Online Medical Dictionary

Letter Y

Y Chromosome

One of the two sex determining chromosomes composing human. Men contain one Y chromosome and one X chromosome, while ordinarily women contain no Y chromosome, but two X chromosomes.

Y-linked

A gene on the Y chromosome that will determine a specific trait. A Y-linked gene may only be passed from father to son, as women contain no Y chromosome from which or to which to transmit the Y-linked gene.

Yeast Infection

A fungal virus induced by any of the species Candida, thus the alternate name Candidiasis. A yeast infection may occur in the throat (See Thrush), in the vagina (See Vaginitis)or internally as more serious and life-impeding diseases. Treatment usually involved a topical or oral antifungal.

Yellow Fever

An acute mosquito-borne, hemorrhagic viral disease. Vaccination is available in many countries and often required before travel abroad. If the disease in contracted, antivirals may be administered and hospitalization is usually necessitated.