Abdominal Anatomical regions
(1) nine region plan: by means of four imaginary planes, two of which are horizontal (indicated by lines drawn across the right and left 10" ribs and across the right and left anterior superior iliac spines) and two sagittal (indicated by lines drawn from
Abrasion
antemortem injuries resulting from friction of the skin against a firm objet resulting in the removal of the epidermis
Abut
to touch or contact, as with the tarsal plates of the closed eyelids
Acessory Chemicals
group of chemicals used in additon to Vascular (arterial ) and cavity embalming fluids; includes but is not limited to hardening compounds, preservative powders, sealing agents, mold preventative agents, and pack application agents
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome/ AIDS
a specific group of diseases or conditions which are indicative of severe immunosuppression related to infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); persons dead having had AIDS may exhibit conditions such as wasting syndrome, extrapulmonary tube
Action Level/ AL Exposure Limits
these levels are established to ensure adequate protection of employees at exposures below the OSHA limits, but to minimize the compliance burdens for employers whose employees have exposure below the 8hour permissible exposure limit (PEL). The AL for for
Actual Pressure
that pressure which is indicated by the injector gauge needle when the arterial tube is open and the arterial solution is flowing into the body
Adipocere (Grave Wax)
a wax-like material produced by saponification of body fat in a body buried in alkaline soil
Aerobic
in the presence of free oxygen
Aerosolization
to disperse as an aerosol; minute particles of blood and water become atomized and suspended in air when water under pressure meets the blood drainage or when flushing an undercover flush sink
Agglutination (Congealing)
intravascular, the increase of viscosity of blood brought about by the clumping of particulate formed elements in the blood vessels
Agonal Algor
decrease in body temperature immediately before death
Agonal Coagulation (Congealing)
in reference to blood, a change from a fluid into a thickened mass
Agonal Dehydration
the loss of moisture from the living body during the agonal state
Agonal Edema
excape of blood serum from an intravascular to an extravascular location immediately before death
Agonal Fever
increase in body temperature immediately before death
Agonal Period
period immediately before somatic death
Algor Mortis
post mortem cooling of the body to hte surrounding temperature
Alternate Drainage (Restricted Drainage)
Method of injection-drainage in which embalming solution is injected and then injection is stopped while drainage is open
American Congress of Govermental Industrial Hygienists/ ACGIH
an organization of professional personnel in govermental agencies or educational institutions who are employed i occupational safety and health programs
Amino Acid
the building blocks of proteins, and the end products of protein digestion or hydrolysis, it is a conpound containging amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl (-COOH) group attached to an alpha carbon and a radical
Anaerobic
in the absence of free oxygen
Anasarca
generalized massive edema in subcutaneous tissue
Anatomical Guide
a descriptive reference for locating arteries and veins by means of anatomical structures which are known
Anatomical Limits
points of origin and points of termination in relation to adjacent structures; used to designate the boundaries of arteries
Anatomical Position
the body is erect, feet together, palms facing forward, and thumbs pointed away from the body
Aneurysm
localized abnormal dilation or outpocketing of a blood vessel resulting from congenital defect or a weakness of a vessel wall
Aneurysm Hook
an embalming instrument used for blunt dissection and in raising vessels; has an eye in hte hook position of hte instrument for placing ligatures around the vessels
Aneurysm Needle
an emblalming instrument that is used for blunt dissection an din raising vessels, which has an eye in hte hook portion of he instrument for placing ligatures around the vessels
Angular Spring Forceps
a multipurpose instrument used in the embalming process
Anomalies
deviation from the normal
Antecubital
in front of the elbow/in the bend of the elbow
Antemortem
before death
Anterior
toward the front
Anterior Superior Iliac Spine
a bony protuberance, that can be palpated topographically, found on the ilium, the superior, broad portion of the hipbone; the origin of he inguinal ligament and the sartorius muscle
Anticoagulant Fluid
ingredient of embalming fuluids that retards the natural postmortem tendenfcy of nlood to become more viscous or prevents adverse reactions between blood and other embalming chemicals
Apparent Death
condition in which th emanifestations of life are feebly maintained
Arterial (Vascular) Fluid
the concentrated, preservative, embalming chemical that will be diluted with water to form the arterial solution for injection into ht earterial system during vascular embalming. The purpose is for inactivating saprophytic bacteria and rendering the body
Arterial Solution
the mixture of arterial (Vascular) fluid and water which is used for the arterial injection and may include supplemental fluids
Arterial Tube
a tube used to inject embalming fluid into the blood vascular system
Arteriosclerosis
disease of the arteries resulting in thickening, hardening, and loss of elasticity of the arterial walls
Articulation
place of union between two or more bones
Ascites
accumulation of serous fluids in the peritoneal cavity
Asepsis
freedom from infection and from any form of life; sterility.
Asphyxia
insufficient intake of wxygen resulting from any of numerous causes
Aspiration
withfrawal of gas, fluids, and semi-solids from body cavities and hollow viscera by means of suction with an aspirator and a trocar
Atheroma
fatty degeneration or thickening of the walls of the larger arteries occuring in atherosclerosis
Autoclave
apparatus used for sterilization by steam pressure, usually at 250 degrees F/ 121 degrees C for a specific time
Autolysis
self destruction of cells; decomposition of all tissues by enzymes of their own formation without microbial assistance
Autolytic Enzyme
the body's own digestive enzymes that are capable of destroying body cells( autolytic decompositon)
Autopsy (Postmortem Examination)
a postmortem examination of the organs an d tissues of a body to determine cause of death or pathological condition; necropsy.
Bactericidal Agent
agent that destroys bacteria
Bacteriostatic Agent
agent that has the ability to inhibit or retard bacterial growth. No destruction of viability of the microorganism is implied
Balsamic Substance
resins combined wiht oil; a fragrant, resinous, oilu exudate from various trees and plants
Base of the Axillary Space
the armpit
Biohazard
biological agent or condition that constitutes a hazard to humans
Biohazardous Waste (Infectious Waste)
bloodborne pathogens, blood or body fluids exposure, any potentially infective, contaminated waste associated with the preparation of human remains that constitutes a hazard to humans in the workplace
Biological Death
irreversible somatic death
Bischloromethyl Ether/ BCME
a carcinogen potentially produced when formaldehyde and sodium hypochlorite come into contact with each other; normally occurs only in a controlled laboratory setting and requires a catalyst
Bleaching Agent
a chemical that lightens a skin discoloration
Blood
cell containing fluid that circulates through the blood vascular system and is composed of approximately 22% solids an d78% water
Blood Discoloration
discolorations resulting from change in blood composition, content, or location, either intravascularly or extravascularly
Blood Pressure
the pressure exerted by the blood in the living body on the arterial wall measured in millimeters of mercury
Blood Vascular System
circulatory network composed of the heart, arteries, arterioles, capillaries, venules, and veins
Bloodborne Pathogen Rule
OSHA Regulation (29CFR 1910-1030) regulating the employee's exposure to blood and other body fluids. OSHA Definitions: blood, human blood, human blood components, and products made from human blood.
Bloodborne Pathogens
Pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans; these pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Blunt Dissection
the seperation an d pushing asid e of he superficial fascia leading to blood vessels and then the deep fascia surrounding blood vessels, utilizing manual techniques or round-ended instruments which separate rather than cut the protective tissues
Boil (Furuncle)
acute, deep-seated inflammation in the skin, which usually begins as a subcutaneous swelling in a hair follicle
Bridge suture (interrupted suture)
a temporary surture consisting of individually cut and tied stiched employed to sustain the proper position of tissues
Buccal Cavity
vesibule of the oral cavity; the space between the lips, gums, and teeth
Bulb Syringe
Self- contained, soft runbber manual pump designed to create pressure to deliver fluids; it cannot be used for aspiration
Buffers
substances that in solution are capable of neutralizing within limits, both acids and bases and thereby maintaining the original, or constant pH, of the solution
Cadaver
dead human body used for medical purposes: including transplantation, anatomical dissection and study
Cadaveric Spasm
a prolongation o fhe last vilolent contraction of he muscle into the rigidity of death
Calvarium
the dome-like superior portion of he cranium; that portion removed during cranial autopsy
Calvarium Clamp
a device used as means of fastening the calvarium after a cranial autopsy
Canalization
formation of new channels in a tissue
capillaries
minute blood vessels, the walls of which comprise a single layer of endothelial cells, Capillaries connect the smallest arteries (arterioles) with the smallest veins ( Venules) and are where pressure filtration occures
Capillary Permeability
ability of substances to diffuse through capillary walls into the tissue spaces
Carbohydrate
a compound of hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen that is an aldehyde or ketone derivative of polyhydroxyl alcohol, Examples are sugars, starches, and glycogen
Carbuncle
circumscribed inflammation of the skin and deeper tissues that ends in suppuation and is acompanied by systemic symptoms, such as fever and leukocytosis
Carcinogen (Carcinogenicity)
a cancer-causing chemical or material
Cavitation
the formation of cavities in an organ or tissure/ frequently seen in some forms of tuberculosis
Cavity Embalming
direct treatment, other than vascular (arterial) injection, of the contents of the body cavities and the lumina of the hollow viscera; usually accomplished by aspiration and injection of chemicals using a trocar
Cavity Fluid
embalming chemicals which are injected into the cavities of the body following the aspiration in cavity embalming. Cavity fluid can also be used as the chemical in hypodermic and surface embalming.
Cellular Death
death of the indicidual cells of he body
Center of Fluid Distribution
ascending aorta and/or arch of the aorta
Center of Venous Drainage
right atrium of he heart
Centrifugal Force Machine
Embalming machine that uses an delectrical pump to create pressure, either pulsating or non-pulsating
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/ CDCP (CDC)
a major agency of the Department of Health and Human Services, wiht headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, concerned with all phases of control of communicable, vector-borne nad occupational diseases
Chelate
substances that bind metallic ions such as EDTA ( Ethylenediamine-tetracetic acid); used as an anticoagulant in embalming solutions
Chemical Postmortem Change
change in hte body's chemical composition that occurs after death; for example, release of heme leading to postmortem staining
Chemotherapy (chemotherapeutic agents)
the application of chemical reagents in the treatment of disease in man, using an elevated preservation demand
Clinical Death
a phase of somatic death lasting from five to six minutes in which life may be restored
Closed System Drainage
drainage procedure that limits the exposure of he embalmer toe th edrainage, tubing is attached to a drain tube allowing drainage to flow directly from a vein into a sanitary disposal system; tubing may also be attached to a trocar and aspirator allowing
Coagulating Agents
chemical and physical agents that bring about coagulation
Co-injection Fluid
a fluid used primarily to supplement and enhance the actio of vascular (arterial) solutions
Coma
mode of somatic death; death beginning at the brain
Communicable Disease
disease that may be transmitted either directly or indiretly between individuals by an infectious agent
Concurrent Disinfection
disinfection practices carried out during the embalming process
Concurrent Drainage
method of drainage in which drainage occurs continuously during vascular (arterial) injection
Condyle
rounded articular process on a bone
Congealing
the process of converting soluble protein to insoluble protein by heating or by contacting wiht a chemical such as an alcohol or an aldehyde
Conjunctiva
Mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white portion of the eye
Contagious Disease
disease that may be transmitted between individuals, with reference to the organism that causes a disease
Contaminated
the presence or the resonably anticipated presence of blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface
Contaminated Laundry
laundry that has been soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials or may contain sharps
Contaminated
sharps
any contaminated object that can penetrate the skin including, but not limited to, needles, scalpels, broken glass, and exposed ends of wires
Cornea
transparent part of the tunic of the eyeball that covers the iris and pupil and admits light into the interior
Corneal Sclera Button
that protion of the cornea recovered for trasplantation in situ.
