Medical dictionary

What is facial plastic surgery? Facial plastic surgery is a broad term covering cosmetic or reconstructive surgery performed on the head and neck. A facial plastic surgeon has a strong knowledge of facial anatomy and is highly skilled in procedures concerning the head and neck, either cosmetic or reconstructive. Specialised plastic surgeons are not the only doctors who may be suitably traine

What is a radiofrequency facial? Radiofrequency is a non-invasive aesthetic technique used on the face and body to contour, tighten skin and reduce sagging. The procedure is ideal for people who do not want to have cosmetic surgery. It’s a painless treatment that does not require anaesthesia or leaves marks or scars. It uses radiofrequency energy to heat tissue and stimulate collagen prod

What is facial reconstruction? Microsurgical facial reconstruction encompasses various surgical techniques that are used to treat both diseases or injury that have led to loss of some of the structure or function of the face. Why is facial reconstruction surgery done? Several conditions are treatable, notably different types of facial paralysis and atrophy that prevent the c

What is analysed? Factor V Leiden mutation is a genetic variant of the factor V protein that increases the risk of developing blood clots, associated with a condition known as venous thromboembolism. Prothrombin G20210A mutation is also a genetic variant of prothrombin that increases the risk of developing blood clots, associated with venous thromboembolism. The factor V Leiden mutation a

Faecal fat analysis is a diagnostic test used to evaluate fat malabsorption in the digestive system. Here's a structured guide to understanding faecal fat analysis: What is being analysed? Faecal fat analysis measures the amount of fat excreted in the stool over a specified period. It helps assess fat absorption and digestive function in the gastrointestinal tract. How is it us

What is being analysed? Faecal occult blood (FOB) analysis is a diagnostic procedure that aims to detect the presence of blood in stool samples. The term "occult" refers to blood that is not visible to the naked eye, making this test crucial for identifying potential gastrointestinal bleeding that may not be apparent through visual inspection alone. What does the result mean?

What is faltering growth? “Faltering growth” is a term used for when infants and young children do not gain weight as quickly as expected for their age and sex. Growth may be slow or, in some cases, the child may actually lose weight. As such, faltering growth is a common cause for concern for parents.     Symptoms of faltering growth The key symptom i

What counts as a family history of breast cancer?   If many members of your family have or had cancer, there is a possibility that it may be caused by a faulty gene that might increase your risk of developing cancer. This is known as a family history of cancer.   In the case of breast cancer, genes that may increase the risk are BRCA1 and BRCA2. An abnormal CHEK2 gene may als

What is a family history of heart disease? If you have a family history of heart disease, or other conditions, it means that other members of your family have suffered from it. This implies a causal link - shared genetics, shared lifestyles, and/or a shared environment could be the cause of the condition. In the case of heart and circulatory diseases, it is important to look at whi