Medical dictionary

What is patch testing?      Patch testing, sometimes referred to as epicutaneous skin testing, is a test used to find out what allergen is causing inflammation upon skin contact.                                      What does patch testing involve? &nb

What is it?Kneecap dislocation is a common injury in teenagers between 14 and 17 years old, especially among the athletic population. The kneecap (patella) is displaced from its natural position within the patello-femural joint, being forced away from the midline. Kneecap dislocation often leads to ligaments and cartilage damage. It is important to make the distinction between kneecap disloca

What is patellar tendonitis? The patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the tibia, works with the muscles in the front of the thigh to extend the knee and allow running, jumping, walking, etc. Patellar tendonitis (also known as jumper's knee) is when this tendon is injured or overloaded. This condition is more common in athletes whose sport involves frequent jumping, such as bask

What is it? The patent foramen ovale (PFO), also known by its colloquial name of “hole in the heart”, is a cardiac defect consisting in a small hole in the cardiac muscle, located between the right and left upper chamber (atria) of the heart. PFO is normal in babies when they are still in the womb, because a baby’s lungs are not working yet and that small hole allows blood to circulate b

What is analysed? The PCA3 (prostate cancer antigen 3) gene is a gene that encodes a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) molecule found in prostate cells. PCA3 is very expressed (active) in prostate cancer cells compared to normal prostate tissue. The PCA3 test measures the level of PCA3 mRNA in prostate cells collected from a urine sample. The PCA3 gene's specificity for prostate cancer cells

What are pearly penile papules? Pearly penile papules (PPPs), also known as genital angiofibroma or histoid papilloma, are benign, small growths occurring in clusters or rows on the head of the penis. Typically, they are flesh-coloured or white and look like pimples, but the size and colour can vary depending on the individual.       Are pearly penile papul

What is skin peeling? Peeling is a type of cosmetic treatment aimed at rejuvenating and improving the skin’s appearance. Skin peeling employs the use of certain enzymes and acids in order to exfoliate the skin, revealing the fresher, clearer, and more youthful skin beneath the surface. By removing dead skin cells and minimising the appearance of open pores, skin peeling greatly improves t

What is pelvic congestion syndrome? Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a chronic condition in women that causes a persistent dull pain in the pelvic area. It is thought to be caused by varicose-type veins that have developed in the pelvic area. It is these dilated ovarian and pelvic veins that are thought to contribute to chronic pelvic pain in some women. Prognosis of pelvic congestion

What is pelvic exenteration surgery? Pelvic exenteration surgery, also known as a pelvic clearance, is an operation to remove the internal reproductive organs from the pelvic region. These may include: The womb The ovaries The cervix The vagina Depending on the type of exenteration surgery, a doctor may also decide to remove the bladder, the rectum and the lower bowel.