Medical dictionary

What is analysed? Streptococcus pyogenes, commonly known as Group A streptococcus, are bacteria that can affect the throat, leading to infections in this area such as strep throat. However, Group A Streptococcus isn’t the only possible bacterial cause for an infection of the throat. Most throat infections will also be caused by viruses. A throat culture is used to detect and identify t

What is being analysed? Thrombin time (TT) is a laboratory test that measures the time it takes for a fibrin clot to form after the addition of thrombin to plasma. What does the result mean? The result of thrombin time indicates the functionality of the final step of the coagulation cascade, specifically the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin by thrombin. Why do the

What is thrombocytopenia (low blood count)?Thrombocytopenia is the alteration of the number of platelets. Platelets are colourless blood cells that help the blood clotting process and stop bleeding by clumping in blood vessel injuries. Thrombocytopenia is a condition where there is a decrease in platelets, which causes abnormal bleeding. It might occur because of bone marrow disorders su

What is thrombophilia? Thrombophilia is a blood clotting condition in which your blood coagulates too easily. This can increase your risk of forming blood clots in arteries, veins, (or both). A blood clot is dangerous if left untreated and can lead to thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).   What are the different types? There are different

What is thrombophlebitis? Thrombophlebitis is the inflammation of a leg vein caused by a blood clot (thrombus). The vein can either be close the surface of the skin (superficial thrombophlebitis) or in a deep vein (deep vein thrombosis).   What are the symptoms of thrombophlebitis? The symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis are: Redness Swelling Tenderness and pai

What is thrombosis? Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot inside a blood vessel (vein or artery) which can obstruct the flow of blood throughout the body. There are different types of thrombosis, which are classified depending on where the thrombosis is located:    Phlebothrombosis Phlebothrombosis is the formation of a blood clot inside the vein

What is thrush? Thrush is a yeast infection that affects men, women and babies. It’s often harmless, but at times can be uncomfortable and may keep coming back. It can present itself in the genital area or in the mouth as oral thrush. Oral thrush is common in babies and older people with dentures.   What are the symptoms of thrush? Thrush symptoms in men Burning, i

What is thumb arthritis? Thumb arthritis is a very common condition that is characterised by the degeneration of the joint at the base of the thumb. What are the causes of thumb arthritis, and what symptoms can develop? Thumb arthritis typically develops gradually over time, often as a result of wear and tear on the joint due to repetitive movements, ageing, or previous injuries. As t

When is thumb joint replacement surgery indicated? Thumb joint replacement surgery, also known as thumb arthroplasty, becomes necessary when the thumb joint deteriorates due to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. These conditions cause limited mobility, pain and stiffness in the thumb joint, impacting daily activities like gripping and pinching.   What does th