorrhoids), antispasmodic (used in asthma), emmenagogue, abortifacient.... dracontium polyphyllum

See “health policy”.... national health policy

A fee paid by the consumer of health services directly to the provider at the time of delivery.... out-of-pocket payment

Poisoning by saxitoxin, a toxin present in some shellfish, usually in tropical or subtropical seas. Symptoms of respiratory arrest, or brain involvement occur in some 8% of cases, resulting in death. Saxitoxin is related to tetrodotoxin.... paralytic shellfish poisoning

Sm.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas from Simla to Bhutan and in Lushai and Aka Hills. Haimavati, Shveta-

Action: Plant—sedative, analgesic, haemostatic, anthelmintic.

The rhizome contains a glucoside, alpha-paristyphnin, which exhibited a depressant action on carotid pressure, myocardium, and respiratory movements experimentally. It produced vasoconstriction in kidney, but vasodilation in the spleen and limbs, and stimulated isolated intestines.... paris polyphylla

Vahl.

Synonym: G. tenax (Forsk.) Aschers & Schwf.

Family: Tiliaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Punjab, Sind, Rajasthan and Western India, down to the Nilgiri Hills.

Ayurvedic: Gaangeru(ki). Substitute for Gulshakari (Naagabalaa).

Siddha/Tamil: Achhu.

Folk: Gangeran.

Action: See G. hirsuta.

The stem bark contains triterpe- noids.

Dosage: Root—10-20 ml juice; 50100 ml decotion. (CCRAS.)... grewia populifolia

(Native American) Filled with j°y

Pokahontas, Pocohontas, Pokohontas, Pocahantas, Pokahantas... pocahontas

(Greek) In mythology, one of the Harpies... podarge

R. Chatterji & Mukerjee.

Family: Berberidaceae.

Habitat: Sikkim.

Folk: Paapraa (var.).

Action: Resin—used against tumours.

The rhizomes and roots yield 7.5% resin which gave a lignin lactone desig nated sikkimotoxin; also 3-galactosidyl quercetin, quercetin and isorhamne- tin. It is yet to be established that the lactone possesses properties analogous to those of podophyllotoxin.... podophyllum sikkimensis

Gunpowder tea is a Chinese tea made in Zhejiang Provence, China. It’s a form of green tea made out of withered, steamed, rolled and dried leaves. The name of gunpowder tea was given due to the fact that the small leaves which are tightly rolled into small round pellets, look like gunpowder. Gunpowder tea, like most green teas, comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant, which is a small leaved bush with many stems that can reach to almost 3 meters. There are many types of gunpowder tea, judging by the type of the leaves:

• Pingshui gunpowder which is the most common type, has larger pellets and a more powerful flavor. It is sold as Temple of Heaven Gunpowder.
• Formosa Gunpowder which is grown in Taiwan. Its fragrance is very close to the Taiwanese oolong tea.
• Ceylon Gunpowder is produced at high altitudes in Sri Lanka.

Brewing Gunpowder Tea There are many ways to brew gunpowder tea, but the most handy and common preparation is by putting 1 tablespoon of gunpowder leaves for every 5 ounces of water. The gunpowder must be steeped up to 1-2 minutes into water, boiled at 160 degrees. After that, it can be streamed and served. It is not recommended to put milk or sweeteners in it such as honey or sugar, since the tea already has a soft honey flavor. What does Gunpowder Tea contain? Gunpowder tea, since it is classified as a green tea, it shares all of the components of classic green tea, mainly antioxidant ingredients such as green tea catechins (GTC). The importance of antioxidants is very high since they find and eliminate disease-causing free radicals that can develop cancer or even damage the DNA structure. Benefits of Gunpowder Tea Because antioxidants fight free-radicals, the gunpowder tea helps maintaining your general health.

• It helps fight cancer due to the fact that antioxidants neutralize and reduce the damage that free radicals can cause to cells.
• Prevents type II diabetes due to the fact that green tea may improve insulin sensibility and glucose tolerance.
• It can also be used for treating loose digestion or indigestion. The antioxidants help reduce inflammations that are associated with ulcerative colitis and Chron’s disease.
• Heals wounds and controls bleeding because of the strong fluoride content.
• Slows aging process.

Gunpowder Tea side effects The general side effects that gunpowder tea can have are the same as the ones normal green tea present, such as nausea or stomach ache. Since it has caffeine,gunpowder tea can cause insomnia, nervousness or irritability, so avoid drinking it in the evening or before bed. Also it can cause iron deficiency, which is why people who take iron supplements are strongly advised not to drink any type of green tea, or to drink it at least 2 hours before taking the supplements or 4 hours after taking them. All in all, gunpowder tea has more benefits for your health than side effects.  It is good to drinkgunpowder tea, because it helps your immune system and provides you with all the vitamins you need in order to stay healthy.... gunpowder tea - a popular chinese green tea

Hibiscus tea is one of the most famous herbal tea drinks around the world. It is made from the red hibiscus flower, which is dried and steeped. Hibiscus tea can be drank either hot or cold and it is recognized for being a strong allied in the weight loss process. Hibiscus tea contains organic acids such as citric acid, malic acid and tartaric acid. This tea can be taken as a traditional supplement or as a natural medicine since it produces Vitamin C and minerals. How to make Hibiscus tea To prepare a perfect cup of hibiscus tea, first of all you will need to boil the water into a kettle. Then measure 2 teaspoons of hibiscus flowers or more if you want a stronger flavor. After the water is boiled, place the hibiscus flowers into the kettle and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Then pour the tea into a cup using a strainer to catch the hibiscus flowers. To enhance the flavor, you can always add lemon juice, sugar or even cinnamon. Hibiscus Tea benefits

• Lowers cholesterol
• Some studies revealed that people who suffer from type 2 diabetes may benefits from drinking this tea.
• In Eastern medicine, hibiscus tea is used to treat liver problems
• Due to the fact that hibiscus tea stops the body from absorbing too many carbohydrates, it is a string allied in the weight loss process.
• Since it contains Vitamin C, hibiscus tea helps preventing colds, flu and also, strengthens your immune system.

Hibiscus tea side effects

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid drinking hibiscus tea.
• People with low blood pressure are not advised to drink hibiscus tea.
• You should be careful if you want to drink hibiscus tea for the first time since it can (rarely) produce hallucinogenic effects or even cause a sensations similar to intoxication.
• If you are taking any type of anti-inflammatories and want to drink hibiscus tea, drink it two hours after taking the medicine.

Hibiscus tea makes a wonderful drink either on cold winter days or on hot summer days, since it can be consumed either hot or cold. Enjoy its benefits and try not to experience any of its side effects!... hibiscus tea - a popular herbal tea

(American) A romantic woman Poetrey, Poetri, Poetrie, Poetree, Poetrea... poetry

Benth.

Synonym: P. pubescens Benth.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Hills of South-western India, ascending to 1,200 m.

Folk: Phaangalaa (Maharashtra).

Action: Aerial parts—antifungal, antibacterial.

Acetone extract of the aerial parts exhibits larvicidal activity against the larva of malaria vector, Anopheles ste- phensi and Culex quinquefasciatus.... pogostemon parviflorus

The simplest form of intermittent positive-pressure ventilation is mouth-to-mouth resuscitation (see APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID) where an individual blows his or her own expired gases into the lungs of a non-breathing person via the mouth or nose. Similarly gas may be blown into the lungs via a face mask (or down an endotracheal tube) and a self-in?ating bag or an anaesthetic circuit containing a bag which is in?ated by the ?ow of fresh gas from an anaesthetic machine, gas cylinder, or piped supply. In all these examples expiration is passive.

For more prolonged arti?cial ventilation it is usual to use a specially designed machine or ventilator to perform the task. The ventilators used in operating theatres when patients are anaesthetised and paralysed are relatively simple devices.They often consist of bellows which ?ll with fresh gas and which are then mechanically emptied (by means of a weight, piston, or compressed gas) via a circuit or tubes attached to an endotracheal tube into the patient’s lungs. Adjustments can be made to the volume of fresh gas given with each breath and to the length of inspiration and expiration. Expiration is usually passive back to the atmosphere of the room via a scavenging system to avoid pollution.

In intensive-care units, where patients are not usually paralysed, the ventilators are more complex. They have electronic controls which allow the user to programme a variety of pressure waveforms for inspiration and expiration. There are also programmes that allow the patient to breathe between ventilated breaths or to trigger ventilated breaths, or inhibit ventilation when the patient is breathing.

Indications for arti?cial ventilation are when patients are unable to achieve adequate respiratory function even if they can still breathe on their own. This may be due to injury or disease of the central nervous, cardiovascular, or respiratory systems, or to drug overdose. Arti?cial ventilation is performed to allow time for healing and recovery. Sometimes the patient is able to breathe but it is considered advisable to control ventilation – for example, in severe head injury. Some operations require the patient to be paralysed for better or safer surgical access and this may require ventilation. With lung operations or very unwell patients, ventilation is also indicated.

Arti?cial ventilation usually bypasses the physiological mechanisms for humidi?cation of inspired air, so care must be taken to humidify inspired gases. It is important to monitor the e?cacy of ventilation – for example, by using blood gas measurement, pulse oximetry, and tidal carbon dioxide, and airways pressures.

Arti?cial ventilation is not without its hazards. The use of positive pressure raises the mean intrathoracic pressure. This can decrease venous return to the heart and cause a fall in CARDIAC OUTPUT and blood pressure. Positive-pressure ventilation may also cause PNEUMOTHORAX, but this is rare. While patients are ventilated, they are unable to breathe and so accidental disconnection from the ventilator may cause HYPOXIA and death.

Negative-pressure ventilation is seldom used nowadays. The chest or whole body, apart from the head, is placed inside an airtight box. A vacuum lowers the pressure within the box, causing the chest to expand. Air is drawn into the lungs through the mouth and nose. At the end of inspiration the vacuum is stopped, the pressure in the box returns to atmospheric, and the patient exhales passively. This is the principle of the ‘iron lung’ which saved many lives during the polio epidemics of the 1950s. These machines are cumbersome and make access to the patient di?cult. In addition, complex manipulation of ventilation is impossible.

Jet ventilation is a relatively modern form of ventilation which utilises very small tidal volumes (see LUNGS) from a high-pressure source at high frequencies (20–200/min). First developed by physiologists to produce low stable intrathoracic pressures whilst studying CAROTID BODY re?exes, it is sometimes now used in intensive-therapy units for patients who do not achieve adequate gas exchange with conventional ventilation. Its advantages are lower intrathoracic pressures (and therefore less risk of pneumothorax and impaired venous return) and better gas mixing within the lungs.... intermittent positive pressure (ipp)

Courage, Hex Breaking... poke

(Hawaiian) A kind young woman Polet, Polett, Polette, Poleta, Poletta... polete

The development of a policy.... policy formulation

(Russian) A small woman Polinah, Poleena, Poleenah, Poleana, Poleanah, Poliena, Polienah, Poleina, Poleinah, Polyna, Polynah... polina

MORPHINE and CODEINE are natural opium ALKALOIDS found in the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). The other opioids are either synthetic or semi-synthetic analogues of these. Their main use is in the treatment of moderate to severe PAIN, but they are also used as antidiarrhoeal and antitussive agents. As a result of induced tolerance (see DEPENDENCE) and great individual variability, the amount of opioid substances required to cause serious consequences varies enormously.

The most common effects of opioid overdose are vomiting, drowsiness, pinpoint pupils, BRADYCARDIA, CONVULSIONS and COMA. Respiratory depression is common and may lead to CYANOSIS and respiratory arrest. HYPOTENSION occurs occasionally and in severe cases non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema and cardiovascular collapse may occur. Cardiac ARRHYTHMIA may occur with some opioids. Some opioids have a HISTAMINE-releasing e?ect which may result in an urticarial rash (see URTICARIA), PRURITUS, ?ushing and hypotension. Activated CHARCOAL should be given following overdose and NALOXONE administered to reverse respiratory depression and deep coma.... opioid poisoning

Paracetamol is one of the safest drugs when taken in the correct dosage, but overdose may occur inadvertently or deliberately. Initially there may be no symptoms or there may be nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and pallor. Then, 16–24 hours after ingestion, liver damage becomes evident and by 72–120 hours the patient may have JAUNDICE, COAGULATION abnormalities, hepatic failure (see LIVER, DISEASES OF), renal failure (see KIDNEYS, DISEASES OF), ENCEPHALOPATHY and COMA. Treatment involves the administration of antidotes such as METHIONINE (within 8 hours) orally or intravenous ACETYLCYSTEINE.

An overdose of paracetamol is a common choice of those attempting to commit suicide. Since the government restricted the number of paracetamol tablets an individual may purchase over the counter, the incidence of people taking the drug in overdose with the intention of taking their lives has fallen sharply.... paracetamol poisoning

Royle.

Synonym: P. emodi Wall. ex Hook. f. & Thoms.

Family: Berberidaceae.

Habitat: Inner ranges of the Himalayas, from Kashmir to Sikkim at 1,800-4,000 m.

English: Indian Podophyllum.

Ayurvedic: Giriparpata.

Folk: Bana-kakari (Punjab), Venivel (Gujarat), Patvel (Maharashtra). Paapraa, Paapri.

Action: Rhizomes and roots— antineoplastic. Strongly irritant to skin and mucous membranes. Used topically as an ointment for venereal warts, verrucae and similar conditions.

