267 results found for "lymph"
The enzyme called 3-Methyl Glutaconyl-CoA Hydratase is involved in amino acid (Leucine) metabolism. This enzyme is located in the mitochondria together with other enzymes of catabolic leucine. When an individual has a deficiency of 3-Methyl Glutaconyl-CoA Hydratase, 3-methylglutaconic acid is excreted massively and the impaired leucine breaks down. Very few patients have been reported with this type of deficiency but its occurrence is a reality, nonetheless. There a few severe clinical cases that have been reported which resulted because of this deficiency. Some patients have developed severe cardiopulmonary manifestations as soon as they were born; others have been reported to have psychomotor retardation; other cases include hypotonia, seizures, spasticity and thriving failure. Carnitine levels are at their lowest with this deficiency occurs. There are also rare cases of recurrent acidosis (seen in cases of fasting that has been prolonged). There was also a reported case of speech retardation. [read more]
Aagenaes syndrome is a condition which is characterized by inborn hypoplasia of the lymph vessels. This eventually causes recurring cholestasis on the formative years lymphedema on the legs. This could develop into hepatic cirrhosis and giant cell hepatitis (which could occur with portal tract fibrosis). The name of Aagenaes syndrome was derived from a pediatrician in Norway named Oystein Aagenaes. The name was finalized in 1968 when the condition was first described by Aagenaes. It is sometimes called cholestasis-lymphedema syndrome or simply CLS. [read more]
Cystic lymphangioma is a very rare tumor (comprises just about 6% of tumors that are benign in children) which is often located in the axillary or cervical regions. Sometimes, there are exceptional cases where it is situated in the abdomen. When it is situated in the abdomen, it becomes a rare type of benign tumor which often appears in infants and some children under the age of 5. Boys are more vulnerable to this disease. Abdominal cystic lymphangioma happens when there is an inborn defect in the link of central connecting structure and the primary lymphatic channel. This manifests in abdominal tumors which could occur even without any compression from structures that are adjacent to that part. When clinically tested, these cysts appear as pseudo appendices or pseudo-ascites syndrome. [read more]
The deficiency or absence of T lymphocytes is a rare immuno-deficiency condition which is characterized by the lack of CD8(+) T lymphocytes and the absence or depression of the function of the T cell. A mutation of the gene for ZAP-70 (tyrosine kinase which has notable effects on indicating through the T cell receptor) has been associated with this syndrome. T cells are cells that belong to a cluster of white blood cells which are known as the lymphocytes. These lymphocytes are responsible in cell-mediated immunity. They are distinguished from the other types of lymphocytes (the NK cells and the B cells) through the presence of a specific receptor on the surface of these cells. This receptor is called as T cell receptor or the TCR. The T abbreviation in T cell refers to thymus which is the primary organ in the development of the T cell. [read more]
Acanthocheilonemiasis is an uncommon tropical infectious illness which is caused by Acanthocheilonema perstans, a parasite. This parasite causes rashes of the skin, chest and abdominal pains, joint and muscle pains, lumps on the skin and also neurologic defects. This disease is often transmitted when small flies bite the victim and the bite has the parasite with it. The scientific name of the fly that transmits the ?infectious bite' is A.Coliroides. Studies manifest that the white blood cell levels at elevated when the parasite is present in the human body. Acanthocheilonemiasis belongs to the parasitic diseases group which is called nematode or filarial diseases. This disease is often found in Africa only because the parasite is found abundantly on this region. Uganda, specifically, has had a lot of reported cases. A handful of patients were found in South America. Other names for this disease are Acanthocheilonemiasis perstans, Dipetalonema perstans, Mansonella perstans, and Dipetalonemiasis. [read more]
Syphilis is a venereal medical condition which is and which comes in two categories: acquired or congenital. Acquired syphilis is further divided into sub-categories which are early and late. The early stage consists of the primary, secondary and the early latent less than two years of being infected. The late sub-category is described as late latent greater than two years, tertiary which includes gummatous, neurological and cardiovascular involvement, the two latter forms are also termed as quartenary syphilis. [read more]
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, otherwise known as acute lymphocytic leukemia is another form of cancer of the white blood cells. In this case, the immature and malignant white blood cells continues to multiply in an abnormally rapid thereby causing overproduction in the bone marrow. This disease causes damage and death by actively crowding out the Bone marrow's normal cells and spread to the other organs in the body. ALL is found to be common among children and young adults. [read more]
Acute myelocytic leukemia (AML) is known to be the most common type of leukemia, which is found in adults, although people pf all ages can be affected by this serious medical condition. In AML, underdeveloped leukemia cells accumulate in the patient's bone marrow, thereby causing the destruction and replacement of cells that would produce normal blood cells. [read more]
Acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy (APMPPE) is a unusual form of eye disease that mostly affects Caucasia people ranging from ages 20?30 years old. This medical condition is characterized by a patient's central vision either in one or both eyes is affected or vision is completely lost due to inflammation a at thed the buildup of fluid in the back of the eye. [read more]
Mesenteric adenitis is characterized as an inflammation of the mesenteric lymph nodes found in the abdomen. If the inflammation is found in the right lower quadrant, most people would mistake it as appendicitis but is often preceded by sore throat. [read more]
An adrenal incidentaloma is an adrenal mass which is seen during the imaging for other causes that are non-adrenal related. This means that the lesion was discovered serendipitously. Adrenal incidentaloma is the most common adrenal disorder and it is found during 1-5% of CT scans for the abdomen. 5-10% of patients who are diagnosed with adrenal incidentaloma have masses that are non-functioning (this is based on postmortem examinations). This disease affects both males and females with most of the incidentalomas being hormonally inactive and benign. There are only a few numbers of cases where adrenalectomy is required (and this is done only when the lesion becomes functioning and malignant). The diagnostic assessment often evaluates the hormonal activity of the lesion and if it is malignant. Assessment of functions require plasma dihydroepiadosterone; urinary catecholamines for 24 hours and metanephrines; a low dosage of a test of dexamethasone suppression; serum ACTH; standing serum renin to aldosterone ration for hypertension and hypokalemia. The evaluation of the danger of malignancy requires MRI or CT scans; on CT lesions that are malignant are not regular, non-homogeneous and have great attenuation; for lesions that are MRI malignant, an clear concentration on T2 weighed image; it may also be useful to have CT guided cytology; there is also a need to exclude paechromocytoma before this procedure; [read more]
Still's disease was first discovered as a type of juvenile idiopathic arthritis that is common among children but is now also discovered to have a few cases in adults. The adult type is called the adult onset Still's disease (or AOSD). AOSD was first described by an English doctor in 1971. The physician's name was Bywaters who is also famous for his work on the crush syndrome. There are varying theories as to the cause of Still's disease. There is a suggestion that it originated from a microbacterial infection. To this day, the cause of the illness remains unknown. It is more securely established that the disorder's pathogenesis is autoimmune. [read more]
AIDS Dementia Complex (ADC) is one of the most common complications of HIV-1 infection. It is severe and is greatly associated with high morbidity. Its pathogenesis is still a mystery although as compared with other opportunistic infections of HIV, it is believed to be caused directly by the HIV-1 virus. ADC was first seen alongside the AIDS epidemic. As with the term, there is the persistent cognitive deterioration which not only affects the intellect of the patient but including the motor complex and behavior. Also, myelopahty is an important aspect of the ADC. The moment the patient is diagnosed with the ADC, it is staged according to the ADC Staging System. The staging is composed of five steps which are based on the cognitive and motor incapacity of the patient. The earlier stage is when there are neurologic symptoms but without the functional impairment and the advanced stage is when there is severe dysfunction. Generally, ADC affects the patient's cognition, motor skills and behavior. Usually the cognitive and motor skills are the first ones affected and the diagnosis is usually made when the patient manifest impairment of these skills. In a study conducted on the ADC, it was found that ADC is commonly found for those with advanced HIV-1 infection although it is also commonly found in those with preserved helper lymphocyte. This means that immunosuppression has an effect on the development of the complex. According to the data by the Community Programs for Clinical Research on AIDS (CPCRA), ADC is strongly associated with the advanced stage of HIV. Moreover it also showed that there is strong relationship between survival rate and the development of stage 2 and over of ADC. Compared with the mortality rate of Pneumocystic carinii pneumonia, the 6-months cumulative mortality rate of ADC is three times greater. Compared with other neurologic diseases it is almost the same is the 85% rate if PML, 70% of CNS lymphoma and 51% of cerebral toxoplasmosis. The high rate may be attributed to ineffectiveness of antiviral treatment, the vulnerability of neurologic debility and the hopelessness attitude of the caregivers. According to the most recent studies the HIV-1 plays a significant role in the development of ADC particularly those with severe cognitive dysfunction. It was found that it is due to the production of the macrophages and microglia by the HIV-1, which affects the neuronal dysfunction. There is also the activation of the cytokine circuits and the neuropahtologic sequelae which causes neurotoxicity. By identifying these factors doctors may soon find effective treatment for ADC. [read more]
Albinism immunodeficiency is an unusual persistent disorder that involves multiple systems of the body and occurs from an alteration in the lysosomal trafficking regulator gene, LYST. Because of the destruction of lysosome degranulation with phagosomes phagocytosed bacteria are not damaged by the lysosome's enzymes. Additionally, emission of lytic secretory granules in the cytotoxic T cells is also distressed. Not only doe sit happen to humans but also to cattle, blue Persian cats, white tigers and orcas. [read more]
Allergic angiitis is also known by another medical term called Churg-Strauss syndrome, which is characterized by a restricted blood flow to the various organs. While this disease normally involves any major body organ, it usually affects the skin and the lungs. The restricted flow of blood can cause serious damage of the affected areas. The restricted flow of blood to the body organs can cause temporary or permanent damage. [read more]
Alveolar osteitis or dry socket is a type of dental condition that typically occurs when the blood clots at the area where an extracted tooth is dislodged, and exposes the underlying nerves and bones. This causes increasing pain. [read more]
American trypanosomiasis, also known as Chagas' disease, is a human parasitic disease, which occurs in tropical areas in South America. The pathogenic agent of this disease is a ?flagellate protozoan? called ?Trypanosoma cruzi?, which is transmitted to mammals by blood-sucking assassin bugs of the Reduviidae Family. These insects are also called barbeiro, chupanca, chipo, vinchuca, benchuca and kissing bug. However, other forms of transmission are possible; some affected patients acquire the disease through fetal or blood transmission as well as ingestion of food contaminated with various parasites. [read more]
Angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia is more commonly known as the Castleman's disease, which is categorized as a very rare form of illness that primarily affects the lymph nodes as well as other immune-cell structures of the body. [read more]
Angiopathy refers to any disease associated with the blood vessels or the lymph vessels. When angiopathy is caused by diabetes, it is called diabetic angiopathy. Similar to most complications brought about by diabetes, diabetic angiopathy is primarily due to hyperglycemia or the high levels of blood sugar known to us as glucose. This disease can occur in any part of the body where the effect of high glucose level resulted to clogged up due to build up of plaque in the inner walls of the vessels. There are two types of this disease, macroangiopathy or microangiopathy. [read more]
Angiosarcoma is a cancerous tumor that develops from the blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. Such tumors could occur in any part of the body, but they mostly appear in the neck, head, legs and arms. [read more]
Aphthous stomatitis is a form of mouth ulcer that presents a painful open sore within the mouth, which is caused by a break in the patient's mucous membrane. Also known as aphthous ulcer or ?Sutton's disease?, the term ?aphtha? means ulcer. Aphthous stomatitis is characterized by repeated painful discrete areas of ulceration. Recurrent Aphthous stomatitis (RAD) is distinguished from other diseases by their multiplicity, chronicity and tendency to recur. RAD is one of the most common oral diseases, accounting to 10% of the population. Females are more affected by Aphthous stomatitis than men are. However, over 35% of patients with RAD have a family history of this disease. [read more]
Still's disease, is a kind of arthritis that occurs in children. Children with Still's disease often experience common arthritic symptoms adults suffer, and about 300,000 children in the United States are affected by the disease. [read more]
Ataxia telangiectasia is a main immunodeficiency disorder that happens in an anticipated occurrence of 1 in 40,000 to 1 in 300,000 births. Other term for this disorder is Louis-Bar syndrome or Boder-Sedgwick syndrome. It is a congenital progressive multi-system ailment. Initially it starts as progressive cerebellar ataxia the followed by conjunctive and cutaneous telangiectasias, immune deficiencies, and recurrent sinopulmonary infections in later stages. There is also a related 100-fold augmented mortality danger. Cerebellar atrophy is most outstanding in the part of vermis as well as augmented neighboring cerebrospinal spaces and prominent folia using MRI. [read more]
Atelectasis is the term used for the medical state in which there is a partial or complete lung collapse. When the lung collapses, air distribution is affected and this is the when the alveoli become deflated (distinct from pulmonary consolidation). Infant respiratory distress syndrome includes a different kind of atelectasis. [read more]
Atelectasis is described as a state in which the lung, in whole or in part, is collapsed or without air. It is a condition where the alveoli are deflated, as distinguished from pulmonary consolidation. Infant respiratory distress syndrome includes another type of atelectasis, and is distinguished and discussed in its own article. [read more]
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia it is a kind of hemolytic anemia where in the immune system of the body that attacks its own red blood cells (RBCs) which leads to the destruction of the red blood cell which is called as hemolysis. On the RBC's surface antibodies and related complement system components become permanent. With anti-globulin test the antibodies can be noticed also referred to as the direct Coombs test. Methyl-dopa and flaurabine drugs can induce AIHA. [read more]
B-cell lymphoma, also known as Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), is a heterogenous group of lymphoproliferative malignancies with varying patterns of behavior and responses to treatment. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a heterogenous group of lymphoproliferative malignancies with varying patterns of behavior and responses to treatment. NHL usually originates in the lymphoid tissues and can spread to other internal organs. However, unlike Hodgkin's disease, NHL is less predictable and has a greater predilection to extranodal sites. [read more]
Bare lymphocyte syndrome is a hereditary immunodeficiency disorder distinguished by T- and B-cell dysfunction and these cells are important in aiding to fight the infection. The group of genes is referred as major histocompatibility compound class II or MHC class II is not articulated. The absence of treatment can cause death in infants because of infection. [read more]
Bare lymphocyte syndrome 2 or the other term for the disease is Defective expression of HLA class 2. BLSII genetic basis is not because of the gene MHC II. The result of the mutations in genes is used as the genetic basis that codes for proteins that usually control the expression if the MHC II genes. [read more]
Benign astrocytoma (or astrocytoma Grade I, astrocytoma Grade II, intracranial neoplasm, intracranial tumor) is categorized into two types: Diffuse (Adults, cerebral hermisphere and brainstem) and circumscribed (Children, characteristic location/morphology). They are benign tumors that occur in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms and severity of the astrocytoma depends on its location and size. [read more]
Berlin breakage syndrome, also known as Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) and Seemanova syndrome, is a rare syndrome that is characterized by chromosomal instability, maybe as a result of a defect in the Double Holliday junction DNA repair mechanism. It is a very rare syndrome characterized mainly by a small head, lowered immunity and heightened risk of cancer. The features of this condition are basically indistinguishable from the Nigmegen Breakage syndrome. The name comes from the Dutch city Nijmegen where the condition was first discovered. Most people with NBS originate from West Slavic regions. The largest number of them is Polish. [read more]
Besnier-Boeck-Schaumann disease, also known as sarcoidosis, is a disease which can affect different organs inside the body. It causes the development of microscopic granulomas on the organs. These are masses resembling little tumors or look like grains of sugar or sand. They are made up of groups of cells from the immune system. These tiny granulomas can increase in size and number and clump together, making many large and small groups of lumps. If numerous granulomas form in an organ, they can affect how the organ functions. This can cause symptoms of Besnier-Boeck-Schaumann disease. [read more]
Primary biliary cirrhosis is a disease in which the bile ducts in the liver are slowly and steadily destroyed. The body has an intricate system of ducts designed specifically to transport bile, which is a fluid produced in the liver. Bile is needed for the proper digestion of fats and helps rid the body of worn-out red blood cells, cholesterol and potentially toxic metals. In primary biliary cirrhosis, the destruction of bile ducts can cause dangerous substances to build up in the liver and sometimes lead to irreversible scarring of liver tissue (or cirrhosis). Many experts consider primary biliary cirrhosis an autoimmune disease in which the body turns against its own cells, although it's possible that genetic and environmental factors also play a part. Primary biliary cirrhosis develops somewhat slowly. Medication can slow the progression of the disease, especially if treatment starts early. [read more]
A blood platelet disorder refers to an abnormally low number of platelets, the particles in blood that help with clotting. As a result, blood does not clot normally for the patient with a low platelet count. [read more]
Body lice, or rickets, are parasitic insects that thrive in the human body and eventually cause typhus. This was once a dreaded disease during World War I. [read more]
Boil (or furuncle) is a skin disease brought about by the inflammation of hair follicles, resulting in the localized accumulation of pus and dead tissue. Individual boils can group together and form an interconnected network of boils called carbuncles. In severe cases, boils may develop to form in what is known as abscesses. [read more]
Bone neoplasm, or bone cancer, is when new abnormal bone tissue grows due to excessive cellular division and proliferation. The bone tissue develops more rapidly than normal and continues to grow even after the stimuli that initiated it stops. This includes tumors or cancer located in bone tissue or specific bones. [read more]
Bourneville's disease (also known as Tuberous sclerosis) is characterized by facial lesions with tuberous sclerosis, first reported as adenoma sebaceum, but now recognised as angiofibromas. It produces tuberous sclerosis occurring in association with adenoma sebaceum. It is syndrome of epilepsy, severe mental retardation associated with adenoma sebaceum (overgrowth of the sebaceous glands) of the face, hamartomatous tumours of the heart and kidney, and cerebral cortical tubers (hence the name "tuberous sclerosis"). It is heredofamilial and usually shows itself early in life. Females are more often affected by this disease than males. Incomplete forms of the syndrome can manifest. Bourneville's disease is transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait with variable expressivity. [read more]
Brain neoplasms are tumors of the intracranial components of the central nervous system, including the cerebral hemispheres, hypothalamus, basal ganglia, thalamus, brain stem, and cerebellum. Brain neoplasms are further divided into primary (originating from brain tissue) and secondary (i.e., metastatic) forms. Primary neoplasms are categorized into benign and malignant forms. Generally, brain tumors may also be classified by age of onset, histologic type, or presenting location in the brain. [read more]
Bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (or BOOP) is the inflammation of the bronchioles and surrounding tissue in the lungs. BOOP is often the result of a pre-existing chronic inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis. BOOP can also be a side effect of certain medicinal drugs, such as amiodarone. In cases where no cause is detected, the disease is called cryptogenic organizing pneumonia. The clinical characteristics and radiological imaging resemble infectious pneumonia. However, diagnosis is suspected after there is no response to multiple antibiotics, and blood and sputum cultures are found to be negative for organisms. [read more]
Brucellosis, also known as undulant fever, undulating fever, or Malta fever, is a zoonosis (infectious disease transmitted from animals to humans) caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. It is generally a disease of domestic animals (goats, pigs, cattle, dogs, etc) and humans and has a worldwide distribution, mostly now in developing countries. [read more]
Bruton agammaglobulinemia was the first immunodeficiency disease to be described. Colonel Ogden Bruton noted in 1952 the absence of immunoglobulins in a young male with a history of pneumonias and other bacterial sinopulmonary infections. Bruton was also the first physician to furnish specific immunotherapy for this X-linked disorder by administering intramuscular injections of immunoglobulin G (IgG). The patient improved but died of chronic pulmonary disease in his fourth decade of life. This disorder is now formally known as X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA), and the gene defect has been mapped to the gene that codes for Bruton tyrosine kinase (Btk) at band Xq21.3. The BTK gene is big and consists of 19 exons that encode the 659 amino acids that form the Btk cytosolic tyrosine kinase. Mutations can happen in any area of the gene. Btk is needed for the proliferation and differentiation of B lymphocytes. In the absence of working Btk, mature B cells that express surface immunoglobulin and the marker CD19 are few to absent. The lack of CD19 is readily detected with fluorocytometric assays, and this finding usually easily confirms the diagnosis of XLA in a male. As Bruton originally described, XLA shows itself as pneumonias and other bacterial sinopulmonary infections in 80% of cases. Such infections that start in male infants as maternal IgG antibodies, acquired transplacentally, are lost. Thus, XLA is most often diagnosed when unusually severe or recurrent sinopulmonary infections occur in a male infant younger than 1 year. [read more]
