Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

PEG
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. See
gastrostomy, percutaneous endoscopic.
pellagra
Extreme niacin deficiency, character-
ized by a rash (dermatitis) on areas of the skin that
are exposed to light, trauma and ulcerations within
the mouth, diarrhea, mental disorientation (demen-
tia), confusion, delusions, and depression. Pellagra
can be fatal if untreated. Proper intake of niacin, a
readily available B vitamin, both prevents and cures
pellagra. See also 
niacin.
pelvic
1
Having to do with the pelvis.
2
Colloquially, a pelvic exam.
pelvic exam
An examination of the organs of the
female reproductive system. During a typical pelvic
exam, a speculum is used to open the vagina so that
the physician can see the uterine cervix. A sample of
cells may be taken from the surface of the cervix for
a Pap test, or a sample may be obtained for labora-
tory culture. During a pelvic exam, a physician feels
the uterus (womb) and ovaries with the fingers to
detect swellings or other abnormalities.
pelvic inflammatory disease
Ascending infec-
tion of the upper female genital tract, usually caused
by bacteria migrating upward from the urethra and
cervix into the upper genital tract. Abbreviated PID.
Many different organisms can cause PID, but most
cases are associated with gonorrhea and chlamydial
infections, two very common sexually transmitted
diseases (STDs). Symptoms include fever, foul-
smelling discharge, extreme pain, pain during inter-
course, and bleeding. PID can scar the fallopian
tubes, which can lead to infertility. Treatment
involves use of antibiotics for the patient as well as
all known sexual partners of the patient.
pelvis
The lower part of the abdomen, located
between the hip bones. Structures in the female
pelvis include the uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian
tubes, bladder, and rectum. Structures in the male
pelvis include the bladder, rectum, prostate, testi-
cles, and penis.