Key application: P. peltatum— externally, for removal of pointed condyloma (skin adjacent to the treated area should be protected). (German Commission E.) P hexandrum: Podophyllin (10-40%) for external application, 2-6 h weekly, for anogenital warts. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.) (Podophyllin is a mitotic poison.)

May Apple of North America is equated with Podophyllum peltatum Linn. The main lignin is podophyllo- toxin. Podophyllum hexandrum contains similar lignans with the exception of alpha-and beta-peltatins, which are reportedly absent; the concentration of podophyllotoxin is up to 4.3%. P. peltatum contains about 0.25% and the Taiwanese species P. pleianthum 0.1% podophyllotoxin.

(Podophyllotoxin is a valuable lig- nin, as it is used for the synthesis of chemically administered cytostat- ic etoposide and tenoposide.)... podophyllum hexandrum

Kuntze.

Synonym: P. plectranthoides Desf.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout greater part of India.

Folk: Ishwar-jataa. Jui-lataa (Bihar, Bengal). Phaangalaa (Maharashtra).

Action: Root—used in haemorrhage, especially in uterine haemorrhage. Leaf—styptic; used for cleaning wounds. Essential oil—antifungal. Acetone extract— insecticidal, insect repellent.

Pogostemonpubescens Benth., synonym P. parviflorus Benth. is also known as Phaangalaa in Maharashtra. Aerial part exhibits antifungal and leaf antibacterial activity.

Sesquiterpene lactone, caryophyl- len-9-beta-10-olide, has been isolated from the whole plant.

Pogostemon purpurascens Dalz. (Manipur and South-western India) also possesses properties similar to P. benghalensis. The acetone extract exhibited larvicidal activity against the larvae of malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi. It also showed activity against yellow fever mosquito.... pogostemon benghalensis

(English) Form of Mary, meaning “star of the sea / from the sea of bitterness” Polley, Polli, Pollie, Pall, Paili, Paley, Paliki, Poll, Pollyanna, Pollyana, Pollee, Pollea... polly

“Powder of (plant or mineral name)”; see plant or mineral name specified.... polvo de

Benth.

Synonym: P. patchouli var. sauvis Hook. f.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Native to the Philippines; introduced in India.

English: Patchouli.

Ayurvedic: Paachi.

Folk: Paanari.

Action: Plant—insecticidal. Leaves—an infusion is given in menstrual troubles.

The oil, extracted from dried leaves, is reported to possess antibacterial activity against E. coli, Staphylococcus au- reus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Bacterium coli and B. typhosum. It is also found effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The oil is used in insect- repellent preparations.... pogostemon cablin

Hook. f. non-Pelletier.

Synonym: P. heyneanus Benth.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats of Karnataka, Kerala and the Nilgiri hills up to 1,800 m.

English: Patchouli.

Ayurvedic: Paachi, Pancholi.

Siddha/Tamil: Kadir Pachai.

Folk: Paanch (Maharashtra), Sugandhi Paanadi (Gujarat).

Action: Leaf—bechic, antiasthmatic. A poultice of leaves is applied to boils and to relieve headache.

The plant gave alpha-pyrone derivatives, pogopyrones A and B; n-octaco- sanol, beta-sitosterol and its glucoside and several flavones. Pogopyrone B exhibited cytotoxic activity.... pogostemon patchoulis

Phytolacca decandra. N.O. Phytolaccaceae.

Synonym: Garget, Pigeon Berry.

Habitat: U.S.A. Cultivated on a sm.ill scale in England for medicinal purposes.

Features ? The root is obtainable in longitudinally split pieces or in transverse slices. Ringed, brownish-grey externally, hard and whitish inside; fibrous fracture. Berries purplish-black, nearly globular, ten carpels, each containing one lens-shaped seed.

Part used ? Root, berries.

Action: Alterative, cathartic.

Chronic rheumatism and skin diseases. Of some use in dyspepsia. Action of root stronger than berries. For rheumatism the root is often compounded with Black Cohosh and Wintergreen.

Preparation and dosage vary considerably with the condition of the root. Thurston, Hammer and other physio-medical practitioners recommend that only the green root should be used, owing to, rapid deterioration. These herbalists use the fresh root largely in hardening of the liver and reduced biliary flow.... poke root

Phytolacca americana

Description: This plant may grow as high as 3 meters. Its leaves are elliptic and up to 1 meter in length. It produces many large clusters of purple fruits in late spring.

Habitat and Distribution: Look for this plant in open, sunny areas in forest clearings, in fields, and along roadsides in eastern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Edible Parts: The young leaves and stems are edible cooked. Boil them twice, discarding the water from the first boiling. The fruits are edible if cooked.

CAUTION

All parts of this plant are poisonous if eaten raw. Never eat the underground portions of the plant as these contain the highest concentrations of the poisons. Do not eat any plant over 25 centimeters tall or when red is showing in the plant.

Other Uses: Use the juice of fresh berries as a dye.... pokeweed

Linn.

Family: Amaryllidaceae.

Habitat: Native to Mexico; cultivated for ornamental use.

English: Tuberose.

Ayurvedic: Rajanigandhaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Nilasampangi.

Folk: Gulcheri, Gulshabbu.

Action: Flowers and bulbs— diuretic. Externally used for skin eruptions. The bulbs are rubbed with turmeric and butter and applied over red pimples of infants. The bulbs are reported to contain an alkaloid, lycorin, which causes vomiting.

Dried and powdered bulbs are used for gonorrhoea.... polianthes tuberosa

See POLYCHROMASIA.... polychromatophilia

An inherited disease in which the KIDNEYS contain many cysts. These grow in size until normal kidney tissue is largely destroyed. Cysts may also occur in other organs such as the liver. In adults, the disease will cause HYPERTENSION and kidney failure. There is also a juvenile form. There is no e?ective treatment, although symptoms can be alleviated by DIALYSIS and sometimes kidney transplant (see TRANSPLANTATION).... polycystic disease of the kidney

Antifungal agents that include AMPHOTERICIN (given by intravenous injection in the treatment of systemic ASPERGILLOSIS) and NYSTATIN, applied topically for fungus infection of the skin, mouth and other mucous membranes.... polyenes

Buch.-Ham. ex DC.

Family: Polygalaceae.

Habitat: Tropical Himalayas from Simla to Sikkim and the Khasi Hills.

Folk: Lilakanthi, Lilakaathi. (Bihar). Maraad (var.).

Action: Root—used for cough and pulmonary catarrh; chewed or ground and drunk with water to expel phlegm from the throat; provokes coughing.... polygala crotalarioides

A poison is any substance which, if absorbed by, introduced into or applied to a living organism, may cause illness or death. The term ‘toxin’ is often used to refer to a poison of biological origin. Toxins are therefore a subgroup of poisons, but often little distinction is made between the terms. The study of the effects of poisons is toxicology and the effects of toxins, toxinology.

The concept of the dose-response is important for understanding the risk of exposure to a particular substance. This is embodied in a statement by Paracelsus (c.1493–1541): ‘All substances are poisons; there is none which is not a poison. The right dose di?erentiates a poison and a remedy.’

Poisoning may occur in a variety of ways: deliberate – SUICIDE, substance abuse or murder; accidental – including accidental overdose of medicines; occupational; and environmental

– including exposure during ?re.

Ingestion is the most common route of exposure, but poisoning may also occur through inhalation, absorption through the skin, by injection and through bites and stings of venomous animals. Poisoning may be described as acute, where a single exposure produces clinical effects with a relatively rapid onset; or chronic, where prolonged or repeated exposures may produce clinical effects which may be insidious in onset, cumulative and in some cases permanent.

Diagnosis of poisoning is usually by circumstantial evidence or elimination of other causes of the clinical condition of the patient. Some substances (e.g. opioids) produce a characteristic clinical picture in overdose that can help with diagnosis. In some patients laboratory analysis of body ?uids or the substance taken may be useful to determine or con?rm the o?ending agent. Routine assays are not necessary. For a very small number of poisons, such as paracetamol, aspirin, iron and lead, the management of the patient may depend on measuring the amount of poison in the bloodstream.

Accurate statistics on the incidence of poisoning in the UK are lacking. Mortality ?gures are more reliable than morbidity statistics; annually, well over 100,000 cases of poisoning are admitted to hospital. The annual number of deaths from poisoning is relatively small – about 300 – and in most cases patients die before reaching hospital. Currently, CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) is by far the most common cause of death due to poisoning. The most common agents involved in intentional or accidental poisoning are drugs, particularly ANALGESICS, ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS and SEDATIVES. Alcohol is also commonly taken by adults, usually in combination with drugs. Children frequently swallow household cleaners, white spirit, plant material – such as belladonna (deadly nightshade) and certain mushrooms; for example, death cap and ?y agaric – aftershave and perfume as well as drugs. If possible, the suspect container, drug or plant should be taken with the victim to the hospital or doctor. The use of child-resistant containers has reduced the number of admissions of children to hospital for treatment. Bixtrex® is an intensely bitter-tasting agent which is often added to products to discourage ingestion; however, not everybody is able to taste it, nor has any bene?cial e?ect been proven.

Treatment of poisoning usually begins with decontamination procedures. For ingested substances this may involve making the patient sick or washing the stomach out (GASTRIC LAVAGE): this is usually only worthwhile if performed soon after ingestion. It should be emphasised that salt (sodium chloride) water must never be given to induce vomiting, since this procedure is dangerous and has caused death. For substances spilt on the skin, the affected area should immediately be thoroughly washed and all contaminated clothing removed. Following eye exposure, the affected eye/s should be thoroughly irrigated with saline or water.

Treatment thereafter is generally symptomatic and supportive, with maintenance of the victim’s respiratory, neurological and cardiovascular systems and, where appropriate, monitoring of their ?uid and electrolyte balance and hepatic and renal function. There are speci?c antidotes for a few substances: the most important of these are PARACETAMOL, iron, cyanide (see CYANIDE POISONING), opioids (see OPIOID), DIGOXIN, insecticides and some heavy metals. Heavy-metal poisoning is treated with CHELATING AGENTS – chemical compounds that form complexes by binding metal ions: desferrioxamine and pencillinamine are two such agents. The number of people presenting with paracetamol overdose – a common drug used for attempted suicide – has fallen sharply since restrictions were placed on its over-thecounter sales.

When a patient presents with an illness thought to be caused by exposure to substances at work, further exposure should be limited or prevented and investigations undertaken to determine the source and extent of the problem. Acutely poisoned workers will usually go to hospital, but those suffering from chronic exposure may attend their GP with non-speci?c symptoms (see OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, MEDICINE AND DISEASES).

In recent years, legislation has been enacted in the UK to improve safety in the workplace and to ensure that data on the hazardous constituents and effects of chemicals are more readily available. These o?cial controls include the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and the Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging) Regulations (CHIP) and are UK legislation in response to European Union directives.

The National Poisons Information Service is a 24-hour emergency telephone service available to the medical profession and provides information on the likely effects of numerous agents and advice on the management of the poisoned patient. The telephone numbers are available in the medical literature. In the UK this is not a public-access service. People who believe they, or their relatives, have been poisoned should seek medical advice from their GPs or attend their local hospital.

Toxbase The National Poisons Information Service provides a primary clinical toxicology database on the Internet: www.spib.axl.co.uk. This website provides information about routine diagnosis, treatment and management of people exposed to drugs, household products and industrial and agricultural products.

(See also APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID.)... poisons

D. Don.

Synonym: Bistorta affinis (D. Don) Green.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal at altitudes of 2,4004,800 m.

Folk: Khukhudi.

Action: Flowers—stimulant.

The inflorescence gave flavonoids, including quercetin, isorhamnetin, lu- teolin and apigenin derivatives. The leaves contain the flavonoids, 8-C- glucosyltricin and isorhamnetin.... polygonum affine

Thw.

Family: Annonaceae.

Habitat: Native to Sri Lanka; grown in gardens throughout the warmer parts of India.

English: Mast tree, Fake Asoka tree, False Devadaru, Cemetry tree

Ayurvedic: Devadaari (Devadaaru is equated with Cedrus deodara). (An adulterant to the bark of Saraca asoca.)

Siddha/Tamil: Nettilingam.

Action: Febrifuge. Causes cardiac depression.

The stem bark contains clerodane diterpenes, polyalthialdoic acid and kolavenic acid. The stem and its bark also contain the cytotoxic aporphine alkaloid, liriodenine, besides nor-oli- veroline and oliveroline-beta-N-oxide. Azafluorene alkaloids are also present in the bark and leaves. The leaf exhibits fungitoxic activity.

Polyalthia simiarum Hook. f. & Thoms. (Orissa, Assam, Bengal, Bihar, Eastern Himalaya) is also equated with Fake Ashoka tree. It is known as Boga-khamtou in Assam, Wojarah, Mongai in Orissa and Labshi, Kutti in Nepal.

Polyalthia suberosa Thw. (from Assam to Uttar Pradesh in the North and Kerala in the South) is known as Chamkhirni. The leaves contain alpha-and beta-amyrin, lupeol, beta- sitosterol, stigmasterol and campes- terol. The stems and leaves contain the triterpene, suberosol, which showed anti-HIV replication activity. The stem bark contains alkaloids, oxostepha- nine and lanuginosine, which exhibited antibacterial activity against several Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.... polyalthia longifolia

Lam.

Family: Caryophyllaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the greater part of India, ascending up to 2,100 m in the Himalaya.

Ayurvedic: Parpata (substitute).

Siddha/Tamil: Nilaisedachi.

Folk: Pittapaaparaa (Uttar Pradesh), Rupaaphuli (Gujarat).

