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Acquired angioedema (AAE)

Acquired Angioedema (AAE): A Comprehensive Overview Acquired Angioedema (AAE) is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of swelling (angioedema) in the skin and mucous membranes. Unlike hereditary angioedema (HAE), AAE typically develops in adulthood, often after age 40 or 50, and is not inherited. It results from an acquired deficiency or dysfunction of the C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH), a protein essential for regulating the complement system and controlling inflammation. What Causes AAE? AAE is caused by excessive activity of bradykinin, a molecule that increases blood vessel permeability and causes swelling. In a healthy immune system, C1-INH controls bradykinin production. In AAE, this regulatory function fails due to very low C1-INH activity. There are two main subtypes of AAE: Type I AAE occurs when C1-INH is consumed at an abnormally high rate. This is often associated with lymphoproliferative disorders (such as lymphoma or chronic lymphocytic leukemia), autoimmune diseases, or certain solid tumors.

Acquired Hemophilia A

Acute cholecystitis

Acute cholecystitis is a severe condition that affects the gallbladder, an essential organ responsible for storing bile produced by the liver. This medical emergency arises when the gallbladder becomes inflamed, often due to a blockage caused by gallstones. The condition is not only painful but can lead to significant complications if not treated promptly. In this article, we delve into the symptoms, causes, diagnostic procedures, and effective treatments for acute cholecystitis, providing essential information for those seeking to understand this urgent health issue. Symptoms of Acute Cholecystitis The onset of acute cholecystitis is typically marked by a sudden pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, which may also radiate to the back or right shoulder. This pain can be intense and may be accompanied by: Fever and chills Tenderness in the abdomen when touched Nausea and vomiting Abdominal bloating Patients might also experience symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), particularly if the bile ducts are blocked.

Acute Intermittent Porphyria

Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP) is a rare metabolic disorder that is part of a group of conditions known as porphyrias. These conditions are characterized by problems in the production of heme, an essential component of hemoglobin in the blood that helps transport oxygen. AIP specifically involves a deficiency in one of the enzymes needed for the synthesis of heme, leading to the accumulation of toxic substances in the body that can cause a variety of symptoms. Understanding Acute Intermittent Porphyria is crucial for managing the condition effectively and improving the quality of life for those affected. The hallmark of AIP is the acute, painful attacks that can occur, which are often triggered by factors such as certain medications, stress, alcohol consumption, hormonal changes, or fasting. These attacks can manifest as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and neurological complications like weakness, tingling, or even paralysis.

Acute kidney injury (AKI)

What Is Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)? Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), also known as acute renal failure, is a sudden loss of kidney function that develops over hours or days. It causes a rapid build-up of waste products like creatinine and urea in the blood and disrupts the body’s ability to maintain fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance. AKI is common in hospitalized patients, especially those in intensive care units, and requires prompt detection and treatment. What Causes Acute Kidney Injury? AKI can be triggered by a wide range of factors, often classified into three categories: 1. Prerenal (Before the Kidneys) Low blood pressure (hypotension) Severe dehydration Heart failure Blood loss or shock 2. Intrinsic (Within the Kidneys) Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) Glomerulonephritis Nephrotoxic medications (e.g., NSAIDs, some antibiotics) Sepsis 3.

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)

Acute Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI), commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle is suddenly blocked, causing tissue damage or death due to lack of oxygen. This blockage is most often caused by a blood clot forming in a coronary artery that has been narrowed by atherosclerotic plaque buildup (cholesterol deposits and calcium), though it can also result from coronary artery spasm, dissection, or embolism. Symptoms of a heart attack typically include sudden chest pain or pressure (often described as squeezing, tightness, or heaviness), pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back, shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, lightheadedness, and overwhelming fatigue. However, some people, particularly women, older adults, and diabetics, may experience atypical symptoms such as unusual fatigue, indigestion-like discomfort, or no chest pain at all.

