Medical dictionary

What is cubital tunnel syndrome? Cubital tunnel syndrome (a form of ulnar nerve entrapment or ulnar neuropathy) is a condition in which the ulnar nerve becomes trapped or compressed. This nerve runs from your neck, through the elbow, to your hand, connecting to the little finger and half of the ring finger. It is the largest nerve in the body unprotected by muscle or bone, and due to its relati

What is Cushing's syndrome? Cushing's syndrome is a rare, progressive disease that occurs due to chronic and excessive production of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is naturally synthesised (produced) in the human body by the adrenal glands and helps with regulating blood pressure, converting food into energy, controlling the immune system’s inflammatory response and handling str

What is CyberKnife? CyberKnife is a robotics system for performing radiotherapy invented by American neurosurgeon John R. Adler. It is unique due to its precision when treating tumours, allowing higher doses of radiation to be accurately delivered to the tumour, while minimising damage to the surrounding tissue and requiring fewer treatment sessions than conventional radiotherapy. &

What is analysed? Cyclosporine analysis involves measuring the concentration of cyclosporine in the blood to monitor its levels in patients undergoing cyclosporine therapy. What does the result mean? The result indicates the concentration of cyclosporine in the bloodstream. It helps assess the drug's therapeutic levels and potential toxicity. Why undergo the analysis? Cyclos

What is analysed? Cystatin C analysis involves measuring the concentration of cystatin C in the blood to assess kidney function. What does the result mean? The result indicates the level of cystatin C in the bloodstream, which reflects the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and provides an estimate of kidney function. Why undergo the analysis? Cystatin C analysis is performed to e

What is a cystectomy? Cystectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the bladder. Cystectomies can be divided into two types, depending on the reason for the excision and the amount of tissue removed: Radical cystectomy – the whole bladder is removed along with the some of the surrounding tissue and lymph nodes. In men, this can include the prostate and seminal vesicles, while

What is cystic fibrosis? Cystic fibrosis is a condition in which the lungs progressively collapse due to a build-up of thick and sticky mucus, it can also affect the digestive tube and other organs. It is one of the most common chronic lung diseases in adults and children.    This type of disease affects the lungs, the pancreas, liver, intestines, paranasal sinuses, and sexual orga

What is being analysed in this test? Cystic fibrosis gene mutation test is a genetic test that examines the DNA for mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. This gene provides instructions for making a protein that regulates the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. Mutations in the CFTR gene can lead to cystic fibrosis (CF), a p

What is cystitis? Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by a bacterial infection. The bladder is an important organ, that, along with the kidneys, ureters and urethra, make up the urinary system, which is responsible for filtering and removing bodily waste. Cystitis often causes acute or sudden pain. Although it is not a serious condition, more sinister complications can de