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Cachexia

Understanding Cachexia: A Complex Metabolic Syndrome Cachexia, also known as wasting syndrome, is a multifaceted metabolic disorder often associated with chronic, life-threatening illnesses like cancer, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is characterized by severe weight loss and muscle wasting, even in individuals who consume adequate nutrition. Unlike regular weight loss, cachexia is largely irreversible through conventional nutritional support or increased caloric intake, making it a challenging condition for both patients and healthcare providers to manage. The term "cachexia" is derived from the Greek words "kakos" meaning "bad" and "hexis" meaning "condition," reflecting the profound physical deterioration that patients experience. In addition to weight loss, cachexia is often accompanied by fatigue, anemia, weakness, and a loss of appetite (anorexia), further complicating the patient's ability to maintain their nutritional needs.

Cancer

Candidiasis

Candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida species, predominantly Candida albicans, is a multifaceted condition that can manifest in various forms depending on the affected body site. Candida species are commensal organisms commonly found in the human microbiota, residing in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and vaginal mucosa. Under normal circumstances, these yeasts coexist harmlessly within these ecosystems, but certain conditions can provoke an overgrowth, leading to candidiasis. The most common forms of this infection include oral thrush, characterized by white, creamy lesions in the mouth or on the tongue, vaginal yeast infections with symptoms like itching, redness, and discharge, and invasive candidiasis, where the yeast enters the bloodstream, potentially affecting various organs. Invasive candidiasis is particularly concerning in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressive drugs, as it can lead to systemic and potentially life-threatening conditions.

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

21 May 2025 Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): A Comprehensive Guide What is Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)? Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to a class of diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels. These conditions include coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, arrhythmias, and cerebrovascular diseases like stroke. CVD is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 18 million deaths each year according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The disease often develops due to the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which restricts blood flow to vital organs and tissues. Types of Cardiovascular Disease: CVD encompasses a variety of conditions, including: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Caused by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, it can lead to chest pain (angina) or heart attacks. Heart Failure: A condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Arrhythmia: Irregular heartbeats, which can be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or erratic.

Catheter-Associated UTI (CAUTI)

Celiac Disease

What is Celiac Disease? Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In people with genetic predisposition, consuming gluten activates the immune system, damaging the villi of the small intestine. This leads to malabsorption of nutrients and a wide range of symptoms. Celiac disease can appear at any age and may be silent, mild, or severe. If untreated, it can lead to long-term complications such as intestinal cancer, infertility, osteoporosis, and other autoimmune conditions. Symptoms of Celiac Disease Symptoms vary greatly between individuals and may be digestive, non-digestive, or even absent.

Central Hypothyroidism

Central Hypothyroidism: Causes, Diagnosis, and Why TSH Alone Can Miss It Central hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid caused by a problem in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus rather than in the thyroid itself. The thyroid is capable of working normally — it is simply not receiving the signal to do so. That single difference changes how the condition is found, how it is confirmed, and which blood test is used to guide treatment. What is central hypothyroidism? In ordinary (primary) hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland underperforms and the pituitary responds by raising TSH. In central hypothyroidism the pituitary or hypothalamus is the source of the problem, so that TSH rise does not happen reliably. The pattern is: Low free T4 TSH that is low, normal, or only mildly raised Usually in the context of known or suspected pituitary or hypothalamic disease The Endocrine Society states that a free T4 below the laboratory reference range, together with a low, normal, or mildly elevated TSH in the setting of pituitary disease, usually confirms the diagnosis.

Cerebral Hemorrhage

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Chlamydia / Gonorrhea (Urethritis)

Chlamydia / Gonorrhea (Urethritis) Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra — the tube that carries urine out of the body. It is most commonly caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (the bacterium responsible for gonorrhea) being the two most important and well-recognized causes. Both infections are common, frequently asymptomatic, and highly treatable — but if left undetected and untreated, they can cause serious complications including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain. Because symptoms can be mild or absent, regular screening is essential, especially if you are under 25 or have new partners. Urethritis caused by gonorrhea is called gonococcal urethritis. Urethritis caused by chlamydia or other non-gonococcal organisms is called non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU). Both can cause identical symptoms, and the two infections frequently co-exist — around 20–40% of people diagnosed with gonorrhea are also infected with chlamydia.

