Use the A-Z list to browse more than 6,000 health-related topics in our library. Clicking on a term opens the definition and, in most cases, links to more information.
"NTD" is more commonly referred to as "Neglected Tropical Disease" in the medical community. Neglected Tropical Disease
A group of diseases responsible for large numbers of deaths worldwide but that receive few resources to research, prevent or treat -- even in cases where cures are available and inexpensive. They tend to affect poor, developing countries. More Information on Neglected Tropical Disease: Tropical Disease
"NTD" is more commonly referred to as "Neural Tube Defect" in the medical community. Neural Tube Defect
A condition in which the tube that forms the brain and spinal cord fails to develop properly during pregnancy (e.g., spina bifida, anencephaly). Many cases can be prevented by taking folic acid daily before and during early pregnancy. More Information on Neural Tube Defect: Birth & Genetic Disorders
Also Known As: "Nuchal Fold Translucency, Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound"
An ultrasound performed around the 11th to 13th week of pregnancy to measure the thickness of the skin in the back of the baby's neck. Increased thickness shows higher risk of Down syndrome or trisomy 18 and leads further testing and counseling. More Information on Nuchal Fold Scan: Pregnancy Basics
Also Known As: "Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound, Nuchal Fold Scan"
An ultrasound performed around the 11th to 13th week of pregnancy to measure the thickness of the skin in the back of the baby's neck. Increased thickness shows higher risk of Down syndrome or trisomy 18 and leads further testing and counseling. More Information on Nuchal Fold Translucency: Pregnancy Basics
Also Known As: "Nuchal Fold Scan, Nuchal Fold Translucency, Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound"
An ultrasound performed around the 11th to 13th week of pregnancy to measure the thickness of the skin in the back of the baby's neck. Increased thickness shows higher risk of Down syndrome or trisomy 18 and leads further testing and counseling. More Information on Nuchal Translucency: Pregnancy Basics
Also Known As: "Nuchal Fold Scan, Nuchal Fold Translucency"
An ultrasound performed around the 11th to 13th week of pregnancy to measure the thickness of the skin in the back of the baby's neck. Increased thickness shows higher risk of Down syndrome or trisomy 18 and leads further testing and counseling. More Information on Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound: Pregnancy Basics
"Nuclear Bone Scan" is more commonly referred to as "Bone Scan" in the medical community. Bone Scan
Also Known As: "Skeletal Scintigraphy, Radionuclide Bone Scan"
An imaging test that creates images of the bones to identify injured, damaged or diseased areas of the bone. It is performed by injecting a radioactive substance into the body that collects in areas of abnormality. More Information on Bone Scan: Pain Imaging Tests
"Nuclear Imaging & Cancer" is more commonly referred to as "Radionuclide Imaging & Cancer" in the medical community. Radionuclide Imaging & Cancer
Also Known As: "Radionuclide Scans & Cancer"
An imaging test that introduces tiny amounts of radioactive materials called "tracers" into the body. In cancer patients, it most often is used to help locate tumors and to determine how far a cancer has spread. More Information on Radionuclide Imaging & Cancer: Cancer Imaging Tests
"Nuclear Imaging & Digestive Disorders" is more commonly referred to as "Radionuclide Imaging & Digestive Disorders" in the medical community. Radionuclide Imaging & Digestive Disorders
Also Known As: "Radionuclide Scans & Digestive Disorders"
An imaging test that introduces tiny amounts of radioactive materials (called "tracers") into the body. Radionuclide imaging can help diagnose several disorders of the digestive system, including tumors or the source of gastrointestinal bleeding. More Information on Radionuclide Imaging & Digestive Disorders: Digestive Imaging Tests
"Nuclear Imaging & Heart Disease" is more commonly referred to as "Radionuclide Imaging & Heart Disease" in the medical community. Radionuclide Imaging & Heart Disease
Also Known As: "Myocardial Perfusion Imaging, Radioisotope Scanning & Heart Disease"
An imaging test that introduces tiny amounts of radioactive materials (called "tracers") into the body. The tracers emit energy that is used by gamma cameras to take very clear pictures of the desired area (e.g., the heart). More Information on Radionuclide Imaging & Heart Disease: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
"Nuclear Imaging & Neurological Disorders" is more commonly referred to as "Radionuclide Imaging & Neurological Disorders" in the medical community. Radionuclide Imaging & Neurological Disorders
Also Known As: "Radionuclide Scans & Neurological Disorders"
An imaging test that introduces tiny amounts of radioactive materials (called "tracers") into the body. The tracers emit energy that is used by gamma cameras to take very clear pictures of the desired area (e.g., the brain). More Information on Radionuclide Imaging & Neurological Disorders: Brain & Nerve Tests
"Nuclear Imaging & Pain Disorders" is more commonly referred to as "Radionuclide Imaging & Pain Disorders" in the medical community. Radionuclide Imaging & Pain Disorders
Also Known As: "Radionuclide Scans & Pain Disorders"
