Common medical terms explained in plain language — so your doctor's notes and lab reports make more sense.
A condition that comes on suddenly and lasts a short time (days to weeks) — the opposite of chronic.
A condition that lasts a long time (usually 3+ months) or is ongoing, like diabetes or hypertension.
Not cancerous; a growth that doesn't spread to other parts of the body.
Cancerous; a growth that can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
A medical way of saying the exact cause is unknown.
The likely course or outcome of a disease — what to expect going forward.
The cause or origin of a disease.
Having a condition but showing no symptoms.
Having two or more health conditions at the same time (e.g. diabetes and hypertension together).
A specific reason a treatment or medicine should NOT be used for a particular person.
Treatment given to prevent a disease before it happens, rather than to treat it after.
A period where disease symptoms are reduced or absent, though the condition may not be fully cured.
When symptoms of a disease return after a period of improvement.
Affecting the whole body, rather than just one organ or area.
The body's natural response to injury or infection — causes redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Removing a small sample of tissue to examine it under a microscope, usually to check for cancer.
Passed down genetically from parent to child.
Present from birth, whether or not it's genetic.
Care focused on comfort and quality of life, rather than curing the underlying disease.
Basic body measurements — temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and breathing rate.
This glossary covers general terms only. If a specific word in your report isn't here or you're unsure what it means for your situation, ask your doctor directly.