Medical Terminology Simplified

Chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by unusual antibodies in

the blood that target tissues of the body with a butterfly-shaped rash that appears on

the face (See Fig. 5–12.)

There is a sensitivity to sunlight, fatigue, and joint pain. Treatment includes anti-

inflammatories, immunosuppressives, and corticosteroids. The rash tends to get worse

when exposed to direct sunlight.

Diagnostic Procedures

Cardiovascular System

Insertion of a catheter into the heart through a vein or artery, usually of an arm

(brachial approach) or leg (femoral approach) to provide evaluation of the heart

(See Fig. 5–13.)

During CC, the cardiologist may also inject a contrast medium and take x-rays

(angiography). Cardiac catheterization is used mainly in diagnosing and evaluating

congenital, rheumatic, and coronary artery lesions, including myocardial infarction.

Tests that measure levels of enzymes and proteins in the blood that increase with an

injury to heart muscle, such as from a heart attack

Cardiac enzyme studies help determine whether angina, shortness of breath, or abnor-

mal electrocardiography results indicate a heart attack or imminent heart attack.

194 CHAPTER 5• Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems

systemic lupus erythe-

matosus (SLE)

LŪ-pŭs

ĕr-ĭ-thē-mă-TŌ-sĭs

cardiac enzyme studies

KĂR-dē-ăk ĔN-zīm

cardiac catheterization

(CC)

KĂR-dē-ăk

kăth-ĕ-tĕr-ĭ-ZĀ-shŭn

cardi: heart

-ac: pertaining to

Figure 5-12Butterfly rash of systemic lupus erythematosus.