Medical dictionary

What are growth disorders?   Growth disorders are anomalies or irregularities during a child’s growth and development. This means that a child can either grow more slowly or faster when compared to other children of the same age. Weight and height are the main, more evident, characteristics of growth. When these measurements are different from the standard growth chart, there may

What is the growth hormone? The growth hormone (also known as HGH – human growth hormone – and somatropin) is a protein produced by the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, and is part of a series of glands that make up the endocrine system, which also produces other important hormones for the body. The main functions of growth hormo

What is being analysed? Growth hormone (GH), also known as somatotropin, is a vital hormone produced by the pituitary gland. GH plays a crucial role in stimulating growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration.   What does the result mean? The analysis of GH levels provides insights into an individual's growth patterns, metabolism, and overall health. Abnormal GH levels can

What is guided implant surgery? Guided implant surgery is a modern method of installing dental implants in patients who are missing a tooth, or have just had a tooth removed. It uses computers to scan the patient’s mouth and create a 3D model, which allows the dentist to plan the optimum procedure before carrying it out. Without the guided approach, some guesswork is needed to choose the

What is Guillain-Barré syndrome? Guillain-Barré syndrome  is a relatively rare neurological disorder which occurs in 1 to 2 per 100,000 of the population, and can affect any age group.  It occurs when the body's immune system (defense system) mistakenly attacks the nervous system. This leads to damage and inflammation of the nerves. The syndrome affects the n

What is a gum graft?   A gum graft is a surgical procedure that consists of using tissue from either the patient's own mouth (this is most recommended), or synthetic tissue, and placing it where the roots of the teeth have been exposed by gum recession. Receding gums are commonly caused by periodontal disease. The dentist administers a local anaesthetic to the affected area. Af

What is a gummy smile? The gingival (gummy) smile is a deformity characterised by over-reaching of the upper gums when smiling. It occurs when the proportions of teeth and gums are not in proportion. Depending on the size of the gum shown, there are different levels of gummy smile severity: Mild: between two to four millimetres of gum are shown. Moderate: four to six millimetres of gum

What is gynaecological cancer? Gynaecological cancer refers to any cancer that occurs in any of the organs of the female reproductive system, which is located in the pelvic region below the stomach and between the hips. There are five types of gynaecological cancer, differentiated by location: Cervical cancer Ovarian cancer Uterine cancer Vaginal cancer Vulvar cancer Symp

What is a gynaecological examination?A gynaecological examination is done to assess the overall health of the female reproductive system. During the exam, the gynaecologist will look at the external and internal reproductive organs, as well as at the breasts, to determine whether there are any problems or conditions present.  What does a gynaecological examination involve?During a gynaec