Coroner
an official of a local community who holds inquests concerning sudden, violent, nad unexplained deaths
Corpulence (Obesity)
having an abnormal amount of fat on the body
Cosmetic Fluid
embalming fluid that contains dyes and coloring agents intended to restore a more natural skin tone through the embalming process
Counter Staining Compound
dye that helps to cover internal discolorations suce as jaundice
Coverall
plastic garment designed ot cover the body from the chest down to the upper thigh
Cranial Embalming
method used to embalm the contents of the cranial cavity through aspiration an injection of the cranial chamber by passage of a trocar through the cribriform plate
Cremated Remains
those elements remaining after cremation of a dead human body
Crepitation
crackling sensation produced when gases trapped in tissues ar palpated, as in subcutaneous emphysema
Creutzfeld-Jakob Disease/CJD
disease of the central nervous system wiht unknown etiology assumed to be caused by a prion
Cribriform Plate
thin, medial portion of hte ethmoid bone of the skull
Death
irreversible cessation of all vital functions (non-legal definition)
Death Rattle
noise made by a moribund person caused by air passin through a residue of mucous in the trachea and posterior oral cavity
Death Struggle
the semi-convulsive twitches which often occur before death
Decay
decomposition of proteins by enzymes of aerobic bacteria
Decomposition
separation of compounds into simpler substances by the afction of microbial and / or autolytic enzymes
Dehydration
loss of moisture from body tissue which may occur antemortem or postmortem the removal of water from a substance
Denatured Protein
a protein whose structure has been changed by physical or chemical agents
Desiccation
rendered thoroughly dry; exhausted of moisture
Dessication Marks
areas of embalmed tissue where excessive dehhydration has occured
Desquamation (skin slip)
sloughing off of the epidermis, wherin there is a separation of he epidermis from the underlying dermis
Dialysis
separation of substances in solution by the difference in their rating of diffusion through a semi permeable membrane
Differential Pressure
the difference between potential and actual pressure
Diffusion
movement of molecules or other particles in solution from an area of greater concenration to an area of lesser concentration until uniform until uniform concentration is reached
Diffusion (Arterial solution)
passage of some components of the injected embalming solution from an intravascular to an extravascular location; movement of the embalming solutions from the capillaries into the interstitial fluids
Digits
finger and toes. The thumb is the number on digit for each hand and the large toe is the number on digit for each foot.
Discoloration
any abnormal color in or upon the human body
Disease
any deviaton from or interuptin of the normal structure or function of a body part, organ, or system
Disinfectant
an agent, usually chemical, applied to inanimate objects/ surface to destroy disease- causing microbial angents, but usually not bacterial spores
Disinfection
the destruction and/or inhibition of most pathogenic organisms and their products in or on the body
Deistrubution (Fluid)
the movement of embalming solutions from the point of injection throughout the arterial sysetm and into the capillaries
Drain Tubes
embalming instrument, inserted into a vein, used ot aid the drainage of venous blood from the body
Drainage
discharge or withdrawal of blood, blood clots, interstitial and lymphatic fluid, and embalming solution from the body during vascular embalming, usually through a vein.
Drench Shower
OSHA required safety device for a release of a copous amount of water in short time
Dry Gangrene
a condition that results when the body part that dies had little blood and remains aseptic; occurs when the arteries but not the veins are obstructed
Dye (Coloring Agent)
substances which will, upon being dissolved, impart a definite color to the embalming solution. Dyes are classified as to their capacity to permanently impart color to the tissue of the body into which they are injected
Ecchymosis (Bruise)
discoloration of the skin caused by the escape of blood within the tissues; generally acconpanied by swelling
Electrocardiogram/ ECG(EKG)
a record of the electrical activity of the heart
Edema
abnormal accumulation of fluids in tissue or body cavities
Electroencephalogram/EEG
a record of the electrical activity of ht ebrain
Electric Aspirator
a device that uses a motor to create suction for the purpose of aspiration
Electric Spatula
an electically heated blade that may be used to dry moist tissue, reduce swollen tissue, and restore contour
Embalming
process of chemically treating the dead human body to reduce the presence and growth of microorganisms, to temporarily inhibit organic decomposition, and to restore an acceptable physical appearance
Embalming Report (Case Report)
report filled out for each body prepared and for each body recieved from another funeral home
Embalming Analysis (Case Analysis)
that consideration given to the dead body prior to , during, and after the embalming procedure is completed; documentation is recommended
Engineering Controls
Mechanical systems and devices engineered into the architecture of a building, for example, exhaust systems, sanitary plumbing
Environment
the surroundings, conditions, or influences that affect an organism or the cells within an organism
Environmental Protection Agency/ EPA
a governmental agency wiht environmental protection regulatory and enforcement authority
Enzyme
organic catalyst produced by living cells and capable of autolytic decompositon. A protein that acts as abiological catalyst
Excision
to remove as by cutting out; the area from which tissue has been removed
Expert Tests of Death
any procedure used to prove a sign of death usually performed by medical personnel
Exposure Incident
a specific eye, mouth, other mucuous membrame, not-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that results from the performance of an employee's duties
Exposure, Occupational
reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact wiht blood or other potentially infectious materials that may result from the performance of an employee's duties
Extravascular
outside the blood vascular system
Extravascular Blood Discoloration
discoloration of the body outside the blood vascular system, for example, ecchymosis, petechia, hematoma, and postmortem stain
Exsanguination
excess loss of blood
Extrinsic
from outside the body
Eye Enucleation
removal of the eye for tissue transplantation, research, or education
Eye Enucleation Discoloration
extravasation of blood as a result of eye enucleation
Eye Wash Station
OSHA- required emergency safety decive providing a steady stream of wter for flushing the eye
Eyecap
a thin, dome-like shell made of hardened cloth,metal, or plastic place beneath eyelids to restore natural curvature and to maintain the position of posed eyelids
Fat
a cmmon name for a tirglyceride ester that is a semisolid or solid at room temperature and contains a high percentage of saturated fatty acids
Fatty Acids
a product of decomposition of fats
Febrile
characterized hy a high fever, causing dehydration of hte body
Federal Trade Commision/FTC
agency of federal goverment created in 19134 to promote free and fair competition by prevention of trade restraints, price fixing, false advertising and other unfair methods of competion
Fermentation
bacterial decomposition of carbohydrates
Fever Blisters
lesions of the mucous membrane of the lip or mouth usually caused by Herpes Simplex Type I or II virus or by dehydration of hte mucous membrane in a febrile disease
Firming
rigidity of tissue due to chemical reaction
Fixation
the act of making tissue rigid. the Solidification of a compound
Fixative
an agent employed in the preparation of tissues, for the purpose of maintaining the existing form and structure, Many agents are used, the most important one being formalin
Formaldehyde/ HCHO
colorless, strong-smelling gas that when used in solution is a powerful preservative and disinfectant; a potential occupational carcinogen
Formaldehyde Grey
Grey discoloration of the body caused by the reaction of formaldehyde from the embalming process with hemoglobin to form methylhemoglobin
Formaldehyde Rule
OSHA regulation limiting the amount of occupaitonal exposure to formaldehyde gas
Gangrene
necrosis, death of tissue of part of the body, usually due to deficient or absent blood supply
Gangrene,Dry
condition that results when the body part that dies had little blood and remains aseptic; occurs when the arteries but not the veins are obstructed
Gangrene, Moist (Wet)
necrotic tissue that is wet as a result of inadequate venous drainage; may be accompanied by the invasion of saprophytic bacteria
Gangrene, Gas
necrosis in a wound infected by an anaerobic gas-forming bacillus, the most common etiologic agent being clostridium perfingens
Gravity Filtration
extravascular movement of preservative fluids by gravitational force to the dependent areas of the body
Gravity Injector
apparatus used to inject arterial fluid during the vascular (arterial) phase of the embalming process; relies on gravity to create the pressure required to deliver the fluid (. 43 pounds of pressure per one foot of elevation)
Groove Director
instrument used to guide vein tubes into vessels
Hand Pump
historical instrument resembling a large hypodermic syringe attached to a bottle apparatus; used to create either pressure for injection or vacuum for aspiration
Hard Water
water containing large amounts of mineral salts. These mineral salts must be removed from or sequestered in water (vehicle) to be used in mixing vascular embalming solutions
Hardening Compound
chemical in powder form that has th e ability to absorb and to disinfect. Often used in cavity treatment of autopsied cases
Hazard Communication Standard/ Rule
OSHA regulation that deals with identifying and limiting exposure to occupational hazards
Hazardous Material
an agent or material exposing one to risk
Head Rest
piece of equipment used to maintain the head in the proper position during the embalming process
Hematemesis
blood present in vomitus; vomiting of blood
Hematoma
a swelling or mass of clotted blood confined to an orgn or space caused by a ruptured blood vessel
Heme
the non-protein portion of hemoglobin; the red pigmnet of hemoglobin
Hemoglobin
the red respiratory portions of the red blood cells; iron containing pigment of red blood cells functioning to carry oxygen to the cells
Hemolysis
destruction of red blood cells that liberates hemoglobin
Hepatitis
inflammation of he liver. It may be caused by a variety of agents, including viral infections, bacterial invasion, and physical or chemical agents. Fever, jaundice, and an enlarged liver usually accompany it.
Hepatitis B Virus/ HBV
a severe infectious bloodborne virus
Herpes
an inflammatory skin disease marked by small vesicles in clusters, usually restricted to diseases caused by Herpes virus
High Preservation Demand Fluids
Special vascular (arterial) fluid wiht an HCHO content of 25 to 36 percent
Household Bleach
a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution, mixing twelve ounces of household bleach wiht 116 conces of water yields one gallon of 10% household bleach solution (5,000 ppm sodium hypochlorite).
Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ HIV
a type of retrovirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
Human Remains
body of a deceased person, including cremated remains
Humectant
chemical that increases the ability of embalmed tissue to retain moisture
Hydroaspirator
apparatus that is connected to the water supply; when the water is turned on, suction is developed and is used to aspirate the contents of the body's cavities
Hydrocele
abnormal accumulation of fluids in a saclike structure in any acculated cavity in the body, especially the scrotal sac
Hydrocephalus
abnormal accumulation of the cerebrospinal fluds in the ventricles of the brain
Hydrolysis
reaction in which water is one of the reactants an dcompounds are often broken down. In the hydrolysis of proteins, the addition of water acccompanied by the action of enzymes results in th ebreakdown of proein into amino acids
Hydropericardium
abnormal accumulation of fluid wihtin the pericardial sac
hydrothorax
abnormal accumulation of fluid in the thoracic cavity
Hygroscopic
absorbing moisture readily
Hypertonic Solution
a solution having a greater concentration of dissolved solute than the soluiton to which it is compared
Hypodermic Embalming
injection of embalming chemicals directly into th etissues through the use of a syringe and needle or a trocar
Hypostasis (Agonal hypostasis, antemortem hypostasis, postmortem hypostasis)
settling of blood and/ or other fluids to dependent portions of the body
Hypotonic Solution
a solution having a lesser concentration of dissolved solute than the solution to which it is compared
Imbibition
the swelling an dsoftening of tissues an dorgans as a result of absorbing moisture from adjacent sources
Incision
a clean cut made with a sharp instrument;in embalming, a cut made wiht a scalpel to raise arteries
Index
strength of an embalming fluid, indicated by the number of grams of pure formaldehyde gas dissolved in 100 mLof water. Index usually refers to a percentage; an embalming fluid with an index of 25 ususally contains 25% formaldehyde gas
Infant
a child less than one year of age
Infectious Disease
disease caused by the growth of a pathogenic microorganism in the body
Inferior
beneath; lower; used medically in reference to the undersurface of an organ or indicating a structure below another structure; toward the feet
Inguinal Ligament
anatomical structures forming the base of the femoral triangle; extends from the anterior superior iliac spine to the pubic tubercle
Injection
the act or instance of forcing a fluid into the vascular system or directly into tissues
Injection Pressure
the amount of pressure produced by an injection device to overcome initional resistance within (intravascular) or on (extravascular) the vascular system (arterial or venous)
Instantaneous Rigor Mortis
the immediate stiffening of hte muscles of adead human body
Intercellular
between the cells of a structure
Intercellular Fluid
fluid inside cells of the body (constituting about one-half of the body weight)
Intercoastal space
space between the ribs
Intermittent Drainage (Restricted Drainage)
a method of drainage in which the drainage is stopped at intervals while the injection continues
Interstitial Fluid
fluid in the supporting connective tissues surrounding body cells (about one-fifth of the body weight)
Intravascular
within the blood vascular system
Intravascular Blood Discoloration
discoloration of the body within the blood vascular system; for example, hypostasis, carbon monoxide, and capillary congestion
Intravascular Fluid
fluid contained within vascular channels (about one -twentieth of the body weight)
Intravascular Pressure
pressure developed as the flow of embalming solution is established and the elastic arterial walls expand and then contract, resulting in filling of the capillary beds and development of pressure filtration
Ischemic Necrosis (dry gangrene)
condition that results when the body part that dies had little blood and remains aseptic and occurs when the arteries but not the veins are obstructed
Intrinsic
from within the body
Isotonic Solution
a solution having an equal concentration of dissolved solute as the solution to which it is compared
Jaundice
condition characterized by excessive concentration of bilirubin in the skin and tissues and depositon of excessive bile pigment in the skin, cornea, body fluids, and mucous membranes with the resulting yellow appearance of the patient
Jaundice Fluid
a special vascular fluid wiht special bleaching and coloring qualities for use on bodies with jaundice; usually low formaldehyde content
Laceration
wound characterized by irregular tearing of tissue
Larvacide
substance used to kill insect larvae
Lateral
away from the midline
Legionaires Disease
a severe, often fatal, bacterial disease characterized by pneumonia, dry cough and sometimes by gastrointestinal symptoms
Lesion
specific pathologic structural an d functional changes or both brought about by disease or injury
Ligate
to tie off an artery and vein upon completion of embalming
Linear Guide
a line drawn or visualized on the surface of the skin to represent the approximate location of some deeper-lying structure
Lypolysis
decomposition of fats
Liver Mortis/ Cadaveric Lividity
postmortem, intravascular, red-blue discoloration resulting from hypostasis of blood
Lumen
a cavity or opening of a vein, artery, or intestine
Lysin
a specific antibody acting destructively upon cells and tissues
Lysosome
organelle that exists within a cell, but separate from the cell; containing hydrolytic enzymes that break down protein and certain carbohytdrates
Maggot
an insect larva; especially fly larva
Mandibular Suture
a stitch used to used to hold the mouth closed; placed behind the lips, one part is passed through around the inferior jaw ath the median plane, while the other part extends through the nasal septum or the superior frenulum
Massage
manipulaiton of tissue in the course of preparation of the body
Mechanical Aids
the application of treatments or procedures that utilize machines or instruments. Adjustments of pressure, rate of flow or use of pulsation with the embalming machine; utilization of properly sized arterial tubes and drainage instruments. Opening and clos
Medial
toward the midline
Medical Examiner
an official elected or appointed to investigate suspicious or unnatural deaths
Meningitis
inflammation of ht emeninges
Microbe (Microorganism
a minute, one-celled form of life not distinguishable as to vegetable or animal nature
Millicurie/ mCi
that amount of radioactive material in which 37 million atoms disintegrate each second
Modifying Agents
chemicals added to the embalming solution to deal with varying demands predicated upon the type of embalming, the environment, and the embalming fluid to be used
Mold Preventative (mold- preventive agents)
agents which will prohibit growth of mold
Moribund
in a dying state; in the agonal period
Mortuary Putty
a paste to fix or fill
Mouth Former
a device used in the mouth in shaping the contour of the lips
Material Safety Data Sheet/ MSDS
this accompany a hazardous product; a requirement of the Department of Labor and OSHA under the Hazard Communication Standard
Multi-pint Injection (Multi-Site)
vascular injection from two or more sites
Musculature Suture
method of mouth closure in which a suture is passed through th eseptum o fthe nose and through the mentalis muscle of the chin
Nasal Cavity
space between the roof of the mouth and the floor of the cranial cavity
Nasal Tube Aspirator
embalming instrument used to aspirate the throat by means of the nostrils
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/ NIOSH
tests and certifies respiratory protective devices and air sampling detector tubes, recommends occupational exposure limits for various substances, and assists OSHA inoccupational safety and health investigations and research
Necrobiosis
antemortem, physiological death of he cells of the body followed by their replacement
Necrosis
pathological death of a tissue still a part of the living organism
Needle Injector
a mechanical device used to impel specially designed metal pins into bone
Nephritis
inflammation of hte kidnwys
Nitrogenous Waste
metabolic by-products that contain nitrogen, suchas urea and uric acid. These compounds have a high affinity for formaldehyde and tend to neutralize embalming chemicals
Non-cosmetic Fluid
a type of arterial fluid that contains inactive dyes that will not impart a color change upon the body tissues of the deceased
Occupational Exposure
reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact with blood or other potential infectious materials that may result from performance of worker's duties
Occupational Safety and Health Administration/ OSHA
a Govermental Agency with the responsibility for regulation and enforcement of safety and health matters for most United States employees; an individual State OSHA agency may supercede the U.S. Department of Labor OSHA regulations
One Point Injection
injection and drainage from one location
Operative (aids) Corrections
any and all techniques to treat a problem area, excision, incision, and channeling
Ophthalmoscope
an optical insturment wiht an accompanying light that makes it possible to examine the retina and to explore for blood circulation
Optimum
th emost favorable conditon for functioning
Oral Cavity
the mouth and the vestibule, or the opening to the throat
Osmosis
passage of pure solvent from a solution of lesser to one of greater solute concentration when the two solutions are separated by a semipermeable membrane which selectively prevents the passage of solute molecules but it is permeable to the solvent
Packing Forceps
embalming instrument used in filing the external orfices of the body
Palpate
to examine by touch
Parallel Incision
incision on the surface of the skin to raise the common carotid arteries. It is made along the posterior border of the inferior one-third of hte sternocleidomastoid muscle
Parenteral
piercing mucous membranes or the skin barrier through such events as needlesticks, human bites, cuts and abrasions
Parts per Million/ ppm
a method of expressing low concentrations; 1 ppm is equivalent to 1 miligram per liter; in contaminated air, the parts of chemical per million parts of solution
Pathological Discoloration
antemortem discoloration that occurs during the course of certain diseases; gangrene and jaundice
Pediculicide
substance able to destroy lice
Percutaneous
effected through unbroken skin
Perfuming Agents ( Masking Agents)
chemicals found in embalming arterial formulations having the capability of displacing an unpleasant odor or of altering an upleasant odor so that it is converted to a more pleasant one
Perfusion
to force a fluid through (an organ or tissue) , especially by way of the blood vessels; injection during vascular (arterial) embalming
Peritonitis
inflammation of the peritoneum, the membranous coat lining the abdominal cavity and investion the viscera
Permissible Exposure Limit/ PEL
the maximum legal limits established by OSHA for regulated substances. These are based on employee exposure that is time-weighted over an 8-hour work shift. When these limits are exceeded, empolyers must take proper steps to reduce employee exposure. For
Personal Protection (Protective) Equipment/ PPE
specialized clothing or equipment worn by an employee for protection against hazard
Petechia
antemortem, pinpoint, extravascular blood discoloration visible as purplish hemorrhages of the skin
Pharmaceutical Agents
drugs or medicines that change the biochemical constituents of the blood
Pitting Edema
condition in which interstial spaces contain such excessive amounts of fluid that the skin remains depressed after palpation
Positioning Devices
preparation room equipmnet for properly positioning bodies prior to, during, and after vascular embalming
Posterior
toward the back
Postmortem
period that begins after somatic death
Postmortem Caloricity
the rise in temperature after death due to continued cellular metabolism
Postmortem Physical Changes
a change in the form or state of matter without any change in chemical composition
Postmortem Stain
extravascular color change that occurs when heme, released by hemolysis of red blood cells, seeps through the vessel walls and into the body tissues
Potential of Hydrogen/ pH
power/ potential of hydrogen; a number signifying the acidity or alkalinity of a chemical solution; the measure of hydrogen ion concenration of a solution. the scale ranges from 0 to 14, 0 beingcompletely acid, 14 completely basic, and 7 neutral. Blood ha
Potential Pressure
the pressure indicated by the injector gauge needle when the injector motor is running and the arterial tubing is clamped off; Turner Portiboy injection machine
Precipitant
a substance bringing about precipitation
Preinjection Fluid
fluids designed to clear the vascular system of blood an denable the arterial solution to distribute with greater facility
Preparation Room
that area or facility where embalming, dression, cosmetizing, or other body preparation are effected
Preservative
chemicals whic inactivate saprophytic bacteria, render unsuitable for nutrition the media upon which such bacteria thrive, and which will arrest decomposition by altering exzymes and lysins of the body as well as converting the decomposable tissue to a fo
Preservative Demand (Formaldehyde Demand)
amount of preservative (formaldehyde) required to effectlively preserve remains. Amount depends on the condition of the tissues as determined in the embalming analysis
Preservative Powder
chemical in powder form; typically used for surface embalming of the remains
Pressure
action of a force against an opposing force (a force applied or acting against resistance). The force per unit area exerted on a material
Pressure Filtration
positive intravascular pressure causing passage of embalming fluid through the capillary wallto diffuse with the interstitial fluids; causing passage of embalming fluid from and intravascular to an extravascular position
Primary Dilution
the dilution attained as the embalming soluiton is miced in the embalming machine
Primary Disinfeciton
disinfection carried out prior to the embalming process
Procurement
the recovery of organs or tissues from a cadaver for transplantation or study
Prognathism
projection of the jaw or jaws that may cause problems wiht mouth closure and alignment of the teeth
Protein
organic compound found in plants and animals; can be broken down into amino acids
Proteolysis
decomposition of proteins
Ptomaine
any on e of a group of nitrogenous organic compounds formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria on proteins; indole, skatole, cadaverine, and putrescine.
