Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

594 •DOG OWNER’S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK
Karyotyping Analysis of the number, size, and shape of the paired chromosomes
of a specific dog to determine the dog’s sex.
Killed vaccine A vaccine made from killed virus particles. Killed vaccines
are generally safe, but may not be as effective as modified live vaccines (MLV).
Laparoscopy A surgical procedure in which an endoscope and surgical
instruments are inserted into the abdomen through several small incisions.
Lavage Flushing out a wound or cavity with large amounts of irrigating
solution.
Lesion Damage to tissue caused by an injury or a specific disease.
LH Luteinizing hormone, produced by the pituitary gland. It causes ovarian
follicles to mature and ovulate.
Ligation Tying off a vessel.
Lobulated Having the appearance of several lobes or swellings.
Luteal activity The influence of the corpora lutea, particularly the effects of
progesterone.
Luteal phase See diestrus.
Luteolysis The process that results in the regression and disappearance of
the corpora lutea. Accompanied by a fall in serum progesterone.
Luxation The displacement of a bone from its normal position within a
joint.
Lymphadenopathy The enlargement of one or more lymph nodes as the
result of inflammation or cancer.
Macule A spot on the skin that is a different color (such as red or whitish)
but is not elevated.
Malignant A growth that is a cancer that is likely to spread throughout the
body and may be life threatening.
Megaesophagus An enlarged esophagus that does not contract well and
interferes with normal swallowing.
Melanin Naturally occurring dark pigment.
Melena The dark or tarry black stools associated with upper gastrointestinal
bleeding (bleeding in the stomach, duodenum, or small intestines).
Meniscus A cushioning pad of cartilage interposed between two bones.
Merle A color pattern involving a dominant gene and characterized by dark
splotches against a lighter background of the same pigment (seen in Collies,
Shetland Sheepdogs, Australian Cattle Dogs, and some other breeds).
Metastasize The spread of a cancer from its site of origin to another part of
the body.