Medical dictionary

What is the postoperative physiotherapy of breast cancer? After any surgery, it is important to do exercises to help the body return to full functionality. In many cases, the doctor may recommend that the patient see a physiotherapist. Breast cancer surgery is no different. Whether the patient has had a breast biopsy, a lumpectomy, a mastectomy, lymph node removal, breast reconstruction,

What are haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen veins in the anus or lower part of the rectum. They occur when the small veins that line the anal canal (the tube that connects the rectum and the anus) become engorged with more blood than usual. Together with overlying tissue, they form one or more swollen lumps (piles).  We are all born with haemorrhoids,

What is the pineal gland?The pineal gland is a small endocrine gland found deep in the middle of the brain, specifically in the epithalamus. It is shaped like a small pinecone, about 5-8 millimetres in size and weighs about 150 milligrams. It typically grows until you are around two years old, although its weight increases until adolescence. Interestingly, the pineal gland is outside the bloo

What is pinnaplasty? Ear correction surgery, where the ears are pinned back, is known as pinnaplasty or otoplasty. The cosmetic surgery procedure is used to change the shape of the ears, or to pin them back if they stick out. It is usually carried out on children and teenagers, but some adults may opt to have the procedure, too. Children under the age of five are unable

What does the pituitary gland do? The Pituitary gland is located in the brain and is often considered the ‘master gland’ because it secretes many hormones that regulate the release of hormones from the other glands. It releases growth hormone and other hormones which regulate the function of the thyroid gland, adrenal gland, testes and ovaries. The h

What is the pituitary? The pituitary is a gland located in the head that produces a number of hormones. These hormones help regulate the rest of the body and act as “slow-acting messengers” delivered to other parts of the body via the blood stream. The pituitary is located behind the eyes and immediately under the brain. If it grows, it can start to push on the optic nerve, which

What is plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia by overloading or stretching. The plantar fascia is a thick ligament in the sole of the foot which connects the heel with the toes. This inflammation causes pain as you walk about, usually first thing in the morning, which flares up when standing after sitting for a long period. An orthopaedic special

What is being analysed here? Plasma metanephrines is being analysed here. They are substances measured in the blood. These are metabolites of catecholamines, such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine). Catecholamines are produced in the adrenal medulla and also by cells in the sympathetic nervous system. These hormones play a crucial role in stress response and the r

What is analysed in a platelet count? The platelet count measures the quantity of platelets in a blood sample. Platelets are small blood cells crucial for clotting. What does the result mean? Normal Range: Platelet counts typically fall between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets per microliter (μL) of blood. Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia): Fewer than 150,000 platelets/μL may i