Pubic Symphysis
the fibrocartilage that joins the two pubic bones in the median plane
Purge
postmortem evacuation of any substance from an external orfice of the body as a result of pressure
Pus
liquid product of inflammation containing various proteins and leukocytes
Pustular Lesion
characteristic pus-filled structure of a disease, such as smallpox, syphilis, and acne
Putrefaction
decomposition of proteins by the action of enzymes from anaerobic bacteria
Radiation Protection Officer
the supervisor in an institution licensed to use radionuclides who has the responsibility to establish procedures and make recommendations in the use of all radioactive matter
Radionuclide
a chemical element that is similar in chemical properties to another element, but differs in atomic weight and electric charge and emits radiation, An atom that disintegrates by emission of electromagnetic radiation
Rate of Flow
speed at which fluid is injected; measured in ounces per minute
Razor Burn (Razor Abrasion)
a darkened, air-dried area on the skin resulting fcrom removal of the epidermis while shaving
Re-aspirtion
repeated aspiration of a cavity
Reducing Agent
Substance that easily loses electrons and thereby causes other substances to be reduced; formaldehyde is a strong reducing agent
Resinous Substance
an amorphous, nonvolatile solid or soft side substance, a natural exudation from plants. Any of a class of solid or soft organic compounds of natural or synthetic origin
Restricted Drainage
intermittent or alternate injection and drainage
Restoration
treatments of the deceased in the attempt to recreate natural form and color
Restorative Fluid (Humectant)
supplemental fluids may be separate fluids or ones enhancing arterial fluids by teh additon of special chemicals such as humectants, whose purpose is to retain body moisture and retard dehydration
Restricted Cervical Injection
method of injection wherein both common carotid arteries are raised
Right Atrium
the right side of the heart seen as the center of drainage; used as a site of drainage via instruments from the right internal jugular vein and direct via the trocar or through the thoracic wall
Rigor Mortis
Postmortem stiffenign of hte body muscles by natural body processes
Saccharolysis
decomposition of sugars
Sanitation
a process to promote and establis conditions which minimize or eliminate biohazards
Saponification
the reaction between a fat and a strong base to produce glycerol and the salt of a fatty acid (soap); process of soap formation; as related ot decomposition, the conversion of fatty tissues of the body into a soapy waxy substance called adipocere or grave
Saprophytic Bacteria
bacteria that derive their nutrition from dead organic matter
Scalpel
a two piece-embalming instrument consisting of a handle and a blade used to make incisions and excisions
Sealing Agents (Sealers)
material used to provide a barrier or seal against any type of leakage of fluid or blood
Secondary Dilution
weakening of the embalming fluid by the fluids in the body, both vascular and interstitial
Sepsis
pathologic state, resulting from the presence of microorganisms or their products in the blood or other tissues
Septicemia
condition characterizedby the multiplication of bacteria in blood
Sequestering Agent
a chemical agent that can "fence off" or "tie up" metal ions so they cannot react with other chemicals
Serrated
notched on the edge like a saw. as seen with forceps
Sharps
hypodermic needles, suture needles, injector needles, scalpel blades, razor blades, pins, and other items sharp enough to cause percutaneous injury, penetration of ubbroken skin; may include other items normally not disposed of following use, such as scis
Sharps Container
OSHA required recepacle for lproper disposal of sharps
Short Term Exposure Limit/ STEL
legal limits established by OSHA to which workers can be exposed continuously for a short period of time without damage or injury. Exposure at the STEL should not be for more than 15 minutes and not repeated more than four times per workday
Sign of Death
manifestation of death in the body
Sodium Hypochlorite
an unstable salt usually produced in an aqueous soluiton an dused as a bleaching an disinfecting agent
Solute
a substance dissolved in a solvent to form a solution; the component of a solution present in a lesser amount
Solution
a homgeneous mixture of one or more substances (solutes) dissolved in a sufficient quantity of solvent
Solvent
a substance that does the dissolving in a soluiton; the component of a soluiont present in a greater amount
Somatc Death
death of the organism as a whole
Split Injection
injection from one site and drainage from a separate site
Sterilizers
oven or appliance for sterilizing; an autoclave that disinfects by steam under pressure at temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius
Sterilization
a process of completely removing or destroying all life forms and/or their products on or in a substance
Stethoscope
delicate instrument used to detect almost inaudibe sounds produced in the body
Stillborn
dead at birth; a product of conception either expelled or extracted dead
Subcutaneous
situated or occuring beneath the skin
Subcutaneous Emphysema
distension of the tissues beneath the skin by gas or air; an antemortem condition brought about by a surgical procedure or trauma
Superficial
pertaining to or situated near the surface
Superior
more elevated in place or position; higher; upper; anatomically towards the head
Supplemental Fluid
fluid injected for purposes other than preservation and disinfection. Supplemental fluids generally fall into one of three categories: preinjection, coinjection,and humectants or restorative fluids
Surface Compress
cloth, wet or dry, folded and applied firmly to a body part
Surface Embalming
the direct contact of body tissues with embalming chemicals
Surface Discoloration
a discoloration due to the deposit of matter on the skin surface. these discolorations may occur antemortem, during, or after embalming of he body; causes include adhesive tape, ink , iodine, paint, tobacco stains
Surface Pack
an absorbent material compress saturated with an embalming chemical and placed in direct contact with the tissue
Surfactant ( Wetting Agent, Surface Tension Reducer, Penetrating Agent, or Surface- Active Agent)
chemical that reduces the molecular chhesion of a liquid so it can flow through smaller apertures
Tardieu Spots
minute petechial hemorrhages caused by the rupture of minute vessels as blood settles into the dependent areas of organs and tissues; it is accompanied by livor mortis. A postmortem, extravascular blood discoloration. Most common in asphyxial or slow deat
Temporary Preservation
the science of treating the body chemically so as to temporarily inhibit decomposition
Terminal Disinfection
institution of disinfection and decontamination measures after the preparation of the remains
Test of Death
any procedure used to prove a sign of death
Thanatology
study of death
Third Degree Burns
destruction of cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues; seared, charred, or roasted tissue
Tissue Coagulation
a general term. The solidification of a sol into a gelatinous mass. Agglutination is a specific form of coagulation
Tissue Gas
postmortem accumulation of gas in tissues or cavities brought about by an anaerobic gas-forming bacillus, Clostridium perfringens
Tobacco Tars
the yellowing/ browning of the fingernails and fingers from excessive use of cigarettes; a surface discoloration
Topical Disinfection
disinfection of the surface of hte body or an object
Translocation
an agonal or postmortem redistribution of host microflora on a hostwide basis.
Transplantation
the grafting of living tissue from its normal positon to another site, or of an organ or tissue from one person to another
Transverse
lying at right angles to the long axis of the body
Trauma
physical injury or wound caused by external force or violence
Trocar
sharply pointed surgical instrument used in cavity embalming to aspirate the cavities and inject cavity fluid. The trocarmay also be used for supplemental hypodermic embalming
Trocar Button
a plastic threaded screw-like device for sealing punctures and small round trocar openings
Trocar Guide
a line drawn or visualized on the surface of the body or a prominent anatomic structure used to locate internal structures during cavity embalming, from a point of reference two inches to the left of the two inches superior to the umbilicus
Time- Weighted Average/ TWA
an evaluation of exposures that are time-weighted over an established period. It allows the exposure levels to be averaged generally over an 8-hour time period
Unionall
plastic garment designed to cover the entire body from the chest down to and including the feet
Universal Precautions
an approach to infection control in which all human blood and certain human body fluids are treated as if known to be infectious
Vacuum Breaker
apparatus that prevents the back-siphoning of contaminated liquids into potable water supply lines or plumbing cross- commections within the preparation room.
Vascular (Arterial) Embalming
the use of the blood vascular system of the body for temporary preservation, disinfection, and restoration; accomplished through injection of embalming solutions into the arteries and drainage from the veins
Vehicle
liquids that serve as a solvent for the numerous ingredients that are incorporated into embalming fluids
Viscera
internal organs enclosed within a cavity
Viscosity
the resistance that a liquid exhibits to the flow of one layer over another arising from the molecular attraction between the molecules of a liquid; the thickness of a liquid.
Water Conditioner
an agent to remove chemical constituents from municipal water supplies that could interfere with drainage and preservation
Waterless Embalming
injection of an arterial soution composed of a preservative embalming fluid which is diluted with supplemental chemicals such as humectants, water conditioners and co- injections
Water Hardness
quality of water containing certain substances, especially soluble salts of calcium and magnesium
Waterlog
a condition resulting from the use of an embalming solution containing an insufficient amount of preservative to meet the preservation demand of the tissues; the interstitial spaces are overly filled, engorged with water
Work Practice Controls
controls that reduce the likelihood of exposure by altering the manner in which a task is performed; for example, prohibiting recapping of needles and not allowing blood splatter or aerosolization of blood while draining during the embalming process
Abrasion
Scraping or wearing away of the skin by friction; irritation
Abscess
localized collection of pus
Absorption
the process in which incident radiated energy is retained without reflection or transmission on passing through a medium. (e.g. An apple is called red if the red rays are reflected and the other rays in the light are absorbed.)
Abut
To bluntly adjoin another structure; for example, the line of eye closure
Acetone
dimethylketone; a colorless liquid which is used to soften and remove scabs; a solvent for restorative wax, or a stain remover
Achromatic color
A color not found in the visible spectrum; a neutral color such as white, black, gray, and silver and gold (for decorative purposes)
Acquired facial markings
facial markings that develop during one's lifetime, primarily as a result of repetitious use of certain muscles
Additive method
A process of mixing colored lights on a surface on which the wave lengths of each are combined; adding two or more colored lights together to create another color of light
Adhesive
Sticking to or adhering closely; substances which may be applied in order to sustain contact of two surfaces
Aerosol
A colloidal solution dispensed as a mist
After-image
Psychological; a visual impression remaining after the stimulus has been removed
Airbrush
A pressured atomizer utilized for spraying liquid paint or cosmetic upon a surface
Alveolar processes
A bony ridge found on the inferior surface of the Maxilla and the superior surface of the Mandible which contains the sockets for the teeth
Alveolar prognathism
An abnormal protrusion of the alveolar processes
Amputate
To cut off a limb; to dismember
Analogous
In color harmony, two or more hues which have the same hue in common
Anatomical guides
Descriptive references for locating anatomical structures by means of the anatomical structures which are known
Anatomical position
The Body is erect facing the observer, feet together, palms facing forward, and thumbs pointed away from the body.
