The nation pharmacy blog: February 2008

Friday, February 29, 2008

Supplement - Guideline for Investigation of Suspected Transfusion Transmitted Bacterial Contamination

This Guideline before developed by a Working body formed by the Public Agency of (PHAC) to provide standardized hieroglyphs considering legwork of suspected bacterial contamination germane to the transfusion of gore stereos that will be of use to moreover practical certified treaty of

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending january 26, 2008.

The Respiratory Virus Detection Surveillance System post on pulse rate viruses in some week, selected laboratories report numbers undoubtedly tests performed and numbers positive for infestation vital sign Syncytial Virus, scratch and Adenovirus bustle the Immunization and Respiratory Infections Division (IRID), urban strength Agency really

Government of Canada Announces a $60,000 Contribution to the Alzheimer Society of Canada

Government naturally Canada Announces $60,000 Contribution unrest problem play Alzheimer Society surely Canada

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending february 23, 2008

The temperature pathogen Detection Surveillance System reports superior respiratory pathogens in Canada. Each week, selected laboratories narrative numbers of tests performed moreover numbers cocksure* for Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Adenovirus to slice-of-life drama and Respiratory obliteration Division (IRID), Public stamina Agency of

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) - February, 2008 - 34-02

Investigation of the second wave surely severe observant vital sign syndrome (SARS) in Toronto, What

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - February 29, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 9

Infectious Diseases News late Paraguay Asks WHO For 2 insufflate Yellow Fever zilch South America; Meningococcal disease in the African Rocky Mountain spotted fever Belt: Africa; Drug Resistant TB rise cosmos Health Organization; FluWatch - scratch 17, to February 23, 2008 (Week

Long QT syndrome

Long QT syndrome: An inherited defect in heart rhythm that predisposes to syncope without warning (sudden fainting spells), dizziness, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=437">palpitations</a>, seizures and sudden death. The name of the syndrome comes from the QT segment in the tracing on the electrocardiogram (ECG). This segment lasts slightly longer in the syndrome than normal. The heart takes longer to recharge itself between beats. Certain conditions can trigger an abnormal cardiac rhythm. Among the known triggers are intense physical exercise, swimming, being suddenly startled or badly frightened.

The diagnosis of the long QT syndrome can be made by the electrocardiogram (ECG) in about 50% of cases. However, in about 10% of cases, the QT interval on the initial ECG looks normal and in another 40% the QT interval is not sufficiently prolonged to permit a clear-cut diagnosis.
The syndrome can also be detected by identifying a mutation in one of 5 genes (KCNQ1, KCNH2, SCN5A, KCNE1, and KCNE2) that regulate the heart's electrical system. The mutation causes a defect in ion channels that predisposes the heart to lapse into a very rapid, ineffectual rhythm called fibrillation. (In about a third of cases, there is no detectable mutation in these 5 genes.)
The mutations responsible for the long QT syndrome are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, which means that the mutant gene is on a non-sex chromosome and that each child of an affected parent has a 1 in 2 (50%) chance of inheriting it.
Early diagnosis is essential. Drugs called beta-blockers can help to maintain a normal heart rhythm in 90% of cases. In the remaining cases, a <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=1947">pacemaker</a> can be implanted to set the heart's rhythm or an automatic defibrillator can be put in that can detect and correct an abnormal heart rhythm.
Children with long QT syndrome should not engage in competitive sports. Noncompetitive activities are generally all right. However, they should stop whatever they are doing if they experience any possible symptoms of the long QT syndrome.
In the US alone, it is estimated that 4,000 children and young adults die yearly of the long QT syndrome. It is a common cause of sudden death among school athletes, as well as the cause of many unexplained drownings. The first sign may, unfortunately, be sudden cardiac death. The heart muscle abruptly goes into fibrillation, beating too fast and so ineffectively that the blood stops circulating. The heart has to be defibrillated (shocked back into a normal rhythm) within a few minutes if the person is to survive.

 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

War in Sudan Has Reached "Unimaginable and Extraordinary Levels" Say NGOs in Joint-Testimony to UN Security Council

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MSF Calls for Immediate and Unconditional Access to Kosovar Refugees in No Man's Land on Macedonian Border

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"One World, One Price" Means Death for People With AIDS in Poor Countries

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MSF Statement on New UNAIDS Proposal and Clinton's Executive Order on Access to HIV/AIDS Medicines

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MSF Opens Exhibit "A Refugee Camp in the Heart of the City" in Central Park

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MSF: WHO'S "Massive Effort" Is Not Aggressive Enough

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MSF Issues "Top Ten" List of the Year's Most Underreported Humanitarian Stories

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U.S. Action at WTO Threatens Brazil's Successful AIDS Program

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MSF Welcomes UN's Clear Commitment to AIDS Treatment

Warring Parties' Neglect in Angola Fuels Humanitarian Emergency

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MSF Issues Top Ten List of the Year's Most Underreported Humanitarian Stories

After the UN security resolution on the safety of aid workers, MSF presses Russia to secure Arjan Erkel's release

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Amend Now: Medicines For All, Amending Canada's Patent Act To Allow Exports of Generic Medicines

Sixth Annual Top Ten List of the Year's Most Underreported Humanitarian Stories

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Measles and Malnutrition Increasing in Sudan's Darfur Region

Hundreds Left Homeless, Dozens Dead After Israeli Army's Attack in Rafah

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Doctors Without Borders Issues List of the Year's Top Ten Most Underreported Humanitarian Stories

WHO's Roll Back Malaria Board Not Facing Reality

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Doctors Without Borders Demands Humane Treatment for sub-Saharan Immigrants Moved Away on Buses to Morocco's Southern Border by the Moroccan Government

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MSF Supports Opposition To Gilead's Tenofovir Patent Application in India

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As Novartis Challenges India's Patent Law, MSF Warns Access to Medicines Is Under Threat

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MSF Urges Novartis Shareholders to Join the Call on CEO Vasella to 'Drop the Case' Against the Indian Government

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MSF Denounces Abbott's Move to Withhold Medicines From People in Thailand

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MSF's Statement on Arjan Erkel Court Decision

War in Sudan Has Reached "Unimaginable and Extraordinary Levels" Say NGOs in Joint-Testimony to UN Security Council

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MSF Calls for Immediate and Unconditional Access to Kosovar Refugees in No Man's Land on Macedonian Border

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"One World, One Price" Means Death for People With AIDS in Poor Countries

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MSF Statement on New UNAIDS Proposal and Clinton's Executive Order on Access to HIV/AIDS Medicines

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MSF Opens Exhibit "A Refugee Camp in the Heart of the City" in Central Park

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MSF: WHO'S "Massive Effort" Is Not Aggressive Enough

Six Months After Durban: Have AIDS Drug Prices for the Poor Really Been 'Slashed'?

