Glossary of Medical Terms (updated October 20, 2008) Our medical glossary includes definitions for terms related

to hepatitis and its treatment, and general medicine, health, and sexuality. Click on a link below for definitions of medical terms beginning with that letter. A C!"#G$%&'(M) O*+,-T./0123 A A !OM") 4ad5ecti6e A !OM%)A(78 the area of the body between the chest and pel6is. A -O,*T%O)8 the passage of nutrients, drugs, or water from the intestines into the bloodstream. A -T,ACT8 a written summary of the important points of a medical article. ACC"(",AT"8 speed up. ACC"(",AT"! A**,O/A(8 #!A regulations go6erning early marketing appro6al of promising drugs for life9threatening illnesses. AC"TAM%)O*$") 4also known as paracetomal78 an analgesic drug used to relie6e pain and reduce fe6er. Tylenol is the most well known brand name. AC+.%,"! %MM.)" !"#%C%")C2 -2)!,OM" 4A%!-78 a syndrome characteri:ed by suppression of the immune system, rendering the body susceptible to 6arious illnesses; the late, symptomatic stage of $%/ disease. ACT%GA((8 see ursodiol. ACT%/" %)#"CT%O)8 an infection in which a disease9causing microorganism is acti6ely replicating and infecting new cells. AC.*,"--.,"8 a traditional Chinese healing techni<ue in which finger pressure is applied to specific points on the body to treat disease and ameliorate symptoms. AC.*.)CT.,"8 a traditional Chinese healing techni<ue that in6ol6es inserting thin needles into different acupuncture points on the body. Acupuncture is belie6ed to impro6e the flow of <i, the body=s 6ital energy; it is used for many conditions, including pain and addiction. AC.T"8 rapid9onset, short9term initial stage of a disease. Contrast with chronic.

AC.T" $"*AT%T%-8 the initial stage of 6iral hepatitis following infection. %n $C/, acute hepatitis refers to the first six months of infection. A!A8 see Americans with !isabilities Act. A!!%T%/" "##"CT8 the combined effect of se6eral drugs that is the sum of the effects that would be produced by each of the drugs in the absence of the others. A!$",")C"8 following a prescribed treatment regimen, including correct dosage, timing, and number of doses per day. A!&.)CT T$",A*28 therapy gi6en in addition to a primary treatment. A!,")A( G(A)!8 one of a pair of glands located abo6e the kidneys. The adrenal medulla produces hormones such as adrenaline 4epinephrine7, while the adrenal cortex produces corticosteroids and androgens. A!/",-" ,"ACT%O) 4-%!" "##"CT78 an undesired action or effect of a drug or other treatment. A",O %C "1",C%-"8 a type of exercise 4e.g., running, swimming7 that makes the heart and lungs work harder to supply the muscles with oxygen. A#*8 see alpha9fetoprotein. A%!-8 see ac<uired immune deficiency syndrome. A(A)%)" AM%)OT,A)-#",A-" 4A(T; formerly -G*T78 an en:yme 4also called alanine transaminase7 produced in the li6er when the membranes of li6er cells break down. A(T le6els are measured to help assess the degree of li6er damage and determine how well $C/ treatment is working. A normal le6el is below >? %.@(. A( .#",O) 4albumin9interferon alpha Ab78 a form of time9released interferon under study to treat chronic $C/. !e6eloped by $uman Gnome -ciences. A( .M%)8 a blood protein produced by the li6er that plays a role in maintaining normal blood 6olume. A low albumin le6el is associated with li6er cirrhosis. A normal le6el is B.A9C.Dg. A(CO$O(%-M8 a disorder characteri:ed by excessi6e consumption of and dependence on alcohol. A(#",O)8 brand name of human leukocyte9deri6ed interferon9alpha9nB, produced by %-% *harmaceuticals.

A('A(%)" *$O-*$ATA-" 4A*78 an en:yme found in 6arious body tissues and fluids. Abnormal alkaline phosphatase le6els are associated with li6er disease and bone and muscle damage. A normal le6el is BC9EAC %.@(. A('A(O%!8 an organic compound found in plants. A((",G28 an abnormal immune response to an antigen 4allergen7 that does not normally cause an ad6erse reaction 4e.g., animal dander, pollen7. Allergic reactions are caused by the release of histamine by mast cells, a type of white blood cell. Allergic symptoms may include runny nose 4rhinitis7, skin rash, asthma, and anaphylactic shock. A((OG,A#T8 a transplant of genetically matched cells, tissues, or organs between two members of the same species. A((O*AT$2 4ad5ecti6e A((O*AT$%C78 0estern medicine; the con6entional medical practices used most often in the ..-. A(O*"C%A8 hair loss. A(*$A %)T",#",O)8 see interferon9alpha. A(*$A9#"TO*,OT"%) 4A#*78 a protein, measurable in the blood, that is often ele6ated in people with li6er cancer. A(*$A (%*O%C AC%! 4T$%OCT%C AC%!78 a compound that enhances the antioxidant effect of 6itamin C and 6itamin ", and may help reduce li6er inflammation and protect li6er cells from damage. A(T8 see alanine aminotransferase. A(T",)AT%/" T$",A*28 any type of treatment that is not considered standard or con6entional practice in a gi6en culture. %n 0estern countries, traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, and chiropractic are considered alternati6e therapies. AMA)TA!%)" 4brand name -2MM"T,"(78 a drug that is used to treat influen:a and is also under study as a treatment for chronic hepatitis C. AM")O,,$"A8 absence of menstrual periods. AM",%CA)- 0%T$ !%-A %(%T2 ACT 4A!A78 a federal law that re<uires employers to offer certain protections and benefits 4including Freasonable accommodationF7 to persons with disabilities that substantially limit ma5or life acti6ities. AM%)O AC%!8 an organic compound that is a basic structural unit of peptides and proteins. There are o6er EDD amino acids, eight of which are essential for human

metabolism. AM%)OT,A)-#",A-" 4T,A)-AM%)A-"78 an en:yme 4e.g., A(T, A-T7 produced by the li6er that cataly:es the transfer of amino acids. Abnormally high aminotransferase le6els in the blood suggest li6er damage. AMMO)%A8 a toxic metabolic byproduct that is normally excreted in the urine. AM)"-%A8 memory loss. AM*(%CO,@CO A(T AM*(%CO,8 brand name of a *C,9based 6iral load test for $C/ and $%/. A)A8 see antinuclear antibody A)A(G"-%C8 a drug or therapy that reduces pain. A)A(%)G.- 4,%MM%)G78 oral@anal sex. A)"C!OTA(8 e6idence based on reports of specific indi6idual cases rather than controlled clinical studies. A)"M%A 4ad5ecti6e A)"M%C78 reduced number of red blood cells or reduced ability of blood to carry oxygen. There are se6eral types of anemia, all with different causes. -ymptoms may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and difficulty breathing. A)"-T$"-%A 4ad5ecti6e A)"-T$"T%C78 an agent that controls pain. (ocali:ed anesthesia blocks pain in a gi6en area; general anesthesia produces unconsciousness. A).",2-M8 an abnormally stretched, dilated section of a blood 6essel that is prone to bursting. A)G%)A *"CTO,%-8 chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle recei6es inade<uate oxygen. A)O,"1%A8 loss of appetite for food. A)T% %OT%C8 an agent that kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria. A)T% O!2 4%MM.)OG(O .(%)78 a protein produced by plasma cells 4a type of immune system white blood cell7 when they encounter foreign in6aders. -pecific antibodies bind to specific in6aders, or antigens, and target them for destruction. The presence of antibodies indicates current infection with or past exposure to a pathogen. A)T% O!2 *O-%T%/" 4-",O*O-%T%/"78 the presence in the blood of antibodies against a specific pathogen such as $C/.

A)T% O!2 T"-T8 an assay that detects the presence of antibodies in a blood sample; "(%-A and ,% A tests are used to detect $C/ antibodies. A)T%COAG.(A)T8 a drug that reduces or delays blood coagulation or clotting. A)T%CO)/.(-A)T8 a drug that pre6ents or reduces con6ulsions or sei:ures. A)T%!"*,"--A)T8 a drug that ele6ates the mood and alle6iates mental depression. There are se6eral types, including selecti6e serotonin reuptake inhibitors 4--,%s7, MAO inhibitors, and tricyclics. A)T%"M"T%C8 a drug that relie6es nausea and 6omiting. A)T%#% ,OT%C8 a drug or other agent than pre6ents or reduces the de6elopment of li6er fibrosis or cirrhosis. A)T%G")8 any agent or substance that stimulates an immune response. Antigens are often foreign in6aders such as bacteria or 6iruses. A)T%$%-TAM%)"8 a drug that blocks the action of histamine, a chemical messenger in the body. Antihistamines are used to pre6ent or alle6iate allergic reactions and to reduce stomach acid production. A)T%).C("A, A)T% O!28 An antibody that attacks cell nuclei. A)T%O1%!A)T8 a substance that reduces oxidation by binding with and neutrali:ing free radicals. The body produces natural antioxidants, and they are also a6ailable in foods and dietary supplements 4e.g., 6itamin ", selenium7. A)T%,"T,O/%,A(8 a drug that suppresses the acti6ity or replication of retro6iruses. !ifferent types of antiretro6iral drugs 4e.g., re6erse transcriptase inhibitors, protease inhibitors7 interfere with 6arious stages of the 6irus life cycle. A)T%-")-" COM*O.)!-8 Compounds that target gene se<uences associated with diseases to interfere with the disease process. A)T%-")-" O(%GO).C("OT%!"8 an agent that blocks the synthesis of disease9 causing proteins by binding with and pre6enting translation of ,)A 4genetic material7. $C/ antisense oligodeoxynucleotides are directed against a specific $C/ genetic se<uence and inhibit 6iral gene expression. A)T%/%,A(8 a drug that suppresses the acti6ity or replication of 6iruses. A)1%O(2T%C8 a drug that helps relie6e mental anxiety.

A*(A-T%C A)"M%A8 anemia due to a reduced le6el of red blood cells caused by the inability of stem cells in the bone marrow to produce new cells. Certain drugs suppress the bone marrow and can lead to aplastic anemia as a side effect. A,M8 a group of participants in a clinical trial who recei6e the same treatment 4or placebo7. A,T",%OG,A*$2 4A)G%OG,A*$278 examination of arteries 4after in5ection of a dye7 to look for damage and blockages. A,T$,A(G%A8 5oint pain. A,T$,%T%-8 5oint inflammation. A-C%T"-8 accumulation of fluid in the abdominal 4peritoneal7 ca6ity. Ascites may be a symptom of ad6anced li6er disease with decompensated cirrhosis. A-*A,TAT" AM%)OT,A)-#",A-" 4A-T, formerly -GOT78 an en:yme 4also called aspartate transaminase7 produced in the li6er. 0hen li6er cells are damaged, A-T is released. "le6ated le6els may indicate li6er disease, but are also seen in people with muscle damage. A normal le6el is below >A %.@(. A--A28 a test, especially one used to detect the presence or amount of an agent in the blood or body tissues. A-T8 see aspartate aminotransferase. A-T,AGA(.-8 an herb used to stimulate the immune system. %t is an ingredient in many Chinese herbal formulas. A-9T,"AT"! A)A(2-%-8 a method of analy:ing the results of a clinical trial that includes only participants who successfully complete a course of the treatment, excluding those who drop out early. Contrast with intent9to9treat analysis. A-2M*TOMAT%C8 not feeling or showing outward symptoms or signs of a disease. AT$",O-C(",O-%-8 a condition in which blood 6essels harden and loose their elasticity due to the build9up of fatty material 4pla<ues7. A.TOA)T% O!28 an antibody that targets the body=s own tissues. A.TO%MM.)" ,"-*O)-" 4A.TO%MM.)%T278 a condition in which a person=s immune system produces antibodies that attack the body=s own tissues. -e6eral conditions associated with ad6anced hepatitis C 4e.g., lichen planus, -5Ggren=s syndrome7 appear to ha6e an autoimmune aspect.

A.TO%MM.)" T$2,O%!%T%-8 an inflammatory, autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. A2.,/"!A8 a system of traditional medicine practiced in %ndia. ack to top

ACT",%.M 4plural ACT",%A78 a simple single9celled microorganism. acteria are classified by their shape 4e.g., rod, spirochete7, staining properties 4Gram positi6e or Gram negati6e7 and habitat 4aerobic, anaerobic7. A-"(%)"8 an initial or known 6alue 4e.g., A(T le6el, $C/ 6iral load7 against which later measurements can be compared. 9C"(( 4 9(2M*$OC2T"78 a type of immune system white blood cell. 9cells mature into plasma cells that produce antibodies. b!)A8 see branched9chain !)A assay. "C' !"*,"--%O) %)!"18 a written, self9report <uestionnaire used to gauge clinical depression. "$C"T=- !%-"A-"8 a disease that presents as ulcerations in the eyes, mouth and genitals but can affect any organ of the body. ")%G)8 a mild, non9lethal illness, especially a non9cancerous tumor. Contrast with malignant. %A-8 in a clinical trial, a false association that results from to the failure to account for some skewing or influencing factor. %!8 taken twice daily. %("8 a yellowish9green fluid produced by the li6er that aids in the digestion of fats and the excretion of toxins. %(" !.CT8 the passage that carries bile from the li6er to the small intestine. %(%,. %)8 a yellowish pigment released when red blood cells are broken down. )ormally bilirubin is processed and excreted by the li6er. An excess le6el of bilirubin in the blood 4hyperbilirubinemia7 may indicate li6er damage, and can lead to 5aundice 4yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes7, pale9colored stools, and dark urine. A normal bilirubin le6el is below E.Bmg.

%)!%)G *,OT"%)8 a protein synthesi:ed by the li6er that binds to and transports substances such as 6itamins, minerals, hormones, and fats. %OA/A%(A %(%T28 the degree to which a drug or other substance is absorbed and circulated in the body. %OC$"M%CA( ,"-*O)-" 4 %O(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-"78 a fa6orable response to treatment as indicated by normali:ation of blood 6alues 4e.g., li6er en:yme le6els7. %O#""! AC'8 a techni<ue in which people learn to use signals from their own bodies to influence physiological functions. %O#(A/%)O%! 4/%TAM%) *78 natural pigments found in fruits and 6egetables that increase absorption of 6itamin C. %O(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-"8 see biochemical response. %O*-2 4 178 a procedure in which a sample of cells or tissue is taken for laboratory examination. (i6er biopsies are used to monitor li6er disease progression in people with $C/. (%)!%)G8 a method of conducting clinical trials in which participants do not know who is taking an experimental treatment, a standard 4control7 treatment, or a placebo. %n a blinded study, the 6olunteers do not know what treatment 4if any7 they are recei6ing. %n a double9blind study, neither the 6olunteers nor the researchers administering the treatment know who is recei6ing what. linding is done to reduce bias in drug trials. %n the case of medical necessity, a study may be unblinded to re6eal who is recei6ing what treatment. (OO!9 O,)"8 a pathogen that is transmitted through direct blood9to9blood contact, for example, through sharing dirty needles or through a blood transfusion. (OO! T,A)-#.-%O)8 the infusion of blood or blood components into an indi6idual for the treatment of a medical condition. Transfusions may be homologous 4from a donor7 or autologous 4pre6iously stored blood from the recipient7. M%8 see body mass index. O!2 MA-- %)!"1 4 M%78 a measurement of body fat determined by di6iding a person=s weight 4in kilograms7 by height 4in meters s<uared7. O!20O,'8 healing techni<ues 4e.g., massage therapy, reflexology7 that in6ol6e manipulating or applying pressure to the body. O)" MA,,O08 the soft, spongy material inside certain long bones where blood cells are produced.