An imaging test that introduces tiny amounts of radioactive materials called "tracers" into the body. It can detect the source of unexplained pain and a number of conditions, including fractures, arthritis, infections and tumors. More Information on Radionuclide Imaging & Pain Disorders: Pain Imaging Tests
"Nuclear Magnetic Resonance" is more commonly referred to as "MRI" in the medical community. MRI
Also Known As: "NMR, Magnetic Resonance Imaging"
A safe and noninvasive imaging test that can help physicians diagnose diseases of numerous organs and vessels. It uses powerful magnets to produce images on a computer screen and film. More Information on MRI: Imaging Tests
A branch of nuclear medicine that introduces tiny amounts of radioactive materials (called "tracers") into the body. The tracers emit energy that is used by gamma cameras to take very clear pictures of the desired area (e.g., the heart). More Information on Nuclear Medicine: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
An exercise stress test that introduces a radionuclide substance, such as thallium, to create images of the heart before, during and after physical exertion. More Information on Nuclear Stress Test: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
"Nuclear Ventriculography" is more commonly referred to as "MUGA Scan" in the medical community. MUGA Scan
Also Known As: "First Pass Scan, Radionuclide Ventriculography, Gated Blood Pool Scan, Multi Gated Acquisition Scan, Cardiac Blood Pooling Imaging"
A type of radionuclide imaging that is called "multi-gated" because the gamma camera takes multiple (sometimes over 60) different pictures, timed according to an EKG. It reveals blood flow and the function of the ventricles. More Information on MUGA Scan: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
A minimally invasive procedure used to treat sciatic, herniated disc and other spine problems. In involves removing tissue from the center (nucleus) of a vertebral disc. More Information on Nucleoplasty: Back, Neck & Shoulder Pain
"NUG" is more commonly referred to as "Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis" in the medical community. Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
A condition affecting the gums due to bacterial infection. Unlike most periodontal disease, it typically develops quickly and causes moderate to severe pain. Stress and heavy smoking are major risk factors. More Information on Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis: Oral Infections
Method used to describe the intensity of discomfort in numbers ranging from 0 to 10 (or greater, depending on the scale). Rating the intensity of sensation is one way physicians determine how to treat pain. More Information on Numerical Rating Scale: Pain Basics
Stubborn, itchy rash that forms coin-shaped patches on the skin. Over time, lesions may clear in the center or become scaly and then resemble fungus or psoriasis. The condition tends to be chronic and episodic. More Information on Nummular Dermatitis: Dermatitis, Eczema & Hives
Also Known As: "Nummular Eczematous Dermatitis, Nummular Dermatitis"
Stubborn, itchy rash that forms coin-shaped patches on the skin. Over time, lesions may clear in the center or become scaly and then resemble fungus or psoriasis. The condition tends to be chronic and episodic. More Information on Nummular Eczema: Dermatitis, Eczema & Hives
Stubborn, itchy rash that forms coin-shaped patches on the skin. Over time, lesions may clear in the center or become scaly and then resemble fungus or psoriasis. The condition tends to be chronic and episodic. More Information on Nummular Eczematous Dermatitis: Dermatitis, Eczema & Hives
"NUP" is more commonly referred to as "Necrotizing Ulcerative Periodontitis" in the medical community. Necrotizing Ulcerative Periodontitis
Gum disease that leads to dead bone and gum tissue at one or multiple sites in the mouth. More Information on Necrotizing Ulcerative Periodontitis: Oral Infections
It is estimated that nearly 1 percent of the U.S. population (3 million people) are allergic to peanuts, tree nuts (e.g., cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts) or both. More Information on Nut Allergies: Food Allergy & Intolerance
It is estimated that nearly 1 percent of the U.S. population (3 million people) are allergic to peanuts, tree nuts (e.g., cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts) or both. More Information on Nut Allergy: Food Allergy & Intolerance
A combination of the words "nutritional" and "pharmaceutical." The term refers to any foods or dietary supplements believed to be beneficial to a person's health. More Information on Nutraceuticals: Herbs & Supplements
"Nutrasweet Allergy" is more commonly referred to as "Aspartame Allergy" in the medical community. Aspartame Allergy
An adverse reaction to this calorie-free sweetener used in many products, such as soft drinks. Allergic reactions may include swelling, hives, headaches and hyperactivity. However, these reactions have not yet been verified by scientific studies. More Information on Aspartame Allergy: Food Allergy & Intolerance
A claim made by a food manufacturer that characterizes the level of nutrients in a product. Examples are the terms "low fat" or "low cholesterol" and the American Heart Association's heart-check symbol that signifies heart-healthy nutrient levels. More Information on Nutrient Content Claims: Nutrition Basics
The amount of and availability of nutrients found in a single food. Nutrient-dense foods are those that provide substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals and relatively fewer calories.
