Medical dictionary

What is a sprained ankle? A sprained ankle is an injury of the ankle ligaments caused by twisting or being stretched beyond their limit of movement. There are three types of sprained ankle, classified by severity: Grade I sprains are the least severe. Ankle ligaments are not torn. Swelling and pain are mild. There may be effusion (the collection of fluid in the joint). In this c

What is being analysed? A sputum culture is a laboratory test that examines the presence of bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms in the respiratory tract secretions (sputum) expelled from the lungs and airways. This analysis helps identify the specific pathogens causing respiratory infections.   What can be diagnosed with this analysis? Sputum culture is utilised to diagno

What is squamous cell carcinoma?   Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of  skin cancer. It develops in the squamous cells in the epidermis, located near the skin's surface. It is a type of malignant tumour. Most often, the skin is affected by SCC but it can also develop on other parts of the body where squamous cells are found,

What is stage fright? Stage fright, or performance anxiety, is state of anxiety or fear which occurs when an individual is faced with the requirement of performing in front of an audience (either directly or through a screen, e.g in front of a camera). It affects all kinds of people who have to appear in front of an audience, even when they are not necessarily speaking. For example, it can affe

What are statins? Statins are a group of drugs that lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol is thought of as the “bad” cholesterol and is produced by the liver. Statins act by blocking the liver enzyme that works to produce cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount released into the bloodstream. Statins can also lower levels of triglycerides a

What are stem cells?Stem cells are cells that can differentiate, that is, they can transform into other tissues and organs cells. Stem cells can be found in any grown human body. Stem cells can divide into:Totipotent stem cells , which can become any kind of organic tissue;Pluripotent stem cells , a cell type that can transform into nearly all types of cells for tissues and organs;Unipotent stem c

What is a stent? A stent or endoprosthesis is a small, flexible tube, and is usually made of biocompatible plastic material. It is used to repair or support arteries, veins, and ducts in the body. There are several models and brands of stent to suit the person’s needs and the type of surgery. Stent placement is aimed at strengthening the venous wall and facilitating proper blood supply

What is a stereoscopy? Stereoscopy or stereoscopic imaging is a technique used to collect three-dimensional (3D) images and create the illusion of depth through the stereographic image or stereogram. Two slightly offset images are shown separately to each eye of the viewer. Both images are the same but from a slightly different angle or perspective. The brain is then tricked into thinking that

What is stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR)? Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) is a form of externally-applied radiotherapy that is highly precise and concentrated. Doses are delivered to areas of the body where there are cancerous cells, such as tumours, with minimal damage to healthy tissues.      SABR is one of the best treatments for patients with c