Letter D
DYSTROPHIC CALCIFICATIONS
These can have many different appearances. These are usually irregularly shaped but have smooth borders (). These are usually considered not cancerous.
DURAL VENOUS SINUS THROMBOSIS
An abnormal clotting of the dural sinuses that results in a blockage of blood flow. This can be serious as the brain could bleed or stroke. Most commonly a thrombosis can be caused by abnormal blood clotting, medications such as oral contraceptives, or tumors.
DURAL VENOUS SINUS
Are normal venous channels in the brain that drain the blood. It consists of the major and minor dural veins. The major dural veins are the superior and inferior sagittal sinus, the straight sinus, vein of Galen, and the transverse and sigmoid sinuses.
DURAL ECTASIA
A softening or “laxity” of the dura that can occur in the brain or spine. It is usually of no consequence but when large enough can cause mass effect or erosions on the bones.
DURAL
Referring to a process affecting the dura.
DURA
The covering of the brain surface. Along with the arachnoid and pia it forms the meninges that covers the brain.
DUCTOGRAPHY
A study used to look at the milk ducts of the breasts. Contrast material is injected into the nipple and a mammogram picture is taken.
DUCTAL CARCINOMA IN SITU (DCIS)
A non-invasive breast cancer that is contained in the milk ducts. This has not spread outside of the ducts, yet.
DOT-DASH BRANCHING CALCIFICATIONS
The calcifications look like alternating dots and dashes. These are worrisome because there is high likelihood that these are associated with cancer.
DORSAL
Refers to the back side of something.
Search By Alphabet
