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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Lactase Deficiency
Lack of the lactase enzyme. Causes lactose intolerance.
Lactose Intolerance
Being unable to digest lactose.
Laparoscope
Used to look inside the body and see the surface of organs.
Laparoscopy
A test that uses a laparoscope to look at and take tissue from the inside of the body.
Laparotomy
An operation that opens up the abdomen.
Large Intestine
The part of the intestine that goes from the cecum to the rectum. Also called colon.
Lavage
A cleaning of the stomach and colon.
Laxatives
Medicines to relieve long-term constipation.
Levator Syndrome
Feeling of fullness in the anus and rectum with occasional pain. Caused by muscle spasms.
Ligaments
Stretchy bands of cordlike tissue that connect bone to bone.
Lipid
A term for fat.
Lithotripsy, Extracorporeal Shock Wave (ESWL)
A method of breaking up bile stones and gallstones. Uses a specialized tool and shock waves.
Liver
The liver carries out many important functions, such as making bile, changing food into energy, and cleaning alcohol and poisons from the blood.
Lower Esophageal Ring
An abnormal ring of tissue that may partially block the lower esophagus. Synonym: Schatzki's ring.
Lower GI Series
X-rays of the rectum, colon, and lower part of the small intestine, after giving barium enema. Synonym: barium enema x-ray.