OHSU Healthcare Topic Search: brain

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Acquired Brain Injury

Acquired brain injury occurs when a sudden, external, physical assault damages the brain. It is one of the most common causes of disability and death in adults.

Brain Tumors

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain. The tumor can either originate in the brain itself or come from another part of the body and travel to the brain.

Brain Tumors in Children

Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children. Brain tumors that occur in infants and children are very different from adult brain tumors, both in terms of the type of cells and the responsiveness to treatment.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Spine and Brain  (tests & procedures)

MRI may be used to examine the brain and/or spinal cord for injuries or the presence of structural abnormalities or certain other conditions, including tumors or aneurysms.

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Brain  (tests & procedures)

CT scans of the brain can provide detailed information about brain tissue and brain structures than standard x-rays of the head, thus providing more information related to injuries and/or diseases of the brain.

Brain Abscess

A brain abscess is a rare infection in the brain caused by viruses or bacteria. Symptoms include fever, severe headache, and nausea or vomiting.

Anatomy of a Child's Brain

The brain can be divided into three areas, the cerebrum, the brainstem, and the cerebellum.

Anatomy of the Brain

The brain is an important organ that controls thought, memory, emotion, touch, motor skills, vision, respiration, temperature, hunger, and every process that regulates your body.

Effects of Stroke (Brain Attack)

When an area of the brain is damaged, which typically occurs with a stroke, an impairment may result. An impairment is the loss of normal function of part of the body. Sometimes, an impairment may result in a disability, or inability to perform an activity in a normal way.

Disorders of the Brain and Nervous System

Detailed information on the most common disorders of the brain and nervous system in high-risk newborns

Deep Brain Stimulation

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a type of therapy that uses electrical stimulation to treat Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, multiple sclerosis, and certain other neurological conditions.

Sleep Habits May Affect Brain Function

< Jul. 18, 2012 > -- Too little or too much sleep may make your brain age more quickly, a new study says.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Spine and Brain Podcast

MRI may be used to examine the brain and/or spinal cord for injuries or the presence of structural abnormalities or certain other conditions, including tumors or aneurysms.

Stroke (Brain Attack)

Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information

Craniotomy  (tests & procedures)

Detailed information on craniotomy, including the reasons and preparation for the procedure, how the procedure is performed, after care, an anatomical illustration of the anatomy of the brain, and an illustration of an example of a craniotomy procedure

Seizures and Epilepsy in Children

A seizure occurs when parts of the brain receive a burst of abnormal electrical signals that temporarily interrupts normal electrical brain function.

Stroke

Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. A blood clot can block one of the vital blood vessels in the brain or a blood vessel in the brain can burst, spilling blood into surrounding tissues.

Endovascular Coiling  (tests & procedures)

During endovascular coiling, a catheter is used to insert a small coil into an artery in the brain. The coil constricts the artery, blocking blood flow to an aneurysm.

Types of Stroke

Strokes are classified as either ischemic or hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes are caused by blockage of an artery. Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by bleeding in the brain.

Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL)

The head is one of the most fragile parts on your baby, especially after birth. Sometimes, damage can occur, particularly if your baby is born prematurely. One type of brain damage is called periventricular leukomalacia. Read on to better understand what this diagnosis means for you and your baby, and what doctors can do to help.

Stroke in Children

Stroke is much more common in adults than children, but children get strokes, too. The good news is that a child has a better ability to recover from stoke than an adult because a child's brain is still developing.

Encephalitis

Encephalitis is a term used to describe inflammation of the brain. The inflammation causes the brain to swell, which leads to changes in a person's neurologic condition, including mental confusion and seizures.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)  (tests & procedures)

The EEG is used to evaluate several types of brain disorders, including epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, certain psychoses, and certain sleep disorders.

Gamma Knife  (tests & procedures)

Gamma Knife radiosurgery uses beams of highly focused gamma rays to treat small- to medium-sized lesions, usually in the brain.

Overview of Stroke

Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. The disruption is caused when either a blood clot or piece of plaque blocks one of the vital blood vessels in the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.

Evoked Potentials Studies  (tests & procedures)

Evoked potential studies may be used to assess hearing or sight, especially in infants and children, to diagnose disorders of the optic nerve, and to detect tumors or other problems affecting the brain and spinal cord.

Cerebral Aneurysm

A cerebral aneurysm is a bulging, weakened area in the wall of an artery in the brain. This weak spot raises the risk that the artery wall will burst open.

Cerebral Arteriogram  (tests & procedures)

A cerebral arteriogram, also called an angiogram, is an x-ray image of the blood vessels in the brain. It is performed to evaluate various conditions, such as an aneurysm, narrowing of a blood vessel, or blockages.

The Tipping Point for Head Trauma

The greater number of head blows that boxers and other combat athletes absorb, the greater their risk for brain damage and other complications.

Intraventricular Hemorrhage

If your baby is born prematurely, there are many worries that likely go through your mind. One of the things that can happen is bleeding on the brain. Read on to learn about this and what doctors can do help your baby.

Carotid Artery Disease

Carotid artery disease occurs when the carotid arteries, the main blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood to the brain, become narrowed.

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a life-long condition that affects the communication between the brain and the muscles, causing a permanent state of uncoordinated movement and posturing.

Anencephaly

Anencephaly is a type of neural tube defect present at birth. It affects the formation of the brain and the skull bones that surround the head.

Chiari Malformation

A Chiari malformation is a birth defect in the area of the back of the head where the brain and spinal cord connect.

Encephalitis in Children

Encephalitis refers to inflammation of the brain. The inflammation causes the brain to swell, which leads to changes in the child's neurological condition, including mental confusion and seizures.

Meningitis in Children

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and the spinal cord. Bacteria or viruses are the more common causes.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

PET is a type of nuclear medicine procedure that measures metabolic activity of the cells of body tissues. Used mostly in patients with brain or heart conditions and cancer, PET helps to visualize the biochemical changes taking place in the body.

Neurocutaneous Syndromes

Neurocutaneous syndrome is a broad term for a group of disorders. These diseases are life-long conditions that can cause tumors to grow inside the brain, spinal cord, organs, skin, and skeletal bones.

Neurocutaneous Syndromes in Children

Neurocutaneous syndrome is a broad term for a group of disorders. These diseases are life-long conditions that can cause tumors to grow inside the brain, spinal cord, organs, skin, and skeletal bones.

Carotid Endarterectomy/Carotid Angioplasty with Stenting  (tests & procedures)

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) may be performed to treat a blockage or narrowing of the carotid arteries, thus improving blood supply to the brain. Carotid artery angioplasty with stenting (CAS) is a procedure currently being used on selected patients who are at high risk for surgery.

A Diet Good for Head and Heart

< Feb. 15, 2012 > -- A Mediterranean diet is good for your heart - and now it looks like it may also be good for your brain.

Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain. Most cases of meningitis are caused by viruses; bacterial meningitis is rare.

Skull Base Surgery

Skull base surgery may be done to remove both benign and cancerous growths, and abnormalities on the underside of the brain, the skull base, or the top few vertebrae of the spinal column.

Glucose (CSF)

This test measures the amount of glucose in the fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. If you have a serious infection, your glucose level may be lower than normal.

Electroencephalogram (EEG) for Children

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that measures the electrical activity in the brain. An EEG measures brain waves through small button electrodes that are placed on your child's scalp.

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which a buildup of fluid in the brain causes the pressure inside of the head to increase and the skull bones to expand to a larger-than-normal appearance.

X-rays of the Skull  (tests & procedures)

X-rays of the skull may be performed to diagnose fractures of the bones of the skull, birth defects, tumors, and certain disorders that cause bone defects of the skull. Skull X-rays may also be used to evaluate the nasal sinuses and detect calcifications within the brain.

Risk Factors for Stroke

The most important controllable risk factor for stroke is controlling high blood pressure. Blood pressure of 140/90 or higher can damage the arteries that supply blood to the brain.

Headaches in Children

Many headaches in children may be caused by tight muscles and dilated blood vessels in the head. Other headaches may be caused by an actual problem, such as a tumor or malformation of the brain, although this is much less common.

Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery

The pituitary gland is located at the bottom of your brain and above the inside of your nose. Endoscopic pituitary surgery is the most common surgery used to remove pituitary tumors.

Neurological Surgery

Neurological surgery is used to treat disorders of the brain, spine, and nerves. The doctor who specializes in neurological surgery is called a neurosurgeon or neurological surgeon.

Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis is a condition in which the fibrous joints between the skull’s bony plates close too early, causing problems with normal brain and skull growth.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurological disorder marked by the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain. It is often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, after a famous baseball player who died from it.

Microcephaly

An infant with microcephaly has a head that is much smaller than normal for an infant of that age and gender. Most children with microcephaly also have a small brain and mental retardation.

How a Migraine Happens

One theory says that migraine pain occurs because of waves of activity by groups of excitable brain cells, which trigger chemicals, such as serotonin to constrict blood vessels.

BSE ('Mad Cow Disease') and vCJD

BSE is a cattle disease, and vCJD is the equivalent disease in humans. Both are fatal brain diseases. Researchers believe that people become infected by eating beef contaminated with BSE.

Cerebral Aneurysm Animation  (animation)

A cerebral aneurysm is a serious condition, but it can be surgically treated in a variety of ways. Also called an intracranial or brain aneurysm, a cerebral aneurysm is a bulging, weakened area in the artery wall, disrupting blood flow.

