 |
||
 |
 |
|
|
MedTerms Medical Dictionary |
||
|
||
Icterus: Jaundice. At least one medical dictionary defines icterus as the presence of jaundice seen in the sclera of the eye. This is incorrect. Icterus is synonymous with jaundice. They are one and the same thing. Curiously, both icterus and jaundice come from the Greek. Icterus is a Latinized (-us) form of the Greek word "ikteros" and to the ancient Greeks signified both "jaundice" and "a yellow bird." It was thought that jaundice could be cured if the patient gazed at the bird. The disease would transmigrate from the jaundiced patient to the hapless bird (JAMA 184: 615, 1963). For related information, see Jaundice. |
||
|
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Find a medical definition by using the A-Z listing (select a letter) |
||
|
Copyright © 1996-2003 MedicineNet,
Inc. All rights reserved. Information in the MedTerms Medical Dictionary is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should carefully read all product packaging. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. |
| Main Navigation |
|
Use the A-Z listing (select a letter) to find a definition A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
|