Medical dictionary

What is cholesterol? Cholesterol is a fatty substance known as a lipid, which is mainly made by the liver and can also be found in some foods. It is vital for the human body to function properly, producing hormones, vitamin D and bile, building healthy cell structures and helping efficient metabolism. However, if certain levels of cholesterol are too high in the blood, it ca

What is analysed? Cholesterol is an essential steroid and a type of fatty substance (lipid). It is a component of the cell membranes in all organs of the body, and it plays an important role in the production of hormones and vitamin D. Cholesterol is transported in the blood by lipoproteins. There are two main types of lipoproteins: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as &

What is being analysed here? VLDL cholesterol levels are analysed in the blood. What does the result mean? The result indicates the amount of VLDL cholesterol present in the blood. High values may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Why is this analysis performed? It is done to assess cardiovascular risk and detect potential abnormalities. When is this analysis perf

What is chondrocalcinosis?Chondrocalcinosis, also known as calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease, is a rheumatic disease characterised by the excessive accumulation of calcium crystals in the cartilage of joints. The knee is the area that is most often affected by this disease, although it is also common in other joints and bone areas. It also typically occurs more in older people.  W

What is chondromalacia? Chondromalacia, also known as runner’s knee, refers to a condition where the surface of the cartilage on the undersurface of the kneecap (the patella) deteriorates over time. Runner’s knee is common among young adults, especially those who practice certain sports that have a great impact on the knees such as basketball, volleyball, football, cycling, tennis,

What is chordee? Chordee is a congenital condition which results in the abnormal development of the penis, causing the penis to curve downwards or upwards. It happens at the very end or tip of the penis. What are the symptoms of chordee? There may be no noticeable symptoms of chordee, except during erections. The most noticeable symptom is when the penis curves downwards or upwards. T

What is chordoma?   A chordoma is a rare type of primary bone cancer that can develop in the bones of the spine or at the base of the skull. It forms from small remnants of cells in the embryo that develop into the discs of the spinal column.   It is part of a group of malignant bone and soft tissue tumours known as sarcomas. These are the most common tumour of

What is chorea? Chorea is an abnormal involuntary movement disorder characterised by the rapid movement of the hands or feet that are similar to when someone is dancing. These movements can range from minor and fidgety movements to movements that are more expansive, which can be fast or slow and the person can sometimes be seen to be moving in pain. The word chorea comes from the Greek wor

What is Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)? Chorionic villus sampling is a prenatal test. The test involves taking a sample of chorionic villi that is removed from the placenta to be tested. The sample can be taken via the abdominal wall (transabdominal) or the cervix (transcervical). During pregnancy, the placenta provides nutrients and oxygen to the growing baby and removes waste pr