Conditions Commonly Treated By Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Detailed information on the conditions most commonly treated by physical medicine and rehabilitation, including acquired brain injury, arthritis, burns, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic pain, back pain, neck pain, multiple sclerosis, spinal

Craniotomy Podcast

A craniotomy is the surgical removal of part of the bone from the skull to expose the brain. This procedure is done so that brain surgery or diagnostic tests can be performed.

Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery

Endoscopic endonasal surgery is a minimally invasive technique that allows a surgeon to go through the nose to correct problems or remove a tumor in various areas of the brain and the top of the spine.

Endovascular Coiling Podcast

Endovascular coiling is a procedure performed to block blood flow into a brain aneurysm, a weakened area in the wall of an artery.

Gamma Knife Podcast

Gamma Knife radiosurgery doesn’t involve actual surgery, nor is the Gamma Knife an actual knife. This procedure uses beams of highly focused gamma rays to treat small- to medium-sized lesions, usually in the brain.

VDRL (CSF)

This test looks for signs of neurosyphilis in your cerebrospinal fluid. Neurosyphilis happens when syphilis isn't treated and spreads to the spinal cord and brain.

What Are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are special human cells that have the ability to develop into many different cell types, from muscle cells to brain cells. In some cases, they also have the ability to repair damaged tissues.

Doppler Flow Studies

Doppler flow is a type of ultrasound that measures the flow of blood through a blood vessel. Doppler flow studies may be used to assess blood flow in the umbilical blood vein and arteries, fetal brain, and fetal heart.

Speech/Language Pathologist

A speech/language pathologist helps treat people with communication problems that result from disability, surgery, or developmental disorders. This specialist also treats people with swallowing disorders caused by stroke or brain injury.

Estrogen's Effects on the Female Body

In addition to regulating the menstrual cycle, estrogen affects the reproductive tract, the urinary tract, the heart and blood vessels, bones, breasts, skin, hair, mucous membranes, pelvic muscles, and the brain.

Hearing Loss in Children

Sensorineural hearing loss involves the inner ear or its connection with the brain. Conductive hearing loss involves the middle or outer ear.

Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy

Signs of an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) may be masked by pregnancy. But the thyroid is important for your baby’s brain development. Learn if you should be screened for hypothyroidism.

Mercury (Urine)

This test measures the amount of mercury in your urine. Long-term exposure to mercury can cause kidney and brain damage.

The Radiologist

Radiology has become highly specialized, as have most other medical and surgical specialties. The current trend is for radiologists to become specialized in a particular discipline, such as cardiology (the study and treatment of the heart) or neurology (the study and treatment of the brain and nervous system).

Normal Vision

Light enters the eye through the cornea and passes through the pupil. It then hits the lens, which focuses the light rays on the retina. The optic nerve carries the image from the retina to the brain.

High Blood Pressure/Hypertension

High blood pressure, or hypertension, increases the risk for coronary heart disease (heart attack) and stroke (brain attack).

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

This test checks newborns for PKU, a condition that can cause brain damage and severe intellectual disability if untreated.

Friedreich’s Ataxia

Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a degenerative disease that damages your spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the cerebellum portion of your brain.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is an abnormally low body temperature brought on by staying in cold temperatures for a long period of time. This lowered body temperature affects the brain, thus affecting a person's ability to think clearly or move well.

Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome

VHL is a rare genetic disorder marked by an increased risk of developing benign tumors in the brain, spine, retina, and adrenal gland, and cancerous tumors in the kidney.

Glossary - Nervous System Disorders

A glossary of terms relating to the nervous system.

Head Injury

A head injury can be as mild as a bump, bruise, or cut on the head, or can be moderate to severe because of a concussion, deep cut, fractured skull bone(s), or internal bleeding.

Glossary - Neurological Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to nervous system

Head Injury in Children

The more common causes of head injury in children are falls, motor vehicle accidents—in which the child is either a passenger or a pedestrian—or a result of child abuse.

Evaluation Procedures for Stroke

Tests that may be used to help diagnose a stroke include a CT scan or MRI, and an electroencephalogram.

Glossary - Nontraumatic Emergencies

Glossary of terms relating to non-traumatic emergencies

Parkinson's Disease (PD)

Parkinson's disease is the most common form of parkinsonism, a group of motor system disorders. PD is slowly progressing and degenerative.

Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast MRI Perfusion

Endovascular Neurosurgery and Interventional Neuroradiology

Endovascular neurosurgery is a subspecialty within neurosurgery that uses catheters and radiology to diagnose and treat various conditions and diseases of the central nervous system.

Glossary - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Glossary of terms relating to physical medicine and rehabilitation

Aneurysm: Coils and Stents

Treatment for Stroke

Although there is no cure for stroke, advanced medical and surgical treatments are now available, giving many stroke victims hope for optimal recovery.

Aphasia

Detailed information on aphasia, including cause, diagnosis, types, and treatment

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children

ADHD is a behavior disorder marked by inattention, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Detailed information on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including information on how the procedure is performed

History of Stroke

Hippocrates, the father of medicine, first recognized stroke over 2,400 years ago. At this time stroke was called apoplexy, which means "struck down by violence" in Greek.

Lumbar Puncture (LP)  (tests & procedures)

A lumbar puncture (LP), also known as a spinal tap, is a diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedure used to remove a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid for examination and diagnosis of various disorders.

Lactate Dehydrogenase (CSF)

This test measures the amount of an enzyme in your cerebrospinal fluid. The test can help diagnose diseases and conditions that affect your central nervous system.

Glossary - Heart Center

Glossary of terms relating to cardiovascular disease and heart healthy living

Diabetes Insipidus in Children

Detailed information on diabetes insipidus, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Functional MRI

Glossary - Cardiovascular Diseases

Glossary of terms relating to cardiovascular disease and heart healthy living

Home Page - Neurological Disorders

Detailed information on neurological disorders in children

Neurological Examination

A neurological exam may be performed with instruments, such as lights and reflex hammers, and usually does not cause any pain to the patient.

Online Resources - Neurological Disorders

List of online resources to find additional information on nervous system disorders

Overview of Diagnostic Tests for Nervous System Disorders in Children

Evaluating and diagnosing damage to the nervous system can be complicated. Many of the same symptoms occur in different combinations among the different disorders, and many disorders do not have definitive causes, markers, or tests.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET Scan)  (tests & procedures)

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a specialized radiology procedure used to examine various body tissues to identify certain conditions. PET may also be used to follow the progress of the treatment of certain conditions.

Syncope

Detailed information on syncope, also called fainting, including causes, symptoms, diagnostic, and treatment information

Topic Index - Neurological Disorders

Detailed information on neurological disorders in children

Western Equine Encephalitis

This tests looks for the virus that causes Western equine encephalitis, an infection spread to people through bites from infected mosquitoes.

Glossary - Otolaryngology

Glossary of terms relating to ear, nose, and throat disorders for patients and consumers

Neurological Examination for Children

Is it time for your baby to have a full physical exam? Your pediatrician might want to conduct a “neuro exam.” Don’t worry, this series of tests designed to evaluate your child’s nervous system is painless. Here’s what it entails.

Mastoiditis

Detailed information on mastoiditis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Reye Syndrome

Reye syndrome is a rare condition that can affect children between ages 4 and 12. The more common cases occur in conjunction with a previous viral infection, such as the flu or chicken pox.

Glossary - Women's Center

Glossary of terms relating to women's health

HIV and Dementia

AIDS dementia is a debilitating consequence of HIV infection and is typically seen in advanced stages of the disease.

CT Perfusion

Diagnostic Tests for Neurological Disorders

Evaluating and diagnosing damage to the nervous system is complicated and complex. Many of the same symptoms occur in different combinations among the different disorders.

Diffusion Tensor Imaging

DTI Tractography

Neurological Rehabilitation

Neurological rehabilitation is a physician-supervised program designed for people with diseases, trauma, or disorders of the nervous system. Neurological rehabilitation can often improve function, reduce symptoms, and improve the well-being of the patient.

Pregnancy and the Nervous System

Do you know how your nervous system works? This system coordinates all your body’s activities, and chances are it’s functioning normally during your pregnancy. In the rare case that it’s not, here’s what you need to know.

Recursos en la Red - Trastornos Neurológicos

Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH)

Detailed information on syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Glossary - Cancer Center

Glossary of terms relating to cancer

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS stands for sudden infant death syndrome. It is a leading cause of infant death in the U.S. The causes of SIDS are unknown, but researchers have learned more about factors that can put your baby at risk. Learn which ones parents can prevent.

Glossary - Growth and Development

Glossary of terms relating to growth and development of children

Glossary - Women's Health

Glossary of terms relating to women's health

Home Page - Nervous System Disorders

The nervous system is a complex, sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates the body's basic functions and activities. It is made up of two major divisions: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, chronic disease of the central nervous system. Some people with MS may be mildly affected, but others may lose their ability to write, speak, or walk.

Neurological Conditions

Detailed information on neurological disorders in children, including headaches, head injury and seizures/epilepsy

Topic Index - Nervous System Disorders

Here is a list of the most common types of neurological disorders, including acute spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and headaches.

Ataxia

Ataxia is a symptom—not a disorder. It refers to a failure of muscle control in the arms and legs, resulting in a lack of balance, coordination, and possibly a disturbance in gait.