Acute pancreatitis

Understanding Pancreatitis Acute: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments Acute pancreatitis is sudden inflammation of the pancreas, marked by sharp abdominal pain that may require urgent medical attention. Understanding its triggers, such as gallstones and alcohol use, can be crucial. This article provides insights on detection, treatment options, and prevention strategies for pancreatitis acute, guiding you through this sudden health challenge. Key Takeaways Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas with potential life-threatening complications, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term condition leading to permanent damage. The primary causes of acute pancreatitis include gallstones and long-term heavy alcohol use, but it can also be triggered by medications, genetic factors, and high levels of triglycerides or calcium. Treatment of acute pancreatitis involves hospitalization for pain management, nutritional support, and monitoring for complications, with long-term management focusing on lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence.

Addison’s Disease

Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare but serious endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient steroid hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. It can occur at any age and affects both sexes equally. The condition is usually caused by an autoimmune response where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the adrenal glands, leading to their inability to produce hormones efficiently. Symptoms of Addison's disease develop gradually and can include chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, and hyperpigmentation of the skin. One of the hallmark features of Addison's disease is an increased pigmentation of the skin, particularly in areas exposed to friction or pressure, and in the creases of the palms. Patients may also experience salt cravings due to the lack of aldosterone, which helps regulate sodium and potassium in the body.

Adrenal fatigue

Understanding Adrenal Fatigue: Symptoms, Causes, and Management Adrenal fatigue is a controversial concept that describes a collection of symptoms believed to result from chronic stress and overworked adrenal glands. While not officially recognized by mainstream medicine, many individuals report experiencing persistent fatigue and other related symptoms. What is Adrenal Fatigue? Adrenal fatigue is theorized to occur when the adrenal glands, responsible for producing hormones like cortisol, become overwhelmed by prolonged stress. This purportedly leads to suboptimal hormone production, resulting in fatigue and other symptoms. However, it's important to note that this concept lacks scientific consensus.

Adrenal Hyperplasia

Understanding Adrenal Hyperplasia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Biomarkers Adrenal hyperplasia, often referred to as Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), is a group of genetic disorders affecting the adrenal glands. These glands, located atop the kidneys, play a crucial role in producing hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens. CAH is caused by enzyme deficiencies, primarily 21-hydroxylase, leading to improper hormone production. This condition can manifest in various forms, ranging from mild to severe, each with distinct symptoms and health implications. Individuals with adrenal hyperplasia may experience symptoms such as abnormal growth patterns, early onset of puberty, and in severe cases, life-threatening adrenal crises. Women might face virilization, exhibiting male-like characteristics due to excessive androgen production. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to managing symptoms and preventing complications. Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy to balance the hormones that the adrenal glands cannot produce adequately.

Adrenal Insufficiency

Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s Disease) – Overview and Guide Introduction to Adrenal Insufficiency Adrenal insufficiency is a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough essential hormones, primarily cortisol (and in some cases aldosterone). There are two main forms: primary adrenal insufficiency, known as Addison’s disease, and secondary adrenal insufficiency. In Addison’s disease, the adrenal glands themselves are damaged or diseased and cannot meet the body’s hormone needs. This often happens due to an autoimmune attack on the adrenal cortex (the gland’s outer layer) that destroys hormone-producing cells. In contrast, secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the pituitary gland (a gland at the base of the brain) fails to signal them properly with a hormone called ACTH. Without enough ACTH, the adrenals don’t get the “message” to make cortisol. Secondary adrenal insufficiency can develop, for example, after long-term use of corticosteroid medications that suppress the pituitary, or from pituitary tumors or surgery.

Adrenal Tumors

Adrenal tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the adrenal glands, which are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of each kidney. These glands play a crucial role in producing hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol, and aldosterone, which help regulate metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, and stress responses. Adrenal tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), with common types including adenomas, pheochromocytomas, and adrenocortical carcinomas. Symptoms of adrenal tumors vary depending on the type and size of the tumor and may include high blood pressure, unexplained weight gain or loss, fatigue, muscle weakness, and hormonal imbalances that could lead to conditions like Cushing's syndrome or Conn's syndrome. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs, blood tests to check hormone levels, and sometimes a biopsy to determine the nature of the tumor. Treatment options for adrenal tumors depend on the type, size, and whether the tumor is producing excess hormones.