,A%) #OG8 mild mental confusion, memory loss, and@or lack of concentration and alertness. May be a symptom of toxic chemical build9up due to impaired li6er function. -ee hepatic encephalopathy. ,A)C$"!9C$A%) !)A A--A2 4b!)A78 an test that measures the amount of 6irus 46iral load7 in plasma or tissues using a chemical signal emitted by 6iral genetic material. ,"A'T$,O.G$8 the return of detectable 6iral load or high A(T le6els in a person who had pre6iously achie6ed a good 6irological or biochemical treatment response. .!!%)G8 the emergence of newly produced 6irus particles through a host cell membrane. .) 4 lood urea nitrogen78 a test that measures the amount of a certain waste product 4nitrogen7 excreted by the kidneys. .*(".,.M8 an herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat li6er conditions. 18 see iopsy. ack to top C CA!A/",8 the body of a dead person. CA!A/",%C !O)O,8 a recently deceased person who has donated an organ or tissue. CA)C",8 a malignant neoplasm or tumor characteri:ed by abnormal cell proliferation. Types include carcinoma 4which affects epithelial cells7, sarcoma 4which affects soft tissues7, lymphoma and leukemia 4which affect lymphoid tissue7, and glioma 4which affects brain tissue7. CA)%T%"-8 a condition that causes premature graying of the hair. CA*%((A,%"-8 tiny blood 6essels that deli6er oxygen and nutrients to and remo6e waste products from cells. CA, O$2!,AT"8 an organic molecule composed mainly of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. Carbohydrates constitutes a ma5or class of nutrients, and are present in foods such as bread and pasta. CA,C%)OG")8 an agent that promotes the de6elopment of cancer. CA,C%)OMA8 a malignant tumor of the epithelial cells that line body surfaces and ca6ities. Carcinoma in situ refers to an early stage of cancer that has not in6aded

surrounding tissues. CA,!%AC8 ha6ing to do with the heart. CA,!%O/A-C.(A,8 ha6ing to do with to the circulatory system 4the heart and blood 6essels7. CA,,%",8 a person who does not show symptoms or ha6e acti6e disease, but who carries an infectious organism and can transmit it to others. CA-" -T.!28 a description of a specific clinical case, that is, the de6elopment of disease and response to treatment in a single indi6idual. CA-.A( CO)TACT8 non9intimate contact between indi6iduals 4e.g., hugging, eating, working together7 that does not in6ol6e transfer of body fluids and therefore does not pose a risk for transmission of blood9borne diseases. CAT"GO,2 A, , C, !, 18 an #!A classification for drug safety during pregnancy. Category A drugs ha6e not shown a risk to fetuses in controlled studies. Category 1 includes drugs which animal and human studies or common experience ha6e shown to cause fetal abnormalities or miscarriages. C C8 see complete blood count. C!> C"(( 4C!> (2M*$OC2T", T9$"(*", C"((78 a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection. C!> C"(( CO.)T8 the number of C!> lymphocytes in one cubic millimeter 4mmB7 of blood. The C!> count is one indicator of the progression of $%/ disease. A C!> count below ADD cells@mmB is a diagnostic criteria for A%!-. C!? C"(( 4C!? (2M*$OC2T"78 a type of white blood cell that helps regulate and@or carry out the body=s immune response. C!? cells include T9suppressor cells and cytotoxic T9lymphocytes. C!C8 see Centers for !isease Control and *re6ention. C"((8 the basic unit of li6ing organisms. A cell contains a nucleus and a cell wall 4in plants7 or a cell membrane 4in animals7 which surrounds the cellular material, called cytoplasm. C")T",- #O, !%-"A-" CO)T,O( A)! *,"/")T%O) 4C!C78 the ..-. federal go6ernment agency within the !epartment of $ealth and $uman -er6ices that monitors the occurrence of diseases and de6elops policies for pre6enting disease and maintaining the health of the population.

C")T,A( )",/O.- -2-T"M 4C)-78 the brain and spinal cord. C"*(")"8 see histamine dihydrochloride. C"," ,A( /A-C.(%T%- a disorder characteri:ed by inflammation and cell death in arteries. C"," ,O/A-C.(A,8 ha6ing to do with the flow of blood to the brain. C"," ,O/A-C.(A, ACC%!")T8 see stroke. C"-A,"A) -"CT%O) 4C9-"CT%O)78 a deli6ery procedure that in6ol6es making an incision through the abdominal wall to remo6e an infant from the uterus 4womb7. C#%!-8 chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome. -ee chronic fatigue syndrome. C$"MO'%)"8 a chemical, secreted by certain immune system cells, that acts as a messenger between cells and stimulates the acti6ity of cells. C$"MOT$",A*28 the use of drugs to treat disease. C$%,O*,ACT%C8 a system of treatment based on manipulation of the spine. C$O(AGOG."8 an agent 4especially an herb7 that impro6es bile flow. C$O(A)G%T%-8 inflammation of the bile duct, often characteri:ed by 5aundice. C$O("-TA-%-8 obstruction of the flow of bile between the li6er, the gall bladder, and the small intestine. C$O("-T",O(8 a fatty substance in animal tissue that is an essential component of cell membranes, certain hormones, and ner6e fiber insulation. Cholesterol is manufactured by the li6er, and is also present in certain foods. There are two primary types of cholesterol in the blood, low9density lipoprotein 4(!(7, which is considered a risk factor for heart disease; and high9density lipoprotein 4$!(7, which is considered protecti6e. C$,O)%C8 a long9term or persistent disease. Contrast with acute. C$,O)%C ACT%/" $"*AT%T%-8 a condition in which $C/ or $ / continues to replicate and infect new cells after six months. C$,O)%C #AT%G." -2)!,OM" 4C$,O)%C #AT%G." %MM.)" !2-#.)CT%O) -2)!,OM", C#%!-78 an illness characteri:ed by prolonged fatigue, neurological problems, 5oint and muscle pain, and@or impairment of the ability to function normally for six months or longer.

C$,O)%C $"*AT%T%-8 li6er inflammation lasting longer than six months. C%,,$O-%-8 a type of li6er damage in which normal li6er cells are replaced with fibrous scar tissue. %n compensated cirrhosis, the li6er is damaged but can still function. %n decompensated cirrhosis, li6er function is se6erely impaired and scar tissue interferes with normal blood flow through the li6er, potentially leading to bleeding 6arices, ascites, Fbrain fog,F and other symptoms. C("A,A)C"8 remo6al or elimination, e.g., of a 6irus or drug from the body. C(%)%CA(8 relating to the treatment of patients. A clinical obser6ation is based on a person=s obser6ed condition and symptoms, as distinguished from laboratory findings. C(%)%CA( T,%A( 4C(%)%CA( -T.!278 an organi:ed procedure for determining the effecti6eness of a new drug or therapy by administering the agent to 6olunteers under controlled conditions. %n many clinical trials, new treatments are compared against older standard treatments or an inacti6e substance 4placebo7. C(OT8 a sticky mass of coagulated blood cells and platelets. C(OTT%)G #ACTO, 4COAG.(AT%O) #ACTO,78 a protein 4e.g., fibrinogen, prothrombin, #actor /%%%7 that is necessary for normal blood clotting. -e6eral clotting factors are synthesi:ed by the li6er and production may be impaired when the li6er is damaged. *eople with clotting factor deficiencies may experience prolonged bleeding and easy bruising. CO A(AM%)8 see 6itamin EA. CO"M32M" +ED8 an antioxidant agent that is necessary for the proper acti6ity of certain en:ymes. CO#ACTO,8 a factor that influences the progression of a disease or the action of a disease9causing agent. COG)%T%/" !2-#.)CT%O)8 reduction in mental functioning and ability to carry out tasks that re<uire thinking, planning, and memory. CO$O,T8 a group of indi6iduals in a study who share a demographic, clinical, or other characteristic. CO%)#"CT%O)8 concurrent infection with more than one disease9causing organism 4e.g., $C/ and $%/7. CO(O)29-T%M.(AT%)G #ACTO, 4C-#78 a cytokine responsible for regulating the production of white blood cells. Types include granulocyte colony9stimulating factor 4G9 C-#7 and granulocyte macrophage colony9stimulating factor 4GM9C-#7.

CO(O-T,.M8 breast fluid produced during the first few days after a baby=s birth 4prior to milk production7 that contains proteins, immunoglobulins, and immune cells. COMA8 a state of deep unconsciousness; a 6egetati6e state. COM %)AT%O) T$",A*28 use of two or more drugs together to impro6e the effecti6eness of treatment. %n $C/ treatment, the term most often refers to the use of interferon plus riba6irin. Contrast with monotherapy. COM*A--%O)AT" .-"8 an #!A classification that allows indi6iduals to use experimental drugs prior to their appro6al for a serious illness for which there is no other suitable treatment. COM*")-AT"! C%,,$O-%-8 see cirrhosis. COM*("M")TA,2 T$",A*28 an alternati6e therapy that is used in con5unction with a standard 0estern treatment. COM*("T" (OO! CO.)T 4C C78 an in6entory of the cellular components of the blood, including red blood cell count, hematocrit and hemoglobin, white blood cell count, and platelet count. COM*.T"! TOMOG,A*$2 -CA) 4CT -CA)78 a method of 6iewing the soft tissues of the body using 19rays. CO)!OM8 a sheath made of latex, polyurethane, or animal membrane that is worn o6er the penis to hold e5aculated semen. Condoms are used to pre6ent pregnancy; latex and polyurethane condoms also protect against $%/, $C/ and certain other sexually transmitted diseases. The Ffemale condomF 4,eality7 is an internal pouch worn inside the 6agina or anus. CO)#%!")C" %)T",/A(8 a statistical measure of the likelihood that an experimental result is FtrueF and not the result of chance alone. CO)G")%TA(8 present from birth. CO)G"-T%/" $"A,T #A%(.,"8 heart dysfunction that leads to a build9up of fluids in the body. CO)&.)CT%/%T%-8 inflammation of the con5uncti6a, a membrane that co6er the eye and lines the eyelid. CO)-")-.- %)T",#",O)8 a preparation that contains a 6ariety of different types of interferon.

CO)T,AC"*T%O)8 birth control; a de6ice or method that pre6ents conception 4fertili:ation7, implantation, or successful gestation. CO)T,A%)!%CAT%O)8 any circumstance or condition that makes a drug or other method of treatment inad6isable in a particular case. CO)T,O( A,M8 a comparison group in a clinical trial that is used to 6erify an experimental result. A control group is typically gi6en an older standard treatment or a placebo rather than the new experimental treatment under study. CO)T,O(("! T,%A(8 a clinical trial in which a group recei6ing an experimental treatment is compared to a control group that is gi6en a standard treatment or a placebo. CO*"G.-8 ,ocheHs brand of riba6irin. see ,% A/%,%). CO,"8 the inner part of a 6irus that contains its genetic material. CO,O)A,2 A,T",2 !%-"A-"8 damage to or blockage of the arteries that pro6ide blood to the heart muscle. CO,T%CO-T",O%!8 a steroid hormone 4e.g., prednisone, cortisone7 produced by the cortex of the adrenal gland or manufactured synthetically. Corticosteroids ha6e anti9 inflammatory and immunosuppressi6e properties, and are used to treat a 6ariety of conditions. C,"AT%)%)"8 a metabolic byproduct produced by muscles; high le6els in the blood may indicate kidney dysfunction. C,"-T -2)!,OM"8 a type of scleroderma characteri:ed by a 6ariety of different symptoms 4primarily calcinosis, ,aynaud=s phenomenon, esophageal dysfunction, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia7. C,2OG(O .(%)8 an abnormal immune protein. C,2OG(O .(%)"M%A8 a condition in which cryoglobulins form in the blood. 0hen the blood is cooled, the cryoglobulins clump together, causing the blood to thicken and restricting blood flow. "ssential mixed cryoglobulinemia occurs in many people with $C/, although most do not experience symptoms. C,2O-.,G",28 remo6al of damaged or cancerous tissue by free:ing. CT -CA)8 see computed tomography scan. C.(T.,"8 a method of growing a microorganism in a laboratory. C.))%(%)G.-8 oral sex on a woman; contact between the mouth and the 6ul6a or

6agina. C.TA)"O.-8 relating to the skin. C2-T"%)"8 an amino acid; one of the building blocks of glutathione. C2TO'%)"8 a chemical messenger 4e.g., interferon, interleukin, tumor necrosis factor7 produced by white blood cells. Cytokines coordinate se6eral aspects of the immune response, including stimulating antibody production and acti6ating killer T9cells. C2TO*")%A8 low le6els of blood cells. C2TO*(A-M8 the material that makes up the interior of a cell. C2TO*,OT"CT%/"8 an agent that protects cells from damage. C2TOTO1%C T9(2M*$OC2T" 4CT(, '%((", T9C"((78 a type of C!? white blood cell that targets and kills cells infected with 6iruses, bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms. ack to top ! !ATA 4singular !AT.M78 factual information, especially results of an experiment or clinical trial. !ATA A)! -A#"T2 MO)%TO,%)G OA,! 4!-M 78 a group of experts that e6aluates clinical trials for safety and ethics. !-M s typically examine interim data as a trial progresses and determine whether it should be stopped or allowed to continue. !"COM*")-AT"! C%,,$O-%-8 see cirrhosis. !"COM*")-AT%O)8 a failure of the li6er to compensate for damage or in5ury; decrease or breakdown of li6er function. !"$2!,AT%O)8 loss or lack of water in the body. !ehydration may result from prolonged 6omiting or diarrhea, and may disrupt many bodily processes. !"(%,%.M8 a state of mental confusion, typically acute and rapid in onset, that may be caused by factors including disease, drug use, or high fe6er. !"(TA $"*AT%T%-8 see hepatitis !. !"M")T%A8 chronic loss of mental capacity. !ementia may in6ol6e progressi6e deterioration of thinking, memory, and motor function, and may also be associated with

personality changes and psychological symptoms such as depression. !"MOG,A*$%C-8 the characteristics of a population 4e.g., sex, race, age7. !")TA( !AM8 a flat s<uare of latex or plastic, traditionally used for dental surgery, that can be used to protect against the spread of sexually transmitted diseases during oral sex. !"O12,% O).C("%C AC%! 4!)A78 a double9stranded nucleic acid that encodes genetic information. !)A is made up of four chemical building blocks 4nucleotides78 adenine, cytosine, guanine, and thymine. !"*,"--%O) 4!2-T$2M%A78 a mood disorder characteri:ed by prolonged sadness or grief. !"TO1%#%CAT%O)8 remo6al of toxic 4poisonous7 substances. !etoxification of the blood is an important function of the li6er. !%A "T"- M"((%T.- 4!M78 a disease caused by insufficient insulin production or lack of responsi6eness to insulin. Type E 4insulin9dependent or 5u6enile9onset7 diabetes results from an inability of the body to produce insulin. Type A 4non9insulin9dependent or adult9onset7 diabetes occurs later is life and is associated with decreased insulin production or insulin resistance. !%AG)O-%-8 the determination of the existence of a disease or condition. !iagnosis generally in6ol6es an e6aluation of a person=s medical history, clinical symptoms, and laboratory test results. !%A(2-%-8 a method for filtering waste from the blood that replaces the function of the kidneys that are not working properly. !%A,,$"A8 fre<uent, loose bowel mo6ements. !iarrhea may be caused by a 6ariety of factors, including microorganisms and as a side effect of certain drugs. *ersistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and inade<uate nutrient absorption. !%"T%T%A)8 a medical professional speciali:ing in dietetics, the study of nutrition and the use of special diets to pre6ent and treat disease. !%G"-T%/" -2-T"M8 the organs 4mouth, pharyrnx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus7 associated with ingestion and digestion of food. !%-CO,!A)T8 not ha6ing the same serostatus, for example a couple in which one partner is $C/ positi6e and the other is $C/ negati6e. !%.,"T%C8 an agent that increases loss of water from the body through urination.

