Medical dictionary

What is a respiratory infection? An acute respiratory infection (ARI) is a disease of the respiratory tract that evolves in a period of fewer than 15 days, often turning into pneumonia. It is usually classified into three types according to the degree of complication: ARI without pneumonia ARI with mild pneumonia ARI with severe pneumonia What are the symptoms of a respirator

What is analysed? Respiratory pathogens are microorganisms that have the potential to cause respiratory infections or diseases in humans. Common respiratory pathogens include: Viruses: Examples include influenza A, influenza B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), SARS-CoV-2, and adenoviruses. Bacteria: Examples include streptococcus pneumoniae, haemophilus influenzae, mycoplasma pneum

What is respiratory physiotherapy? Respiratory physiotherapy is a type of physical therapy designed to assess and treat disorders of the respiratory system. Most approaches to respiratory physiotherapy employ a number of chest clearance techniques, along with exercises, and teach the patient rest positions to maximise the functional ability of their lungs. It aims to unclog the patient’s

What is analysed in respiratory syncytial virus testing? Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that can affect individuals of all ages. The analysis involves detecting the presence of RSV in respiratory samples, typically obtained from the nose or throat. How is it used? RSV analysis is utilised to diagnose respiratory infections caused by the virus. It helps

What is restless legs syndrome?   Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a nervous system disorder that causes an irrepressible urge to get up and walk or move the legs, usually happening in the evening or night-time hours. As such, this is also considered a sleep disorder as it can cause significant sleep disruption in those with restless legs syndrome. Anyone can suffer from this syndrome, a

When is it requested? Reticulocyte count is often requested when assessing the bone marrow's ability to produce red blood cells. It is commonly ordered in cases of anaemia or other blood disorders. Why perform the analysis? This analysis helps evaluate the rate of red blood cell production, providing crucial insights into various conditions, such as anaemia, bone marrow disorder

What is retinal detachment?   Retinal detachment happens when the external retinal membrane (retinal pigment epithelium) separates from the internal retinal membrane (sensory retina).        There are three different types of retinal detachment: Rhegmatogenous: This is the most common retinal detachment. It happens when there is a tear in the

What is retinal detachment surgery? The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the inside of the eye and sends visual messages via the optic nerve to the brain. When the retina detaches, it is pulled from its normal position. Retinal detachment is caused by a retinal tear and can lead to blurred or lost vision.     Surgery is the only treatment for retin

What is a retinal tear? A retinal tear is when the thin layer at the back of your eye (retina) is torn. This creates a risk of retinal detachment and severe loss of vision. Prognosis of a retinal tear If a retinal tear is detected early, before it progresses to retinal detachment, the prognosis is very good. If retinal tears are left untreated, then there is a ver