Glossary of terms used on this site
There are 324 entries in this glossary.L
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Laparoscopy |
A type of minimally invasive surgery in which a small incision (cut) is made in the abdominal wall through which an instrument called a laparoscope is inserted to permit structures within the abdomen and pelvis to be seen. The abdominal cavity is distended and made visible by the instillation of absorbable gas, typically, carbon dioxide. A diversity of tubes can be pushed through the same incision in the skin. Probes or other instruments can thus be introduced through the same opening. In this way, a number of surgical procedures can be performed without the need for a large surgical incision. Most patients receive general anesthesia during the procedure. |
| Leukemia |
A cancer of the blood-forming organs that affects the blood cells. |
| Levitra |
A medication used to treat erectile dysfunction that works by increasing the flow of blood into the penis. |
| LH (luteinizing hormone) |
A chemical produced by the brain that stimulates the testes to produce testosterone. |
| Libido |
A person's sex drive. |
| Lipid profile |
A blood test that measures the level of lipids (fats), such as cholesterol and triglycerides. |
| Liver |
An organ in the upper abdomen that aids in digestion and removes waste products and worn-out cells from the blood. The liver is the largest solid organ in the body. The liver weighs about three and a half pounds (1.6 kilograms). It measures about 8 inches (20 cm) horizontally (across) and 6.5 inches (17 cm) vertically (down) and is 4.5 inches (12 cm) thick. |
| Luteinizing hormone (LH) |
A hormone produced by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. In men, LH stimulates the production of testosterone, a hormone necessary for sperm production. In women, LH causes ovulation. |