!M8 see diabetes mellitus. !)A8 see deoxyribonucleic acid. !O-AG"8 the amount of a drug that is gi6en at one time. !O-"9,A)G%)G T,%A(8 a clinical trial in which different doses of a drug are compared to determine which dosage has the best balance of effecti6eness and acceptable side effects. !O-$A8 one of the three bodily humors 46ata, pitta, and kapha,7 recogni:ed in Ayur6edic medicine. !O. ("9 (%)!8 see blinding. !,.G %)T",ACT%O)8 a phenomenon that occurs when multiple drugs are taken together or drugs are taken with certain herbs or foods. !rug interactions may enhance or reduce the action of a drug and may increase its side effects. !18 abbre6iation for diagnosis. !2-#.)CT%O)8 lack or loss of normal function. !2-*(A-%A 4ad5ecti6e !2-*(A-T%C78 abnormal cell or tissue growth. !2-T$2M%A8 see depression. ack to top " "A,(2 /%,O(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-" 4"/,78 the probability of achie6ing a sustained 6irological response early in treatment based on the decline in $C/ ,)A 46iral load7. The generally accepted timeframe is EA weeks after starting treatment. "C3"MA8 a type of skin rash. "!"MA8 swelling caused by accumulation of fluid in body tissues. "##%CAC28 effecti6eness; the ability to achie6e a desired result. "(%-A@"(%-A %%8 see en:yme9linked immunosorbent assay. "M O(%-M8 a blood clot that tra6els through the bloodstream and becomes lodged in a blood 6essel, causing a blockage.

")C"*$A(O*AT$28 disease of the brain. -ee also hepatic encephalopathy. ")!9O#9T,"ATM")T ,"-*O)-" 4"OT or "T,78 undetectable $C/ ,)A at the completion of treatment 4typically 0eek A> for genotypes A or B; 0eek >? for genotype E7. ")!OC,%)"8 endocrine glands are ductless glands that regulate bodily functions 6ia hormones secreted into the bloodstream. The endocrine system includes the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads 4o6aries and testes7. ")!O-CO*28 a method of examining the interior of a body ca6ity or hollow organ 4e.g., esophagus, stomach7 using an endoscope, a narrow, flexible fiber optic instrument that conducts light. ")!OT$"(%.M 4ad5ecti6e ")!OT$"(%A(78 a layer of cells that lines blood and lymph 6essels, the heart, and 6arious body ca6ities. ")!*O%)T8 a marker of disease progression. "ndpoints may be clinical manifestations 4e.g., disease symptoms, death7 or laboratory results such as A(T le6el or 6iral load 4sometimes called surrogate markers7. ")!9-TAG" ,")A( !%-"A-" 4"-,!78 kidney failure. "),O((M")T C,%T",%A8 factors used to determine whether a person is eligible to participate in a clinical trial. -ee also inclusion criteria, exclusion criteria. ")T",%C8 ha6ing to do with the intestines. ")T",%C $"*AT%T%-8 see hepatitis ". ")/"(O*"8 the outer coat of a 6irus. ")32M"8 a protein that induces or accelerates a chemical reaction. ")32M"9(%)'"! %MM.)O-O, ")T A--A2 4"(%-A, "(%-A %%78 a laboratory test used to detect the presence of antibodies in the blood. "OT8 see end9of9treatment response. "*%!"M%O(OG28 the study of the fre<uency, distribution, and beha6ior of a disease within a population. "*%/%,8 see lami6udine. "*O8 see erythropoietin.

"*OG")8 see erythropoietin. ",A!%CAT%O) 46erb ",A!%CAT"78 the complete elimination of an organism from the body. ",2T$,OC2T"8 a mature red blood cell. "rythrocytes transport oxygen to the tissues of the body. ",2T$,O*O%"T%) 4"*O%"T%), "*O78 a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells. Genetically engineered "*O 4brand names *rocrit, "pogen7 is used to treat certain types of anemia. "-O*$AG.- 4ad5ecti6e "-O*$AG"A(78 the swallowing tube; the portion of the digesti6e tract between the mouth and the stomach. "-,!8 see end9stage renal disease. "--")T%A( M%1"! C,2OG(O .(%)"M%A8 see cryoglobulinemia. "-T,OG")8 the primary female sex hormone or a synthetic analog. "strogens stimulate the de6elopment of female secondary sex characteristics and regulate the reproducti6e cycle in women. "T%O(OG28 the cause of a disease. "1AC", AT"8 to worsen or make more se6ere. "1C(.-%O) C,%T",%A8 conditions that dis<ualify someone from participating in a clinical trial. Contrast with inclusion criteria. "1*",%M")TA( A,M8 the group of participants in a clinical trial that recei6es the new experimental treatment under study. "1*",%M")TA( !,.G8 a new drug that is being tested as a treatment for a specific condition and has not yet been appro6ed by the #!A for use. "1T,A$"*AT%C8 outside the li6er. ack to top # #ACTO, /%%%8 a protein synthesi:ed by the li6er that is necessary for proper blood clotting. #A%(.," TO T$,%/"8 a condition in which an infant loses or fails to gain weight and

de6elops at a slower rate than expected. #A(-"9)"GAT%/"8 a negati6e test result in a person who in fact has the disease or condition being tested. Contrast with false9positi6e. #A(-"9*O-%T%/"8 a positi6e test result in for a person who in fact does not ha6e the disease or condition being tested. Contrast with false9negati6e. #A-C%C.(AT%O)8 an in6oluntary muscle contraction. #A-T T,AC'8 a designation by the #ood and !rug Administration to help facilitate the de6elopment and to expedite the re6iew process for an experimental drug that has the potential to address an unmet medical need for a serious or life9threatening condition. #AT%G."8 unusual, prolonged, or excessi6e tiredness. #AT9-O(. ("8 capable of being dissol6ed in fat. Contrast water9soluble. #ATT2 AC%!8 an organic molecule made up of a hydrocarbon chain and a carboxylic acid group. #atty acids may be saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated. #!A8 see #ood and !rug Administration. #" ,%("8 ha6ing a fe6er or increased body temperature. #"CA(9O,A( ,O.T"8 a route of transmission of infectious organisms which in6ol6es the transfer of fecal matter to the mouth 4e.g., by ingesting contaminated food or water, oral@anal sex7. #"C"- 4ad5ecti6e #"CA(78 excrement; excreted waste matter. #"((AT%O8 oral sex on a man; contact between the mouth and the penis. #"MA(" CO)!OM8 see condom. #% ,OM2A(G%A 4#% ,OM2O-%T%-78 a condition characteri:ed by pain throughout the body, often accompanied by fatigue. #,% ,OM2O-%T%-8 see fibromyalgia. #% ,O-%- 4ad5ecti6e #% ,OT%C78 li6er damage in which fibrous tissue de6elops and replaces normal cells. #% ,%)OG")8 a factor produced by the li6er that is necessary for proper blood clotting. #%(G,A-T%M8 see granulocyte colony9stimulating factor.

#%)"9)""!(" A-*%,AT%O) %O*-28 a type of li6er biopsy in which a tissue sample is withdrawn using a 6ery fine needle. #(A," 4#(A,"9.*78 a sudden, acute worsening of disease symptoms. #(AT.(")C"8 excessi6e intestinal gas. #(A/%/%,.-8 a group of 6iruses, se6eral of which cause diseases in humans. $C/ is related to fla6i6iruses, and some taxonomists consider the $epaci6irus genus to be part of the #la6i6iridae family. #(.MA!%)"8 see rimantadine. #O(%C AC%! 4#O(AT"78 a 6itamin necessary for red blood cell production and proper neurological function; folic acid also helps pre6ents neural tube defects in fetuses. #OO! A)! !,.G A!M%)%-T,AT%O) 4#!A78 the ..-. federal agency responsible for regulating the de6elopment, use, and safety of drugs, medical de6ices, cosmetics, and related products. The #!A appro6es new experimental drugs based on the results of clinical trials. #OO! G.%!" *2,AM%!8 a diagram showing what foods are included in a balanced diet. A healthy diet includes I9EE ser6ings of breads and grains 4the bottom le6el of the pyramid7; B9C ser6ings of 6egetables; A9> ser6ings of fruit; A9B ser6ings of meat, fish, beans, or nuts; A9B ser6ings of dairy products; and limited fats and oils. #,"" ,A!%CA(8 a molecule that contains an unpaired electron. #ree radicals are a byproduct of normal metabolism. They are highly reacti6e and bind with other molecules. The FtheftF of electrons by free radicals can disrupt normal cellular processes and cause cellular damage 4oxidati6e stress7. -ee also antioxidant. #.(M%)A)T8 an unusually se6ere or aggressi6e form of a disease. #.(M%)A)T $"*AT%T%-8 a se6ere, life9threatening form of hepatitis. ack to top G GA(( (A!!",8 an organ beneath the li6er where bile is stored. GAMMA G(O .(%)8 a preparation of antibodies in5ected to pre6ent or treat infection. Gamma globulin is used as postexposure pre6ention for hepatitis A and hepatitis . GAMMA9G(.TAM2( T,A)-*"*T%!A-" 4GGT78 a li6er en:yme. "le6ated GGT

le6els may indicate bile obstruction and li6er damage. A normal GGT le6el is BD9ID %.@(. GA) CAO8 see licorice root. GA-T,O")T",%T%-8 inflammation of the stomach and intestines. GA-T,O")T",O(OG2 4also GA-T,O")T",O(OG%-T78 the medical specialty that deals with the digesti6e system; a gastroenterologist treats digesti6e diseases. GA-T,O%)T"-T%)A(8 ha6ing to do with the digesti6e system, especially the stomach and intestines. GA-T,O%)T"-T%)A( T,ACT8 the digesti6e tube consisting of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus. G /%,.- C 4G /9C78 see hepatitis G 6irus. G9C-#8 see granulocyte colony9stimulating factor. G")" 4ad5ecti6e G")"T%C78 the basic unit of heredity. Genes contain hereditary information encoded in the form of !)A 4or ,)A in some 6iruses7. %n animal and plant cells, genes are located on the chromosome in a cell=s nucleus. G")" T$",A*28 an approach to pre6enting or treating disease by replacing, remo6ing, or introducing genes, or otherwise manipulating genetic material. G")",%C !,.G8 a drug that is not protected by a patent and may be produced by any manufacturer. G")",%C )AM"8 a common name used to identify a drug, as opposed to a brand name used by a particular company for marketing 4e.g., pegylated interferon is the generic name of the drug marketed under the brand names *eg9%ntron and *egasys7. G")"T%C ")G%)"",%)G8 manipulation of an organism=s genetic material to modify the proteins it produces. G")"T%C MAT",%A(8 deoxyribonucleic acid 4!)A7 and ribonucleic acid 4,)A7, the molecules that carry hereditary information. G")OM"8 the complete genetic code or FblueprintF of an organism. G")OT2*"8 the genetic makeup of an organism. $C/ has six ma5or genotypes 4designated by the numbers E through I7. %n the ..-., genotype Ea@b is most pre6alent, and also more difficult to treat. -ee also <uasispecies.