Choledocholithiasis

Cholelithiasis

Understanding Cholelithiasis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Cholelithiasis, commonly known as gallstones, is a prevalent health condition characterized by the formation of stones in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver, responsible for storing bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Gallstones can vary in size, from tiny grains to large stones, and they can cause significant discomfort and complications if not properly managed. Understanding the symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for cholelithiasis is essential for effective management and improved patient outcomes. Symptoms of Cholelithiasis The symptoms of cholelithiasis can range from mild to severe and may vary depending on the size and location of the gallstones. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant, which may radiate to the back or shoulder. This pain, known as biliary colic, often occurs after consuming fatty meals and can last from a few minutes to several hours.

Cholestasis

Cholestatic Liver Disease

Cholesterolosis

Understanding Cholesterolosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Cholesterolosis, often referred to as "strawberry gallbladder," is a condition where cholesterol deposits build up on the gallbladder wall, giving it a speckled appearance similar to that of a strawberry. This condition is commonly associated with cholesterol metabolism disorders and can be a precursor to more serious gallbladder diseases, such as cholecystitis or gallstones. While cholesterolosis itself is usually benign, understanding its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial for managing overall gallbladder health. Symptoms of Cholesterolosis Cholesterolosis often presents without any noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. However, as the condition progresses, some individuals may experience mild to moderate abdominal discomfort. This discomfort is typically felt in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen and can be accompanied by bloating, nausea, and indigestion. In some cases, these symptoms might be mistaken for other gastrointestinal issues.

Chronic Active EBV Infection

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating health condition characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by any underlying medical condition. This fatigue is not alleviated by rest and often worsens with physical or mental activity. CFS affects millions of people worldwide, significantly impacting their quality of life. Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for CFS is essential for managing this challenging condition effectively. Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome The primary symptom of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is persistent, overwhelming fatigue that lasts for six months or longer and is not improved by rest. This fatigue significantly interferes with daily activities and is often accompanied by a range of other symptoms. These can include muscle and joint pain, headaches, and sore throat.

Chronic Infections

At a Glance What it is: Infections that persist for weeks, months, or years despite treatment Common causes: Tuberculosis, Lyme disease, hepatitis B/C, HIV, chronic fungal infections Key symptoms: Persistent fatigue, recurring fever, weight loss, night sweats Lab markers: Elevated white blood cells (especially monocytes and lymphocytes), high CRP/ESR Treatment: Long-term antimicrobial therapy, immune support, and treatment of underlying conditions Note: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss persistent symptoms with your healthcare provider. What Are Chronic Infections? A chronic infection is an infection that persists in your body for weeks, months, or even years—despite your immune system’s attempts to eliminate it. Unlike acute infections (such as a common cold or strep throat), which resolve within days to weeks, chronic infections can evade or suppress immune defenses, allowing the pathogen to survive long-term.

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuritis (HCC)

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is a slowly developing autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the myelin that insulates and protects the body’s nerves. The exact cause isn't known. Common symptoms are gradual weakness or sensation changes in the arms or legs. This might get worse over time, or it might come and go. Early treatment is important to limit disease progression. It includes medicines or other treatments to suppress the immune system.

Chronic Inflammatory Diseases

Chronic inflammatory diseases are a group of conditions characterized by persistent, dysregulated inflammation that can affect multiple tissues and organ systems over time. Unlike acute inflammation—which is a short-term, protective response to injury or infection—chronic inflammation is prolonged and often occurs without a clear external trigger, contributing to tissue damage and disease progression. These conditions encompass a wide spectrum of disorders, including autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus), metabolic disorders (such as type 2 diabetes and obesity-related inflammation), cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and neuroinflammatory conditions. While the underlying causes vary, they share a common feature: an ongoing activation of the immune system that fails to resolve properly. At the biological level, chronic inflammation involves continuous signaling between immune cells, cytokines, and inflammatory pathways. Key mediators include interleukins (e.g., IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Chronic kidney disease

What is Chronic Kidney Disease? Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a common condition that many of us overlook. It’s a progressive disease that gets worse over time if not managed properly. CKD is slow loss of kidney function which filters waste and excess fluid from the blood and produces hormones that control blood pressure. When the kidneys are damaged, these waste products build up in the body and cause many health problems. CKD is divided into 5 stages from mild kidney damage in Stage 1 to complete kidney failure in Stage 5 which may require dialysis or kidney transplant to survive. End stage kidney disease and end stage renal disease is the critical stage where normal kidney function has stopped and requires major medical intervention. The progression of CKD can be slow, often takes years, that’s why early detection and management is key to slowing down the disease and living a good life. Early detection and monitoring is especially important to prevent kidney disease and its complications.