Anchor
A material or technique employed to secure tissues or restorative materials in a fixed position; an armature
Angle
A sharp turn formed by the meeting of two borders or surfaces; angulus
Angle of the mandible
A bony angle formed by the junction of the posterior edge of the ramus of the mandible and the inferior surface of the body of the mandible; marks widest part of lower 1/3 of face
Angle of projection
The degree from vertical at which the surfaces of a prominent feature projects
Angulus oris eminence
The small convex prominence lateral to the end of the line of lip closure of the mouth; a natural facial marking.
Angulus oris sulcus
The groove at each end of the line of closure of the mouth; a natural facial marking.
Antemortem
Before death
Anterior
of or near the head end or toward the front plane of the body
Anterior nares
the external openings of the nostril.
Antihelix
the inner rim of the ear
Antitragus
a small eminence obliquely opposite the tragus on the superior border of the lobe of the ear.
Aperture
an opening
Aqueous
watery; prepared with water as a solvent.
Aqueous humor
a clear, thin, alkaline fluid which fills the anterior chamber of the eyeball.
Concha
concave shell of the ear; the deepest depression of the ear.
Concurrent
treatments of a restorative nature performed during the embalming operations
Condyle
a rounded process that usually articulates with another bone
Cones of the eye
sensory nerves in the retina of the eye having to do with color detection.
Constrict
to compress, constract
Contour
any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline)
Contusion
a bruise
Conversion
The color of an object being converted or completely destroyed when one color of illumination strikes an object of a completely different color
Convex
curving or bulging outward
Convex-concave profile
a profile variation in which the forehead recedes from the eyebrows while the chin protrudes beyond the plane of the upper lip.
Convex nasal profile
- (Roman, aquiline) a nasal profile which exhibits a hump in its linear form. e.g. Roman, aquiline.
Convex profile
a basic profile form in which the forehead recedes from the eyebrows while the chin recedes from the plane of the upper lip (most common).
Convex-vertical profile
a profile variation in which the forehead recedes from the eyebrows while the chin and upper project equally to an imaginary vertical line.
Cool hue
blue, green, purple, or any intermediate pigmentary hue in which they predominate; a receding hue which creates the illusion of distance from the observer; a color of short wave lengths.
Cords of the neck
vertical prominences of the neck; an acquired facial marking.
Cornea
transparent, anterior part of the eyeball covering the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber that functions to refract (bend) light to focus a visual image
Dusky
(swarthy) somewhat dark in color; when used to describe the complexion color.
Ear
organ of hearing
Ecchymosis
the escape of blood from ruptured blood vessels into the surrounding tissue to form a purple or black-and-blue spot on the skin; bruise
Edema
swelling from excessive accumulation of serous fluid in tissue
First Degree Burn
involves only epithelium; redness, heat (i.e. sunburn)
Florid
(adj.) highly colored, reddish
Fluorescent light
the illumination produced by a tubular electric discharge lamp; the fluorescence of phosphors coating the inside of a tube.
Fold
an elongated prominence adjoining a surface.
Foramen magnum
the large opening at the base of the cranium through which the spinal cord passes
Force
The quality of a color to draw attention by means of its intensity or "advancing" characteristics
Forehead
That part of the face above the eyes
Form
external shape; a mold for casting; produce a certain shape; to constitute existing elements
Fossa
A depression; a concavity
Foundation
The complexion cosmetic in ornamental cosmetology
Forth degree burn
Total evacuation (absence) of tissue
Fracture
broken bone
Frenulum
The vertical restraining fold of mucous membrane on the midline of the inside of each lip connecting the lip with the gum
Frontal
Anterior; the anterior view of the face or features
Frontal bone
The anterior third of the cranium, forming the forehead and the anterior portion of the roof of the skull
Frontal eminences
paired, rounded, unmargined prominences of the frontal bone found approximately one inch beneath the normal hairline
Frontal process of the maxilla
The ascending part of the upper jaw which gradually protrudes as it rises beside the nasal bone to meet the frontal bone; the ascending process of the upper jaw
Abrasion
antemortem injuries resulting from friction of the skin against a firm object resulting in the removal of the epidermis.
Abut
to bluntly adjoin another structure; for example, the line of eye closure.
Agonal Algor
decrease in body temperature immediately before death.
Actual Custody of the Body
the physical possession of the dead human body.
Agonal Coagulation (Congealing)
in reference to blood, a change from a fluid into a thickened mass.
Agonal Dehydration
loss of moisture from the living body during the agonal state.
Agonal Edema
escape of blood serum from an intravascular to an extravascular location immediately before death.
Agonal Fever
increase in body temperature immediately before death.
Agonal Period
period immediately before somatic death.
Agonal Translocation (Translocation)
an agonal or postmortem redistribution of host microflora on a hostwide basis.
Air Tray
a transfer container consisting of a wooden tray with a cardboard covering for the casket.
Algor Mortis
postmortem cooling of the body to the surrounding temperature.
Alternative Container
an unfinished wood box or other non-metal receptacle or enclosure, without ornamentation or a fixed interior lining, which is designed for the encasement of human remains and which is made of fiberboard, pressed-wood, composition materials (with or withou
Anasarca
generalized massive edema in subcutaneous tissue.
Antemortem Subcutaneous Emphysema
distension of the tissues beneath the skin by gas or air; an antemortem condition brought about by a surgical procedure, trauma, or by a puncture or tear in the pleural sac or the lung tissue.
Arrangements Conference
the meeting between the funeral director and the client family during which the funeral arrangements are discussed.
Aron
Hebrew word meaning container; a casket made entirely of wood, containing no metal parts.
Ascities
accumulation of serous fluids in the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity.
Aspiration
withdrawal of gas, fluids, and semi-solids from body cavities and hollow viscera by means of suction with an aspirator and a trocar.
Autolysis
self-destruction of cells; decomposition of all tissues by enzymes of their own formation without microbial assistance.
Autolytic Enzyme
the body's own digestive enzymes that are capable of destroying body cells (autolytic decomposition).
Bactericidal Agent
agent that destroys bacteria.
Bacteriostatic Agent
agent that has the ability to inhibit or retard bacterial growth. No destruction of viability of the microorganism is implied.
Bailee
a person who receives personal property from another as a bailment.
Bailment
a delivery of personal property by one person (the bailor) to another (the bailee) who holds the property for a certain purpose under an express or implied-in-fact contract.
Bailor
a person who delivers personal property to another as a bailment.
Bed
the portion of the casket upon which the deceased human remains are placed.
Biohazard
biological agent or condition that constitutes a hazard to humans.
Biohazardous Waste (Infectious Waste)
bloodborne pathogens, blood or body fluids exposure, any potentially infective, contaminated waste associated with the preparation of human remains that constitutes a ha72rd to humans in the workplace.
Bleaching Agent
a chemical that lightens a skin discoloration.
Bloodborne Pathogens
pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Bloodborne Pathogen Rule
OSHA REGULATION (29CFR 1910-1030) regulating the employee's exposure to blood and other body fluids.
Blood Discoloration
discolorations resulting from changes in blood composition, content, or location, either intravascularly or extravascularly.
Burial-Transit Permit (Disposition Permit)
a legal document, issued by a governmental agency, authorizing transportation and/or disposition of a dead human body.
Casket
a rigid container which is designed for the encasement of human remains and which is usually constructed of wood, metal, or like material and ornamented and lined with fabric (FTC): a case or receptacle in which human remains are placed for protection, pr
Chemical Postmortem Change
change in the body's chemical composition that occurs after death; for example, release of heme leading to postmortem staining.
Chevrah Kadisha
Hebrew phrase meaning "Holy Society," a group of men or women from the synagogue who care for the dead; they may be referred to by laymen as the "washers;" in the past, took care of all funeral arrangements and preparation for Jewish funerals.
Coffin
a case or receptacle for dead human remains which is anthropoidal in shape.
Combination case
a transfer container consisting of a particle board box with a cardboard tray and cover to satisfy air shipping regulations.
Constructive custody (possession) -
where a party has a right to acquire actual custody/possession of the dead body although another party has actual physical possession.
Contaminated
the presence or the reasonably anticipated presence of blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface.
Contaminated Laundry
laundry that has been soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials or may contain sharps.
Corrugated container
a container, used to hold a dead human body which is constructed out of a type of cardboard, which is made with a series of alternate folds and ridges.
Coverall
plastic garment designed to cover the body from the chest down to the upper thigh.
Custodian
a funeral director becomes the legal protector of a dead human body from the time of removal until final disposition.
Decay
decomposition of proteins by enzymes of aerobic bacteria.
Decomposition
separation of compounds into simpler substances by the action of microbial and/or auto lytic enzymes.
Dehydration
loss of moisture from body tissue which may occur antemortem or postmortem the removal of water from a substance.
Denture
set of artificial teeth.
Desquamation (Skin-slip)
sloughing off of the epidermis, wherein there is a separation of the epidermis from the underlying dermis as a result of putrefaction.
Discoloration
any abnormal color in or upon the human body.
Disinfectant
an agent, usually chemical, applied to inanimate objects/surfaces to destroy disease causing microbial agents, but usually not bacterial spores.
Disinfection
destruction and/or inhibition of most pathogenic organisms and their products in or on the body.
Direct Cremation
disposition of human remains by cremation, without formal viewing, visitation or ceremony with the body present. [16 CFR 453(g)]
Direct Disposition
any method of disposition of the human remains without formal viewing, visitation or ceremony with the body present.
Ecchymosis (Bruise)
discoloration of the skin caused by the escape of blood within the tissues; generally accompanied by swelling.
Edema
abnormal accumulation of fluids in tissues or body cavities.
Electric Spatula
electrically heated blade which may be used to dry moist tissue, reduce swollen tissue, and restore contour to natural form.
Extravascular Blood Discoloration -
discoloration of the body outside the blood vascular system, for example, ecchymosis, petechia, hematoma, and postmortem stain.
Eye Enucleation
removal of the eye for tissue transplantation, research and education.
Eye Enucleation Discoloration
extravasation of blood as a result of eye enucleation.
Eyecap
a thin, dome-like shell made of hardened cloth, metal, or plastic placed beneath eyelids to restore natural curvature and to maintain the position of posed eyelids.
Fermentation
the microbial (enzymatic) decomposition of carbohydrates under anaerobic conditions.
Fever Blisters
lesions of the mucous membrane of the lip or mouth usually caused by Herpes Simplex Type I or II virus or by dehydration of the mucous membrane in a febrile disease.
