Medical science, drawn into focus.

Henoch–Schönlein Purpura (IgA Vasculitis)

Overview Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP), now termed IgA vasculitis, is the most common systemic vasculitis in children, characterised by IgA1-dominant immune complex deposition in small vessels, particularly affecting the skin, joints, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. It predominantly occurs in children aged 3–10 years, with a slight male predominance, and often follows an upper respiratory tract infection.…

Menopause

Overview The menopause means the final menstrual period – diagnosed retrospectively after one year of amenorrhoea. Cessation occurs due to loss of ovarian function. The “declining oocyte pool” theory states that a newborn girl is born with millions of eggs, most of which die by atresia. The average age of menopause is 50, however this can vary…

Hydatidiform Mole (Molar Pregnancy)

Overview Hydatidiform moles are part of a group of diseases falling under gestational trophoblastic disease. A hydatidiform mole refers to the abnormal growth of trophoblastic cells in the placenta, resulting in edematous placental villi that form hydatidiform structures. It is classified as either partial or complete, causing either abnormal foetal development (resulting in foetal demise)…

Rhinosinusitis

Overview Rhinosinusitis is one of the more prevalent chronic illnesses worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages. It is an inflammatory process that involves the nose and paranasal sinuses. Rhinosinusitis may be acute or chronic. Chronic rhinosinusitis can be subject to acute exacerbations. Rhinitis:  Irritation and inflammation of the mucosa lining the nasal cavity Sinusitis: Inflammation…

Acute Diabetes Complication (DKA, HHS, Hypoglycaemia)

Diabetic Ketoacidosis Ketoacidosis: A condition resulting from deficient insulin availability, leading to lipid oxidation and metabolism rather than glucose metabolism. The insulin absence results in free fatty acid (FFA) released from adipose tissue and in unregulated hepatic FFA oxidation and ketogenesis. Type I Diabetes:  Autoimmune disease where there is attack of beta cells of the…

Cushing's Disease

Overview Cushing's disease is a ACTH dependent syndrome characterised by excess corticosteroid production from the adrenal glands. It is ACTH dependent because it is triggered by an ACTH-secreting pituitary tumour. Cushing's syndrome is an over arching term to describe hypercortisolaemia dependent of independent of ACTH. Adrenal Cushing's syndrome is different because it is hypercortisolaemia independent…

Acute Coronary Syndrome

Overview Coronary artery obstruction or rupture can result in a variety of ischaemic condition which fall under the term of acute coronary syndrome. This does not include stable angina. Ischaemic heart disease is the leading cause of death world wide. The mortality of myocardial infarction is believed to be 45% with 70% of these deaths…

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