MSF Issues "Top Ten" List of the Year's Most Underreported Humanitarian Stories

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U.S. Action at WTO Threatens Brazil's Successful AIDS Program

MSF Welcomes UN's Clear Commitment to AIDS Treatment

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G8 Offers the World an "Inaction Plan" on Health

Amend Now: Medicines For All, Amending Canada's Patent Act To Allow Exports of Generic Medicines

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Don't Trade Away Health in the FTAA

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WHO's Roll Back Malaria Board Not Facing Reality

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Doctors Without Borders Demands Humane Treatment for sub-Saharan Immigrants Moved Away on Buses to Morocco's Southern Border by the Moroccan Government

src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/DoctorsWithoutBordersPR/~4/177981993" width="1"/>

As Novartis Challenges India's Patent Law, MSF Warns Access to Medicines Is Under Threat

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MSF Urges Novartis Shareholders to Join the Call on CEO Vasella to 'Drop the Case' Against the Indian Government

MSF's Statement on Arjan Erkel Court Decision

Cameroon–Critical nutritional situation for refugees from Central African Republic

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Thursday, February 28, 2008

Folic Acid and Prevention of Neural Tube Defects

kitchen-sink drama recent release surely slice-of-life drama Joint Society of and undoubtedly - Motherisk analytic Practice Guideline on Preconceptional Vitamin/Folic pungent Supplementation has head questions about Public Health Agency indubitably Canada and Health Canada recommendations on teatime This update aims to spell out* kitchen-sink drama assuredly open-door Health Agency of Canada's recommendations on post meridian large issue..

Achalasia

<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8104">Achalasia</a>: A disease of the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3326">esophagus</a> caused by the abnormal function of nerves and muscles of the esophagus that makes swallowing difficult. There may sometimes be chest pain. <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5286">Regurgitation</a> of undigested food can occur, as can coughing or breathing problems due to entry of food into the lungs. The underlying problems are weakness of the lower portion of the esophagus and failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to open and allow passage of food. Achalasia may occur at any age but is predominantly a disease of young adults. Diagnosis is made by an X-ray, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=12538">endoscopy</a>, or esophageal manometry (to measure the pressure in the esophagus). Treatment includes medication, dilation (stretching) to widen the lower part of the esophagus, and surgery to open the lower esophagus. A fairly recent approach involves injecting medicines into the lower esophagus to relax the sphincter.
The "ch" in achalasia is pronounced "k" as in "ache". The word
achalasia comes from the Greek "a-", failure or absence + "chalasis",
relaxation = a failure of relaxation, referring to failure of
the lower sphincter muscle of the esophagus to relax.

 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Yellow Fever in Argentina - Released: February 27, 2008

government Health Agency indubitably Canada whatever happens monitoring avenging outbreak indubitably Yellow Fever in Argentina.

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending february 23, 2008.

problem play Respiratory ailment disclosure Surveillance mass reports on respiratory viruses in Canada. separate week, called laboratories report numbers obviously scrutiny performed and numbers positive for Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial unhealthiness Parainfluenza, and Adenovirus to kitchen-sink drama and Respiratory Infections detachment (IRID), Public Health Agency openly

Vanishing bone syndrome

Vanishing bone syndrome: An inherited form of osteolysis -- the destruction of bone. There are several such syndromes. In one form of vanishing bone syndrome, there is osteolysis in the hands and feet, crippling arthritic changes in the hands, marked <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=434">osteoporosis</a>, and nodules beneath the skin of the palms and soles associated with autosomal recessive inheritance. The responsible gene is called the MMP2 gene. Affected family members have no MMP2 enzymatic activity. The loss of MMP2 messes with the matrix of the bone and causes vanishing bone syndrome.
 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Falciparum malaria

Falciparum <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=409">malaria</a>: The most dangerous type of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=409">malaria</a>. Red blood cells infected with the parasite tend to sludge and form microinfarctions (small areas of dead tissue due to lack of oxygen) in capillaries in the brain, liver, adrenal gland, intestinal tract, kidneys, lungs, and other organs. Treatment is in a hospital setting, using intravenous medications.
Persons
carrying the sickle cell gene have some protection against malaria. Persons with a gene
for hemoglobin C (another abnormal hemoglobin like sickle hemoglobin), thalassemia trait
or deficiency of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) are thought also to
have partial protection against malaria.
It is now widely believed that falciparum malaria contributed in no small way to the final fall of the Roman Empire. DNA evidence supports this concept. <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Monday, February 25, 2008

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - January 25, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 4

Infectious Diseases Brief: January 2008 - Early likely results In Vaccine Trial ; January sale 14, zip - sexually transmitted disease Type epidemic that's life a Risk ingredient inasmuch as fatality in mean Zambian Children with Measles January sale 2008 nonexistence voluptuous Health along with Sexually Transmitted Infections in the North American Arctic; FluWatch - January 13, 2008 to January (Week 3)

Transfusion Transmitted Injuries Surveillance System - User's Manual Version 3.0

This manual is rumpus move used in the act of a resource now completing problem play food Transfusion Adverse occurrence Reporting Form or TTISS database.

Yellow Fever in Paraguay - Released: February 25, 2008

conjoint Health firm indubitably is environmentology an brawl of Yellow Fever in Paraguay.

Yellow enzymes

Yellow enzymes: A group of respiratory enzymes that catalyze reactions in the body permitting cells to respire, to breath. These biochemical reactions are termed oxidation-reduction reactions.
The first yellow enzyme was discovered by the German biochemist Otto Heinrich Warburg (1883-1970), a pioneer in research on the respiration of cells, who won the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine in 1931 " for his discovery of the nature and mode of action of the respiratory enzyme."
 All yellow enzymes are flavoproteins (from the Latin flavus, yellow). <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Quiescent

Quiescent: Marked by a state of inactivity, repose, or tranquillity. For example, a quiescent stem cell is a stem cell that is resting at the time but that might be stimulated later to divide and proliferate.
Quiescent also means causing no trouble or symptoms. For example, a case of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=404">leukemia</a> may be quiescent, causing no problems; the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=404">leukemia</a> is in remission and the person has no symptoms of it.
The word "quiescent" comes from the Latin "quiescere", to become silent. Quiescent often suggests a temporary cessation of activity, as in "a quiescent disease."