Final Disposition
the conclusive performance of services with respect to the dead human body.
Holy Water
water blessed by a priest.
Headrest
piece of equipment used to maintain the head in the proper position during the embalming process.
Hematoma
a swelling or mass of clotted blood confined to an organ or space caused by a ruptured blood vessel; tumor like swelling of blood
Hemolysis
destruction of red blood cells that liberates hemoglobin.
Hepatitis B Virus/HBV
severe infectious bloodborne virus.
Herpes
inflammatory skin disease marked by small vesicles in clusters, usually restricted to diseases caused by herpes virus.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus/HIV
retrovirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Human Remains
body of a deceased person, including cremated remains.
Hydrocele
abnormal accumulation of fluids in a saclike structure in any sacculated cavity in the body, especially the scrotal sac.
Hydrocephalus
abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluids in the ventricles of the brain.
Hydrolysis
reaction in which water is one of the reactants and compounds are often broken down. In the hydrolysis of proteins, the addition of water accompanied by action of enzymes results in the breakdown of protein into amino acids.
Hydropericardium
abnormal accumulation of fluid within the pericardial sac.
Hydrothorax
abnormal accumulation of fluid in the thoracic cavity.
Immediate Burial
disposition of human remains by burial, without formal viewing, visitation or ceremony with the body present, except for a graveside service [16 CFR. 453.1(k)]
Instantaneous Rigor Mortis
immediate stiffening of the muscles of a dead human body.
Intravascular Blood Discoloration
discoloration of the body within the blood vascular system; for example, hypostasis, carbon monoxide, and capillary congestion.
Jaundice (icterus)
conditions characterized by excessive concentrations of bilirubinin the skin and tissues and deposition of excessive bile pigment in the skin, cornea, body fluids, and mucous membranes with the resulting yellow appearance of the patient.
Laceration
wound characterized by irregular tearing of tissue.
Lipolysis
decomposition of fats.
Livor Mortis (Cadaveric Lividity)
postmortem intravascular red-blue discoloration resulting from hypostasis of blood.
Lysin
specific antibody acting destructively upon cells and tissues.
Lysosome
organelle that exists within a cell, but separate from the cell; contains hydrolytic enzymes that break down proteins and certain carbohydrates.
Mandibular Suture
a stitch used to hold the mouth closed; placed behind the lips, one part is passed through around the inferior jaw at the median plane, while the other part extends through the nasal septum or the superior frenulum.
Microorganisms (Microbe)
minute one-celled form of life not distinguishable as being of vegetable or animal nature.
Microbial Enzyme
the enzymes of microorganisms; a source of the enzymes that contribute to decomposition.
Mold Preventative (Mold-Preventive Agents)
agents which will prohibit the growth of mold.
Morgue
a place where dead human bodies are kept until identified and/or released for final disposition.
Mouth Former
device used in the mouth to shape the contour of the lips.
Musculature Suture
method of mouth closure in which a suture is passed through the septum of the nose and through the mentalis muscle of the chin.
Mutilation
any altering or change made to a dead human body from the time of death, other than by natural causes.
Necrosis
pathological death of a tissue still a part of the living organism.
Needle Injector
mechanical device used to impel specially designed metal pins into bone.
Pathological Discoloration
antemortem discoloration that occurs during the course of certain diseases; gangrene and jaundice.
Pediculicide
substance able to destroy lice.
Perfuming Agents (Masking Agents)
chemicals found in embalming arterial formulations having the capability of displacing an unpleasant odor or of altering an unpleasant odor so that it is converted to a more pleasant one.
Personal Protective Equipment/PPE
those items of protection worn to minimize exposure to hazards; those items worn by the embalmer to avoid contact with blood and other body fluids.
Petechia
antemortem, pinpoint extravascular blood discoloration visible as purplish hemorrhages of the skin.
Pitting Edema
condition in which interstitial spaces contain such excessive amounts of fluid that the skin remains depressed after palpation.
Positioning Devices
preparation room equipment for properly positioning bodies prior to, during, and after vascular embalming.
Postmortem Caloricity
rise in body temperature after death due to continued cellular metabolism.
Postmortem Physical Changes
change in the form or state of matter without any change in chemical composition.
Postmortem Stain
extravascular color change that occurs when heme, released by hemolysis of red blood cells, seeps through the vessel walls and into the body tissues.
Preparation Room
that facility in a funeral home especially designed and equipped for embalming and preparation of dead human bodies.
Primary Disinfection
disinfection carried out prior to the embalming process.
Procurement
the recovery of organs or tissues from a cadaver for transplantation.
Prognathism
projection of the jaw or jaws that may cause problems with mouth closure and alignment of the teeth.
Property
anything that may be owned.
Prosthetic Device
an artificial device used to replace a limb, appendage, or other body part.
Purge
postmortem evacuation of any substance from an external orifice of the body as a result of pressure.
Pus
liquid product of inflammation containing various proteins and leukocytes.
Pustular Lesion
characteristic pus-filled structure of a disease, such as smallpox, syphilis, and acne.
Putrefaction
decomposition of proteins by the action of enzymes from anaerobic bacteria.
Razor burn (razor abrasion)
a darkened, air-dried area on the skin resulting from removal of the epidermis while shaving.
Re-aspiration
repeated aspiration of a cavity.
Receiving Remains
one of the categories required to be itemized on the GPL (if the funeral provider offers the service). This involves services of the funeral provider after initial services have been provided by another firm at the locale of death. Funeral Rule requires p
Receiving Vault
a structure so designed for the temporary storage of bodies that are not to be immediately interred.
Rental Casket
a casket which is used as a temporary receptacle for the dead human remains for the purpose of visitation and funeral, with the intention that the remains will be placed in some other suitable container for permanent disposition, while the casket is inten
Restoration
treatment of the deceased in the attempt to recreate natural form and color.
Rigor Mortis
postmortem stiffening of the body muscles by natural body processes.
Saccharolysis
decomposition of sugars.
Sanitation
process to promote and establish conditions which minimize or eliminate biohazards.
Saprophytic Bacteria
bacteria that derive their nutrition from dead organic matter.
Sealing Agents (sealers)
material used to provide a barrier or seal against any type of leakage of fluid or blood.
Service of Encasketing
in the Buddhist faith, a service performed as a part of casketing the body.
Shomer
in the Jewish faith, a watcher; one who sits with the body until burial.
Shroud
a cloth or garment in which a dead person is wrapped or dressed for burial.
Splint
an appliance as of wood, metal, etc., used to keep in place or protect a displaced or movable part.
Surface discoloration
discoloration due to the deposit of matter on the skin surface. These discolorations may occur antemortem, during, or after embalming of the body; adhesive tape, ink, iodine, paint, tobacco stains.
Surface Pack
absorbent material, compress, saturated with an embalming chemical and placed in direct contact with the tissue.
Tachrichim
a hand-sewn white linen shroud in which the deceased members of the Jewish faith are dressed.
Taharah
in the Jewish faith, the ceremony of washing the deceased before the burial; serves as a ritual purification or cleansing of the body and should be performed by the Chevra Kaddisha.
Tardieu Spots
minute petechial hemorrhages caused by the rupture of minute vessels as blood settles into the dependent areas of organs and tissues; it is accompanied by livor mortis. A postmortem, extravascular blood discoloration. Most common in asphyxial or slow deat
Tehiffim
in the Jewish faith, prayers said before the funeral by a group of friends and the shomer. These prayers come from the book of Psalms.
Temple Ordinances
ceremonial instructions of the Mormon Church, given only within a Temple to worthy members of the sect.
Tissue Gas
postmortem accumulation of gas in tissues or cavities brought about by an anaerobic gas forming bacillus. Clostridium perfringens.
Tobacco Tars
the yellowing/browning of the finger nails and fingers from excessive use of cigarettes; a surface discoloration.
Topical Disinfection
disinfection of the surface of the body or an object.
Unionall
plastic garment designed to cover the entire body from the chest down to and including the feet.