Burkitt's lymphoma is categorized as a highly uncommon type of a Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). This medical condition commonly affects children than in adults and is known to be a very aggressive kind of B-cell lymphoma that typically involves body parts other than the lymph nodes. However, in spite of its rapid-growing nature, Burkitt's lymphoma is usually very curable with the availability of modern intensive therapies. [read more]
Cancer is a group of diseases in which cells are hostile, invasive, and sometimes metastatic. These three are considered malignant properties of cancers that differentiate them from benign tumors. Although some benign tumor types are capable of being malignant, they are usually self-limited in their growth and don't invade or metastasize. People from all ages, even fetuses, may be affected with cancer but age is a factor that can raise the risks for more common varieties. About 13% of all deaths are caused by cancer and according to the American Cancer Society, 7.6 million people died from cancer in 2007 across the world. Even plants and animals may be affected by cancer. Abnormalities in the genetic material of the transformed cells practically cause all cancers. Carcinogens such as tobacco smoke, chemicals, radiation or infectious agents may have caused said abnormalities. Some however, may be randomly acquired through errors in DNA replication or inherited. DNA methylation and microRNAs are new aspect of the genetics of cancer pathogenesis that are gaining importance. The tissues from which the cancerous cells originate are used as bases in classifying cancer. There are also two general classes of genes affected by cancer anmely the oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. [read more]
Canker Sores are small, superficial and painful lesions, which usually develop on the soft tissues of the mouth (under the tongue, inside cheeks or lips, and at the base of the gums). Canker sores are presented as either round or oval with a white border and white or yellow center. [read more]
Castleman's disease is considered an uncommon illness affecting the lymph nodes and the body's immune-cell structures. The disease is categorized as lymphoproliferative disorder; meaning it involves overgrowth or proliferation of the lymphatic cells. While it's similar to lymphatic system cancers in many ways, Castleman's disease is non-cancerous. It has two types: Unicentric that involves one site of tissue growths, and Multicentric involving multiple sites of growths. [read more]
Cat-scratch disease is a communicable disease transmitted through the bacteria in a cat's saliva. The disease can be caught from a cat's bite or scratch, and may be passed on from cat to human. The disease isn't severe in healthy people, but it may be a problem for those who have a weak immune system. [read more]
Ceramidase deficiency, also known as Farber's Disease, is a group of genetically predisposed metabolic diseases named lipid storage diseases. The diseases characterize a condition wherein excessive amounts of lipids, such as fatty acids, oils, and other related substances, accumulate to harmful levels in the central nervous system, tissues, and joints. This may also affect the liver, heart, and kidneys. Ceramidase deficiency occurs in children when both parents have the protein-regulating gene sphingomyelin. Their children have a 25% chance of acquiring the disease, and a 50% chance of bearing the gene. [read more]
Chancroid is a kind of sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria. This STD is common in hot, tropical countries, and is characterized by open, painful sores in the genital area. When left untreated chancroid may give way to ulcers that may persist in the affected area for up to several months. [read more]
Chlamydia trachomatis is a bacterial specie under the genus Chlamydia. Unlike the two other species, Chlamydia trachomatis cannot be detected by using the Gram stain. It is the first kind of Chlamydia found in humans, and was discovered in 1907. C. trachomatis is made up of a pair of human biovars, trachoma and lymphogranuloma venereum. [read more]
Cholesteryl ester storage disease is a rare medical condition resulting from the accumulation of cholesteryl esters and triglycerides in the blood, lymph and lymphoid tissue. It is a kind of acid lipase deficiency, similar to the Wolman disease. Children affected with this disorder have an enlarged liver which leads to cirrhosis and eventual chronic liver failure. They may as well have calcium deposits in their adrenal glands which may create jaundice. There is no current cure for the cholesteryl ester storage disease. [read more]
Choriorentinitis is an inflammatory illness involving the eye's retinal vessels. It is caused by bacterial, viral, or protozoan infections. When not treated, choriorentinitis may completely damage the retina and cause poor visions for the person with the said disease. [read more]
Chromomycosis, also known as chromoblastomycosis, is a fungal infection common in places of tropical climate. It can be caused by different types of fungi that thrive under the skin and spreads slowly and becomes difficult to treat. [read more]
Chronic Berylliosis is the inflammation of the lungs due to inhaling fumes or dust contaning the element beryllium. This metal can be found in coal, soil and volcanic dust and is used in manufacturing and aerospace industries. This disease may appear even after 20 years after exposure to the said element. [read more]
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex disorder where in one suffers from recurring fatigue which cannot be improved by rest and can be aggravated by mental or physical activity. People suffering from CFS do not engage in lots of activities because they easily get tired. CFS can last for years and there are no specific tests available to diagnose this disorder. [read more]
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of leukemia which attacks a particular lymphocyte called the B cell, which can be found in the bone marrow, whose task is to fight infections. A person with CLL has a damaged B cell, thus it cannot fight infections and rather eats up other blood cells that are able to fight infection. [read more]
Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that results when the body's immune system inappropriately attacks the thyroid gland. This causes damage to your thyroid cells and upsets the balance of chemical reactions in the body. The condition is also known as hashimoto's disease [read more]
Chylous ascites is an uncommon disorder that involves the drainage blockage of the abdominal lymph glands, resulting in the accumulation of milky chyle in the abdominal cavity. [read more]
Cogan syndrome is defined as a rheumatic disease that may lead to hearing loss, dizziness, and vision difficulty. The syndrome can also be linked to blood-vessel swelling in other parts of the body; this may cause damage of major organs and even death. [read more]
Colorectal cancer is the medical term for both colon cancer and rectal cancer. The former is cancer of the colon, while the latter is cancer of the colon's last 6 inches. [read more]
Copper transport disease is a hereditary disorder involving copper metabolism, passed on as X-linked trait. Copper builds up at unusually low levels in the brain and liver, but higher level than normal in the intestinal lining and kidney. [read more]
The rare medical condition called Crow-Fukase syndrome is also called POEMS syndrome after the clinical features that distinguish it from other diseases ? Polyneuropathy (peripheral nerve damage), Organomegaly (abnormal enlargement of organs), Endocrinopathy (damage to hormone-producing glands)/Edema, M-protein (an abnormal antibody) and Skin abnormalities (including hyperpigmentation and hypertrichosis). [read more]
The precipitation of the proteins called cryoglobulins in low temperature can cause serious health problems for some people. The condition is called cryoglobulinemia and it occurs when there are huge deposits of cryoglobuline in the blood, damaging organs and causing illness. It could be linked to multiple myeloma, liver disease, lymphoma, and infection. More women are afflicted with the disease. [read more]
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is considered an extremely rare disease, and is usually occurs in people between the ages 40-60, primarily affecting the skin. This medical condition is caused by the uncontrollable development of within blood cells on the skin, which is known as T-cells. Among the most common types cutaneous T-cell lymphoma are Sezary syndrome and mycosis fungoides. [read more]
Cystic Hygroma is a fluid filled sac that came about from an obstruction in the lymphatic system. It can either be single or multiple cysts found in the neck area. Cystic Hygroma can be congenital or it could develop at any time in a person's life. [read more]
Cytomegalic inclusion disease is an infection or condition resulting from a form of herpes virus called ?cytomegalovirus'. This virus leads to cell enlargement of a number of organs, as well as the growth of ?inclusion bodies' in the nucleus or cytoplasm of the cells. A trademark of this infection is the episodic recurrence of symptoms all through life, due to its virus cycles of latency periods and active virus. [read more]
Dermatomyosis is a disease of the connective tissues associated with muscles and skin inflammation. Juvenile dermatomyositis affects young children often associated with pink patches in the knuckles, abnormal and painful erection of the penis that can last for a long period of time, and groton's papules. It is one type of autoimmune disease of the connective tissue which is related to polymyositis characterized by many inflammations of the muscles, and the related disease that attacks the arm and leg muscles called Sporadic Inclusion Body Myositis. [read more]
Also known as DSRCT, it is a very aggressive tumor that occurs rarely, a type of cancer that always grows in the abdomen and spreads locally to the lymph nodes. It can also spread to other parts of the body like the lungs, bones, and liver, chest walls, spinal cord, large and small intestine, skull, bladder, brain, ovaries, pelvis and testicles. This is most common in males especially in the young adolescent stage. This is a life threatening disease. This tumor is also called desmoplastic small round blue cell tumor, desmoplastic cancer, intraabdominal desmoplastic small round blue cell tumor or desmoplastic sarcoma. [read more]
Angiopathy refers to any disease associated with the blood vessels or the lymph vessels. When angiopathy is caused by diabetes, it is called diabetic angiopathy. Similar to most complications brought about by diabetes, diabetic angiopathy is primarily due to hyperglycemia or the high levels of blood sugar known to us as glucose. This disease can occur in any part of the body where the effect of high glucose level resulted to clogged up due to build up of plaque in the inner walls of the vessels. There are two types of this disease, macroangiopathy or microangiopathy. [read more]
DiGeorge Syndrome also known as 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, Velocardiofacial Syndrome and Strong Syndrome is a disorder known by total or partial absence or defective chromosome 22. [read more]
Diptheria is a communicable disease of upper respiratory tract it is caused by an anaerobic Gram- positive bacterium called Corynebacterium diphtheriae. it is spread through direct contact. Vaccine of this bacteria is recommended for children after four weeks of birth, it has 3 dosage with 3 weeks interva. It also recommended to travellers. Incubation period of Diphtheria is from 2 to 5 days. [read more]
Dry socket is a form of dental condition that usually occurs when the site of the tooth extraction has dislodged the blood clot, thereby exposing the nerves and bones. This causes a more intensified pain. This dental complication is quite common after tooth extraction. [read more]
Simply known as swelling, edema is the enlargement or organs, skin, or other body parts. The most common parts where swelling is observed are the hands, feet, ankles, and legs. [read more]
Ehrlichiosis was first discovered towards the end of the 19th century, which is a disease that is transmitted by ticks, otherwise known as tick-borne diseases. Among the very first victims identified were from Japan that was characterized by swollen lymph nodes and fever. In the South Central and Southeastern regions of United states, the lone s tar tick, known as Amblyomma americanum has been identified as the primary culprit of this medical condition. [read more]