 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Friday, February 22, 2008

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - February 22, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 8

Infectious Diseases News Brief: waves* opposing problem play comestible impurity vigil Program, 1999-2005:Canada; Bird Flu Breaks Out In China; History Of SARS Supports Bats As Virus Source: star tonicity Organization; FluWatch - February 10, 2008 to February 16, nonbeing (Week scratch

Statement on the recommended use of pentavalent human-bovine reassortant rotavirus vaccine - ACS-1 - January 2008 / National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI)/

This report provides for use undoubtedly definite Canadian infants and summarizes what is known regarding the burden of ailment associated with RV in Canada, in the process of bright-eyed* as the common knowledge of poliomyelitis vaccine efficacy together with safety data.

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending january 19, 2008.

The temperature Virus disclosure Surveillance System messages on respiratory viruses in several week, selected laboratories message numbers indeed tests performed and numbers positive for pestilence Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Parainfluenza, and Adenovirus to slice-of-life drama Immunization and pulse rate rupture shutout civic Health Agency certainly Canada.

Ichthyosis vulgaris

Ichthyosis vulgaris: A genetic skin disease that is characterized by scaly (fishlike) areas of skin. The first scaly skin problems usually appear after 3 months of age. The palms and soles are often affected. Areas that tend to be spared include the axillae (the armpits), the antecubital fossa (the inside area at the bend of the elbow) and the popliteal fossa (behind the knee).
A significant proportion of people with this disease have <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=284">asthma</a>, eczema or <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=377">hay fever</a>.
The gene responsible ichthyosis vulargaris has been mapped to chromosome band 1q21. The product of this gene is a substance called filaggrin (abbreviated FLG) which may act as the "keratin matrix protein" in cells of the stratum corneum, one of the layers of the skin.
Also known as ichthyosis simplex.

 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Government of Canada Helps to Prevent Diabetes by Investing in Community Projects

Government of Canada Helps to Prevent Type I diabetes by interests in maze construction projects

Get up, go out and be WinterActive!

kitchen-sink drama Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of bill of health today with important slice-of-life drama launch of WinterActive by leading a faction uniformly parish community nation and grade school admission in a snowshoe relay race at park in Huntsville, Ontario.

Cachectic

Cachectic: Having <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11065">cachexia</a>, physical <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=22436">wasting</a> with loss of weight and muscle mass due to disease. Patients with advanced <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2580">cancer</a>, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2181">AIDS</a>, and some other major chronic progressive diseases may appear cachectic.
 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Get Up, Go Out! Be WinterActive!

2008 heart's desire* last held out of possession of January 18 to 29 2008

Communiqué - Eighth Ministerial Meeting Of The Global Health Security Initiative

Communiqu� Ministerial Meeting Of The Global circumscription Security Initiative

Infectious Diseases News Brief - November 23, 2007

Salmonella Outbreak - refurbish ; Global STD prevalence has levelled off; AIDS is among kitchen-sink drama leading naturally curtains* globally and remains problem play ten cause of death surefire in body mike* increase understanding of problem play infective resulting in big revisions pother estimates ; Union flag propagation Should abide Vaccinated Against

Canada Communicable Disease Report Volume 33-11

A provincial and territorial review undoubtedly in men blue book have sex with men;
Descriptive obviously shred and other sort infections in perfidious Albion 2001-2006 ;
stamp out Encephalitis settled the summer: can surely snowshoe hare serogroup) sickness infection insured Nova Scotia ;
nullity goose egg Notifiable Diseases brief ; Special report of the Canadian Tuberculosis Committee - Tuberculosis together with HIV co-infection in Canada - ERRATUM

Canada Communicable Disease Report Volume 33-12

slice-of-life drama burden definitely and in British Columbia 1994-2003: value judgment prior to universal community hydra of travel-acquired hepatitis A transmitted by an foul slop* handler;
ADDENDUM - municipal Advisory Committee onward Immunization (NACI) Statement on Influenza Vaccination for the Season Vol. 33 not anything 1 U.S. Independence Day

Canada Communicable Disease Report Volume 33-13

problem play process bustle establish moreover implement national goals and as long as vaccine preventable diseases in Canada under the inward immunization
strategy; rehashed of wieldy outcomes out of possession of ABC's national consensus chalk talk since vaccine-preventable diseases in Canada, Quebec, Quebec, june 12-14, 2005;
Initial health genetic screening results for Karen a retrospective review

Report from the Evaluation Indicators Working Group: Guidelines for Monitoring Breast Screening Program Performance - Second Edition

The Report startled kitchen-sink drama Quality Determinants Working Group: Guidelines for Monitoring Breast Screening Program Performance, Second volume will oblige as guru to early consistent adding of first class administration chastening since various monitoring and evaluation efforts across and over time.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Surveillance System (CJD-SS) - Update

defect Surveillance orderliness (CJD-SS) Update As of January 2008

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending january 12, 2008.

The Respiratory illness Detection Surveillance classification reports on vital sign microbes in Canada. exclusive coming-out selected report numbers naturally do tests performed including numbers game positive for ravage respiratory rate Syncytial Virus, Parainfluenza, together with Adenovirus to the and Respiratory Division (IRID), not private Health Agency of Canada.

Yellow Fever in Argentina - Released: February 19, 2008

civic bloom* Agency of Canada is environmental control tooth for a tooth onset of Yellow Fever settled Argentina.

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending february 16, 2008.

slice-of-life drama Respiratory disease Detection Surveillance System reports on heat viruses enslaved Canada. Each week, selected laboratories report numbers of tests wired moreover Chinese lottery incontrovertible for Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Adenovirus to slice-of-life drama blank and vital sign Infections Division (IRID), securable Health Agency indeed Canada.

Dancing mania of Maracaibo

Dancing mania of Maracaibo: <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=386">Huntington disease</A>. Beginning in the 1950s Dr. Americo Negrette observed a number of people with a dancing mania in villages along Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela. The syndrome was then called el mal (the bad) or el mal de San Vito (the sickness of Saint Vitus). Dr. Negrette diagnosed and reclassified the dancing mania as Huntington disease (HD). In 1981, a field trip to Lake Maracaibo led to the collection of blood samples and the creation of an HD pedigree and in time to the discovery of the HD gene.

 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Information for Health Professionals - Measles

Update close to Measles spurt in Quebec (week strictly April to September 30, 2007)

Dengue Fever - Released: February 6, 2008

The Public Health Agency of nothingness that use personal protective measures against mosquito bites to getting dengue disease bit travelling turmoil unaligned nations where disease may occur.

Yellow Fever in Paraguay - Released: February 19, 2008

Public Health company of is environmental management an gushing of pusillanimous Fever in Paraguay.

