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LFT

An abbreviation for liver function tests, which measure various chemicals in the blood that are made by the liver. An abnormal result suggests a problem with the liver and further tests may be needed to clarify the cause of the problem

LGV

lymphogranuloma venereum

LH

An abbreviation for luteinising hormone, which is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.

libido

Sexual drive.

lichen planus

An autoimmune disease affecting the skin and mucous membranes and leading to patches of inflammation that may be itchy or painful

lichen sclerosus

A disease leading to white patches and atrophy of the genital skin - the vulva in women and the penis in men.

lichen simplex

A skin disorder that leads to chronic itching and scratching.

limited colitis

Type of ulcerative colitis that affects only the left side of the large intestine.

lipase

An enzyme that breaks down fats.

lipid profile

A group of tests often ordered together that measure levels of lipids in the blood.

lipids

A general term for fats and oils that are an important energy source.

lipodermatosclerosis

A rare condition that is associated with chronic vein problems. It affects the skin above the ankles, which becomes smooth, brown, tight and painful.

lipohypertrophy

The build-up of fat tissue at the site of repeated insulin injections, due to the local effects of insulin.

lipoma

A benign tumour of fatty tissue

lipoprotein

One of a group of compounds that consist of a protein combined with a lipid, and help to transport lipids in the blood and lymphatic system.

lipoprotein(a)

A type of lipoprotein, a group of substances that are made up of protein and lipids (fats).

liquid based cytology

The preparation of cells for a cervical screening test to improve the accuracy of the test.

liquid enteral feed

Liquid food that replaces normal solid food and that can be drunk or administered via a nasogastric tube from nose to stomach or directly into the stomach via a hole in the skin.

listeriosis

An infection caused by the bacterium Listeria Monocytogenes.

livedo reticularis

A vascular condition characterised by purplish mottling of the skin.

liver

A large abdominal organ that has many important roles including the production of bile and clotting factors, detoxification, and the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

LLETZ

An abbreviation for large loop excision of the transformation zone, a type of surgery used to cut out abnormal tissue of the cervix of the uterus. It uses a loop of heated wire that acts like a scalpel.

LMP

last menstrual period

LN

lymph node