Direct
Direct (Medicine)
Direct (pronounced: /dɪˈrɛkt/ or /daɪˈrɛkt/) is a term used in various contexts in the field of medicine. The term originates from the Latin word directus, meaning 'straight' or 'unswerving'.
Definitions
In a medical context, 'direct' can refer to:
- A type of physical examination where the examiner uses their senses directly, without the aid of any instruments. This is in contrast to an indirect examination, where instruments are used.
- In laboratory medicine, a 'direct' test is one that detects the presence of a specific substance, as opposed to an indirect test, which detects antibodies or immune responses.
- In anatomy, 'direct' can refer to a structure that follows a straight or unswerving course, as opposed to an indirect structure, which deviates from a straight path.
Related Terms
- Direct examination: A type of physical examination where the examiner uses their senses directly, without the aid of any instruments.
- Direct test: In laboratory medicine, a test that detects the presence of a specific substance, as opposed to an indirect test, which detects antibodies or immune responses.
- Direct structure: In anatomy, a structure that follows a straight or unswerving course, as opposed to an indirect structure, which deviates from a straight path.
Etymology
The term 'direct' originates from the Latin word directus, meaning 'straight' or 'unswerving'. It entered the English language in the 14th century, and has been used in a medical context since at least the 17th century.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Direct
- Wikipedia's article - Direct
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