Exacerbation
Exacerbation: A worsening. In medicine, exacerbation may refer to an increase in the severity of a disease or its signs and symptoms. For example, an exacerbation of asthma might occur as a serious effect of air pollution, leading to shortness of breath.
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- Exaggerated startle disease
Exaggerated startle disease: A genetic disorder also known as hyperexplexia in which babies have an exaggerated startle reflex (reaction). This disorder was not recognized until 1962 when it was described by Drs. Kok and Bruyn as a disease with the onset at birth of hypertonia (stiffness), exaggerated startle response, strong brain-stem reflexes (especially head-retraction reflex) […]
- Examination, digital rectal (DRE)
Examination, digital rectal (DRE): An exam done to detect abnormalities that can be felt (palpated) from within the rectum. The doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum and feels for anything that is not normal. The digital rectal exam is an important screening test for the detection of tumors of the rectum and […]
- Exanthem
Exanthem: A rash. The word “exanthem” comes from the Greek “exanthema” which means “a breaking out.” “Anthos” in Greek is “a flower,” particularly a flower blossom, so a child breaking out with an rash is likened to a flower bursting into bloom.
- Exanthem subitum
Exanthem subitum: Means a sudden rash. A viral disease of infants and young children with sudden onset of high fever which lasts several days and then suddenly subsides leaving in its wake a fine red rash. The causative agent is herpesvirus type 6 so the disease is known as Sixth Disease. Also called Pseudorubella, Roseola, […]
- Excess iron
Excess iron: Iron overload can damage the heart, liver, gonads and other organs. Iron overload is a particular risk for: People with certain genetic conditions such as hemochromatosis; and People receiving repeated blood transfusions. According to the National Academy of Sciences, the Recommended Dietary Allowances of iron are 15 milligrams per day for women and […]