Medical dictionary

What is pleural effusion?   Around the lungs, there is a thin membrane called the pleural. Usually, there is a small amount of fluid in this space but if excess fluid builds up, this is known as pleural effusion. It is also referred to as ‘water on the lungs.’ It limits the space the lungs can expand into while breathing in, forcing the patient to take shallow breaths.&nbs

What is analysed in pleural fluid testing? Pleural fluid analysis involves the examination of various components present in the fluid surrounding the lungs and lining the pleural cavity. Key components include cells, proteins, glucose, and other biochemical markers. How are the results interpreted? Interpreting the results of pleural fluid analysis is essential for understanding

What is pleural mesothelioma? Pleural mesothelioma is a rare malignant tumour affecting the pleura, the lining which surrounds each lung and the chest’s internal walls. The main cause of pleural mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral which was often used for insulation or roofing. When it is extracted or removed, asbestos releases a fine dust that, if breathed in, can cause se

What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an acute inflammatory condition of one or both of the lungs caused by infection. It primarily affects the alveoli which are the small air sacs deep in the lungs, where oxygen passes into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide passes out back into the lungs. In people with pneumonia, these air sacs become inflamed and fill with fluid or pus.  What causes

What is pneumothorax?Pneumothorax is the medical term for a collapsed lung. This occurs when air is present in the space between the lungs and the rib cage, which is known as the pleural space. This causes a loss of lung volume, as the pressure that keeps the lungs inflated is disrupted by air accumulating in the pleural space.Air within the pleural space can come from the lung itself, or from out

What is podiatry? Podiatry is the medical specialty that studies diseases and disorders affecting the feet. Health professionals of this branch responsible for diagnosing and treating the different conditions and deformities using therapeutic techniques typical of podiatry, or referring to the appropriate specialist. What diseases does do podiatrists treat? The most frequent foot trea

What is poisoning? Poisoning refers to accidental contact with toxic substances that may lead to serious health problems, possibly becoming life-threatening. With regard to paediatric poisoning, the majority of cases usually occur at home by ingestion of medications, cleaning products or gardening products. Poisoning is a common reason for paediatric consultations; in the last few years, the ra

What is the POLD method? The POLD method is an advanced physiotherapy technique that treats chronic lower-back pain, as well as other injuries, conditions and diseases. These include: Fibromyalgia; Sprains; Tendonitis; Impingements; Scoliosis; Herniated discs due to osteoarthritis or muscular overload, for example.   What is involved in the POLD method? Be

What is PKD? Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic kidney disorder in which large cysts (big fluid sacs) form on the kidneys. These cysts increase kidney size and reduce functional tissue.    You should see a nephrologist for treatment. What are the symptoms? There are some cases where the symptoms are so mild that the person doesn’t realise they have this co