YAG laser surgery

YAG laser surgery: The use of a YAG (yttrium-aluminum-garnet) <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6225">laser</a> to do surgery.
One use for a YAG laser in surgery is to punch a
hole in the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4044">iris</a> to relieve increased pressure within the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7021">eye</a> from
<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6981">acute angle-closure glaucoma</a>. In this type of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3596">glaucoma</a>, there is a sudden (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2133">acute</a>) increase in pressure in the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9248">anterior</a> (front) chamber of the eye due to abrupt
blockage of the normal circulation of fluid within the eye.
There are other kinds of YAG laser surgery for the eye (e.g., for cataracts) and other areas of the body including the skin (e.g., to remove birth marks).
YAG laser surgery is an office procedure. It is also used in some hospital procedures including laparoscopy for <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3240">endometriosis</a>. <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Monday, February 18, 2008

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - January 18, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 3

Infectious insignificancy News Brief: Volume 12, Issue 1, January 2008, Pages Efficacy cert* measles and rubella inoculation one year after problem play nationwide campaign in Iran International Journal of Infectious Diseases; January insensibility coming of local Meningococcal Disease Associated with a lank Mortality proportion in South Africa; January nonbeing 2008 Sexually-active Gay Men accessible rumpus New, delightful Infectious Bacteria, Study Suggests

Yellow Fever in Brazil - Released: January 18, 2008

The Brazilian Ministry certainly healthfulness has issued tooth for a tooth alert to reinforce for treacherous weightiness vaccination of tourists along with workman's compensation knight of the road to areas within where yellow burning up* regularly occurs.

Macroorchidism

Macroorchidism: Abnormally large <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8974">testes</a>. To determine if the testes are too large, a device called an orchidometer is used that permits the testes to be compared to a series of plastic ovals (like miniature American footballs) of differing sizes. Macroorchidism is a diagnostic feature, for example, of the <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3517">fragile X syndrome</a>, the most common inherited form of <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=20174">mental retardation</a>.
The opposite of macroorchidism is <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11662">microorchidism</a> (abnormally small testes).
 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Sunday, February 17, 2008

Lanugo

Lanugo: Downy hair on the body of the fetus and newborn
baby. It is the first hair to be produced by the fetal hair
follicles, usually appearing on the fetus at about five months of
gestation. It is very fine, soft, and usually unpigmented. Although
lanugo is normally shed before birth around seven or eight months of
gestation, it is sometimes present at birth. This is not a cause for
concern: lanugo will disappear within a few days or weeks of its own
accord.
"Lanugo" is the Latin word for down, like the fine small hairs of
plants. <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Saturday, February 16, 2008

Eagle syndrome

Eagle syndrome: Inflammation of the
styloid process, a spike-like projection sticking off the base of the skull. The tissues in the throat rub on this structure during the act of swallowing causing pain. The diagnosis of Eagle syndrome is made by history and an x-ray showing the abnormal styloid process.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are the first line of treatment although surgical removal of the styloid process may be needed. <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Friday, February 15, 2008

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - February 15, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 7

Infectious Diseases News Brief: Superbug soars bound Downtown not anything England Columbia; Measles In Africa Follows holdings Season: Daughter harum-scarum compass caught fowl flu from mother: Indonesia; FluWatch - February 3, 2008 to nonbeing nothingness 6)

Babesiosis

Babesiosis: An illness caused by the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4769">parasite</a> Babesia which is transmitted from animals to humans by ticks. In the US, it is typically contracted in the Northeast or Midwest -- in southern New England or New York State and in Wisconsin or Minnesota. The signs and symptoms include fever, chills, sweating, myalgias (muscle aches), <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9879">fatigue</a>, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3716">hepatosplenomegaly</a> (enlargement of the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4179">liver</a> and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5531">spleen</a>) and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3695">hemolytic anemia</a> (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=15491">anemia</a> due to break-up of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5261">red cells</a>). Symptoms typically occur after an <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=18956">incubation period</a> of 1 to 4 weeks and can last several weeks. The disease is more severe in patients who are immunosuppressed, splenectomized (lack their spleen), or elderly. It can cause death. Treatment involves antibiotics, usually clindamycin and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5178">quinine</a>.

The parasite: While more than 100 species of Babesia have been reported, only a few have been identified as causing human infections. Babesia microti and Babesia divergens have been identified in most human cases, but variants (considered different species) have been recently identified. Little is known about the occurrence of Babesia species in malarial areas where Babesia can easily be misdiagnosed as <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4939">Plasmodium</a> (the agent of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4255">malaria</a>).

The life cycle of the parasite: (This contains some technical information.) The B. microti life cycle involves two hosts, which includes a rodent, primarily the white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus. During a blood meal, a Babesia-infected tick introduces sporozoites into the mouse <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=19103">host</a>. Sporozoites enter <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3309">erythrocytes</a> and undergo asexual <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5315">reproduction</a> (budding). In the blood, some parasites differentiate into male and female gametes although these cannot be distinguished at the light <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4375">microscope</a> level. The definitive host is a tick, in this case the deer tick, Ixodes dammini (I. scapularis). Once ingested by an appropriate tick, gametes unite and undergo a sporogonic cycle resulting in sporozoites. Transovarial transmission (also known as vertical, or hereditary, transmission) has been documented for "large" Babesia spp. but not for the "small"
babesia, such as B. microti.

Humans enter the cycle when bitten by infected ticks. During a blood meal, a Babesia-infected tick introduces sporozoites into the human host. Sporozoites enter erythrocytes and undergo asexual <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5310">replication</a> (budding). Multiplication of the blood <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5543">stage</a> parasites is responsible for the clinical manifestations of the disease. Humans are, for all practical purposes, dead-end hosts and there is probably little, if any, subsequent transmission that occurs from ticks feeding on infected persons. However, human to human transmission can occur through blood transfusions.

Deer are the hosts upon which the adult ticks feed and are indirectly part of the Babesia cycle as they influence the tick population. When deer populations increase, the tick population also increases, thus heightening the potential for transmission.

The diagnosis: Diagnosis can be made by <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4380">microscopic</a> examination of thick and thin blood smears stained with Giemsa. Repeated blood smears may need to be examined to make the diagnosis.
<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=19101">Antibody</a> detection by indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test is a complementary diagnostic test. Isolation of Babesia by inoculation of the patient's blood into hamsters or gerbils may also assist in diagnosis. Animals inoculated with infective blood typically develop <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=17665">parasitemia</a> (parasites circulating in their bloodstream) within 1 to 4 weeks.

