Cabaser contains the active drug cabergoline, a dopamine agonist medication. This means it increases dopamine activity within the brain which is an important factor controlling movements in the body. Cabaser is primarily used to treat the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease, a well known movement disorder characterised by tremor, rigidity and slowness of movement.
Cachexia
Cachexia is loss of weight, muscle atrophy, fatigue, weakness and significant loss of appetite in someone who is not actively trying to lose weight. It is simply the physical wasting with loss of weight and muscle mass caused by disease.
Caduet
Caduet is a medication that contains a combination of two drugs: amlodipine and atorvastatin. It is used to treat high cholesterol and blood pressure.
Caecum
The caecum is the expanded pouch of the large intestine that receives material from the ileum and starts to compress food products into faecal material.
Caesarean
Caesarean, commonly referred to as "C-section", is a surgical procedure in delivering the baby. Epidural (pain medicine) is given at this time, and an incision is made in the very low part of the woman's abdomen.
Caesarian delivery
Caesarian delivery is the birth of a baby through a surgical incision (cut) in the abdominal wall. In Australia, around a third of women giving birth do so through Caesarian deliveries.
Cafe au lait macules
Well defined pale brown patches on the skin. These are present in about 20% of the normal population, the presence of six or more macules in an individual is strongly associated with neurofibromatosis. This is another cause of benign melanocytic lesions.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a natural substance found in more than 60 plant species, including coffee beans and tea leaves. It is a commonly consumed drug which is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks and some medications. It is one of a group of drugs known as methylxanthines. These drugs stimulate the central nervous system and have a diuretic effect, which means that they increase urinary output. Caffeine can improve alertness and relieve fatigue in the short term, however regular consumption of large amounts of caffeine can lead to addiction. Excessive caffeine consumption is also associated with psychological disorders and reduced bone mineral density.
Calcifications, also known as microcalcifications, are small mineral deposits in the the breast. Calcifications may be due dried up secretions, reabsorbed blood, breast trauma or reaction to inflammation.
Calcium
Calcium is necessary for the building of strong bones, teeth and the development of muscles, heart and nerves. It is obtained mainly from milk.
Calcium
Calcium is a micronutrient which is important for the growth and maintenance of healthy teeth and bones. The best source of calcium is dairy products. Deficiency is associated with bone disorders, in particular osteoporosis.
Calcium channel blocker
Calcium channel blockers are a class of medications that inhibit calcium from entering smooth muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels. These medications are used to treat a number of conditions of the cardiovascular system including high blood pressure, angina and abnormal heart rhythms. Different drugs act specifically on the heart, peripheral vessels, or both.
Calcium Hydroxide
Calcium hydroxide is a substance that is useful for treating dentine hypersensitivity. It covers the dentine surface and thus closes the dentine tubes, which can cause pain when open.
Calendar based methods are pregnancy prevention methods which enable women to abstain from sex during the fertile days of their menstrual cycle. In order to use this method a woman must monitor the length of her menstrual cycle and track the progress through each cycle (e.g. by marking off the days on a calendar), in order to identify her fertile times.
The calendar rhythm method is a calendar based method of contraception which is suitable for women with irregular menstrual cycles, or those which last less than 26 or more than 32 days.
Calorie (Nutritional)
A calorie is a measure of the amount of energy released from food when the body breaks it down. These calories are used by the body as "fuel" to help it perform its functions, such as breathing and circulating blood.
Different foods contain different amounts of calories, depending on the amount of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and alcohol they contain.
The nutritional calorie is sometimes called a kilocalorie (kcal), or just a calorie (cal). To avoid confusion, units of energy for food are sometimes given in kilojoules. One calorie is approximately equal to 4.184 kJ.
Caltrate
Caltrate tablets contain the active ingredient, calcium carbonate, which neutralises excess acid produced by the stomach, thereby reducing the burning symptoms associated with:
Cancer is growth of abnormal cells that encroaches on the normal functioning of an organ. The body's normal mechanisms to control cell growth are not able to control the cancerous cells. The cancer cells grow rapidly and multiply to form a "clump" or mass of cancerous tissue, also known as a tumour. As the tumour enlarges, parts can break off and spread around the body to affect other organs. Common places for cancer to spread include the lungs, liver, bone and brain.
Cancer Cell
A cancer cell undergoes the same cell cycle process as normal cells yet they differ from normal cells because cancer cells replicate in an uncontrolled manner, meaning that more new cells are produced than the number that die and cancer cells can survive amongst cells of different types and can therefore move from one part of the body to another (e.g. the kidney to the pancreas). This is known as metastasis. Healthy cells on the other hand stick with other like cells (e.g. kidney with kidney cell).
Cancer of the parathyroid gland
An overactive parathyroid gland results in a condition called primary hyperparathyroidism, which can impact your health. Four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in your neck are called parathyroid glands. They make a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH). When your parathyroid glands are working normally, PTH keeps your calcium levels normal by moving the right amounts of calcium in and out of your bones. Primary hyperparathyoidism is caused by an enlargement of one or more of the parathyroid glands occasionally due to cancer of the parathyroid gland. In primary hyperparathyroidism, your parathyroid glands send out too much PTH to your body and your blood level of calcium becomes high. Sensipar lowers PTH by telling your parathyroid glands to stop releasing too much PTH into your blood. It also lowers your blood calcium levels.
Cancer Pain
Cancer pain is a common complication of cancer diseases. Because of the chronic and progressive nature of the disease, cancer pain is a common cause of chronic pain.
Cancer Surgery
Cancer Surgery is the oldest form of treatment for cancer. Not only does it play an important role in diagnosing and staging (finding the extent) of cancer, it also offers a high chance of cure for many types of cancer, especially those that are localised (i.e. have not yet spread to other parts of the body).
Cancidas
Cancidas is used to treat invasive candidiasis including candidaemia, oesophageal candidiasis and invasive aspergillosis, when other antifungal treatments have not worked or when other antifungal treatments have not been tolerated. It is also used if persistent fever following chemotherapy is not reduced by treatment with an antibiotic.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis refers to infection with a particular fungus/ yeast called Candida. The infection can affect virtually any organ in the body but commonly affects the skin or mucosal surfaces such as the mouth (oral thrush) or female genitals (vulva and vaginal thrush). Infection with Candida is more common in people with immunodeficiency.
Canesoral
Canesoral (active ingredient is fluconazole) is an oral antifungal to treat vaginal candidiasis (also known as thrush)
Canines
There are two conical shaped teeth called canines located on either side of the incisors. The canines are used for tearing.
Canula
A Canula is a plastic tube that can be inserted into the body. Most commonly a venous canula is used in which a plastic tube is inserted into one of the veins of the body for the sampling of blood or insertion of fluids and/or drugs.
Cap
A cap is a barrier contraceptive which resembles a diaphragm. It is designed to fit tightly over the cervix.
Capillary
An extremely narrow blood vessel, which form networks in most tissues. Blood runs through capillaries to supply the body's tissues. Petechiae result from broken capillary vessels.
Capillary action
Capillary action is movement which occurs as a result of chemical reactions between chemicals in a solid and a liquid substance.
Carbamazepine a drug that belongs to a group of medicines called anti-convulsants. It works by controlling and adjusting nerve activity in the brain.
Carbamide peroxide
Carbamide peroxide is a colourless liquid used principally as a bleaching agent.
Carbapenems
Carbapenems are another class of beta lactamantibiotic with a chemical structure which makes them highly resistant to enzymes produced by bacteria to counteract them, such as beta lactamases.These include: Meropenem, Imipenem and Ertapenem. This class of antibiotics has a broad spectrum of activity and are effective against many bacteria.
Carbohydrate
A group of substances including the sugars and starches, that contain carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy and play a major role in blood sugar control.
Carbon monoxide is the same chemical found in car exhaust. Carbon monoxide causes damage to the lungs as it increases stress on the heart by depriving the body of oxygen. Carbon monoxide is a component of cigarette smoke.