Epilepsy and Pregnancy

Epilepsy and the medications to treat it can have affect the mother, the pregnancy, and the fetus and newborn. Fortunately, most women are able to have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a neurological disorder in which the body's immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. The disorder usually occurs a few days or weeks after a person has had symptoms of a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection.

Radiosurgery

Radiosurgery uses focused beams of radiation to treat cancerous tissues without a surgical incision or opening. The treatment is called "surgery" because creates a result similar to an actual surgical procedure.

Herpes Simplex Virus Culture and Typing

This test looks for which type of herpes simplex virus is causing your infection.

Sleep Problems May Affect Kids’ Behavior

< Mar. 07, 2012 > -- Snoring can disrupt sleep, and when that disruption happens in kids, they can develop behavioral problems.

Sleepwalking a Common Phenomenon in Adults

< May. 16, 2012 > -- Taking a late-night stroll is one thing - doing it while asleep is another thing entirely. Yet more people than researchers expected are affected by sleepwalking.

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, a disorder in which mental functions deteriorate and break down.

Electronystagmography (ENG)  (tests & procedures)

Detailed information on electronystagmography (ENG), including the reasons and preparation for the procedure, how the procedure is performed, after care, and an anatomical illustration of the ear

Give Your Child an Academic Boost—Exercise!

Keeping your child active may not always be easy. Children may be more interested in video games, YouTube videos, or the latest episode of . But regular physical activity can help curb childhood obesity, an epidemic that affects more than 12 million U.S. kids. Urging your child to move more has other benefits, too. It may even improve academic performance.

Meningococcal Infections

Detailed information on meningococcal infections, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Airway Obstruction Overview

Anatomy of the Endocrine System

The endocrine system includes not only the pancreas—the organ involved in the development of diabetes—but also the pituitary, thyroid, and other glands.

Anatomy of the Endocrine System in Children

Detailed information on the endocrine system, its anatomy and function, including a full-color, labeled illustration

Choking and the Heimlich Maneuver

Detailed information on choking, choking prevention, and the Heimlick maneuver

Diabetes Insipidus

Detailed information on diabetes insipidus, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Empty Sella Syndrome

Detailed information on empty sella syndrome, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Glossary - Craniofacial Anomalies

Glossary of terms relating to craniofacial anomalies in children

Susceptibility Weighted Imaging

Trigeminal Neuralgia: Motor Cortex Stimulation

Creatine Kinase with Isoenzymes (Blood)

This test is used to find out whether you have muscle damage, including damage to your heart muscle.

Sleeping Pills Tied to Higher Risk for Death, Cancer

< Feb. 29, 2012 > -- Many people have occasional problems getting to sleep, but if you routinely take sleeping pills, you may be at higher risk for premature death or certain types of cancer.

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Detailed information on chronic lymphocytic leukemia, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is longstanding pain that persists beyond the usual recovery period or occurs along with a chronic health condition, such as arthritis.

Glossary - Ear, Nose, and Throat

Glossary of terms relating to ear, nose, and throat disorders for patients and consumers

Glossary - Hematology and Blood Disorders

Online medical glossary of terms relating to hematology and blood disorders written for patients and consumers

Glossary - High-Risk Newborn

Glossary of terms relating to high-risk newborns

Glossary - Mental Health Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to mental health

Home Page - Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases include coronary heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and rheumatic heart disease.

HSV DNA (CSF)

This test finds out if you have DNA from the herpes simplex virus in your nervous system. It can help diagnose encephalitis and meningitis.

Hypoglycemia in Children

Causes of hypoglycemia in children with diabetes may include a missed meal, too much medication, or more exercise than usual.

Hypoglycemia in the Newborn

Babies who are more likely to develop hypoglycemia include those born to women who have diabetes.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

The MMR vaccine is given in two doses—at 12 to 15 months and at 4 to 6 years, or at least one month after the first dose.

Migraine Headache

Many women experience migraine headaches while pregnant. The good news is that you don’t have to give in to the pain when it strikes. Know what pain-relief options are safest for you.

Neurological Disorders

Here is a list of nervous system disorders that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional.

Neurology

Neurology is the branch of medicine that is concerned with the study and treatment of disorders of the nervous system.

Overview of Mood Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Mood disorders in teens remain one of the most under-diagnosed mental health problems. These disorders also put teens at risk for other conditions that may persist long after the initial episodes of depression are resolved.

Overview of Nervous System Disorders

Disorders of the nervous system include stroke, infections such as meningitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and functional disorders such as headache and epilepsy.

Prematurity

Other terms often used for prematurity are preterm and "preemie." Many premature babies also weigh less than 5.5 pounds and may be referred to as low birthweight.

Preterm Labor

Preterm birth is the greatest problem associated with preterm labor. Although most babies are born after 37 weeks, those born preterm are at increased risks for many complications.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder in which a person experiences brief interruptions of breathing during sleep.

Sleep Study  (tests & procedures)

A sleep study - or polysomnogram - consists of a number of medical tests performed at the same time during sleep. The tests measure specific sleep characteristics and help to diagnose sleep disorders.

The Pituitary Gland

Detailed information on the anatomy and function of the pituitary gland

Trigeminal Neuralgia: Stereotactic Radiosurgery

West Nile Virus

Detailed information on West Nile virus, including symptoms, prevention, and treatment

West Nile Virus in Children

Detailed information on West Nile virus, including symptoms, prevention, and treatment

Eye Examinations and Visual Screening

At 6 months of age, an infant should have a vision screening during a well-baby visit. In particular, the doctor should check how well the eyes work together.

Online Resources - Nervous System Disorders

A list of online resources to find additional information on nervous system disorders.

Glossary - Adolescent Medicine

Glossary of terms relating to adolescent medicine

Glossary - Oncology

Glossary of terms relating to cancer in children

Glossary - Breast Health

Glossary of terms relating to breast health written for patients and consumers

Glossary - Diabetes and Other Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to diabetes and other endocrine and metabolic disorders for patients and consumers

Hemophilia

Detailed information on hemophilia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Glossary - Endocrinology

Glossary of terms relating to endocrine disorders for patients and consumers

Glossary - Transplantation

Glossary of terms relating to transplantation in children

Pediatric Glossary - Eye Care

Glossary of terms relating to eye care

Schizophrenia

Detailed information on schizophrenia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Smoking

Ninety percent of new smokers are children and teenagers. In many cases, they are replacing the smokers who quit or died prematurely from a smoking-related disease.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE, or Lupus) and Pregnancy

Lupus can affect pregnancy at any stage. It is not clear whether the severity of the disease or the type of medication causes problems.

Neurogenic Bladder

Detailed information on neurogenic bladder, including complications, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

To Your Health! A Year-End List Worth Saving

< Dec. 26, 2012 > -- Humans seem to love lists-the top 10 Caribbean beaches, the five best coffee shops in your neighborhood, the interminable weekend to-do list. Here's another one to pique your interest: Below are some of the most compelling health stories of the year. Perhaps they will inspire you to live healthier this coming year.

Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear

The main parts of the ear are the outer ear, the eardrum (tympanic membrane), the middle ear, and the inner ear.

Anatomy of the Newborn Skull

Detailed anatomical information on the newborn skull, including a labeled, full-color illustration

Bicycle, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding Safety--Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Most child and teen bicycle crashes occur between May and August and between the hours of 3 and 6 p.m.

Cerebral Vascular Reserve assessment with acetazolamide (Diamox)

Chronic Hypertension

When a woman has pre-existing hypertension or develops hypertension before the 20th week of pregnancy, this is called chronic hypertension.

Glossary - Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Glossary of terms relating to mental health

Glossary - Pediatrics

Glossary of terms relating to pediatrics

Hearing Screening Tests for Newborns

Ménière's Disease

Meniere's disease is a balance disorder caused by an abnormality found in a section of the inner ear called the labyrinth.

MRI Spectroscopy

Mumps

Mumps is a highly contagious viral illness that usually occurs in childhood. It is no longer common in the United States because children are now vaccinated against it.

Mumps in Adults

Detailed information on mumps, including symptoms, diagnosis, complications, and treatment

Other Liver Disorders

Detailed information on autoimmune and metabolic liver disorders, including hemochromatosis (iron overload disease) and Wilson's disease

Overview of Nervous System Disorders in Children

The most common symptoms of nervous system disorders in children include delays in developmental milestones, an increase or lack of growth in head size, and a lack of coordination.

Prolactin (Blood)

This test measures the level of prolactin in your blood. The test can help find out whether you have a pituitary gland tumor.

Rehabilitation for Neurological Disorders

The goals of a neurological rehab program include helping the patient return to the highest level of function and independence, and improving the overall quality of life—physically, emotionally, and socially.

Trigeminal Neuralgia: Rhizotomy

Airway Obstruction

Detailed information on airway obstruction and children, including choking, suffocation, and strangulation

Anatomy of the Eye

The structures of the eye include the cornea, iris, pupil, macula, retina, and the optic nerve.

Animal Bites and Rabies

Detailed information on animal bites and rabies, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Fevers

When your child has a fever, the body resets its thermostat at a higher temperature. This helps the body fight off invading microorganisms.

Glossary - High-Risk Pregnancy

Glossary of terms relating to high-risk pregnancy

Headache

Headaches vary greatly in terms of pain location, pain intensity, and how frequently they occur.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

A person with IBS has a colon that is more sensitive and reactive than usual, so it responds strongly to stimuli that would not affect other people.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

Detailed information on irritable bowel syndrome, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine is a specialized area of radiology that uses very small amounts of radioactive materials to examine organ function and structure. This branch of radiology is often used to help diagnose and treat abnormalities very early in the progression of a disease, such as thyroid cancer.