Action: Leaves—anti-inflammatory, applied as poultice. Also prescribed in jaundice in the form of pills with molasses. Flowering head, along with stem and leaves—astringent, demulcent. Plant—spermicidal.

The plant gave camelliagenins (bar- rigenol) and stigmasterol.... polycarpaea corymbosa

(Forsk.) Alschers & Schweinf.

Synonym: P. loeflingii Benth. & Hook. f.

Habitat: Throughout the warmer parts of India in fields and waste places.

Folk: Ghima, Suretaa.

Action: Leaves—an infusion of roasted leaves is given for cough following fever, particularly in measles.

Alcoholic extract of the plant exhibits spasmolytic activity. The aerial parts contain tetrahydroxy triterpenes. Presence ofa triterpenoid saponin, and hentriacontane, hentriacontanol, beta- amyrin and its acetate, beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol is also reported.... polycarpon prostratum

R.Br.

Family: Polygonaceae.

English: Throughout warmer parts of India in moist areas, ascending to 2,100 m in the Himalayas.

Ayurvedic: Sarpaakshi (a confusing synonym).... polygonum plebeium

(Greek) In mythology, the muse of sacred songs and dance Polyhymniah, Polymnia, Polymniah... polyhymnia

Auct. Non Linn.

Synonym: P. arvensis Willd.

Family: Polygalaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India and the Andamans.

English: Senega.

Folk: Meradu, Maraad, Negali (Maharashtra). Maraad (Nepal).

Action: Root—antiasthmatic; used as a substitute for Senega obtained from the American plant Polygala senega. (In Chinese medicine Senega refers to P. tenuifolia Willd.)

Key application: Senega Root— in productive cough, catarrh of the respiratory tract and chronic bronchitis. (German Commission E, ESCOP, WHO.)

Senega yielded lactonic lignans, their glycosides and flavonol glycosides. The root gave arctiin, afzelin, myricitrin and rutin. A triterpenic saponin was also obtained from the plant. The root contains salicylic acid, methyl salicylate and senegin (a sapo- nin mixture).

Senega is used for chronic bronchitis, catarrh, asthma and croup, as an infusion.

Related species are: P. chinesis Linn., synonym P. glomerata Lour; P. tele- phioides Willd., synonym P. brachys- tachya DC. non-Bl., found throughout the plains of India. Both the plants are used as expectorant, antiasthmatic and anticatarrhal.

Toxic constituents of Polygala senega root are: triterpene saponins—6- 16% senegasaponins A-D with agly- cone presenegenin or senegin. Sapo- nins irritate GI tract mucosa and cause reflex secretion of mucous in the bronchioles.

A French patent is used against graft rejection, eczema and multiple sclerosis as an anti-inflammatory drug.... polygala chinensis

Linn.

Synonym: P. heyneana Wall. ex W. & A.

Family: Polygalaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the Himalayas and Western Ghats.

English: Common Milkwort.

Folk: Negali, Meradu (var.).

Action: Leaves—used in spermatorrhoea. Root—a decoction is given as an expectorant in cold and cough and chronic chest diseases. (Used as a substitute for Senega.) Also used for inflammation of urinary bladder; externally for mammary abscesses and carbuncles.... polygala sibirica

(Wall.) Royle.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Northern Himalayas, from 1,500 to 3,300 m.

Ayurvedic: Mahaa-medaa, Medaa, (substitute: Asparagus racemosus, also Saalab-misri.)

Folk: Devarigaanl (Gharwal).

Action: Root—rejuvenating tonic for nervous system.

The root gave neoprazerigenin A- 3-O-beta-lycotetraoside (PS-III) and its methyl proto-type congener (PS- II) and steroidal saponins, sibiricoside A (PS-I) and sibiricoside B (PS-IV).

Dosage: Root—3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... polygonatum cirrhifolium

All.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon and in Manipur.

English: Solomon's Seal.

Ayurvedic: Mahaa-medaa, Medaa (var.). (Substitute: Asparagus racemosus.)

Action: Anti-inflammatory, nervine, astringent. Used as an infusion for pulmonary complaints; as a poultice for piles and bruises.

The root and herb gave diosgenin and its glycosides.

Dosage: Root—3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... polygonatum multiflorum

All.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas and Manipur.

Ayurvedic: Medaa. (Substitute: Asparagus racemosus.)

Unani: Shaqaaqul. (Substitute: Pastinaca secacul.)

Folk: Mithaa-dudhiaa.

Action: Used in Tibetan medicine for treating emaciation, senility, pulmonary affections. The rhizomes is valued as salep.

The dried rhizomes contain 6.2-9% diosgenin.

The lactins of the rootstock did not contain carbohydrates; the amino acid revealed presence of 28% aspartic acid and asparagine.

The plant exhibits diuretic properties. It gave a digitalis glucoside and is considered poisonous by the hill people in the Himalayas.... polygonatum verticillatum

A group of antibiotics derived from various species of Bacillus polymyxa. One variety, colistin, is used to sterilise the bowels before surgery as it is not absorbed when given by mouth. The drugs are sometimes used in topical applications for infections of the skin, eye and ear.... polymyxin

Linn.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: From Kashmir to Kumaon.

English: Knotgrass, Knotweed, Mexican Sanguinaria.

Folk: Machoti, Kesri.

Action: Astringent and haemostatic. Used for excessive menstruation, bleeding piles; bleeding from bowel, stomach, lungs, nose, throat; mucous colitis, children's summer diarrhoea.

Key application: In mild catarrhs of the respiratory tract, inflammatory changes to the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. (German Commission E.)

The plant gave flavonoids including quercetin, avicularin, quercitrin, and derivatives of kaempferol, esculetin and scopoletin. The plant also gave gallic, caffeic, oxalic., silicic, chloro- genic and p-coumaric acids; tannins including catechin.

The methanolic extract of the plant showed high protection against CCl4- induced hepatotoxicity in mice. This activity is attributed to the presence of flavonoid glucosides.

The flavonoids exhibit astringent properties and are found to decrease capillary fragility and have a cortisonelike-effect on gingival tissue. (J Ethno- pharmacol, 74(1), 2001.)... polygonum aviculare

Linn.

Synonym: P. paleaceum Wall. ex Hook. f.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim and the hills of Assam.

English: Snake Weed, Bistort, Dragon Wort.

Unani: Anjabaar.

Action: Anti-inflammatory, haemostatic, astringent, demulcent, anticatarrhal, antidiarrhoeal. Used for internal haemorrhages, irritable bowel, diverticulosis, urinary and uterine affections. Used as a mouth wash and gargle for ulcerated mouth and bleeding gums.

The herb contains ferulic, sinapic, vanillic, syringic, melilotic, p-couma- ric, p-hydroxybenzoic, gentisic, sali- cyclic and ellagic acids, about 15-20% tannins mainly catechins.

When administered before the induction of adjuvant arthritis, the aqueous-ethanolic extract of the herb inhibited both the maximal oedema response and the total oedema response in rat.... polygonum bistorta

Willd.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in marshy places, up to 1,900 m. in the hills.

Ayurvedic: Rakta-rohidaa (Gujarat).

Siddha/Tamil: Attalaree.

Action: Plant juice and rootstock— used in pneumonia, consumption, jaundice, fevers. Leaf— antispasmodic. Used for colic.

The leaves contain flavonoids— quercetin, rhamnetin, quercitrin, avic- ularin and rutin. Flowers contain pigments, delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside and cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside and quercetin.

The methanolic aqueous extract of the leaf gave a pure anthelmintic substance, a terpenoid (PGA). (The herb is used as an anthelmintic in Sudan.)... polygonum glabrum

Linn.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in wet places.

English: Water Pepper, Pepperwort, Smartweed.

Folk: Paakur-muula, Paani-maricha (Bengal).

Action: Haemostatic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, lithotriptic, emmenagogue (used as infusion for delayed menses and amenorrhoea), antifungal (root and leaf used externally). Contraindicated during pregnancy.

The herb contains sesquiterpenes, including warburganal and polygodial, in the leaves; polygonal, isodrimeni- nol, isopolygodial and confertifolin in the seeds; and flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin and rhamnesin; polygonolide (an iso- coumarin).

Isoquercitrin exhibited significant anti-oxidative activity. Polygodial and warburganal possess significant an- tifungal property. Warburganal also possesses potent cytotoxic and antibiotic activity. (The herb is used against cancer.)

Folk: Muniyaaraa (Bihar), Raani- phool, Macheti, Dubiaa Saaga.

Action: Galactogenic, antidiar- rhoeal. Powdered herb is given in pneumonia.

The whole plant yields 11% tannin. The rootstock contains oxymethylan- thraquinone.

Flowers gave oleanolic acid, betulin- ic acid, epi-friedelanol, beta-sitosterol, and flavonoids—quercetin, quercetin- 3-arabinoside and quercetin-3-rutino- side.... polygonum hydropiper

A suggestion by two epidemiologists, made in the British Medical Journal in 2003, that many lives could be saved if all persons aged over 55 took a daily combination pill they termed the polypill. Its components would be ASPIRIN, a CHOLESTEROL-lowering agent, FOLIC ACID and two blood-pressure-lowering agents. The suggestion caused a massive correspondence as it implied treating a whole population rather than individuals considered to be at special risk.... polypill

Linn.

Family: Polypodiaceae. English: Polypody Root. Unani: Bisfaayaj.

Action: Expectorant, laxative, stomachic, cholagogue, alterative, antistress. Used in cough, bronchitis, catarrh, loss of appetite, dyspepsia; and in skin diseases.

The rhizome gave saponin glyco- sides, based on polypodosapogenin, including osladin; ecdysteroids; phlo- roglucin derivatives; tannin.... polypodium vulgare

Linn.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim at 3,3004,800 m.

English: Viviparous Bistort.

Unani: Anjabaar. (substitute).

Folk: Billori, Maamekh (Punjab).

Action: Rootstock—astringent, antidiarrhoeal, antileucorrhoeic, antiseptic, antiperiodic. Used in haemoptysis; also for gleet. A decoction is used as a gargle for sore throat and spungy gums, as a lotion for ulcers.... polygonum viviparum

Fries

Family: Polyporaceae.

Habitat: On the old trunks of various coniferous trees.

English: White Agaric.

Unani: Ghaariqoon.

Action: Used in the treatment of sweats in wasting diseases such as phthisis (it checks profuse sweats); also as an expectorant and diuretic.

The drug contains agaric acid (agari- cin). The resinous extract, when burnt, yields not more than 2% of a white ash, rich in phosphates. The drug gives 46% soft resin.

Agaric acid acts as a counter-irritant when applied to abraded surfaces or mucous membrane.... polyporus officinalis

(L.) Harms.

Synonym: Nothopanaxfruticosum (L.) Miq.

Panax fruticosus L.

Family: Araliaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in gardens all over India.

Action: Leaf—used in sinusitis, headache, migraine, tonsillitis. Stem bark—used for promoting expulsion of placenta after child birth. Root— antibacterial, antifungal, diuretic. Leaf and root—used in dysuria.

The root contains polyacetylenes, falcarinol and heptadeca derivatives. Falcarinol and heptadeca exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and the der- matophytic bacteria, also showed an- tifungal activity. The antibacterial activity of falcarinol was found to be 15 to 35 times stronger than that of erythromycin, chloramphenicol and oxytetracyclin.

Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) F. R. Fosberg (commonly grown in Indian gardens) exhibits anti-inflammatory activity. The leaves contain several tri- terpenoid saponins, polyscisaponins, oleanolic acid derivatives.... polyscias fruticosa

(Greek) In mythology, a daughter of Priam who was loved by Achilles Polyxenah, Polyxenia, Polyxenna, Polyxene, Polyxenea... polyxena

Pomade, salve or ointment; an oil-based preparation of medicinal plants for external application, often used for healing skin ailments, muscle pain or sinus conditions.... pomada

Butter pomade; a slightly solidified nut butter used externally as an ointment or salve; for example, made from peanuts (maní) or sesame seeds (ajonjolí).... pomada de manteca

(Latin) In mythology, goddess of fruit trees

Pomonah, Pomonia, Pomonea, Pamona, Pamonia, Pamonea... pomona

(American) An arrogant woman Pompah, Pompy, Pompey, Pompee, Pompea, Pompi, Pompie... pompa

(Latin) Feminine form of Pompey; fifth-born child; woman from Pompeii

Pompaya, Pompaiya, Pompaeya... pompeya

(African) The second-born daughter Ponni, Ponie, Ponnie, Pony, Ponny, Poney, Ponney, Ponee, Ponnee, Ponea, Ponnea... poni

(American) Resembling the dog; one with curly hair Poudle, Poodel, Poudel... poodle

(American) A cute and cuddly girl Pookey, Pooki, Pookie, Pookee, Pookea... pooky

(Hindi) A kind and caring woman Pounam... poonam

Pierre.

Synonym: P. glabra Vent. Derris indica (Lam.) Benett.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats, tidal forests up to 1,200 m.

English: Pongam Oil tree, Indian Beech.

Ayurvedic: Karanja.

Siddha/Tamil: Pungam.

Action: Oil—applied in scabies, herpes, leucoderma and other cutaneous diseases; over chest in pneumonia and cold; also used internally as cholagogue in sluggish liver. Leaves—juice is prescribed in flatulence, dyspepsia, diarrhoea and cough. An infusion is given for leprosy and gonorrhoea. Root— a paste is used in scrofulous enlargements; juice is used for cleaning foul ulcers and closing fistulous sores. Stem bark—given internally in bleeding piles. Rind of pod and seed—prescribed in bronchitis and whooping cough. Leaf and seed—antileprotic. Leaf and seed oil—antirheumatic.