G%8 see gastrointestinal. G(O .(%)8 see immunoglobulin. G(OM",.(.- 4plural G(OM",.(%78 a small capillary bed in the kidney where blood filtration takes place. G(OM",.(O)"*$,%T%-8 an inflammatory disorder of the glomeruli, often due to the build9up of cryoglobulins. G(.CO)"OG")"-%-8 the con6ersion of glycogen to glucose in the li6er. G(.CO-" 4 (OO! -.GA,78 a form of sugar that is the body=s primary fuel. The li6er stores glucose after meals and releases it again as needed. Abnormally low or high le6els of glucose in the blood may indicate a metabolic disturbance 4e.g., diabetes7. G(.CO-"9I9*$O-*$AT" !"$2!,OG")A-" 4GI*!78 a human red blood cell en:yme. GI*! deficiency can cause se6ere anemia. G(.CO-%!A-" %)$% %TO,-8 %nhibitors of endoplasmic reticulum 4",7, J9glucosidase has been shown to inhibit 6iral replication and secretion. G(.TAT$%O)"8 a natural antioxidant found in the body. G(2C%)"8 an amino acid; one of the building blocks of glutathione. G(2COG")8 a carbohydrate stored in body tissues. The li6er con6erts glucose from food into glycogen and stores it for later use. 0hen needed, the li6er con6erts glycogen back into glucose. G(2C2,,$%3%)8 see licorice root. GM9C-#8 see granulocyte macrophage colony9stimulating factor. G,A#T8 a transplanted organ or tissue. G,A).(OC2T"8 a type of immune system white blood cell 4e.g., neutrophil, basophil, eosinophil7 that releases toxic chemicals to kill in6ading microorganisms and mediate allergic reactions. G,A).(OC2T" CO(O)29-T%M.(AT%)G #ACTO, 4G9C-#78 a cytokine that stimulates the production of granulocytes. Genetically engineered G9C-# 4filgrastim; brand name )eupogen7 is used to treat neutropenia. G,A).(OC2T" MAC,O*$AG" CO(O)29-T%M.(AT%)G #ACTO, 4GM9C-#78 a cytokine that stimulates growth of granulocytes and macrophages, two types of white

blood cell. Genetically engineered GM9C-# 4sargramostim; brand names (eukine, *rokine7 is used to treat neutropenia. G,A).(OC2TO*")%A8 an abnormally low number of granulocytes in the circulating blood, which may lead to an increased risk of bacterial infection. %n practice, the term is used to refer to neutropenia. ack to top $ $A(#9(%#"8 the time re<uired for half of the original amount of a drug to be eliminated from the body, or for a drug to decrease to half its original concentration in the blood. $A-8 see hepatic arterial stenosis. $AT8 see hepatic arterial thrombosis. $CC8 see hepatocellular carcinoma. $CT8 see hematocrit. $C/ ,)A8 the genetic material of the hepatitis C 6irus. A detectable le6el of $C/ ,)A on a 6iral load test indicates that $C/ is acti6ely replicating. $"(%CA-" %)$% %TO,8 a drug that inhibits the action of a 6irus= helicase en:yme, thus pre6enting the 6iral genetic material from unwinding, and interfering with 6iral replication. $"MATOC,%T 4$CT78 the percentage of red blood cells in a gi6en amount of whole blood; the hematocrit reflects the oxygen9carrying capacity of the blood. A normal hematocrit is >D9C>K for adult men and BL9>LK for adult women. $"MATO(OG%CA(8 ha6ing to do with the blood. $"MATO*O%"-%-8 the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. $ematopoietic stem cells gi6e rise to all types of red and white blood cells. $"M"8 the iron9based pigment in red blood cells, a component of hemoglobin that is released when red blood cells are broken down. $"MOC$,OMATO-%-8 iron o6erload disease; a disease in which iron is not properly metaboli:ed and builds up in tissues throughout the body, especially in the li6er. $"MOG(O %) 4$gb78 the red, iron9based pigment in red blood cells that enables them to transport oxygen. Also refers to a test of the amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells.

$"MO(2-%-8 the breakdown or destruction of red blood cells. $"MO(2T%C A)"M%A8 a low red blood cell count due to excessi6e cell destruction. $"MO*$%(%A8 a hereditary disease in which a person does not produce sufficient blood clotting factors and is prone to prolonged bleeding. $"MO,,$AG"8 bleeding. $"*AC%/%,.-8 a genus of 6iruses that includes $C/. $"*AT%C8 ha6ing to do with the li6er; also, an herbal remedy used to treat li6er conditions. $"*AT%C A,T",%A( -T")O-%- 4$A-78 narrowing of the hepatic artery. $"*AT%C A,T",%A( T$,OM O-%- 4$AT78 the formation of clots in the hepatic artery. $"*AT%C A,T",28 the blood 6essel that deli6ers oxygen9rich blood to the li6er. $"*AT%C COMA8 loss of consciousness due to ad6anced li6er disease. 0hen the li6er is damaged, it cannot remo6e toxins from the body; these toxins build up in the bloodstream causing brain damage and other symptoms. $epatic coma is an indication of ad6anced li6er failure. $"*AT%C ")C"*$A(O*AT$28 impaired brain function due to ad6anced li6er damage; this occurs when the damaged li6er can no longer effecti6ely filter toxins from the bloodstream. $"*AT%C *A)"(8 see li6er function tests. $"*AT%C ,"-"CT%O)8 surgical remo6al of part of the li6er; may be done to treat li6er cancer. $"*AT%C /"%)8 the blood 6essel that carries filtered blood from the li6er to the heart. $"*AT%T%-8 inflammation of the li6er. $epatitis may ha6e 6arious causes, including 6iruses, toxins, and hea6y alcohol consumption. $"*AT%T%- A 4%)#"CT%O.- $"*AT%T%-78 a 6iral disease of the li6er that is primarily transmitted by the fecal9oral route. -ymptoms may include fe6er, fatigue, nausea, and 5aundice. $epatitis A typically resol6es on its own and does not become chronic. There is no standard treatment for hepatitis A, but an effecti6e 6accine is a6ailable.

$"*AT%T%- A /%,.- 4$A/78 the 6irus that causes hepatitis A. $"*AT%T%- 4-",.M $"*AT%T%-78 a 6iral disease of the li6er. $epatitis is a blood9 borne disease, but may also be transmitted sexually transmitted or 6ertically from mother to child. -ymptoms may include fe6er, fatigue, abdominal pain, 5aundice, and ele6ated li6er en:ymes. $epatitis becomes chronic in about C9EDK of infected adults. -tandard treatments for hepatitis are interferon and lami6udine; an effecti6e 6accine is a6ailable. $"*AT%T%- %MM.)OG(O .(%) 4$ %G78 a preparation of antibodies administered as postexposure prophylaxis to pre6ent illness in people exposed to the hepatitis 6irus. $"*AT%T%/%,.- 4$ /78 the 6irus that causes hepatitis .

$"*AT%T%- C 4formerly )O)9A@)O)9 $"*AT%T%-78 a 6iral disease of the li6er. $epatitis C is a blood9borne disease; in rare cases it may be transmitted sexually or 6ertically from mother to child. -ymptoms may include fe6er, fatigue, abdominal pain, 5aundice, and ele6ated li6er en:ymes. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to long9term li6er damage. -tandard treatment for hepatitis C is a combination of interferon 4standard or pegylated7 plus riba6irin; there is currently no 6accine. $"*AT%T%- C /%,.- 4$C/78 the 6irus that causes hepatitis C. $"*AT%T%- ! 4!"(TA $"*AT%T%-78 a 6iral disease of the li6er. $epatitis ! is caused by a blood9borne 6irus that only causes disease in people already infected with hepatitis . $"*AT%T%- ! /%,.- 4$!/78 the 6irus that causes hepatitis !. $"*AT%T%- " 4")T",%C $"*AT%T%-78 a 6iral disease of the li6er. $epatitis " is spread through the fecal9oral route. The disease is rare in the ..-., but common in Africa and Asia. %t is usually mild, but may be se6ere and possibly fatal in pregnant women. $"*AT%T%- " /%,.- 4$"/78 the 6irus that causes hepatitis ". $"*AT%T%- G /%,.- 4$G/, G /%,.- C, G /9C78 a recently disco6ered blood9 borne 6irus that appears to be related to hepatitis C. %t is not known to cause disease. $"*ATOC"((.(A, CA,C%)OMA 4$CC78 a type of primary li6er cancer seen in some people with long9term li6er damage due to chronic hepatitis C or hepatitis . $"*ATOC"((.(A, )"C,O-%-8 concerning locali:ed li6er cell tissue death. $"*ATOC2T"8 a working li6er cell. $"*ATO(OG2 4also $"*ATO(OG%-T78 the medical specialty that deals with the li6er;

a hepatologist treats li6er disease. $"*ATOM"GA(28 enlargement of the li6er. $"*ATO,")A( -2)!,OM"8 pertaining to the kidney failure in the presence of li6er disease. $"*ATOTO1%C%T2 4ad5ecti6e $"*ATOTO1%C78 toxic or poisonous to the li6er. $", A(%-M 4$", A( T$",A*278 the medicinal or therapeutic use of plants or plant products. $",*"-8 a common 6iral infection that can cause fe6er blisters, genital sores, and shingles. $gb8 see hemoglobin. $%-TAM%)"8 a cellular compound that is released in response to an allergen and causes the symptoms of allergic reactions. $%-TAM%)" !%$2!,OC$(O,%!" 4brand name C"*(")", formerly MA1%M%)"78 a histamine analog being studied as a treatment for chronic hepatitis C. $%-TO(OG2 4ad5ecti6e $%-TO(G%CA(78 the study or examination of body tissues. %n people with $C/, histological impro6ement refers to impro6ed li6er tissue health, including decreased inflammation and reduced fibrosis or cirrhosis. $%-TO(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-"8 an impro6ement in li6er tissue condition 4e.g., reduced inflammation7 in response to treatment. $%/8 see human immunodeficiency 6irus. $%/ !%-"A-"8 infection with the human immunodeficiency 6irus, which attacks the body=s immune system. A%!- is the late, symptomatic stage of $%/ disease. $O!G'%)H- !%-"A-"8 tumor or cancer of the lymphatic system. $OM"O*AT$28 an alternati6e healing system based on the theory that Flike cures like.F $omeopathic therapy uses extremely diluted doses of substances that normally cause the types of symptoms being treated. $OM"O-TAT%-8 the state of e<uilibrium of the body to maintain a stable internal en6ironment. $O,MO)"8 a chemical messenger 4e.g., adrenaline, testosterone7 in6ol6ed in the regulation and coordination of bodily or cellular functions. $ormones may act locally or be secreted into the bloodstream.

$O,MO)" ,"*(AC"M")T T$",A*2 4$,T78 the administration of hormones to replace those that the body is unable to produce; typically refers to estrogen replacement therapy in postmenopausal women. $O-T C"((8 a cell infected with a 6irus or other microorganism. $.MA) %MM.)O!"#%C%")C2 /%,.- 4$%/78 a slow9acting retro6irus associated with A%!-. $%/ is transmitted through blood9to9blood contact, sexual acti6ity, or from mother to child. $.MA) (".'OC2T" A)T%G") 4$(A78 a genetic marker of FselfF which pre6ents the immune system from attacking the body=s own tissues. $2*", %(%,. %)"M%A8 an excess le6el of bilirubin in the blood, characteri:ed by 5aundice, pale9colored stools, and dark urine. $2*",C$O("-T","M%A8 a high le6el of cholesterol in the blood. $2*",G(O .(%)"M%A8 an abnormally high le6el of immunoglobulins 4antibodies7 in the blood. $2*",G(2C"M%A8 high blood sugar. $2*",T")-%O)8 high blood pressure. $2*",T$2,O%!%-M8 increased thyroid gland acti6ity and thyroid hormone o6erproduction $2*",T,O*$%C CA,!%OM2O*AT$2 4$CM78 a disease of the heart where enlargement and thickening de6elops in one part of the heart. $2*OA( .M%)"M%A8 a low le6el of the blood protein albumin. $2*OT$2,O%!%-M8 decreased thyroid gland acti6ity and reduced thyroid hormone production. ack to top % % .*,O#")8 a nonsteroidal anti9inflammatory drug used to relie6e pain and reduce fe6er. Ad6il, Ale6e, and Motrin are common brand names. %CT",.-8 see 5aundice.

%!%O*AT$%C8 a term used to describe a disease or condition of unknown cause or origin. %!.8 see in5ection drug user. %#)8 see interferon. %G8 immunoglobulin. see antibody. %MM.)" G(O .(%)8 see antibody. %MM.)" ,"-*O)-"8 the acti6ity of the immune system, for example against an outside in6ader 4e.g., bacteria, 6irus7, cancerous cells, or the body=s own tissues 4autoimmune response7. %MM.)" -2-T"M8 the body=s defense system that protects against foreign in6aders 4e.g., bacteria, 6iruses7. -ome immune defenses are nonspecific 4e.g., phagocytosis7, while others are directed against specific in6aders 4e.g., antibody production7. Organs of the immune system include the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and tonsils. %MM.)%T28 resistance to disease; the body=s ability to recogni:e and defend against outside in6aders and cancerous cells. %mmunity may be either natural or ac<uired 4for example, artificially induced through a 6accine7. %MM.)%3AT%O)8 the process by which a person is protected against illness caused by a pathogen 4e.g., bacteria, 6irus7. Acti6e immuni:ation 46accination7 in6ol6es exposing a person to antigens to prompt the body to mount an immune response 4e.g., production of antibodies7. *assi6e immuni:ation in6ol6es the in5ection of an antibody preparation 4e.g., gamma globulin7. %MM.)OCOM*"T")T8 capable of mounting an immune response. %MM.)OCOM*,OM%-"8 see immunodeficiency. %MM.)O!"#%C%")C28 inability of the immune system to work properly, resulting in increased susceptibility to disease. %MM.)OG(O .(%)8 see antibody. %MM.)OMO!.(ATO,8 an agent that influences the body=s immune response. %MM.)O-.**,"--%O)8 see immunodeficiency. %MM.)O-.**,"--%/"8 a drug or other agent that decreases immune system function.

%MM.)OT$",A*2 4%MM.)"9 A-"! T$",A*278 a therapy that attempts to modify or enhance the immune response or reconstitute a damaged immune system. %M*!$ %)$% %TO,8 see inosine monophosphate dehyrogenase inhibitor. %)C%!")C" 4also %)C%!")C" ,AT"78 the number of new cases of a disease or condition in a specific population during a gi6en period of time. The incidence rate is determined by di6iding the number of new cases by the total population. Contrast with pre6alence. %)C(.-%O) C,%T",%A8 conditions that a person must meet in order to be eligible for a clinical trial. Contrast with exclusion criteria. %)C. AT%O) *",%O!8 the period of time between initial exposure to an infectious microorganism and the de6elopment of disease symptoms. %)!.CT%O) T$",A*28 the initiation phase of a particular treatment. Typically induction therapy uses higher or more fre<uent doses of a drug. Contrast with maintenance therapy. %)#"CT%O)8 a condition in which the body is in6aded by an infectious organism 4e.g., bacteria, 6irus, fungus7. %)#"CT%O.-8 a disease or condition that can be transmitted from one person to another. %)#"CT%O.- $"*AT%T%-8 see hepatitis A. %)#",G")8 brand name of interferon alfacon E consensus interferon, produced by Amgen@/aleant *harmaceuticals. %)#(AMMAT%O)8 the body=s response to tissue in5ury or infection, typically characteri:ed by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. %)#O,M"! CO)-")T8 a mechanism designed to protect sub5ects in clinical trials. efore entering a trial, participants must sign a form stating that they ha6e been gi6en and understand important information about the trial 4including possible risks and benefits7 and 6oluntarily agree to take part. %)#.-%O)8 direct in5ection 4e.g., of a drug, nutrients7 into the bloodstream. %)$% %TO,8 an agent that inhibits or blocks an acti6ity. %)&"CT%O) !,.G .-", 4%!.78 a person who uses an illegal drug 4e.g., heroin, cocaine7 administered with a needle and syringe. The term intra6enous drug user 4%/!.7 is also sometimes used.