Carbonic acid
Carbonic acid is an acid formed by dissolving carbon dioxide in water. It is the basis of carbonated beverages.
Carboxyhaemoglobin
Carbon monoxide (a colourless, odourless, highly poisonous gas released from burns) has a greater affinity for the haemoglobin in our red blood cells than compared to oxygen. This joins onto haemoglobin, forming the compound carboxyhaemoglobin, which reduces the oxygen carrying capacity of blood in some patients affected by burns.
Carcinogenic
A carcinogenic material is something which is known to cause cancer. The cancer-causing material is called a carcinogen.
Carcinoid syndrome
Carcinoid syndrome is a condition which occurs in individuals with bowel tumours. It causes diarrhoea, pain, heart damage and heart beat irregularities.
Cardiac
This refers to issues relating to the heart. Cholesterol lowering drugs such as fibrates may have effects on our cardiac status.
Cardiac ablation
Cardiac Ablation is a procedure in which radiofrequency energy is used to carefully destroy (or ablate) abnormal tissue in the heart. In this operation, a thin tube (the catheter) is passed into the heart, carrying a small probe. This probe puts out the energy necessary to destroy cardiac tissue. Cardiac ablation is used for the treatment of heart rhythm disorder.
Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy (CAV)
Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy (CAV) is a progressive form of coronary arteriosclerosis that is highly predictive of further cardiac events. The symptoms of CAV include inflammation of the coronary arteries and endothelial dysfunction leading to arterial narrowing. As a result, CAV can cause the extremely painful angina pectoris in affected individuals.
Cardiac cycle
Cardiac cycle refers to a sequence of events that occurs in one complete beat of the heart.
Cardiac dysrhythmia
Cardiac dysrhythmia refers to any abnormality in the rate, regularity, or sequence of cardiac activation
Cardiac MRI
A Cardiac MRI is a special type of Magnetic Resonance Imaging that is designed specifically to get images of the heart. It can also give information about blood flow to, from and within the heart.
Cardiac Muscle
Cardiac muscle is a special type of muscle which makes up the wall of the heart.
Cardiac PET Scan
A Cardiac PET Scan is a PET Scan that can give information about the energy used by different parts of the heart. Rather than only looking for cancers, a Cardiac PET scan can look for areas with low blood supply.Click Here for More Information about Cardiac PET Scans
Cardiomegaly
Cardiomegaly is an abnormal enlargement of the heart.
Cardiotocography (CTG)
Cardiotocography CTG) monitoring is a newer method of recording foetal heart rate and contractions. It is continual monitoring of the foetus and contractions via ultrasound probes strapped to the mother's abdomen.
Cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease is a term used to describe diseases affecting the heart and/or blood vessels (arteries and veins). Cardiovascular disease usually implies diseases affecting arteries by a process called atherosclerosis.
Cardiovascular risk factors
Cardiovascular risk factors are features that may increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease such as atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease or stroke. Common risk factors include old age, gender (male), family history, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking and sedentary lifestyle. Some of these are "modifiable" (such as smoking or diabetes) meaning you can get treatment to reduce your risk. However other factors (such as age, sex and family history) are "non-modifiable" as you cannot change them.
Cardiovascular System
The cardiovascular system can be thought of as the transport system of the body. This system has three main components: the heart, the blood vessel and the blood itself.
Cardioversion
Cardioversion is a treatment used to restore the heart to its normal rhythm. It can be done electrically or pharmacologically for the treatment of atrial fibrillatioin. In electrical cardioversion, an electric 'shock' is given to the heart while the patient is anaesthetized, to restore the normal heart rhythm. In pharmacological cardioversion, anti-arrhythmic medications are administered under ECG monitoring to help restore the normal heart rhythm.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The result may be pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist, progressing up the arm.
The carpus refers to the wrist, which is located on the proximal part of the hand and consists of eight small bones, known as carpals, which are linked together by ligaments.
Carrier (genetic)
A carrier is someone who does not have a disease, but has one copy of a faulty, disease-causing gene. For example, the children of parents who are both carriers of a cystic fibrosis (CF) disease gene, are at risk of inheriting the disease.
A carrier protein is a protein molecule that binds to other molecules (e.g. hormones) and transports them through the body (e.g. in blood).
Carrier screening
Carrier screening involves testing people who do not have a particular disease but may have a recessive gene for that disease which can make them a carrier of the disease. Carrier screening is offered for a number of genetic diseases including cystic fibrosis (CF).
Cartilaginous joints
In cartilaginous joints the union between the bones occurs via cartilage. There are two main categories of cartilaginous joints, Primary cartilaginous joints and Secondary cartilaginous joints.
Casein protein is an important component of milk, allowing the delivery of liquid calcium and phosphate to the baby. It also forms a clot in the stomach that allows more efficient nutrition.
Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) is a compound that slows the progression of tooth decay and helps to strengthen teeth.
CAT scan
Pictures of structures within the body created by a computer that takes the data from multiple X-ray images and turns them in pictures on a screen. The CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography) scan can reveal some soft tissue and other structures that cannot even be seen in conventional X-rays.
Cataplexy
Cataplexy is a period where the body loses all voluntary muscle tone.
Cataract
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in your eye that affects your vision. It is very common in older people. Common symptoms include:
A catheter is described as a thin flexible tube which is utilised to remove fluids from the body. A catheter is most commonly used to remove urine from the body.
Catheter ablation
Catheter Ablation is a procedure used to destroy (ablate) areas of the heart that are causing arrhythmias. A long, thin tube (or "catheter") is inserted into a blood vessel in the leg and threaded through the vessel until the tip reaches the heart. At the tip of the catheter is an electrode, which can emit radiofrequency waves to "burn" and inactivate the target area(s).
Caudal dysplasia
Caudal dysplasia refers to disruption of the maturation of the caudal portion of the spinal cord complex prior to 4 weeks gestation, leading to motility deficits and neurological impairment. This may be seen in suboptimal blood sugar control in diabetic patients.
Caudal epidural block
A caudal epidural block refers to an anaesthetic which is injected directly into the spine.
Cavernosal Fibrosis
Cavernosal fibrosis is a condition in which a man has scar tissue in the penile tissues. It can affect his ability to achieve an erection.
Cell cultures are developed in a lab. Cell cultures are lines of a certain cell strain that are grown in the lab for experimentation. This allows scientists to experiment on cells without any danger to a living organism. For example, before a drug can be tested in animals the effect it has on cell cultures must be investigated.
Cell cycle
Cell cycle is the cycle through which active cells go in the process of dividing to form new cells.
Cell Differentiation
Cell Differentiation is the process stem cells undergo in order to become a specialised cell such as an kidney cell or a skin cell.
Cell Division (Mitosis)
Cell Division (Mitosis) is the division of a cell to form two identical daughter cells. Before a cell divides all of the genetic material contained in DNA must be accurately replicated in a process called DNA replication. After replication the cell then has two copies of its DNA. When the cell divides the DNA is split equally between the two daughter cells. These cells then go on to DNA replication and division and so on. Cells are continuously replicating and dividing.
Cell membranes
The cell membrane is the surface of a cell. The membrane holds the cell together and provides protection to the cell. Only certain molecules can pass through the cell membrane and into the cell.
Cells
Cells are the fundamental, structural, and functional unit of living organisms.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin which is characterised by redness, swelling and increased warmth. It often occurs at sites where the skin has been broken and is most commonly caused by the organisms Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus.
Cementum
Cementum refers to the hardy mineral surface that covers the root of a tooth.
Central obesity is an excess accumulation of fat in the abdominal area. This is an especially dangerous place for fat build up because it is closely located to the vital organs and their blood supply.
Centrifugation
A process used to separate mixtures containing different substances through the use of centrifugal force, or the force that occurs when something is rotated at a high speed.
Cephalic Presentation
Cephalic presentation refers to when the head of the baby enters the birth canal first.
Cephalosporins
Cephalosporins are Antibiotics that are divided into four major groups. Some being quite active against bacteria that belong to the 'Gram positive' group and others the 'Gram negative group'.