Overview of Mood Disorders

Mood disorders refer to a category of mental health problems that include all types of depression and bipolar disorder. Mood disorders are sometimes called affective disorders.

Rabies

Detailed information on the danger of animal bites and rabies, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Smoking and Cardiovascular Disease

Smokers not only have increased risk of lung disease, including lung cancer and emphysema, but also have increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and oral cancer.

Glossary - Gynecological Health

Glossary of terms relating to gynecological health

African Trypanosomiasis (African Sleeping Sickness)

Detailed information on African trypanosomiasis, also called African sleeping sickness, including symptoms, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment

Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Marker (Blood)

This test looks for a protein in your blood that may mean that you have liver cancer or one of several other cancers.

Ammonia

This test checks the amount of ammonia in your blood. Ammonia may build up in your body if you have kidney or liver failure.

Arterial Spin Labeling MRI Perfusion

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder is an illness that resembles bulimia nervosa and is characterized by episodes of uncontrolled eating or bingeing. It differs from bulimia because its sufferers do not purge their bodies of the excess food.

Breast Milk Is the Best Milk

Your milk contains just the right balance of nutrients, and it contains them in a form most easily used by the human baby's immature body systems.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is defined as uncontrolled episodes of overeating (bingeing) usually followed by self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, enemas, or medications in an attempt to control weight.

Carotid Endarterectomy / Carotid Angioplasty with Stenting Podcast

These procedures are used to treat carotid artery disease. One removes plaque that has built up in an artery. The other inflates a tiny balloon in an artery to compress the plaque.

Common Conditions and Complications

Detailed information on common conditions and complications of the high-risk newborn

Diagnosis and Treatment for Migraines

To help diagnose a migraine, your doctor may ask you when your headaches occur, how long they last, and what they feel like.

Disorders Affecting the Pituitary Gland

Detailed information on disorders affecting the pituitary gland, including posterior anterior disorders and anterior pituitary disorders

Dysphagia

Detailed information on dysphagia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Growth Hormone Deficiency

Detailed information on growth hormone deficiency, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Immunofixation and Protein Electrophoresis (CSF)

This test looks for certain proteins in a sample of your cerebral spinal fluid. Having these proteins may be a sign of multiple sclerosis or other central nervous system disorder.

Inflammatory and Infectious Neurological Disorders

Detailed information on the most common inflammatory and infectious disorders in children

Learning Disorders

Learning disorders are sometimes called learning disabilities. Most children with learning disorders have normal intelligence, but they have difficulty with reading, math, or another academic area.

Mercury (Blood)

This test measures the amount of mercury in your blood. You can be exposed to mercury from polluted air or water, if you work in an industry that still uses mercury, from eating fish that are high in mercury, and from some complementary and alternative health remedies.

Mood Disorders

Detailed information on the most common types of mood disorders, including major depression, manic depression (bipolar disorder), dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder, and suicide

Newborn-Senses

Babies are born with the ability to focus only at close range—about eight to 10 inches, or the distance between a mother's face to the baby in her arms.

Pediatric Glossary - Infectious Diseases

Glossary of terms relating to infectious diseases

Physical Rehabilitation at the Hospital

If you are in the hospital recovering from surgery, healing from an injury, or being treated for a disabling medical condition, physical rehabilitation may be an important part of your treatment.

Potential Emergency Situations and Conditions

Detailed information on potential emergency situations and conditions, including animal bites, rabies, cat scratch disease, appendicitis, asthma attack, chest pain, heart attack, dehydration, heat stroke, fever, food allergy, food-drug interaction, frostb

Routine Vaccination Recommendations

Specific vaccine recommendations vary depending on age, geographic location, and other risk factors.

Spinal Tap or Lumbar Puncture

A spinal tap, also called lumbar puncture, is done to measure the amount of pressure in the spinal canal and/or to remove a small amount of cerebral spinal fluid for testing.

Sports Safety - Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Almost one-third of all injuries incurred in childhood are sports-related injuries. By far, the most common injuries are sprains and strains.

Staying Active May Lower Alzheimer’s Risk

Older adults who putter in the garden or around the house may be less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than retirees who spend their time on more sedentary activities.

Topic Index - Oncology

Detailed information on cancer in children

Varicella (Chickenpox)

Chickenpox is a very common childhood disease. It is usually mild, but can be serious, especially in young infants and adults.

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

This test measures the amount of a substance in your body that helps new blood vessels form. The test can help monitor cancer treatment.

Viral Culture

This test checks to see whether an infection is caused by a bacterium or a virus. It can also tell which specific virus is causing your infection.

Water Safety for Parents

Whether you decided to have your baby boy circumcised or not, it’s important to know how to care for his special needs. Find tips for caring for both circumcised and uncircumcised babies.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the practice of puncturing the skin with needles at certain anatomical points in the body to relieve specific symptoms associated with many diseases.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a group of conditions also known as hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy. CMT develops because of a defective gene that causes abnormalities in the nerves that supply your feet, legs, hands, and arms.

Diagnosing Cancer

Many tests are necessary to determine whether a child has cancer, or if another condition is mimicking the symptoms of cancer.

Advances in Therapeutic Radiology

One newer therapy combines radiation and chemotherapy, because in some cases, radiation may improve the effects of chemotherapy, and vice versa. Another therapy uses external beam radiation during surgery to treat cancerous tumors or certain other forms of cancer.

Apnea of Prematurity

It’s a cliché that many new parents need to reassure themselves that the baby is still breathing. But what if your baby really is having breathing problems? A breathing condition called apnea of prematurity affects some babies, especially if they’re born early. But you can learn what symptoms to look for.

Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia in which the electrical signals in the atria, or the two small chambers of the heart, are fired in a very fast and uncontrolled manner.

Blood Clotting Disorders in Children

Clotting disorders are a group of conditions in which people are more likely than normal to experience excessive clotting. The medical term for this is thrombophilia. These disorders may first be spotted in childhood but are usually identified in adolescence and young adulthood.

Borrelia Antibody (CSF)

This test looks for Borrelia antibodies in your cerebrospinal fluid. bacteria cause Lyme disease.

Brucella Antibody (CSF)

This test looks at fluid from your spinal cord to find out if you have an illness called brucellosis.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Children

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous, colorless, tasteless, odorless gas. It is the most common cause of accidental poisoning-related deaths and is often called "the silent killer."

Cellulitis of the Eye in Children

Detailed information on orbital cellulitis and pre-septal cellulitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Central Retinal Artery Occlusion

When one of the vessels that carry blood to your eye’s retina gets blocked, this can cause painless but usually sudden vision loss in one eye. Doctors call this a central retinal artery occlusion.

Common Characteristics of Liver Disease

Detailed information on liver diseases, including the most common characteristics of liver disease such as jaundice, cholestasis, liver enlargement, portal hypertension, esophageal varices, ascites, liver encephalopathy, and liver failure

Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)

CT angiography is a type of medical exam that combines a CT scan with an injection of a special dye to produce pictures of blood vessels and tissues in a part of your body.

Conduct Disorder

A child with a conduct disorder has antisocial behaviors that violate the rights of others and age-appropriate social standards and rules.

Defects in Metabolism of Amino Acids: PKU

Before the simple blood test that checks for PKU became routine, the condition could go undetected long enough to cause severe intellectual disability. Now the disorder can be diagnosed before it leads to any damage.

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)

Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus are serious illnesses. A combination vaccine is given to babies and children to provide protection against all three diseases.

Doctors and Specialists

Detailed information on the physicians and specialists that treat disorders of the spine, shoulder, and pelvis

Glossary - Eye Care

Glossary of terms relating to eye care

Glossary - Pregnancy and Childbirth

Glossary of terms relating to pregnancy and childbirth

Guillain-Barre Syndrome in Children

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a neurological disorder in which a child's immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. The disorder usually occurs a few days or weeks after the child has had symptoms of a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection.

Hyperbilirubinemia and Jaundice

A newborn with this condition has too much bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin causes a yellowing of the baby's skin and tissues. This is called jaundice.

Pets and Infectious Diseases

Detailed information on pets and infectious diseases

Pets and Infectious Diseases in Children

One way to prevent the spread of disease from your pet: Feed your pet a balanced diet and avoid having your pet eat raw foods or drink out of the toilet.

Physical Examination

Detailed information on childhood physical examinations

Poliomyelitis (Polio) in Children

Detailed information on poliomyelitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Preventing Opportunistic Infections in HIV/AIDS

Opportunistic infections that other people might fight off easily could make you really sick if you have HIV. Getting one or more of these OIs could mean that your HIV has advanced to AIDS.

Sepsis

Sepsis is a term for severe infection that spreads throughout the body. Sepsis in a newborn is more likely to develop when the mother has had pregnancy complications that increase the likelihood of infection.

Stuttering

Stuttering may occur in a child with normal developmental speech problems who is pressured to speak better. The child's struggle to improve speech actually makes the problem worse.

The Benefits of Mother's Own Milk

Premature babies who receive their own mothers' milk develop better eye function. They, and other high-risk babies fed mothers' milk, usually perform better on different kinds of intelligence tests as they grow older.

