Medical dictionary

What is lateral epicondylitis?   Lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, is an injury that causes pain on the outside of the elbow. It is due to repeated wrist extension and forearm supination movements. Repeated use of these muscles causes microinjuries to the tendon. If this persists over time, irritation and pain develops on the outside of the elbow. Although commonly k

What is being analysed? Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a protein found on the surface of cells, particularly in the skin and lungs. This analysis examines the presence and activity levels of EGFR, which play crucial roles in cell growth, proliferation, and survival. What does the result mean? The result of EGFR analysis indicates the expression levels or mutations present

What is an epidural?       An epidural is a strong anti-inflammatory medication that is administered in the space surrounding the spinal cord. This is called the epidural space. This injection temporarily relieves inflammation or pain in the spine or limbs. The injection can help confirm the exact site of the pain generator.     Why would

What is epidurolysis?   Epidurolysis is an invasive treatment developed by Dr Gabor Racz for managing back pain, and is also known as Racz Catheterisation. It is not widely practised in the UK due to limited clinical evidence for effectiveness and frequent post-operative pain.     Why is epidurolysis performed?   Epidurolysis is performed to treat a ran

What is an epiduroplasty? An epiduroplasty, also known as an epiduroscopy or epidural endoscopy, involves inserting a small tube (catheter) equipped with a camera into the spine. With the additional use of x-ray vision, a specialist can produce images of the nerves and fibrotic tissue inside of the epidural space and treat back pain. It is a fairly new and effective technique to relieve

What is epilepsy? Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures in the person suffering. These seizures appear when groups of nerve cells (neurons) in the brain send out erroneous signals. This can cause violent muscle spasms or even a loss of consciousness. What are the symptoms of epilepsy? The symptoms of epilepsy vary from one person to another. They emphasize the

What is epilepsy surgery?   Epilepsy surgery is a surgical procedure that is performed when patients who have epilepsy do not respond adequately to medication. This is relevant to approximately 20 per cent of cases, and in these cases, the patient’s quality of life is severely affected by this ailment.   The surgical technique used depends on each pa

What is an epiretinal membrane? An epiretinal membrane is a translucent cellular membrane that develops over the macula (the central part of the retina responsible for vision of detail and movement). These cells are normally derived from the retina but may also be derived from deeper layers, such as the pigmented epithelium. These cells secrete collagen and form a mesh; when this membrane co

What is epistaxis? Epistaxis is a nosebleed originating from the nostrils. It is rarely life-threatening and is classified according to its location, whether it is anterior or posterior. An anterior nosebleed is common and does it not require urgent attention. A posterior nosebleed is rare and will need immediate medical care.   What causes a nosebleed? It can be caused by