Cerebellum
The cerebellum lies at the back of the brain and is composed of of two cerebellar hemispheres. The major functions of the cerebellum include maintaining balance and equilibrium and programming and fine-tuning voluntary and involuntary movements. As a component of the brain, the cerebellum is also part of the central nervous system (CNS).
Cerebral cortex
The cerebral cortex is located on the surface of the cerebral hemispheres of the brain. It is highly convoluted and folded. This allows a large surface area to fit inside the confined space of the skull. The cerebrum is responsible for the integration of complex functions and the initiation of voluntary movement.
Cerebral grey matter
Cerebral grey matter is grey tissues in the brain which regulate sensory responses.
Cerebral oedema
Cerebral oedema is the accumulation of excess water in the intracellular and extracellular spaces in the brain.
Cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is the term used for disorders of movement and posture caused by impaired development of a specific part of the brain (for motor control).
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the fluid which covers all exposed surfaces of the central nervous system. Cerebrospinal fluid main functions are to cushion the delicate brain structure, supports the weight of the brain and act as a transport medium for nutrients, chemical messengers and waste products.
Cerebrovascular disease
Cerebrovascular disease is a disease of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. The causes of cerebrovascular disease include diabetes, fatty deposits in the arteries or a blood clot. The result can be a stroke or bleeding into the brain.
Cerumen
Cerumen, also known as earwax, along with the fine hairs, guard that the entrance to the ear canal, helps prevent airborne particles from reaching the inner portions of the ear canal, where they could accumulate or injure the eardrum and interfere with hearing.
A cervical cap is a contraceptive device which is inserted in to the vaginal to cover the cervical opening. It protects against unwanted pregnancy by preventing sperm entering the uterus.
Cervical cytology
Cervical cytology, commonly known as a PAP smear, is a test in which a swab of vaginal fluid is tested in order to determine the presence or absence of disease, in particular cancer of the cervix. In Australia it is recommended that women have a PAP smear every two years.
Cervical dilation is the increase in opening diameter of the cervix that occurs in order for the baby to exit the womb and enter the birth canal during labour.
Cervical Dysplasia
Cervical Dysplasia cervical cells that are abnormal in appearance. An abnormal tissue growth on the cervix that may progress to cancer if not treated in time. Cervical dysplasia is detected through a Pap smear.
Cervical Dystonia (Spasmodic Torticollis)
Cervical dystonia, also called spasmodic torticollis, is the most common focal dystonia. Cervical dystonia describes dystonia of the neck muscles, characterised by abnormal head posture, involuntary muscle contractions of the cervical spine, head tremor, sustained neck spasms and craniocervicalpain.
Cervical effacement is the progressive shortening and thinning of the cervix. It occurs before the cervix dilates in order to allow the baby to leave the womb and enter the birth canal during labour.
Cervical invasive resorption
Cervical invasive resorption is a type of resorption that causes the tooth to become pink.
Cervical mucus
Cervical mucus is mucus secreted by the glands of the cervix. It changes in consistency throughout the ovulation cycle. It generally acts as a barrier to the entry of foreign objects to the uterus, however is thought to help transport sperm into the uterus.
Cervical mucus monitoring
Cervical mucus monitoring is a method of pregnancy prevention in which a woman monitors changes to her cervical mucus, in order to determine when she is and when she is not fertile. This enables her to abstain from sex or use another method of contraception in her fertile periods.
Cervical ripening occurs when the cervix begins to soften as a result of the dissociation of its tough connective tissue fibres at the onset of labour.
Cervical secretions
Cervical secretions (also known as cervical mucus) arise in the cervical canal and are expelled through the vagina. They occur in the fertile stage of a woman's menstrual cycle.
Cervix
The cervix is the extension of the uterus into the top part of the vagina. A small passage through the middle of the cervix leads into the cavity of the uterus.
Cetylpyridinium chloride is used as an antibacterial in dentistry in some toothpastes, lozenges, and mouthwashes.
Champix
Champix is a medication which helps people quit smoking. Champix helps to decrease the withdrawal symptoms commonly experienced when stopping smoking.
Charles Bonnet syndrome
Charles Bonnet syndrome is a visual disorder characterised by visual hallucinations. It is experienced by a significant minority (12%) of individuals who experience vision loss as a result of macular degeneration.
Chemical neurolysis
Chemical neurolysis involves using chemicals to break down nerve tissue.
Chemoreceptor zone (CTZ)
The chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) is involved in vomiting. When activated, the CTZ does not initiate vomiting itself, but relays stimuli to the integrative vomiting centre which produces the actual act of emesis.
Chemoreceptors
Chemoreceptors are cells that transduce chemical stimuli and relay the signal to the central nervous system.
Chemotactic Factors
Chemotactic factors refer to chemical substances that attract or repel cells or organisms. They particularly refer to substances that are released as a result of tissue injury or immunologic activity, and attract leukocytes, macrophages and other cells to the site of infection or injury.
Chickenpox is a common childhood illness caused by infection with the Varicella Zoster virus. Children may complain of fever, runny nose, cough, and a characteristic blistering rash over the trunk and face. If a pregnant woman develops chickenpox for the first time during her pregnancy, there is a small risk that her baby will have congenital malformations, deafness, or skin scarring as a result. Children and adults can be protected against chickenpox through immunisation.
Chilblain
Chilblain occurs when a person is exposed to cold and wet conditions for a long time. Joints become inflamed and swollen. Symptoms intially involve itchiness around the inflamed joints. As the condition worsens, the joints become very painful.
Childbirth pain
Childbirth pain is an expected symptom of labour and varies in severity. The onset of labour is denoted by rhythmic and forceful contraction of the uterus. There are two stages of labour, the first and the second stage. Pain during the first stage labour is generally felt in the lower abdomen, groins and lower lumbar and sacral regions. This results from the dilatation of cervix and the lower segment of uterine followed by distension the uterine body. On the other hand, the second stage of labour is associated with the lower back and anorectal pain, which are due to the contraction of uterus and pressure on the pelvic floor.
Chin Liposuction
Chin Liposuction is when fat is broken up and sucked out of the chin. This is done through a canula (a hollow instrument) inserted subdermally (under the skin). A strong (high-pressure) vacuum is applied to the cannula.
Chinese restaurant syndrome (CRS)
Chinese restaurant syndrome is a set of symptoms experienced by some people after they eat at a Chinese restaurant. Symptoms can include headache, burning, flushing, sweating, tingling and chest pain. Chinese restaurant syndrome is popularly associated with monosodium glutamate (MSG), although a link has not been proven.
Chiropractic Therapy
Chiropractic therapy involves manipulating the vertebrae of the spine.
Chloasma, also known as the "mask of pregnancy", is a temporary blotchy darkening of the skin on the nose and cheeks. This usually disappears when the pregnancy is over.
Chlorhexidine gluconate
Chlorhexidine gluconate is the active ingredient used in antibacterial rinses. It is absorbed by tooth surfaces, and is recommended for many dental problems, and procedures.
chlorpromazine
A phenothiazine antipsychotic drug. It is used to treat schizophrenia and mania. Can also help to control vomiting and nausea feeling in terminal illness.
Cholecalciferol
Cholecalciferol is a form of Vitamin D, which is an essential nutrient required by the body to regulate calcium and phosphorus levels.
Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
Gallbladder removal is surgery to remove the gallbladder. Surgery is usually performed if the gallbladder is inflamed or obstructed, if gallstones are causing pancreatitis, or if cancer is suspected.
Cholelithiasis
Cholelithiasis is the presence of gallstones (choleliths) in the gallbladder. Gallstones are crystalline deposits composed namely of cholesterol but may also consist of small amounts of fats, phospholipids and metals.
Cholestasis
Cholestasis is a condition in which the formation or flow of bile is impaired, resulting in the buildup of bilirubin and bile salts in the blood.
Cholestatic Hepatitis
Cholestatic hepatitis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the liver. It is often associated with a reaction to medication.