The tree is rich in flavonoids and related compounds. These include simple flavones, furanoflavonoids, chro- menoflavones, chromenochalcones, coumarones, flavone glucosides, sterols, triterpenes and a modified phenyl- alanine dipeptide. Seeds and seed oil gave karanjin, pongamol, pongapin and kanjone.

The aqueous extract of stem bark shows significant sedative and antipyretic effects in rats, and antispas- modic effect in vitro on smooth muscles.

In Indonesia, a decoction ofthe bark is drunk after child birth.

The aqueous extract of seeds showed significant antiviral activity against herpes simplex viruses HSV-1 and 2 cell lines experimentally. Albino rats, treated with the aqueous extract of seeds, recovered faster from induced infection and skin-burn than the untreated ones.

Dosage: Seed—250 mg powder; 510 g for decoction. (API, Vol. I.)... pongamia pinnata

Money, Flying... poplar

A group of individuals or items that share one or more characteristics from which data can be gathered and analysed.... population

The name given to the region behind the knee. The muscles attached to the bones immediately above and below the knee bound a diamond-shaped space through which pass the main artery and vein of the limb (known in this part of their course as the popliteal artery and vein); the tibial and common peroneal nerves (which continue the sciatic nerve from the thigh down to the leg); the external saphenous vein; and several small nerves and lymphatic vessels. The muscles – which bound the upper angle of the space and which are attached to the leg bones by strong prominent tendons – are known as the hamstrings. The lower angle of the space lies between the two heads of the gastrocnemius muscle, which makes up the main bulk of the calf of the leg.... popliteal space

The increase over time in the proportion of the population of a specified older age.... population ageing

The study of changes in the number and composition of individuals in a population and the factors that influence those changes. Population dynamics involves five basic components of interest, to which all changes in populations can be related: birth, death, sex ratio, age structure and dispersal.... population dynamics

A graphic presentation of the age and sex composition of the population.... population pyramid

Health services targeted at populations with specific diseases or disorders.... population-based services

Linn.

Family: Salicaceae.

Habitat: Northwestern Himalaya at 1,200-3,000 m, also grown in avenues.

English: White Poplar.

Folk: Safedaa, Jangali Fraas.

Action: Bark—antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antipyretic, diuretic, febrifuge, stimulant, antiseptic. Used for arthritis, rheumatic affections, cystitis and other urinary diseases, stomach and liver disorders, anorexia and debility.

Key application: Unopened leaf- buds externally for haemorrhoids, frostbite and sunburn. (German Commission E.)

The bark contains glycosides, salicin and populin, erisin and tannin (5-9%). Salicin, a bitter tonic and antiperiod- ic, is used like quinine in intermittent fever, also in rheumatism.... populus alba

Linn. var. italica Kochne.

Family: Salicaceae.

Habitat: North-western Himalaya at 900-3,700 m.

English: Black Lombardy Poplar.

Action: Bark and balsam from leaf bud— used for cold. Bark— depurative. Leaf bud—antiseptic, anti- inflammatory.

The bud exudate contains dimethyl- caffeic acid, which was found active against herpes simplex virus type 1.

A 50% ethanol extract of a mixture of flowers and buds showed 11% inhibition of enzymatic conversion of testosterone into 5 alpha-dihydrotesterone and 4-androstene-3,17-dione. The extract was partitioned between ethylac- etate and water and the resultant ethy- lacetate fraction contained the active compounds, pinobanksin, demethyl- quercetin and pinocembrin. It exhibited 15% inhibitory activity on the enzyme. Pinocembrin was the most potent, almost equal to estradiol, which was used as a control.

The bark of all Populus species contains, phenolic glycosides, salicin and populin (salicinbenzoate). Tannins are also present (5-9%).

Both salicin and populin cause elimination of uric acid. Salicin is antiperi- odic and is used like quinine in intermittent fever, also in coryza, rheumatism and neuralgia.... populus nigra

(Hebrew) A fertile woman Porah, Porrah, Porra, Poria, Poriah, Porea, Poreah... pora

Complex organic compounds which are sensitive to light and form the basis of respiratory pigments – for example, haemoglobin and myoglobin. Porphyrins are crucial to many metabolic oxidation/reduction reactions in animals, plants, and micro-organisms.... porphyrins

Requirement in benefit plans that allow benefit rights to be transferred without waiting periods for persons moving between plans, regions or countries.... portability

This is a type of circulatory bypass used when substances in blood or fluid need to be kept out of the general flow. A portal system begins in capillaries and ends in capillaries, and nothing leaves it undocumented. The hypothalamus sends hormones into the portal system between it and the pituitary, and the pituitary responds to it by secreting its own hormones, but dissolving the hypothalamus ones. Blood that leaves the intestinal tract, spleen, and pancreas (partially) goes into the liver’s portal system and does not leave that organ until it has been thoroughly screened and altered.... portal circulation

(Latin) The doorkeeper... porter

(Latin) Piglike woman; an offering Portiah, Porsha, Porscha... portia

A group of rare inherited ENZYME diseases in which disorders of the metabolic pathways leading to the synthesis of HAEM cause excessive production of haem precursors called PORPHYRINS by the bone marrow or liver. The excess porphyrins in the blood mainly affect the skin, causing PHOTOSENSITIVITY, or the central nervous system, causing various neuro-psychiatric disorders. Excess porphyrins can be detected in blood, urine and faeces. Usually porphyrias are genetically determined, but one form is due to alcoholic liver disease. The commonest form, porphyria cutanea tarda, affects up to 1 in 5,000 people in some countries. The British king, George III, suffered from porphyria, a disorder unrecognised in the 18th century.... porphyrias

The colloquial term used for the multi-tentacled hydrozoan colony of Physalia physalis common in the north Atlantic Ocean.... portuguese man-o’-war

Linn.

Family: Portulacaceae.

Habitat: All over India, cultivated as a vegetable.

English: Common Purslane.

Ayurvedic: Brihat Lonikaa, Lonaa, Loni, Ghoddhika, Ghotikaa, Upodika, Khursaa.

Unani: Khurfaa, Kulfaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Pulli-keerai, Parup- pukirai.

Action: Refrigerant (reduces body heat), mild spasmodic, diuretic, antiscorbutic. Used in scurvy and in diseases of liver, spleen, kidney and bladder; also in dysuria, stomatitis and dysentery. A paste of leaves is applied to swellings, erysipelas, burns and scalds. Seeds—diuretic, antidysenteric; applied externally to burns and scalds.

A crude protein-free extract of the herb contained l-nor-adrenaline, do- pamine and l-dopa, also catechol. (The fresh plant contained 2.5 mg/g l-nor- adrenaline in one sample.) The extract gave a strong pressor response when injected intravenously into anaesthetized dogs.

The oral administration of the ho- mogenates of P. oleracea reduced the blood sugar level of alloxan-diabetic rabbits to normal.

The extract of the leaves and stems reduced muscle tone in individuals suffering from spasticity and exhibited skeletal muscle relaxant activity both in vitro and in vivo. The extract produced dose-dependent negative in- otropic and chronotropic effects and pressor response on rat blood pressure.

The diuretic action of the herb is attributed to the presence of high percentage of potassium salts.

Dosage: Plant-125-400 mg powder; juice—1-20 ml (CCRAS.)... portulaca oleracea

Linn.

Family: Portulacaceae.

Habitat: Warmer parts of India, cultivated as a vegetable.

Ayurvedic: Laghu-lonikaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Siru Pasalai-keerai.

Action: Similar to P. oleracea. Used in asthma, cough, urinary discharges, inflammations and ulcers. A poultice of the herb is applied to haemorrhoids and erysipelas.... portulaca quadrifida

(Native American) Born at the end of spring

Posalah, Posalla, Posallah... posala

(American) A fancy young woman Poshe, Posha... posh

See “healthy ageing”.... positive ageing

A state of health beyond an asymptomatic state. It usually includes the quality of life and the potential of the human condition. It may also include self-fulfilment, vitality for living and creativity. It is concerned with thriving rather than merely coping. See also “health”.... positive health

See PET SCANNING.... positron-emission tomography (pet)

The technical term used to describe the quite common habit of healthy babies to regurgitate, or bring up, small amounts of the meal they have just taken. Its name derives from possett, an 18th century drink made from porridge and sherry.... possetting

Roxb.

Synonym: P. pilosa Linn.

Family: Portulacaceae.

Habitat: Peninsular India, near sea-coasts.

Ayurvedic: Bichhuu-buuti.

Folk: Jangali Gaajar (Gujarat), Sanjivani (Bihar).

Action: Leaves—an infusion is given internally in dysuria; externally applied to erysipelas. The herb shows diuretic, calculolythic, analgesic and antipyretic properties.

The aerial parts contain diterpe- noids, pilosanone A and B. leucorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, arthritis, cramps, kidney stones, bleeding piles; as a mouth wash in pyrrhoea, gingivitis and sore throat.

Key application: In mild dismenor- rhoeal disorders; as a support for treatment of milder, nonspecific, acute diarrhoea and in light inflammation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. (German Commission E.)

The plant gave anthocyanins—cy- anidin and delphinidin. Aerial parts gave tannins (2-10%). The plant also gave choline, betaine, histidine, an essential oil and vitamin E.

The maximum amounts of tannins occur in the root stock (up to 17.5% on dry basis). The ethanolic and aqueous extract of the herb (1 : 5) contain 0.3 to 0.8% of tannin. The tannin fraction exhibited anti-mutagenic effect.

Potentilla fruticosa HK. (temperate Himalaya) is also used like Silverweed.

The flowers and young shoots contain flavonoids, quercetin, terniflorin, tribuloside and (-)-catechin. The plant also contains stigmasterol, beta-sitos- terol and campesterol; (-)-epicatechol gallate, (±)-catechol, (-)-epicatechol, (-)-epigallocatechol and (-)-epigallo- catechol gallate have been isolated from aerial parts.... portulaca tuberosa

See “transitional care”.... post-acute care

Action taken to prevent CONCEPTION after sexual intercourse. The type of contraception may be hormonal, or it may be an intrauterine device (see below, and under CONTRACEPTION). Pregnancy after intercourse without contraception – or where contraception has failed as a result, for example, of a leaking condom – may be avoided with a course of ‘morning-after’ contraceptive pills. Such preparations usually contain an oestrogen (see OESTROGENS) and a PROGESTOGEN. Two doses should be taken within 72 hours of ‘unprotected’ intercourse. An alternative for the woman is to take a high dose of oestrogen on its own. The aim is to postpone OVULATION and to affect the lining of the UTERUS so that the egg is unable to implant itself.

Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) This, in e?ect, is a form of post-coital contraception. The IUCD is a plastic shape up to 3 cm long around which copper wire is wound, carrying plastic thread from its tail. Colloquially known as a coil, it acts by inhibiting implantation and may also impair migration of sperm. Devices need changing every 3–5 years. Coils have generally replaced the larger, non-copper-bearing ‘inert’ types of IUCD, which caused more complications but did not need changing (so are sometimes still found in situ). They tend to be chosen as a method of contraception (6 per cent) by older, parous women in stable relationships, with a generally low problem rate.

Nevertheless, certain problems do occur with IUCDs, the following being the most common:

They tend to be expelled by the uterus in women who have never conceived, or by a uterus distorted by, say, ?broids.

ECTOPIC PREGNANCY is more likely.

They are associated with pelvic infection and INFERTILITY, following SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDS) – or possibly introduced during insertion.

They often produce heavy, painful periods (see MENSTRUATION), and women at high risk of these problems (e.g. women who are HIV positive [see AIDS/HIV], or with WILSON’S DISEASE or cardiac lesions) should generally be excluded – unless the IUCD is inserted under antibiotic cover.... post-coital contraception

A test for INFERTILITY. A specimen of cervical mucus, taken up to 24 hours after coitus (during the post-ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle), is examined microscopically to assess the motility of the sperms. If motility is above a certain level, then sperms and mucus are not interacting abnormally – thus eliminating one cause of sterility.... post-coital test

The period after an operation, the patient’s condition after operation, or any investigations or treatment during this time.... post-operative

The term applied to anything happening immediately after childbirth: for example, postpartum haemorrhage. (See also PREGNANCY AND LABOUR.)... post-partum

(English) Resembling a bouquet of flowers; form of Josephine, meaning “God will add”

Posey, Posi, Posie, Posee, Pozy, Pozey, Pozi, Pozie, Pozee, Posea, Pozea... posy

Also called an autopsy (and less commonly, necropsy), this is an examination of a body to discover the causes of death. Such an examination is sometimes required by law. An unnatural death; a death occurring in suspicious circumstances; or a death when a doctor feels unable to complete a certi?cate about the cause – all must be reported to the CORONER (in Scotland, to the procurator ?scal). He or she may order an autopsy to be carried out as part of the inquiry into cause of death. Sometimes doctors may request the permission of relatives to perform a post-mortem so that they may discover something of value for the improvement of medical care. Relatives may refuse consent. (See also DEATH, CAUSES OF.)... post-mortem examination

A term introduced to PSYCHIATRY in 1980 after the Vietnam War. It is one of several psychiatric disorders that can develop in people exposed to severe trauma, such as a major physical injury, participation in warfare, assault or rape, or any event in which there is major loss of life or a threat of loss of life. Most people exposed to trauma do not develop psychiatric disorder; however, some develop immediate distress and, occasionally, the reaction can be delayed for many months. Someone with PTSD has regular recurrences of memories or images of the stressful event (‘?ashbacks’), especially when reminded of it. Insomnia, feelings of guilt and isolation, an inability to concentrate and irritability may result. DEPRESSION is very common. Support from friends and family is probably the best management, but those who do not recover quickly can be helped by antidepressants and psychological treatments such as COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY. Over the past few years, PTSD has featured increasingly in compensation litigation.... post-traumatic stress disorder (ptsd)

Drugs that have the ability to dilate ARTERIES and VEINS and are used to relieve pain in ANGINA of the HEART. Nicorandil is the main example.... potassium-channel activators

Image Magic, Healing... potato

The atypical mycobacteria. The commonest PPEM to cause human disease is the Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex. PPEM differ from M. tuberculosis in their source (environmental or zoonotic), rate of growth, temperature of growth and ability to produce pigment on culture. Mostly infect immunologically compromised humans and the disease caused by some species may be clinicallyindistinguishable from true human tuberculosis.... potentially pathogenic environmental mycobacteria (ppem)

Complication of a condition which may be modified or prevented with appropriate treatment.... potentially preventable adverse outcome

Linn.

