Medical dictionary

What is a digital dental impression? A dental impression is an accurate mould of a person’s teeth. Traditionally, this is done by using one of a number of possible casting materials to create a negative imprint of the teeth, which can then be used to create a positive replica. Modern advances in technology mean that dentists can now create virtual impressions of the har

What is a digital X-ray? A digital X-ray, or digital radiography, is a modern type of X-ray that utilises digital sensors instead of photographic film, as with a traditional X-ray. The image captured is converted to digital data immediately and is available for review within seconds. What does a digital X-ray involve? The digital X-ray procedure is highly similar to traditional X-rays

What is analysed? Digoxin is a medication primarily used to treat heart-related conditions. The analysis involves measuring the concentration of digoxin in the blood. What does the result mean? The result signifies the level of digoxin in the bloodstream. This information is crucial to ensure the drug is within the therapeutic range, offering maximum benefits with minimal side effects

What is dilated cardiomyopathy? Dilated cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that results in the heart not being able to pump blood around the body. It usually starts in the left ventricle. The left ventricle (hearts main blood pumping chamber) becomes weak, stretched and thin and loses the ability to pump a sufficient amount of blood to the rest of the body.   What ar

What is diplopia? Diplopia, also called double vision, is an eye condition in which the images perceived by the eyes are not processed in the brain as a single spatial image, and instead, the brain sees two images. Depending on its origin, it can be of two types: binocular: the most common type, where the eyes do not line up with each other correctly. It is usually related to strabismus.

What is being analysed? The Direct Antiglobulin Test, or DAT, is a laboratory test that evaluates whether red blood cells (RBCs) have antibodies or complement proteins attached to their surface. What does the result mean? A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies or complement proteins on the surface of red blood cells. This may suggest immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia

What is direct-to-consumer genetic testing? Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing is marketed towards consumers directly, whether it be by print advertising, television, online or in shops. The genetic test may offer to analyse your ancestry or can look at potential disease risks to your health. Whilst it can be interesting for a consumer to do, the tests are

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