Cholestatic Jaundice
Cholestatic jaundice refers to jaundice caused by thickened bile or bile plugs in the small biliary passages of the liver.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is naturally found in the walls of cells. It is used by the body to produce certain hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that help to digest fat. If the amounts of cholesterol in the blood are excessive (as in hypercholesterolaemia), cholesterol can build up in arteries which can lead to coronary heart disease and many other serious conditions.
Cholesterol test
A cholesterol test is a simple blood test carried out to measure the levels of the two cholesterol types in the blood known as HDL and LDL cholesterol as well as the levels of triglycerides, another lipid found in the blood. Thus, four measures are determined from this test, the amount of total cholesterol, the amount of HDL, LDL and triglycerides. A total cholesterol test is also referred to as a fasting lipoprotein profile and is carried out in order to evaluate a person’s risk of developing heart disease.
Choline salicylate
Choline salicylate is used to primarily relieve the pain and discomfort caused by mouth ulcers, denture irritation, and sore spots.
Chordee
Chordee refers to the downward curvature of the penis, resulting from either congenital abnormalities or infection.
Chorioamnionitis
Chorioamnionitis is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the foetus (chorion and amnion), most frequently caused by bacteria entering the uterus from the vagina.
Chorionic villus sampling is a test performed during pregnancy using a sample of tissue from the placenta, known as chorionic villus. As the placenta has the same DNA make up as the foetus, the placental tissue can be used to test for genetic conditions relating to DNA make up such as Down's syndrome.
Chorioretinitis is an inflammatory eye condition involving the choroid and retina (membranes which surround the eye). It can arise as a result of infection or diseases which weaken the immune system such as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and tuberculosis. Symptoms include eye pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and excessive tear production.
Choroid
The choroid is the portion of the eye situated between the retina and the schlera. The choroid contains many blood vessels which supply the eye with blood.
Choroidal neovascularisation
Choroidal neovascularisation refers to the growth of abnormal blood vessels around the eye's macular. It causes wet macular degeneration.
Chromate
A salt of chromic acid, such as potassium chromate, K2CrO4. Chromates can cause contact dermatitis.
Chromatopsia
Chromatopsia is a condition in which objects appear to be abnormally coloured or tinged with colour.
Chromosomal Cross-over (Independent assortment)
Chromosomal cross-over is a process that occurs during meiosis. Segments of one chromosome are replaced with the corresponding segment from its homolog and vice versa.
Chromosome Abnormality
A chromosome abnormality can be referred to as an abnormality of chromosome structure or number. Chromosome abnormalities generally happen when there is an error in cell division.
Chromosomes
Chromosomes are peg-shaped structures located in the nucleus of a cell which contain genetic information. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes (i.e. 46 chromosomes altoghether).
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is a relatively common disease of the lungs. It is defined clinically as daily cough, productive of sputum, for greater than three months for at least two consecutive years. It is often associated with impairment in lung function and thus classified as part of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterised by long-lasting, disabling fatigue for which no cause can be found. People with chronic fatigue syndrome may also experience concentration loss, joint or muscle pain, and disturbed sleeping patterns.
Chronic Heart Failure
Chronic Heart Failure a disease in which the heart is not able to pump well enough to sufficiently supply the body. It is a long-term problem and there are many causes, the most common of which is a previous heart attack.
Chronic juvenile arthritis
Chronic juvenile arthritis, also known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis occurs in those less the 16 years old and is the most common form of persistent arthritis in children.
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease occurs with long-term kidney disease, resulting in a gradual decline in kidney function over time.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia is a progressive, cancerous disease of the bone marrow (the blood-forming organ of the body) that results in an increased production of immature or abnormal white blood cells (leukocytes). These abnormal white blood cells are unable to function properly in protecting the body against infection, and suppress the production of other types of blood cells. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia generally affects older patients.
Chronic myeloid leukaemia
A disorder where the multiplication of bone marrow cells is excessive. Maturation of the cells proceeds fairly normally.
Chronic Neutrophilic Leukaemia CNL
Chronic Neutrophilic Leukaemia is a very rare neoplasm that has recently been recognised as a distinct entity of haemopoietic malignancies. It is characterised by sustained peripheral blood neutrophilia and is distinct because there is no evidence of dysplasia in any of the cell lineages and there is no associated bone marrow fibrosis.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmlonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is an umbrella term for several diseases of the lungs. It is usually caused by cigarette smoking or other environmental toxins. Three disaeses classified as types of COPD are: chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and emphysema.
Chronic pain
Chronic pain may begin as acute pain, but lasts longer than would normally be expected for the sort of injury that has occurred. Chronic pain may also occur when pain comes back for an unknown reason.
Chronic Rejection
Chronic rejection is a type of rejection that appears months or years after successful transplantation, and is the major cause of long term graft loss.
Chylomicrons
Chylomicrons are a class of lipoproteins that carry dietary cholesterol and triglcerides from the small intestine to the tissues. Their density (0.93-1.006 g/ml) is the same as that of very low density lipoproteins or VLDL's.
Cigarettes are a small roll of porous paper containing a rod of chopped up tobacco leaf. Cigarettes are designed so that the tobacco can be smoked, by lighting the cigarette and breathing in the smoke. At the mouth end of the cigarette there is second layer of porous paper (called tipping paper) and a filter. The tipping paper is designed to allow fresh air to infiltrate when the smoker inhales. This fresh air reduces the harshness of the smoke. The filter cools the smoke and reduces the flow of smoke out of the cigarette. Cigarettes also contain additives such as sugars and flavourings which are used to increase shelf life, control the rate at which the cigarette burns and controls the delivery of the chemicals.
Cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 different chemical compounds. Many of these are toxic, and at least 43 are known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents). Examples of known compunds found in cigarettes include: nicotine, carbon monoxide and tar.
The cigarette smoke condensate is tar. Tar is a mixture of the compounds in cigarette smoke which condensate (turns from a gas to a solid) once in the lungs to form a sticky brown substance. Tar is made of nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and a wide range other chemicals. These chemicals are cancer causing so when they are in the solid ‘tar’ form in the lung they are the main cause of lung and throat cancer. Tar is also the part of cigarette smoke which causes the yellow-brown stains on teeth and fingers.
Cigars are large rolls of air-cured tobacco which are wrapped in tobacco-leaf. Cigar tobacco is left to age and ferment and therefore contains even greater amounts of carcinogenic compounds.
Cilia are little 'hairs' on the inside of a bronchus which sweep mucous up towards the trachea (windpipe).
Ciproxin HC Ear Drops
Ciproxin HC Ear Drops are a combination ear drop containing an antibiotic, Ciprofloxacin and a corticosteroid, Hydrocortisone (which reduces the inflammation). These ear drops are usually used to treat an infected outer ear which is commonly known as bacterial otitis externa but may be used for other conditions.
Circadian Rhythm (Body Clock)
The circadian rhythm or body clock is a biological process that occurs naturally on a 24-hour cycle (i.e. a full day). The word 'circadian' comes from the Latin circa (around) and dies (days).
The circadian rhythm is a 24-hour cycle of physiological, biochemical and behavioural processes that occur in the body, which are synchronised with the external light/dark cycles of the environment (known as Zeitgebers or 'time givers').
When there is a time change such as during air travel, the body needs time to adapt and re-synchronise the circadian rhythm with the external Zeitgebers of the new time zone, thus giving rise to the symptoms of jet lag.
Circadin Prolonged Release Tablets contain the active ingredient melatonin, and are used to treat individuals aged ≥55 years who experience primary insomnia. This condition is characterised by poor quality sleep. Circadin is used to improve sleep quality and morning alertness on a short term basis (for up to three weeks).
Circuit training involves a course of many different resistance exercises. The entire circuit usually only takes 30-45 minutes and is a good way to train a large range of muscle groups in a short amount of time.
Circulatory Collapse
In relation to human health, circulatory collapse refers to the collapse of the circulatory system which transports blood from the heart, through the body and back.