Chronic Liver Disease

Chronic liver disease refers to the progressive deterioration of liver function caused by ongoing injury to liver tissue. Over time, this damage leads to inflammation, fibrosis (scar tissue formation), and eventually cirrhosis—an advanced stage marked by severe structural disruption and impaired blood flow through the liver. The liver is a critical organ responsible for over 500 vital functions, including detoxifying harmful substances, producing clotting factors and immune proteins, metabolizing nutrients and medications, regulating blood sugar, storing vitamins and minerals, producing bile for digestion, and synthesizing cholesterol and lipids. As liver function declines, widespread systemic effects can occur. Chronic liver disease affects millions globally and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Cirrhosis ranks among the top causes of death worldwide. Because symptoms often appear late, it is frequently referred to as a “silent disease.”

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

Understanding Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): A Comprehensive Guide What is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)? Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, specifically targeting a subset of white blood cells known as lymphocytes. These cells are part of the immune system and play a crucial role in fighting infections. In CLL, these lymphocytes become abnormal, multiply uncontrollably, and fail to function properly, crowding out healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. CLL is considered a slow-growing leukemia, meaning that it progresses more gradually compared to other types of leukemia. Key Facts About CLL Common in older adults: CLL primarily affects individuals over the age of 60, and it is rare in younger populations. Slow progression: Many people with CLL live for years without needing treatment because the disease progresses slowly. Chronic condition: While CLL is not typically curable, it can be managed effectively in many cases.

Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia (CML)

Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

What Is Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia? Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a type of blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow and leads to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. It develops slowly over time and is considered a chronic leukemia. These abnormal cells can accumulate in the blood and crowd out healthy blood cells, affecting the body’s ability to fight infections, carry oxygen, and control bleeding. CML is strongly associated with a specific genetic abnormality known as the Philadelphia Chromosome, which drives the uncontrolled growth of leukemia cells. What Happens in the Body In CML, a genetic change in bone marrow stem cells creates the Philadelphia chromosome, which produces an abnormal protein (BCR-ABL). This protein acts as a constantly active signal that tells cells to grow and divide uncontrollably.

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a type of blood cancer that develops when bone marrow cells acquire a specific genetic mutation, most commonly the Philadelphia chromosome (a fusion of chromosomes 9 and 22 creating the BCR-ABL gene), which causes uncontrolled production of abnormal white blood cells. CML typically progresses through three phases: a chronic phase (which may last for years with few or mild symptoms), an accelerated phase with worsening symptoms and harder-to-control blood counts, and a blast phase (also called blast crisis) that resembles acute leukemia. Early symptoms are often subtle or absent, but as the disease progresses, patients may experience fatigue, weakness, unintentional weight loss, night sweats, fever without infection, abdominal fullness or pain from an enlarged spleen, easy bruising or bleeding, and bone pain.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic Urticaria (Hives)

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a serious liver condition that develops when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, gradually reducing the liver’s ability to filter toxins, produce proteins, and regulate metabolism. It is a major cause of abnormal liver tests, low albumin levels, and unexplained fatigue—and is often first detected through routine blood work before symptoms appear. As scar tissue builds, it disrupts normal liver architecture and blood circulation, impairing overall liver function. This process typically develops over years of chronic liver injury and represents the final stage of many forms of liver disease. Disease Progression Cirrhosis progresses through two main stages: Compensated cirrhosis: The liver is significantly scarred but still able to perform most of its functions. Many individuals have no symptoms, and the condition is often identified through abnormal lab markers. Decompensated cirrhosis: Liver function declines, leading to complications such as fluid buildup, bleeding, and cognitive changes. This stage carries a higher risk of hospitalization and mortality.

