- nocifensor
- Denoting processes or mechanisms that act to protect the body from injury; specifically, a system of nerves in the skin and mucous membranes that react to adjacent injury by causing vasodilation. [noci- + L. fendo (only in compounds), to strike, ward off]
* * *
no·ci·fen·sor -'fen(t)-sər adj of, relating to, or constituting a system of cutaneous nerve fibers held to mediate diffuse pain sensations* * *
no·ci·fen·sor (no″sĭ-fenґsər) [noci- + L. fendere to defend] protecting against injury; said of a system of nerves in the skin and mucous membranes which are concerned with local defense against injury.
Medical dictionary. 2011.