Elephantiasis is a medical condition characterized by some gross enlargement of a certain area of the body, mostly affecting the limbs as well as the external genitalia. Elephantiasis is primarily caused by an obstruction of the patient's lymphatic system, which often results in the buildup of fluid known as lymph in the particular affected areas. As part of the immune system, the lymphatic system is designed to effectively protect the body against diseases and infections. This system consists of an intricate network of vessels, hence the obstruction of the tubular channels would naturally cause swelling and enlargement. [read more]
Endocardial fibroelastosis is a rare heart disorder that is characterized by a thickening within the muscular lining of the heart chambers (the endocardium) due to an increase in the amount of supporting connective tissue and elastic fibers. It is considered to be a rather uncommon cause of some unexplained types of heart failure among infants and children. [read more]
Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome or EMS is an incurable neurogical condition. Sometimes this conditon is fatal to some patients. It is flu-like condition that is associated to be triggered by ingestion or consumption of L-tryptophan supplements which are poorly produced. Like the regular eosinophilia, it can cause increase in the eosinophil granulocytes present in the patient's blood. There are new developments though, another explanation for EMS claims that it is brought about by the consumption of large amount of tryptophan. It leads to the production of the metabolites, which can interfere with the normal degradation of histamine. Also too much activity of histamine has been associated and related to blood eosinophilia and myalgia. [read more]
Eosinophilic granuloma is a rare disease often involving proliferation of clones of the langerhans cells, ana some abnormal cells from the bone marrow which are and capable of migrating from the skin to the lymph nodes. In a clinical test, its presentations may range from an isolated bone lesions to a disease involving many parts of the body systems. [read more]
Epidermoid carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma is a form of carcinoma type cancer which may occur in different numerous organs which includes the urinary bladder, skin, mouth, lips, esophagus, prostate, lungs, vagina, and also the cervix. It is often a malignant tumor of the squamous epithelium or the epithelium that presents squamous cell differentiation. [read more]
Epstein barr virus mononucleosis is also known as infectious mononucleosis. It is also known by other terms like the kissing disease or the Pfeiffer's disease. It is also most commonly called as glandular fever. This condition occurs most frequently in young adolescents and at times to young adults. Infectious Mononucleosis or kissing fever entails only very mild illness in small children, and usually asymptomatic. [read more]
Erdheim-Chester disease is also known as polyostotic sclerosing histiocytosis or the Erdheim-Chester syndrome. This condition is a relatively rare form of non-Langerhans-cell histiocytosis. Usually, this condition affects people at their in middle age years. It usually involves infiltration of lipid-laden macrophages, giant cells which are multinucleated, an infiltrate of lymphocytes which are usually swelling, and histiocytes located in the bone marrow, and sclerosis of the long bones. [read more]
Erysipelas also known as Saint Anthony's Fire, is a streptococcus bacterial infection of the skin that results inflammation. It occurs on any part of the body, including the face, arms, fingers, legs and toes. [read more]
Erythroderma It is also known as erythrodermatitis, generalized exfoliative dermatitis, and also called as red man syndrome. It is refer to as a generalized skin disorder that is caused by different types of skin diseases like psoriasis, and some skin allergies. [read more]
Swimmer's ear or external otitis is an infection of the outer ear and ear canal. This happens when the ear is exposed to excess moisture and water is trapped in the ear canal. The acidity that normally prevents infection is diluted because the skin becomes soggy. Cuts along the lining of the ear can also cause bacteria to penetrate the skin. [read more]
Farber's disease is also referred to as Farber's lipogranulomatosis or ceramidase deficiency it illustrates a group of unusual autosomal recessive disorders that results from the build up of lipids in the joints, central nervous system and tissues. [read more]
Female Pseudo-Turner Syndrome, also known as Noonan syndrome, is a rare hereditary disorder that is usually detected once the patient is born. [read more]
Fever blisters or cold sores are the small and usually painful bumps or lesions on the skin of the lips, mouth, gum, or the lip area. These blisters occur when a person has Herpes labialis, an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. [read more]
Filariasis (Philariasis) is a type of an infectious and parasitic disease that is generallycaused by 3 thread-like parasitic filarial worms known as nematode worms, Brugia malayi, Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia timori, all of which can be transmitted by mosquitoes [read more]
Filovirus is a group of viruses that generate hemorrhagic fever. Among the popular kinds of filovirus is the Ebola Marburg disease. It first had an outbreak in Zaire and Sudan in 1984. [read more]
Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a certain type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) which is most common among the group (about one in four reported cases). It is a lymphoma (or cancer) of the B-lymphocytes. Average age of patients are in their sixty's but it can occur at anytime in one's adult life. It is both commonly equal in women and men. [read more]
Gallbladder cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the gallbladder in particular and the biliary tract in general. The gallbladder, along with the bile duct, is responsible for transporting bile. Cancerous gallbladder tumors are called adenocarcinomas, which commonly develop in the inner surface of the gallbladder. These adenocarcinomas are extremely invasive, rapidly penetrating deep into the gallbladder and spreading from the inner surface to the outer surface of the gallbladder. If untreated, the cancer can spread to lymph nodes or travel through the bloodstream and invade other parts of the body. [read more]
Gastric cancer pertains to cancer of the stomach. Adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, carcinoid tumors, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common types of gastric cancer. [read more]
Primary gastric lymphoma is a rare condition whereby a lymphoma originates from the stomach. This condition accounts for less than 15% of gastric conditions, and only 2% of all lymphomas. However, because of the fact that the stomach is an extremely usual site for lymphomas that originate in other organs that are in metastasis to the stomach, the stomach is one of the most likely sources of the growth of lymphomas in other areas in the gastrointestinal tract. With metastasis, the organ from where the lymphoma originates is not adjacent to the stomach, but nonetheless the disease is spread by travel in the bloodstream (lymphoma is a cancer originating from a type of white blood cells or lymphocytes). [read more]
Gastrointestinal basidiobolomycosis is a rare disease caused by fungi. It is characterized by a painless lump underneath the stomach lining, which eventually causes abdominal pain and swelling. It can also cause the development of elephantiasis. The lump that grew on the abdomen may block the lymph nodes causing problems in the bloodstream. The inflammation can be treated by surgical removal of the lump as well as ketoconazole to reduce swelling. [read more]
Gaucher disease was first described in 1882 by Philippe Gaucher. Today, this is the most common lysosomal storage diseases, resulting in deficiency in glucocerebrosidase. As a result, fatty material settles in the liver, lung, spleen, brain, bone marrow, and kidneys. Type I which occurs in 1 out of 50,000 live births is most common among Ashkenazi Jews and usually manifest early in life or in adulthood. Type II Gaucher disease occurs in 1 out of 100,000 live births manifests after 6 months of age. Type III manifests in 1 out of 100,000 people as well, and occurs at any point in a person's life. [read more]
First described in 1882 by French physician Philippe Gaucher, Gaucher disease is one of today's most common lysosomal storage diseases. As a result of the lack of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase, fatty materials accumulate in the brain, bone marrow, liver, lung, spleen and the kidneys. This disease is characterized by autosomal recessive inheritance, and as such, is equally likely to affect both male and female individuals. [read more]
German measles, commonly known as rubella, is a disease caused by Rubella virus. [read more]
It is medically known as Rubella. German measles is not the same as measles. German measles is not the same with measles because they are caused by different viruses. It is not contagious nor it is severe that is why it is also called the three-day measles. [read more]
Giant lymph node hyperplasia (also known as Castleman's disease or CD) is a rare, benign disease involving lymph nodes in different locations, predominantly in the mediastinum. This disorder is marked by non-cancerous growths (tumors) that may develop in the lymph node tissue at a single site or throughout the body. It involves hyperproliferation of certain B cells that typically produce cytokines. [read more]
Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis, is a disease that thrives in the saliva. When not treated, it can cause serious damages to the blood, liver and spleen. [read more]
Gliosarcoma is a malignant cancer and a glioblastoma consisting of gliomatous and sarcomatous components. Most gliomas do not show metastases outside the cerebrum however gliosarcoma being a rare type of glioma, have propensity to do so and are most commonly spreading through the blood to the lungs and liver including the lymph nodes (Beumont et. al. (2007). "Gliosarcoma with multiple extracranial metastases: case report and review of the literature". J. Neurooncology 83: 39-46). [read more]
Turner type Gonodal Dysgenesis, otherwise known as Turner Syndrome or Ullrich syndrome, is a condition wherein the monosomy of X chromosome is the most ommon, making the female sexual characteristics though present are generally underdeveloped. It is said to occur in about one out of every 2500 female birth (National Institutes of Health (2004). Clinical Features of Turner syndrome). [read more]
Gorham's disease, also known as Massive Osteolysis, is a rare congenital bone disorder characterized by the spread of vascular channels that are destructive to the bone matrix. Osteolysis, or vanishing of the bones, occurs as well as angiomatosis. [read more]
Griscelli Disease, GS for brevity is an autosomal recessive disorder that results in the pigmentary dilution of the skin and the hair, the accumulation of the melanosome in melanocytes. It involves impairment of the lymphocyte function and the inability to produce normal levels of immunoglobulins (Griscelli C, Prunieras M. Pigment dilution and immunodeficiency: a new syndrome. Int J Dermatol. Dec 1978;17(10):788-91). [read more]
Hairy cell leukemia is a slow-growing cancer characterized by overproduction of B cells in the bone marrow. These B cells, called lymphocytes, are a kind of white blood cell needed to fight infection. The bone marrow is unable to produce other types of normal cells as well, including platelets that heal bleeding, and red blood cells that carry oxygen. Hairy cell leukemia is a rare disease, constituting only 2% of all leukemia cases. [read more]
Hand-Schuller-Christian disease is a condition which lipids accumulate in the body and manifest as histiocytic granuloma in bones, particularly in the skull, the skin and viscera and which is often accompanied by hepatosplenomegaly and lymphadenopathy. [read more]
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease wherein the body's antibodies attack the thyroid cells. It is also known by the name chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. It is also the most common form of hyperthyroidism in the United States. [read more]
