Medical dictionary

What is children’s primary care? Primary care for children is the local healthcare that they receive from general practitioners (GPs), paediatricians, walk-in-centres, dentists, pharmacists and opticians. Primary health care providers provide the first point of contact in the healthcare system. The Children’s National Service Framework in the UK has set up the Child Health Promot

What is chin surgery (mentoplasty)? Chin surgery, also known as mentoplasty, genioplasty or chin augmentation, is a surgical intervention that aims to modify the size of the chin to achieve a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing face, correcting congenital facial asymmetries or those caused by an accident. Chin surgery can be done either by inserting an implant or by modifying the bone

What is chlamydia? Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) caused by bacteria. It is passed from one person to another through unprotected sex and is particularly common in sexually active teenagers and young adults. Most people with chlamydia do not notice any symptoms and do not realise that they have it. What causes chlamydia? Chlamydia is caused by

What is being analysed in this type of test? Chloride levels in the body are analysed to assess electrolyte balance and kidney function. What do the results mean? The result indicates whether chloride levels are within normal range, which is crucial for maintaining proper hydration, nerve function, and acid-base balance.   Why is the test performed? Analysing chloride leve

What is cholangiocarcinoma?   Cholangiocarcinoma or bile duct cancer is a cancer consisting of mutated epithelial cells originating in one of the ducts that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. The tumours are usually slow-growing and do not metastasise quickly. However, the majority are well advanced when detected.   Cholangiocarcinoma affects people of both sex

What is a cholecystectomy?Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder as a treatment for gallstones or other gallbladder problems. The gallbladder is responsible for collecting and storing bile, which is a digestive fluid produced by the liver. The gallbladder is located below the liver on the right side of the abdomen.  Why is a cholecystectomy performed?A cholecystec

What is cholecystitis? Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder. If not treated, it can lead to more serious infections, or become a long-term condition (chronic cholecystitis). What are the symptoms of cholecystitis? The main symptom is pain in the upper right or middle of the abdomen, which usually lasts about 30 minutes. Other symptoms can be: Light-coloured stools

What is cholelithiasis? Cholelithiasis refers to the presence of one or more gallstones in the gallbladder. Gallstones are little stones made of cholesterol formed in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ found underneath the liver and aids digestion by releasing a digestive fluid called bile into the small intestine.   What are the symptoms of cholelithiasis? Most

What is a cholesteatoma? A cholesteatoma is a rare abnormal growth of skin in the middle ear behind the eardrum that is formed of skin cells. Over time it can grow and destroy middle ear bones or nearby ear structures.   If left untreated, a cholesteatoma can lead to further complications, including ear infections, hearing loss, tinnitus (sounds which come from inside the body rathe