Aflatoxicosis

AL Amyloidosis

Albuminuria

Understanding Albuminuria: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments What is Albuminuria? Albuminuria is a medical condition characterized by the presence of albumin, a type of protein, in the urine. Normally, healthy kidneys filter waste from the blood and retain essential proteins, like albumin. However, when the kidneys are damaged or diseased, they can allow albumin to pass into the urine, leading to albuminuria. Detecting albuminuria early is crucial because it can be an indicator of kidney damage and other health issues. Why is Albumin Important? Albumin is a protein made by the liver that plays a critical role in maintaining the body's fluid balance. It helps keep fluid in the bloodstream, so it doesn't leak into other tissues. Albumin also carries various substances throughout the body, including hormones, vitamins, and enzymes. Low levels of albumin in the blood can lead to swelling (edema), as fluid leaks into body tissues, and can be a sign of kidney problems. Prevalence of Albuminuria Albuminuria is relatively common, affecting approximately 8-10% of the general population.

Alcoholic ketoacidosis

Alcoholic ketoacidosis (AKA) is a serious metabolic emergency that develops when heavy alcohol use, poor nutrition, and repeated vomiting cause the body to produce excess ketones. It typically presents with nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting—often in individuals whose blood tests show a high anion gap and metabolic acidosis. Unlike diabetic ketoacidosis, blood glucose levels are usually normal or only slightly elevated. This condition occurs when depleted glucose stores force the body to break down fat for energy, producing ketones such as beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate. As these ketones accumulate, they lead to metabolic acidosis. Alcohol further disrupts normal energy metabolism, promoting ketone buildup and impairing glucose use. What Causes Alcoholic Ketoacidosis? Alcoholic ketoacidosis typically develops after a period of heavy alcohol intake followed by reduced food consumption.

Alcoholic Liver Disease

Allergic Asthma

Allergic Disorders

Allergic disorders are conditions in which the immune system overreacts to substances that are typically harmless, known as allergens. These allergens can include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, insect venom, and medications. In individuals with allergies, the immune system identifies these substances as threats and produces an exaggerated response—most commonly mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE)—leading to inflammation and a wide range of symptoms. Allergic disorders can affect multiple organ systems and present in various forms, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, atopic dermatitis (eczema), food allergies, and drug hypersensitivities. Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the reaction but may include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, skin rashes, hives, gastrointestinal discomfort, and respiratory symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath. In severe cases, allergic reactions can progress to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Allergic Reaction

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) Allergic rhinitis is a common allergic condition in which the immune system reacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. This triggers inflammation in the nasal passages and leads to symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and itching. It is closely associated with asthma, eczema, and other atopic conditions. On blood tests, allergic rhinitis is most often reflected by elevated eosinophils, one of the key white blood cell types involved in allergic responses. This can also contribute to an increased MXD% on a CBC, since eosinophils are part of the mixed cell group. Why This Matters for Your Blood Test Results Allergic rhinitis commonly raises eosinophil levels Elevated eosinophils are the most frequent cause of a high MXD% Total IgE is often elevated in allergic individuals Changes are usually mild and not dangerous Levels may fluctuate with allergen exposure (e.g., pollen season) If your results show mildly elevated eosinophils or MXD and you have allergy symptoms, allergic rhinitis is one of the most likely explanations.

Allergic Sinusitis

Alzheimer's Disease

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease? Understanding Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, accounting for 60–80% of all dementia cases. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that leads to a gradual decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Key Characteristics and Symptoms Alzheimer’s typically begins with mild memory loss, especially short-term memory, and progressively impairs: Cognitive abilities (e.g., decision-making, reasoning) Executive functions (e.g., planning, problem-solving) Language and communication Visuospatial skills (e.g., recognizing objects or navigating spaces) As the disease advances, patients often experience personality and behavioral changes, including depression, apathy, social withdrawal, agitation, and confusion. In its severe stages, Alzheimer's leads to complete dependency and loss of independent function. Causes and Risk Factors The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease remains unclear.

