Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

353
psychosis
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Psychotic symptoms can occur as a result of drug
use, but that is not true psychosis. Diagnosis is
made via observation and interview. Treatment
involves use of medication such as risperidone
(brand name: Risperdal) or haloperidol (brand
name: Haldol). 
psychosis, ICU
See 
ICU psychosis.
psychosomatic illness
A situation in which the
mind influences the body to create or complicate an
illness.
psychotherapy
The treatment of a behavior dis-
order, mental illness, or any other condition by psy-
chological means. Psychotherapy may utilize
insight, persuasion, suggestion, reassurance, and
instruction so that patients may see themselves and
their problems more realistically and have the
desire to cope effectively with them. There are many
different types of psychotherapy, including cognitive
therapy, family therapy, interpersonal therapy, and
psychodynamic therapy.
psychotropic drug
Any drug capable of affecting
the mind, emotions, and behavior. Some legal
drugs, such as lithium for bipolar disorder, are psy-
chotropic. Many illicit drugs, such as cocaine, are
also psychotropic. Also known as psychodynamic
drug.
PTCA
Percutaneous transluminal coronary
angioplasty.
pterygium
A wing-like triangular membrane.
Although a pterygium can be anywhere, including
behind the knee, it commonly refers to a winglet of
the conjunctiva. This pterygium may extend across
the white of the eye, toward the inner corner of the
eye. It is caused by prolonged exposure of the eyes
to wind and weather, or it can be an inherited dis-
order caused by a single gene. A pterygium can be
removed with surgical procedures including laser
treatment.