Head and neck cancer is a collective term used to describe cancers that form in the aerodigestive area, in organs such as the mouth, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, larynx, pharynx and lip. These cancers can affect the lymph nodes when not treated early. [read more]
Hemangioendothelioma refers to a group of vascular neoplasms that may be either benign or malignant. Around 10% of cases are associated with other syndromes including lymphedema, early onset varicose veins, Mafucci's syndrome, and Klippel-Trenauay-Weber syndrome. There are 3 types of hemangioendotheliomas: retiform, epitheloid, and kaposiform. [read more]
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare disease affecting infants and young childen, but in some cases adolescents. It is characterized by the pathological findings of hemophagocytosis, jaundice, fever, and splenomegaly. HLH is usually associated with Epstein-Barr virus, genetic, malignant, autoimmune diseases, as well as other viruses or fungal infections. [read more]
In medicine, amyloidosis refers to a group of conditions in which amyloid proteins are abnormally deposited in organs and/or tissues, causing disease. A protein is amyloid if, because of an alteration in its secondary structure, it takes on a particular insoluble form, called the beta-pleated sheet. [read more]
Herpes simplex is commonly known as as cold sores. It is a viral infection of the skin that arises once or return again and again. This is because when the virus is cleared from the skin by the immune system it hides in the nerves and is never wholly removed from the body. Herpes infections are very prevalent. Unfortunately those who carry the herpes virus can spread the disease without even knowing it. [read more]
Leading to the development of small and usually painful blisters on the skin of the mouth, lips, gums or lip area, herpes labialis is an infection caused by the herpes simples. The blisters are commonly called fever blisters or cold sores. [read more]
This is an infection by a member of the Herpesviridae family, a family of enveloped, linear, double-stranded DNA viruses; occurs in a wide variety of animals. [read more]
Herpetic whitlow is a painful viral infection occurring on the fingers or around the fingernails which is cause by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is also called digital herpes simplex, hand herpes or finger herpes. These infections are very contagious and are easily spread by direct contact with skin lesions and usually appears as sores or small blisters around the nose, mouth, buttocks, and genitals, though the infections can develop almost anywhere on the skin. [read more]
Eosinophilic granuloma, also known as pulmonary histiocytosis X (PHX) or pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis X (PLCH), is a rare interstitial lung disease that is epidemiologically related to tobacco smoking. It predominantly affects young adults, primarily occurring in the third or fourth decades of life. [read more]
In Hodgkin's disease, cells in the lymphatic system develop abnormally and may spread beyond the lymphatic system. As Hodgkin's disease progresses, it compromises the body's ability to fight different infections. [read more]
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that can result to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a condition in humans in which the immune system begins to fail, leading to life-threatening opportunistic infections. [read more]
HTLV causes T-cell leukaemia and T-cell lymphoma in adults and may also be engaged in certain demyelinating diseases that includes tropical spastic paraparesis. HTLV is described as a human, single-stranded RNA retrovirus. [read more]
Hurthle cell cancer (or HCC) is a relatively rare and extremely aggressive type of cancer that occurs in the thyroid gland, the gland responsible for secreting hormones that are essential in regulating the metabolism. [read more]
Hyper-IgD syndrome is an uncommon inherited disorder wherein an individual has high immunoglobulin D that causes recurring attacks of fever and chills that onsets during the first year of life. The attacks typically last four to six days, which may be accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, skin rash, and joint pain. The frequency and severity of the attacks vary significantly from one case to another. These episodes can be triggered through physiologic stress, for instance minor trauma or vaccination. [read more]
ICF Syndrome is a condition characterized by a weak immune system and anomalies in the face. ICF Syndrome is an inherited condition. The main feature of ICF Syndrome is variable immunodeficiency combined with centrometric instability of chromosome 1, 9, 16 and even 2. ICF syndrome is a rare condition that affects less than 200,000 people in the United States. [read more]
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare but aggressive type of breast cancer that progresses rapidly, making the affected breast red, swollen and tender. It's a locally advanced cancer, which means it has spread from its point of origin to nearby tissue and possibly to nearby lymph nodes. [read more]
Interstitial Lung Disease refers to a cluster of lung disorders. It usually involves certain lung areas like the tissues of the alveoli, basement membrane (structures supporting overlying epithelial and endothelial cells), pulmonary capillary endothelium, perilymphatic and perivascular tissues. The term Interstitial Lung Disease is used to make a distinction of the disease classified as belonging to this group from obstructive airway ailments. Although the majority of diseases in this group include fibrosis in the later stage, the term pulmonary fibrosis is completely disregarded in identifying this disease. [read more]
Intraocular lymphoma is a rare malignant form of eye cancer that is capable of quickly spreading to the brain. [read more]
It was in the year 1966 that the Job syndrome was first described as the hyper-IgE/HIE or hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome which is a very rare immunodeficiency disease. This disorder can be inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. HIE has changing expressivity and is linked with several other abnormalities. The general findings are recurring abscesses of the skin (this is why it is called the Job syndrome, derived from the biblical character Job); high IgE serum levels; pneumonia which comes with pneumatocele development; and dental, facial or skeletal defects. Most cases of this disorder are sporadic but there are cases of multiplex families who display autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant inheritance. Autosomal recessive individuals usually have acute molluscum contagiosm. Also, it is possible for neurological complications to develop because of other viral infections. The patients also lack dental or skeletal involvement and they do not develop cysts of the lungs. A few authorities have the belief that 2 separate syndromes are in existence, not just one. [read more]
Kawasaki Syndrome is a medical condition with unknown cause that results in inflammation of the walls of the blood vessels (vasculitis) and primarily affects young children. [read more]
A scalp condition that occurs in severe cases of scalp ringworm (tinea capitis), appearing as an inflamed, thickened, pus-filled area, and it is sometimes accompanied by a fever is called kerion. Commonly seen in children, the underlying condition, scalp ringworm is a usually harmless fungal infection of the hair and scalp that occurs as scaly spots and patches of broken hair on the head. [read more]
Kikuchi Disease is a rare lymph node disorder causing large and inflamed lymph nodes. It is not cancerous. It is also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis; which was first identified in 1972 by Dr. M.Kikuchi in Japan. [read more]
Infectious mononucleosis (mono), or glandular fever, is usually called the kissing disease. [read more]
Klippel Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome is a medical condition wherein blood vessels and lymph vessels fail to form as it should be. It is characterized by benign skin growths comprised of blood vessels, numerous lymph tissues, and varicose veins. [read more]
A Krukenberg tumor is a secondary ovarian abnormality in which an ovarian tumor grows in the gastrointestinal tract. These tumors are characterized by the presence of mucin-secreting signet-ring cells in the ovarian tissues. [read more]
Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a medical condition characterized with the increased production of Langerhans cell. Langerhans cell are abnormal cells originating from the bone marrow and have the capability to drift from the skin to the lymph nodes. Langerhans cell histiocytosis was formerly referred to as histiocytosis X. The Histiocyte society renamed the disease in 1985. [read more]
Lemierre's syndrome is a rare bacterial disease that usually targets young adults. It brings about an inflammation of the internal jugular vein. A blood clot also develops in the said area during the onset of the disease. It was first described by Andre Lemierre in 1936, and the disease has produced about 160 cases for the past 100 years. [read more]
The Letterer-Siwe disease is a rare condition where histiocytes spread all over the body. This disease commonlt affects children below two-years of age. [read more]
Leukemia, B-Cell, chronic, is a cancer of the white blood cells. It attacks a particular lymphocyte called B cell and thrives on the lymph nodes. When the B cell is damaged, it can no longer fight infections and kills other healthy blood cells in the process. [read more]
Chronic T-Cell Leukemia, also referred to as T-cell-prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL), is a post-thymic T-cell malignancy primarily inflicting adults aged 30 and above. This is a severe form of T-cell leukemia with aggressive behavior, predilection for blood, bone marrow, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and skin involvement. Chronic T-Cell Leukemia is a rare disease with distinct clinical features following an aggressive clinical course. Within the post-thymic T-cell dysfunctions that develop as a result of leukemia, T-PLL is seen in about a third of documented cases. [read more]
Loiasis is a disease infecting the eyes and skin. It is caused by the loa lola filaria or nematode worm and is transmitted through horsefly bites. The disease results to red swellings which become itchy after a while. [read more]
Louis-Bar syndrome, also referred to as Ataxia-telangiectasia (AT) or Boder-Sedgwick syndrome, is an immunodeficiency disorder associated with a defect in T-cells. It occurs in approximately 1 in 40,000 to 1 in 300,000 births. [read more]
LSA or lichen sclerosus et atrophicus is a disease with no known pathogenesis that severely impacts the afflicted patient's quality of life. Approximately 14 individuals per 100,000 people are affected by LSA per year. Females have a predilection for the disease. Fifteen percent of cases involved patients 10 to 30 years old. [read more]
Lymphadenitis is the inflammation of a lymph node in the body. It is often a complication of a bacterial infection of a wound, although it can also be brought about by viruses or other disease agents. [read more]
Lymphadenopathy is a term meaning "disease of the lymph nodes." Almost synonymously are used with "swollen/enlarged lymph nodes". When the infection of the lymph nodes themselves, it is called lymphadenitis, but when the infection is of the lymph channels, it is called lymphangitis. [read more]
Lymphangiectasia is an intestinal disease commonly afflicting dogs, but also affecting humans in rare cases. Distinct characteristic of lymphangiectasia include chronic diarrhea and loss of proteins such as globulin and serum albumin. [read more]
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis, LMA for brevity, is a rare lung disorder in which abnormal smooth muscle cells grow rapidly in lung and lymph tissue [read more]
Lymphangiomas are a rare type of angioma or benign tumors that typically appear at birth or early in childhood. [read more]
Lymphatic filariasis is a parasitic and infectious tropical disease. It is endemic in tropical areas of the world, where it was said that up to 54% of the population have microfilariae in their blood (Aupali T, Ismid IS, Wibowo H, et al. (2006). "Estimation of the prevalence of lymphatic filariasis by a pool screen PCR assay using blood spots collected on filter paper". Tran R Soc Trop Med Hyg 100 (8): 753?9). [read more]
