Medical dictionary

What is De Quervain syndrome? De Quervain syndrome is an inflammation of the tendon sheath (a membrane encasing the joints in the human body) of the tendons that control thumb. This condition causes your thumb to thicken and the tendon sheath to shrink, limiting your articular motion and leading to overall pain in your hand and wrist. What is the prognosis of De Quervain syndrome? The

What is a DEXA scan? A dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, (or bone density scan) is a technique used to measure bone density. The scan is quick and painless and involves the patient lying on their back on an X-ray table. There is no tunnel to pass through as with an MRI or CT scan, so there is no feeling of claustrophobia.   What is the procedure for a DEXA scan? The

What is diabetes? Diabetes mellitus (DM), or just diabetes, refers to a group of metabolic diseases which result in an inability to regulate blood sugar levels. Having too much glucose in your blood can damage the kidneys, eyes, nerves and other parts of the body, including the blood vessels themselves. In extreme cases, diabetes can cause heart disease and strokes, and patients may even requir

What is diabetic foot? Diabetes can affect the feet in a number of ways and diabetic foot is said to occur when the foot displays symptoms of a condition arising from diabetes or complications of diabetes. This can include a range of problems, such as ulcers and infections. What are the symptoms? Leg ulcers, infection and sores are common complications. In severe cases,

What are disabilities? A disability is a physical or mental impairment. It may prevent or limit daily activity which are usually considered to be normal for human beings. Today, the concept is an umbrella term, referring to physical, mental and social aspects. What are the different types of disability? Physical disability  Most of these affect mobility, often d

What is a discectomy? Discectomy is a surgical procedure to partially or completely remove a spinal disc. The spinal disc is the cushion that separates the vertebrae, the bones that make up your spine. Why is a discectomy performed? A discectomy is usually performed to treat a herniated spinal disc. A spinal disc hernia means that some of the fluid has leaked out and has begun to pres

What is Dupuytren's contracture?Dupuytren's contracture, or Dupuytren's disease, is a hand deformity that consists of the thickening of tissues located under the palm of the hand and results in one or more of the fingers becoming permanently bent in a flexed position.When the syndrome starts, knots or lumps form in the palm that prevent the fingers from straightening. Daily activities, such a

What is dysmetria? Dysmetria is a medical condition in which the length between the bone segments of the legs is different. It is a common condition that affects one in three people. What are the symptoms of dysmetria? People who are over 20 years old and have dysmetria can experience various symptoms, such as: lower back pain, or; pain of different in

What is the elbow? The elbow is the joint that joins the arm to the forearm, connecting the humerus with the proximal ends of the ulna and radius. It is formed of bone, cartilage, ligaments, and fluid. The muscles and tendons help stabilise the elbow when we move it. Trauma to any of these structures will cause problems in the elbow. Function of the elbow The elbow enables a series of