Definition Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Having just one of these conditions doesn’t …
Read More »Superior Vena Cava Syndrome (SVCS) – Causes and Treatment
Definition Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) develops from obstruction of venous drainage from the upper body, resulting in increased venous pressure, which leads to dilation of the collateral circulation. The superior vena cava is a large vein located in the upper chest, which collects blood from the head and arms …
Read More »Tumor Lysis Syndrome – Causes, Complications and Treatment
What is Tumor lysis syndrome? Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is characterized by rapid and massive destruction of tumor cells, which is caused by tumour cell death resulting in a sudden release into the blood stream of intracellular products (nucleic acids, potassium and phosphate). This can result in clinical toxicities including …
Read More »Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Symptoms and Causes
Overview Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling. Sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms. You can get DVT if you have certain …
Read More »Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) – Overview, Types and Treatment
Overview of Osteogenesis Imperfecta Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disorder of connective tissues caused by an abnormality in the synthesis or processing of type I collagen (the protein that is responsible for bone structure). It is also called brittle bone disease. It is characterized by an increased susceptibility to …
Read More »Eastern Equine Encephalitis – Symptoms and Diagnosis
What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis? Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a viral illness that can cause inflammation of the brain. Certain birds are reservoirs for this virus; mosquitoes that feed on these birds can carry the virus to people and other animals. Similar to West Nile Virus and St. Louis Encephalitis, …
Read More »End-Stage Renal Disease – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Overview End-stage renal disease, also called end-stage kidney disease or kidney failure, occurs when chronic kidney disease — the gradual loss of kidney function — reaches an advanced state. In end-stage renal disease, your kidneys no longer work as they should to meet your body’s needs. Your kidneys filter wastes …
Read More »Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Symptoms and Treatment
Definition Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, is when there is inflammation, or swelling, in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and a lifelong immune response. The disease causes the body and immune system to think that food, bacteria and other needed things in the intestine are not supposed to be there. With …
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