Medical dictionary

What is being analysed? Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in various tissues, especially in the liver, heart, and muscles. It plays a crucial role in the conversion of aspartate and alpha-ketoglutarate to oxaloacetate and glutamate. AST is analysed to assess the health of these tissues and organs. What does the result mean? Interpreting the results of AST analysis is

What is Asperger's syndrome? Asperger’s syndrome, also known as Asperger syndrome, is a type of high functioning autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the name given to a range of similar conditions which affect how a person interacts socially, their communication, behaviour, and interests. Generally, symptoms of Asperger’s syndrome present before the age of three in childre

What is aspergillosis?Aspergillosis is an infection, allergic reaction, or fungal growth caused by aspergillus mould. This mould can be found in many places (soil, air, plants, decomposing organic matter, dust and food). The most common types of aspergillosis are aspergillosis fumigatus and aspergillosis flavus. The most complex type is pulmonar aspergillosis since it invades and damages all

What is assertiveness? Assertiveness is defined as the ability to express yourself in an open, calm, and direct way whilst still respecting others. It’s considered to be an important quality in everyday life, from relationships at work or with family and friends. Assertiveness is the middle ground of communicating between a passive style and an aggressive style.   Many people m

What is assisted reproductive technology (ART)?Assisted reproductive technology (ART) aims to help women that want to become pregnant who may have had some difficulties in doing so through sexual intercourse alone. Some of these techniques include artificial insemination or in vitro fertilisation (IVF). There are a variety of treatments, but it depends on the individual circums

What is asthma? Asthma is a condition which occurs when the upper airways constrict as a result of a particular trigger, for example, an extreme reaction to some sort of allergen/stimulus such as viral infections, pollen, or overwhelming stress or exercise. Asthma can present at any age though it is usually not diagnosed in early childhood (especially infants) unless there is a strong fa

What is asthma in children? Asthma is a common pulmonary condition that often begins during childhood. The lungs and airways become inflamed and produce mucus when exposed to certain triggers. Common triggers include allergies, colds and exercise.   What are the symptoms? Difficulties breathing or shortness of breath Tightness in the chest Congestion Intermi

What is astigmatism? Astigmatism is a condition where the shape of your eye is more like a rugby ball than a football, causing blurriness in vision. People with astigmatism are generally born with it, but sometimes the condition can develop as a result of surgery, injury, or an illness. Astigmatism is usually accompanied with long-sightedness or short-sightedness. What are the

What is ataxia? Ataxia is the term for a group of neurological disorders that affect muscle control, causing difficulties with balance, coordination and speech. There are different types of the disorders that can affect people in different ways. Any part of the body can be affected by ataxia but overall people have difficulties with: Balance and walking: People with ataxia have