Letter: p

Characteristic of ingesting microorganisms, foreign debris, possessed by macrophages and neutrophils (white blood cells). (Pac Man)

An important body defense mechanism against infection and foreign particulates; the engulfing and usually the destruction of particulate matter by phagocytes and leukocytes such as polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMLs).

An acute streptococcal infection of the throat that causes fever, chronic pain, difficulty swallowing, and inflammation of the tonsils and pharynx; also known as strep throat.

A musculomembranous tube extending from the base of the skull to the level of the sixth cervical vertebra, where it becomes continuous with the esophagus. It consists of an upper (nasopharynx), middle (oropharynx), and lower (laryngopharynx) portion. The pharynx communicates with the posterior nares (nose cavities), Eustachian tube, mouth, esophagus, and larynx. It provides a passageway for air from the nasal cavity to the larynx and for food from the mouth to the esophagus. It also acts as a resonating cavity.

Carbolic acid compounds used for disinfection. Good activity against Gram (+ ) and fungi; fair activity against Gram (-) bacteria and enveloped viruses; poor or no activity against non-enveloped viruses, Mycobacteria and bacterial spores. Leaves a residue that is difficult to rinse off as phenols are not water soluble. Cannot be used in neonatal or pediatric ICU or have any infant contact due to toxic residue. No food contact. Corrosive to some rubber and plastics. Efficacy speed: Medium

Inflammation of the walls of a vein caused by physical injury, chemical irritation or infection. May cause or be caused by a blood clot (thrombophlebitis)

A physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Substance dependence in which there is evidence of tolerance, withdrawal, or both.

The total amount of wasted ventilation in the lungs, composed of ventilation of (1) the anatomical dead space and (2) the alveolar dead space (i.e., excessive ventilation of alveoli that are not adequately perfused).

Inner most layer of the meninges. Specifically, the three membranes (from outside inward, dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. SEE meninges.