Definition Rectocele is a herniation (bulge) of the front wall of the rectum into the back wall of the vagina. The tissue between the rectum and the vagina is known as the rectovaginal septum and this structure can become thin and weak over time, resulting in a rectocele. When rectoceles …
Read More »Glossitis – Causes, Treatment and Prevention
Definition Glossitis refers to inflammation of the tongue, wherein it displays prominent swelling similar to ulcers on the tongue, apart from unusual colour changes and abnormal texture on its surface. In grave instances, the tongue becomes vastly enlarged, making it difficult to speak clearly and swallow food. The tongue is a vital …
Read More »Rhinophyma – Types, Pathophysiology and Treatment
Definition Rhinophyma is a benign condition of the nasal skin that results in abnormal growth and enlargement of the nose. While this is not cancerous, it results in a reddened, “bumpy” appearance of the nose that can be highly disfiguring. The etiology of this condition is multifactorial, but it is …
Read More »Peritonsillar Abscess – Pathophysiology, Causes and Prevention
Definition Peritonsillar abscess, or Quinsy are typically a complication of tonsillitis. They most often are caused by “strep throat” bacteria (group A beta-hemolytic streptococci). The peritonsillar space lies between each tonsil and the wall of the throat. An infection can cause a pus-filled swelling (abscess) to develop in this space. …
Read More »Childhood Obesity – Risk Factors, Complications, and Prevention
Overview Childhood obesity is a complex disease that can occur when your child is above a healthy weight for their age and height. The medical definition of childhood obesity is having a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s …
Read More »Anal Fistula – Types, Risk Factors, Causes and Treatment
Definition Anal fistula is an abnormal connection or tunnel between two areas in the anorectal region. The most common cause of anal fistulas is from a blocked mucus gland at the anorectal junction. The gland then becomes inflamed, and in an effort to expel its infected contents, expresses itself, usually …
Read More »Angular Cheilitis – Stages, Causes, Risk Factors and Treatment
Definition Angular cheilitis is a medical condition popularly known as “angular stomatitis that is characterized by cracked skin or wounds in the corner of the mouth where the lips meet. It is caused by the overdevelopment of fungi or bacteria, and can happen from habits like constantly licking your lips. …
Read More »Ovarian Cyst – Types, Causes, Treatment and Prevention
Definition Ovarian cyst is an abnormal fluid-filled pocket that develops on the inside of a girl’s ovaries. The ovaries are the female reproductive organ and are found in the lower abdomen. The ovaries release an egg during the ovulation phase of each menstrual cycle (period). Cysts in the ovaries are relatively …
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