Spasm Sudden, involuntary contraction of a muscle or group of muscles. Sphincter A ring of muscle that narrows or closes off a passageway by contracting. Splenectomy Surgical removal of the spleen. Staphylococcus A group of bacteria that can cause serious infections in various parts of the body. Steroid A group of chemicals, many normally found in the body.
Most steroids are hormones and affect body processes such as the overcoming of inflammation.
Steroids medication decreases inflammation and inhibits immune reactions. Stethoscope An instrument used for listening to sounds produced within the body. Streptococcus Bacteria responsible for diseases such as bacterial pneumonia, scarlet fever, and rheumatic fever. Suture Thread for sewing up wounds or surgical incisions. Stitches fashioned with the thread are also called sutures.