Circumcision (Male)
Male circumcision is the process of surgically removing a male's foreskin.
Cisplatin
Cisplatin is a type of drug used in chemotherapy. It is most commonly used to treat testicular, bladder, lung, oesophagus, stomach and ovarian cancers.
citric acid
Citric acid is an acid obtained from citrus fruits.
Classic migraine
Classic migraines are often preceded by neurological symptoms which develop before the headache. These may include visual symptoms, or other symptoms such as weakness, loss of sensation in the limbs or inability to talk.
Classical Conditioning
Classical conditioning is the process of conditioning a desired behavioural response to a specific stimulus. The classic example is the story of Pavlov's dog. Everytime just before Pavlov feed his dog he rang a bell, after doing this for a couple of weeks Pavlov would ring the bell without giving his dog food and he observed that his dog would salivate as he was anticipating the food. This concept is used in behavioural therapy to alter people's maladaptive behaviours.
Claustrophobia
Claustrophobia is a type of phobic disorder; specifically the fear or phobia of confined spaces.
Cleavage refers to the mitotic divisions that occur in the zygote during the first 3 days after fertilisation.
Cleidocranial dysostosis
Cleidocranial dysostosis is a rare hereditary condition characterized by poor bone formation in different parts of the body. The complete or partial absence of the clavicles (shoulder bone) is a feature, along with other dental and vertebral problems.
Clexane
Clexane is a medication that is used to stop or treat blood clots forming inside the body. Clexane is commonly used to prevent clotting after an operation such as a hip replacement, or in certain heart conditions.
Climacteric
The climacteric is the time around menopause when low oestrogen levels are causing symptoms. The climacteric can also be called the perimenopause.
Climara
Climara is a medication used to treat symptoms (such as hot flushes) that occur in women who are going through menopause, or who have had their ovaries removed. Climara can also be used to help keep bones healthy after menopause.
A clinical trial is a scientifically constructed investigation of a treatment (e.g. medication) that involves patient volunteers. Some clinical trials involve a mixture of healthy people and patients in the study group.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials can be thought of as drug "testing". All drugs must be tested in order to prove their safety and efficacy before they can be marketed to the public. The drug is tested in healthy volunteers and then in people who the drug is designed to treat. Clinical trials can take up to 10 years to complete.
Clinically Based Health Program
Clinically based health programs are run from health facilities by health professionals. They typically focus on providing biomedical interventions (e.g. vaccinations or treatments).
Clitoromegaly
Clitoromegaly is a condition characterised by an abnormally enlarged clitoris. It is associated with excessive levels of androgens (e.g. testosterone) in the female body.
A medication used to reduce bone loss in some cancers by reducing the amount of calcium removed from the bone.
Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel is an anti-platelet medicine that works by preventing platelets from clumping together thereby preventing the formation of blood clots in hardened blood vessels. This reduces the risk of getting a heart attack, stroke or the possibility of death.
Clotting
Clotting is the ability of the blood to become a clot - that is, to thicken and solidify. This process occurs by the action of combination of platelets and clotting factors. The tendency of the blood to clot has to be held in careful balance - if it clots to easily, it will block of the flow of blood through vessels. If it is too thin, then if a vessel is broken or injured (such as in a cut or bruise), then blood will continue to flow out and never stop. This balance can be deliberately or accidentally changed by certain unusual changes in the diet or prescription drugs. People also may have an uneven balance due to their genetic make-up.
Cluster Designation 4 (CD4) cells
A cluster designation 4 (CD4) cell is a special type of white blood cell. CD4 plays an important role in orchestrating and controlling the functions of the whole immune system.
Coagulation
Coagulation is a complex process aimed at clotting the blood at appropriate amounts during bleeding.
Coagulation factors
A group of substances present in the blood, that can undergo a series of chemical reactions to convert blood from a liquid or solid state. Petechiae can result from problems with coagulation factors such as deficiencies.
Coal Worker's Pneumoconiosis (CWP)
Coal Worker's Pneumoconiosis (CWP) is a disease of the lung resulting from the long-term inhalation of microscopic dust particles which was most commonly seen in coal worker's, hence the name. CWP affects the small airways and alveoli of the lung, particularly in the upper zones.
Coated tongue
Coated tongue is characterised by a coloured layer composed of mainly food particles, bacteria, and debris from epithelium in the mouth.
Cochlear
The cochlear follows on from the vestibule, which is sometimes referred to as the organ of hearing, as it is the part of the whole ear that actually converts sound vibrations to the perception of hearing. The cochlear is in the form of a snail-like spiral, so that a longer cochlear is able to fit inside an enclosed space.
Cochlear implants
Cochlear implants are electronic devices which are surgically implanted in the ear. They convert sound signals into electrical signals that can directly stimulate the auditory nerve, so as to bypass a defective cochlear system. Cochlear implants cannot restore normal hearing but they permit recipients to recognise sounds.
Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the small bowel. It usually affects the first part of the small bowel (duodenum and jejunum), but can affect the entire small bowel in some people.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant involved in regulating the mitochondrion, an energy producing component of cells.
Cognition
Cognition refers to the mental functions associated with thinking.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is useful in many different psychiatric conditions. It is based on the idea that a thought has to have proceeded a mood, and that these thoughts are often incorrect or illogical. CBT aims to correct these beliefs and, in doing so, improve symptoms.
Cognitive decline
Cognition refers to thinking. Cognitive decline, therefore, is the process of a decline in the normal thinking patterns and speed. Cognitive decline is an aging process associated with dementia.
Cognitive development disorders
Cognitive development disorders are disorders where the development of an individual's mental and cognitive function is impaired.
Cognitive maturation is a process of neurodevelopment which involves ‘fine-tuning' the brain into a mature functional thinking system.
Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that uses techniques to change maladaptive thinking patterns. Cognitive psychologists believe that by changing the way we think about certain aspects of our lives it will help with vicious emotional cycles that can lead to psychological problems.
Coital
Coital means of or pertaining to penetrative vaginal sex, which is also called coitus.
Coitarche
Coitarche is the first act of sexual intercourse.
Coitus interruptus
Coitus interruptus, also known as withdrawal, is a contraceptive method in which intercourse is interrupted before the man ejaculates, so that he can withdraw his penis from his partner's vagina. In doing so, he prevents sperm from entering his partner's uterus and thus prevents pregnancy. Coitus interuptus is one of the least effective contraceptive methods. However, it provides far greater protection from pregnancy than not using any contraception at all.
Colazide is the brand name for a drug called balsalazide. This is a fairly new drug used in the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis in those who cannot take sulfasalazine. Colazide is generally well tolerated and effective at treating acute attacks of ulcerative colitis as well as preventing recurrence. Colazide works by releasing mesalazine in the colon which reduces inflammation, treats symptoms and heals the bowel wall lining.
Cold sores
Cold sores are an infection that usually occurs on the lips caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. Symptoms include blistering of lips and/or mouth with burning and pain. The first infection occurs earlier in life and becomes active again causing recurrent outbreaks.
Cold Stress
Cold stress occurs when the body cannot maintain a high enough temperature when exposed to extremely cold conditions. Cold stress includes; hypothermia, frostbite, chilbain and immersion foot.
Collagen
The fibrous protein component of bone, cartilage, tendon, and other connective tissue, which is altered in stretch mark formation.
Colloid osmotic pressure
Colloid osmotic pressure is the osmotic pressure exerted by plasmaproteins.
Colon cancer
Colon cancer may be of the adenocarcinoma type and usually arises from the epithelium (layer of cells) lining the inside of the large intestine.
Colonic Polyp
Colonic polyps are small mushroom-shaped growths found in the mucosa of the colon. They are usually benign but can be cancerous.
Colonoscope
A colonoscope is a thin, flexible tube used to take pictures of the colon and rectum during a colonoscopy. It also has the ability to snip off polyps and tissue samples.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is a common procedure that allows examination of the inner surface of the colon (large intestine) by means of a colonoscope; a flexible, tubular instrument that has a special light at its end and an equipment channel in the centre.
