Medical dictionary

What is sinusitis? Sinusitis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses which are the cavities located behind the forehead, cheeks and eyes. It occurs as a result of infection by viruses, fungi or bacteria. Sinusitis can be treated by an ENT specialist. There are two types of sinusitis: Acute sinusitis – when the symptoms are present for four weeks

What is the purpose of a sinus lift?  The sinuses are small, hollow spaces behind your cheekbones and forehead, connected to the inside of the nose. The bone inside the sinuses has a thin membrane lining.  A sinus lift, or sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that may be necessary for a successful dental implant. The bone in the maxilla (the part where the premolar and molar

What is analysed? Sirolimus, also known as rapamycin, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called mTOR inhibitors. The analysis involves measuring the concentration of sirolimus in a patient's blood to ensure it is within the therapeutic range.   What does the result mean? The result indicates the amount of sirolimus present in the bloodstream. This information

What is Sjögren’s syndrome? Sjögren’s syndrome is a disease that affects moisture-producing glands of the body. Specifically, it is an autoimmune disorder (meaning the immune system attacks the cells of its own body) in which the tear- and saliva-producing glands are destroyed, leading to dry mouth and eyes. The syndrome can also affect other parts of the body, including t

What is skeletal dysplasia? A skeletal dysplasia is a problem with the way that bones grow and develop. There are over 200 types of skeletal dysplasia, affecting 1 in 4,000 births. The most common types of skeletal dysplasia are achondroplasia, achondrogenesis, thanatophoric dysplasia, and osteogenesis imperfecta. Symptoms of skeletal dysplasia include: short arms and legs

What are skin allergies? Skin allergies are an immune reaction produced by the presence or contact with certain substances or products (allergens). Reactions can vary depending on the product that causes the allergy to the person: perfumes, lotions, cosmetics, flowers, or even foods. In addition, there are different types of skin allergies: food allergy, contact dermatitis, and atopy.

What is a skin biopsy? A skin biopsy is a medical procedure where skin tissue is removed for further examination. This extracted skin tissue will typically be an unusual lump, bump or rash that has formed on the skin. It may also be a mole, ulcer, sore, or any coloured area of the individual’s skin. This out-patient routine surgical procedure is com

What is skin cancer? Skin cancer is one of the most commonly occuring types of cancer. There are certain types of skin cancer. There are non-melanoma skin cancers which are a group of cancers that are slow-growing and develop on the upper layers of the skin. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and start in the cells of the lower epidermis. Squamous cell carcinoma (

How is skin cancer diagnosed? A skin biopsy is one of the most effective methods used by dermatologists in order to make an accurate diagnosis of or to rule out skin cancer. A skin biopsy can also accurately determine what type of skin cancer the patient has, in the case where skin cancer is detected. The patient's skin will also be closely examined, and some doctors will decide to take