Medical dictionary

The adrenal glands are essential for a life that lie at the back of the kidneys. The function of the adrenal glands is, among others, the production of some sex hormones, and particularly hormones that regulate metabolism and cortisol, which helps us respond to stress, and other hormones that control blood pressure and the presence of water and salt in our body. Sometimes there is an excessive or

What is adult circumcision? Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the retractable fold of skin that covers the tip of the penis (foreskin). Although the procedure is normally performed in children for religious or cultural reasons, many adults undergo circumcision for medical purposes. Circumcision in women is referred to as female genital mutilation and has been outlawed by the UK gover

What is andrology?Andrology is a medical specialty which deals with the male reproductive system and urological problems found only in men. Andrology is the direct equivalent of gynaecology, but unlike gynaecology, it is not widely recognised as its own distinct speciality. Andrology has been studied only since the late end of the 1960s. What conditions does an andrologist treat?Andrologists

What is the andropause? Andropause, also known as the male menopause or Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TDS), consists of a reduction in the level of testosterone in men aged between 40 and 55 years, inclusive. This phenomenon may be accompanied by changes that occur gradually over time: including diminished sexual ability, changes in attitude and mood; fatigue; loss of energy, of sexual desi

What is Aquablation? Aquablation is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It involves using a high-velocity water jet to remove excess prostate tissue. BPH can lead to urinary symptoms such as difficulty in urination, increased frequency, and incomplete emptying of the bladder.     Aquablation is particularly beneficial

What is it? Balanitis is a skin irritation on the glans penis (the head of the penis). The inflammation causes redness, pain, itching and swelling to the tip of the penis. It can affect men and boys. Balanitis can be caused by fungi (Candidal balanitis), by bacteria (Gardnerella or Trichomonas vaginalis), by a trauma or an irritation or by dryness (thus causing a contact allergic reaction).

What is nocturnal enuresis in children? Nocturnal enuresis is the medical term for what is commonly known as bedwetting. It is quite common during childhood (10 per cent in 7 year-olds) and is twice as common in boys. There is often a positive family history. Prognosis of nocturnal enuresis The outlook for nocturnal enuresis is excellent and spontaneous resolution occurs in

What is benign prostatic enlargement? Benign prostatic enlargement occurs when the size of the prostate gland increases due to a hormonal imbalance in men. The prostate is the male sex gland that surrounds the urethra. It is located below the bladder and above the rectum, and is responsible for producing seminal fluid. Prostatic hyperplasia is a common pathology in men over 

What is bladder cancer? Bladder cancer is a relatively common type of cancer, which involves the growth of abnormal tissue (a tumour) in the bladder tissue. Bladder cancer is often described by how far it has moved into the bladder wall. It can either be non-invasive or invasive. Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer is the most common type, in which the cancerous cells are contained within the