Colostomy
A colostomy is a surgical procedure to connect part of the colon to the anterior abdominal wall to allow the bowels to drain through the openening, referred to as a stoma.
Colostrum
Colostrum refers to the type of breastmilk a woman produces in the first few days after childbirth. Colostrum has a different nutritional content from breastmilk produced later after child birth. Colostrum contains higher concentrations of Vitamins A and B and less fat than the breastmilk a woman produces when the infant passes 7-14 days of age.
Colour vision test
A colour vision test is a test which assesses the individual's ability to distinguish different colours. It typically involves the individual identifying the colour of a series of different coloured dots.
colp
Colposcope
A colposcope functions as a binocular microscope and is used to identify visible clues suggestive of abnormal tissue in a PAP smear.
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a procedure that involves staining the cells of the cervix and inspecting at a magnification using a colposcope. It is used when performed a PAP smear.
Combination Therapy
Combination Therapy. is a method of treating disease through the simultaneous use of a variety of drugs to eliminate or control the biochemical cause of the disease. Combination therapy often helps obtain more effective results.
Comedo
An acne lesion - a comedo is a sebaceous follicle plugged with sebum, dead cells from inside the sebaceous follicle, hairs, and sometimes bacteria.
Eating to deal with stress, anxiety, boredom, loneliness or unhappiness. Comfort foods are foods that evoke a psychologically comfortable and pleasurable state when they are eaten.
Common cold
The common cold is an infection of the nasal passages and pharynx, usually causing malaise (feeling generally unwell), tiredness, a sore and runny nose, a sore throat, sneezing, and a slight fever.60% of common colds are caused by rhinoviruses. The rest occur due to infection by coronavirus, influenza viruses, parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, and enterovirus. In addition, the bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae may cause common cold symptoms.
Common Migraine
Common migraines are generally not preceded by an aura. The headache lasts from around 4-72 hours, and is pulsating and unilateral. Nausea and vomiting, photophobia (pain from bright light) and phonophobia (pain from noise) may occur.
Community Based Health Program
Community based health programs are based within a specific community, usually a community identified as having a high risk of a particular condition (e.g. STIs). Community based programs typically aim to involve the target group in program planning and design, and empower them to gain greater control over their health.
Complementary medicine is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Complementary medicine is used together with conventional medicine. Learn more about integrative oncology.
Complete remission
Complete remission typically refers to the abscence of cancer clinically (i.e. tumour markers returned to baseline; no evidence on imaging etc) following treatment.
Composite Resin
Composite resin is a 'tooth-coloured' dental filling material.
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) refers to a number of eye-related symptoms experienced as a result of performing close-up work with computers. These symptoms include eye strain, tired eyes, dry eyes, irritation, burning sensation, redness, blurred vision, and double vision.
Concentric Muscle Contraction
Concentric muscle contractions involve the shortening of the muscle as the joint angle is decreased. For example the upwards motion of a free weight during a bicep curl is a concentric contraction, the elbow joint angle is decreasing as the weight is lifted.
Conception
Conception occurs when an ovum has been relased during ovulation and is fertilised by a sperm in the ampulla of the fallopian tubes. In a natural conception, the fertilised egg (now called a zygote) implants in the wall of the uterus approximately 6 days after fertilization. In the early stages of development, it is called an embryo and later a foetus.
A condom is a sheath or cover over the penis or vagina to prevent pregnancy and infection during intercourse.
Conduct disorder
A disorder that begins in childhood and is characterized by aggression and violations of the rights of others, including bullying and threatening other people
Conductive deafness
Conductive deafness occurs when sound waves are not properly conducted through the external and middle portions of the ear to set the fluid in the inner ear in motion.
Cones cells
Photoreceptor cone cells are cells in the eyes which sense bright light and are important for seeing in daylight.
Congenital
Congenital conditions are conditions which are present in a baby at birth.
Congenital and juvenile glaucoma
Congenital and juvenile glaucoma refers to the type of glaucoma that occurs in babies or children. These childhood glaucoma diseases may be present at birth if congenital or develop in the juvenile period of life, following infection, eye trauma or eye cancer.
Congenital erythropoietic porphyria
Congenital erythropoietic porphyria is a condition where haemoglobin does not form properly.
Congenital torticollis
Congenital torticollis is a condition that is present in some babies at birth. A muscle in the neck is shortened which causes their head to be tilted to the side. Often congenital torticollis can be successfully treated with physical therapy.
If a woman contracts chickenpox (varicella) when pregnant her child will have a 2% chance of developing congenital varicella syndrome which can have serious consequences for the baby including: neurologic abnormalities, visual defects, increased risk of developing herpes zoster during infancy or childhood, hypoplastic limbs and skin scarring.
Congestive heart failure is present when the heart cannot pump enough blood to satisfy the needs of the body. Weakened chambers allow blood to pool inside the heart and nearby veins. This triggers fluid retention, particularly in the lungs, legs and abdomen.
Conjunctiva
Conjunctiva (pl. conjunctivae) refers to the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. It forms the lining of the space between the inner surface of the eyelid and the anterior surface of the eye lateral to the cornea. It is a mucous membrane that is thin and transparent. It contains many goblet cells which secrete a component of the tears that bathe the eye.
Conjunctival Haemorrhage
Conjunctival haemorrhage refers to bleeding of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the eyeball.
Conjunctival Hyperaemia
Conjunctival hyperaemia is a condition in which there is excessive blood in the conjunctiva, or the mucous membrane covering the eyeball.
Conjunctival Scraping
Conjunctival scraping is a test in which a small amount of topicallocal anaesthetic is dropped into the eye, and the inner surface of the eyelid is carefully scraped and the contents examined with a microscope.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an infection of the conjunctiva (the outer-most layer of the eye that covers the sclera).
Connective tissue
Connective tissue is one of four types of traditionally classified tissues, generally involved in structure and support.
Constipation
Constipation refers to a reduction in the frequency of bowel motions (often to less than three stools per week) or an increased difficulty passing stools. It often results due to an abnormality in the structure or function of the large intestine.
Contact transmission
Contact transmission refers to infection that is spread through direct or indirect contact with an infected person. For example spread of the common cold may occur when people infected with the cold viruses touch their mouth, nose or eyes (mucous membranes) or cough or sneeze into their hands, before touching someone else (direct contact transmission) or touching a common surface (indirect contact transmission).
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a device that blows air into the respiratory tract in orer to aid ventilation. It is most commonly used at night by people who experience obstructive-sleep disordered breathing (OSDB) to stop their airways from narrowing and stopping breathing.
Contraception
Contraception refers to methods of pregnancy prevention.
Contraceptive implant
A contraceptive implant is a hormone releasing device which is surgically inserted under the skin of a woman's upper arm. From there is releases hormones which prevent ovulation and pregnancy.
Contraceptive patch
A contraceptive patch is a contraceptive device which is adhered to the skin like a bandaid. Once applied the patch releases hormones into the blood stream and in doing so prevents ovulation and pregnancy.
Contractions in labour
Contractions in labour are regular, rhythmical feelings of pain in the abdomen or back, and tightening of the uterus (womb), which cause the cervix (neck of the womb) to become shorter (effacement), then dilate (open).
Contracture
Contractures involve the shortening of connective tissue or a muscle, causing deformity of the joint. Contractures occur as a result of stress on the muscle.
In the field of medicine, a contraindication is a factor – for example, a pre-existing medical condition or another medication being used – which increases the risk of of a particular treatment. Treatments are not usually administered if there are contraindications.
Contrast Dye
A Contrast Dye is a substance that, when injected into the blood stream, highlights certain features on a scan that would otherwise be unclear. The type of contrast used varies depending on what needs to be highlighted and the type of investigation. Contrast dye is used in X-Rays, CT Scans, MRI scans and some other investigations.
Contusion
Contusion is a medical term for bruising.