CNS Lymphoma

Colorectal Cancer

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)

Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)

Congenital Syphilis

Conn's syndrome

Conn's syndrome, also known as primary hyperaldosteronism, is a health condition characterized by the overproduction of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys. Aldosterone plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by controlling the balance of sodium and potassium in the body. When too much aldosterone is produced, it causes the kidneys to retain sodium and lose potassium, leading to increased water retention, high blood pressure (hypertension), and low potassium levels (hypokalemia). Common symptoms of Conn's syndrome include persistent high blood pressure that is difficult to control, muscle weakness, fatigue, headaches, excessive thirst, and frequent urination. In some cases, patients may also experience tingling or numbness due to the low potassium levels. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure aldosterone and renin levels, as well as imaging studies like CT scans to identify any abnormalities in the adrenal glands.

Constipation

COPD / Chronic Lung Disease

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

COVID-19

Crigler-Najjar syndrome

Crigler-Najjar syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to process bilirubin, a yellow pigment formed by the breakdown of red blood cells. This condition is named after the researchers John Fielding Crigler and Victor Assad Najjar, who first described it in the mid-20th century. Crigler-Najjar syndrome is characterized by a high level of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood, leading to jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes). The condition is caused by mutations in the UGT1A1 gene, which is responsible for encoding an enzyme essential for converting the fat-soluble form of bilirubin into a water-soluble form that can be excreted from the body. Crigler-Najjar syndrome is divided into two types based on its severity and underlying genetic mutations. Type 1 is the more severe form, with little to no enzyme activity, leading to very high levels of bilirubin in the blood from a young age.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's Disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by transmural inflammation, which can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, though it most frequently affects the terminal ileum and the beginning of the colon. Unlike Ulcerative Colitis, another form of IBD, Crohn's Disease often presents with patchy areas of inflammation, with segments of normal tissue in between, a pattern known as skip lesions. The etiology of Crohn's Disease is complex and multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, environmental factors, an abnormal immune response, and alterations in the gut microbiome. Symptoms of Crohn's Disease are diverse and can include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue. The disease can also manifest extraintestinal symptoms, such as arthritis, skin disorders, and eye inflammation. The transmural nature of the inflammation in Crohn's Disease can lead to complications like strictures, fistulas, and abscesses.

Cryoglobulinemia

Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is a medical condition that arises when your body is exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol for a long period of time. Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," is produced in the adrenal glands located above your kidneys and plays a crucial role in managing various functions in your body, including regulating metabolism, reducing inflammation, and helping the body respond to stress. However, when too much cortisol circulates in the bloodstream, it can lead to a range of symptoms and health issues that characterize Cushing's syndrome. The symptoms of Cushing's syndrome can be varied and affect different parts of the body. Common signs include weight gain, particularly around the midsection and upper back, a rounded face often described as a "moon face," and pink or purple stretch marks on the skin. People with Cushing's syndrome may also experience high blood pressure, bone loss leading to fractures, and changes in skin texture and appearance, such as acne or thinner skin that bruises easily.

Cysticercosis

Cysticercosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment What is Cysticercosis Human cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. You get it when you eat the eggs from the tapeworm through contaminated food or water and develop cysticercosis. Once inside the body the eggs hatch and the larvae travel through the blood stream and embed themselves in muscles, skin, eyes and the central nervous system. When they infect the brain it’s called neurocysticercosis which is the most severe and can cause neurological symptoms. Lifecycle of Taenia Solium The lifecycle of Taenia solium involves both human and pig hosts. The solium eggs are passed out in the feces of an infected human. When pigs eat these eggs they hatch into larvae which then penetrate the intestinal wall and migrate to various tissues and form cysts. Humans can get infected by eating undercooked pork with these cysts and the larvae will develop into adult tapeworms in the intestine.

Cystitis (Bladder Infection)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a member of the Herpesviridae family, is a prevalent pathogen with a wide-ranging impact on human health. Characterized by its ability to establish lifelong latent infections with periodic reactivations, CMV primarily infects epithelial and endothelial cells, as well as leukocytes. It is transmitted through bodily fluids like saliva, urine, blood, and semen, making it highly communicable in close-contact settings. Clinically, CMV can be asymptomatic in healthy individuals, but it poses significant risks in immunocompromised populations, such as HIV/AIDS patients, organ transplant recipients, and newborns with congenital CMV infection. In these high-risk groups, CMV can cause severe manifestations, including retinitis, pneumonitis, and gastrointestinal disease. Congenital CMV, acquired in utero, is a leading cause of sensorineural hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Diagnosis of CMV infection is typically through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, detecting viral DNA, or by serological methods assessing specific CMV antibodies.