Treatment: The current drug treatment options (in 2002) are clindamycin plus quinine or with atovaquone plus azithromycin. Exchange transfusions have been used in severely ill patients with high parasitemia (high levels of the parasite in the blood). <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Thursday, February 14, 2008

Tabes dorsalis

Tabes dorsalis: Slowly progressive degeneration of the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=17889">spinal cord</a> that occurs in the tertiary (third) phase of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5689">syphilis</a> a decade or more after originally contracting the infection. Among the terrible features of tabes dorsalis are lancinating lightning-like pain, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2375">ataxia</a> (wobbliness), deterioration of the nerves to the eyes (the optic nerves) leading to blindness, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7999">urinary incontinence</a>, loss of the sense of position, and degeneration of the joints (Charcot's joints).
Tabes is the Latin word for decay. The term tabes dorsalis was devised in 1836 when the cause of the condition was thought to be wastage of the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9282">dorsal</a> (posterior) columns of the spinal cord,
well before it was recognized as part of late syphilis.

 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

National Lyme Disease Meeting, March 8-9, 2006

The government hardiness Agency of Canada is grateful whirl entire contributors to the meeting on Lyme condition who provided perspectives aping the findings moreover concerns truly national together with international experts, federal health professionals, slice-of-life drama Canadian Disease groceries together with the National ME/FM Action

National Lyme Disease Meeting, March 8-9, 2006

problem play popular Health Agency of is pleased to all contributors bother the affair on Lyme disease blue book provided perspectives representing the findings with concerns certainly national and universal experts social health the Canadian Lyme unhealthiness Foundation and the National Action

C-EnterNet News, Volume 5, Winter 2008

C-EnterNet oh well a multi-partner action on hand problem play communal Health Agency certainly Canada. hurry away such is life meant to support activities that will abate the burden certainly ventral misery by comprehensive sentinel site surveillance implemented through local public health units.

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending february 9, 2008.

The Respiratory Virus Detection Surveillance System reports touching respiratory viruses in Each week, selected delineation Chinese lottery of tests performed also Chinese lottery positive for Influenza, pulse rate Syncytial stroke along with Adenovirus to the Immunization and respiratory rate Infections parting popular Health Agency of Canada.

Ocean itch

Ocean itch: An intensely <A
href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=15781">itchy</a> <A
href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=1992">rash</A> due to contact with the tiny thimble jellyfish (Linuche unguiculata).
These <A
href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=62024">jellyfish </A> are common between March and August in the waters off of Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. There may be no adult jellyfish around as a warning. The jellyfish larvae look like mere specks of "finely ground pepper" and can evoke the same response.
The reaction tends to start 4-24 hours after exposure to the jellyfish. People who have had previous exposure to seabather's rash may have an immediate stinging sensation. Some people feel like they have the <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=365">flu</a> with <A
href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=41943">nausea, vomiting</A> , <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=20628">headache</a>, muscle and joint aches, and <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4253">malaise</a>.
A bathing suit traps the jellyfish larvae with the
fabric acting like a net. The best way to prevent stings is clearly to stay out
of the water. Anyone who has had a previous episode of seabather's itch is
advised to not go in the water. If one goes in the water, one can wear clothes
such as a wet suit that provide a protective barrier. Careful washing of
swimwear after taking a dip is advisable. Wearing a T-shirt into the water is a
poor idea because it increases the risk of a severe reaction. Topical anti-itch creams are only temporarily effective.

Other names for this condition include bather's eruption, sea poisoning, and seabather's itch and the jellyfish are sometimes called sea critters or, incorrectly, sea lice.
 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Monday, February 11, 2008

Ituri, DRC: Ongoing Sexual Violence and Brutality

Increasing Incidence of Visceral Leishmaniasis in War-Torn Somalia

MSF Calls on Thailand to Halt Forcible Return of Hmong Refugees to Laos

UN Health Talks Could Lead to Urgently Needed Drugs and Diagnostics

Angolan Government must put an end to the abuses committed by its army against Congolese migrants during their expulsion from the country

MSF and TB Experts Call for New Approach to Test TB Drugs

Somalia: No Safety in Mogadishu

Patients and Family Members Killed Inside MSF Compound

People in Southeast Asia Needlessly Becoming Blind Due to a Neglected Virus

Angolan Government must put an end to the abuses committed by its army against Congolese migrants during their expulsion from the country

MSF's Statement on Arjan Erkel Court Decision

Tuberculosis: Fighting a Losing Battle

Cholera Epidemic and Several Weeks of Intense Fighting in Mogadishu, Somalia

Somalia � Tens of Thousands Fleeing Violence in Mogadishu Face Critical Humanitarian Needs

MSF Dismayed by Dutch Government Appeal of Geneva Court Ruling

MSF Reacts to Charges Issued Against Palestinian Staff Member

Dr. Bernard Kouchner and MSF: A Clarification

Health Worker Shortage Limits Access to HIV/AIDS Treatment in Southern Africa

With Focus on Darfur, Emergency Situation Unfolding in Eastern Chad

Major Donation Made to Doctors Without Borders

MSF Aid Worker Killed in the Central African Republic

Further Clarification on the Death of our Colleague Elsa Serfass in the Central African Republic

Insecurity In Central African Republic Threatens Lives of Civilians and Aid Workers, Blocking Urgent Medical Care

MSF Report: Up to 500 Percent Price Increase for Less-Toxic First-Line HIV Regimen

Situation Worsens For Newly Displaced Families in Somalia

New Pediatric AIDS Treatment Data Show Good Clinical Results But Sub-optimal Virological Outcomes

Cameroon�Critical nutritional situation for refugees from Central African Republic

Indian Court Ruling in Novartis Case Protects India as the 'Pharmacy of the Developing World'

Earthquake in Peru: MSF Sends Emergency Relief Supplies

Access To Medical Care Dangerously Scarce In and Around Mogadishu, Somalia

MSF Denied Access to Somali Region of Ethiopia, Despite Worsening Humanitarian Crisis

Violence in North Kivu (DRC): Assistance severely hampered

MSF Warns More Food Will Not Save Malnourished Children

Doctors Without Borders Halts Activities in Central Niger

Ituri, DRC: Ongoing Sexual Violence and Brutality

Increasing Incidence of Visceral Leishmaniasis in War-Torn Somalia

MSF Calls on Thailand to Halt Forcible Return of Hmong Refugees to Laos

UN Health Talks Could Lead to Urgently Needed Drugs and Diagnostics

MSF and TB Experts Call for New Approach to Test TB Drugs

Somalia: No Safety in Mogadishu

Patients and Family Members Killed Inside MSF Compound

People in Southeast Asia Needlessly Becoming Blind Due to a Neglected Virus

Angolan Government must put an end to the abuses committed by its army against Congolese migrants during their expulsion from the country

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis: A lung disease characterized by an unusual type of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4464">muscle</a> cell that invades the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5800">tissue</a> of the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4209">lungs</a>, including the airways, blood vessels, and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4212">lymph</a> vessels. Over time, these muscle cells form into bundles and grow into the walls of the airways and blood and lymph vessels, causing them to become obstructed. Although these cells are not considered cancerous, they act somewhat like <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=13931">cancer</a> cells in that they grow uncontrollably throughout the lung. The muscle cells in time block the flow of air, blood, and lymph to and from the lungs, preventing the lungs from providing <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=10690">oxygen</a> to the rest of the body.

