Medical dictionary

What is being analysed? Beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) is a protein found on the surface of many cells, including those of the immune system. This marker is analysed to assess the level of B2M in the blood, which can provide valuable information about certain health conditions, particularly cancers such as multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, and lymphoma. What does the result me

What is analysed? Beta-amyloid 42 (Aß42) and tau protein are two biomarkers found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease. Aß42 is a peptide, while tau protein is a structural brain protein. The Aß42 and tau protein test measures the concentration of Aß42 and tau protein in CSF. What does the result

What is analysed?Bicarbonate and CO₂ are chemical compounds: Bicarbonate helps maintain the pH balance in the blood and CO₂ (carbon dioxide) is exchanged for oxygen during the gas exchange process.The Bicarbonate and CO₂ test measures the levels of bicarbonate ions and CO₂ in the blood.What does the result mean?The result indicates the concentration of bicarbonate ions and CO₂ in the blood.Why con

What is a bicuspid aortic valve? A bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a heart defect that is present at birth (congenital), which affects the aortic valve. The aortic valve is a valve in the heart where the left ventricle (lower chamber of the heart) meets the aorta (the body’s largest artery, which carries blood out of the heart to the rest of the body). Its purpose is to open when the he

What is being analysed? Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells in the body. It is primarily metabolised in the liver and then excreted in bile.   What does the result mean? The analysis of bilirubin levels in the blood helps assess liver function and detect conditions such as jaundice, liver disease, or haemolytic anaemia.   W

What is binge eating disorder? Binge eating disorder is a serious eating disorder and mental health illness characterised by the regular and compulsive overeating of food in a short amount of time, being unable to stop until uncomfortably full.  Even though everyone has overeaten on certan occasions (for example, during a holiday), what defines binge eating disorder is when this behavio

What is binocular vision disorder?Binocular vision disorder (BVD) occurs when the eyes do not work together effectively to produce a single, clear image. This lack of coordination can make everyday visual tasks more challenging, particularly those that require precise focus or depth perception.Common types include:Convergence insufficiency: difficulty maintaining eye alignment when focusing on nea

What is biofeedback?Biofeedback is based on the idea that by becoming more aware of your body and the processes going on within it, you can actually control some of those processes. It involves using instruments that provide information on the various systems in your body, such as EMGs, thermometers and electroencephalographs to teach the patient how to control such things as their brainwaves, hea

What is biological therapy? Biological therapy involves using living organisms or substances derived from living organisms in the treatment of diseases, in particular cancer. The treatment consists of using the body’s immune system to act against and destroy cancer cells. The therapy is used to treat numerous types of cancer by slowing down the growth of tumours and preventing the