Conventional antipsychotic
Antipsychotics are used to sedate or calm patients in the short-term. Conventional antipsychotics, as opposed to unconventional or atypical antipsychotics, were developed before unconventional antipsychotics and work through other neurotransmitters like serotonin (also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine) instead of dopamine.
Convulsions
Convulsions are symptoms of abnormal brain function.
Copal Varnish
Copal varnish is a substancethat is useful for treating dentine hypersensitivity. It covers the dentine surface and thus closes the dentine tubes, which can cause pain when open.
Copaxone is the brand name for a drug called glatiramer acetate. Copaxone is a once daily injection medication used to treat relapsing and remitting forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a disease of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) that can lead to several disabling neurological problems. Copaxone is a well tolerated drug that reduces the frequency of relapses of neurological symptoms in these patients.
Copper intrauterine device (Copper IUD)
The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is the older, original form of intrauterine contraceptive devices which is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It consists of a polyethylene plastic T shaped frame with copper wire coiled around the stem and arms. It also has a plastic monofilament thread attached at the end of the stem which hangs from the cervix into the vagina and assists in placement and removal. The copper contained within the IUD is toxic to sperm and thus prevents fertilisation of the egg.
The coracohumeral ligament is the only shoulder ligament that is located superiorly (at the top) running from the coracoid process through the joint capsule and inserting into the humerus at the lesser and greater tuberosities. The coracohumeral ligament helps to support the weight of the arm and provides the strong thickening of the capsule.
Projecting from the anterior (front) of the shoulder blade is the coracoid process which is a bony prominence which serves as the connection point for the ligaments that connect the scapula and clavicle. In addition, the coracoacromial ligament runs from the coracoid to the acromion, the three structures together forming the coracoacromial arch. Some muscles also attach to the coracoid process.
Core biopsy is a way of sampling the cells in a suspicious lump or mass. It is sometimes used instead of Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy, or vice versa. Core biopsy involves making a small incision (cut) in the skin. A large needle is then passed through this incision and several narrow samples of the tissue to be investigated (such as a lump) are taken.
Core Stability
Core Stability refers to the strength, power and function control of the body's core. The core is referred to as the abdominal region; including hips, pelvis, lower back and stomach. This area is very important in balance and movement of the body. Increasing core stability is an important part of any exercise regime as a strong core will prevent injury and improves sporting performance.
Corium
The corium is the fibrous inner layer of the skin just beneath the epithelium.
Cornea
The cornea allows light to enter the eye, and is the transparent region of the modified sclera. It is part of both the tunica fibrosa as well as the optical components of the eye.
Corneal abrasion
Corneal abrasion refers to an abrasion on the cornea, or the coating that covers the back section of the eyeball.
Corneal Deposits
Corneal deposits are white, arc-shaped deposits visible in the cornea, the coating on the back of the eyeball.
Corneal Oedema
Corneal oedema refers to excessive fluid in the cornea, the coating on the back of the eyeball.
Corneal Striae
Corneal striae are lines on the cornea that occur as a result of the stretching and rupture of elastic fibres, similar to the stretch marks a pregnant woman may get on her stomach.
Corneal ulcer
A corneal ulcer, or ulcerative keratitis, is an inflammatory or more seriously, infective condition of the cornea involving disruption of its epithelial layer with involvement of the corneal stroma.
Corona
The corona is the crown-like upper part of any body organ, for example the glans of the penis.
Corona Radiata
The corona radiata refers to the layer of follicular cells that covers the oocyte (egg) and its zona pellucida.
Coronal groove
The coronal groove is the tight groove in the penis which separates the glans from the base
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)/ Heart Bypass Surgery
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is a type of heart surgery used to treat ischaemic heart disease. Ischaemic heart disease is characterised by atherosclerosis and blockage of the coronary arteries (the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle). CABG surgery attaches new and healthy vessels from the inner leg, wrist or inner chest, to the coronary arteries at a site beyond the blockage. This allows the blockage to be bypassed and blood to get to the rest of the heart muscle. CABG therefore treats and prevents angina and heart attacks.
Coronary Heart Disease
Coronary Heart Disease is a disease of the main blood vessels that supply they heart. Usually it is caused by atherosclerosis of the vessels, where the plaque builds up to the point where it stops blood from flowing as well as it should. This can lead to angina or a heart attack.
Corpus albicans
The corpus albicans is an avascular scar formed as a result of the regression of the corpus luteum.
Corpus luteum
The formation of the corpus luteum structure takes place after ovulation, primarily due to the activity of LH. The granulosa cells undergo what is known as luteinisation. These luteinised granulosa cells as well as theca cells, capillaries and connective tissue form the corpus luteum. This is responsible for the production of large amounts of oestrogen and progesterone and has a lifespan of approximately 14 days, unless pregnancy occurs.
Corrugator Supercilii Muscle
The Corrugator supercilii is a muscle in the face. When contracted, it causes the brow to wrinkle.
Cortical Cataract
Cortical cataracts are a type of cataract most commonly seen in individuals with diabetes. They begin growing on the outside of the eye's lens and work their way inwards.
Cortical cataracts
Cortical cataracts involve the outer layer of the lens and are often associated with childhood cataracts.
Cortical organisation is the way the brain is functionally structured or organised.
Corticosteroid (hormone)
Corticisteroid is produced by the adrenal cortex and is classified as a steroidal hormone. It is responsible in regulating many response systems in the body, such as stress, inflammation, immune and metabolic reaction.
Corticosteroid (medication)
Corticosteroids are a class of drugs used to treat a range of inflammatory conditions and disorders of the immune system. They work by suppressing the inflammatory response and the immune system. They are used in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease and lupus.
Corticosteroids are not to be confused with anabolic steroids, which are used to increase body mass.
Corticotrophin Releasing Factor (CRF)
Corticotrophin Releasing Factor (CRF) is a hormone that is released from the hypothalamus in response to stress.
Cortisol
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland in response to stress. Its main function is to increase the level of glucose in the blood. It also suppresses the immune system.
Cosmetic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery refers to any surgical procedure undertaken to reshape and change the appearance of a body part, with the primary aim of changing appearance for aesthetic rather than medical reasons. Cosmetic surgery procedures may change the structure, position, colour or texture of a body part or feature.
Cosopt is used to lower raised pressure in the eye and to treat glaucoma.
Cost-effectiveness
The cost-effectiveness of a treatment is a determination of how well the treatment works relative to the cost associated with it. If a drug only reduces some symptoms of a condition, has many side-effects and costs a lot of money it is said to be not very cost-effective. However if a treatment is very expensive yet it completely cures a condition the money spent is worth the benefits and the treatment is said to be very cost-effective.
Counter-conditioning/aversion
Counter-conditioning/aversion is a technique used to discourage negative behaviours. The concept is to pair an aversive stimulus with a negative behaviour so eventually that behaviour will be avoided. One example is trying to stop a child from sucking their thumb; by putting a foul tasting nailpolish on their fingers everytime they suck their thumb they will have a horrible taste in their mouth. After they have experienced this taste a number of times they will avoid it and not suck their thumb. Eventually they will stop the behaviour all together and the nailpolish will be unnecessary. This is a technique involved in behaviour therapy.
Coversyl
Coversyl belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE Inhibitors), and it is used to lower blood pressure. Coversyl is also used with other drugs in the treatment in patients with heart failure.
C-peptide
C-peptide is a “connecting” peptide that is formed when proinsulin splits into insulin and C-peptide. C-peptide has many beneficial effects in the body one such as reducing the intensity of symptoms associated with diabetes.
CR - Complete response, complete remission
The disappearance of all detectable signs of cancer.
Cranial nerve palsies
Cranial nerve palsies is paralysis of the cranial nerves. The nerves that innervate certain types of the face will not provide the sensory or motor information to the brain and the area will feel "numb" and not able to move.
Craniocervical
The craniocervical region is the immediate area surrounding the junction between the skull and neck.
Cranio-Pharyngeal Pouch
The cranio-pharyngeal pouch is where the skull meets the pharynx.
