A condition in which part of the tissue in the
intestines is destroyed. Occurs mainly in under-weight newborn babies. A
temporary ileostomy may be necessary.
An operation to sew the top of the stomach
(fundus) around the esophagus. Used to stop stomach contents from
flowing back into the esophagus (reflux) and to repair a
hiatal hernia.
Disease of the nervous system. Many people who
have had diabetes for a while have nerve damage. The three major forms
of nerve damage are: peripheral neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy, and
mononeuropathy. The most common form is peripheral neuropathy, which
mainly affects the feet and legs. See also: Peripheral neuropathy;
autonomic neuropathy; mononeuropathy.
Neutralizing antibody
an antibody that keeps a virus from infecting a
cell, usually by blocking receptors on the cells or the virus.
a non-specific lymphocyte. NK cells, like killer
T cells, attack and kill cancer cells and cells infected by
microorganisms. NK cells are "natural" killers because they do not need
to recognize a specific antigen in order to attack and kill.
Noninsulin-dependent
Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM)
The most common form of diabetes mellitus; about
90 to 95 percent of people who have diabetes have NIDDM. Unlike the
insulin-dependent type of diabetes, in which the pancreas makes no
insulin, people with noninsulin- dependent diabetes produce some
insulin, sometimes even large amounts. However, either their bodies do
not produce enough insulin or their body cells are resistant to the
action of insulin (see Insulin Resistance). People with NIDDM can often
control their condition by losing weight through diet and exercise. If
not, they may need to combine insulin or a pill with diet and exercise.
Generally, NIDDM occurs in people who are over age 40. Most of the
people who have this type of diabetes are overweight.
Noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus used to be called "adult-onset
diabetes," "maturity-onset diabetes," "ketosis-resistant diabetes," and
"stable diabetes." It is also called type II diabetes mellitus.
Nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
A group of medications, including aspirin,
ibuprofen, and related drugs, used to reduce inflammation that causes
joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
the central controlling body within a living
cell, usually a spherical unit enclosed in a membrane and containing
genetic codes for maintaining life systems of the organism and for
issuing commands for growth and reproduction.
