Medical dictionary

What is anti-reflux surgery?Acid reflux is when the acid of the stomach, used to break down solid food for digestion, leaks out from the stomach and up the oesophageal track. While the occasional acid reflux is not something to be concerned about, acid reflux that happens constantly may be indicative of a disease called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It happens due to a fai

What is being analysed? Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA) are proteins that the immune system produces in response to Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast. The analysis involves detecting the presence and levels of these antibodies in the blood. What does the result mean? The results indicate whether there are elevated levels of ASCA in the bloodstream. Elevated le

What is analysed? Anti-smooth muscle antibodies (SMA) are antibodies that specifically target smooth muscle cells. The presence of SMA may suggest autoimmune hepatitis. The SMA test is used as an initial screen to detect the presence of SMA in the blood and assess the need for additional tests. What does the result mean? The result indicates the presence or absence of SMA in the bl

What it ASLO it and what does it analyse? ASLO is an antibody that recognises foreign substances produced by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. This bacterium is responsible for diseases such as pharyngitis, as well as its complications like rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis. What is it used for? It is used for the diagnosis of Streptococcus pyogenes infection. ASLO values may

What is being analysed here? Antithrombin is being analysed here. It is a protein produced by the liver, necessary for proper blood coagulation. The antithrombin test measures its activity (function) and quantity (antigen) in the blood. It evaluates whether there is a tendency to excessive clotting. What does the result mean? Low antithrombin levels may increase the risk of clotting.

What is being analysed? Antithyroid antibodies are substances produced by the immune system that mistakenly target the thyroid gland. The analysis involves measuring the levels of these antibodies in the blood.   What do elevated levels of antithyroid antibodies indicate? Elevated levels of antithyroid antibodies indicate autoimmune thyroid disease, such as Hashimoto's thy

How is anxiety defined?Anxiety disorder differs from simply feeling anxious, which is a normal response to a stressful situation, like making an important decision, or taking an exam. When anxiety becomes a medical problem, known as anxiety disorder, it can affect people at any time, causing constant fear and worry, often for intangible reasons, and can often make it difficult to ca

What is it? An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal, progressive and permanent dilation of part of the aorta, the largest artery in the body. The dilation of the aorta leads to its weakening over time and, sometimes, to its rupturing. An aneurysm can affect the abdominal tract (abdominal aortic aneurysm) as well as the thorax (thoracic aortic aneurysm).   Prognosis Aortic aneurys

What is aortic root surgery? Aortic root surgery is a surgical procedure for an enlarged aorta, often known as an aortic aneurysm. The aorta is a large blood vessel that transports blood from your heart to your body. The aortic root is the first segment of the aorta as it emerges from the heart. It holds the aortic valve and the coronary arteries.   Why is aortic root surgery do