Dictionary

Body systems

Anatomy and the conditions of each body system, from the heart and lungs to the skin.

wartA small, rough, harmless growth on the skin caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

weltA raised, red or pale, often itchy area on the skin; also called a wheal.

WernickeThe name of a German neurologist, used in Wernicke encephalopathy (from low thiamine) and Wernicke aphasia (trouble understanding language).

Wernicke encephalopathyA sudden, serious brain disorder that results from a severe lack of thiamine (vitamin B1).

whealA raised, red or pale, itchy bump on the skin that comes and goes; a single hive.

wheezingA high-pitched, whistling sound made as air moves through narrowed airways.

white blood cellA blood cell that is part of the immune system and helps the body fight infection and other foreign material.

whole grainA grain that still has all three parts of the kernel, the bran, germ and endosperm.

Wilms tumorA cancer of the kidney that develops in young children.

withdrawalThe physical and mental symptoms that occur when a person stops or cuts down a substance the body has come to depend on.

woundA break or injury in the skin or the tissue under it.

wound healingThe body's process of repairing damaged skin and tissue.

wrinkleA crease or fold, either in the skin or in fabric such as bed sheets.