Thursday, 25 April 2024, 2:12 AM
Site: VetLogic - E Learning and training for Vet Nurses
Course: VetLogic - E Learning and training for Vet Nurses (VetLogic)
Glossary: Glossary with audio assistance
O

Oedema

excessive accumulation of fluid in the tissues or body cavities; often results in swelling of the area

Oestrogen

female sex hormone secreted by the ovary

Olfaction

scientific name for the sensation of smell

Oliguria

reduced urine output

Omnivore

animal that eats both plants and meat

Organ

a group of tissues that perform a particular function

Organic substance

a substance that is derived from a living organism or contains hydrocarbon groups, for example fats and carbohydrates

Orthopnoea

breathing in an upright position, usually standing; the elbows are abducted to minimise compression of the chest wall

Osmoregulation

the maintenance of optimal osmotic pressure by controlling water and salt content of body fluids

Osmosis

the movement of water from an area of low concentration to one of high concentration through a semipermeable membrane, in order to equalise the concentrations on each side of the membrane