Creatine phosphokinase (also known as creatine kinase or phospho-creatine kinase) is a chemical normally found in the muscle fibres. It is released into the bloodstream when the muscles undergo damage and breakdown, which may be seen in burns patients if muscle is damaged.
Creatinine
Creatinine is a waste product that is found in the bloodstream after muscle activity and breakdown. Creatinine is filtered by the kidneys and it’s levels are used to calculate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
Crestor
Crestor is a drug used for treatment of high blood cholesterol (a type of fat) level. It is used when exercise and changes to diet are not enough on their own to control and manage this condition.
Cretinism
Cretinism is a congenital condition which causes severe hypothyroidism, that is a severe lack of thyroid hormones from birth. It is caused by maternal hypothyroidism (hypothyroidism in a pregnant woman which affects her foetus) and can result in retarded mental or physical development. Cretinism which retards mental development is known as neurological cretinism, whereas that which affects physical development is known as myxoedymateous cretinism.
Cricoarytenoid Muscles
The cricoarytenoid muscles are found in the voice box or larynx, and function to open and close the vocal cords. The posterior cricoarytenoid muscle is responsible for opening or widening the vocal cords, while the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is responsible for shortening or closing the vocal cords.
Critical Drug Dose
A critical drug dose is the optimum safe and efficacious dose of the drug for an individual; this dose could vary widely between different people due to differences in pharmacokinetics. This dose is determined by a method called titration.
Critical Limb Ischaemia
Critical limb ischaemia is a condition in which the blood flow to a limb is obstructed. The obstruction in some cases can be so severe that wounds form which do not heal and gangrene can occur in the affected limb. Patients that have been treated with SCS for critical limb ischaemia have reported an increased health-related quality of life; experiencing improved pain relief, limb survival and an initial reduction in the need for the use of analgesics.
Crohn's disease
A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes thickening and scarring to the intestinal wall, characterised by abdominal pain, ulceration and fibrous tissue buildup
Crohn's disease
A chronic inflammatory bowel disease which causes thickening and scarring of the intestinal wall, characterised by abdominal pain, ulceration and fibrous tissue buildup
Cross-training is performing different modes of exercise to the usual mode of exercise. For example a swimmer may cross-train one or two days a week and lift weights or go for a run.
Croup
Croup is a syndrome, which is a collection of symptoms and signs that consists of hoarse voice, harsh barking cough and an inspiratory stridor (a high pitched noice made with inspiration). The most common cause of croup is viral laryngotracheobronchitis.
Crown (Tooth)
The crown of a tooth refers to the visible part of the tooth. The crown is the surface that allows for food to break down when opposing teeth are brought together while chewing.
C-reactive protein is one type of protein found in human blood. Its levels increase when the body experiences inflammatory conditions and thus increased c-reactive protein levels indicates inflammation.
CRu - Complete remission unconfirmed
The patient has achieved at least partial remission but there are residual abnormalities of uncertain significance on imaging (such as CT).
Crusting
A hard outer layer or covering. Often formed by dried secretions or pus on the outside of a blister / skin lesion.
Cryopreservation
Cryopreservation is a procedure in which cells or tissues are preserved by freezing at very low temperatures.
Cryotherapy is a relatively new treatment available for prostate cancer. It is a quick and safe surgical procedure that involves inserting small freezing needles into the prostate gland using ultrasound guidance. The treatment essentially works by freezing the cancer cells. However, the remaining prostate gland and surrounding structures are also vulnerable to freezing which can lead to side effects such as impotence.
CT angiograms are a type of imaging that uses x-rays to visualise the blood flow in the arteries and veins in the body. Iodine may be injected into the vessels, to help visualise the blood flow. This can be used to view arteries running to the brain or lungs. CAD can help analyse CT angiograms.
A CT scan is a sophisticated radiological scan which produces higher quality images compared to standard X-rays. Computed Axial Tomography (CAT or CT) scanning uses a large number of X-Ray images taken in rapid succession around a single axial rotation point. This allows 2 dimensional X-Ray images to be converted into 3 dimensional constructions of the internal organs. The CT "slices" can be manipulated using computer softwares to view specific structures more clearly.
Curative surgery
Curative surgery is performed to remove cancers from the body. This is particularly useful when the cancerous tumour is confined to a specific part of the body and have not spread/metastasised to other areas. Curative surgery is the primary treatment in many cancers. It can be preceded by neo-adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy (done before the surgery) or followed by adjuvant therapy (after the surgery). Radiation therapy can also be used during an operation (intraoperative radiation therapy).
Curing lights
Curing lights are used to activate certain materials such as hydrogen peroxide, or composites.
Curing tobacco
Tobacco curing is a process necessary in order to prepare the tobacco leaves for consuming. Curing dries out the tobacco ready for processing. It involves hanging up the tobacco plant or lying it down and drying it. During this process the starch in the leaves are converted to sugar and the plant will change colour and texture. Tobacco plants are cured in different ways to achieve different textures and flavours of the tobacco.
Cushing's Syndrome is a disorder where there is too much corticosteroid hormone being released. This can lead to a wide variety of different symptoms.
Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma
Cutaneous malignant melanomas are highly malignant skin cancers which metastasise to distant organs in short periods of time.
Cuticle
The cuticle refers to a layer of mostly dead cells on the proximal nail fold sealing the cul-de-sac of the nail.
Cyanoacrylate
Cyanoacrylate is an adhesive substance used in industry and medicine.
Cyclic AMP
Cyclic AMP is a substance that acts on cells to help regulate many metabolic processes and the effects of many hormones. Actions of bronchodilator drugs such as xanthines allow an increase in cyclic AMP, to counteract the inflammatory effects occurring in the later stages of asthma.
Cycloblastin
Cycloblastin is drug used to treat various cancerous dieases, disorders of the immune system and transplant rejection.
Cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2)
Cyclooxygenase is an enzyme that is vital in the production of prostaglandins. It comes in two forms, COX-1 and COX-2 and some drugs specifically target COX-2 meaning that they have less side-effects on the kidneys and gastrointestinal system.
Cyclosporin
Cyclosporin is a medication used to treat individuals receiving organ or tissue transplants, to prevent their bodies rejecting the transplanted organ or tissues. When a person has an organ or tissue transplanted, their body recognises it as a foreign substance and produces antibodies that aim to eliminate the new tissue or organ. Cyclosporin prevents this antibody response, thus making it more likely that the body will accept the transplanted organ or tissue.
A cyst is a collection of fluid, that can occur in the the breast and in other areas of the body. Cysts are harmless; they do not cause cancer and are not indicative of cancer. They are thought to occur due to hormone changes during menstruation or hormone replacement.
Cysteine is an amino acid which facilitates the synthesis of proteins in DNA replication.
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis is a recessive genetic disorder that affects the mucus lining of the lungs, which leads to breathing problems and other health problems.
Cystitis
Cystitis is an infection of the bladder that almost always follows (is secondary to) bacterial infection in the urine. It is the most common type of urinary tract infection (UTI), particularly in women.
Cystoid macular oedema
Cystoid macular oedema, when present causes cyst-like (cystoid) areas of fluid to appear at the macula region on the retina. This causes retinal swelling and oedema and this may cause blurred or decreased central vision.
Cytochrome P450 enzymes
Cytochrome P450 enzymes (or CYP450) is an enormous and varied superfamily of hemoproteins. Human CYP450s metabolise thousands and thousands of substances, either found residing in the body or from the outside environment. These enzymes can be found in many organs in the human body; the most studied being the liver CYP450 enzymes which are involved in metabolising toxic compounds and drugs.
Cytotoxic agent
A drug or chemical which is toxic to living cells
Cytotoxic oedema
Cytotoxic oedema is an abnormally large amount of fluid in the brain which is frequently associated with head injury.
Cytotoxic T Cell
Cytotoxic T Cells are a type of T Cell that can latch onto and destroy those cells of the body that are either infected by a virus or otherwised damaged (such as in cancer).
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