Family: Rosaceae.

Habitat: Western Himalayas at altitudes of 2,100-4,800 m.

English: Silverweed.

Action: Astringent, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, haemostatic. Used for diarrhoea,... potentilla anserina

D. Don.

Family: Rosaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalaya from Himachal Pradesh to Sikkim and the hills of Assam at 1,200-4,350 m.

Ayurvedic: Bajradanti (Kumaon and Garhwal). Potentilla fulgens HK. is also equated with Bajradanti.

Action: Rootstock—antidiar- rhoeal; used in tooth powders for strengthening gum and teeth.... potentilla arbuscula

Hook.

Family: Rosaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.

Folk: Ratanjot (substitute).

Action: Rootstocks—depurative; ash, mixed with oil, is applied to burns.

Unani: Baadiyaan-kohi, Karafs-e- kohi, Fitraasaaliyun (also equated with Petroselinum crispum Mill. Nym. ex auct. Kew.).

Folk: Komal.

Action: Root and fruit—diuretic, emmenagogue. An infusion of root is given for indigestion and irregular menses.

The roots and umbels yielded cou- marins and their glycosides. Osthol (7-methoxy-8-isop entenyl-coumarin), which occurs in the dried roots up to the extent of 3.6%, has been found to be a potent respiratory and circulatory stimulant in experimental animals. Its respirotonic effect was more marked than that of coramine, leptazol and caffeine.... potentilla nepalensis

Linn.

Family: Araceae.

Habitat: Cultivated as an ornamental. Found in Bihar, North Bengal, Orissa, Western Ghats and Southwards.

Siddha/Tamil: Aanaparuga.

Action: Leaves—anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial. Applied to smallpox pustules. Root—bruised and fried in oil, applied to abscesses.... pothos scandens

(Latin) In mythology, goddess of children’s food and drink Potinah, Potyna, Potena, Poteena, Potiena, Poteina, Poteana... potina

A traditional name often applied to the angular curvature of the spine which results from tuberculous disease. (See SPINE AND SPINAL CORD, DISEASES AND INJURIES OF.) The disease is named after Percivall Pott, an English surgeon (1714–88), who ?rst described the condition.... pott’s disease

A variety of fractures around the ankle, accompanied by a varying degree of dislocation of the ankle. In all cases the ?bula is fractured. Named after Percivall Pott, who suffered from this fracture and was the ?rst to describe it (see BONE, DISORDERS OF), it is often mistaken for a simple sprain of the ankle.... pott’s fracture

A rare chronic in?ammatory disease in the ileal pouch, which remains after a patient has had intestinal resection because of INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD). Metronidazole and oral PROBIOTICS are e?ective treatments.... pouchitis

(See also FOMENTATION.) Soft, moist applications to the surface of the body, generally used hot to soothe pain due to in?ammation and to promote resolution.... poultices

(Maori) A treasured gift... pounamu

Also known as the inguinal ligament, it is the strong ligament lying in the boundary between the anterior abdominal wall and the front of the thigh.... poupart’s ligament

A minimum income level below which a person is officially considered to lack adequate subsistence and to be living in poverty. Poverty statistics are based on definitions developed by individual countries or constituencies.... poverty level / line

The probability that a person with a reactive test has the disease and is not a false reaction.... predictive value positive

See CYANIDE POISONING.... prussic acid poisoning

The base population from which a sample is drawn at the time of initial sampling. The standard against which a population that is being studied can be compared. See “population”.... reference population

The practice of bringing several risks together for insurance purposes in order to balance the consequences of the realization of each individual risk.... risk pooling

This occurs from eating poorly preserved scromboid ?sh such as tuna, mackerel and other members of the mackerel family. In such ?sh, a toxic histamine-like substance is produced by the action of bacteria or histidine, a normal component of ?sh ?esh. This toxin produces nausea, vomiting, headache, upper abdominal pain, di?culty in swallowing, thirst, itching and sometimes URTICARIA. The condition settles as a rule in 12 hours. ANTIHISTAMINE DRUGS sometimes ameliorate the condition.... scrombotoxin poisoning

See POISONS.... self-poisoning

In the United Kingdom this occurs in two main forms. Shell?sh may be the cause of typhoid fever (see ENTERIC FEVER) as a result of their contamination by sewage containing the causative organism. They may also be responsible for what is known as paralytic shell?sh poisoning. This is caused by a toxin, or poison, known as saxotoxin, which is present in certain planktons which, under unusual conditions, multiply rapidly, giving rise to what are known as ‘red tides’. In these circumstances the toxin accumulates in mussels, cockles and scallops which feed by ?ltering plankton. The manifestations of such poisoning are loss of feeling in the hands, tingling of the tongue, weakness of the arms and legs, and di?culty in breathing. There is also growing evidence that some shell?sh poisoning may be due to a virus infection. (See also FOOD POISONING.)... shellfish poisoning

A local or regional access point where older persons receive information, assessment of needs, care planning, referrals to health and social services and, in some systems, authorization of services for home care, community-based care or residential care facilities.... single point of entry

See Batata.... sweet potato

This is a steep head-down tilt so that the patient’s pelvis and legs lie above the heart. It is used to improve access, and to limit blood loss, during surgery to the pelvis. It has been used to treat shocked patients (see SHOCK), but, as the position increases pressure on the DIAPHRAGM and embarrasses breathing, raising the legs by themselves is better.... trendelenberg position

Madras Special. Parts: Coriander 13; Black Pepper 5; Cayenne 1; Cumin 6; Fenugreek 6; Turmeric 6. Mix. Grind. Sift. Store in airtight jar. A rich source of copper. ... curry powder

Linn.f.

Family: Loganiaceae; Strychnaceae.

Habitat: Forests of West Bengal, Central and South India, up to 1,200 m.

English: Clearing Nut tree.

Ayurvedic: Kataka, Katakaphala, Payah-prasaadi, Chakshushya, Nirmali.

Unani: Nirmali.

Siddha/Tamil: Thettran, Thetrankot- tai.

Action: Seed—antidiabetic, antidysenteric, emetic.

Mannogalactan from seeds reduces cholesterol and triglycerides (one-tenth and one-fifth when compared to clofi- brate). Seeds are also applied to abscesses, and venereal sores (internally in gonorrhoea). Fruits—antidiabet- ic; antidysenteric, expectorant. (Pulp is used as a substitute for ipecacuanha.)

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the seed in dysuria, polyuria, urolithiasis, also in epilepsy.

The seeds, leaves and trunk bark gave diabolin (major alkaloid) and acetyldiabolin. Seeds also gavebrucine, strychnine, novacine, icajine, oleanolic acid and its glycoside. Leaves and bark gave isomotiol, stigmasterol, campes- terol and sitosterol. Diabolin exhibits hypotensive activity.

A decoction of seeds is given to treat stammering.

The seeds resemble those of Nux- vomica but are non-poisonous. The ripe seeds are used for clearing muddy water.

Dosage: Seed—3-6 g. (API, Vol. IV.)... strychnos potatorum

Soland. ex Correa.

Synonym: Hibiscus populneus Linn.

Family: Malvaceae.

Habitat: Coastal regions of India and the Andamans; and also grown as an ornamental.

English: Portia tree, Tulip tree, Umbrella tree, False Rosewood.

Ayurvedic: Paarisha, Kapitana, Paarshvpippala, Gardabhaanda.

Siddha: Poovarsu.

Action: Specific for skin diseases. Root, fruit and leaf—used in psoriasis, scabies and other cutaneous diseases. Lupenone, lupeol and alkanes show activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Bark— used for the treatment of haemorrhoids and chronic dysentery. Leaf— anti-inflammatory.

The flowers gave populnetin, herba- cetin, populneol, quercetin and its gly- cosides, kaempferol and its glycosides, rutin, gossypol, beta-sitosterol and its glycosides, nonacosane, lupenone, myricyl alcohol, lupeol and gossypetin.

Presence of thespesin (0.4%) and herbacetin has been reported from fruits. Thespesin has been proved to be optically active gossypol. Gossypol occurring in cotton plant is optically inactive, whereas the gossypol from T. populnea has a high dextro-rotation. It exhibits antifertility, anti-tumour, anti-amoebic and anti-HIV activities.

The ethanolic extract of fruits showed antiviral and anticancer activity in mice.

Dosage: Root—50-125 mg powder. (CCRAS.)... thespesia populnea

Linn.

Synonym: T. sinuatum Ave. Lall.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Native to Europe; grown in Himachal Pradesh and Maharashtra.

English: Salify, Vegetable-Oyster, Purple Goat's Beard, Oyster Plant.

Action: Root—specific in obstructions of the gall in jaundice; antibilious. Also used for treating arteriosclerosis and high blood pressure.

T. porrifolius contain several flavo- noids, including orientin and iso- orientin.

The seeds yield an oil which contains a saturated epoxy acid viz. cis-9, 10-epoxysteric acid and several conjugated dienoic acids.

Cooked flashy roots of T. porrifolius contain sodium 8, potassium 183, calcium 60, magnesium 14, iron 1.2, copper 0.1, phosphorus 53, sulphur 25 and chlorine 46 mg/100 g. A large parts of carbohydrates occur as inulin.... tragopogon porrifolius

Due to a number of causes including kidney disturbance.

Tea. Equal parts: Clivers, Wild Carrot, Yarrow. Mix. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup 2-3 times daily.

Topical. Soak cotton wool pads with Witch Hazel Distilled Extract and place over the closed eyelids for ten minutes, once or more daily. ... eyes – pouches under

No. 10. Equal parts: Lobelia herb, Pleurisy root, Crawley root, Catmint (Catnip), Sage. In powder form. Dose: One heaped teaspoon in cup; fill with boiling water; steep half an hour. 3-5 tablespoons every half hour while fever is on. Dose: small child, quarter of a teaspoon; child, half a teaspoon. For most kinds of fever it is a safe and efficient febrifuge. Never allow fever powder to be boiled. (Dr Melville Keith)

Widely used by the Eclectic School during second half of the 19th century. ... fever powder

For foot-sweat and general discomfort. Mix into 1oz (30g) cornflour a few drops of any of the following oils, according to personal choice: Lavender, Geranium, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Pine. ... foot powder

See pollution.... air pollution

Most antifreeze in the contains ethylene glycol, which is poisonous.

Drinking antifreeze initially produces effects similar to alcohol intoxication, but vomiting, stupor, seizures, and coma may follow; acute kidney failure may occur within 24–36 hours.

Antifreeze poisoning requires immediate medical attention.... antifreeze poisoning

The toxic effects of chemicals present in some defoliant weedkillers. Ingesting chlorates can cause kidney and liver damage, corrosion of the intestine, and methaemoglobinaemia (a chemical change in haemoglobin in the blood). Small doses of chlorates can prove fatal. Symptoms of poisoning include ulceration in the mouth, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea.... chlorate poisoning

Linn.

Family: Aizoaceae.

Habitat: South India, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.

Ayurvedic: Varshaabhu (related species).

Siddha/Tamil: Vellai Sharunnai.

Folk: Bisakhaparaa.

Action: Root—deobstruent; used for asthma, hepatitis and amenorrhoea. The root, leaf and stem gave positive test for alkaloid. The plant is a good source of zinc (1.077 ± 0.188) and copper (0.416 ± 0.057) mg/100 g.

Synonym: T. monogyna Linn.

Family: Aizoaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated fields and wastelands.

English: Horse Purslane.

Ayurvedic: Varshaabhu, Vrshchira, Vishakharparikaa, Shilaatikaa, Shothaghni, Kshdra. Wrongly equated with Shveta-punarnavaa or Rakta-punarnavaa. Varshaabhu and Punarnavaa are two different herbs. T. portulacastrum is a rainy season annual. Rakta-punarnavaa is equated with Boerhavia diffusa, Shveta-punarnavaa with white- flowered species, B. erecta L. (B. punarnava).

Unani: Biskhaparaa.

Siddha: Sharunai.

Folk: Pathari, Bisakhaparaa.

Action: Root—antipyretic, analgesic, spasmolytic, deobstruent, cathartic, anti-inflammatory.

Leaves—diuretic; used in oedema and dropsy. A decoction of the herb is used as an antidote to alcoholic poison.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the dried root in diseases of the liver and spleen, anaemia and oedema.

