Medical dictionary

What is anorexia? Anorexia nervosa, more commonly known as simply anorexia, is a serious eating disorder and psychological condition characterised by the desire of the individual to keep as low a body weight as possible. It is a mental health disorder associated with low weight, a fear of gaining weight, and control over diet and exercise. In those with anorexia, a high value is placed upo

What is anorgasmia? Anorgasmia is a consistent inability or difficulty in reaching orgasm, even with abundant sexual stimulation. It is one of the most common sexual disorders in women. It can occur in men, although less frequently. The different types of anorgasmia are: Lifelong anorgasmia - when a person has never achieved orgasm Acquired anorgasmia - when a person was able to

What is antenatal care? Antenatal care or prenatal care is the care a woman receives while pregnant to ensure that both mother and baby are as healthy as possible. It involves regular check-ups with a doctor or midwife, with scans, screenings, and blood tests to check on the development of the baby and identify any health problems in either mother or child that could cause problems. Pregn

What is the anterior cruciate ligament?The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a bundle of collagen fibres that extends obliquely between the femur and the tibia. It inserts into the knee joint and, although small in size, it has a very important function. The anterior cruciate ligament (front) and the posterior cruciate ligament (back) cross each other forming an "X".  Function of the a

What is an anterior hip replacement? All hip replacement surgeries remove the damaged hip joint to replace it with prosthetic components to improve the hip’s function. Hip replacements can differ in the surgical procedure. An anterior hip replacement replaces the worn-out joint, removing the diseased joint and bone and inserting a new ball and socket joint. The anterior approa

What is an anthropometric study? An anthropometric study is composed of a series of tests or data-points of an individual that shows aspects and measures of their composition and state of their health. In this way, their general health is revealed, particularly at a nutritional level. An allergist usually carries out an anthropometric study. What does it consist of? The study is ba

In the intricate network of the neuromuscular junction, the presence of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies serves as a significant marker for various autoimmune disorders. What is analysed? Anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies are meticulously analysed to detect the presence of antibodies targeting acetylcholine receptors on muscle cells. What does the result mean? The result

What is anti-ageing? Anti-ageing is a treatment to delay or stop the ageing process. There are many treatments that can help combat ageing, using both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Damage from too much sun exposure can take its toll and be responsible for most of the visible ageing of the skin. As well as photo-ageing, repeatedly spending time in the sun with lack of sunscreen can lead

What is analysed? An antibiogram is a laboratory test that analyses the effectiveness of various antibiotics against bacteria isolated from a patient's sample. It helps determine which antibiotics are most suitable for treating a particular infection.   What does the result mean? The results of an antibiogram indicate the sensitivity or resistance of the bacteria to specif