Total Copper (Blood)

This test measures the amount of copper in your blood. Too little or too much copper can cause health problems.

Myelogram  (tests & procedures)

A myelogram, also known as myelography, is a procedure that combines the use of dye with x-rays or CT scans to assess the spinal cord, subarachnoid space, or other structures for abnormalities, particularly when another type of examination, such as a standard x-ray, is inconclusive.

Nausea/Vomiting and Chemotherapy

After receiving a few treatments, some patients feel nausea and begin vomiting in anticipation of the next treatment. The reaction is usually caused by something related to the treatment, like the smell of alcohol or the sight of a medical uniform.

Antithrombin (Activity and Antigen)

The antithrombin activity and antigen tests are used to help find out what may be causing abnormal blood clots in your body.

Audiologist

Audiologists measure and evaluate a person's ability to hear sounds, and specialize in the treatment of people with hearing disorders.

Bicycle, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding Safety - Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Most child and teen bicycle crashes occur between May and August and between the hours of 3 and 6 p.m.

Carotid Artery Duplex Scan  (tests & procedures)

A carotid artery duplex scan is used to assess blockage or narrowing of the carotid arteries of the neck and/or the branches of the carotid artery.

Crossed-Eyes (Strabismus)

A child with strabismus has one or both eyes that turn inward, outward, up, or down. At times, more than one of these conditions are present.

Glossary - Cardiovascular Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to cardiovascular disorders in children

Glossary - Diabetes

Glossary of terms relating to diabetes for patients and consumers

Hearing Loss in Babies

Hearing loss in babies is rare in this country, but when it does occur, it's important to diagnose it early. Undetected hearing loss can delay speech and language development.

High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents

Blood pressures vary depending on the age, height, weight, and gender of your child. Generally, blood pressure is low in infancy and rises slowly as children age.

Hirschsprung's Disease

Detailed information on Hirschsprung's disease, including risks, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Home Page - Endocrinology

Detailed information on endocrine disorders

Multifactorial Inheritance and Birth Defects

Detailed information on multifactorial inheritance, including different multifactorial traits and diseases

Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV)  (tests & procedures)

Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test - also called a nerve conduction study (NCS) - is a measurement of the speed of conduction of an electrical impulse through a nerve. NCV can determine nerve damage and destruction.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children

Rituals and obsessive thoughts are a normal part of a teen's development. An adolescent with OCD has obsessive thoughts that are unwanted and related to fears.

Overview of the Male Anatomy

The male reproductive anatomy includes the bladder, epididymis, penis, scrotum, and prostate gland.

Physiatrist

The physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation is called a physiatrist.

Pituitary Tumors

Detailed information on pituitary gland tumors, including symptoms, causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment

Rh Disease

Rh disease occurs during pregnancy when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and baby.

Schizophrenia in Children

Detailed information on schizophrenia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Sinus X-ray  (tests & procedures)

A sinus x-ray is a type of x-ray used to obtain images of the sinuses - the air-filled cavities lined with mucous membranes located within the bones of the skull.

Statistics of Disability

Approximately 54 million people in the US have some type of disability, with physical, sensory, mental, and self-care effects ranging from mild to severe.

Statistics of Stroke

Almost every 40 seconds in the United States, a person experiences a stroke.

Topic Index - Non-Traumatic Emergencies

Detailed information on potential emergency situations and conditions, including animal bites, rabies, cat scratch disease, appendicitis, asthma attack, chest pain, heart attack, dehydration, heat stroke, fever, food allergy, food-drug interaction, frostb

When to Call For Help

Detailed information on when to call for help in an emergency situation

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (Lupus)

Most people who have lupus are young women. The effects of the disease can range from mild to severe.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or Lupus) in Children

Lupus is a disease characterized by periodic episodes of inflammation of and damage to the joints, tendons, other connective tissues, and organs.

Fetal Ultrasound  (tests & procedures)

Fetal ultrasound is a test used during pregnancy that creates an image of the fetus in the mother's uterus, or womb.

Glossary - Infectious Diseases

Glossary of terms relating to infectious diseases

Glossary - Travel Medicine

Glossary of terms relating to travel medicine

Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn

This condition occurs when an incompatibility exists between the blood types of the mother and baby.

Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder X-ray  (tests & procedures)

A KUB x-ray may be the first diagnostic procedure used to assess the urinary system; to find the cause of abdominal pain, such as masses, perforations, or obstruction; or to evaluate the urinary tract before other diagnostic procedures are performed.

Trisomy 18 and 13

Trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 are genetic disorders that present a combination of birth defects including severe mental retardation, as well as health problems involving nearly every organ system in the body.

Vascular Studies  (tests & procedures)

Vascular studies use ultrasound (sound wave) technology to assess the flow of blood in arteries and veins in the arms, legs, and neck.

Anatomy of the Urinary System

Detailed anatomical description of the urinary system, including simple definitions and labeled, full-color illustrations

Art Therapy, Dance Therapy, Music Therapy, and Imagery

Art, dance, music—all are examples of mind-body therapy. Although these therapies do not cure cancer, they provide an outlet for emotions and can improve mental and physical well-being.

Beyond Bone Health: The Power of Vitamin D

A simple glass of milk can do a lot for your health. Thanks to the "Got Milk" campaign, many women know that it packs a healthy punch of calcium and vitamin D - two nutrients critical for strong bones. But did you know vitamin D may be beneficial beyond bone health? Ongoing research suggests it may have some truly potent powers.

Binge Drinking: A Woman’s Health Concern

Many women drink alcohol - whether it's to celebrate a special event or maybe to relax with friends. An occasional drink usually isn't a concern. Moderate amounts of alcohol may even protect against coronary heart disease. More excessive drinking, though - like binge drinking - can lead to serious health problems.

Factor I

This test measures the amount of a protein called factor I, or fibrinogen, in your blood. It helps find out if you have a bleeding or clotting disorder.

Gaucher Disease

Gaucher disease is an inherited metabolic disorder known as a lipid storage disease. When you have gaucher disease, you’re missing an enzyme needed to break down lipids normally.

Neurogenic Bladder in Children

In children a neurogenic bladder may be secondary to a birth defect such as spina bifida or it may be acquired as the result of a different problem.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

Detailed information on non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, including causes, staging, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Overview of Urogenital Disorders

Detailed information on urology, the branch of medicine concerned with the urinary tract in both genders and the genital tract or reproductive system in the male, and urogenital disorders

Protecting Older Family Members from Financial Abuse

It can be hard to discuss money matters with older family members. Many of us may prefer to avoid such a sticky subject entirely. This reluctance can make it easy to overlook a potentially serious problem: financial abuse. It's a type of elder abuse, which affects more than 5 million older adults each year. And experts believe it's becoming more common.

Spina Bifida

Spina bifida can occur in the early weeks of pregnancy, before you even know you are expecting. That’s why your baby is depending on you to have healthy habits in place from the start. Learn more about the prevention and treatment of this birth defect.

Sports Injury Statistics

Detailed information on sports injuries in children

Toxoplasma Gondii Antibody

This test looks for antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection in your blood.

Treatment for Arthritis

Detailed information on the most common treatments used for arthritis

Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous tumor that may develop from an overproduction of Schwann cells that press on the hearing and balance nerves in the inner ear.

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (aPL)

This disease can have serious effects in pregnancy, both for the mother and the baby. These include strokes, blood clots, and recurrent miscarriage.

Breastfeeding Overview

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches occur in groups, or clusters, and individual attacks last one to three hours on average. They may occur every other day—or several times a day.

Cowden Syndrome

The risk for breast cancer, gastrointestinal cancers, and thyroid cancer is increased with Cowden syndrome, a rare genetic disorder.

Landau-Kleffner Syndrome

Detailed information on Landau-Kleffner syndrome, including signs, diagnosis, and treatment

Lead Poisoning

Detailed information on lead poisoning

Lead Poisoning in Children

Lead poisoning is a totally preventable disease. Children ages 1 to 3 who live in low-income housing built before 1978 are especially at risk.

Leptin (Blood)

This test measures the amount of leptin in your blood. The test can help figure out how much body fat you have.

Medical Management of Vascular Conditions

Detailed information on the medical management of vascular conditions, including description of the vascular system, risk factors for vascular conditions, causes of vascular conditions, medical management of risk factors, and full-color anatomical illustrations

Mosaic Down Syndrome

Detailed information on mosaic Down syndrome, including the chances for it to happen again in a family

Mosaicism

Detailed information on mosaicism, including a mosaicism diagram

Narcolepsy

A person with narcolepsy is likely to become drowsy or to fall asleep at inappropriate times and places, and sleep attacks may occur with or without warning.

Newborn Metabolic Screening

Because some potential problems aren’t readily seen at birth, all newborns are tested for certain conditions, including metabolic disorders.

Newborn-Crying

Crying is the way babies communicate. They cry because of hunger, discomfort, frustration, fatigue, and even loneliness.

Newborn-Reflexes

Ever wonder why your baby flings his arms out sideways when startled? This reaction—called the Moro reflex—is one of many natural reflexes your newborn should exhibit. Read on to learn about common newborn reflexes and what they mean.

Nutrition During Pregnancy

Not only is eating nutritious food good for you and your baby, it also can ease some of the discomforts of pregnancy. A balanced diet can help minimize symptoms such as nausea and constipation.

