Medical dictionary

What is leukaemia? Leukaemia is a group of cancers of the white blood cells. It usually begins in the bone marrow (the spongy centre of our bones), where blood cells are made. Normally, stem cells in the bone marrow mature into different sorts of blood cells (red, white and platelets) in a regulated manner. Different types of leukaemia affect the bone marrow in different ways, but all result

What is analysed? The leukocyte formula, also known as the white blood cell differential count, analyses the proportion of different types of white blood cells present in the blood sample. How is it used? The leukocyte formula provides valuable information about the immune system's status and helps diagnose various infections, inflammatory conditions, and haematological disorders.

What is analysed? Levetiracetam analysis involves measuring the levels of levetiracetam, an antiepileptic medication, in the blood.   What does the result mean? The result indicates levetiracetam concentration in the bloodstream at the time of testing.   Why might a patient need this analysis? The analysis is performed to ensure therapeutic levels of levetiraceta

What does the term LGBTQ+ mean? LGBTQ+ is an abbreviation for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or other gender diverse identity. It used as an umbrella term to describe people with certain sexual orientations, gender identities or gender expressions.   Why are some members of the LGBTQ+ community affected by mental health is

What is lichen sclerosus? Lichen sclerosus is a rare chronic inflammatory skin disorder, also known as Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. It particularly affects the tissue of the genital area in both males and females. Dermatologists and urologists are the medical specialists that treat lichen sclerosus.     What are the symptoms of lichen s

What is lichen sclerosus in men? Lichen sclerosus is a rare autoimmune inflammatory disease, also known as Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus.   It is a skin and mucosae condition that affects particularly the tissue of the genital area in men and women. However, lichen sclerosus in men, also known as male genital lichen sclerosus, will often affect the foreskin and tip of the penis.

What are they? Lidocaine is an anti-inflammatory drug. It has an analgesic effect and, contrarily to other similar active ingredients, it lasts longer and starts working sooner (it takes roughly 20 minutes). Lidocaine acts on the neurons by blocking the transmission of the stimulus for pain. Once it starts wearing off, it is processed by the kidneys and expelled with urine. What are they

How is lifestyle medicine defined? Lifestyle medicine is a branch of medicine which aims to prevent, limit or reverse health problems where possible by improving a patient’s lifestyle, rather than by using medication or surgical treatment. It is an evidence-based branch of healthcare which is informed by research about how our lifestyles affect our overall health and our likelih

What is ligament reconstruction? Ligament reconstruction, also known as ligamentoplasty, is an endoscopic procedure for surgical tissue graft replacement of the anterior cruciate ligament, a ligament in the knee, often by grafting tissue harvested from your own body. Ensuring your knee is stabilised again The anterior cruciate ligament is located in the central part of your knee and it st