Medical dictionary

What are age spots? Age spots, also known as liver spots, are brown or black, flat spots or blotches on the skin that are very common in people over the age of 50. They can vary in size and sometimes form patches of darker skin. They can sometimes appear on younger people who get a lot of sun exposure. Despite commonly being known as liver spots, they have no relation to the liver. 

What is agoraphobia? Coming from Greek, the word agoraphobia literally means “fear of the public square or market place”, and is often said to refer to a fear of open spaces. However, this is somewhat misleading.   Agoraphobia is actually an anxiety disorder in which you may perceive an environment as unsafe, disproportionately to the actual danger of the situation

What is AIDS? AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is a chronic condition caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically destroying and impairing the immune cells (different types of white blood cells). This can hamper your ability to fight off infection and disease, causing symptoms such as fatigue, fever, weight los

What is analysed in an ALT test? Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found primarily in the liver. ALT plays a crucial role in the conversion of amino acids, specifically alanine, and helps in the production of energy.   What does the result mean? The ALT test measures the level of this enzyme in the blood. Elevated ALT levels may indicate liver damage or disease, prov

What is being analysed? Albumin levels in the body are being analysed. Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and plays a crucial role in maintaining blood volume and regulating various bodily functions. What does the result mean? The result indicates the concentration of albumin in the blood. Abnormal levels can suggest liver or kidney problems, malnutrition, or other underlying

What is being analysed? In this analysis, we examine two crucial components: Albumin in urine and the Albumin/Creatinine ratio. These elements play a significant role in understanding kidney function and overall urinary health. What does the result mean? The results of this analysis provide valuable insights into kidney health. Elevated levels of Albumin or an abnormal Albumin/Creatin

What is alcoholic liver disease? Alcoholic liver disease (also known as ARLD) is caused by excess alcohol consumption, which damages the liver because of a build-up of fat and leads to scarring and inflammation. The liver usually regenerates itself but in drinking too much alcohol, over time it can cease to properly function and can even be fatal if not treated in the

What is alcoholism? Addictions to toxic substances are chronic diseases that affect the brain and behavior, characterised by the dependence on one or more drugs which are harmful to the body: in this case, alcohol. Alcoholism may also be known as alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, or alcohol use disorder. What are the symptoms of alcoholism? Indicators of alcohol misuse or alcohol add

What is being analysed? Aldolase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in glycolysis, the process by which cells break down glucose to produce energy. The analysis of aldolase levels in the blood helps assess muscle and liver function, making it a valuable diagnostic tool for various medical conditions. What does the result mean? Elevated aldolase levels may indicate muscle or liver