Overview of Adrenal Disorders

Pneumococcus

Pneumococcus bacteria can cause serious illness in children, including pneumonia, infection in the blood, and meningitis.

Presbycusis

Presbycusis is the gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people age. One in three older adults older than 60 has hearing loss. Half of people older than 75 have hearing loss.

Rheumatic Heart Disease

Rheumatic heart disease is a condition in which the heart valves have been permanently damaged by rheumatic fever.

Rib Fracture Repair

Sickle Cell Disease

Detailed information on sickle cell disease, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Sickle Cell Disease in Children

Sickle cell disease involves the red blood cells, or hemoglobin, and their ability to carry oxygen.

Spasmodic Dysphonia

Detailed information on spasmodic dysphonia, including types, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Teratogens Overview

The Adrenal Glands

Detailed information on the adrenal gland, its anatomy and function

Thrombocythemia

Detailed information on thrombocythemia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which a baby has too few platelets—the blood cells needed for clotting.

Thrombosis

Detailed information on thrombosis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Topic Index - High-Risk Newborn

Detailed information on high-risk newborns

Trigeminal Neuralgia: Microvascular Decompression

Types of Surgery for Children

Surgery can be classified as major or minor, depending on the seriousness of the illness, the parts of the body affected, the complexity of the operation, and the expected recovery time.

Water Safety and Teens

Encourage your adolescent to take swimming, diving, and water safety or rescue classes to give him/her the skills needed to swim and dive safely.

Water Safety for Children

Preventive steps parents can take to protect their children from drowning.

Leukemia

Detailed information on leukemia in childhood, including symptoms, staging, diagnosis, and treatment

Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction

Bladder dysfunction and bowel dysfunction refer to problems with urinating and passing stools. These may lead to the unwanted passage of urine or stool, called urinary or fecal incontinence.

Ceruloplasmin (Blood)

This test measures the amount of copper-containing protein in the blood. It can help diagnose copper disorders like Wilson's disease.

Haemophilus Influenzae Infections

Detailed information on Haemophilus influenzae, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, transmission, treatment, and prevention

Overview of Leukemias

Detailed overview of leukemia, including types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Detailed information on the different types of polycystic kidney disease, including autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, and acquired cystic kidney disease

Procedures and Equipment in NICU

NICUs are equipped with complex machines and devices to monitor nearly every system of a baby's body—temperature, heart rate, breathing, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, and blood pressure.

Sports Injuries Statistics

Detailed information on sports safety

Wilson Disease

If you have Wilson disease, a mutation, or defect, in your ATP7B gene prevents your body from properly getting rid of extra copper in your system.

Alpha-Fetoprotein (Blood)

If you are pregnant, this test looks for a fetal substance called alpha-fetoprotein in your blood. Higher levels of AFP may mean your fetus has a birth defect.

Beta Hemolytic Streptococcus Culture (Genital, Urine)

This test looks for group B streptococcus (GBS) bacteria in a culture sample either from your urine or from secretions in your vagina and rectum.

Borrelia Antibody (Blood)

This test measures the level of Borrelia antibodies in your blood. bacteria cause Lyme disease.

Catecholamines (Urine)

This test measures the levels of catecholamines in your urine. The test may help find out whether you have a rare type of tumor.

Cellulitis in Children

Detailed information on cellulitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Communication Disorders

Young children with communication disorders may not speak at all, or may have a limited vocabulary for their age. Some children with communication disorders have difficulty understanding simple directions or are unable to name objects.

Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation

A psychiatric evaluation will look at symptoms and when they occur, as well as what impact they have on family and work relationships.

Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation for Children

A psychiatric evaluation looks at the child's behaviors, when those behaviors occur, and what impact those behaviors have on school, family, and other relationships.

Deadly 'Choking Game' Appeals to Young Teens

< Apr. 18, 2012 > -- Many more young teens take part in the "choking game," a potentially lethal activity, than experts had thought.

Deformational Plagiocephaly

Detailed information on deformational plagiocephaly, including symptoms and treatment

Diabetes and High Blood Pressure

If you have diabetes, you are twice as likely to have high blood pressure. Untreated, high blood pressure can raise your risk for heart disease.

Fewer Women Than Men Meet Exercise Goal

U.S. women are less likely than their male counterparts to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, the recommended minimum. This raises their odds for health problems like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity.

Folate

This test measures the amount of folate in either your serum or your red blood cells.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Children or teens with generalized anxiety disorder often worry a lot about future events, past behaviors, social acceptance, and school performance.

Good News, Bad News About Americans’ Health

< Jun. 20, 2012 > -- Fewer Americans are smoking, but plenty are still overweight or obese, according to the latest survey on the nation's health.

Hypopituitarism

Detailed information on hypopituitarism, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Immunofixation by Electrophoresis (Urine)

This test separates and measures proteins in your urine. It looks for an abnormal protein called monoclonal protein, or M-protein.

Interventional Radiology

Detailed information on interventional radiology, including what procedures interventional radiologists perform

Lactate Dehydrogenase Isoenzymes

This test measures different enzymes in your blood. You may need this test if you've had a heart attack, or if you have a blood disorder or liver damage.

Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (Blood)

This test looks at how much of the enzyme LDH you have in your blood. Higher levels of this substance could mean you've had a heart attack or other tissue damage.

Large Jump in Imaging Scans Since 1996

Many more imaging scans are done these days, greatly boosting the amount of radiation that patients receive and raising questions about overuse of these imaging methods, a new analysis concludes.

Migraine Headaches

A migraine headache is unique among headaches because it includes symptoms other than pain. Nausea and vomiting, lightheadedness, and sensitivity to light are common with a migraine.

Mumps Antibody

This test looks for antibodies to the mumps virus in your blood. Mumps is a contagious disease that usually begins with flu-like symptoms.

Newborn Multiples

Because many multiples are small and born early, they may be initially cared for in a special care nursery called the neonatal intensive care unit.

Overactive Adrenal Glands/Cushing's Syndrome

Detailed information on overactive adrenal glands and Cushing's syndrome, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Overview of Cancer

Detailed information on cancer, including primary and metastatic cancers, and benign and malignant tumors

Overview of Craniofacial Anomalies

Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies, including cleft lip, cleft palate, craniosynostosis, hemifacial microsomia, vascular malformation, hemangioma, and deformational plagiocephaly

Patient-Controlled Analgesia Pumps

Patient-controlled analgesia is a method of pain management that allows you to decide when you will get a dose of pain medication. You don’t need to wait for a nurse, and you can get smaller doses of pain medicine more frequently.

Radiation Treatment in Childhood Boosts Breast Cancer Risk

Girls who get radiation therapy to the chest to treat cancer are at higher risk for breast cancer by the time they turn 50, a new study says.

Refractive Errors in Children

The most common refractive errors in children are nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Rheumatic Heart Disease in Children

Rheumatic heart disease is a condition in which permanent damage to heart valves is caused by rheumatic fever.

Rubeola (Measles)

Detailed information on measles, including symptoms, complications, prevention, and treatment

Rubeola Antibody (Blood)

This test finds out whether you have been exposed to the virus that causes measles, an extremely contagious disease.

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)

Detailed information on severe combined immunodeficiency, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Sympathectomy

During a sympathectomy, a surgeon cuts or clamps the sympathetic nerve chain runs up and down along your spine. This procedure is used to treat heavy sweating in the palms of the hands, the face, the underarms, and feet, as well as to treat facial blushing and Raynaud phenomenon.

The Craniofacial Team

Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies and the craniofacial anomaly treatment team

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone

This test measures your level of TSH, a hormone made by your pituitary. You may need this test if you have symptoms of thyroid problems.

Total Bilirubin (Blood)

This test is used to find out how well your liver is working. A small amount of bilirubin in your blood is normal. Too much may be a sign of liver disease.

Toxoplasma Gondii (Amniotic Fluid)

This test looks for a parasite that can infect an unborn child. A pregnant woman can pick up this parasite by eating undercooked meat, drinking contaminated water, or handling cat feces.

Types of Arbovirus Encephalitis

Detailed information on the most common types of encephalitis, including Japanese encephalitis, tickborne encephalitis, and arbovirus encephalitis

Types of Hearing Tests for Infants and Children

One type of hearing screening test for newborns uses a tiny, flexible plug that is inserted into the baby's ear. The other type of test uses electrodes attached with adhesive to the baby's scalp.

What Are Platelets?

If one of your blood vessels gets damaged, it sends out signals that are picked up by platelets. The platelets then rush to the site of damage and form a plug, or clot, to repair the damage.

Art, Dance, and Music

Detailed information on art therapy, dance therapy, and music therapy as a form of alternative therapy

Autism Spectrum Disorder

A child with autism appears to live in his or her own world, showing little interest in others and a lack of social awareness.

Biofeedback

Detailed information on biofeedback as a form of alternative therapy

Home Page - Oncology

Detailed information on cancer in children

Kidney Cancer

Detailed information on renal cell cancer, the most common type of kidney cancer, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Online Resources - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

List of online resources to find additional information on physical medicine and rehabilitation

Rhabdomyosarcoma

Detailed information on rhabdomyosarcoma, including causes, stages, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

The Growing Child

Detailed information on the growth and development of a child

Topic Index - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Detailed information on physical medicine and rehabilitation

Anemia in Pregnancy

Doctor appointments and baby showers aren’t the only things that can tucker you out when you’re pregnant. Anemia is a condition that also can make you feel fatigued. Find out what you need to know to safeguard yourself.

