Medical dictionary

What is iron deficiency? Iron is an important mineral that the human body requires, particularly for processes involving oxygen. The principal biological use of iron in humans is as a constituent of haemoglobin – the protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen. Haemoglobin enables the red blood cells to transport oxygen around the body and deliver it to the cells that need it. I

What are iron metabolism disorders? Iron metabolism disorders are a group of conditions which involve an excess or deficiency of iron in the body. Iron is vital to the production of red blood cells and therefore is key to survival, but an excess of iron can cause cell damage due to oxidative stress. Proper regulation of the levels of iron in your body is therefore important. The most common

What is irritable bowel syndrome?Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the large intestine.What are the symptoms?IBS is characterised by abnormal movements in the muscles of the intestine, which cause discomfort and abnormal function, as well as constipation and diarrhoea alternately. IBS can also provoke abdominal pain, gas, bloating and changes in bowel habits.What are

What is ischaemia? Ischaemia is what happens when there is a decrease in blood supply to tissues, leading to a decrease in oxygen and nutrients to the affected area. A shortage of blood and oxygen can lead to serious consequences on the affected tissues, which can eventually become necrotic. Ischaemia can occur in any part of the body; however, the most commonly affected areas are the heart, br

Why perform the analysis? The analysis of ischaemia-modified Albumin serves a crucial role in understanding ischemic conditions within the body. By measuring alterations in albumin due to ischaemia, healthcare professionals can gain insights into potential cardiovascular issues and assess the impact of ischemic events. When should the test be performed? Optimal timing for the ischaemi

What is iStent? iStent is a treatment for glaucoma provided by eye specialists, or ophthalmologists. The iStent is a microscopic implant that allows the drainage of channels in the eye to reduce eye pressure in patients with glaucoma. Having the iStent inserted can reduce the need to use glaucoma eye drops for patients. However, iStent cannot reverse the damage already caused

What is pruritus ani (itchy bottom)?   Pruritis ani is the medical term for an itchy bottom or irritation of the skin around the anus (“pruritis” refers to itching sensations of the skin).  There are two main types of anal itching:  Primary anal itching (idiopathic): has no underlying cause, and is the most common type.  Secondary anal itching: pr

What is IVUS?An intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a medical imaging technique used to assess the overall state of the coronary arteries by evaluating the images generated by an ultrasound transducer. It is particularly suitable to look at the blood vessels, to see if there are any potential atherosclerosis plaques or to determine if a stenting procedure was successful. What does IVUS involve

What is being analysed? The JAK2 mutation test is a diagnostic test used to detect mutations in the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) gene. This gene encodes a protein involved in signalling pathways that regulate blood cell production. Mutations in the JAK2 gene are commonly associated with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), such as polycythaemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, and primary myelofibrosi