Aminoacidopathy

Aminoacidopathy: Understanding a Complex Metabolic Disorder Aminoacidopathy refers to a group of inherited metabolic disorders that disrupt the body's ability to process specific amino acids—the building blocks of proteins. While these conditions can significantly impact health and quality of life, early diagnosis and effective management can enable many individuals to thrive. What is Aminoacidopathy? Aminoacidopathies occur due to genetic defects in the enzymes responsible for breaking down particular amino acids. This leads to the accumulation of amino acids or their byproducts in the body, which can be toxic and cause various health problems [1, 2]. Types of Aminoacidopathies Aminoacidopathies vary based on the affected amino acids and their symptoms. Common examples include: Phenylketonuria (PKU): Impairs the metabolism of phenylalanine [3]. Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD): Affects the breakdown of branched-chain amino acids [4]. Homocystinuria: Disrupts methionine metabolism [5]. Tyrosinemia: Involves issues with tyrosine breakdown [6].

Amyloid Pathology

Androgenic Alopecia / Female Pattern Hair Loss

Anemia

Anemia of Chronic Disease

Anisocytosis

Anisocytosis means your red blood cells vary in size more than usual. It is an observation on a blood test, not a diagnosis in itself. What Is Anisocytosis? Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis Anisocytosis is a medical term used to describe red blood cells (RBCs) that vary significantly in size. Normally, healthy red blood cells are fairly uniform in shape and size, allowing them to transport oxygen efficiently throughout the body. When anisocytosis occurs, the variation in cell size may indicate an underlying health condition, particularly forms of anemia or nutritional deficiencies. Types of Anisocytosis Anisocytosis is often categorized based on the size of the abnormal red blood cells: Microcytosis – presence of unusually small red blood cells Macrocytosis – presence of unusually large red blood cells Mixed Anisocytosis – a combination of both small and large RBCs This condition is commonly detected during a complete blood count (CBC) test, where the red cell distribution width (RDW) is elevated, signaling size variability among the red blood cells.

Ankylosing spondylitis

Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, where the spine meets the pelvis. This disease is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation of the vertebrae, leading to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. Over time, ankylosing spondylitis can cause the vertebrae to fuse, resulting in a loss of spine flexibility and a hunched-forward posture. It most commonly begins in early adulthood, and men are more frequently affected than women. Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for ankylosing spondylitis is crucial for managing this debilitating condition effectively. Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis The symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis can vary from mild to severe and often develop gradually. The most common initial symptom is pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. This discomfort can extend to the neck and other areas of the spine.

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a serious and potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and extreme measures to maintain a low body weight. This complex mental health condition typically develops during adolescence or early adulthood, affecting people of all genders, though it is more commonly diagnosed in females. Individuals with anorexia nervosa often restrict their food intake severely, engage in excessive exercise, and may use purging behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or laxative abuse. The physical consequences of anorexia can be severe, impacting nearly every system in the body. These may include malnutrition, osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal issues, and hormonal imbalances. Psychologically, anorexia is often accompanied by depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. Early intervention and comprehensive treatment, involving a team of medical professionals, mental health experts, and nutritionists, are crucial for recovery.

Anovulation

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is a disorder where the immune system, which usually fights off harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria, mistakenly attacks certain proteins in the blood, leading to an increased risk of forming blood clots. These clots can develop in both veins and arteries anywhere in the body and can lead to serious health problems. For example, clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) can cause pain and swelling, while clots that travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) can be life-threatening. APS can also cause complications in pregnancy, such as miscarriages, preterm delivery, or severe preeclampsia (a condition marked by high blood pressure and potential damage to organs like the liver and kidneys). The syndrome is called "antiphospholipid" because the immune system creates antibodies against phospholipids, a type of fat found in the lining of cells, including blood cells and the heart's inner walls. Why the immune system does this isn't entirely clear, but these antibodies can make the blood more likely to clot.

Aplastic Anemia

What Is Aplastic Anemia? Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough new blood cells. This leads to low levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—a state known as pancytopenia. Because these cells are responsible for carrying oxygen, fighting infections, and helping blood clot, aplastic anemia can affect many systems in the body. What Happens in the Body In healthy individuals, the bone marrow continuously makes new blood cells from hematopoietic stem cells. In aplastic anemia, this process is disrupted—most often because the immune system mistakenly attacks these stem cells. As a result, the bone marrow becomes hypocellular (less full and less active). Over time, blood counts fall, and the risk of fatigue, infections, and bleeding increases.