%)O-%)" MO)O*$O-*$AT" !"$2!,OG")A-" 4%M*!$7 %)$% %TO,8 an agent 4e.g., riba6irin7 that interferes with the synthesis and storage of guanine, thus inhibiting 6iral replication. %)-OM)%A8 inability to sleep. %)-T%T.T%O)A( ,"/%"0 OA,! 4%, 78 a multidisciplinary group that re6iews and ensures the ethical conduct of clinical trials that include human participants. %)-.(%)8 a peptide hormone produced in the pancreas that enables cells to use glucose. (ack of or insensiti6ity to insulin results in diabetes. %)-.(%) ,"-%-TA)C"8 a condition in which the body=s tissues cannot properly use insulin, leading to blood sugar imbalances. %)T")T9TO9T,"AT A)A(2-%-8 a method of analy:ing the results of a clinical trial in which all participant who were originally assigned to an arm are analy:ed, including those who dropped out due to treatment failure or side effects. Contrast with as9treated analysis. %)T",#",O) 4%#)78 a cytokine 4messenger protein7 that plays a role in immune response. The three ma5or classes of interferon are alpha, beta, and gamma. %)T",#",O)9A(*$A8 a naturally occurring protein produced by the immune system that interferes with 6iral replication. %nterferon9alpha 4brand names include %ntron9A, ,oferon9A7 is standard treatment for $C/ and is also appro6ed for $ /. -ide effects may include flu9like symptoms, fatigue, loss of appetite, depression, and anxiety. %)T",(".'%) 4%(78 a cytokine 4chemical messenger7, secreted by immune system blood cells, that regulates a range of immune functions. %)T",)AT%O)A( .)%T 4%.78 a standard unit of measurement. %)T",)A( ,% O-OM" ")T,2 -%T" %)$% %TO,8 an agent that interferes with the translation of 6iral genetic material and thus inhibits 6iral reproduction. %)TO(",A)C"8 inability of the body to tolerate a drug, resulting in ad6erse side effects. %)T,AC"((.(A,8 within a cell. %)T,A/")O.- 4%/78 in5ected directly into a 6ein. %)T,A/")O.- %MM.)OG(O .(%) 4%/%G78 an antibody preparation administered intra6enously to treat illness in a person whose own immune system does not produce sufficient antibodies.

%)T,O)9A8 brand name of interferon9alpha9Ab, produced by -chering9*lough. %) .T",O8 in the uterus; refers to e6ents that occur in the womb before birth. %)/"-T%GAT%O)A( )"0 !,.G 4%)!78 an #!A classification for experimental drugs that are undergoing clinical trials to assess their safety and effecti6eness prior to marketing appro6al. %)/"-T%GATO,8 a clinical researcher who is in6ol6ed with a clinical trial protocol and its implementation. The *rincipal %n6estigator is ultimately responsible for the conduct of the trial. %) /%T,O8 (atin for Fin glassF; refers to studies done in a test tube or culture medium in the laboratory. %) /%/O8 (atin for Fin a li6ing organismF; refers to studies done using human or animal sub5ects. %,"- %)$% %TO,8 see internal ribosome entry site inhibitor. %,O)8 an important trace element needed for the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells. $igh le6els of iron can be toxic to the li6er. %,O)9!"#%C%")C2 A)"M%A8 the most common type of anemia, caused by a lack of iron. %-C$"M%A8 reduced blood supply to bodily tissues. %-("T C"((8 a cell in the %slets of (angerhans in the pancreas that produces insulin. %.8 see international unit. %/8 see intra6enous. %/!.8 see in5ection drug user. %/%G8 see intra6enous immunoglobulin ack to top & &A.)!%C"8 4icterus, itcteric7 yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes due to high bilirubin le6els in the blood. &aundice is often a sign of li6er damage or gallbladder disease.

ack to top ' 'A2-",9#("%-C$", ,%)G-8 see 0ilsonHs disease. '"TO)"8 a byproduct of fat metabolism. 0hen the body does not ha6e enough glucose, the li6er con6erts fatty acids into ketones, which are used as fuel by the muscles. '%!)"2 4ad5ecti6e ,")A(78 one of two bean9shaped organs located in the lower back part of the abdominal ca6ity. The kidneys filter waste material from the blood and excrete urine. '%!)"2 -TO)" 4)"*$,O(%T$%A-%-78 an accumulation of substances 4e.g., drug crystals, minerals7 in the kidneys, leading to blockage and pain. '.*##", C"((8 a type of macrophage that resides in the li6er and ingests bacteria absorbed from the intestines. ack to top ( (ACTAT%O)8 production of breast milk. (AM%/.!%)" 4BTC, brand name "*%/%,78 a nucleoside analog drug used to treat chronic hepatitis and $%/ disease. (A*A,O-CO*%C (%/", %O*-28 a type of li6er biopsy using a laparoscope. (A*A,O-CO*28 a procedure in which a lighted instrument is inserted through an abdominal incision for the purpose of diagnosis, biopsy, or surgery. (AT")C2 4ad5ecti6e (AT")T78 the state in which a disease9causing organism is present in the body, but not acti6ely replicating or causing illness. (A1AT%/"8 an agent that promotes bowel e6acuation 4defecation7. ("C%T$%)8 a fatty compound re<uired for proper metabolism. ("-%O)8 a tissue in5ury or wound. (".'%)"8 see granulocyte9macrophage colony9stimulating factor. (".'OC2T"8 an immune system white blood cell 4e.g, T9cell, 9cell, neutrophil7.

(%C$") *(A).-8 an inflammatory disease of the skin and mucous membranes characteri:ed by red or purple bumps or blotches. The cause of lichen planus is not known, but it appears to be an autoimmune condition. (%CO,%C" ,OOT 4G(2C2,,$%3A G(A ,A, G(2C2,,$%3%), GA) CAO78 an herbal remedy traditionally used to treat diseases of the li6er and bronchial conditions. Glycyrrhi:in is an acti6e component of licorice root. (%*%!8 a fat. (%*O!2-T,O*$28 a syndrome that in6ol6es abnormal lipid metabolism and redistribution of body fat. (%*OG")"-%-8 production of lipids 4fats7. (%/",8 a large organ on the upper right side of the abdomen that plays an important role in the metabolism of sugars and fats, synthesi:es se6eral proteins, and filters toxins from the blood. (%/", CA)C",8 malignant proliferation of cells in the li6er. The most common type of li6er cancer in people with chronic hepatitis is hepatocellular carcinoma. (%/", C"((8 see hepatocyte. (%/", ")32M"8 see aminotransferase. (%/", #.)CT%O) T"-T- 4$"*AT%C *A)"(78 a set of blood tests that measure le6els of li6er en:ymes, proteins, and 6arious other substances. (i6er function tests are used to help diagnose li6er disease, assess the degree of li6er damage and determine how well treatment is working. (%/%)G !O)O,8 a person who donates an organ or part of an organ while ali6e to another person. (O "8 one of the four anatomical di6isions of the li6er; lobes are further di6ided into lobules. (O .(" O# (%/",8 a structural unit consisting of hepatic 4li6er7 cells shaped like a hexagon with six portal triads surrounding a central 6ein. (OG8 a measure based on the logarithmic scale that refers to <uantities in factor of ten. A log change is an exponential, or ED9fold, increase or decrease 4e.g., a change from ED to EDD is a E9log increase; a change from E,DDD,DDD to ED,DDD is a A9log decrease7. /iral load is sometimes expressed in logs.

(.*.-8 see systemic lupus erythematosus. (2M*$ )O!" 4(2M*$ G(A)!78 a small, bean9si:ed organ located throughout the body, with concentrations in the neck, groin, and armpits. (ymph nodes filter out antigens and are the site of immune cell acti6ation. (2M*$AT%C -2-T"M8 a network of organs and 6essels that help maintain the fluid en6ironment of the body and coordinate immune responses. The lymphoid organs include the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, tonsils, and adenoids. (2M*$OC2T"8 a type of white blood cell 4e.g., T9cell, 9cell, natural killer cell7 that plays a role in the body=s immune defense. (2M*$OC2TO*")%A8 a deficiency of lymphocytes. ack to top M MAC,O*$AG"8 a large sca6enger white blood cell that ingests and processes foreign in6aders and cellular debris. -peciali:ed macrophages protect the skin, lungs 4al6eolar macrophages7, brain 4microglia7, li6er 4'upffer cells7, and other tissues. MAG)"T%C ,"-O)A)C" %MAG%)G 4M,%78 a sensiti6e, non9in6asi6e method for 6iewing soft tissues of the body using a magnetic field. MA%)T")A)C" T$",A*28 therapy that follows successful initial treatment of an illness; generally maintenance therapy continues for a long period of time 4possibly for life7 to pre6ent disease recurrence. Contrast with induction therapy. MA&O, $%-TOCOM*AT% %(%T2 COM*("1 4M$C78 a group of genes that controls the expression of cell surface protein markers 4also known as human leukocyte antigen, or $(A, markers7 that allow immune cells to recogni:e the body=s own cells 4that is, to distinguish FselfF from Fnon9selfF7. MA(A%-"8 a generali:ed feeling of illness and discomfort; a flu9like feeling. MA(%G)A)C28 a cancer, neoplasm, or tumor that grows in an uncontrolled manner, and may in6ade nearby tissue and metastasi:e, or spread, to other areas of the body. MA(%G)A)T8 a condition that is se6ere, harmful, or resistant to treatment. Contrast with benign. MA().T,%T%O)8 lack of the minimum amount of nutrients 4proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, 6itamins, minerals, etc.7 necessary for good health. Malnutrition may result from poor diet, lack of appetite, or inade<uate absorption of nutrients from the gastrointestinal

tract. MA1%M%)"8 see histamine dihydrochloride. M"A) 4A/",AG"78 a statistical measurement of the central tendency, or a6erage, of a set of 6alues. #or example, in the series of 6alues FE, E, B, C, I, ?, ?, ED, AE,F the mean is L 4determined by adding up all the 6alues and di6iding by the number of 6alues7. Contrast with median. M"!%A)8 the number within a series that is preceded and followed by an e<ual number of 6alues. #or example, in the series of 6alues FE, E, B, C, I, ?, ?, ED, AE,F the median is I 4there are four 6alues lower and four 6alues higher7. Contrast with mean. M"!%CA%!8 in the .nited -tates, a program that is funded by federal and state go6ernments that pays for medical care for those who canHt afford it. M"!%CA,"8 in the .nited -tates, a program that pays for certain health care expenses for people IC and older. M"!%TAT%O)8 a techni<ue for relaxation and clearing and focusing the mind. M"GA'A,2OC2T"8 a large precursor blood cell that gi6es rise to platelets. M"(!8 an acronym for Model "nd -tage (i6er !isease. A se6erity score or calculation used for adults with li6er disease to rank candidates for li6er transplantation. M"M ,A)"8 a thin sheet or layer of tissue that ser6es as a semi9permeable co6ering. M"M ,A)O*,O#(%#",AT%/" G(OM",.(O)"*$,%T%- 4M$7 is a condition that affects the kidneys that is usually 4but not always7 associated with cryoglobulinemia. -ymptoms include weakness, edema and arterial hypertension. 4-ee also glomerulonephritis7 M"M ,A)O.- )"*$,O*AT$28 a disease of the kidneys where $C/ antibodies and 6iral particles are deposited in the kidneys. M")O*A.-"8 the cessation of menstruation. M")-T,.AT%O)8 a stage of the female reproducti6e cycle. An o6um 4egg7 matures and is released e6ery month. $ormones prepare the uterus for possible implantation. %f pregnancy does not occur, the uterine lining 4blood and tissue7 is shed and expelled 4the menstrual period7. M"--")G", ,)A 4m,)A78 a piece of ribonucleic acid that carries genetic information from !)A to ribosomes in order to synthesi:e new proteins.

M"TA O(%-M 4ad5ecti6e M"TA O(%C78 the processes of building the body=s molecular structures from nutrients 4anabolism7 and breaking them down for energy 4catabolism7. Also, the chemical processing or breakdown of food, drugs, and toxins. M"TA-TA-%- 4ad5ecti6e M"TA-TAT%C, 6erb M"TA-TA-%3"78 a disease 4especially cancer7 that spreads from one part of the body to another. M"T$A!O)"8 an oral opiate9like drug used for pain management and to treat opiate 4e.g., heroin7 addiction. Methadone maintenance therapy pre6ents withdrawal symptoms by administering small doses of the drug on a regular basis. M"T$%O)%)"8 see s9adenosylmethionine. M%(' T$%-T(" 4-%(2 .M MA,%A).M, -%(2MA,%)78 the most widely used herbal remedy to treat chronic hepatitis. -ilymarin is a combination of acti6e components deri6ed from milk thistle. -tudies suggest that milk thistle can reduce hepatitis symptoms and helps pre6ent li6er damage. M%)",A(8 an inorganic element that promotes chemical reactions within the body and is necessary for proper cellular metabolism. "ssential minerals include calcium, iodine, iron, magnesium, potassium, and :inc. M%-CA,,%AG"8 a pregnancy that ends prematurely and is not carried to term. M%TOC$O)!,%O) 4plural M%TOC$O)!,%A78 a rod9shaped organelle in the cytoplasm of a cell that produces energy. M$C8 see ma5or histocompatibility complex. MO("C.("8 a small unit of matter made up of atoms. A molecule is the smallest unit of a substance that retains its uni<ue characteristics. MO)OC(O)A( A)T% O!%"-8 a preparation consisting of identical antibodies acti6e against a specific pathogen. MO)OC2T"8 a large white blood cell that plays a role in immune defense. Monocytes circulate in the bloodstream; when they migrate to the tissues, they mature into macrophages. MO)OGAM2 4MO)OGAMO.-78 ha6ing a single spouse; more often used to refer to ha6ing a single sexual partner. MO)OT$",A*28 use of a single drug for treatment. Monotherapy for $C/ 4interferon alone7 is no longer considered standard treatment. Contrast with combination therapy.

MOO,") CO,)"A( .(C",AT%O)8 a condition affecting the eyes causing pain, inflammation, tearing and loss of sight. MO, %!%T28 sickness; the state of being affected by disease. MO,TA(%T2 4also MO,TA(%T2 ,AT"78 death. The mortality rate is the rate of death in a gi6en population. MO1A8 the herb mugwort. MO1% .-T%O)8 in traditional Chinese medicine, the burning of an herb 4moxa7 to generate heat and stimulate the flow of <i. M,%8 see magnetic resonance imaging. m,)A8 see messenger ,)A. M.8 abbre6iation for million units. M.CO.- M"M ,A)" 4M.CO-A78 a moist layer of semi9permeable tissue lining the openings of the body 4e.g., the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and genitourinary tracts7. M.(T%#OCA(8 occurring at more that one site. M.(T%*(" M2"(OMA8a form of cancer of the bone marrow that causes anemia, infections, and bleeding. M.(T%/A,%AT" A)A(2-%-8 a statistical analysis that takes into account se6eral different factors or 6ariables. M.(T%/%TAM%)8 a nutritional supplement that contains se6eral different essential 6itamins and minerals. M.TAT%O) 46erb M.TAT"78 a change in the character of a gene that is perpetuated when a cell di6ides or a 6irus replicates. M2A(G%A8 muscle pain. M2"(%)8 a white fatty substance that forms a sheath around the axons of neurons 4ner6e cells7 and pro6ides the insulation necessary for the proper transmission of electrical impulses. M2"(O-.**,"--%O)8 inhibition of the bone marrow, resulting in decreased blood cell production. M2"(OTO1%C8 poisonous to or destructi6e of the bone marrow.

