Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

empiric risk
The chance that a disease will
occur in a family, based on experience with the
elliptocytosis
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diagnosis, past history, and medical records rather
than theory.
empirical
Based on experience and observation
rather than on systematic logic. Experienced physi-
cians often use empirical reasoning to make diag-
noses, based on having seen many cases over the
years. Less-experienced physicians are more likely
to use diagnostic guides and manuals. In practice,
both approaches (if properly applied) can lead to
the same diagnosis.
empyema
Pus in the pleural space between the
outer surface of the lung and the chest wall.
Empyema is typically a result of a serious bacterial
infection. Empyema is a type of pleural effusion, one
that is grossly infected. See also 
effusion, pleural;
pneumonia.
EMT
Emergency medical technician.
enanthem
A rash inside the body. Koplik spots
within the mouth in measles constitute enanthem.
By contrast, a rash on the outside of the body is
called exanthem. A patient with measles can have
both exanthem and enanthem. See also 
exanthem;
measles; rash.
encapsulated
Confined to a specific area. For
example, an encapsulated tumor remains in a com-
pact form.
encephalitis
Inflammation of the brain, which
may be caused by a bacterium, a virus, or an aller-
gic reaction. Some forms of viral encephalitis are
contagious. Encephalitis usually runs a short
course, with full recovery within a week, but can
cause brain damage and death. Treatment of
encephalitis must begin as early as possible to avoid
potentially serious and lifelong effects. Depending
on the cause of the inflammation, treatment may
include use of antibiotics, antiviral medications, and
anti-inflammatory drugs. If brain damage results
from encephalitis, therapy (such as physical therapy
or cognitive restoration therapy) may help patients
regain lost functions.