Medical dictionary

What is being analysed? The red series is being analysed here, and it refers to the study and interpretation of the different parameters that study red blood cells. The main haematological parameters in peripheral blood are: Red blood cells Haemoglobin Haematocrit Mean corpuscular volume Mean corpuscular haemoglobin Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration Red cell distribut

What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSD)? Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSD) is a condition that affects the sympathetic nervous system. It is a painful chronic condition that tends to last more than six months, it causes stiffness and discolouration in the affected area.   The nerves affected by reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome are located either side of th

What is refractive lens exchange? Refractive lens exchange (RLE), also known as lens replacement surgery or clear lens extraction is a procedure offered to patients with extreme farsightedness (hyperopia) or age-related presbyopia (loss of the ability to focus on nearby objects). The procedure is actually almost identical to the procedure for cataract surgery in that the natural lens is rep

What is laser refractive surgery? Refractive surgery modifies the anatomy of the eye to correct vision problems such as hypermetropia, astigmatism and myopia.   Refractive surgery can be performed using several laser techniques including: PRK: Or photorefractive keratectomy, this is a superficial procedure suitable for people with thin corneas or a low pre

What is regional anaesthesia? Regional anaesthesia is a type of anaesthesia in which a large part of the body is made completely numb, for example, an arm or the lower half of the body. You remain awake and conscious while under regional anaesthesia, but can feel no pain while the surgeon carries out the procedure. It also relaxes the muscles in the affected part of the body, enabling the su

What is relationship counselling?   Relationship counselling is a type of psychotherapy aimed at analysing and solving conflicts that arise in a relationship. Depending on the type of problems a couple has, the specialist adapts the treatment and the frequency of sessions to find the best solution for the relationship.     Objectives of relationship counselling

What are removable dentures? Removable dentures, better known as false teeth, are prosthetic teeth made from material such as acrylic and metal, which fit over the gums and/or remaining teeth to give the appearance that the patient still has a full set of teeth. Dentures also help patients missing most of their teeth to chew food and speak normally. However, they may not

What is renal artery embolism? Renal artery embolism occurs when a blood clot travels from the heart or an aortic plaque to the renal tissue, causing a blockage to the artery carrying blood to the kidney. The area of reduced blood flow in the kidney will often have low perfusion (the passage of fluid), and is then referred to as a renal infarct. In some cases, total obstruction may occur,

What is renal artery stenosis? Renal artery stenosis is a disease in which one or more arteries carrying blood to the kidneys (renal arteries) are narrowed and can become obstructed. As a result, the kidneys do not receive sufficient oxygen-rich blood. Symptoms of renal artery stenosis Generally, symptoms do not become apparent until the disease has reached an advanced stage. In