M2OCA,!%A( %)#A,CT%O)8 blockage of the arteries ser6ing the heart, often leading to angina pectoris and@or heart attack. M2O*AT$28 muscle inflammation, damage, or disease. ack to top ) )AC8 see n9acetyl9cysteine. )9AC"T2(9C2-T"%)" 4)AC78 a form of the animo acid cysteine that is a6ailable as a nutritional supplement. )AC is used to pre6ent li6er damage due to acetaminophen o6erdose. )A%/"8 inexperienced. Often used to describe an indi6idual who has ne6er taken a certain drug, or to an undifferentiated immune system cell. )A,COT%C8 see opiate. )AT%O)A( %)-T%T.T"- O# $"A(T$ 4)%$78 a large biomedical research organi:ation that is part of the ..-. *ublic $ealth -er6ice. The )%$ includes se6eral institutes, centers, and di6isions. The )ational %nstitute of Allergy and %nfectious !iseases 4)%A%!7 and the )ational %nstitute of !iabetes and !igesti6e and 'idney !iseases 4)%!!'7 conduct research on 6iral hepatitis. )AT.,A( '%((", 4)'7 C"((8 a type of white blood cell that attacks and kills tumor cells and cells infected with microorganisms. )AT.,O*AT$28 a system of natural healing based on the philosophy that the body has the ability to cure itself. )A.-"A8 stomach distress characteri:ed by an a6ersion to food and an urge to 6omit. )!A8 see new drug application. )"C,O-%-8 cell or tissue death. )"C,O%)#(AMMAT%O)8 tissue inflammation and death. )"O)AT" 4ad5ecti6e )"O)ATA(78 a newborn, especially within the first days or weeks after birth. )"O*(A-M 4)"O*(A-%A78 a tumor or growth; tissue that de6elops abnormally or cells that proliferate more rapidly than normal. A benign neoplasm 4e.g., a wart7 is locali:ed

and does not spread to other tissues; a malignant neoplasm 4cancer7 can spread to other parts of the body. )"*$,O(%T$%A-%-8 see kidney stone. )"*$,OTO1%C%T28 the property of being poisonous or harmful to the kidneys. )".*OG")8 see granulocyte colony9stimulating factor. )".,A(G%A8 ner6e pain. )".,O*AT$2 4ad5ecti6e )".,O*AT$%C78 ner6e damage or disease. )".T,O*")%A8 an abnormally low number of neutrophils, resulting in increased susceptibility to infection. )".T,O*$%(8 the most common type of immune system white blood cell. )eutrophils are phagocytes that engulf and destroy in6ading organisms such as bacteria and fungi. )"0 !,.G A**(%CAT%O) 4)!A78 an application made by a drug manufacturer to the #!A to re<uest marketing appro6al for a new drug. )%AC%)8 see 6itamin . )%A%!8 )ational %nstitute of Allergy and %nfectious !iseases. -ee )ational %nstitutes of $ealth. )%!!'8 )ational %nstitute of !iabetes and !igesti6e and 'idney !iseases. -ee )ational %nstitutes of $ealth. )%$8 see )ational %nstitutes of $ealth. )' C"((8 see natural killer cell. )O)9A@)O)9 $"*AT%T%-8 see hepatitis C. )O)9$O!G'%)H- (2M*$OMA 4)$(78 cancer of lymphoid tissues. )O)%)/A-%/"8 a de6ice or procedure that does not re<uire puncturing the skin. )O)9).C("O-%!" ,"/",-" T,A)-C,%*TA-"%)$% %TO, 4)),T%78 an anti6iral drug that suppresses 6iral replication by interfering with the action of the re6erse transcriptase en:yme. )O)O12)O(9M8 a chemical formerly used as a spermicide and microbicide. ,ecent studies ha6e shown that nonoxynol9M causes tissue damage and may increase the risk of

-T! transmission. )O),"-*O)!",8 person who does not show impro6ement while undergoing treatment. %n $C/, a nonresponder does not achie6e normal A(T le6els or an undetectable 6iral load. )O)-T",O%!A( A)T%9%)#(AMMATO,2 !,.G 4)-A%!78 a drug 4e.g., aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen7 that relie6es pain and reduces inflammation by blocking the body=s production of prostaglandins. )),T%8 see non9nucleoside re6erse transcriptase inhibitor. ),T%8 see nucleoside re6erse transcriptase inhibitor. )-A%!8 see nonsteroidal anti9inflammatory drug. ).C("O-%!" A)A(OG8 see nucleoside re6erse transcriptase inhibitor. ).C("O-%!" ,"/",-" T,A)-C,%*TA-" %)$% %TO, 4),T%, ).C("O-%!" A)A(OG78 a drug that mimics a nucleoside, one of the building blocks of genetic material 4!)A or ,)A7. ),T%s suppress 6iral replication by interfering with the action of the re6erse transcriptase en:yme, causing premature termination of new chains of genetic material. ).C("OT%!"8 a genetic building block. ).T,%")T8 an agent that promotes proper growth and metabolism. ).T,%T%O)8 the process by which li6ing organisms digest and metaboli:e food to use for maintenance and growth of tissues. ack to top O O##9(A "(8 use of an #!A9appro6ed drug for an indication other than that for which it was appro6ed. O)COG")8 an agent that promotes neoplastic cell growth, or cancer. O)COG")"-%-8 the de6elopment and growth of cancer. O)CO(OG%-T8 a physician who speciali:es in the treatment of cancer. O)CO(OG28 the study and treatment of cancer.

O*")9(A "(8 a drug trial which is not randomi:ed and not blinded; both participants and in6estigators know what drug is being tested and what dosages are being used. O*%AT" 4)A,COT%C78 a class of drugs 4e.g., heroin, codeine, methadone7 that are deri6ed from the opium poppy or produced synthetically and ha6e opium9like effects. Opiate drugs relie6e pain, dull the senses, and induce sleep. O**O,T.)%-T%C %(()"-- 4O**O,T.)%-T%C %)#"CT%O), O%78 an illness or infection that does not normally occur in a person with a healthy immune system, but affects immunocompromised persons. O,A(8 relating to the mouth; taken by mouth. O,GA)%C #OO!8 food that is grown naturally without the use of chemical fertili:ers, pesticides, or other artificial inter6ention. O-T"OA,T$,%T%-8 degenerati6e 5oint disease. OTC8 see o6er9the9counter. O/",9T$"9CO.)T", 4OTC78 drugs that are a6ailable without a prescription. O1%!AT%/" -T,"--8 increased le6els of free radicals in the body, potentially leading to cell damage and death. ack to top * *A((%AT%/"8 offering symptomatic relief and comfort care 4e.g., alle6iation of pain7 rather than a cure. *A((O,8 paleness. *A)C,"A-8 a digesti6e gland in the abdominal ca6ity that secretes digesti6e en:ymes. *A)C,"AT%T%-8 inflammation of the pancreas. *A)C2TO*")%A8 an abnormally low le6el of all types of blood cells, typically due to bone marrow damage. *A,AC")T"-%-8 a procedure to remo6e fluid that has accumulated in the abdominal ca6ityNa condition called ascites. *A,AC"TOMA(8 see acetaminophen

*A,")T",A(8 nutrients gi6en by in5ection into a 6ein, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. *AT$OG") 4ad5ecti6e *AT$OG")%C78 any disease9causing agent, especially a microorganism 4bacteria, 6irus, fungus, parasite7. *AT$OG")"-%-8 the de6elopment and progression of a disease. *AT$O(OG2 4ad5ecti6e *AT$O(OG%C78 the study of disease, including the causes, de6elopment, and progression of disease, and how the body is affected. *C,8 see polymerase chain reaction. *"A' ("/"(8 the highest le6el of drug reached in the body after a dose is taken. Contrast with trough le6el. *"GA-2-8 brand name of pegylated interferon9alpha9Aa, produced by ,oche (aboratories. *"G%)T",#",O)8 see pegylated interferon. *"G9%)T,O)8 brand name of pegylated interferon9alpha9Ab, produced by -chering9 *lough. *"G2(AT"! %)T",#",O) 4*"G%)T",#",O)78 a recently de6eloped form of interferon that has a long half9life in the body and can be in5ected less often 4typically once per week7. *egylated interferon 4brand names *eg9%ntron, *egasys7 appears superior to standard interferon as a treatment for $C/. *"G2(AT%O)8 a process in which polyethylene glycol 4*"G7 molecules are attached to proteins in order to extend their acti6ity in the body. *"%8 see percutaneous ethanol in5ection. *",C.TA)"O.-8 through the skin. *",C.TA)"O.- "T$A)O( %)&"CT%O)8 a treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma in which ethanol 4alcohol7 is in5ected into the tumor. *",%$"*AT%T%-8 inflammation of the lining of the li6er. *",%)ATA(8 the period around the time of birth. *",%)ATA( T,A)-M%--%O)8 see 6ertical transmission.

*",%*$",A( )".,O*AT$28 damage to the peripheral ner6es, usually in6ol6ing the feet and hands. *",%TO)".M8 the thick membrane that lines the abdominal ca6ity and co6ers the 6isceral organs. *",%TO)%T%-8 inflammation of the peritoneum. *",)%C%O.- A)"M%A8 a type of anemia caused by the inability of the intestine to absorb 6itamin EA, which is needed to produce red blood cells. *$AGOC2T"8 a sca6enger cell that engulfs and destroys in6ading pathogens 4phagocytosis7. *$A,MAC".T%CA(8 ha6ing to do with the de6elopment and manufacture of drugs, or to a manufactured drug. *$A,MACO'%)"T%C-8 the action of drugs in the body, including the processes of absorption, metabolism, distribution to tissues, and elimination. *$A,MACO(OG28 the science of drugs, their sources, and how they work. *$A-" % T,%A(8 the first stage of human testing of a new treatment. *hase % trials e6aluate drug pharmacokinetics, safety, and toxicity at different dose le6els, typically in a small number of healthy 6olunteers. *$A-" %% T,%A(8 the second stage of the e6aluation of a new treatment in humans. *hase %% trials e6aluate safety and preliminary efficacy in a larger number of participants than *hase % studies. *$A-" %%% T,%A(8 the third stage of human testing of an experimental treatment. *hase %%% trials are designed to determine the efficacy of a treatment, often by comparing it to an existing standard therapy or a placebo. *$A-" %/ T,%A(8 post9marketing studies done after a new treatment is appro6ed and offered for sale. These trials pro6ide additional information about safety and efficacy in large numbers of patients under Freal worldF conditions. *$(" OTOM28 withdrawal of blood from a 6ein. *$OTO-")-%T%/%T28 an increased sensiti6ity to light, which may lead to easy sunburning and other ad6erse effects. *$2((A)T$.-8 tropical plant species that traditionally ha6e been used to treat li6er conditions.

*%GM")T8 a substance responsible for the color of bodily tissues. *(AC" O8 an inert, inacti6e agent 4e.g., pill, in5ection7 that has no treatment 6alue. *(AC" O A,M8 the group of participants in a clinical trial that recei6es an inacti6e substance 4placebo7. *(AC" O9CO)T,O(("! T,%A(8 a clinical trial in which a group recei6ing an inacti6e substance or mock therapy 4placebo7 is compared to a group recei6ing the experimental treatment. *(AC" O "##"CT8 a change in symptoms or disease progression associated with the treatment process itself, rather than the actual therapeutic 6alue of a treatment. *(AC")TA8 the organ that connects the fetus and the mother=s uterus and enables the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products. *(A-MA8 the fluid, non9cellular portion of circulating blood. -ee also serum. *(A-MA*$","-%-8 a procedure in which certain components are remo6ed from the blood plasma. *(AT"("T8 see thrombocyte. *(AT"("T CO.)T8 The number of platelets in the blood. *eople with ad6anced li6er disease may ha6e reduced platelet counts, resulting in easy bleeding. A normal platelet count is EBD,DDD9>DD,DDD@mcl. *)".MO)%T%-8 lung inflammation. *O8 taken by mouth. *O(2M",A-" C$A%) ,"ACT%O) 4*C,78 a highly sensiti6e test that uses an amplification techni<ue to detect small amounts of genetic material 4!)A or ,)A7 in a blood or tissue sample. *O(2M",A-" %)$% %TO,8 an agent that inhibits 6iral replication by interfering with the polymerase en:yme. *O,*$2,%A C.TA)"A TA,!A8 a condition in which porphyrins build up in the body leading to symptoms including increased photosensiti6ity, skin damage, and discoloration. *O,*$2,%)8 a metabolic byproduct of hemoglobin production.

*O,TA( $2*",T")-%O)8 high blood pressure in the portal 6ein that carries blood to the li6er, caused by the de6elopment of fibrous scar tissue 4cirrhosis7 in the li6er. *O,TA( -2-T"M8 a series of 6eins from the small and large intestines, stomach, and spleen that 5oin into the portal 6ein and are carried into the li6er. *O,TA( /"%)8 the blood 6essel that carries oxygen9poor blood from the intestines to the li6er for filtering. *O-T"1*O-.," *,"/")T%O) 4*O-T"1*O-.," *,O*$2(A1%-, *"*78 treatment gi6en immediately following exposure to an infectious organism in an attempt to pre6ent the infection from taking hold in the body. *O-T9MA,'"T%)G -T.!28 see *hase %/ trial. *O-T)ATA( 4*O-T*A,T.M78 the period following birth. *OTA--%.M8 an element and electrolyte responsible for the bodyHs growth and maintenance. *O0",8 a statistical term used to describe the ability of a clinical trial to detect a particular result. Generally the power of a study increases as more participants are included or as the trial continues for a longer period of time. *,A)A8 in Ayur6eda, the body=s 6ital energy. *,"C(%)%CA( ,"-"A,C$8 laboratory and animal studies on an experimental treatment prior to clinical trials in humans. *,")ATA(8 the period preceding birth, during which the fetus de6elops in the uterus. *,"/A(")C" 4also *,"/A(")C" ,AT"78 the number of indi6iduals with a condition in a specific population. The pre6alence rate is determined by di6iding the number of people with the condition by the total population. Contrast with incidence. *,%MA,2 CA," *$2-%C%A)8 a physician who is responsible for the o6erall long term health maintenance of a patient. *,%)C%*(" %)/"-T%GATO,8 the chief researcher conducting a clinical trial. *,OC,%T8 see erythropoietin. *,O!,.G8 a compound that is con6erted to an acti6e drug within the body.

