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implantable cardiac defibrillator

A small device that delivers an electric shock to restore an abnormal heart rhythm back to a normal rhythm.

in vitro fertilisation

Fertilisation of the female reproductive cell (ovum) outside the body, before implantation into the uterus (womb). Abbreviated to IVF.

inadequate smear result

A cervical screening test sample that cannot be interpreted properly, and so will need to be repeated.

incidence

The number of new episodes of a condition arising in a certain group of people over a specified period of time.

incontinence

The involuntary passage of urine or faeces.

incretin

A type of hormone produced in the gut, which stimulates insulin release.

indigestion

Discomfort after eating.

infantile colic

Episodes of irritability and excessive crying in otherwise healthy babies, thought to be due to spasmodic pain in the intestines.

infarct

Death of a piece of tissue owing to obstruction of its blood supply.

infarction

Death of a portion of tissue due to inadequate blood supply

infection

Invasion by organisms that may be harmful, for example bacteria or parasites.

inferior vena cava

The large vein that carries de-oxygenated blood from the lower half of the body to the heart.

inflammation

The body’s response to injury.

inflammatory bowel disease

A group of inflammatory conditions of the intestine. The two major forms are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

influenza

A viral infection affecting the respiratory system.

inguinal

Relating to the area around the groin.

inguinoscrotal

Relating to the groin and scrotum.

INR

International Normalised Ratio - a test of the blood's clotting ability, used to monitor treatment with anticoagulants such as warfarin.

insoluble

A substance that cannot be dissolved.

insulin

A hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas that acts to lower blood glucose levels.

insulin resistance

A reduced response of the body to the hormone insulin, resulting in raised blood glucose levels.

insulinoma

A tumour of the pancreas that is usually benign.

intention tremor

Wide tremor during voluntary movements.

interferon

A substance that can inhibit viral growth.