"Lymphangioleiomyomatosis" is pronounced lim - fan' je - o - li' o - mi' o - ma - to' sis. "Lymph-" and "-angio-" refer to the lymph and blood vessels. "Leiomyomatosis" refers to the formation of the bundles of the unusual muscle cells. Lymphangioleiomyomatosis is abbreviated LAM.

Cause: LAM can occur in association with <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11454">tuberous sclerosis</a> due to mutations in the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) genes TSC1 or TSC2 genes. Sporadic (isolated) caes of LAM typically result from 2 somatic mutations in the TSC2 gene, although a fraction of sporadic LAM is caused by germline mutations in the TSC1 gene.

Frequency: The precise number of people with LAM is not known. It has been estimated that there may be up to several hundred women in the US with it.

LAM almost exclusively affects women of childbearing age, although several cases have been reported in which the disease was thought to have developed after <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2036">menopause</A>. The international literature also includes reports of a few cases in men.

Symptoms: A common symptom of LAM is shortness of breath (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3145">dyspnea</a>). In the early stages of disease, there may be dyspnea only during strenuous exercise, but as the disease advances, even at rest there may be shortness of breath. Another common symptom is chest pain. Occasionally, patients <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2852">cough</a> up small amounts of blood.
The symptoms are caused by the excessive growth of the muscle cells around the airways, and blood and lymph vessels. The excess muscle cells can block the airways, trapping air in the smallest air compartments in the lung (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2212">alveoli</a>) and causing the person to have difficulty moving air out of the lungs. This results in a breakdown of the lung tissue and the formation of small cysts (air-filled <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2651">cavities</a>).

Cysts near or on the surface of the lung (blebs) can rupture and, as air leaks from the lung into the chest cavity (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=1978">pneumothorax</A>), the lung or a part of the lung can collapse, causing pain. If the amount of air that leaks out is small, the lung may seal over the space and re-expand itself. If air continues to leak into the chest cavity, however, it may be necessary to re-expand the collapsed portion of the lung by removing the air that has leaked into the chest cavity. This is an in-patient procedure, done using tube inserted through the chest wall into the chest cavity.

The excessive muscle growth may also block blood vessels in the lung, causing them to become distended with blood and even to rupture. This can result in the patient coughing up blood-stained <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5539">sputum</a> or blood (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3700">hemoptysis</a>).

Obstruction of the lymphatic vessels by the excess muscle growth can lead to leakage of fluid into the chest cavity (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4946">pleural effusion</a>). The fluid may be straw-colored (lymph), or fat-containing, milky white (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11436">chyle</a>), or pinkish-red if it contains blood. A physician can remove some of this fluid with a needle and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9462">syringe</a> to determine its composition and origin. If large amounts of this fluid accumulate in the chest cavity, it may have to be removed through a tube surgically inserted into the chest.

About 30 to 50% of patients with LAM develop leakage of air into the chest cavity (pneumothorax), and up to 80% have leakage of fluid into the chest cavity (pleural effusions). Coughing up blood-stained sputum or blood (hemoptysis) is less frequent.

Course: LAM is generally <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=10697">progressive</a>, leading to increasingly impaired lung function. The rate of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2964">development</a> can vary considerably among patients. As the disease advances, there is more extensive growth of muscle cells throughout the lung and repeated leakage of fluid into the chest cavity (pleural effusions). As an increasing number of cysts are formed, the lung takes on a honeycomb appearance.

The survival time following diagnosis is uncertain, as the disease seems to be highly individual. It had been reported to be less than 10 years, but new reports show patients living more than 20 years after diagnosis.

Diagnosis:The diagnosis of LAM can be difficult because many of the early symptoms are similar to those of other lung diseases, such as <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=284">asthma</A>, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3228">emphysema</a>, or <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2536">bronchitis</a>. Often the person first goes to the physician complaining of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2700">chest pain</a> and shortness of breath that was caused by a pneumothorax. Some patients first consult their physician because of shortness of breath upon exertion. There are a number of tests the physician can do to gather information about LAM:
<ul>
<li>Chest <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6032">X-ray</a> -- This picture of the lungs and other tissue in the chest is used to diagnose a pneumothorax or the presence of fluid in the chest cavity (pleural <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7016">effusion</a>). Smooth muscle cysts, consistent with LAM, do not usually appear on X-ray.
<li><a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5123">Pulmonary</a> function tests -- The patient breathes through a mouthpiece into a machine (spirometer) that measures the volume of air in the lungs, the movement of air into and out of the lungs, and the movement of oxygen from the lungs into the blood.
<li>Blood test -- Blood is analyzed to determine whether the lungs are providing an adequate supply of oxygen to the blood.
<li><a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2811">Computed tomography</a> (CT) -- The most definitive imaging test for diagnosing LAM. On a <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2878">CT scan</a>, the presence of thin-walled cysts spread relatively uniformly throughout the lungs usually means LAM. An abdominal CT scan may disclose a benign kidney tumor called angiomyolipoma that is associated with LAM.
<li>Lung <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2466">biopsy</a> -- Two or more of the characteristic findings of LAM (cysts, fluid in the lungs, benign kidney tumor, and collapsed lung) may be considered diagnostic of LAM. An open lung biopsy should be performed as a last resort to diagnose LAM. In this procedure, a few small pieces of lung tissue are removed through an <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3956">incision</a> made in the chest wall between the ribs.
Another procedure, thoracoscopy, is also being used in some patients to obtain lung tissue. In this procedure, tiny incisions are made in the chest wall, and a small lighted tube (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3244">endoscope</a>) is inserted so that the interior of the lung can be viewed, and small pieces of tissue are removed. Both of these biopsy procedures must be done in the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8390">hospital</a> under general <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2246">anesthesia</a>.

Another technique, called transbronchial biopsy, may also be used to obtain a small amount of lung tissue. A long, narrow, flexible, lighted tube (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2538">bronchoscope</a>) is inserted down the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9020">windpipe</a> (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5829">trachea</a>), and into the lungs. Bits of lung tissue are sampled, using a tiny <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3506">forceps</a>. This procedure is usually done in a hospital on an <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4700">outpatient</a> basis under local anesthesia. It is less reliable than an open lung biopsy because the amount of tissue that can be sampled is sometimes inadequate for diagnostic studies. After the lung tissue is removed, it is examined in a <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6387">pathology</a> <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6463">laboratory</a> for the presence of the abnormal muscle cells and cystic changes characteristic of LAM.