abscess
localized accumulation of pus
accessory
auxillary; assisting; lesser structure that reselbes a similar organ in structure and function, such as the accessory pancreatic duct
acids
a substance that yeilds hydrogen or hydronium ions in aqueous solution
acquired
presents itself after birth
acromegaly
hyperfunction of pituitary gland after ossification has been completed
acute
a disease with a more or less rapid onset and short duration
adipocere; gravewax
a wax like material produced by saponification of body fat in a body buried in alkaline soil
albumin
a protein found in blood plasma
alcohols
an organic compound containing one ormore hydroxyl (-OH) groups
aldehyde
an organic compound containing one or more -CHO groups
alimentary canal
the digestive system tube from the mouth to the anus, including the mouth or buccal cavity, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and small and large intestines
allergies
having a hypersensitivity to a substance that does not normally cause a reaction
allergy;hypersensitivity;
an acquired, abnormal immune response to a substance (allergen) that does not normally cause a reaction
amelia
congenital absence of one or more limbs
amines
an organic compound containing nitrogen; any compounds containing an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl (-COOH) group attached to an alpha carbon and a radical
amphoteric
any compound that can act as both an acid and a base in a solution (amino acid)
anasarca
generalized massive edema in subcutaneous tissue
anatomy
the branch of science dealing with the study of the structure of the body
anemia
a decrease in the number of erythrocytes, hemoglobin or both
aneurysm
a localized dilation of a blood vessel
angiology
the study of vessels
antagonism
mutual opposition or contrary action. the inhibition of one microorganism by another
antibody
glycoprotein substance developed by the body in response to, and interacting specifically with, an antigen. also known as immunoglobulin
anticoagulants
chemicals used to keep the blood in the liquid state; chemical agents that retard the tendency of the blood to become more viscous by natural post mortem processes and or prevent other adverse reactions between the blood and the other embalming chemicals
antigen
a foreign substance that stimulates the formation of antibodies that react specifically with it
antisepsis
the prevention or inhibiting of the growth of causative microorganisms
anterior; ventral
before or in front of; refers to the ventral or front side of the body
attenuation
dilution or weakening of virulence of a microorganism, reduing or abolishing pathogenicity
aplasia
failure of a tissue or an organ to develop normally
appendicular skeleton
the body structure that makes up the pectoral girdle, upper extremities, pelvic girdle, and lower extremities
arterial (vascular) fluid
the concentrated, preservative embalming chemical that will be diluted with water (or another appropriate vehicle such as alcohol) to form the arterial solution for injection into the arterial (vascular) system during vascular (arterial) embalming
arteriosclerosis
disease of the arteries resulting in thickening and loss of elasticity of the arterial walls
articulation
the place of union between two or more bones; a joint
ascities
accumulation of free serous fluid in the abdominal cavity
atherosclerosis
a form of arteriosclerosis marked by the deposition of lipids in the inner layer of arterial walls
atom
the smallest particle of an element that has all the properties of the element
atrophy
a wasting, decrease in size of an organ or tissue
autolysis
self digestion or self destruction of the body by autolytic enzymes
autopsy chemicals
those chemicals specifically designed for usein the preparation of bodies following an autopsy
autotrophic bacteria
self nourishing bacteria
axial skeleton
80 bones including the skull, vertebrae, thorax, and hyoid bone
bacillus; pl. bacilli
rod shaped bacteria
bacteremia
the presence of bacteria in the blood
bacteria
prokaryotic one celled microorganism of the kingdom monera, existing as free living organisms or as parasites, multiplying by binary fission and having a large range of biochemical properties
bacterial colony
a visible group of bacteria growing on a solid medium, presumable arising from a single microorganism
bactericide
an agent that destrooys bacteria but not necessarily their spores
bacteriology
science that studies bacteria
bases
a substance that yeilds hydroxide ions in aqueous solution
bilateral symmetry
refers to the symmetry of paired organs, or to an organism whose right and left halves are similar images of each other, or in which a median section divides the organism into equivalent right and left halves
biliary
pertaining to bile
biliary tract
organs and ducts that participate in the secretion, storgae, and delivery of bile to the duodenum
binary fission
a method of asexual reproduction involving halving of the nucleus and cytoplasm of the cell followed by the development of each half into a new individual
biochemistry
that branch of chemistry dealing with compounds produced by living organisms
biological vector
an arthropod vector in which the disease causing organism multiplies or develops within the arthropod prior to becoming infective for a susceptible individual
bladder
a membranous sac or receptacle for a secretion or excretion
boiling
the rapid passage of liquid particles to the vapor state by forming bubbles through the action of heat. the term for the point of equilibrium between the liquid and gas states of matter and typically employed when the temperature is increasing
buccal
relating to the cheek or mouth
buffers
substances that in solution are capable of neutralizing, within limits, both acids and bases and thereby maintaining the original, or constant pH, of the solution
cachexia
a general state of ill-health, associated with emaciation
capsule
a sheath or continuous enclosure around an organ or structure
capsule
the membrane that surrounds some bacterial cells; a loose gel like structure that, in pathogenic bacteria, helps to protect against phagocytosis
carbohydrates
a compound of hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen that is an aldehyde or ketone derivative of polyhydroxyl alcohol (sugar, starches, and glycogen)
carbuncle
several communicating boils of the skin and subcutaneous tissues with the production and discharge of pus and dead tissue
cardiology
study of the heart
carotic canal
canal in the petrous portion of the temporal bone that transmits the internal carotid artery and the internal carotid plexus of sympathetic nerves
cavitation
formation of cavities in an organ or tissue; frequently seen in some forms of tuberculosis
cavity fluid
concentrated embalming chemicals which are injected into the cavities of the body following aspiration in cavity embalming. these fluids can also be used for surface and hypodermic embalming of the problem area
central
situated at or pertaining to a center or central point
chlamydia
large group of nonmotile, gram negative intracellular parasites
chemical changes
a change in which a new substance or substances are produced that have entirely different properties from the original substance because the chemical composition has changed
chemical properties
characteristics that can be observed when a substance is interacting with other substances resulting in a change of chemical composition
chemistry
the branch of natural science that is concerned with the description and classification of matter, with the changes that matter undergoes, and with the enery associated with each of these changes
choanae
funnel shaped openings, especially of the posterior nares; one of the communication passageways between the nasal fossae and the pharynx
chronic
a disease with a more or less slow onset and long duration
cleft palate
congenitally malformed palate with a fissure along the midline
clinical pathology
study of disease by means of body secretions, excretionsand other body fluids performed in the laboratory in the diagnosis of a disease
coagulation
the process of converting soluble protein to insolbule protein by heating or by contact with a chemical such as an alcohol or an aldehyde
coccus(pl. cocci)
the type of bacteria that is spherical or ovoid in form
colloid
a solution like system in which the size of the solute particle is between 1 and 100 nanometers. particles of solute pass through filters but not membranes
colon
the part of the large intestine extending from the cecum to the rectum
combustion
the rapid oxidation or burning that produces heat and light
commensalism
the symbiotic relationship of two organisms of different species in which one gains some benefit such as protection or nourishment and the other is not harmed or benefited
communicable
a disease that may be transmitt4ed directly or indirectly from one individual to another
complication
an unfavorable condition arising during the course of disease
compounds
a substance consisting of two or more atoms combined chemically in definite proportions by mass
concentrated solution
a solution containing a relatively large amount o solute
concentrations
the ratio of mass or volume of a solute to the mass or volume of the solution or solvent
concha
one of the three nasal conchae; a scroll like bone
concussion
the immediate and temporary disturbance of brain function
condensation
a change of state of matter from a gas to a liquid
condyle
a curved protuberance at the end of a bone forming an articulation
congenital
existing at the time of birth or shortly thereafter
congestion
accumulation of an excess of blood or tissue fluid in a body part
contamination
the act of introducing disease germs or infeccctious material into an area or substance
contusion
a bruise often accompanied with swelling
cortex
the outer layer of an organ as distinguished from the inner medulla, as in the adrenal gland or kidney
cretinism
a congenital condition due to hypothyroidism resulting in mental retardation
cryptorchism; cryptorchidism
condition in which the descent of a testis into thte scrotum is arrested at some point in the normal path
crystallization
the process by which a substance is given definite form
curvature
a normal or abnormal bending away; a curve
cyanosis
bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membrane due to lack of oxygen
cyst
a sac within or on the body surface containing air or fluid
cystic
of or pertaining to a cyst or sac like structure; pertaining to the gallbladder; pertaining to the urinary bladder
decay
the gradual decomposition of dead organic matter by the enzymes of aerobic bacteria
deep
below the surface
deficiency
disease due to lack of dietary or metabolic substance
degeneration
the deterioration of tissues with corresponding functional impairment as a result of disease or injury
dehydration
loss of moisture from body tissue which may occur antemortem or postmortem
dehydration; desiccation
removal of water from a substance. dehydration is generally used to indicate the natural loss of water, and the term desiccation is used when a substance is intentionally caused to lose water as in a desiccator
denaturation
the disruption and breakdown of the secondary structure of a protein by heat or chemicals
deodorants
chemicals having the capability of displacing an unpleasant odor or of altering an unpleasant odor so that it is iconverted to a morepleasant one
detoxification
reduction of the toxic properties of a poisonous substnce
diagnosis
the term denoting the naming of the disease or syndrome; to recognize the nature of a disease
dialdehyde
an organic compound containing two aldehyde (-CHO) radicals
diffusion
the movement of molecules or other particles in solution from an area of greaterconcentration to an area of lesser concentration until uniform concentration is reached
dilatation; dilation
the condition of the heart being enlarged, occurring normally, artifically or as a result of disease
dilute solution
a solution containing relatvely small amount of solute
diplobacilli
a double bacillus, two being linked end to end. morax axenfeld bacillus a cause of conjunctvitis is typical of this form
diplococcus
a genus of bacteria that occur in pairs
distal
farthest from the center, from a medial line, or from the trunk; opposite of proximal
disinfectant
a chemical or physical agent that kills disease causing microorganisms
disinfection
the destruction of disease causing microorganisms by chemical or physical means
dorsal
posterior; toward the back; opposit of anterior
drug fast
resistant, as in bacteria, to the action of a drug or drugs
dry gangrene
condition that results when the body part that dies had little blood and remains aseptic and occurs when the arteries but not the veins are obstructed (e.g., ischemic necrosis)
dyes
a natural or synthetic compound that is used to impart color to another material
dysplasia
abnormal development of tissue
ecchymosis
small, non elevated hemorrhagic patch; extravasation of blood into a tissue
extopic pregnancy
the implantation of the fertilized ovum in a site other than the normal one in the uterine cavity
edema
also known as dropsy
edema
abnormal accumulation of fluids in tissue or ody cavities
elements
a simple substance which cannot be decomposed by ordinary chemical means
emaciation
excessive wasting away of the body
embalming chemistry
the study of those types of matter and changes in matter related to the disinfection and preservation of human remains
embalming fluids
the fluids specifically designed for preservation and disinfection purposes
embolism
free floating object in the blood stream
eminence
a prominence or projection, especially of a bone
empyema
pus in the pleural cavity
endemic
disease that occurs continuously in a particular region, but has low mortality
endemic
a disease that is continuously present in a community
endocrine
pertaining to a ductless gland that secretes directly into the bloodstream
endogenous infection
produced or arising from within a cell or organism
endospores
a thick walled spore within a bacterium
endotoxin
bacterial toxin confined within the cell wall of a bacterium freed only when the bacterium is broken down, found only in gram negative bacteria
enzyme
a protein that acts as a biological catalyst
epidemic
appearance of an infectious disease or condition that attacks many people at the same time in the same geographical area
epidemic
disease that is currently in higher than normal numbers
epilepsy
a chronic neurogenic disease marked by suddenalterations in consciousness and frequently by convulsions
epistaxis
bleeding from the nose
ester
a compound with the general formula RCOOR (where R is a hydrocarbon group or a hydrogen and R' is a hydrocarbon group) it is formed from an alcohol and organic (or carboxylic) acid by removal of water (dehydration)
etiology
the study of the cause of disease
exacerbation
increase in severity of a disease
exocring
pertaining to a gland that delivers its secretion through a duct
exogenous infections
originating outside an organ or part
exotoxin
a toxin produced by a microorganism and excreted into its surrounding medium
exsanguination
loss of blood to the point where life can no longer sustained
external
exterior; the opposite of internal
external auditory meatus
the lateral, outer opening of the external auditory canal
exudate
fluid or cellular debris exuding from blood vessels and deposited in tissues or tissue surfaces; usually a result of inflammation
facultative aerobe
a microorganism that prefers an environment devoid of oxygen but has adapted so that it can live and grow in the presence of oxygen
facultative anaerobe
an organism that prefers an oxygen environment but is capable of living and growing in its absence
facultative saphrophyte
prefers live organic matter as a source of nutrition but can adapt to the use of dead organic matter under certain conditions
fats
a common name for a triacylglycerol that is a semisolid or solid at room temp and contains a high percentage of saturated fatty acids
febrile
pertaining to or characterized by fever
fermentation
the microbial (enzymatic) decomposition of carbohydrates under anaerobic conditions
focal infection
one in which the organisms are originally confined to one area but enter the blood or lymph vessel and spread to other parts of the body
fomite
any inanimate object to which infectious material adheres and can be transmitted
fontanel
a temporarily unossified area on the surface of the cranium of an infant
formalin
formaldehyde gas dissolved in water at 37% by weight and 40% by volume
formaldehyde demand ; glutaraldehyde demand
that amound of formaldehyde necessary to overcome any nitrogen residue and cause the body proteins to become coagulated
fossa
a shallow depression
freezing
a change of state of matter from a liquid to a solid by the loss of heat. the term for the point of equilibrium between the solid and liquid states and typically employed when the temp is decreasing
fulminating
having rapid and severe onset, usually fatal
functional
a condition or disease in which there is no recognizable change in anatomy
fungicide
a substance that kills fungi
fungus(pl. fungi)
a group of diverse and widespread unicellular and multicellular organisms, lacking chlorophyll, usually bearing spores and often filamentous
furuncle
an abscess or pyogenic infection of a sweat gland or hair follicle
gases
a state of matter in which the atoms or molecules move about in almost complete freedom from one another. gases have no definite shape or volume and assume the shape and volume of their container by diffusing uniformly throughout the container
general infection
an infection that becomes systemic
general pathology
deals with the study of the widespread processes of disease such as inflammation, degeneration, necrosis or cellular death, repair, etc. without reference to particular organs or organ systems
germicide
a substance that destroy microorganisms
gland
a secretory organ or structure; a cell or group of cells that can manufacture a secretion
goiter
enlargement of the thyroid gland due to iodine deficiency
gross pathology
study of changes in structure of the body that are readily seen with the unaided eye as a result of disease
hardness of water
the condition of water that results from dissolved minerals and metallic iions such as calcium and magnesium
hematemesis
vomitting of blood
hematoma
tumore like swelling of blood
hematuria
discharge of red blood cells in the urine
hemophilia
an inherited hemorrhagic disease characterized by a tendency to excessive and sometime spontaneous bleeding
hemoptysis
blood in sputum
hemorrhage
ascape of blood fm blood vascular system
hereditary
genetic characteristic transmitted from parent to offspring
hernia
abnormal protrusion of part of an organ through an abnormal opening in the wall that normally contains t
heterocrine
a gland that has both endocrine and exocrine functions, such as the pancreas
heterotrophic bacteria (other than self nourishing)
organisms that must obtain their nourishment from complex organic matter
humectants
chemicals that increase the capability of embalmed tissues to retain moisture
hydrates
a compound in which there is a chemical union between water and certain substances when they crystallize
hydrocele
abnormal collection of fluid in any sacculated cavity in the body
hydrocephalus
excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain
hydrolysis
a chemical reaction in which a substance is broken down or dissociated by water, a reaction between a salt and water to yield an acid and a base of unequal strengths
hydronephrosis
distention of the pelvis and calyces of one or both kidneys with urine as a result of obstruction
hydropericardium
abnormal accumulation of fluid within the pericardial sac
hydrothorax
abnormal accumulation of luid in the the thoracic cavity
hyperemia
excess of blood in an area of the body
hyperplasia
the increase size of an organ or part due to the excessive but regulated increase in the number of its cells
hypertonic solution
a solution having a great concentration of dissolved solute than the solution to which it is compared
hypertrophy
the enlargement of an organ or part due to the increase in size of cells composing it
hypochlorites
bleaches; chlorine containing compounds
hypoplasia
underdevelopment of a tissue, organ or the body
hypotonic solution
a solution having a lesser concentration of dissolved solute than the solution to which it is compared
iatrogenic
results from the adverse activity of medical personnel
idiopathic
of unknown cause (ex: essential hypertension)
imbibition
the swelling and softening of tissues and organs as a result of absorbing moisture from adjacent sources
index
the strength of embalming fluids indicated bythe number of grams of pure formaldehyde gas dissolved in 100 ml of solution. index usually refers to a percentage.
