Medical dictionary

What is stereotactic radiotherapy? Stereotactic radiotherapy is an irradiation technique to target, with precision, tumours. The treatment is done over several sessions depending on the patient. It is a radiotherapy technique that allows a large dose of radiation to be administered to the targeted area. A tracking system is used to locate the tumour and identify the organs at risk, this way

What is the sternoclavicular joint? The sternoclavicular (SC) joint is one of four joints that make up the shoulder. The SC joint connects the sternum (breastbone) to the clavicle (collarbone). Injuries to the SC joint are not typically common, and even though they can be very painful, they can heal well without surgery.   What are the symptoms of sternoclavicular joint disorders

What is hand stiffness? Hand stiffness can involve a reduction in the overall range of movement in your hands, or greater difficulty within that range of movement. Stiffness might be constant or it might be worse at certain times of day. Depending on the cause of the stiffness, symptoms may worsen over time, stay the same, or improve.   What causes hand stiffness? Some of the

What is stomach cancer?   Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is cancer that develops in the stomach or the stomach lining. There are different types of stomach cancer, including: Adenocarcinomas: Stomach cancer that develops in the gland in the inner lining of the stomach. Sometimes, it can also start at the junction of the gullet and the stomach, called gastr

What is gastroenteritis? Gastroenteritis, sometimes known as stomach flu, is an infection which causes inflammation of the intestines. This can lead to diarrhoea, dehydration, nausea, and vomiting.   Gastroenteritis is very common, especially in young children, though it can affect people of all ages. The cause of the infection is usually viral or bacterial.   What a

What is stomach reduction?A stomach reduction is an operation to reduce the size of the stomach. It is mainly performed in people who are morbidly obese. Different techniques exist, some of which involve removal of specific parts of the stomach.  Why is stomach reduction surgery performed?The operation is performed to eliminate excess weight in people who are morbidly obese. It is perfor

What is stomach surgery? Stomach surgery describes the group of surgical procedures that remove, repair or modify the stomach, depending on what the underlying illness or problem is. Stomach disorders that can require surgery include: Stomach acid disease – a condition in which the stomach overproduces stomach acid, and can lead to stomach ulcers forming. Stomach cancer Gastropa

What is a stomach ulcer?A stomach ulcer, which is also known as a peptic or gastric ulcer, is a sore in the mucous membrane that lines the stomach or duodenum, the first segment of the small intestine.  The most common symptom is heartburn, which may happen after eating or during the night, and this can last for several hours.   What are the symptoms of stomach ulcers?The

What is being analysed? Stool culture is a diagnostic test that examines a sample of stool for the presence of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. It helps identify the specific microorganisms responsible for gastrointestinal infections.   What is it used to diagnose? Stool culture is used to diagnose infections such as bacterial gastroenteritis, salmonella