Lymphedema otherwise known as lymphatic obstruction is a condition where there is retention of localized fluid caused by an unhealthy lymphatic system. Its primary danger to a person is the constant risk of developing an uncontrolled infection in the affected limb. [read more]
Lymphedema choriomeningitis - or, more accurately, lymphocytic choriomeningitis - pertains to an infectious disease caused by a rodent-borne virus. Alternative names for this disorder are: lymphocytic meningoencephalitis, benign lymphocytic meningitis, la Maladie d'Armstrong, or serous lymphocytic meningitis. [read more]
Lymphedema distichiasis an inherited disorder in which an individual has extra eyelashes or a "double row of eye lashes," and swelling of arms and legs. [read more]
Lymphoblastic lymphoma is a rare medical condition that is considered as an uncommon form of aggressive Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma or NHL. [read more]
Lymphocytic colitis a rare condition characterized by chronic non-bloody watery diarrhea. It is a subtype of miscroscopic colitis. [read more]
It is also referred to as lymphopathia venereal which is a tropical bubo, climatic bubo, strumous bubo, poradenitis inguinales, Durand-Nicolas-Favre disease and lymphogranuloma inguinale and it is also a sexually transmitted disease. [read more]
Lymphogranuloma venereum (or LGV) is a sexually transmitted disease primarily affecting the lymphatics and caused by certain invasive strains of Chlamydia trachomatis. This disease is also known by many other names, including: climatic bubo, tropical bubo, strumous bubo, poradenitis inguinales, lymphopathia venerea, Durand-Nicolas-Favre disease, and lymphogranuloma inguinale. [read more]
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), which is an uncommon sexually transmitted disease and is characterized by its spreading though having unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex is caused by certain types of the bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. This disease causes swollen and painful lymph nodes, which can then break into large ulcers. As it develops, lymphogranuloma venereum goes through 3 distinct stages where the first 2 stages may be minor and you might not even be aware of any symptoms until you reach stage 3, called genitoanorectal syndrome. [read more]
Lymphomas are part of the broad group of diseases called hematological neoplasms. It is a type of cancer that originates in a type of white blood cell in the vertebrate immune system that is commonly known as the lymphocytes. [read more]
Large cell lymphoma is a type of lymphoma in which one or more types of malignant large lymphocytes are formed. Such large lymphocytes are large cleaved or noncleaved follicular center cells with a diffuse pattern. [read more]
Large cell, immunoblastic lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is highly malignant. It is characterized by large lymphoblasts that have a diffuse pattern of infiltration. [read more]
Diffuse small cleaved cell lymphoma is a follicular center cell lymphoma without a follicular pattern. The malignancy of this type of lymphoma is of intermediate grade. [read more]
Follicular lymphoma of small-cleaved-cell is a type of lymphoma, which is immunologically homogeneous: Ig+ B1+ B2+ CALLA+ Ia+. [read more]
Lymphomas are cancers that affect the lymph nodes. They destroy the lymph vessels that filter out the bacteria from entering the body organs. Childhood lymphomas meanwhile show abnormalities in the lymph system in which the white blood cells rapidly multiply and cause ruptures in the lymph nodes. There are two kinds of childhood lymphomas: Hodgkin's disease and Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Both lymphomas can be very fatal. [read more]
It is a an angiocentric and angiodestructive lymphoreticular proliferative disorder which commonly affects the lungs, skin and the central nervous system. [read more]
Lymphosarcoma is a type of lymphoma that is also commonly known as Non-Hodgkins lymphoma (Neighbors,M. and Tannehill-Jones,R. 2000 Human Diseases, pp.115-115). It is a malignant lympohoma in which neoplastic cells diffusely infiltrate the entire lymph node without any pattern. [read more]
By definition, this disease was named named after the French physician Prosper M?ni?re, who was the first to make a report in an 1861 article that vertigo was caused by inner ear. Today, M?ni?re's disease is recognized as a disorder of the inner ear that can affect both hearing and balance [read more]
Macroglobulinemia otherwise known as Waldenstr?m Macroglobulinemia, is a cancer involving lymphocytes. It is characterized by increased levels of macroglobulins in the circulating blood and diffuse of infiltration of bone marrow and produces symptoms of hyperviscosity. [read more]
It is a rare inflammatory condition manifested by a papule, plaque or ulceration that affects the genitourinary tract. It is described by the presence of histiocytes with basophilic inclusions called Michaelis-Gutmann bodies. [read more]
Breast cancer is not just a woman's disease. Men also have breast tissue that could undergo cancerous changes. While women are about 100 times more likely to get breast cancer, any man can still develop breast cancer. Male breast cancer is common between the ages of 60 and 70. [read more]
Mantle cell lymphoma is one of the rarer types of the non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. The lymphoma can spread to other parts of the body including the liver, bone marrow or spleen. This occurrence is prevalent to males rather than females, with the ratio of 4:1. [read more]
Marek's disease is an extremely contagious viral neoplastic disease in chickens that is characterized especially by proliferation of lymphoid cells and is caused by a herpes virus having several serotypes. It usually affects both commercial and backyard poultry that often results to severe production loss or death. Marek's disease causes multiple nerve changes and aids in the development of tumors in major internal organs. [read more]
Melanomas are tumors of melanocytes that are malignant and found basically on the skin but can also appear elsewhere in the body. While it is rarer compared to other skin cancers, it however causes the majority of deaths related to cancer; more frequent among Caucasian males, the WHO reports that over 48,000 deaths from melanoma occur globally every year. [read more]
Merkel cell cancer is a rare form of cancer characterized by a bluish-red or flesh-colored nodule on the skin, particularly on the face, head, or neck of affected patients. It is also known as neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin, and typically occurs in the elderly. [read more]
Mesenteric lymphadenitis is a condition whereby there is an unusual inflammation of the lymph nodes usually seen and located at the fold of the membranes which usually is responsible for attaching the colon and other like organs to the abdominal wall. [read more]
Metastatic cancer is a term used in reference to cancer that has spread from its origin to other organs or parts of the body. Only malignant or cancerous cells have the capacity to metastasize. [read more]
Microscopic colitis refers to the colon's inflammatory conditions called collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis that are usually manifested through chronic watery diarrhea. The inflammation may occur in patches along the colon's lining in some people while in others, it manifests along the colon's entire length. [read more]
Mikulicz syndrome is a condition in which the parotid, lacrimal or salivary glands are enlarged. [read more]
Minimal change disease is a kidney disease that is common among children. It is also known as lipoid nephrosis and nil disease. [read more]
A disease also known as Sharp syndrome, mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a term used by some experts to describe a collection of symptoms similar to those of systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, polymyositis, and dermatomyositis. MCTD is a serious autoimmune disease in which the body's defense system attacks itself. [read more]
Monkeypox is a rare infectious disease caused by monkeypox virus. The disease is first identified in laboratory monkeys, giving it its name. The disease is more prevalent in Central and West Africa, but an outbreak occurred also in the United States in 2003. Monkeypox can be difficult to distinguish from mild smallpox and chickenpox. [read more]
Infectious mononucleosis (mono), or glandular fever, is often called the kissing disease. The virus that causes this disease is transmitted by saliva, so kissing can spread the virus, but so can coughing, sneezing, or sharing a glass or food utensil. The name comes because the number of mononuclear leukocytes (white blood cells with a one-lobed nucleus) rises importantly. [read more]
Mouth ulcer is a condition characterized by the appearance of an open sore inside the oral cavity. It is also alternatively known as oral ulcer. [read more]
Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome otherwise known as the Kawasaki disease is a medical condition where there is an inflammation of the walls of the arteries throughout the body which may include the coronary arteries affecting the lymph nodes, skin and mucous membrane inside the throa, nose and mouth of the person. [read more]
Mumps or epidemic parotitis is a human viral disease. "Mumps" originally meant "to mumble", and came to be useful to the disease due to the side effects it causes. Mumps was a common childhood disease worldwide prior to the development of vaccination and the introduction of a vaccine. It remains to be a significant health threat in third world countries. [read more]
Mycetoma, also referred to as Madura Foot, is a highly relevant disease commonly encountered in arid and semi-arid regions all over the world. This condition can be found in Mexico, the Sahel, in pan-Arabia, Brazil and in the semi-arid areas within India. Mycetoma can also exist in countries as distant as Romania. Mycetoma consists of two common forms. These are the bacterial mycetoma which is also referred to as actinomycetoma and the fungal mycetoma or also known as eumycetoma. These two common presentations of this condition are very hard to determine and differentiate from each another even under the electron microscopy. [read more]
Mycosis Fungoides is also referred to as Alibert-Bazin Syndrome or granuloma fungoides. It is the most common presentation of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma wherein the skin is the primary part of the body that is affected. As the disease progresses, it can also affect the internal organs and the blood. This condition was initially described in 1806 by a French dermatologist named, Jean-Louis-Marc Alibert. Mycosis fungoides caused several misconceptions because it stands for a fungal disease characterized by a mushroom-like presentation. It was named as such by Alibert based upon his description of the disease's severe case which appears similarly to a mushroom. However, it is far from a fungal disease or infection. It is actually a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. [read more]
Mycosis Fungoides Lymphoma is classified as the most common presentation of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. In general, the skin is the primary part of the body that is affected. However, it can advance internally as the disease progresses. Initially described in 1806 by a French dermatologist named, Jean-Louis-Marc Alibert, mycosis fungoides lymphoma caused some misconceptions. It stands for a fungal disease characterized by a mushroom-like presentation. It was named as such by Alibert based upon his description of the disease's severe case which appears similarly to a mushroom. However, it is far from a fungal disease or infection. It is actually a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. [read more]
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is cancer originating in the nasal part of the pharynx, which is the topmost region of the throat; the area where the nasal passes and the auditory tubes join the remaining portions of the upper respiratory tract. [read more]
Neck cancer (or, more appropriately, head and neck cancer) pertains to a group of biologically related carcinomas that originate from the upper aerodigestive tract, including: the cavity (mouth), lip, paranasal sinuses, oral nasal cavity, larynx, and pharynx. In most cases, head and neck cancers originate from the epithelium or mucosal lining of the squamous cell regions. [read more]