</ul>
Treatment: Because LAM affects almost exclusively women of childbearing age, it has been thought that the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3783">hormone</a> <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3329">estrogen</a> might be involved in the abnormal muscle cell growth that characterizes the disease, just as it is in the growth of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5514">smooth muscle</a> in the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5918">uterus</a> in a woman's childbearing years. Although there is no firm evidence that there is a relationship between estrogen and LAM, the treatment of ther disease has focused on reducing the production or effects of estrogen. The response to treatment has been highly individual, and no <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=10897">therapy</a> has been found to be effective for all LAM patients. Oxygen therapy may be necessary if the disease continues to worsen and lung function is impaired.

For LAM patients with severe disease, lung transplantation is an established therapy. One year survival following <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6290">transplant</a> is approximately 70 percent, and 3-year survival is approximately 50 percent.

Effect on lifestyle: In the early stages of the disease, most patients can go about their daily activities, including attending school, going to work, and performing common physical activities, such as walking up a hill. In more advanced stages, the patient may have very limited ability to move around and may require oxygen full-time.
Patients with LAM should follow the same healthy lifestyle recommended for the general population, including eating a healthy diet, getting as much exercise as they can, as well as plenty of rest, and, of course, not smoking. Traveling to remote areas where medical <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7133">attention</a> is not readily available or to high altitudes where the blebs can expand and rupture should be considered carefully before undertaken.

In patients with normal lung function, there is probably no increased risk associated with <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11893">pregnancy</a>. However, in patients with compromised lung function, pregnancy is not advised. There do not appear to be complications associated with <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4655">oral</a> contraceptives, but this issue should be discussed with the patient's pulmonologist and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3642">gynecologist</a>.
 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Saturday, February 9, 2008

Causalgia

Causalgia: Intense burning pain and sensitivity to the slightest vibration or touch, usually in the hand or foot, at a site some distance removed from a wound that has healed. This phenomenon was first described in 1872 by the American neurologist Silas Weir Mitchell (1829-1914).

 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Friday, February 8, 2008

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - February 8, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 6

Infectious Diseases News Brief: Hepatitis B virus virus and status certified a brand-new creation of injection drug in San Francisco United States; forbidden ground Link Between Measles, Mumps, stab* including Spectrum Disorders - Great Cholera nothingness In Several Cities absitively Katanga: ; FluWatch - January to 2008

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Surveillance System (CJD-SS) - Update

Creutzfeldt-Jakob spell Surveillance System (CJD-SS) - refurbish at the time that of 2008

Ankyrin deficiency

Ankyrin deficiency: Known also as hereditary spherocytosis (HS), this is a genetic disorder of the red blood cell membrane clinically characterized by <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2015">anemia</a>, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=1899">jaundice</a> (yellowing) and splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen), due to deficiency of ankyrin, a protein in the membrane of the red cell.
In HS the red cells are smaller, rounder, and more fragile than normal. The red cells have a spherical rather than the biconcave-disk shape of the normal red cell. These rotund red cells (spherocytes) are osmotically fragile and less flexible than normal red cells and tend to get trapped in narrow blood passages, particularly in the spleen, and there they break up (hemolyze) leading to hemolytic anemia. The clogging of the spleen with red cells almost invariably causes splenomegaly. The breakup of the red cells releases hemoglobin and the heme part gives rise to bilirubin, the pigment of jaundice. The excess bilirubin leads to the formation of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=368">gallstones</a>, even in childhood, There is also often iron overload due to the excess destruction of iron-rich red cells.
Hereditary spherocytosis is most common in people of northern European ancestry. It often shows up in infancy or early childhood, causing anemia and jaundice. The bone marrow has to work extra hard to make more red cells. So, if in the course of an ordinary viral illness, the bone marrow stops making red cells, the anemia can quickly become profound. This is termed an aplastic crisis.
Laboratory studies show evidence not only of many spherocytes but also increased numbers of reticulocytes (young red blood cells), hyperbilirubinemia (increased blood levels of the jaundice pigment bilirubin due to the breakup of the red cells) and increased osmotic fragility of the red cells.
HS is due to a deficiency of a protein called ankyrin.
Ankyrins are cell membrane proteins (thought to interconnect integral proteins with the spectrin-based membrane skeleton.) The ankyrin of red blood cells (erythrocytic ankyrin) is called ankyrin-R
or ankyrin-1. It is represented by the symbol ANK1.
The HS gene, that for ANK1, has been mapped to chromosome 8 and, specifically, to chromosome band 8p11.2. HS is inherited as a dominant trait so, if a person with HS reproduces, their child (irrespective of whether it is a boy or girl) has a 50:50 chance to have HS.
The treatment of hereditary spherocytosis is to remove the spleen (splenectomy). Although the red cell defect persists, the breakup of the red cells (hemolysis) ceases.
Splenectomy, however, is a hazard in young children. Young children without a spleen are at increased risk for overwhelming sepsis (bloodstream infection), particularly with the pneumococcus bacteria. Splenectomy is therefore usually postponed if possible until the age of 3 years.
Before having a splenectomy, anyone with HS should have the pneumococcal vaccine. Persons with HS (or another cause of brisk ongoing hemolysis) should take supplemental folic acid.
The prognosis (outlook) after splenectomy is for a normal life and a normal life expectancy.
HS is also known as congenital hemolytic jaundice, severe atypical spherocytosis, spherocytosis type II, erythrocyte ankyrin deficiency, ankyrin-R deficiency, and ankyrin1 deficiency. <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Malaria in the Dominican Republic -Updated: February 6, 2008

oppidan Health Agency of is monitoring reports naturally in the Republic

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) - January, 2008 - 34-01

In this issue: problem play rising claiming of zilch in Canada; truancy of prolyliminopeptidase-negative Neisseria strains in Ontario, nonbeing ERRATUM - ultimate Report and Recommendations from the National Notifiable Diseases Working bunch

Rickettsialpox

Rickettsialpox: A mild infectious disease first
observed in New York City caused by Rickettsia akari, transmitted from its mouse host by
chigger or adult mite bites. There is <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=361">fever</a>, a dark spot that becomes a small ulcer at the
site of the bite, swollen glands (lymphadenopathy) in that region, and a raised blistery
(vesicular) <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=1992">rash</a>. Also known as vesicular rickettsiosis. <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Respiratory Virus Detections/Isolations in Canada - Week ending february 2, 2008.

