Medical science, drawn into focus.

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)…

Anorectal Disease

Overview Anorectal conditions are a common presentation in the primary care setting. A history and physical examination usually will determine the etiology. Physical examination includes visual inspection, digital rectal examination, and anoscopy Anal Fissure More info on   Anal fissures Anal Abscess More info on  Anal Abscess Haemorrhoids More info on  Haemorrhoids Other anorectal disease…

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (Spring Fever)

Overview Henoch Schonlein Purpura is a IgA vasculitis characterised by the Tetrad: palpable purpuric petechial rash, abdominal pain, kidney involvement and arthralgia. Aetiology is unknown but thought to have a genetic predisposition. Clinical Manifestation Henoch Schonlein Purpura Tetrad Palpable purpuric petechial rash, abdominal pain, kidney involvement and arthralgia. Recent mucosal infection (respiratory or gastrointestinal) Rash…

Cryoglobulinaemic Vasculitis

Overview Cryoglobulinaemic vasculitis is an immune complex–mediated small to medium vessel vasculitis caused by circulating cryoglobulins—immunoglobulins that precipitate below 37 °C and redissolve on warming. These immune complexes deposit in vessel walls, activate complement (typically with marked C4 consumption), and drive leukocytoclastic vasculitis. “Mixed” CV (types II and III) is most often linked to hepatitis…

Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome

Overview Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is a rare autoimmune disorder of the presynaptic neuromuscular junction. It causes impaired acetylcholine release, producing the characteristic triad of proximal muscle weakness, reduced reflexes and autonomic dysfunction. LEMS may occur as a paraneoplastic syndrome—most commonly associated with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC)—or as a non-tumour-associated autoimmune disorder.  Neuromuscular junction: connection…

Peripheral Arterial Disease (Chronic Lower Limb Ischaemia)

 Overview Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): Ratio of ankle to brachial systolic blood pressure, determined using Doppler ultrasound flow. Claudication: Pain, ache, or cramp in muscles that increases with walking or leg exertion in a predictable manner and resolves with rest. Peripheral arterial disease: Atherosclerosis leading to narrowing of the major arteries distal to the aortic arch.…

Febrile Seizure

Overview Seizures are a common occurrence in children. 8% will have at least one seizure by 15 years of age. A seizure is the result of an abnormal paroxysmal discharge by cerebral neurons. Many underlying conditions and neurological challenges may provoke seizures, and in over 50% of children seizures are isolated events associated with either a fever…

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