Medical science, drawn into focus.

Hyperthyroidism (Thyrotoxicosis)

Overview The most common cause of hyperthyroidism are Graves disease, multinodular goitre, an autonomously functioning thyroid nodule  (adenoma) and subacute thyroiditis. Graves Disease is more common in women. Multinodular goitre is more common in the elderly. Graves disease typically manifests in middle aged women. Thyroid diseases are more common in women. Hyperthyroidism: denote conditions in which…

Guillain–Barré Syndrome

Overview Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute, immune-mediated polyneuropathy typically triggered by a preceding gastrointestinal or respiratory infection. It is characterised by an autoimmune attack on the peripheral nerves, leading to mainly demyelination but also axonal degeneration, which impairs nerve conduction and causes muscle weakness and paralysis. GBS affects about 1–2 per 100,000 people annually.…

Urinary Tract Infection

Overview Infection of the urinary tract is common and more so in women (due to shorter urethra and hormonal changes). UTIs may be classified as either a lower (Cystitis, urethritis and Prostatitis) or upper UTI (pyelonephritis). The main causative agents are bacteria such as E-coli. A lower UTI can progress to an upper UTI causing systemic symptoms…

Chronic Kidney Disease

Overview CKD is responsible for a substantial burden of illness and premature death. The kidneys are basically not working as good. Always assume a ↓ eGFR represents acute kidney injury until proven otherwise. Acute Kidney Injury: Rapid reduction in kidney function over hours to days, as measured by serum urea and creatinine and leading to a…

Nephrotic Syndrome

Overview Nephrotic syndrome is a relatively rare but important manifestation of kidney disease.Nephrotic syndrome classically presents with heavy proteinuria , minimal hematuria, hypoalbuminemia, hypercholesterolemia, edema , and hypertension. In general, all patients with hypercholesterolemia secondary to nephrotic syndrome should be treated with lipid-lowering agents because they are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Nephrotic syndrome…

Major Depressive Disorder

DSM V categorise these as seperate disorders Depressive disorders Bipolar disorders Anxiety disorders Depressive Disorders Major depressive disorder Other depressive disorder Persistent Depressive Disorder Substance/medication induced depression disorder Depressive disorder due to another medical condition Overview Depressive disorders are typically characterised by persistent low mood, loss of interest and enjoyment, neurovegetative disturbance, and reduced energy,…

Hypertension

Summary of Hypertension Hypertension can be divided into primary (essential) and secondary hypertension (a result of an underlying condition, ie. renal artery stenosis). It is important to identify wether this is an underlying cause of the hypertension based on history, risk factors and by ordering appropriate tests. Untreated, undiagnosed and poor compliancy can result in…

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