Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

cardiovascular system
The heart and blood
vessels. Also known as circulatory system.
cardioversion
The conversion of a cardiac rhythm
or electrical pattern to another, generally from an
abnormal one to a normal one. Cardioversion can be
accomplished by using medications or by electrical
shock with a special defibrillator.
cardioverter
A defibrillator that is used in car-
dioversion (the conversion of one cardiac rhythm to
another). See also 
cardiac defibrillator,
implantable.
carditis
Inflammation of the heart.
care, ambulatory
See 
ambulatory care.
care, managed
See 
managed care.
care, nail
See 
nail care.
care proxy, health
See 
health care proxy.
caries
Dental cavities in the two outer layers of a
tooth (the enamel and the dentin). Small caries may
not cause pain, and may not be noticed by the
patient. Larger caries can collect food, and the inner
pulp of the affected tooth can become irritated by
bacterial toxins or by foods that are cold, hot, sour,
or sweet causing a toothache. Caries are caused by
the Streptococcus bacteria, which produces an
enamel-dissolving acid as it devours carbohydrate
deposits (plaque) on the teeth. To prevent caries,
one should brush and floss the teeth daily, use a
bacteriocidal mouthwash, and have regular dental
cleanings by a professional. If caries do occur, the
eroded area can be cleaned and filled by a dentist to
prevent further damage.
carotene, beta
See 
beta carotene.
carotenemia
An excessive blood level of
carotene, which causes a temporary yellowing of the
skin (pseudojaundice). Carotenemia is most com-
monly seen in infants fed too much mashed carrots
and adults consuming high quantities of carrots,
carrot juice, or beta carotene in supplement form.