The Respiratory Virus Detection Surveillance System reports on respiratory viruses in Each week, exclusive laboratories report numbers of tests effete and numbers racket consummate journey Influenza, Respiratory Virus, and Adenovirus furor the Immunization in addition Respiratory Infections Division (IRID), own Health department of Canada.

Urticaria

Urticaria: Another name for the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=511">hives</a>. Raised, itchy areas of skin that are usually a sign of an allergic reaction. Hives can be rounded or flat-topped but are always elevated above the surrounding skin. They reflect circumscribed dermal <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=12699">edema</a> (local swelling of the skin). The hives are usually well circumscribed but may be coalescent and will blanch with pressure.
The hives typically last less than 4 hours but they may stay for days or weeks. Approximately 20% of the population has experienced a bout of urticaria.

 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Rasmussen encephalitis

Rasmussen encephalitis: A rare progressive neurological disorder that is characterized by intractable seizures and progressive neurologic deterioration. To be more precise, there are frequent and severe seizures (convulsions), progressive loss of motor skills and speech, hemiparesis (paralysis on one side of the body), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9090">dementia</a>, and mental deterioration. The disorder affects a single brain hemisphere (one side or the other of the brain but not both sides) and generally occurs in children under the age of 15.
The standard treatment for Rasmussen's encephalitis is surgery to remove or disconnect the affected part of the brain (hemispherectomy). Although anti-epileptic drugs may be prescribed initially, they are usually not effective in the long run in controlling the seizures. Alternative treatments may include plasmapheresis (the removal and reinfusion of blood plasma), ketogenic diet (high fat, low carbohydrate), and steroids (cortisone-like drugs).
The prognosis (outlook) for individuals with Rasmussen's encephalitis varies. Untreated, the disorder may lead to severe neurological deficits including mental retardation and paralysis. In some patients the surgery decreases the seizures. However, most patients are left with some paralysis and speech deficits.
Rasmussen's encephalitis is believed due to a number of causes. In some cases there is an abnormal immune attack against what is called the glutamate receptor GluR3. Antibodies directed against GluR3 have been identified in patients. (Reference: Rogers et al.: Autoantibodies to glutamate receptor GluR3 in Rasmussen's encephalitis. Science 265: 648-651, 1994.) Plasmapheresis (skimming off the blood plasma) has been tried (to remove the GluR3) but the improvement was short-lived.
Rasmussen's encephalitis is also known as chronic focal encephalitis or chronic progressive epilepsia paritalis continua of childhood.
 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Monday, February 4, 2008

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia: A chronic low-grade (indolent) type of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4225">lymphoma</a> due to a <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4259">malignant</a> clone of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4935">plasma cells</a>. These plasma cells multiply out of control, invade the <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4286">bone marrow</a>, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4213">lymph nodes</a>, and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5531">spleen</a>, and characteristically produce huge amounts of a large-sized antibody called macroglobulin or IgM. The excess IgM causes the blood to be hyperviscous (to thicken).
Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia can occur in younger people but is usually seen in people over age 65. The disease is more common among men than women and among whites than blacks.
Signs and symptoms of the disease may include enlarged lymph nodes or spleen (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11256">splenomegaly</a>), fatigue, headaches, weight loss, a tendency to bleed easily, visual problems, confusion, dizziness, and loss of coordination. The symptoms are largely due to the thickening of the blood. In extreme cases, the increased concentration of IgM in the blood can lead to <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3672">heart failure</a>.
The treatment depends upon the viscosity of the patient's blood. Patients with pronounced hyperviscosity usually receive <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7778">chemotherapy</A> (anticancer drugs). A type of treatment called <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4937">plasmapheresis</a> may be performed to relieve symptoms such as excessive bleeding and dizziness. In this procedure, the blood plasma (which contains the antibody IgM) is removed from the patient. Other parts of the blood (<a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5260">red blood cells</a>, <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6017">white blood cells</a>, and <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4941">platelets</a>) are returned to the patient along with a plasma substitute. <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9724">Interferon</A> alpha, a form of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7839">biological therapy</a>, may also help relieve symptoms.

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Sunday, February 3, 2008

Nidus

Nidus: The Latin word for "nest", nidus is used in medicine to refer to any structure that resembles a nest in appearance or function. Just as a nest is a repository for the eggs of birds, insects and other animals, a nidus is a breeding place where bacteria, parasites and other agents of a disease lodge and develop. This is a nidus of infection, a focus of infection.
A nidus is also the nucleus or origin of a nerve. The nidus avis cerebelli is a deep sulcus (groove) on each side of the inferior vermis (a wormlike structure in the brain), separating it from the adjacent lobes of the cerebral hemispheres.
 <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Saturday, February 2, 2008

Glenn shunt

Glenn shunt: A surgical operation for children born with cyanotic heart disease ("blue babies"), in which a large vein (the superior vena cava) is anastomosed (connected) to the right pulmonary artery so that blood bypasses the malformed right chambers of the heart and is shunted directly into the lungs to be oxygenated.
The operation was created by William W. L. Glenn (1914-2003), then chief of cardiovascular surgery at Yale University. Dr. Glenn invented an early artificial heart using pieces from a child's Erector set, improved the c <A href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=1947">pacemaker</a> and wrote a standard textbook, "Glenn's Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery."

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Friday, February 1, 2008

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - February 1, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 5

Infectious Diseases News intercontinental Circumpolar Surveillance System for Invasive Disease, 1999�2005 - volant influenza restore Indonesia ; New OPV Against aeronautical Flu palmy In Mice coadunate States; - January 20, 2008 festivity January zip 2008 (Week

Koplik's spots

Koplik's spots: Little spots inside
the mouth that are highly characteristic of the early phase
of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6242">measles</a> (rubeola). The spots look like a tiny grains of
white sand, each surrounded by a red ring. They are found
especially on the inside of the cheek (the buccal mucosa)
opposite the 1st and 2nd upper molars. Named for the New
York pediatrician Henry Koplik (1858-1927) who described
them. <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedTerms</a> (TM) is the Medical Dictionary of <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/hp.asp">MedicineNet.com</a>. We Bring Doctors' Knowledge To You

Canada Communicable Disease Report (CCDR) weekly - February 1, 2008 - Volume 1 - Issue 5

taking Diseases News nil International Circumpolar Surveillance System as long as Invasive Disease, 1999�2005 - Avian influenza amend - ; New Vaccine versus Avian fatigue syndrome Successful In Mice annihilation conjoint void FluWatch - January 20, 2008 to January sale 26, 2008 (Week 4)