*,OG"-T",O)"8 a female hormone with anti9estrogen effects. *rogesterone prepares the uterus for the de6elopment of the fertili:ed o6um and maintains the uterus throughout pregnancy. *,OG)O-%- 4ad5ecti6e *,OG)O-T%C78 a forecast of the probable course or outcome of a disease. *,OG,"--%O)8 de6elopment of a disease o6er time. *,O'%)"8 see granulocyte colony9stimulating factor. *,O*$2(A1%-8 a measure taken to pre6ent a disease or condition. *,O-*"CT%/" -T.!28 a clinical trial in whichparticipants are selected and their progression is followed o6er time. Contrast with retrospecti6e study. *,OT"A-" %)$% %TO,8 an agent that inhibits 6iral replication by interfering with the 6irus= protease en:yme. *,OT"%)8 a complex organic compound consisting of a se<uence of amino acids folded in a specific configuration. *roteins are ma5or components of li6ing cells and are essential for bodily growth and repair. *,OT$,OM %)8 a protein synthesi:ed by the li6er that is necessary for proper blood clotting. *,OT$,OM %) T%M" 4*T78 a measure of blood clotting time. *eople with ad6anced li6er disease may ha6e a slower than normal *T. A normal *T is ED9EA seconds. *,OTOCO(8 a written plan for a clinical trial, which typically includes details such as the hypothesis to be tested, who can participate, length of the trial, how the treatment under study will be administered, endpoints, and potential risks and benefits. *,.,%T.- 4ad5ecti6e *,.,%T%C78 itchiness. *-O,%A-%-8 a skin condition characteri:ed by scaling and red patches, due to the o6erproduction of skin cells. *-O,%AT%C A,T$,%T%-8 a form of rheumatoid arthritis associated with psoriasis. *-2C$O-%-8 a serious mental illness. *-2C$O-OC%A(8 a term used to refer to factors that affect the psychological or social realm. *sychosocial factors 4e.g., socioeconomic status, education, family situation7 can ha6e an important effect on disease risk and progression and are an essential aspect of a person=s well9being.

*-2C$OT$",A*28 treatment of mental problems with non9medical therapies, in particular counseling. *-2C$OT,O*%C8 a drug that affects psychological or mental functioning or beha6ior. *.(MO)A,2 #% ,O-%-8 the de6elopment of fibrous tissue in the lungs. *T8 patient. *.,*.,A8 see thrombocytopenic purpura. *.,.(")T8 characteri:ed by the accumulation of pus. *.-8 a thick, greenish9yellow fluid composed of dead white blood cells, killed microorganisms, and other cellular debris. *9/A(."8 a measure of probability that is reported with clinical trial results. The p9 6alue indicates the likelihood the result obtained are due to chance alone. Traditionally, a p96alue of less than .DC is considered statistically significant, or not likely due to chance alone. -ee also confidence inter6al. *2,,O(%3%!%)" A('A(O%!8 a hepatotoxic component found in plants of the Crotalaria, -enecio, and $eliotropium families. ack to top + +8 medical abbre6iation for e6ery, often used to specify drug dosing schedules 4e.g., <Ih means e6ery I hours7. +% 4C$%78 the 6ital energy belie6ed to be responsible for health and disease in traditional Chinese medicine. +%GO)G8 a form of traditional Chinese exercise that promotes the healthy flow of <i. +.A(%TAT%/"8 relating to, or expressed in terms of, <uality. A <ualitati6e 6iral load test measures the presence of a 6irus. +.A)T%TAT%/"8 relating to, or expressed in terms of, <uantity. A <uantitati6e 6iral load test measures the amount of 6iral genetic material. +.A-%-*"C%"-8 indi6idual genetic 6ariants of $C/. 0ithin a single genotype there may be multiple <uasispecies. ack to top

, ,A8 see rheumatoid arthritis. ,A!%AT%O) T$",A*2 4,A!%OT$",A*278 the use of radiation to treat disease 4especially cancer7. ,A!%OG,A*$28 the use of 19ray pictures, for example for diagnosis. ,A!%O(OG%-T8 a physician who uses x9rays or other imaging procedures for diagnosis and treatment. ,A)!OM%3"! T,%A(8 a clinical trial arranged to produce a chance distribution of participants into different arms 4e.g., experimental treatment, standard treatment, or placebo7. ,andomi:ation is done to minimi:e bias. ,A*%! /%,O(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-" 4,/,78 the probability of achie6ing a sustained 6irological response early in treatment based on a decline in $C/ ,)A 46iral load7. The generally accepted timeframe is > weeks after starting treatment. ,A2)A.!=- *$")OM")O)8 temporary interruption of blood flow to the extremities 4fingers, toes, tip of nose and ears7, often associated with exposure to cold temperatures. , C8 red blood cell. -ee erythrocyte. ,"ACT%/AT%O)8 the return of a pre6iously latent 4inacti6e7 infection to an acti6e, pathogenic state. ,"ACT%/" A,T$,%T%- 4,"%T",=- -2)!,OM"78 an arthritic disorder, often linked to con5uncti6itis, that appears to be associated with 6iral infections. ," "TO(8 -cheringHs brand of riba6irin. see riba6irin. ," "T,O)8 a bundled kit for $C/ treatment that packages together %ntron9A brand interferon and riba6irin. ," O.)!8 an increase in 6iral load following a pre6ious decrease. ,"C"*TO,8 a specific binding site on a cell=s surface or in its interior. 0hen chemical messengers or drugs bind to receptors, 6arious cellular functions are acti6ated or inhibited. /iruses must bind receptors in order to enter cells. ,"COM %)A)T8 produced by genetic engineering. ,"CO)-T%T.T%O)8 mixing a substance 4e.g., *eg9%ntron brand pegylated interferon7

with water to return it to a usable form. ,"C.,,")T8 returning or occurring repeatedly. ,"! (OO! C"((8 see erythrocyte. ,"#("1O(OG28 an alternati6e healing techni<ue that in6ol6es putting pressure on 6arious :ones of the body. ,"#,ACTO,28 resistant to treatment. ,"G")",AT%O)8 regrowth. ,"G%M")8 a specific treatment protocol, including what drugs are taken and at what dosages. ,"%'%8 a healing techni<ue in which energy is channeled through the hands of the healer. ,"%T",=- -2)!,OM"8 see reacti6e arthritis. ,"(A*-"8 recurrence of disease symptoms following a period of impro6ement. %n $C/, relapse can refer to an increase in 6iral load after it has been suppressed. ,")A(8 ha6ing to do with the kidneys. ,"*(%CAT%O)8 multiplication or reproduction, specifically used when referring to a 6irus. ,"-"CT%O)8 see hepatic resection. ,"-%-TA)C"8 the mutation of a microorganism in such a way that it loses its sensiti6ity to a drug; a resistant organism can function and replicate despite the drug=s presence. ,"-O(/"8 when referring to a condition, to clear up or heal. ,"-*O)!",9,"(A*-",8 a person who initially responds well to a treatment, but then experiences a relapse. %n chronic $C/ infection, this refers to a person who initially has a positi6e response to treatment 4e.g., normal A(T, undetectable $C/ ,)A7, but does not sustain this response once treatment is stopped. ,"-*O)-" TO T,"ATM")T8 see treatment response. ,"T%)O*AT$28 disease of the retina of the eye. ,"T,O-*"CT%/" -T.!28 a study based on medical records, looking backward in

time at e6ents that happened in the past. Contrast with prospecti6e study. ,"T,O/%,.-8 a class of 6iruses that ha6e their genetic material in the form of ,)A and use the re6erse transcriptase en:yme to transcribe their ,)A into !)A within the host cell. ,$".MATO%! A,T$,%T%- 4,A78 an autoimmune condition characteri:ed by 5oint inflammation and destruction of connecti6e tissue; other organs, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, and skin, may also be affected. ,$".MATO%! #ACTO,8 a type of antibody 4%gM7 that reacts to abnormal %gG antibodies produced by people with autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. ,$".MATO(OG28 the study and treatment of conditions of the 5oints, muscles, bones, and connecti6e tissues. ,% A8 a type of antibody test; ,% A is often used to confirm $C/ antibody positi6ity detected on an "(%-A %% test. ,% A-*$","8 Medmark -pecialty -olutionsH brand of generic riba6irin. see riba6irin. ,% A/%,%) 4brand name ," "TO(, CO*"G.-, ,% A-*$","78 an anti6iral medication appro6ed for use in combination with interferon to treat chronic $C/ infection. ,% O).C("%C AC%! 4,)A78 a single9stranded nucleic acid that encodes genetic information. ,)A is made up of se<uences of four building blocks8 adenine, cytosine, guanine, and uracil. The presence of 6iral ,)A in the blood indicates that a 6irus is acti6ely replicating. ,% O-OM"8 small organelles in the cell where new proteins are built from the ,)A Fblueprint.F ,% O32M"8 an ,)A molecule that clea6es 4cuts7 ,)A strands at a specific site. A ribo:yme directed against a specific region of the $C/ genome is currently under study as a treatment for $C/. ,%MA)TA!%)" 4brand name #(.MA!%)"78 a drug used to treat influen:a that is also under study as a treatment for chronic hepatitis C. ,%-'@ ")"#%T ,AT%O8 a measurement used to e6aluate whether potential benefits outweigh potential risks 4e.g., in a clinical trial7. ,)A8 see ribonucleic acid. ,O#",O)9A8 brand name of interferon9alpha9Aa, produced by ,oche (aboratories.

,18 treatment ack to top -9A!")O-2(M"T$%O)%)" 4-AM9", M"T$%O)%)"78 a natural compound found in cells and a6ailable as a nutritional supplement. -A#", -"18 sexual acti6ities that reduce or eliminate the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, typically by blocking contact with semen and@or 6aginal fluid. -A(/AG" T$",A*28 emergency treatment with experimental drugs for an illness that does not respond to standard therapy. -AM9"8 see s9adenosylmethionine. -AM*(" -%3"8 the number of participants in a clinical trial. -A,CO%!O-%-8 an autoimmune condition characteri:ed by granulomas 4small nodules of cells7; the condition may affect the lungs, skin, eyes, li6er, and other organs. -A,G,AMO-T%M8 see granulocyte colony9stimulating factor. -C$CDBDB>8 )-B serine protease inhibitor under study to treat chronic $C/. -C$%-A)!,A 40. 0"% 3%78 a plant used in traditional Chinese and ,ussian medicine to treat li6er conditions. -C(",O!",MA8 an autoimmune condition characteri:ed by hardened skin and connecti6e tissue. -"%3.,"8 a burst of abnormal electrical acti6ity in the brain. -"("CT%/" -",OTO)%) ,".*TA'" %)$% %TO, 4--,%78 a psychotropic drug 4e.g., *ro:ac, 3oloft7 used to relie6e depression; --,% drugs act by moderating le6els of the neurotransmitter serotonin. -"(")%.M8 a trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant. -"M")8 male e5aculatory fluid containing sperm and 6arious proteins. -")-%T%/%T28 the ability of an organism to respond to a drug or other agent. -ensiti6ity also refers to a statistical measure of the accuracy of a screening test, that is, how likely a

test is to label as positi6e those who ha6e a disease or condition. Contrast with specificity. -"*-%-8 infection. -",OCO)/",-%O)8 the de6elopment of antibodies against a pathogen; the change in a person=s antibody status from negati6e to positi6e. -",O)"GAT%/"8 lack of antibodies against a pathogen in the blood. -",O*O-%T%/"8 presence of antibodies against a pathogen in the blood. -",O-TAT.-8 the presence or absence of antibodies against a pathogen in the blood. -",.M8 the fluid, noncellular portion of blood that remains after coagulation; lymphatic fluid. -ee also plasma. -",.M $"*AT%T%-8 see hepatitis . -"1.A((2 T,A)-M%TT"! !%-"A-" 4-T!, -"1.A((2 T,A)-M%TT"! %)#"CT%O), -T%, /")","A( !%-"A-"78 a disease 4e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, $%/7 that is transmitted through sexual contact. -GOT8 serum oxaloacetic transaminase. -ee aspartate aminotransferase. -G*T8 serum glutamic pyru6ic transaminase. -ee alanine aminotransferase. -$"!!%)G8 release of infectious particles 4e.g., bacteria, 6iruses7 into the en6ironment. -$O9-A%'O9TO8 a traditional herbal li6er formula containing bupleurum. -%A(A!")%T%-8 -ialadenitis is an inflammatory disease that causes dry mouth and eyes and is associated with hepatitis C infection. -ialadenitis destroys the sali6ary glands. -%!" "##"CT8 see ad6erse reaction. -%(% %)8. an acti6e component of milk thistle. -%(2MA,%)8 see milk thistle. -%).-O%!-8 ca6ities through hepatic or li6er tissue allowing exchange of nutrients and other substances between blood and hepatocytes 4li6er cells7. -&OG,")=- -2)!,OM"8 an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks fluid9producing exocrine glands, leading to dry eyes, mouth, 6agina, etc.

-O!%.M8 an element and electrolyte and a component of salt that helps to regulate cell fluid balance. -+8 see subcutaneous. -*"C%#%C%T28 a statistical measure of the accuracy of a screening test, that is, how likely a test is to label as negati6e those who do not ha6e a disease or condition. Contrast with sensiti6ity. -*%!", A)G%OMA8 a mass of 6isible 6eins on the skin surface; may be a symptom of chronic li6er damage. -*("")8 an immune system organ located in the abdominal ca6ity. The spleen produces blood cell in the fetus, and later remo6es old red blood cells and platelets from circulation. -*(")OM"GA(28 enlargement of the spleen. -*O)TA)"O.- ACT",%A( *",%TO)T%-8 bacterial infection of ascitic fluid in the abdominal ca6ity. --,%8 see selecti6e serotonin reuptake inhibitor. -TAG" %8 the earliest stage of li6er damage, characteri:ed by li6er inflammation without fibrosis or cirrhosis. -TAG" %%8 a stage of li6er damage characteri:ed by fibrosis in a single area of the li6er. -TAG" %%%8 a stage of li6er damage characteri:ed by fibrosis in ad5acent areas of the li6er. -TAG" %/8 the most ad6anced stage of li6er damage, characteri:ed by cirrhosis and loss of normal li6er architecture. -TA)!A,! %)T",#",O)8 the type of interferon9alpha traditionally used to treat $C/. rand names include %ntron9A and ,oferon9A. -ee also pegylated interferon. -TA)!A,! O# CA,"8 the le6el of care that all persons with a particular illness should recei6e; the le6el below which care would be considered substandard. -TA)!A,! T$",A*28 the best or most widely used currently a6ailable treatment for a disease. -TAT%-T%CA( -%G)%#%CA)C"8 the probability that a clinical trial result is not due to chance alone. %n general, a result of a clinical trial is considered statistically significant if there is a less than CK probability that the difference obser6ed would occur by chance

alone if the treatments being compared were e<ually effecti6e. -T%8 see sexually transmitted disease. -T!8 see sexually transmitted disease. -T"ATO-%-8 buildup of fat tissue in the li6er. -T")O-%-8 narrowing or tightening of an opening or passage in the body. -T",O%!8 a family of substances that share a similar chemical structure, including certain hormones 4e.g., testosterone7 and 6arious drugs. -T,O'" 4C"," ,O/A-C.(A, ACC%!")T78 interruption of the normal flow of blood to the brain due to a blood clot or hemorrhage. (ack of blood flow can lead to brain damage 4resulting in symptoms such paralysis7 and death. -. C(%)%CA(8 disease symptoms that are too subtle to be noticed by a patient, but may be apparent in laboratory results. -. C.TA)"O.- 4-+78 underneath the skin; usually refers to a drug in5ected under the skin. -. &"CT8 a 6olunteer participant in a clinical trial. -. T$",A*".T%C8 a drug dosage that is too low to be effecti6e. -. T2*"8 a genetic 6ariation of an organism. -ubtypes are a more narrow classification than genotypes, but broader than <uasispecies. Genotype E $C/ is di6ided into subtypes Ea and Eb. -.*",%)#"CT%O)8 the ac<uisition of a second infection while a pre6ious infection is still present. -.*",O1%!" !%-M.TA-"8 an en:yme that destroys free radicals. -.**("M")T8 a nutrient, usually in pill form, taken in addition to the normal diet. -.**O,T G,O.*8 a group of peers with a common condition that meet for mutual emotional support or education. -.,,OGAT" MA,'",8 see endpoint. -.-C"*T% ("8 6ulnerable to or potentially able to contract a disease. Also refers to a microorganism that is 6ulnerable or sensiti6e to the effects of a drug.

