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Definition An aneurysm occurs when an artery’s wall weakens and causes an abnormally large bulge. This bulge can rupture and cause internal bleeding. About 13,000 deaths occur each year in the United States from aortic aneurysms. Although an aneurysm can occur in any part of your body, they’re most common in …

Introduction Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. At first, someone with Alzheimer’s disease may notice mild confusion and difficulty remembering. Eventually, people with the disease may even forget important people in their lives and undergo dramatic personality changes. Alzheimer’s is the most …

Definition Alkaptonuria is a rare inherited disorder. It occurs when your body can’t produce enough of an enzyme called homogentisic dioxygenase (HGD). This enzyme is used to break down a toxic substance called homogentisic acid. When you don’t produce enough HGD, homogentisic acid builds up in your body. The buildup …

Introduction Apallic syndrome (AS) also called Unresponsive Wakefulness Syndrome (UWS) and Persistant Vegetative State. It is a result of a traumatic brain injury such as diffuse, bilateral cerebral cortical degeneration and anoxia, or encephalitis which causes the brain to halt the ability to create thoughts, experience sensation, and remember past …

Definition Antiphospholipid syndrome is an immune disorder in which abnormal antibodies are linked to abnormal blood clots in veins and arteries. It mostly affects the legs, but clots may also form in the kidneys, lungs and other organs. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is also known as Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome, Hughes syndrome, …