Neurasthenia is a medical condition also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It is characterized by a combination of fatigue, headache, anxiety, headache, neuralgia or painful disorders of the nerve, depression or any turndown in the mood and impotence (the inability to develop erection of the penis). The term ?Neurasthenia? was first used in 1869 by George Miller Beard. [read more]
Nicholas-favre disease, also known as lymphogranuloma venereum, is a sexually transmitted disease characterized by genital ulcers. It can affect the lymph nodes and cause serious problems in the bloodstream. [read more]
Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome or NBS is also referred to as Berlin Breakage Syndrome and Seemanova Syndrome. This condition is a rare form of disease syndrome. It is mainly characterized by chromosomal instability. Probable reason could be as a result of an abnormality or clinical defect in the Double Holliday junction DNA repair mechanism. Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome is usually manifested by several distinctive characteristics. Major clinical presentation includes microcephaly, distinct appearance and expression of the face, shortness in stature, immunodeficiency and sensitivity to radiation. Patients who are diagnosed with NBS are found to have an increased risk of having lymphoid malignancy. The name, Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome, was derived from the Dutch city, Nijmegen which was where the first description of this disease had been established. Majority of the people afflicted with NBS have origins from the West Slavic. A significant percentage live in Poland. [read more]
Nocardiosis is an infectious disease which affects the lungs or the whole body. Affectation of the lungs is termed as Pulmonary Nocardiosis while affectation of the entire body is referred to as Systemic Nocardiosis. Nocardiosis is caused primarily of an infection by bacterium of the genus Nocardia. The common forms are Nocardia asteroides and Nocardia brasiliensis. Men are more commonly affected particularly those whose immune systems are already compromised. Among patients afflicted with brain infection, rate of mortality goes beyond 80%. Among the other forms, mortality rate is at 50% even with therapy. [read more]
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma or NHL is characterized by a certain group of cancers which arise from lymphocytes. NHL has distinctive clinical presentation from Hodgkin Lymphoma based on its pathology and epidemiology. It is also different from Hodgkin Lymphoma based on the commonly involved sites, clinical behavior and medical treatment. Diseases associated with non-Hodgkin Lymphomas presents diversity. The course of the diseases varies as well as the treatments. Prognoses for recovery among patients are also variable. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma usually develops in the spleen, lymph nodes and tonsils or in other organs which are related to the lymphatic system. Majority of the cases initially present as infiltration of lymph nodes. However, there are some subtypes which are restricted to other organs of the lymphatic system. [read more]
Omenn syndrome is a severe combined immunodeficiency associated with mutations in the recombination activating genes, affecting both B-cells and T-cells. [read more]
Oral cancer is any cancerous tissue growth located in the mouth. It could arise as a primary lesion originating in any of the oral tissues, by metastasis from a distant site of origin, or by extension from a neighboring anatomic structure, such as the nasal cavity or the maxillary sinus. [read more]
Orchitis is the medical inflammation where there is the inflammation of one or both testicles. It is usually connected to mumps. [read more]
Orf pertains to an exanthemous zoonotic disease caused by a viral skin virus, which primarily affects sheep and goats, but may also be transmitted to humans. The word ?orf? itself is derived from an Old English term that means ?rough?. It is also alternatively known as pustular dermatitis (CPD), contagious ecthyma, thistle disease, sore mouth, or scabby mouth. [read more]
An infection of the outer ear and ear canal resulting from the growth of bacteria and fungi which may come from contaminated water or from objects placed in the ear. It is also known as ?swimmer's ear? or external otitis. [read more]
Oxyphil cell carcinoma, more commonly known as Hurthle cell cancer (HCC) is a rare form of cancer affecting the thyroid gland. [read more]
Pancreatic Islet Cell Neoplasms develop into two different categories: the nonfunctional and functional varieties. However, most cases of this medical condition are found functional, which means the neoplasms secrete hormonal products into the patient's bloodstream, leading to the development of more recognizable symptoms. [read more]
Paracoccidioidomycosis is characterized as an infection primarily caused by the fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Paracoccidioidomycosis is a type of fungal infection that typically involves the mouth, skin, lymph nodes and throat, although symptoms sometimes appear in the patient's liver, lungs or spleen. [read more]
Paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration is a disease that is primarily characterized by the rapid development of what is known as severe pancerebellar dysfunction. PCD is typically associated with some gynecologic tumors, lung and breast cancer, particularly those with small cell lung carcinoma as well as Hodgkin's lymphoma. [read more]
It is an infection that is caused by a species of the bacteria genus Pasteurella that is found in animals and humans. The bacteria are carried in the mouth and respiratory tract of animals and humans. [read more]
Pediatric T-cell leukemia is a rare type of an acute lymphoblastic leukemia occuring to children. It is a cancer involving the lymphoblasts which forms lymphocyte cells. [read more]
Pelvic inflammatory disease is term used generally to describe inflammation occuring in the female uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes.The disease may also lead to a condition called tissue necrosis without abscess formation or with abscess formation. Pus cells due to the inflammation can be released and affect the peritoneum.Pelvic inflammatory disease is a very vague and broad term which can also refer to any form may it be viral, parasitic, bacterial, or fungal. In most cases, it is often bacterial in nature. [read more]
Perilymph fistula, or PLF, is an abnormal opening in the fluid-filled inner ear. Possible places where PLF can occur are: between the middle ear/mastoid sinus, the intracranial cavity, other spaces in the temporal bone, or the bone of the ear called the otic capsule. In most cases it is a tear in thin membranes called oval window and round window, between the middle and inner ears. Perilymph fistula is generally considered a rare disorder and may occur in one or both ears. [read more]
Perilymph fistula is also known as labyrinthine fistula. This is a condition wherein there is leakage of the inner ear fluid entering into the middle ear. This condition is believed to be a complication due to stapedectomy. Perilymphatic fistula are classified into four categories, namely congenital, iatrogenic, spontaneous, and traumatic. [read more]
Pompe's disease is a metabolic disorder in which the body an acid maltase deficiency. [read more]
Posterior uveitis is a sub-class of uveitis, a condition characterized by an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, which is called the uvea. Simply put, it is an inflammatory process involving the interior of the eye. Posterior uveitis refers to the inflammation of the retina and choroid. In the United States, 10% of the blindness cases are attributed to uveitis. Posterior uveitis is the rarer kind of uveitis. [read more]
Prolymphocytic leukemia is a type of chronic lymphocytic leukemia characterized by the presence of excessive immature white blood cells in the blood and bone marrow. Patients with prolymphocytic leukemia often experience feeling of being too tired. Unexplainable weight loss is often observed in most cases. It is also common to develop enlargement of spleen. Blood test results will show abnormally elevated level of prolymphocytes in blood or in the bone marrow. [read more]
Prostate cancer, familial refers to the clustering of prostate cancer within families. Patients are classified as suffering form prostate cancer, familial if they have at least one first-degree relative with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is malignancy (cancer) of the seminal fluid producing gland in males. [read more]
Queensland tick typhus - also alternatively known as Spotted Fever or Rickettsial Spotted Fever - is a type of bacterial parasitic disorder. [read more]
Quinsy is also known as peritonsillar abscess or PTA. This is a pustule between the wall of the throat and the back of the tonsils. [read more]
Rat-bite fever in an infectious disease where in a bite from a rat transfers a bacteria or fungi infection. The symptoms of the fever will depend on the organism which caused the infection. [read more]
Red measles, commonly known as German measles, is a short-lived contagious disease presented by red spots and inflammation of the lymph glands located behind the ears. The disease usually lasts from 14 to 21 days. [read more]
Renal cancer means cancer of the kidney; renal being the Latin word for kidney. The most common form of renal cancer is renal cell carcinoma, which starts in the renal tubule. [read more]
Reticuloendotheliosis is characterized by a lymphoma (or cancer that arises from the lymphocytes) of a part of the immune system known as the reticuloendothelial tissue. Leukemic reticuloendotheliosis, also known as hairy cell leukemia, is the most common type of reticuloendotheliosis. In this form of chronic leukemia, the malignant B-lymphocytes are observed in the spleen, bone marrow, and peripheral blood. When analyzed under a microscope, the malignant cells appear to be covered with minute hair-like protrusions. [read more]
Richter syndrome is an extremely rare disease characterized by the transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) into a rapidly progressive form of lymphoma. Also known as Richter transformation, this disorder is a type of high grade non Hodgkin's lymphoma affecting patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. To date, only 1 in 20 documented cases of CLL leads to Richter syndrome. [read more]
Rickettsialpox is a disease commonly presented by fever, lethargy, headache, skin rashes, and damage to the blood vessels. The disease is caused parasitic arthropods that thrive in the body causing ruptures in the lymph nodes. Rickettsialpox can be detected by serological tests and can be treated by tetracycline. [read more]
The medical term for this condition is Onchocerciasis which is the world's second most leading infectious cause of blindness. Basically it is a skin and eye infection which is caused by the helmith (worm) Onchocerca volvulus. The black fly that carries the worm is only seen in parts of Africa, South America and Middle East. [read more]
Rosai-Dorfman disease pertains to a rare, benign condition characterized by an excess in the production of histiocytes, which build up in the lymph nodes throughout the body. The elevated histiocytes typically accumulate in the lymphadenopathy of the neck. In addition, histiocytes may also build up outside the lymph nodes, particularly in the skin, bone, and upper respiratory tract. Rosai-Dorfman disease presents with a variety of symptoms depending on the site or area of histiocyte accumulation. [read more]
Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, also called Broad Thumb-Hallux syndrome, is a condition characterized by moderate to severe mental retardation, short stature, broad thumbs and first toes, distinctive facial features, and short stature. A distinction can be made between Rubinstein-Taybi like syndrome and Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome; the latter has gene promoter involvement. [read more]
Salpingitis is an infection in the fallopian tubes, often synonymous to PID. There are 2 types: acute and chronic salpingitis. Acute salpingitis happens when the fallopian tubes are swollen and stick together causing a blockage. Chronic salpingitis is milder but lasts longer that acute salpingitis. It may also result in hydrosalpinx. Salpingitis usually involves many types of organisms or is polymicrobal. [read more]
Sarcoidosis, also known as Besnier-Boeck disease, pertains to a disorder of the immune system characterized by non-caseating garnulomas that mostly affects young adults. The term is from the Greek words ?sark? and ?oid?, meaning ?flesh-like?. [read more]