Arteriogram

Detailed information on arteriogram, also called angiogram, including information on how the procedure is performed

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a type of arteriosclerosis caused by a build-up of plaque in the inner lining of an artery.

Autosomal Recessive: Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell Anemia, Tay Sachs Disease

Detailed information on autosomal recessive inheritance, including cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Tay Sachs disease

Before Your Next Pregnancy

Are you ready to start thinking about a younger sibling for your baby? If so, here’s what you need to keep in mind before you prepare to keep growing your family.

Biopsy

Detailed information on biopsy, including the most common types of biopsy such as endoscopic biopsy, bone marrow biopsy, excisional biopsy, incisional biopsy, fine needle aspiration biopsy, punch biopsy, shave biopsy, and skin biopsy

Bronchiolitis

Detailed information on bronchiolitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Chickenpox

Detailed information on chickenpox, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and immunity

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Detailed information on chickenpox, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and immunity

Childhood Glaucoma

Detailed information on childhood glaucoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Common Surgical Procedures

Detailed information on the most common surgical procedures, including appendectomy, breast biopsy, carotid endarterectomy, cataract surgery, cesarean section, cholecystectomy, coronary artery bypass surgery, debridement of wound, dilation and curettage,

Cytomegalovirus (Amniotic Fluid)

This test checks a developing baby for cytomegalovirus (CMV), a virus that belongs to the herpes family of viruses.

Dietary Preferences Tied to Age, Race, and Location

Researchers trying to tease out dietary reasons for stroke risk have found that Americans follow one of five distinct dietary patterns, based on age, race, and where they live.

Effects of Rehabilitation on the Family

One of the most important factors in a patient's recovery is family involvement and support in his or her rehab.

Ethanol (Blood)

This test measures the amount of alcohol, or ethanol, in your blood. This test is used by law enforcement agencies and hospitals to find out the concentration of alcohol in a person’s blood.

Experts Voice Concern Over Synthetic ‘Pot’ Use in Teens

< Mar. 21, 2012 > -- Synthetic marijuana can be much stronger than the real stuff - so much so that a growing number of teens are ending up in the emergency room.

Fetal Echocardiography

Detailed information on fetal echocardiography, including how the fetal echocardiography is performed and what happens after the procedure

Galactosemia

This test looks for enzyme activity in the red blood cells in your child’s blood. It can help diagnose galactosemia, a rare inherited disorder.

Genetic Services for Children: When, Where, How

Detailed information on genetic services, including when, where, and how

Gestational Hypertension

Pregnancy-induced hypertension is also called toxemia or preeclampsia. It occurs most often in young women with a first pregnancy.

Growth Problems

Detailed information on growth problems, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hodgkin Disease

Detailed information on Hodgkin's lymphoma, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Hyperbaric Therapy for CO Poisoning and Decompression Sickness

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has helped heal a variety of illnesses. Over the years, research has shown that it can treat many conditions that involve oxygen-starved tissue.

Infant of Diabetic Mother

A baby born to a diabetic mother may need glucose orally or intravenously. The baby's blood glucose levels will be closely monitored after treatment.

MR Enterography

Magnetic resonance enterography, or MR enterography, is a minimally invasive imaging test that allows your doctor to obtain detailed pictures of your small bowel.

Multiple Sclerosis and Pregnancy

Pregnancy does not appear to speed up the course or worsen the effects of MS. Some studies have found that MS symptoms decrease in pregnancy and increase after delivery.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Detailed information on non-Hodgkins lymphoma, including symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment

Osteosarcoma

Detailed information on osteosarcoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Overview of Blood and Blood Components

Human blood consists of about 22 percent solids and 78 percent water. The components of blood are plasma, fat globules, chemicals, and gases.

Phenobarbital

This test measures the amount of the drug phenobarbital in your blood. Phenobarbital is used to treat epilepsy.

Plan and Prepare for Pregnancy

Detailed information on planning and preparing for a healthy pregnancy

Planning a Pregnancy

Planning ahead and taking care of yourself before becoming pregnant is the best thing you can do for you and your baby.

Precocious Puberty (Early Puberty)

Detailed information on precocious puberty, including causes, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Rabies in Children

Rabies occurs mainly in skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and bats. In some areas, these wild animals infect domestic cats, dogs, and livestock.

Salicylate (Blood)

This test looks for high levels of salicylate, the main ingredient in aspirin. It may be used to diagnose an aspirin overdose or to monitor people taking high doses for arthritis.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

All children and teens experience some anxiety—it's a normal part of growing up. When worries and fears abnormally focus on separation from home or family, the child may have separation anxiety disorder.

Small for Gestational Age

Although some babies are small because of genetics (their parents are small), most SGA babies are small because of fetal growth problems that occur during pregnancy.

Substance Abuse/Chemical Dependency

Substance abuse is a pattern of drug use that leads to significant problems such as failure to attend work or school, driving a vehicle while "high," or difficulties with friendships and or family relationships.

Tay-Sachs Disease

This test looks for specific genetic changes in a sample of your blood. These genetic mutations cause most cases of Tay-Sachs disease.

The Second Trimester

During this trimester, the weight of your growing baby will multiply more than seven times—and you will start showing more.

The Third Trimester

The third trimester marks the home stretch for your pregnancy. You may feel more uncomfortable now as you continue to gain weight. You also may have false labor contractions (called Braxton-Hicks contractions).

TORCH Panel

The TORCH panel test is used to help diagnose infections that could harm the fetus during pregnancy.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Detailed information on tuberculosis, including risks, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) in Children

Detailed information on tuberculosis, including risks, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Types of Genetic Diseases

Genetic diseases are classified by type: chromosomal abnormalities, single gene defects, problems caused by exposure to certain substances, or a combination of these.

Cystometry  (tests & procedures)

Cystometry may be recommended to evaluate problems related to the muscle function of the bladder and urethra.

Vital Signs (Body Temperature, Pulse Rate, Respiration Rate, Blood Pressure)

Vital signs are useful in detecting or monitoring medical problems. Vital signs can be measured in a medical setting, at home, at the site of a medical emergency, or elsewhere.

Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia

Detailed information on acute lymphocytic leukemia, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Detailed information on acute myelogenous leukemia, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Acute Spinal Cord Injury

Many types of trauma can cause an acute spinal cord injury. The more common types occur when the area of the spine or neck is bent or compressed.

Acute Spinal Cord Injury in Children

Many types of trauma can cause an acute spinal cord injury. The more common types occur when the area of the spine or neck is bent or compressed.

Bence-Jones Protein (Urine)

This urine test is used mainly to diagnose and monitor multiple myeloma, a blood cancer.

Bleeding in Pregnancy/Placenta Previa/Placental Abruption

Bleeding may occur at various times in pregnancy. Although bleeding is alarming, it may or may not be a serious complication.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

If you have body dysmorphic disorder, you may be so upset about the appearance of your body, that it interferes with your ability to function normally.

Buerger’s Disease

Buerger’s disease (thromboangiitis obliterans) is one of many types of vasculitis. This is inflammation that involves your blood vessels.

Cardiac Sarcoma

Cardiac sarcoma is a rare type of cancerous tumor that occurs in the heart.

Cardiomyopathy and Your Child

Cardiomyopathy is any disease of the heart muscle in which the heart loses its ability to pump blood effectively.

Claudication

Detailed information on claudication, including causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and a labeled, full-color anatomical illustration

Diagnostic Procedures for Cancer: Overview

Detailed information on the most common diagnostic procedures for cancer

Disorders of Sex Development

Detailed information on ambiguous genitalia, including determining gender and treatment

Electromyography (EMG)  (tests & procedures)

Electromyography (EMG) measures muscle response or electrical activity in response to a nerve’s stimulation of the muscle. The test is used to help detect neuromuscular abnormalities.

Fluphenazine Drug Level (Blood)

This test measures the amount of fluphenazine in your blood. The medication is used to treat schizophrenia and Tourette's syndrome.

Glossary - Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases

Online medical glossary of terms relating to arthritis and other rheumatic diseases written for patients and consumers

Glossary - Radiology

Glossary of terms relating to radiology

Growth and Development

Children with congenital heart disease often grow and develop more slowly than other children.

Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b is a serious bacterial disease that usually strikes children younger than 5. It is spread from person-to-person by coughing and sneezing.

Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP)

Detailed information on Henoch-Schönlein purpura, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

High Blood Pressure in Teens

Detailed information on high blood pressure, also called hypertension, including symptoms, diagnostic, and treatment information

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

Newborn babies with this condition often appear thin, pale, and have loose, dry skin. The umbilical cord is often thin and dull-looking rather than shiny and fat.

Li-Fraumeni Syndrome

Li-Fraumeni syndrome raises the risk for breast cancer and many other types of cancer.

Lithotripsy  (tests & procedures)

Lithotripsy treats certain kidney stones with ultrasonic energy, or shock waves, once they are located with fluoroscopy or ultrasound.

Low Birthweight

If your baby’s birthweight was lower than normal due to premature birth or some other factor, don’t worry. With proper medical attention and your loving care, your baby will soon catch up with the other children in the nursery.

Oral Cancer

Ninety percent of oral cancer cases are caused by tobacco use. Oral cancer can affect the lips, teeth, gums, and lining of the mouth.

Other Colorectal Cancer Syndromes

Several rare syndromes raise the risk for colorectal cancer. These disorders include Turcot syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, juvenile polyposis coli, and MYH-associated polyposis.