Any substances in food that the body can use to obtain energy, synthesize tissues or regulate functions, including carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. More Information on Nutrients: Nutrition Basics
Proper nutrition is vital for the growth and development of children and helps maintain overall good health. A variety of healthy foods, such as grains, vegetables and fruit, are important. Sugars, salts and fats should be limited. More Information on Nutrition: Nutrition Basics
Proper nutrition is vital for the growth and development of children and helps maintain overall good health. A variety of healthy foods, such as grains, vegetables and fruit, are important. Sugars, salts and fats should be limited. More Information on Nutrition & Children: Pediatric Diet & Fitness
"Nutrition & Pregnancy" is more commonly referred to as "Pregnancy & Diet" in the medical community. Pregnancy & Diet
Good nutrition benefits a developing baby and the mother. The need for certain nutrients such as folic acid, calcium and iron increases. More Information on Pregnancy & Diet: Pregnancy Management
Good nutrition can help older people prevent disease or reduce symptoms, thus improving quality of life. Diseases impacted by nutrition include osteoporosis, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers. More Information on Nutrition & Seniors: Nutrition Basics
"Nutrition & Skin Health" is more commonly referred to as "Diet & Skin Health" in the medical community. Diet & Skin Health
Almost all nutrients help to improve a person's skin health, while a poor diet can damage skin. Patients should strive to eat a diet low in processed foods and rich in antioxidants. Maintaining a healthy weight also aids skin health. More Information on Diet & Skin Health: Skin & Hair Basics
Diet and nutrition are an important part of a woman¿s ability to maintain good health. In recent years, researchers have found growing evidence of the link between healthy eating and a variety of positive health outcomes. More Information on Nutrition & Women: ObGyn Risk Factors
Counseling with a registered dietician for optimal weight and blood sugar control in people with diabetes. Blood sugar control can reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease, kidney complications, blindness and amputations. More Information on Nutrition Counseling: Diabetes Diet & Fitness
Also Known As: "Nutrition Facts Panel, Nutrition Facts Label"
A panel on most food packaging that provides information about the amount of certain important nutrients in one serving of the packaged food. More Information on Nutrition Facts: Nutrition Basics
Also Known As: "Nutrition Facts, Nutrition Facts Panel"
A panel on most food packaging that provides information about the amount of certain important nutrients in one serving of the packaged food. More Information on Nutrition Facts Label: Nutrition Basics
Also Known As: "Nutrition Facts Label, Nutrition Facts"
A panel on most food packaging that provides information about the amount of certain important nutrients in one serving of the packaged food. More Information on Nutrition Facts Panel: Nutrition Basics
Good nutrition can help older people prevent disease or reduce symptoms, thus improving quality of life. Diseases impacted by nutrition include osteoporosis, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers. More Information on Nutrition For Seniors: Nutrition Basics
Diet and nutrition are an important part of a woman¿s ability to maintain good health. In recent years, researchers have found growing evidence of the link between healthy eating and a variety of positive health outcomes. More Information on Nutrition in Women: ObGyn Risk Factors
Also Known As: "Nutrition Facts Panel, Nutrition Facts Label, Nutrition Facts"
A panel on most food packaging that provides information about the amount of certain important nutrients in one serving of the packaged food. More Information on Nutrition Label: Nutrition Basics
Amendment to the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act of 1938 that made major changes to the content and scope of the nutrition label and to other elements of food labels. Final regulations were published in 1993, and went into effect in 1994.
Standardized labels found on most food packaging that provides information about the amount of certain important nutrients in one serving of the packaged food. More Information on Nutrition Labels & Claims: Nutrition Basics
Messages on food products that can boast many things, from being a "low-fat food" to announcing that the contents were "freshly frozen." More Information on Nutritional Claims: Nutrition Basics
"Nutritional Supplements" is more commonly referred to as "Supplements" in the medical community. Supplements
Also Known As: "Dietary Supplements"
Extra sources of dietary components such as vitamins and minerals that are taken in addition to food. They are available as tablets, capsules, powders and other preparations. More Information on Supplements: Herbs & Supplements
Method of providing nutrition to people who are not able to swallow due to a medical problem. An intravenous (IV) catheter may be used to deliver nutrition to the vein under the patient's skin. More Information on Nutritional Support: Digestive Treatments
"Nutritionist" is more commonly referred to as "Dietitian" in the medical community. Dietitian
Also Known As: "Dietician"
A nutrition expert trained in applying dietary knowledge to address the specific needs of individual patients. A registered dietitian (RD) has met the requirements for certification enforced by the American Dietetic Association. More Information on Dietitian: Nutrition Basics
"NVCJD" is more commonly referred to as "Variant Creutzfeldt Jakob Disease" in the medical community. Variant Creutzfeldt Jakob Disease
Also Known As: "VCJD, New Variant Creutzfeldt Jakob Disease"
A highly infectious degenerative brain disease that occurs in people who consume cattle infected with mad cow disease (bovine spongiform encephalopathy). Non-variant Creutzfeldt Jakob disease is not associated with mad cow disease. More Information on Variant Creutzfeldt Jakob Disease: Encephalopathy
"NYHA Class" is more commonly referred to as "New York Heart Association Class" in the medical community. New York Heart Association Class
Also Known As: "Heart Failure Class"
A classification of heart failure stages. I -- no symptoms or activity limits. II -- mild symptoms; minor activity limits. III -- symptoms occur during exertion; significant activity limits. IV -- symptoms occur at rest; unable to engage in activity. More Information on New York Heart Association Class: Heart Failure
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