V..
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Vagal
pertaining to the vagus nerve, which supplies sensory connections to the ear, tongue, and pharynx.
Vagotomy
An operation to cut the vagus nerve. This causes the stomach to make less acid.
Vasculitis
inflammation of a blood vessel.
Vasoconstriction
a narrowing of the blood vessels.
Vestibular System
the organ of the inner ear containing several three semicircular ducts at right angles to one another; helps keep the body balanced
Villi
The tiny, fingerlike projections on the surface of the small intestine. Villi help absorb nutrients.
Viral Hepatitis
Hepatitis caused by a virus.
Viremia
the presence of virus in the bloodstream.
Virion
a mature infectious virus particle existing outside a cell.
Virus
a microorganism composed of a piece of genetic material -- RNA or DNA -- surrounded by a protein coat. To replicate, a virus must infect a cell and direct its cellular machinery to produce new viruses.
Volvulus
A twisting of the stomach or large intestine. May be caused by the stomach being in the wrong position, a foreign substance, or abnormal joining of one part of the stomach or intestine to another. Volvulus can lead to blockage, perforation, peritonitis, and poor blood flow