Medical dictionary

What is Lynch syndrome? Lynch syndrome, also known as HNPCC (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer), is an inherited disorder that increases the risk of many types of cancer, particularly cancers of the colon (large intestine) and rectum, which are collectively referred to as colorectal cancer. Patients with Lynch syndrome usually develop colorectal cancer before the age of 50. The cond

What is macroglossia?Macroglossia is the medical term used to describe an unusually large tongue. This usually occurs due to an increase in tissue, rather than a growth. It may also be referred to as giant tongue or enlarged tongue.  PrognosisMacroglossia is a rare disorder that is usually found in children. Sufferers of macroglossia can receive tongue reduction surgery and continue to l

What is macular degeneration?   Macular degeneration is a condition which affects the macula, the part of the eye that provides us with clear central vision. As we grow, its function loses its abilities, causing macular degeneration, also known as AMD.   It is a fairly common ailment from the age of sixty onwards and can occur at various levels, sometimes it is impe

What is a macular hole? A macular hole is a traction hole in the macula, which is the centre of the retina. The macular area of the retina is responsible for providing the high resolution required for everyday activities such as reading. There are two types of macular hole: lamellar macular holes do not affect the entire thickness of the retina, while full-thickness macular holes do. Th

What is macular oedema? Macular oedema is an eye disease that causes fluid to build up in the macula, the part of the eye that provides clear, sharp vision. As this is a very sensitive and important area of the eye, when this accumulation of fluid occurs, vision is lost and objects are observed in a distorted way. It may also affect only certain parts of the eye or the entire macular. It is a p

What is being analysed? Magnesium levels in the body are being analysed. This process involves measuring the concentration of magnesium ions in the blood. What does the result mean? The result of the analysis indicates the amount of magnesium present in the bloodstream. This information is essential for assessing overall health and identifying potential deficiencies or excesses. &

What is magnetic resonance angiography? Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a technique which is used to evaluate and study the blood vessels and identify any abnormalities. A powerful magnetic field and radio frequency waves are used to produce detailed images of the arteries in the body on a computer screen. MRAs can examine blood vessels in the brain, neck, heart, chest, legs and feet, a

What is magnetic therapy? Magnetic therapy (also called magnetic field therapy) is an alternative medical practice that uses static magnets to relieve symptoms of pain and health concerns, such as back pain.  What are the different types of magnetic field therapies? There are several different types, but the most common ones are: Static magnetic field therapy - a

What is magnetoencephalography? Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a medical test used to analyse brain activity by measuring the magnetic fields produced by electrical currents in the brain. It is arguably the most advanced method of recording and analysing a functioning brain, holding advantages over similar complementary techniques. Magnetoencephalography testing can measure brain activ