“ETHICALLY IMPOSSIBLE” STD Research in Guatemala from 1946-1948 
abscess — a collection of pus that typically causes swelling and inflammation 
around it. 
abrasion - scraping the surface of the skin in order to facilitate disease 
transmission. 
alkyl aryl sulfate - a sulfur-bas*ed component of orvus-mapharsen. 
antibody — a protein that is generated by the body’s immune system when 
foreign substances, called antigens, are recognized. 
anticonvulsant - a medication used to treat or prevent seizures. 
argyrol solution - an antiseptic containing a compound of protein and silver. 
bismuth - a metallic element similar to arsenic that is often used in pharma- 
ceutical compounds. 
brain stem - the part of the brain that connects the spinal cord to the fore- 
brain and cerebrum. 
calomel ointment - a substance used by the U.S. Army and Navy as a post- 
exposure prophylaxis for syphilis. 
cerebrospinal fluid - a clear liquid that is secreted from the blood into the 
ventricles of the brain and serves to maintain uniform pressure within the 
brain and the spinal cord. 
cervix - the opening of the uterus. 
chancre - an ulcer that forms at the site of infection in the primary stages of 
syphilis. 
chancroid — a bacterial disease caused by Haemophilus ducreyi that is spread 
through sexual contact. The disease is characterized by bumps that transform 
into ulcers. 
chemical prophylaxis - a chemical agent used as a protective or preventative 
treatment against disease. 
chemotherapy - the use of chemical agents in the treatment of a disease. 
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