Ethanolic extract of the aerial parts exhibited hepatoprotective activity in CCl4-induced intoxication in rats. The acetone-insoluble fraction of the extract is responsible for the activity.

The red and white flowers contain an alkaloid trianthemine, also punaranavine. The plant also gave ecdysterone (0.01 g/kg), a potential chemosterilant; nicotinic acid and ascorbic acid. The plant is rich in phosphorus and iron but poor in calcium.

The high content of oxalate affects the assimilation of calcium. Carotene (2.3 mg/100 g) has also been reported.

Trianthema sp. are used as adulterant of the roots of Boerhavia diffusa.

Dosage: Root—2-5 g powder. (API, Vol. IV.)... trianthema portulacastrum

A Harvard study links coffee consumption with cancer of the pancreas. No association has been found between tea-drinkers and cancer. Some authorities claim coffee is not carcinogenic until roasted.

While an internal mechanism slows down the body, caffeine in tea, cola and coffee restores alertness. Caffeine acts by blocking the action of the compound, adenosine – one of the building blocks of DNA which promotes cell energy. Caffeine interferes with natural metabolic processes. In the aged, coffee increases production of uric acid, causing irritation of the kidneys, joint and muscle pains. vCaffeinism is responsible for a wide range of disorders. Increases the heart beat, promotes excessive stomach acid and increases flow of urine. It may give rise to birth defects and should be taken with caution in pregnancy.

Symptoms. Restlessness, nervous agitation, extreme sensitiveness. Intolerance of pain, nervous palpitation, all senses acute.

To antidote. Chamomile tea.

Practitioner. Tincture Nux vom BP: 10 drops to 100ml water. Dose: 1 teaspoon thrice daily. Inhalation: Strong spirits of Camphor.

Diet. Plenty asparagus. ... caffeine poisoning

Eschscholtzia californica (Cham.) French: Globe du soleil. German: Goldmohn. Italian: Escolzia di California. Whole plant. Practitioner use.

Constituents: flavone glycosides.

Action: hypnotic, sedative, nerve relaxant, anodyne.

Uses: Insomnia, migraine, stressful conditions, nervous bowel, anxiety, depression, neuralgia. Combines well with Passion Flower (equal parts) for hyperactivity and sleeplessness.

Preparations: Tea. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; morning and evening. Powder: capsule: 240mg. 2 capsules middle of afternoon; 4 capsules evening one hour after going to bed. (Arkocaps) ... californean poppy

The toxic effects of plant poisons that cause leaves to drop off.

Defoliants are poisonous if swallowed.

Widely used defoliants include sodium chlorate, potassium chlorate, phenoxy herbicides, and paraquat.... defoliant poisoning

The toxic effects that occur as a result of swallowing the cleaning agents in shampoos, laundry powders, and cleaning liquids.... detergent poisoning

A growth in the lining of the nose, usually attached by a small stalk.

Most nasal polyps are noncancerous, but they may need to be removed if they cause nasal obstruction.... nasal polyp

See periodontitis.... pocket, gingival

An abbreviation for poliomyelitis.... polio

Contamination of the environment by poisons, radioactive substances, microorganisms, or other wastes.... pollution

Alternatives.

1. Powders: 3oz Bayberry, 1oz Ginger, half Cinnamon, half an ounce Cloves, quarter of an ounce Cayenne. Sift. Mix. (E.G. Jones MNIMH)

2. 2oz Bayberry, 1oz Ginger, 1oz Pleurisy root, half an ounce Cayenne. Sift. Mix. (Melville C. Keith MD) 3. 2oz Poplar bark, 1oz Balmony herb, half an ounce Goldenseal, half an ounce Cinnamon, three-quarters of an ounce Cayenne. Mix. Sift. “This brought the American physiomedical doctors immortal fame.” (F.H. England MD)

Dose: Quarter to 1 teaspoon in hot water, tea or honey. The powder may be fed into 00 capsules: 2-4 capsules swallowed or taken as above.

Composition powder is a harmless stimulant against winter’s ills, influenza and for the first stages of fevers. Long traditional reputation for stomach and bowel disorders, cramp, collapse, circulatory stasis, fainting, hypothermia, to promote perspiration, to assuage moderate degree pain. In the elderly it was given to rekindle the fires of life when burning low. ... composition powders

Extreme anguish after birth of a child. Mental illness: “sinking into gloom”. Baby blues. Bursting into tears; every small problem seems magnified; agoraphobic tendency. Etiology. Some mothers have a genetic predisposition to the condition. Death of a close relative, stressful pregnancy, redundancy, moving house, or sheer physical and mental exhaustion.

Treatment. Conventional medicine advises strong anti-depressants. Alternatives, until “hormones settle down”: Agnus Castus, Helonias, Milk Thistle. Raspberry leaf tea (tablets/capsules/liquid extracts/tinctures). Special attention to the thyroid gland.

Diet. See: GENERAL DIET.

Supplements. Vitamins: B group, E. Minerals: Calcium, Iodine, Magnesium, Zinc. Tyrosine. Supportives: Astute GP, helpful health visitor, thoughtful husband. ... depression – post-natal

See kidney, polycystic.... polycystic kidney

A group of antibiotic drugs derived from the bacterium BACILLUS POLYMYXA. Polymyxins, which include colistin, are commonly given to treat eye, ear, and skin infections.... polymyxins

Fats (see fats and oils) with with relatively few hydrogen atoms in their chemical structure.

Polyunsaturated fats tend to protect against cardiovascular disease.... polyunsaturated fats

A term for the regurgitation of small quantities of milk by infants after they have been fed.... posseting

Papaver somniferum L. Prescription by a medical practitioner only. Contains morphine alkaloids and codeine. Analgesic, narcotic.

Although medication with opiates is addictive and its abuse ranges from dependence to death, use of crushed poppyheads as a topical poultice for crippling pain, as in terminal disease of chest or abdomen, is worthy of consideration. In an age before modern drugs and anaesthetics this was one of the few solaces available. Even today, there are a few situations for which this deep-acting pain-killer is indicated as, for instance, wounds healed but not without pain.

In spite of the plethora of modern drugs to combat the pain of terminal illness, few are as effective as the greatest anodyne of all time which led the eminent Sydenham to say “. . . if it were expunged from the pharmacopoeia, I would give up the practise of medicine”. ... opium poppy

The harmful effects on the body as a result of an excessive dose of a drug. Accidental poisoning is most common in young children. In adults, it usually occurs in elderly or confused people who are unsure about their treatment and dosage requirements. Accidental poisoning may also occur during drug abuse. Deliberate self-poisoning is usually a cry for help (see suicide; suicide, attempted). The drugs that are most commonly taken in overdose include benzodiazepine drugs and antidepressant drugs. Anyone who has taken a drug overdose and any child who has swallowed tablets that belong to someone else should seek immediate medical advice. It is important to identify the drugs that have been taken. Treatment in hospital may involve washing out the stomach (see lavage, gastric). Charcoal may be given by mouth to reduce the absorption of the drug from the intestine into the bloodstream. To eliminate the drug, urine production may be increased by an intravenous infusion. Antidotes are available only for specific drugs. Such antidotes include naloxone (for morphine) and methionine (for paracetamol).

Drug poisoning may cause drowsiness and breathing difficulty, irregular heartbeat, and, rarely, cardiac arrest, fits, and kidney and liver damage.

Antiarrhythmic drugs are given to treat heartbeat irregularity.

Fits are treated with anticonvulsants.

Blood tests to monitor liver function and careful monitoring of urine output are carried out if the drug is known to damage the liver or kidneys.... drug poisoning

An inherited disorder in which both kidneys are affected by numerous cysts that gradually enlarge until most of the normal kidney tissue is destroyed.

Polycystic kidney disease is distinguished from multiple simple kidney cysts, which occur commonly with age.

There are 2 types of polycystic disease.

The most common usually becomes apparent in middle age, producing abdominal swelling, pain, and blood in the urine.

As the disease progresses, hypertension and kidney failure may result.

The rare type causes enlargement of the kidneys and kidney failure in infants and young children.

There is no effective treatment for preserving kidney function in either type, but symptoms of kidney failure can be treated by dialysis and kidney transplant.... kidney, polycystic

A condition, also called Stein–Leventhal syndrome, that is characterized by oligomenorrhea or amenorrhoea (scanty or absent periods), infertility, hirsutism (excessive hairiness), and obesity. Often, there are multiple ovarian cysts. Most women with polycystic ovaries begin menstruation at a normal age, but after a year or two periods become highly irregular and then cease. Hirsutism and obesity occur in about 50 per cent of cases.

The condition results from an imbalance of two gonadotrophin hormones: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). This hormonal imbalance is associated with raised levels of testosterone and oestrogen.

Treatments include clomifene and oral contraceptives. Polycystic ovaries are often associated with high oestrogen levels in the body, which increase the risk of endometrial cancer (see uterus, cancer of); treatment with progesterone may be recommended for this problem. ... ovary, polycystic

Several species of plant, including foxglove, holly, deadly nightshade, and laburnum, are poisonous. Nettles, hogweed, poison ivy, and primula cause skin reactions, including rash and itching, on contact. Young children are the most commonly affected. Symptoms of poisoning vary according to the plant but may include abdominal pain, vomiting, flushing, breathing difficulties, delirium, and coma and require urgent medical advice. Skin reactions can be treated by application of alcohol or calamine lotion; corticosteroid drugs may be prescribed for severe reactions. Poisoning usually requires gastric lavage. Fatal poisoning is rare. (See also mushroom poisoning.)... plants, poisonous

Burning pain caused by nerve irritation that occurs at the site of a previous attack of herpes zoster (shingles).

See neuralgia.... postherpetic neuralgia

A condition in which a pregnancy persists for longer than 42 weeks; the average length of a normal pregnancy is 40 weeks (see gestation). Postmaturity may be associated with a family tendency to prolonged pregnancy, or it may be a sign that the baby is unable to descend properly (see engagement). The risk of fetal death increases after 42 weeks because the placenta becomes less efficient. Postmature infants tend to have dry skin and may be more susceptible to infection.... postmaturity

An alternative term for an autopsy.... postmortem examination

Another name for Dressler’s syndrome.... postmyocardial infarction syndrome

A watery or sticky discharge from the back of the nose into the nasopharynx.

The fluid may cause a cough, hoarseness, or the feeling of a foreign body.

The usual cause is rhinitis.... postnasal drip

Poisons may be swallowed, inhaled, absorbed through skin, or injected under the skin (as with an insect sting).

Poisons may also originate in the body, as when bacteria produce endotoxins, or when metabolic disorders produce poisonous substances or allow them to build up.

Poisoning may be acute (a large amount of poison over a short time) or chronic (gradual accumulation of poison that is not eliminated quickly).

Unintentional poisoning occurs mainly in young children.

Adults may be poisoned by mistaking the dosage of a prescribed drug (see drug poisoning), by taking very high doses of vitamin or mineral supplements, by exposure to poisonous substances in industry, or by drug abuse.

Poisoning may also be a deliberate attempt to commit suicide.... poisoning

A rare, inherited disorder, also known as polyposis coli, in which many polyps are present throughout the gut, but mainly in the colon. If not treated, cancer of the colon (see colon, cancer of) is almost certain to develop. The polyps may appear from age 10. They may cause bleeding and diarrhoea; however, there are often no symptoms until cancer has developed. The polyps are detected by colonoscopy.

Since there is a 50 per cent chance that children of an affected person will inherit the disease, medical surveillance is necessary from around the age of 12.

Individual polyps may be cauterized (see cauterization).

The high risk of developing cancer often means that a colectomy and an ileostomy are performed.... polyposis, familial

Care of the mother after childbirth until about 6 weeks later.... postnatal care

See postnatal depression.... postpartum depression

The relative position of different parts of the body at rest or during movement.

Good posture consists of balancing the body weight around the body’s centre of gravity in the lower spine and pelvis.

Maintaining good posture helps prevent neck pain and back pain.... posture

A substance used to relieve discomfort in mild urinary tract infections by making the urine less acid.... potassium citrate

The ability of a man to perform sexual intercourse; or the ability of a drug to cause desired effects.... potency

A combined fracture and dislocation of the ankle caused by excessive or violent twisting. The fibula breaks just above the ankle; in addition, the tibia breaks or the ligaments tear, resulting in dislocation.... pott’s fracture

Places on the body where arteries lie near the surface and pressure can be applied by hand to limit severe arterial bleeding (in which bright red blood is pumped out in regular spurts with the heartbeat). Major pressure points of the body include the brachial pressure point in the middle part of the upper arm and the carotid pressure point at the side of the neck, below the jaw.... pressure points

See food poisoning.... shellfish poisoning

Strychnine is a poisonous chemical found in the seeds of Strychnos species (tropical trees and shrubs). Its main use is as an ingredient in some rodent poisons; most cases of strychnine poisoning occur in children who accidentally eat such poisons.

Symptoms begin soon after ingestion and include restlessness, stiffness of the face and neck, increased sensitivity of hearing, taste, and smell, and photosensitivity, followed by alternating episodes of seizures and floppiness. Death may occur from respiratory arrest.

The victim is given intravenous injections of a tranquillizer or a barbiturate, with a muscle-relaxant drug if needed.

Breathing may be maintained by a ventilator.