indigenous flora
synonymous with normal flora indicated the microbial population that lives with the host in a healthy condition
infarction
the formation of an area of necrosis in a tissue caused by obstruction in the artery supplying in the area
infection
the state or condition in which the body or a part of it is invaded by a pathogenic agent that under favorable conditions, multiplies and produces injurious effects
infection
the entry, establishment and multiplication of pathogenic organisms within a host
infiltration
the process of seepage or diffusion into tissue of substances that are not ordinarily present
inflammation
a tissue reaction to irritation, infection, or injury marked by localized heat, swelling, redness, pain, and omsetimes loss of function
inorganic chemistry
that branch of chemistry that studies the properties and reactions of elements, excluding organic or certain carbon containing compounds
insecticide
a substance that kills insects
integumentary
relating to the integument; a covering, such as the skin
intoxication
being poisoned by a drug or toxic substance
intracranial hemorrhage
extravasation of blood within the skull
iodophores
compound consisting of iodine combined with a carrier, such as polyvinylpyrrolidone, often used as a preoperative skin disinfectant
ion
an atomic or molecular species with a positive cation) or negative (anion) electrical charge ; an atom of an element or a group of atoms acting as one unit that has lost or gained an electron or electrons and exhibits a charge
ischemia
reduction in arterial blood supply
islet
a tiny isolated mass of one kind of tissue within another type
islets of langerhans
clusters of cells in the pancreas which produce insulin
isotonic solution
a solution having anequal concentration of dissolved solute as the solution to which it is compared
juandice
conditions characterized by excessive concentration of dissolved solute as the solution to which it is compared
joint
the point of juncture between two bones; an articulation
ketones
any class of organic compounds containing the carbonyl group
(C=O) group whose carbon atom is joined to two other carbon atoms; the carbonyl group occurs within the carbon chain.
Carbonyl Group - a chemical group composed of one carbon atom double bonded
larvacide
a substance that kills insect larva
lesion
specific pathologic structural and functional changes or both brough about by disease
lethal dose 50% (LD50)
the amount of a poison (or radiation) that will kill 50% of the group to which it has been administered
leukemia
disease characterized by the appearance of great numbers of immature and abnormal white blood cells
leucocytosis
increase in the number of white blood cells in the blood
leucopenia
abnormal reduction in the number of white blood cells in the blood
liquids
a substance that flows readily but does not tend to expand indefinitely
lobes
well defined parts of an organ separated by boundaries
local infection
infection cause by germs lodging and multiplying at one point in a tissue and remaining there
lymphoma
malignancy of lymphoid tissue
malformation; anomaly
a defect or deformity
mandibular fossa
the depression in the temporal bone into which the condyle of the mandible fits
margin
a boundary such as the edge of a structure
matter
anything that has mass and occupies space
max temp
temp above which bacterial growth will not take place
meatus
passage or opening
mechanical vector
living organism capable of transmitting infections by carrying th e disease agent on its external body parts or surfaces
medicolegal (forensic) pathology
study of disease to ascertain cause and manner of death
medulla
the inner or central portion of an organ in contrast to the outer portion or cortex
melena
blood in stool
mesophile
bacteria that prefer moderate temp and develop best at temperature s between 25C and 40C
metal
an element marked by luster, malleability, ductility, and conductivity of electricity and heat. metallic elements tend to form positive ions
metaplasia
replacement of one type of tissue into a form that is not normally found there
metastasis
transfer of a disease from its primary site to a distant location
microaerophilic
microorganism that requires very little free oxygen
microbiology
scientific study of microorganisms and their effecton other loving organisms
microscopic path; histopathology
study of microscopic changes that cells, tissues and organs undergo as a result of disease
mixed infection
infection caused by two or more organisms
mixtures
a combination of two or more substances not chemically united and NOT in definite proportion by mass
minimum lethal dose; MLD
the smallest does of a poison (or radiation) on record that produces death
minimum demperature
temp below which bacterial growth will not take place
modifying agents
chemicals for which there may be greatly varying demands predicted upon the type of embalming, the environment and the arterial fluid used
moist (wet) gangren
necrotic tissue that is wet as a result of inadequate veous drainage; may be accompanied by the invasion of saprophytic bacter
molecule
smallest unit of a compound which can exist alone; an aggregation of atoms
morbidity rate
relative incidence of a disease in the population or number of cases in a given time at a given population
mortality rate
number of deaths in a place or proportion of deaths to a population
mutualism
relationship in which organisms of two different species live in close association to the mutual benefit of each
mycology
the branch of science concerned with the study of fungi
mycoplasmas
bacteria of the mycoplasma genus that are found in humans and have no cells wall; the smallest free living organism presently known being intermediate in size between viruses and bacteria
myology
the study of muscles
nares
the nostrils
nasal septum
the partition that divides the nasal cavity into two sections
necrosis
pathological death of a tissue still a part of the living organism
neoplasm; tumor
the abnormal, excessive and uncontrolled multiplication of cells with the formation of a mass of new growth of tissue
neurology
the study of the nervous system
neutralization
the reaction of an acid and a base to produce salt and water
nonmetal
any element that is not a metal. nonmetals tend to form negative ions
non symbiotic
organisms that are free living and relationships are not required for survival
nosocomial
infection acquired in a hospital
occupational disease
a disease with an abnormally high rate of occurrence in member of the workforce
oils
a common name for a triacylglycerol that is a liquid at room temperature and contains a high percentage of unsaturated fatty acids
opportunist
an organism that exists as part of the normal flora but may beome pathogenic under certain conditions
optimum temp
temp at which organisms grow best
organic
a condition or disease in which there is a change in anatomy
organic chemistry
that branch of chemistry that deals with certain carbon containing compounds
orifice
the mouth, entrance, or outlet of any anatomical structure; an opening
osmosis
passage of pure solvent from a solution of lesser solute concentration to one of greater solute concentrtion when two solutions are separated by a semi permeable membrane which selectively prevents the passage of solute molecules but it is permeable to th
osmotic pressure
pressure that develops when two solutions of different concentrations are separated by a semipermeable membrane
ossicle
any small bone, especially one of the three bones of the middle ear
osteomalacia
a disease marked by softening of the bones due to faulty calcification in adulthood
osteomyelitis
inflammation of bone and bone marrow
osteoporosis
loss of bone density
oxides
a compound consisting of oxygen combined with only one other element
pandemic
a disease affecting the majority of the population of a large region or one that is epidemic at the same time in may different parts of the world
pandemic disease
epidemic, widespread, even of worldwide event
parasitism
an interactive relationship between two organisms in which one is harmed and the other benefits
parietal
pertaining to or forming, the wall of a cavity, pertaining to the parietal bone
parts per million; ppm
a method of expressing low concentrations; 1 ppm is equivalent to 1 milligram per liter
pathogenicity
the state of producing or being able to produce pathological changes and disease
pathological anatomy
study of structural changes in the body caused by disease
pathology
science that deals with the study of disease
pathogenesis
the manner in which a disease develops
pectoral
pertaining to the front of the chest
peptide bond
a bond formed from a dehydration reaction between the amino group on one amino acid with the carboxyl (organic acid) group on the other amino acid
periodic table
the tabular arrangement of the elements in order of increasing atomic number. this arrangement allows the columns of elements to represent the periodic recurrence of similar properties
peripheral
outer surface of the body or body part; occuring away from the center
perpendicular
at right angles to another surface
petechia
antemortem, pinpoint, extravascular blood discoloration visible as purplish hemorrhages of the skin
pH
power/ potential of hydrogen; a number signifying the acidity or alkalinity of a chemical solution; the measure of hydrogen ion concentration of a solution
phocomelia
congenital condition in which the proximal portions of the limbs are poorly developed or absent
physical changes
change in the for or state of matter without any change in chemical composition
physical properties
properties of a substance that are observed without a change in chemical composition, which include color, odor , taste, solubility, density, hardness, melting point,, and boiling point