Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

mask of pregnancy
See 
melasma.
masklike face
See 
face, masklike.
masochism
The derivation of pleasure from
one’s own pain. Masochism is considered a sexual
disorder (paraphilia). Named after the 19th-century
Austrian writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch.
MASS syndrome
Mitral valve/myopia, aorta,
skeleton, and skin syndrome, a heritable disorder
of connective tissue that is characterized by involve-
ment of all those structures. MASS syndrome is due
to a mutation in the fibrillin 1 gene FBN1, the same
gene that is mutated in Marfan syndrome and
is considered by some to be a form of Marfan
syndrome.
massage
The therapeutic practice of manipulat-
ing the muscles and limbs to ease tension and
reduce pain. Massage can be a part of physical ther-
apy or practiced on its own. It can be effective for
reducing the symptoms of disorders of or pain in
the muscles and nervous system, and it is often used
to reduce stress.
massage therapist
A person who practices ther-
apeutic massage. In many US states, massage thera-
pists can be licensed after completing a specified
training program. Licensed therapists may practice
independently or in medical settings.
masseter
The muscle that raises the lower jaw.
marijuana
260
14_189283 ch13.qxp 4/18/08 10:17 PM Page 260
http://www.rashidislamiccenter.com
http://www.allofislam.com/

---

mast cell
A granulocyte found in connective tis-
sue whose normal function is unknown but that is
frequently injured during allergic reactions. When a
mast cell is injured, it releases strong chemicals,
including histamine, into the tissues and blood.
These chemicals are very irritating and cause itch-
ing, swelling, and fluid leaking from cells. They can
also cause muscle spasm, leading to lung and throat
tightening (as is found in asthma) and loss of voice.
mastalgia
Pain in the breast or mammary gland,
whether serious or not. Mastalgia has many causes
including injury, infection, and plugged milk ducts.
mastectomy
A general term for removal of the
breast, usually to remove cancerous tissue. The
operation can be done in a hospital or in an outpa-
tient clinic, depending on how extensive it needs to
be. After a mastectomy, reconstructive surgery may
be performed to restore a more normal appear-
ance. In cases of nonmetastatic breast cancer, a
lumpectomy—with radiation, chemotherapy, or a
combination of these treatments—is sometimes
performed as an alternative to mastectomy.