Terms and Definitions
  • Appendicitis: inflammation of the appendix.


  • Atresia: the absence of closure of a natural passage of the body.


  • Benign: of a mild character that does not threaten health or life.


  • Congenital: existing at birth.


  • Gastroesophogeal reflux disease: a condition in which stomach contents leak back into the esophagus, causing heartburn-type symptoms.


  • Hernia: the protrusion of an organ or part of an organ through the wall of a cavity.


  • Hiatal hernia: a hernia in which a body part (such as the stomach) pushes through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm.


  • Jaundice: a yellowing of the skin, tissues, and certain bodily fluids caused by bile pigments.


  • Lymphoma: usually a malignant tumor of the lymphoid tissue.


  • Malignant: tending to produce death or deterioration.


  • Sternum: the bone or cartilage in the center of the body that connects with the clavicles and cartilages of the upper seven pairs of ribs.


  • Tumor: an abnormal growth of tissue, also referred to as a growth or a mass, that can be benign or malignant.