Medical science, drawn into focus.

Junctional Arrythmias

Overview Junctional rhythms occur when the AV node takes over as the primary pacemaker.  Junctional rhythm usually is associated with a benign course. Mechanism SA node has failed AV node just wants to be faster and takes over Enhanced automaticity in AV nodal cells AVNRT – Seperate condition  where a re-entry loop stimulates the AV node…

Meniscal Tear

Overview Medial and lateral knee joint menisci serve to transfer load and absorb shock, aid joint stability and provide lubrication. The meniscus is the most commonly injured structure in the knee joint. Acute tears occurs after axial loading combined with rotation. People may complain of a sensation of clicking or catching of the knee with…

Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Overview Hepatocellular carcinoma (also known as hepatoma ) is a primary cancer arising from hepatocytes in predominantly cirrhotic liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma is a leading cause of death worldwide, and cirrhosis is the main risk factor. Infection with hepatitis B and hepatitis C is the main cause of underlying liver disease. Prevention of chronic liver disease would greatly reduce…

Hydrocephalus

Overview Hydrocephalus is excessive accumulation of CSF in the cerebral ventricles. In children, look for increasing head circumference, increased intracranial pressure, a bulging fontanelle, scalp vein engorgement, and paralysis of upward gaze. The most common causes include: Congenital malformations Tumors Inflammation (i.e hemorrhage, meningitis). Treat the underlying cause, if possible; otherwise a surgical shunt is created…

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)

Overview Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune thrombophilia characterized by recurrent venous or arterial thromboses and/or pregnancy morbidity in the presence of persistent antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). APS may occur as a primary condition or secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Prevalence of aPL in the general population is ~2%, but true APS is rare…

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome (Subacromial Pain Syndrome)

Overview Shoulder impingement syndrome, now more commonly referred to as subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS) , is one of the most frequent causes of shoulder pain. It accounts for ~40–65% of shoulder complaints in primary care and sports medicine settings. It occurs due to mechanical compression of the rotator cuff tendons (most commonly supraspinatus) and subacromial…

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA)

Overview Knee osteoarthritis is a chronic, whole-joint disorder characterized by pain, stiffness, functional limitation and progressive structural change affecting cartilage, subchondral bone, synovium, menisci, ligaments and peri-articular muscles. Prevalence rises with age and obesity and contributes substantially to global disability; recent GBD analyses and reviews highlight knee OA as a leading cause of pain and…

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