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macrocytosis

A blood condition where the average size of the red blood cells increases.

macrophage

A large cell that is present in many different organs and tissues. One of its functions is the removal of bacteria and other foreign bodies from the body.

macrosomia

Abnormally large size. In the newborn baby, a birth weight greater than 4,000g.

macrovascular

Relating to large blood vessels.

macular degeneration

A progressive disorder affecting the area of the retina responsible for seeing fine detail.

Madura foot

A fungal infection of the feet.

magnetic resonance imaging

A technique for imaging the body that uses electromagnetic waves and a strong magnetic field.

malabsorption

impaired absorption of nutrients by the lining of the small intestine.

malaise

General feeling of being unwell.

malaria

A serious disease caused by parasitic protozoa called plasmodia.

malignant

Describes a tumour resulting from uncontrolled cell division that can invade other tissues and may spread to distant parts of the body.

Mallory-Weiss syndrome

A tear at the lower end of the oesophagus. This can be caused by retching and vomiting after excessive alcohol consumption, violent coughing, a severe asthma attack or epileptic convulsions.

malnutrition

The condition that occurs if insufficient nutients, vitamins and minerals are eaten to maintain good health.

mammogram

An imaging study of the breasts, for example, by X-ray.

mammography

A diagnostic and screening test using low-dose X-rays to detect breast tumours

mania

A mood disorder featuring excessive behaviour, sometimes euphoric and sometimes violent.

manometer

A piece of equipment that measures the level of pressure in a liquid or gas.

manometry

The measuring of pressure using an instrument called a manometer.

MAOI

Monoamine oxidase inhibitor, an antidepressant drug.

march fracture

Metatarsal stress fracture.

mastalgia

Breast pain

mastitis

Infection of the breast tissue, most often affecting breastfeeding women

mastoiditis

Inflammation of the mastoid bone in the skull.

mature B cell

A type of white blood cell.