Ovarian Cancer as Part of Lynch Syndrome

A woman with this type of hereditary colon cancer is at increased risk for ovarian cancer.

Overview of the Vascular System

Detailed information on vascular conditions, including a description of the vascular system, causes and effects of vascular disease, and a full-color anatomical illustration

Pediatric Glossary - Respiratory Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to respiratory disorders

Pervasive Developmental Disorders

Children with PDD have difficulty with language, communication, socialization, and motor behaviors. Autism is an example of a PDD.

Preventing Falls

About 75 percent of all falls occur at home. Taking certain precautions and exercising to stay physically strong can prevent many of them.

Problems With Vision

Eye disorders in children are either refractive or non-refractive errors. Refractive errors are those caused by the shape of the eye. Non-refractive errors are caused by disease.

Recursos en la Red - Medicina Física y Rehabilitacián

Recursos en la Red - Trastornos del Sistema Nervioso

Topic Index - Cardiovascular Diseases

Detailed information on the most common types cardiovascular diseases, including symptoms, prevention, diagnostic, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, ICDs, and treatment information

Types of Visual Screening Tests for Infants and Children

Many types of vision tests can be used to check your child's ability to see. Some of them can be used at any age, and some are used based on your child's age and understanding.

Very Low Birthweight

Very low birthweight is a term used to describe babies who are born weighing less than 3 pounds, 4 ounces. Only a few babies are born this tiny.

X-rays of the Spine, Neck, or Back  (tests & procedures)

This procedure may be used to diagnose back or neck pain, fractures or broken bones, arthritis, degeneration of the disks, tumors, or other problems.

AIDS/HIV in Children

Detailed information on HIV and AIDS, including transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Bone Marrow Transplantation in Children

The goal of a bone marrow transplant is to transfuse healthy bone marrow cells into a child after his or her own unhealthy bone marrow has been eliminated.

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Spine  (tests & procedures)

A CT scan of the spine may be performed to assess the spine for a herniated disk, tumors and other lesions, the extent of injuries, structural anomalies such as spina bifida, blood vessel malformations, or other conditions.

Diabetes and Pregnancy

It's important for a woman with diabetes to keep her blood sugar under tight control while she's pregnant.

Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that includes a combination of birth defects, including some degree of mental retardation, characteristic facial features and, often, heart defects.

Eisenmenger's Syndrome

Eisenmenger’s syndrome primarily affects adolescents and adults with congenital heart defects that were repaired after their first birthday or that were never repaired.

Glossary - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to genitourinary and kidney disorders in children

Glossary - Medical Genetics

Glossary of terms relating to medical genetics

Glossary - Orthopedic Surgery

Glossary of terms relating to orthopedics

Glossary - Plastic Surgery

Glossary of terms relating to plastic surgery

Laminectomy  (tests & procedures)

Laminectomy is a type of surgery in which a physician removes part or all of the vertebral bone to relieve compression of the spinal cord or the nerve roots.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Detailed information on obstructive sleep apnea, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Overview of Labor

Labor usually starts two weeks before or after the estimated date of delivery. However, no one knows exactly what triggers the onset of labor.

Pediatric Glossary - Dermatology

Glossary of terms relating to dermatology and common skin conditions for patients and consumers

Spinal Cord Injury

A traumatic injury to the spine can cause a bruise, a partial tear, or a complete tear in the spinal cord. The most common sites of injury are the cervical and thoracic areas.

Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers (Peptic Ulcers)

Detailed information on stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and peptic ulcers

The First Trimester

A healthy first trimester is crucial to the normal development of your baby. You may not be showing much on the outside, but inside, all the major body organs and systems of the fetus are forming.

Varicose Veins

Detailed information on varicose veins, including causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and full-color anatomical illustrations

Acute Liver Failure

Acute liver failure is a rare condition that happens when your liver suddenly begins to lose its ability to function. This is frequently the immediate result of an overdose of medication or poisoning.

Blood Circulation in the Fetus and Newborn

During pregnancy, the fetal lungs are not used for breathing—the placenta does the work of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide through the mother's circulation. With the first breaths of air the baby takes at birth, the fetal circulation changes.

Catecholamines (Blood)

This test measures the levels of catecholamines in your blood. The catecholamine hormones are epinephrine, also called adrenaline; norepinephrine; and dopamine.

Cytomegalovirus (Urine)

This test looks for cytomegalovirus, a common virus that belongs to the herpes family. Your doctor might order the test if you have unexplained symptoms that resemble the flu.

Depression May Raise Risk for Early Death in Stroke Survivors

< Jan. 16, 2013 > -- It's normal to feel a little blue from time to time. But when feelings of sadness take over, it may be depression, a serious mental health condition that can affect all aspects of a person's life . For people who have suffered a stroke, depression may be especially harmful. A new study suggests stroke survivors who develop depression may die sooner.

Fetal Circulation

Through the blood vessels in the umbilical cord, the fetus receives all the necessary nutrition, oxygen, and life support from the mother through the placenta.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

This test measures the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), an important hormone made in your pituitary gland.

Free and Bound Triiodothyronine (Blood)

This test measures the level of triiodothyronine (T3) in your blood. T3 is a type of hormone made by your thyroid gland.

Insomnia Exacts a High Price on the Job

< Oct. 03, 2012 > -- If you struggle with insomnia, you may not nod off at your desk at work, but sleepiness on the job might lead you to make errors you would catch if you were fully rested.

Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis

Langerhans cell histiocytosis most often strikes young children and causes damage to tissues throughout the body.

More Women Face Mental Illness

You may pay more attention to your physical health than how you feel mentally. Like any physical ailment, though, conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse can tax your body. More than 45 million Americans struggle with a mental health problem, and many of them are women. Knowing more about mental illness, including the warning signs, can help keep your body - and mind - healthy.

Sick Sinus Syndrome

Sick sinus syndrome is a type of abnormal heartbeat, or arrhythmia. If you have this condition, you may have episodes when your heart beats very slowly, stops beating for a short while, or beats very rapidly.

Sjogren's Antibody (Blood)

This test checks for antibodies that are a sign of Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease that makes it hard for your glands to produce enough moisture.

The Total-Body Toll of Obesity

Many Americans realize that obesity is more than a cosmetic concern. A recent poll found that 78 percent knew that obesity can raise the risk for heart disease. Seventy percent recognized a link with diabetes. But what about high blood pressure? Cancer? Arthritis? When asked about obesity’s effects on the body, fewer people mentioned such consequences.

Total Testosterone

This test measures the level of testosterone in your blood. Both men and women produce this hormone.

Abdominal Angiogram  (tests & procedures)

An abdominal angiogram, also called an abdominal arteriogram, is an x-ray image of the blood vessels used to evaluate various vascular conditions within the abdomen.

Corrective Eye Surgery for Refractive Errors

Detailed information on the most common types of corrective eye surgery for refractive errors, including lasik surgery, photorefractive keratectomy surgery, radial keratotomy surgery, astigmatic keratotomy surgery, and automated lamellar keratoplasty surg

Glossary - The Child Having Surgery

Glossary of terms relating to surgery in children

Glossary - Urology

Glossary of terms relating to urology

Heart Transplantation Procedure  (tests & procedures)

A heart transplant is a surgical procedure performed to remove the diseased heart from a patient and replace it with a healthy one from an organ donor.

Peripheral Vascular Disease

Detailed information on peripheral vascular disease, including symptoms, diagnostic, and treatment information

Renal Angiogram  (tests & procedures)

A renal angiogram, also called an arteriogram, is an x-ray image of the blood vessels of the kidneys.

Bone Marrow Transplantation

Detailed information on bone marrow transplant, including preparation, types of transplant, transplant team, and possible procedure-related complications or side effects

Chagas Disease

The parasite Trypanosoma cruzi causes Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis). The feces of insects called triatomine, or “kissing” bugs, transmits the parasite to people.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Diabetes

Are you tempted to try herbal remedies that promise to “cure” diabetes without prescription medication? Be sure you understand the limitations.

Complications of Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment

Side effects of HBOT are generally mild as long as the therapy lasts no longer than two hours and the pressure inside the chamber is less than three times that of the normal pressure in the atmosphere.

D-Dimer

This test is used to rule out whether you have a blood clot. When blood clots form and start to break down, they release the substance D-dimer into the blood.

Femoral Popliteal Bypass Surgery  (tests & procedures)

Femoral popliteal (also called femoropopliteal) bypass surgery is a surgical procedure that may be used to treat severe blockage due to plaque in the femoral artery. The femoral and popliteal arteries are located in the legs.

Glossary - Men's Health

Glossary of terms relating to men's health

Growth Hormone with Stimulation (Blood)

This test measures the level of growth hormone in your blood by stimulating hormone production.

Osteosarcoma in Children

Detailed information on osteosarcoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMDD is a much more severe form of premenstrual syndrome. Women with a personal or family history of mood disorders or postpartum depression may be at higher risk for this disorder.

Proctectomy

Rheumatic Fever

Detailed information on rheumatic fever, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Stages of Breast Cancer

When breast cancer is diagnosed, your doctor will order tests to find out if the cancer has spread from the breast to other parts of the body. This is called staging and is an important step toward planning a treatment program.

Staying Healthy After Menopause

Good nutrition and regular exercise can help you stay healthy and youthful at this stage of life.