With prompt treatment, recovery usually occurs in about 24 hours.... strychnine poisoning

See mushroom poisoning.... toadstool poisoning

an artificial sweetener (E950) 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners to produce a superior flavour. Not metabolized by the body, it is suitable for use in diabetic foods and can be used in cooking.... acesulfame potassium

the change in voltage that occurs across the membrane of a nerve or muscle cell when a *nerve impulse is triggered. It is due to the passage of charged particles across the membrane (see depolarization) and is an observable manifestation of the passage of an impulse.... action potential

the internationally accepted body position for anatomical descriptions, such that any part of the body can be related to any other part of it. A person in the anatomical position stands erect, the arms hanging by the sides with the palms facing frontwards and the legs and feet together with the toes pointing forwards (see illustration overleaf).... anatomical position

(BPPV) a common cause of vertigo in which the patient complains of brief episodes of rotatory vertigo precipitated by sudden head movements. It is thought to be due to microscopic debris derived from the *otoliths of the utricle and displaced into one of the semicircular canals, most commonly the posterior semicircular canal. The debris is most commonly thought to be free in the canal (canalithiasis; see canalith) but can be attached to the *cupula (cupulolithiasis; see cupulolith). Diagnosis is by performing a *Dix–Hallpike test. Treatment is with a predetermined set of head movements to move the debris from the semicircular canal (see Epley particle repositioning manoeuvre; Semont liberatory manoeuvre; Brandt-Daroff exercises). Surgery is occasionally used to occlude the relevant semicircular canal, cut the *singular nerve or vestibular nerves, or perform a *labyrinthectomy. Drugs are generally ineffective in the treatment of this condition.... benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

see BiPAP.... bi-level positive airways pressure

see pharyngeal pouch.... branchial pouch

acute paralysis, dysphagia, and dysarthria resulting from damage to the myelin sheaths of nerve cells in the brainstem. It occurs most commonly as a complication of rapid correction of severe hyponatraemia (low serum sodium).... central pontine myelinolysis

see hygrometer.... dew-point hygrometer

any one of a class of antiviral drugs that inhibit the action of DNA polymerase enzymes, which are used by viruses to form their own DNA. These drugs prevent, to a varying degree, the reproduction of viruses. They include *aciclovir, *foscarnet, *ganciclovir, and *valaciclovir.... dna polymerase inhibitor

see Churg–Strauss syndrome.

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) see omega-3 fatty acids.... eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis

(FAP) see polyposis.... familial adenomatous polyposis

a fibrous overgrowth covered by epithelium, often occurring inside the mouth in response to chronic irritation (usually following accidental biting). It is sometimes called a fibrous *epulis.... fibroepithelial polyp

(GPA) an autoimmune disease, formerly known as Wegener’s granulomatosis, predominantly affecting the sinuses, lungs, and kidneys, and characterized by blood-vessel inflammation and the formation of necrotizing *granulomas. It is associated with the presence of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (*ANCA). Untreated the disease is usually fatal, but it can be controlled with corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, or rituximab.... granulomatosis with polyangiitis

a saclike dilatation of the gall-bladder wall near its outlet; it is a common site for finding *gallstones. [R. Hartmann (1831–93), German anatomist]... hartmann’s pouch

(perineal pouch) a reservoir made from loops of ileum to replace a surgically removed rectum, avoiding the need for a permanent *ileostomy. This is commonly constructed in patients who have had their colon surgically removed for various disorders (e.g. ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis).... ileal pouch

see polyp.... juvenile polyp

the buttocks-up position assumed by patients undergoing anorectal examinations, now commonly performed in the left lateral position. It is useful for helping patients dispel excess flatus following colonoscopy.... knee-elbow position

the point on the abdomen that overlies the anatomical position of the appendix and is the site of maximum tenderness in acute appendicitis. It lies one-third of the way along a line drawn from the anterior superior iliac spine (the projecting part of the hipbone) to the umbilicus. [C. McBurney (1845–1913), US surgeon]... mcburney’s point

(MPA) an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of small blood vessels, leading to reduced kidney function and breathlessness. It is associated with the presence of antinuclear cytoplasmic antibodies (*ANCA) and can be treated with corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, or rituximab.... microscopic polyangiitis

an entry site for minimal-access surgery (see laparoscopy), especially when there is an increased risk from previous abdominal surgery. It is located in the left upper quadrant (see abdomen), 3 cm below the middle of the left costal margin. See Veress needle.... palmer’s point

a hormone released from the D cells of the *islets of Langerhans of the pancreas in response to protein in the small intestine. Its actions are to inhibit pancreatic bicarbonate and protein enzyme secretion and to relax the gall bladder. It belongs to a family of similar hormones that have actions on appetite and food metabolism.... pancreatic polypeptide

a space between the gingival tissues and tooth occurring in periodontitis. See periodontal disease.... periodontal pocket

n. a small pus-filled eruption on the skin characteristic of *chickenpox and *smallpox rashes. See also pustule.... pock

n. (in dentistry) see periodontal pocket.... pocket

a compressible and easily carried mask, which can be expanded and fitted over the mouth and nose of a nonbreathing patient in order to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation through a small valve without contact between the mouth of the rescuer and that of the patient.... pocket resuscitation mask

(internal podalic version) a procedure in which the position of a fetus in the uterus is altered so that its feet will emerge first at birth. It is used mainly to deliver a second twin that is presenting transversely or obliquely. See also cephalic version.... podalic version

n. an epithelial cell in the *glomerulus that spreads over the capillary basement membrane and has branching tentacle-like processes that interdigitate with adjacent cells. The podocytes leave gaps or thin filtration slits. The slits are covered by slit diaphragms, which are composed of a number of cell-surface proteins including *nephrin, podocalyxin, and P-cadherin, which ensure that large molecules, such as albumin and gammaglobulin, are not filtered. Podocytes are damaged in *minimal change nephropathy and a major target of injury in *HIVAN.... podocyte

n. see pompholyx.... podopompholyx

a syndrome, mostly reported in Japanese males, consisting of polyneuropathy (see peripheral neuropathy), organomegaly, endocrine failure, M protein (immunoglobulins) in the plasma, and skin changes, such as thickening, hirsutism, or excess sweating. Each of the components occurs with varying consistency. The cause is not known but it is not thought to be autoimmune in nature.... poems syndrome

combining form denoting formation; production. Example: haemopoiesis (of blood cells).... poiesis

combining form denoting variation; irregularity.... poikilo

n. an abnormally shaped red blood cell (*erythrocyte). Poikilocytes may be classified into a variety of types on the basis of their shape; for example elliptocytes (ellipsoid) and schistocytes (semilunar). See also poikilocytosis.... poikilocyte

n. a combination of pale and darkened skin with telangiectasia (see telangiectasis) and atrophy (wrinkled thin skin). This may be a sign of *cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.... poikiloderma

adj. cold-blooded: being unable to regulate the body temperature, which fluctuates according to that of the surroundings. Reptiles and amphibians are cold-blooded. Compare homoiothermic. —poikilothermy n.... poikilothermic

n. a procedure in massage in which the therapist’s fingers are pressed, fingertip first, deep into the patient’s skin. This is done to manipulate underlying structures and break up adhesions that may have formed following injury.... pointillage

one of the small cells produced during the formation of an ovum from an *oocyte that does not develop into a functional egg cell.... polar body

n. (in anatomy) the extremity of the axis of the body, an organ, or a cell.... pole

(polio-) combining form denoting the grey matter of the nervous system.... poli

see plantar fasciitis.... policeman’s heel

n. a virus infection of the brain causing particular damage to the *grey matter of the cerebral hemispheres and the brainstem. The term is now usually restricted to infections of the brain by the poliomyelitis virus.... polioencephalitis

n. any virus infection of the central nervous system affecting the grey matter of the brain and spinal cord. *Rabies is the outstanding example.... polioencephalomyelitis

n. one of a small group of RNA-containing viruses causing *poliomyelitis. They are included within the *picornavirus group.... poliovirus

n. a more precise term than *hay fever for an allergy due to the pollen of grasses, trees, or shrubs.... pollinosis

n. see health centre.... polyclinic

n. a rare congenital abnormality of the eye in which there are one or more holes in the iris in addition to the pupil.... polycoria

n. see polycystic disease of the kidneys.... polycystin

(polycythaemia rubra vera, Vaquez–Osler disease) a disease in which the number of red cells in the blood is greatly increased (see also polycythaemia). There is often also an increase in the numbers of white blood cells and platelets. Symptoms include headache, thromboses, *cyanosis, *plethora, and itching. Polycythaemia vera may be treated by blood-letting, but more severe cases may need to be treated with cytotoxic drugs. The cause of the disease is not known.... polycythaemia vera

n. see hyperdactylism.... polydactylism

n. see pleomastia.... polymastia

n. a substance formed by the linkage of a large number of smaller molecules known as monomers. An example of a monomer is glucose, whose molecules link together to form glycogen, a polymer. Polymers may have molecular weights from a few thousands to many millions. Polymers made up of a single type of monomer are known as homopolymers; those of two or more monomers as heteropolymers.... polymer

either of two inherited disorders in which renal cysts are a common feature. Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) occurs in about 1 in 20,000 live births. It is due to a single mutation on chromosome 6 for the gene encoding the protein fibrocystin. The majority of cases are diagnosed before or at birth. The most severely affected fetuses have enlarged kidneys and *oligohydramnios due to poor fetal renal output. These fetuses develop the ‘Potter’ phenotype with characteristic facies, pulmonary hypoplasia, and deformities of the spine and limbs. Those surviving the neonatal period (50–70%) develop varying degrees of renal impairment but this may not proceed to end-stage until early adulthood.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) affects between 1 in 400 and 1 in 1000 individuals and is one of the most common hereditary diseases. Two types have been defined. ADPKD 1 is the commonest and responsible for about 85% of cases. It is due to a mutation in the PKD1 gene on chromosome 16, which encodes polycystin 1, an *ion-channel-regulating protein. ADPKD2 is due to a mutation in the PKD2 gene on chromosome 4, which encodes the protein polycystin 2, a calcium-release channel. ADPKD2 tends to be a milder disease with later presentation.

ADPKD is a multisystem disorder that is also associated with cyst formation in other organs (particularly the liver), cardiovascular disorders, and colonic diverticular disease. Renal disease presents in early adult life with haematuria, loin pain, urinary tract infection, hypertension, renal stone disease, or the finding of a mass in the abdomen. Other cases are identified by family contact tracing; the findings of a few cysts on renal ultrasonography in a young adult with a family history of ADPKD is highly suggestive of the disease. Renal disease is progressive and about 50% of patients will have reached end-stage by the time they enter their seventh decade. The progress of the renal failure can be slowed by good blood pressure control. In the UK, patients with ADPKD are responsible for 5–10% of the total on renal replacement therapy.

There are a number of separate rare autosomal dominant conditions other than ADPKD1 and ADPKD 2 that can present with polycystic kidneys. These include *von Hippel-Lindau disease and *tuberous sclerosis.... polycystic disease of the kidneys

(PEP) intensely itchy papules and weals on the abdomen (except the umbilicus), upper limbs, and buttocks, usually within the *striae gravidarum; it is also known as PUPPP (pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy). It occurs in 1 in 250 first pregnancies late in the third trimester. This condition is harmless to mother and baby, but can be very annoying. It lasts an average of 6 weeks and resolves spontaneously 1–2 weeks after delivery. The most severe itching normally lasts for no more than a week.... polymorphic eruption of pregnancy

see photodermatosis.... polymorphous light eruption

an *antibiotic used to treat severe infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Formulated with other drugs, it is administered for ear, eye, and skin infections.... polymyxin b

n. see peripheral neuropathy.... polyneuropathy

n. a long chain of linked *nucleotides, of which molecules of DNA and RNA are made.... polynucleotide

n. the sensation of multiple images of one object. It is sometimes experienced by people with early cataract. See also diplopia.... polyopia

n. a congenital abnormality resulting in more than two testes.... polyorchidism

n. excessive eating.... polyphagia

adj. describing a number of individuals, species, etc., that have evolved from more than one ancestral group. Compare monophyletic.... polyphyletic

adj. describing cells, tissues, or individuals in which there are three or more complete sets of chromosomes. Compare diploid; haploid. —polyploidy n.... polyploid

adj. having the appearance of a *polyp.... polypoid

(polyradiculopathy) n. any disorder of the peripheral nerves (see neuropathy) in which the brunt of the disease falls on the nerve roots where they emerge from the spinal cord. An abnormal allergic response in the nerve fibres is thought to be one cause of this condition; the *Guillain-Barré syndrome is an example. Other causes include infections (such as syphilis), herpesviruses, and tumours (such as lymphoma or other forms of cancer).... polyradiculitis

n. see polysome.... polyribosome

n. inflammation of the membranes that line the chest, abdomen, and joints, with accumulation of fluid in the cavities. Commonly the condition is inherited and intermittent and is termed familial Mediterranean fever. If complicated by infiltration of major organs by a glycoprotein (see amyloidosis) the disease usually proves fatal. Regular administration of colchicine will prevent the attacks in 95% of patients.... polyserositis

n. the endoscopic or surgical removal of a *polyp. The technique used depends upon the site and size of the polyp. Endoscopically, polyps can be removed by various methods. A hot biopsy involves coagulation of a small polyp using a diathermy current passed through biopsy forceps, which obtains a sample for analysis at the same time. Cold biopsy involves removal of a polyp using forceps alone, thereby decreasing the perforation risk. Snare polypectomy uses a wire loop (snare) to cut through the base of the polyp. This is performed with or without a diathermy current (hot snare vs. cold snare); the current reduces the risk of bleeding by coagulating local blood vessels as the snare cuts through the polyp. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) involves lifting a flat polyp by injecting a hypertonic solution into the submucosa beneath the polyp followed by snare polypectomy with diathermy. Nasal polyps may be removed using *endoscopic sinus surgery techniques, sometimes utilizing a *microdebrider.... polypectomy

