Medical dictionary

What is foetal alcohol syndrome? Foetal alcohol syndrome occurs when a woman drinks alcohol during pregnancy and runs the risk of damaging her baby, as drinking may affect the way that the baby’s brain develops and can result in mental and physical problems. Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder is an umbrella term for a range of preventable alcohol-related birth defects.   What a

What is analysed? Foetal DNA analysis in maternal blood involves the examination of specific components or aspects of the unborn child's genetic material. This includes scrutinising key genetic markers, chromosomal abnormalities, and other relevant factors that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the developing foetus. What does the result mean? Interpreting the results

What is being analysed here? Foetal fibronectin is produced at the junction between the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus and the inner membrane of the maternal uterus (decidua). Its detection in cervicovaginal fluid is used to predict the risk of pre-term labour in the short term. What does the result mean? Negative or normal: In a normal pregnancy, fFN disappears after 24 weeks and

What is foetal surgery? Foetal surgery is a surgical procedure performed on a foetus while it is in the womb of the mother. It is rare; only 1 in 1,000 pregnancies require this type of operation. It is a growing area of medicine that can save the life of a baby who has a malformation or disease.     Why is it done? In the past, foetal surgery was done only in

What is being analysed? Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproductive function, particularly in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and the production of sperm. What does the result signify? The result of an FSH test indicates the level of FSH present in the blood. Elevated or decreased levels of FSH can provide

What are food allergies?Food allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts unusually to specific foods. The body mistakenly produces an antibody when a specific food that triggers the allergy has been consumed. The antibodies start a process that releases histamine for the body to fight what it thinks is invading it. Finding out which foods are causing the symptoms can be difficul

What is food intolerance?Food intolerance is the adverse reaction of the body to the intake of certain foods. It refers to a difficulty digesting particular foods. Food intolerance is not the same as a food allergy. The latter triggers a much more rapid reaction in the immune system which is dangerous to the health. Food allergies cause hives, eczema, swelling and difficulty breathing, so it is u

What is the purpose of a food intolerance test?   A food intolerance test is a diagnostic tool to identify whether your body is hypersensitive towards a certain food, which could cause an adverse reaction to your system.     How are food intolerances different from food allergies?   Contrary to food allergies, food intolerances don’

The foot is a complex structure consisting in dozens of bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and over a hundred tendons. Properly functioning feet are essential to walking and standing unaided. Our feet must fulfil four basic functions: act as a rigid lever to create the propulsive force needed for walking transfer the rotational forces produced by the hip adapt to uneven surfaces abs