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SORL1 gene

A gene that controls distribution of a substance called amyloid precursor protein. Abnormal variations of this gene increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

SPD

Symphisis Pubis Dysfunction

specific gravity of urine

A measure of the concentration of urine, used to assess kidney function.

SPECT

An abbreviation for single photon emission computerised tomography, an imaging technique that uses a radioactive tracer and a gamma camera.

speculum

An instrument used gently to widen an opening, so that the inside can be more easily seen.

speech and language therapist

A healthcare professional who aims to treat problems with eating, drinking and speech.

speech and language therapy

The treatment of problems with eating, drinking and speech.

sperm

A mature male sex cell.

spermatic cord

The tube that runs from the testicle towards the penis in males and contains the vas deferens, blood vessels and nerves.

sphincter

A ring of muscle around a natural opening or passage that acts as a valve, regulating inflow or outflow.

spinal stenosis

A condition in which the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord and nerves.

spirometry

A painless, non-invasive lung function test using an instrument called a spirometer to measure the volume of air that can be exhaled from the lungs in a certain time, such as one second

spleen

An organ situated on the left side of the abdomen that filters out worn-out red blood cells and other foreign bodies from the bloodstream.

splenectomy

The surgical removal of the spleen, an organ on the left side of the abdomen that filters out worn-out red blood cells and other foreign bodies from the bloodstream.

splenomegaly

An enlarged spleen.

spondarthritides

A group of arthritic conditions.

spondoarthritides

A group of disorders of the back that share certain clinical features.

spondylolisthesis

A condition in which a bone in the lower part of the spine slips out of position and onto the bone below.

spondylosis

A common degenerative joint disease that is due to wear and tear on the bones of the neck and back.

sputum

A substance coughed up from the respiratory tract.

squamous

Relating to cells that make up epithelium, the outer layer of cells that covers the open surfaces of the body.

SSRI

An abbreviation for selective seratonin re-uptake inhibitors, a relatively new class of drug used to treat depression

stapedial reflex

A very small muscle in the middle ear that contracts in response to loud sound.

staphylococcal infection

A variety of infections caused by the staphylococcal bacteria.