(polyribosome) n. a structure that occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and consists of a group of *ribosomes linked together by *messenger RNA molecules: formed during protein synthesis.... polysome

n. a record of measurements of various bodily parameters during sleep. It is used in the diagnosis of sleep disorders, such as *obstructive sleep apnoea.... polysomnograph

n. 1. excessive formation of semen. 2. see polyspermy.... polyspermia

(polyspermia) n. fertilization of a single ovum by more than one spermatozoon: the development is abnormal and the embryo dies.... polyspermy

n. a congenital excess of nipples (see pleomastia).... polythelia

n. a derivative of *thalidomide with similar properties. It is taken in the treatment of relapsed or refractory myeloma. The main side-effects include lethargy, low blood counts, and thromboembolism; this drug should not be used in women who are pregnant or capable of becoming pregnant.... pomalidomide

n. (in dentistry) see bridge.... pontic

n. a flat triangular muscle at the back of the knee joint, between the femur and tibia, that helps to flex the knee. —popliteal adj.... popliteus

n. (in dentistry) a ceramic material that is used to construct tooth-coloured crowns, inlays, or veneers.... porcelain

n. an abnormal communication between the lateral *ventricle and the surface of the brain. This is usually a consequence of brain injury or cerebrovascular disease; uncommonly it may be a developmental defect, when it would most likely affect both lateral ventricles.... porencephaly

see photodynamic therapy.... porfimer sodium

n. a rare infestation of the nasal cavities, windpipe, lungs, liver, or spleen by the nymphs of the parasitic arthropod *Porocephalus. Humans become infected on consumption of water or uncooked vegetables contaminated with the parasite’s eggs. There may be some abdominal pain while the parasite is in the gut but in many cases there are no symptoms.... porocephaliasis

n. a genus of wormlike arthropods occurring mainly in tropical Africa and India. The legless adults are parasites in the lungs of snakes. The eggs, which are ejected with the snake’s bronchial secretions, may be accidentally swallowed by humans. The larva bores through the gut wall and usually migrates to the liver, where it develops into a nymph (see porocephaliasis).... porocephalus

n. a complex nitrogen-containing ring structure and parent compound of the *porphyrins.... porphin

n. a pigment that appears in the urine of individuals with acute *porphyria, causing it to darken if left standing.... porphobilinogen

n. one of a number of pigments derived from *porphin, which are widely distributed in living things. All porphyrins form chelates with iron, magnesium, zinc, nickel, copper, and cobalt. These chelates are constituents of *haemoglobin, *myoglobin, the *cytochromes, and chlorophyll, and are thus important in many oxidation/reduction reactions in all living organisms. See also protoporphyrin IX.... porphyrin

n. the presence in the urine of breakdown products of the red blood pigment haemoglobin (porphyrins), sometimes causing discoloration. See porphyria; porphobilinogen.... porphyrinuria

n. the aperture in an organ through which its associated vessels pass. Such an opening occurs in the liver (porta hepatis).... porta

adj. (in radiography) referring to images obtained by the bedside of the patient using light-weight equipment, rather than in the radiography department. The quality of portable radiographs is usually limited due to compromises in the equipment design to keep it light and movable, which is necessary when patients cannot easily be moved (for example, on intensive therapy units).... portable

(portacaval shunt) 1. a surgical technique in which the hepatic portal vein is joined to the inferior vena cava. Blood draining from the abdominal viscera is thus diverted past the liver. It is no longer widely used in the treatment of *portal hypertension. 2. any of the natural communications between the branches of the hepatic portal vein in the liver and the inferior vena cava.... portacaval anastomosis

adj. 1. relating to the portal vein or system. 2. relating to a porta.... portal

an electronic image taken during radiotherapy treatment to verify the position of radiation beams.... portal image

adj. see normative.... positive

see noninvasive ventilation.... positive-pressure ventilation

(in psychiatry) symptoms of schizophrenia characterized by a distortion of some aspect of functioning, such as delusions, hallucinations, or disordered speech. Compare negative symptoms.... positive symptoms

n. an electrically charged particle released in some radioactive decays, notably fluorine-18 or nitrogen-13, that has the same mass as an electron but opposite charge. It has a very short lifetime as it quickly reacts with an electron (annihilation) to produce a pair of *gamma rays, which are emitted in diametrically opposite directions. The energy of each gamma ray is always 511 keV.... positron

n. the science of the dosage of medicines.... posology

n. a small amount of milk that is regurgitated, usually with some wind, by many babies after feeding.... posset

n. a device that enables severely paralysed patients to use typewriters, adding machines, telephones, and a wide variety of other machines. Modern Possums are operated by micro-switches that require only the slightest movement in any limb. The original device worked by blowing and sucking a mouthpiece. The name derives from Patient-Operated Selector Mechanism (POSM).... possum

physiological and operative severity score for the enumeration of morbidity and mortality: a tool used by anaesthetists in the perioperative period to determine the risks associated with surgery in an individual patient. This can be used to guide such decisions as the appropriateness of surgery and the requirement for intensive care postoperatively.... possum scoring

adj. 1. situated behind any centre. 2. situated behind the central fissure of the brain.... postcentral

adj. occurring after eating.... postcibal

genital-tract bleeding occurring after sexual intercourse. This is an important symptom and may be caused by sexually transmitted infections, vaginal candidiasis, atrophic *vaginitis, cervical *ectropion, cervical polyp, or cervical cancer.... postcoital bleeding

a test used in the investigation of infertility. A specimen of cervical mucus, taken 6–24 hours after coitus, is examined under a microscope. The appearance of 10 or more progressively motile spermatozoa per high-power field in the specimen indicates that there is no abnormal reaction between spermatozoa and mucus. The test should be undertaken in the postovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle.... postcoital test

progressive clouding of the posterior lens capsule due to *Elschnig pearls and proliferation of lens fibres following extracapsular *cataract extraction by *phacoemulsification. This can lead to clouding of vision and is treated with YAG laser *capsulotomy.... posterior capsular opacification

combining form denoting posterior. Example: posterolateral (behind and at the side of).... postero

(PA) adj. from the back to the front. In radiography it refers to the direction of the X-ray beam (i.e. from the back to the front of the patient); thus a PA radiograph is taken with the X-ray film in front of the patient. Normally, a chest radiograph will be PA: since the heart is in the front of the chest, its size can be most accurately assessed if the X-ray film is in front of the chest. Compare decubitus; anteroposterior.... posteroanterior

adj. describing a neuron in a nerve pathway that starts at a ganglion and ends at the muscle or gland that it supplies. In the sympathetic nervous system, postganglionic fibres are *adrenergic, unlike those in the parasympathetic system, which are *cholinergic. Compare preganglionic.... postganglionic

see dumping syndrome.... postgastrectomy syndrome

n. inflammation of the foreskin. This usually occurs in association with inflammation of the glans penis (balanitis; see balanoposthitis). Pain, redness, and swelling of the foreskin occurs due to bacterial infection. Treatment is by antibiotic administration, and subsequent *circumcision prevents further attacks.... posthitis

1. delivery of a child by *Caesarean section after the mother’s death. 2. birth of a child after the father’s death.... posthumous birth

the recovery phase that follows immediately after an epileptic seizure (see epilepsy). It may last anything from a few minutes to several hours and is typically characterized by drowsiness, confusion, loss of memory, and feelings of sadness or anxiety. See ictus.... postictal phase

adj. describing a baby born after 42 weeks of gestation (calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period). Such a birth can be associated with maternal diabetes or with *anencephaly in the fetus. —postmaturity n.... postmature

(PMB) bleeding from the female genital tract occurring more than 12 months after the last menstrual period. Atrophic *vaginitis is a common cause. Endometrial cancer occurs in up to 10% of cases, and PMB may also be a marker of ovarian, cervical, or more rarely vaginal or vulval cancer.... postmenopausal bleeding

n. the period of a woman’s life after the *menopause, i.e. following 12 months after her last menstrual period. The term ‘menopause’ is often used in reference to the postmenopausal period.... postmenopause

a *lower urinary tract symptom in which a dribble occurs after voiding has been completed, often after leaving the toilet. It is quite common in men but is not caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia.... postmicturition dribble

Latin: after death. See autopsy.... post mortem

see nasopharynx.... postnasal space

adj. following surgery: referring to the condition of a patient or to the treatment given at this time.... postoperative

see baby blues.... postpartum blues

see sepsis.... postpartum sepsis

insidious numbness in muscles that develops 15–20 years after an attack of *poliomyelitis; the muscles may or may not have been previously affected. It may be caused by loss of nerve cells that have been under greater strain than normal as a result of the polio; there is no evidence of reactivation of the poliovirus. The syndrome also includes other symptoms, such as fatigue and pain, which may be due to secondary mechanical causes.... post-polio syndrome

adj. occurring after eating.... postprandial

n. (in radiology) the electronic manipulation of digitally acquired images (see digitization) following an examination in order to improve diagnostic accuracy or to improve and optimize visualization.... post-processing

medical care given to an individual who has survived a *cardiac arrest. This will usually consist of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (see lead2), a chest X-ray, a number of venous and arterial blood tests, and transfer to a high-dependency or coronary care unit for further intensive monitoring and drug administration.... postresuscitation care

a pregnancy that has gone beyond 42 weeks gestation or 294 days from the first date of the last menstrual period.... post-term pregnancy

(antigravity muscles) muscles (principally extensors) that serve to maintain the upright posture of the body against the force of gravity.... postural muscles

n. (in psychiatry) voluntarily assuming and maintaining bizarre or inappropriate postures. It is a feature of *catatonia.... posturing

see CFS/ME/PVF.... postviral fatigue syndrome

any one of a class of drugs that enhance the movement of potassium ions through the *ion channels in cell membranes. In the case of smooth muscle cells, such as those in the walls of arteries, their sensitivity to the normal stimuli to contract is reduced. The result is relaxation of the muscle fibres and widening of the arteries. Potassium-channel activators are used for improving the blood supply to the heart muscle in angina pectoris. Possible side-effects include headache, flushing, vomiting, dizziness, and weakness. A currently available member of the class is nicorandil.... potassium-channel activator

a salt of potassium used to prevent and treat potassium deficiency, especially during treatment with digoxin or anti-arrhythmic drugs. Some irritation in the digestive system may occur. Severe potassium deficiency may be treated by intravenous infusion.... potassium chloride

a congenital condition characterized by absence of kidneys, resulting in decreased amniotic fluid (see oligohydramnios) and compression of the fetus. Babies have poorly developed lungs, a characteristic wrinkled and flattened facial appearance, and leg deformities and do not usually survive. [E. L. Potter (20th century), US pathologist]... potter syndrome

*tuberculosis of the backbone. Untreated, it can lead to a hunchback deformity. Treatment is antituberculous chemotherapy and occasionally surgery. [P. Pott (1714–88), British surgeon]... pott’s disease

n. 1. (in anatomy) a small sac-like structure, especially occurring as an outgrowth of a larger structure. The pouch of Douglas is a pouch of peritoneum occupying the space between the rectum and uterus. 2. (in surgery) a sac created from a loop of intestine and used to replace a section of rectum that has been surgically removed, for example in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (see ileal pouch), or to replace the bladder after *cystectomy.... pouch

see inguinal ligament. [F. Poupart (1661–1708), French anatomist]... poupart’s ligament

brief hesitant speech using few words (often monosyllables) and lacking spontaneity. It can be observed in patients with schizophrenia, dementia, and depression.... poverty of speech

n. one of a group of large DNA-containing viruses including those that cause *smallpox (variola) and *cowpox (vaccinia) in humans, and pox and tumours in animals.... poxvirus

a point at which an artery lies over a bone on which it may be compressed by finger pressure, to arrest haemorrhage beyond. For example, the femoral artery may be compressed against the pelvic bone in the groin.... pressure point

see polydipsia.... psychogenic polydipsia

see craniopharyngioma.... rathke’s pouch

the left-sided knees-up position commonly assumed by patients undergoing examinations of the anus and rectum or vagina. [J. M. Sims (1813–83), US gynaecologist]... sims’s position

see cystectomy.... studer pouch

a very dangerous form of *ventricular tachycardia characterized by a sinusoidal (twisting) pattern on the electrocardiogram due to a constantly shifting cardiac electrical vector (hence the French term, meaning ‘twisting of points’). It is usually a side-effect of medication but may also occur in patients with severe deficiency of potassium or magnesium or inherited abnormalities of the cardiac electrical system. See long QT syndrome.... torsades de pointes

a special operating-table posture for patients undergoing surgery of the pelvis or for patients suffering from shock to reduce blood loss in operations on the legs. The patient is laid on his or her back with the pelvis higher than the head, inclined at an angle of about 45°. [F. Trendelenburg (1844–1924), German surgeon]... trendelenburg position

see BiPAP.... variable positive airways pressure

(VEMP) a test used to measure the response of the *saccule. It is used in the diagnosis of *superior canal dehiscence syndrome, *Ménière’s disease, and other disorders of the inner ear.... vestibular evoked myogenic potential test

see pharyngeal pouch.... visceral pouch

a prepared perfume material obtained by the enfleurage process.... pomade