Appendicitis

Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency (AADCD)

Understanding Aromatic L-amino Acid Decarboxylase Deficiency (AADCD): Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency (AADCD) is a rare genetic disorder that significantly impacts the nervous system. This condition, also known as AADC deficiency, results from mutations in the DDC gene, which encodes the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase. This enzyme is crucial for synthesizing neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. Without proper levels of these neurotransmitters, individuals with AADCD experience a range of severe neurological symptoms that can affect their overall development and quality of life. Raising awareness about AADCD is essential for early diagnosis and management, ultimately improving the prognosis for affected individuals. Symptoms of AADCD The symptoms of AADCD typically appear in infancy or early childhood and can vary in severity. Common signs include hypotonia (reduced muscle tone), developmental delays, and autonomic dysfunction, which affects bodily functions such as heart rate and digestion.

Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)

Asthma

What is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the airways, specifically the bronchi—tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. In asthma, these airways become inflamed and overly sensitive (hyperreactive) to various triggers, leading to episodes of airway narrowing and obstruction. How Does Asthma Affect the Airways? When a person with asthma is exposed to triggering factors—such as allergens, pollutants, cold air, exercise, or stress—the inflamed airways respond with: Bronchoconstriction (tightening of airway muscles) Mucus overproduction (clogging the air passages) Increased inflammation (further swelling of airway tissues) These reactions restrict airflow, making it difficult to breathe and leading to common asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath (dyspnea), and chest tightness. The Chronic Inflammation Behind Asthma Asthma is more than a temporary airway problem; it is a chronic inflammatory condition of the lung mucosa.

Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

Ataxia

Ataxia is a term used to describe a group of neurological disorders that affect coordination, balance, and speech, making it challenging for those affected to perform everyday activities that require precise movements. Imagine your brain as the command center sending out signals to various parts of your body to move in a synchronized and smooth manner. In ataxia, this communication system faces interference, leading to uncoordinated or clumsy movements that are not intentional. This can manifest in various ways, such as stumbling while walking, difficulty with fine motor tasks like writing or buttoning a shirt, and changes in speech clarity. The causes of ataxia can vary widely; it may be a result of genetic factors, where mutations in certain genes lead to inherited forms of the disorder, or it can stem from external factors such as a stroke, tumor, or even exposure to toxins. Additionally, some types of ataxia may develop as a result of autoimmune diseases, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own brain cells.

Atherogenic Dyslipidemia

Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Prevention

Last updated: February 10, 2026 Atherosclerosis is a chronic cardiovascular condition in which plaque builds up inside the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. Over time, this reduces blood flow to vital organs and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Early detection and management are critical because atherosclerosis often develops silently for years before symptoms appear. What is Atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease of the arteries characterized by the accumulation of plaque made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, inflammatory cells, and other substances. This plaque can: Narrow arteries (arterial stenosis) Reduce oxygen delivery to tissues Trigger blood clots Lead to cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke Atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of most cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide and is strongly linked to lipid imbalances, inflammation, and metabolic health.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atrial Fibrillation

Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune encephalitis

Autoimmune encephalitis is a complex and serious condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own brain cells, leading to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). This can cause a wide range of neurological and psychiatric symptoms that vary greatly from person to person but often include memory loss, seizures, mood swings, and sometimes even psychotic behavior. The disease can be triggered by various factors, including infections, tumors, or for reasons that remain unknown in many cases. Autoimmune encephalitis is a relatively rare disorder, but it has gained recognition over the past few years because it can often be treated effectively once diagnosed. The immune system's attack on the brain involves antibodies or immune cells targeting specific proteins in the brain, which can disrupt normal brain function.

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH)

Condition Overview & Clinical Context Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells, leading to ongoing liver inflammation and progressive tissue damage. Over time, untreated AIH can result in fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, and an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. When identified early, however, AIH is often highly treatable, and many individuals achieve long-term disease control. AIH can affect individuals of any age or sex but is more commonly diagnosed in women. The condition may develop gradually with subtle symptoms or present abruptly with acute hepatitis. In some cases, AIH is discovered incidentally through abnormal liver enzyme results on routine blood testing. Immune Mechanism & Disease Development In autoimmune hepatitis, immune tolerance to liver antigens is lost. Activated immune cells and autoantibodies target hepatocytes, triggering inflammation and cellular injury.

Autoimmune Neutropenia

Autonomic Failure