Glossary T

TCA

See Tricyclic antidepressants (TCA).

Tender point

A localised area that is more sensitive to pressure than surrounding areas. Specific tender points are used in the diagnosis of Fibromyalgia Syndrome, as these sensitive points allow the hypersensitivity of Fibromyalgia to be measured to some degree.

Thalamus

A large area of grey matter within the brain that relays nerve impulses from the basal ganglia to the cerebellum, both parts of the brain that control and regulate muscle movement.

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)

A hormone produced by the pituitary in response to signals from the hypothalamus. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) promotes the growth of the thyroid gland and stimulates it to produce more thyroid hormones. When there is an excessive amount of thyroid hormones, the pituitary gland stops producing TSH, reducing thyroid hormone production. The TSH test is a blood test to check on the function of the Thyroid gland.

Titrate

Gradually increasing or decreasing the dose of a medication.

Tolerance

A diminution of response to a stimulus after prolonged exposure. E.g. drug tolerance is a decrease in susceptibility to the effects of a drug due to its continued administration.

Topical

Of or applied to a definite or localized area of the body.

TP

See Tender point

Tramacet

US Brand name Ultracet. A medication that is a combination of Tramadol and Paracetamol.

Tramadol

Brand name Tramal. US Brand name Ultram. An atypical Opioid and centrally acting Analgesic for use in the management of moderate to moderately severe pain.

Trans

A prefix meaning across or through.

Transdermal

Through or by way of the skin.

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCA)

An old class of antidepressants, named for the molecular structure containing three fused rings.

Trigger Point

See Myofascial Trigger Point (TrP).

TrP

See Myofascial Trigger Point (TrP).

TSH

See Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).

Tylenol

A common US brand of the analgesic medication Acetamenophin (Paracetamol).