Granulocytic sarcoma is a form of chloroma, characterized by the appearance of a solid tumor consisting of myeloblasts (i.e. or white blood cells that are described as immature and malignant). It is also alternatively known as granulocytic sarcoma or (more appropriately) extramedullary myeloid tumor. Basically, a chloroma is a solid collection of leukemic cells found outside the bone marrow; in particular, it is an extramedullary symptom of acute myeloid leukemia. [read more]
Scarlatina or scarlet fever covers the body with rashes, turns the tough into a strawberry-like appearance, and results in high fever. [read more]
Scarlet fever is an exotoxin illness characterized by a red ?strawberry-like? tongue, sore throat, fever, and a rash on the upper body that may spread to other parts of the body. A distinction must be made between scarlet fever and rheumatic fever, although the former can progress into the latter. [read more]
Serum sickness is a type of delayed sensitivity response. It usually appears four to ten days after exposure to the triggering substance which can be either antibiotics or antiserum. Antiserum is the portion of the serum containing antibodies like gamma globulin. Allergic reactions have rapid response while serum sickness reaction is delayed because it takes a long time for the body to produce antibodies to the new protein. [read more]
Severe combined immunodeficiency refers to a group of genetically inherited disorder which causes severe abnormalities in the immune system. These disorders result to reduced or impaired functions of the T and B lymphocytes. These are the specialized white blood cells processed in the bone marrow that fights infection. It is also known as the Boy in the Bubble Syndrome and referred to as the ?bubble boy? disease because victims are extremely vulnerable to infectious diseases. This group of life-threatening diseases is present at birth and if left untreated may cause death in the first years of the child. [read more]
Sezary syndrome also referred to as Sezary's disease is a rare type of cutaneous lymphoma characterized by skin redness, leukemia and enlarged lymph nodes. It is a form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, which is a cancerous disease involving the skin. This is a disease marked by a great increase of the white blood cells known as T-lymphocytes. [read more]
Sezary's lymphoma is a type of cutaneous lymphoma that usually starts in or on the skin. The cancer is marked by the excessive propagation of T-cells which are a type of white blood cell. The extent of skin involvement is uneven and most of the time patchy. [read more]
Situs Inversus, X-linked is a congenital condition wherein major visceral organs of the chest and abdomen are located in the wrong position. It occurs only in males because it is an X-linked disorder. For example, instead of being positioned on the left; the heart is located on the right side of the chest. In general, situs inversus, X-linked causes no problem but may tend to be relevant during medical examination or surgery because the internal organs are located in the wrong side of the body. [read more]
Small Intestine Cancer is the cancer that grows in the intestine between the stomach and the colon which is responsible for digesting and absorbing nutrients. It includes adenocarcinoma, lymphoma, sarcoma and the carcinoids. [read more]
The medical term for this kind of infection is pharyngitis. It is the swelling of the pharynx and in most cases is painful. It is regarded to be caused by viral infection (90%) while the remainder is caused by bacterial infection and in rare cases oral thrush. Irritation due to pollutants or chemical substance, sometimes cause sore throat. [read more]
Splenomegaly is enlargement of the spleen afar from its regular size. The spleen is an organ that plays an important role in the production and maintenance of red blood cells and in the production of some circulating white blood cells. The spleen is also part of two systems in the human body; the immune and lymph systems. [read more]
Sporotrichosis is a fungal disease affecting the skin but there are rare forms wherein the lungs, joints, bones and even the brain are affected. It is also referred to as rose-thorns or rose-gardener's disease because of the incidence that rose can spread the disease. SYMPTOMS Sporotrichosis progresses slowly and initial symptoms may present one to twelve weeks, usually at the average of three weeks after first fungal exposure. Symptoms may include the following ? Appearance of small painless skin bump, which may appear in the finger, hand or arm ? Boil-like lesions ? Firm skin nodules which can be ulcerative or suppurative ? Open sores ? Skin ulcerations located along lymph nodes [read more]
Strep throat is an infection caused by group A streptococcus bacteria, and it's very frequent among kids and teens. [read more]
Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear and ear canal. It can be associated with a middle ear infection (otitis media) if the eardrum gets ruptured. [read more]
Swelling of lymph nodes typically results from localized or systemic infection, abscess formation, or malignancy [read more]
Syphilis is a bacterial infection typically transmitted by sexual contact. The disease affects the genitals, skin and mucous membranes, but it may also involve many other parts of the body, including the brain and the heart. [read more]
Cutaneous T-Cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is a type of cancer of the immune system. [read more]
Idiopathic CD4+ lymphocytopenia (ICL) is a depletion of CD4+ lymphocytes below 300 per cubic millimeter, or less than one-fourth of total lymphocytes, in the absence of HIV infection or other known causes of immunodeficiency. This is a rare, heterogeneous syndrome and does not seem to be caused by a transmissible agent. People with ICL are susceptible to opportunistic infections, such as cryptococcus, atypical mycobacterial and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP). [read more]
Testes neoplasm is a cancer (malignant) that develops in the tissues of one or both testicles. [read more]
Throat cancer is a type of carcinoma affecting the pharynx (which connects the mouth and the nasal cavity), vocal cords, and/or the larynx or voice box. [read more]
In medicine (oncology), thymoma is a tumor progressing from the thymus. It is made up of any type of thymic epithelial cell as well as lymphocytes that are typically abundant and probably not neoplastic. [read more]
Thyroid cancer refers to one of four kinds of malignant tumors of the thyroid gland: papillary, follicular, medullary and anaplastic. [read more]
Tinea barbae is a superficial form of folliculitis, which is an infection of the hair follicles. [read more]
A parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, Toxoplasmosis infects most warm-blooded animals, including humans. This primary host of the disease however is the felid (cat) family. It is estimated that up to one third of the world's population carries a Toxoplasma infection. [read more]
Congenital toxoplasmosis is the infection caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii that is transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy. [read more]
The leading cause of blindness around the world, Trachoma is an infectious eye disease that resulted to about 8 million, visually-impaired people around the world. According to studies, the disease results to an estimated US $ 2.9 billion in lost productivity every year. [read more]
Trench mouth is severe type of gingivitis that usually causes painful, bleeding, infected gums and ulcerations. Usually develops in nations that have poor nutrition and poor living conditions. [read more]
Trench mouth is a severe form of gingivitis that results to painful, infected, bleeding gums, and ulcerations. It is also referred to as Vincent's stomatitis and acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis. [read more]
Treponema pallidum is a subspecies of the bacteria-like spirochete pallidum, which causes a highly contagious disease known as syphilis. [read more]
A parasitic disease in people and animals, Trypanosomiasis or also known as Sleeping sickness is endemic in certain regions of Sub-Saharan Africa. The region covers 36 countries and 60 million people. Presently, it is estimated that about 50,000 to 70,000 people are infected with the disease. [read more]
Another type of African trypanosomiasis, the West African type is also called Gambian sleeping sickness. About 20,000 new cases are reported of both East and West African trypanosomiasis are reported annually and a few cases of the West type have been reported in the United States. [read more]
TB or Disseminated tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection that has spread from the lungs to other organs of the body through the blood or the lymph system. [read more]
An infection common among wild rodents, is also known as ?rabbit fever,? ?deer fly fever,? ?Ohara fever,? and ?Francis disease.? The bacterium causing the disease has several subspecies with varying degrees of virulence. Ticks and deer flies are the primary vectors of the disease but can also be spread through other arthropods. Its name was derived from Tulare County, California. [read more]
Tularemia (deliberate release) is a serious infection caused by Francisella tularensis (F. tularensis) bacterium, a tiny gram-negative non-motile coccobacillus. Deer-fly fever, Francis disease, rabbit fever, and Ohara fever are other names for Tularemia (deliberate release). [read more]
Typhoid fever, also known as enteric fever, bilious fever or Yellow Jack, is a bacterial infection characterized by diarrhea, systemic disease, and a rash. [read more]
Uterine cancer is a most common form of carcinoma that begins in the endometrium or the lining of the uterus. Also called endometrial cancer, this type of cancer typically appears after the reproductive years, mostly in the sixth or seventh decade of life. [read more]
Vincent's stomatitis is more commonly known as Trench mouth, which has been known to be quite prevalent among soldiers who were are stuck during the World War I in the trenches. This is caused by a severe form of gingitivis caused by poor living conditions and poor nutrition. [read more]
Vulvar cancer pertains to a rare carcinoma affecting the vulva, the outer part of the female genitalia. It usually occurs in women aged 55-85, although it may sometimes affect females under 40 years old. [read more]
Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia , WM for brevity, is a type cancer disease which involves the lymphocytes or the subtype of white blood cells. It is usually a type of lymphoproliferative disease, and is often said to share the same characteristics with the non-Hodgkin Lymphomas ( Cheson BD (2006). "Chronic Lymphoid Leukemias and Plasma Cell Disorders", in Dale DD, Federman DD: ACP Medicine. New York, NY: WebMD Professional Publishing). [read more]
West Nile encephalitis is a viral infection that affects the brain. This disease causes great damages to the central nervous system and can lead to paralysis or even death. [read more]
Whipple disease is a systematic and rare disease which is often described as a gastrointestinal disorder that causes mal-absorption and affect other part of the including the heart, lungs, brain and eyes. [read more]
Whitlow otherwise known as the Herpetic whitlow, is a medical condition that is usually characterized by a severe painful infection of the hand which usually involves one or more fingers that is most often affects the terminal phalanx. [read more]
Yellow nail syndrome is a medical condition which includes the pleural effusions, lymphoedema, discoloration of the nails. [read more]
Yersinia is a gram-negative rod-shaped genus of bacteria belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae. They are usually a few micrometers in length and fractions of a micrometer in diameter. The natural reservoirs of Yersinia are rodents and, though less likely, other mammals. In humans, some species of Yersinia are pathogenic and cause infections through the blood or via the alimentary tract. Yersiniosis is the name of the disease caused by Yersinia in humans. [read more]
Yersinia pestis otherwise known as the Pasteurella pestis is a gram-negative facultative and anaerobic bipolar staining that makes it look as a safety pin bacteria which belongs to the family of Enterobacteriaceae (Collins FM (1996). Pasteurella, Yersinia, and Francisella. In: Baron's Medical Microbiology (Baron S et al, eds.), 4th ed., Univ of Texas Medical Branch). Yersinia Pestive have three distinct forms namely: the bubonic, the pneumonic, and the septicemic plague. [read more]