Email a Friend
Print ArticleMedical Dictionary
fungus
Pronunciation (fŭng′gŭs, fŭn′jī)
- A general term used to encompass the diverse morphologic forms of yeasts and molds. Originally classified as primitive plants without chlorophyll, the fungi are placed in the kingdom Fungi and some in the kingdom Protista, along with the algae (all but the blue-green algae), the protozoa, and the slime molds. Fungi share with bacteria the important ability to break down complex organic substances of almost every type (cellulose) and are essential to the recycling of carbon and other elements in the cycle of life. Fungi are important as foods and to the fermentation process in the development of substances of industrial and medical importance, including alcohol, the antibiotics, other drugs, and foods. Relatively few types of fungus are pathogenic for humans, whereas most plant diseases are caused by fungi.
[L. fungus, a mushroom]
WebMD Medical Reference from "Stedman's Medical Dictionary"
The publisher is not responsible (as a matter of product liability,
negligence or otherwise) for any injury resulting from any material contained
herein. This publication contains information relating to general principles of
medical care which should not be construed as specific instructions for
individual patients. Manufacturers’ product information and package inserts
should be reviewed for current information, including contraindications,
dosages and precautions.
Stedman’s Medical Dictionary 28th Edition, Copyright© 2006_Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. All rights reserved.
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
To avoid injury before you hit the gym, personal trainer, Aaron Small, PhD offers these hamstring and calf stretches.
Most Popular Stories
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.