Medical dictionary

What is a coloboma? A coloboma is a developmental condition that causes part of the eye to have a “gap”. Coloboma can be classified into several types according to the affected part of the eye: coloboma of the iris (coloured part of the eye) coloboma of the eyelid coloboma of the lens (the part of the eye that focuses light on the retina) macular coloboma (of the macula,

What is colon cancer? Colon cancer is the proliferation of malignant cells in the colon, which, along with the rectum, is in charge of storing faeces which are then expelled through the anus. This type of bowel-affecting cancer can develop due to polyps being being present and manifesting themelves in the bowel.  There are four main stages of colon cancer, and, of course, the earliest p

What is colon hydrotherapy? Colon hydrotherapy, or a colon cleanse, is a bowel cleansing treatment to improve intestinal transit and to activate the circulatory system. The aim is to eliminate accumulated waste and toxins, thus alleviating pressure in the abdominal area and combating intestinal problems. Why is it performed? This technique is primarily used as an intestinal cleansing

What is a colonoscopy?A colonoscopy is a type of endoscopy that is used to examine the colon and small intestine in order to detect any abnormalities (inflammation, ulcers, polyps, etc.). The procedure can take anywhere from twenty to sixty minutes, depending on what is found during the procedure.  What does a colonoscopy involve?It is performed using a thin, flexible tube (end

What is colorectal cancer?Colorectal cancer, which is also known as bowel cancer, is thought to be the third leading cause of death in developed countries, and it is more common in men than in women. The colon and rectum are the last sections of the digestive system where nutrients are broken down, digested and absorbed, and waste is formed before being expelled. The cells of these orga

What is colorectal cancer surgery? Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer, is cancer of the large intestine (colon). The large intestine makes up the end of the digestive tract, and cancer usually starts as a cluster of cells called polyps. Not all polyps are cancerous, and therefore it is important to closely monitor them and have them removed before they become cancerous. Colo

What is a colostomy? A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening, or stoma, in the abdominal wall to allow waste to exit the body bypassing a diseased or damaged part of the colon. This procedure is often necessary for patients with conditions such as colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, traumatic injury to the colon, congenital defects, or inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn&r

What is colour blindness?   Colour blindness (also known as colour vision deficiency) makes it difficult to identify and distinguish between certain colours. Total colour blindness (achromatopsia) is quite rare and it causes an inability to see any colour at all and an increased sensitivity to light. Colour vision deficiency can be classified into different categories, according to vari

What is colposcopy?Colposcopy is a procedure which allows the cervix (the neck of the womb) to be examined, using a device called a colposcope, which illuminates and magnifies the area.  Why is colposcopy performed?Colposcopy is most commonly performed after a cervical smear which has shown some presence of abnormal cells. A cervical smear is a routine procedure offered to women between