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Glossary

Ulcer

A lesion in which the tissue surface is eroded away.

Ultrasound/Ultrasonography

A technique used to get the image of a deep structure within the body by directing ultrasound waves at it and recording the reflections (echoes) from it.

Umbilicus

The area of the body where the umbilical cord is attached; the belly button.

Ununited anconeal process (UAP)

The anconeal process never unites with the ulna, can detach and form a loose body in the joint, called a joint mouse.

Urate

A chemical compound which contains uric acid and is made by the body, and can form crystals and stones in the urinary bladder. Uric acid is a waste product from the breakdown of certain proteins.

Urea

Wasteproduct of protein metabolism that is removed from the body by the kidneys.

Urease

An enzyme that breaks down urea. Urea is a wasteproduct of protein metabolism that is removed from the body by the kidneys.

Ureter

A small tubular structure leading from the kidney to the bladder. There are 2 ureters, one from each kidney.

Urethra

The tubular structure that transports urine from the urinary bladder to the outside and in the male, carries semen to the outside.

Urinary Incontinence

A phrase used to describe the inability to control urination.

Urinary Obstruction

A blockage in the urinary system, most often occuring in the urethra, the tube that leads from the urinary bladder to the outside of the body.

Urinary Retention

A condition in which the urinary bladder does not rid itself of all urine it contains during the process of urination.

Urticaria

Hives; development of small swellings which may itch; usually caused by an allergic reaction.

Uterus

The female organ in which the fetus develops. Composed of a body and 2 horns.

Uveitis

Inflammation of the eye.