-.-TA%)"! ,"-*O)!",8 a person who maintains a long9term response to treatment. %n $C/, a sustained responder has a long9term response 4e.g., normal A(T le6els, undetectable $C/ ,)A7 that persists after treatment is stopped. -.-TA%)"! /%,O(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-" 4-/,78 continued undetectable 6iral load A> weeks after the completion of therapy 4typically 0eek >? for genotypes A or B; 0eek LA for genotype E7. -/,8 see sustained 6irological response8 -/,EA8 continued undetectable 6iral load EA weeks after the completion of therapy. -2MM"T,"(8 see amantadine. -18 see symptoms. -2M*TOM 4-178 any perceptible change in the anatomy or function of the body that indicates the presence of a disease or condition. -2M*TOMAT%C8 showing outward signs or symptoms of a disease. -2)!,OM"8 a set of symptoms or disease manifestations that occur together. -2)",G2 4-2)",G%-M, ad5ecti6e -2)",G%-T%C78 an interaction between drugs that produces an effect greater than the expected additi6e effect of the different drugs used separately. -2)",G%-T%C "##"CT8 The interaction of two or more drugs such that their combined effect is greater than the sum of the indi6idual effects when each drug is administered alone. -2-T"M%C8 affecting the whole body. -2-T"M%C (.*.- ",2T$"MATO-.- 4(.*.-78 an autoimmune disease characteri:ed by inflammation of connecti6e tissue throughout the body, especially in the 5oints. -2)T$"-%-8 production. ack to top T TAC"8 see transcatheter arterial chemoemboli:ation. T=A% C$%8 a traditional Chinese exercise that promotes the health flow of <i.

TA.,%)"8 an amino acid synthesi:ed by the li6er that is necessary for many bodily functions. T9C"(( 4T9(2M*$OC2T"78 a type of immune system white blood cell. T"(A*,"/%, 4/19MCD78 an $C/ protease inhibitor under de6elopment by /ertex to treat hepatitis C. T",ATOG")%C%T28 causing birth defects or malformation of the fetus. T"-TO-T",O)"8 the primary male sex hormone or a synthetic analog. Testosterone stimulates the de6elopment of male secondary sex characteristics and the production of sperm. T$%OCT%C AC%!8 see alpha lipoic acid. T$%-2(%)8 an acti6e component of milk thistle. T$,OM OC2T" 4*(AT"("T78 a type of blood cell responsible for normal blood clotting. T$,OM OC2TO*")%A8 an abnormally low number of platelets, which may result in abnormal bleeding and easy bruising. T$,OM OC2TO*")%C *.,*.,A8 a condition caused by a lack of platelets. -mall blood 6essels under the skin bleed, resulting in purplish discolorations. T$,OM O*O%"T%) 4T*O78 a cytokine that stimulates the production of platelets. T$,OM O-%-8 de6elopment of blood clots within blood 6essels or the heart. T$2M%C #ACTO,8 a hormone produced by the thymus gland or a synthetic substance that has a similar effect. Thymic factors help promote immune system acti6ity, and are under study as a treatment for $C/. #actors include thymosin, thymopentin, and thymopoietin. T$2MO*O%"T%)8 see thymic factor. T$2MO*")T%)8 see thymic factor. T$2MO-%)9A(*$A 43A!A1%)78 a thymic factor under study as a treatment for chronic $C/. T$2M.- G(A)!8 a gland in the chest that plays an important role in immune system function; the gland is acti6e in children, but less so in adults.

T$2,O%! G(A)!8 an organ at base of the neck that produces thyroxin and other hormones in6ol6ed in regulating metabolism. T$2,O%!%T%-8 inflammation of the thyroid gland. T%!8 taken three times daily. T%))%T.-8 ringing or bu::ing in the ears. TMA8 see transcripton mediated amplification. TOCO*$",A(8 see 6itamin ". TO(",A %(%T28 the degree to which a drug or other agent produces ad6erse side effects. TO*%CA(8 a medication applied to the skin surface. TO1%C%T2 4ad5ecti6e TO1%C78 the <uality of being poisonous or harmful; often used to refer to drug side effects. TO1%)8 a harmful or poisonous agent. T,AC" "("M")T8 a substance needed in 6ery small amounts for the proper functioning of the body. T,A!%T%O)A( C$%)"-" M"!%C%)" 4TCM78 an ancient Asian system of healing that focuses on achie6ing internal balance. TCM practitioners use methods such as acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal formulas, and exercises such as t=ai chi and <igong to restore the flow of <i 46ital energy7 within the body. T,A)-AM%)A-"8 see aminotransferase. T,A)-CAT$"T", A,T",%A( C$"MO"M O(%3AT%O) 4TAC"78 a treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma that in6ol6es the in5ection of chemotherapeutic drugs into the tumor=s blood supply. T,A)-C,%*T%O) 46erb T,A)-C,% "78 the process of copying genetic material. T,A)-C,%*TO) M"!%AT"! AM*(%#%CAT%O) 4TMA78 a recently de6eloped, highly sensiti6e 6iral load test. T,A)-#.-%O)8 the transfer of blood or blood components from one indi6idual to another 4or back to the donor, in the case of autologous transfusion7.

T,A)-%")T8 short9li6ed; not permanent. T,A)-&.G.(A, (%/", %O*-28 a type of li6er biopsy in which a sample is taken through the 5ugular 6ein in the neck. T,A)-M%--%O)8 spread of a pathogenic organism from one person to another. T,A)-*(A)T8 surgical transfer of an organ from one person to another. T,"ATM")T9"1*",%")C"!8 a person who has had prior treatment for a particular condition. T,"ATM")T9)A%/"8 a person who has not had prior treatment for a particular condition. T,"ATM")T ,"-*O)-"8 a fa6orable outcome from therapy. -e6eral different measures are used to describe $C/ treatment response, including biochemical response, histological response, end9of9treatment response, and sustained 6irological response. T,%A(8 see clinical trial. T,%G(2C",%!"8 an organic compound made up of a fatty acid plus glycerol. T,O.G$ ("/"(8 the lowest le6el of a drug reached between doses. Contrast with peak le6el. T-$8 thyroid stimulating hormone. T9-.**,"--O, C"((8 a type of T9cell that helps to regulate and control immune system acti6ity. T.MO,8 an abnormal growth of cells. Tumors may be malignant 4cancerous7 or benign 4harmless7. T0%),%18 brand name of a combination hepatitis A@hepatitis T18 treatment, transplant. T2*" E !%A "T"-8 see diabetes mellitus. T2*" A !%A "T"-8 see diabetes mellitus. ack to top . 6accine.

.(T,A9,A*%! /%,O(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-" 4.,/,78 undetectable $C/ ,)A at 0eek A of treatment. .(T,A-O)OG,A*$2 4.(T,A-O.)!78 a method of 6isuali:ing the internal parts of the body, or a fetus within the uterus, using sound wa6es. .) (%)!"!8 see blinding. .)CO)T,O(("! T,%A(8 a clinical trial in which all participants recei6e the experimental treatment and none recei6e a standard treatment or placebo for comparison. .)!"T"CTA (" 4.)+.A)T%#%A ("78 a term used to describe a 6iral load 4amount of 6iral ,)A7 that is below the le6el of detection of the test being used. .)%/A,%AT" A)A(2-%-8 a statistical analysis that takes into account a single factor or 6ariable. .)%/",-A( *,"CA.T%O)-8 techni<ues used by health9care pro6iders 4e.g., use of glo6es and face masks, proper disposal of used syringes7 to pre6ent the spread of infectious diseases. .)O- 4.nited )etwork of Organ -haring78 a non9profit organi:ation that runs the Organ *rocurement and Transplant )etwork which o6ersees the fair distribution of organs for transplantation. .,-O!%O( 4brand name ACT%GA((78 a bile acid deri6ed from bears that is being studied as a treatment for $C/. ack to top / /ACC%)"8 a preparation administered to stimulate an immune response to protect a person from illness. A 6accine typically includes a small amount of a killed or inacti6ated microorganism, or genetically engineered pieces. A therapeutic 4treatment7 6accine is gi6en after infection and is intended to reduce or stop disease progression. A pre6enti6e 4prophylactic7 6accine is intended to pre6ent initial infection. /A(O*%C%TA %)" 4)MA?B78 an $C/ polymerase inhibitor under study to treat chronic $C/. /A,%C"A( $"MO,,$AG"8 bleeding from stretched and weakened blood 6essels, especially in the esophagus or stomach. /A,%C"- 4ad5ecti6e /A,%C"A(78 an abnormally dilated or swollen 6ein, artery, or lymph 6essel resulting from portal hypertension.

/A-C.(%T%-8 blood 6essel inflammation. /"%)8 Any of the membranous tubes that form a branching system and carry blood to the heart from other organs. /",T%CA( T,A)-M%--%O) 4*",%)ATA( T,A)-M%--%O)78 transmission from a mother to a fetus or newborn. /ertical transmission may occur in utero 4in the womb7, intrapartum 4during birth7, or postpartum 4e.g., 6ia breast9feeding7. /%,A( $"*AT%T%-8 a type of hepatitis caused by a 6irus. The most common types are hepatitis A, hepatitis , and hepatitis C. /%,A( (OA!8 the amount of 6irus in the blood or other tissues, usually expressed in terms of copies of 6iral genetic material 4,)A or !)A7. The presence of genetic material indicates that a 6irus is acti6ely replicating. /%,A( (OA! T"-T8 an assay that measures 6iral load; the b!)A, *C,, and TMA tests are most often used to determine $C/ 6iral load. /%,A( ,"-*O)-"8 see 6irological response. /%,AM%!%)"8 a prodrug of riba6irin under study to treat chronic $C/. /%,"M%A 4ad5ecti6e /%,"M%C78 the presence of a 6irus in the blood. /%,%O)8 a complete 6irus particle. /%,O(OG%CA( #A%(.,"8 failure of a treatment to suppress a 6irus. /%,O(OG%CA( ,"-*O)-"8 reduction in 6iral replication in response to treatment. %n $C/, a complete 6irological response means that a person=s $C/ ,)A becomes undetectable with treatment. /%,O(OG28 the study of 6iruses and diseases caused by 6iruses. /%,.(")C" 4ad5ecti6e /%,.(")T78 aggressi6eness, ability to cause disease. /%,.-8 a microscopic infectious organism that is unable to grow or replicate outside of a host cell. /iruses integrate their genetic material 4!)A or ,)A7 into a host cell and take o6er the cell=s biological mechanisms to reproduce new 6irus particles. /%TAM%)8 an organic substance that acts as a coen:yme or regulator of metabolic processes; 6itamins are crucial for many 6ital bodily functions. /%TAM%) A8 a fat9soluble 6itamin synthesi:ed from beta carotene within the body that

has antioxidant properties and is important for proper immune system functioning. "xcess 6itamin A can be toxic to the li6er. /%TAM%) 8 a complex of se6eral important 6itamins including E 4thiamin7, A 4ribofla6in7, B 4niacin7, I 4pyridoxine7, and EA 4cobalamin7. /%TAM%) EA 4CO A(AM%)78 a 6itamin needed for red blood cell production and !)A synthesis and repair. /itamin EA deficiency may result in anemia, neurological dysfunction, and changes in mental status. /%TAM%) C 4A-CO, %C AC%!78 an antioxidant 6itamin that protects cells from oxidati6e damage. /itamin C deficiency may result in poor healing, easy bruising and anemia. /%TAM%) !8 a fat9soluble 6itamin that is important for mineral metabolism and which may play a role in immune function. "xcess 6itamin ! can be toxic to the li6er. /%TAM%) " 4TOCO*$",O(78 an antioxidant 6itamin that protects cell membranes from oxidati6e damage. /%TAM%) '8 a substance important for blood clotting. /%TAM%) *8 see biofla6inoid. /%T%(%GO8 a condition in which there is loss of pigmentation P usually around the mouth, eyes, nose, elbows, knees and wrists. /19MCD8 an $C/ protease inhibitor under study to treat chronic $C/. ack to top 0 0A-$O.T *",%O!8 the time it takes for a drug to be cleared from the body after it is discontinued. 0A-T%)G -2)!,OM"8 a condition characteri:ed by atrophy of lean body mass and in6oluntary weight loss. 0AT",9-O(. ("8 capable of being dissol6ed in water. Contrast with fat9soluble. 0 C8 white blood cell. -ee leukocyte. 0"((#",O)8 brand name of lymphoblastoid interferon9alpha9nE, produced by Glaxo-mith'line.

0"-T",) (OT8 an antibody test used to confirm a positi6e "(%-A test for $%/. 0"-T",) M"!%C%)"8 allopathic medicine; the type of medical practice typically used in )orth America and 0estern "urope. 0$%T" (OO! C"(( 40 C78 see leukocyte. 0%(-O)=- !%-"A-"8 a hereditary disorder affecting copper metabolism. 0%)!O0 *",%O!8 the time between exposure to a microorganism and the production of sufficient antibodies to be detected on a test. 0)(8 within normal limits. ack to top 1 1")OG,A#T 41")OT,A)-*(A)T78 a transplant of an organ or tissue from a different species. ack to top 2 4no definitions are posted at this time7 ack to top 3 3A!A1%)8 see thymosin9alpha. 3%)C8 an essential trace mineral.