Acne Acne Home Overview Acne is a prevalent skin condition characterized by clogging of hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells, resulting in the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Types Comedonal acne: These are marked by blackheads and whiteheads.Inflammatory acne: These are marked by papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Symptoms PimplesRednessSwellingSometimes pain Causes Hormonal changesExcess oil productionBacterial infectionGenetics Diagnosis Physical examination and medical history. Treatment Topical treatments (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide), oral medications (antibiotics, isotretinoin), and other procedures including chemical peels, laser therapy (Harmony XL Pro), and PRP therapy, based on the severity of the symptoms. Read more about Acne Filter Alphabet A
Colon Cancer Colon Cancer Home Overview Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum, both parts of the digestive system. It typically develops from abnormal growths called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum, which can turn into cancer over time. Risk factors Several factors can increase the risk of developing colon cancer, including:Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 50.Family history: A family history of colon cancer or certain inherited genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), increases the risk.Lifestyle factors:A diet high in red or processed meats.Sedentary lifestyle.Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption.Medical conditions:Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.Type 2 diabetes. Symptoms In the early stages, colon cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, the following symptoms might occur:Blood in the stool (either bright red or dark)Unexplained weight lossPersistent abdominal pain or discomfortChanges in bowel habits (e.g., diarrhoea or constipation)Feeling that the bowel does not empty completelyFatigue Diagnosis A colon cancer diagnosis generally involves a series of tests and procedures to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its stage. The steps in the diagnostic process typically include:Physical examination: The doctor might conduct a physical exam, including a digital rectal exam (DRE), where the physician checks for abnormalities in the rectum.Screening tests:Faecal occult blood test (FOBT) or Faecal immunochemical test (FIT): These tests detect small amounts of blood in the stool that may not be visible to the naked eye. Blood in the stool could be a sign of cancer or polyps.Colonoscopy: This is the gold standard for colon cancer screening. It involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) into the rectum to view the inside of the colon. If any abnormal areas, such as polyps or tumours, are found, they can be biopsied (sampled for further analysis).Imaging tests:CT Colonography (virtual colonoscopy): This imaging test uses CT scans to create detailed images of the colon and rectum and can detect abnormal growths. However, if abnormalities are found, a traditional colonoscopy may be required for biopsy.CT or MRI: These may be used to assess whether the cancer has spread to other organs like the liver, lungs, or lymph nodes.Biopsy: If a suspicious area is found during colonoscopy or imaging, a biopsy is performed to confirm whether the tissue is cancerous. This involves taking a small sample of the tissue and examining it under a microscope.Staging tests: Once cancer is confirmed, additional tests are conducted to determine the stage of the cancer, which describes how far it has spread. This is crucial for determining the best treatment approach. Staging tests can include:Endoscopic ultrasound: To check for the spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes or the wall of the colon.PET scan: To detect cancer spread to distant organs.Blood tests: Including the CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) test, which is sometimes used to monitor cancer or detect recurrence (though not used for initial diagnosis).Genetic testing (in some cases): Genetic testing may be recommended, especially if there’s a family history of colon cancer or certain inherited genetic conditions (like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis). Genetic mutations can sometimes influence treatment decisions and the likelihood of recurrence. Treatment Treatment for colon cancer depends on the stage of the disease and may involve one or a combination of the following:Surgery: Removing the tumour or part of the colon (colectomy). In some cases, a colostomy or ileostomy may be required.Chemotherapy: Drugs used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumours, either before or after surgery.Radiation therapy: Often used in rectal cancer or to shrink tumours before surgery.Targeted therapy & immunotherapy: These newer treatments target specific proteins or genes involved in cancer cell growth, or help the immune system fight the cancer. Prevention Colon cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer through screening and lifestyle changes. It's typically recommended to begin screening at age 45, but those with a family history of colon cancer may need to start earlier.Screening: Regular screening can help detect precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers. The most common screening tests include:Colonoscopy: A procedure that allows doctors to view the inside of the colon and remove polyps during the same procedure.Stool tests: Such as the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) or stool DNA test.CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) and sigmoidoscopy are alternatives in certain cases.Lifestyle changes:Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.Exercising regularly.Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.Maintaining a healthy weight. Read more about Colon Cancer Filter Alphabet C
Hirsutism Hirsutism Home Overview Hirsutism is a condition observed in women characterised by excessive growth of hair in areas where men typically grow terminal hair, such as the face, back, and chest region. Types Idiopathic hirsutism: No identifiable cause.Secondary hirsutism: Caused by underlying conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Symptoms Coarse, dark hair growth in a male pattern. Causes Elevated androgen levelsPCOSAdrenal gland disordersCertain medications Diagnosis Blood tests for measuring hormone levels and ultrasonography or CT. Treatment Medications (oral contraceptives and anti-androgens)Laser hair removal (Harmony XL Pro) Read more about Hirsutism Filter Alphabet H
Infective Colitis Infective Colitis Home Overview Infective colitis refers to inflammation of the colon (large intestine) caused by an infection, typically resulting from bacterial, viral, or parasitic pathogens. It is a common cause of diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort, and it can vary in severity from mild to severe, depending on the underlying infection and the patient's overall health. Causes Infective colitis can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including:Bacterial infections: Common bacterial causes include:Escherichia coli (E. coli): Particularly E. coli O157:H7, which produces toxins that can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms.Salmonella spp: Often contracted from contaminated food or water.Campylobacter jejuni: A leading cause of bacterial diarrhoea worldwide.Shigella spp: Highly contagious bacteria that cause severe diarrhoea and abdominal cramping.Clostridium difficile (C. diff): Typically arises after antibiotic use, leading to an overgrowth of the bacteria in the colon and causing severe colitis.Viral infections:Norovirus: A highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis.Rotavirus: A common cause of gastroenteritis in children.Adenovirus: Can also lead to gastroenteritis, particularly in children.Parasitic infections:Entamoeba histolytica: A parasitic infection that can cause amoebic dysentery.Giardia lamblia: A protozoan parasite that can cause watery diarrhoea.Cryptosporidium spp: Often contracted through contaminated water sources. Symptoms The symptoms of infective colitis vary based on the causative pathogen but generally include:Diarrhoea: Can be watery, bloody, or mucoid, depending on the pathogen.Abdominal pain and crampingFever (especially with bacterial infections like Salmonella or Shigella)Nausea and vomiting (more common with viral infections)FatigueDehydration (from severe diarrhoea)In severe cases, the infection can lead to complications such as:SepsisToxic megacolonIntestinal perforationHaemorrhage Diagnosis Diagnosis is typically made through:Stool cultures: To identify the specific pathogen, especially for bacterial and parasitic infections.Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): For detecting specific viral or bacterial pathogens.Blood tests: To check for signs of infection, dehydration, and systemic involvement (e.g., elevated white blood cell count).Endoscopy/Colonoscopy: In some cases, to directly visualise the colon and take biopsy samples for further testing. Treatment The treatment of infective colitis depends on the causative organism and the severity of symptoms:Supportive care:Hydration: Oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids for dehydration.Electrolyte replacement: Especially if diarrhoea is severe or prolonged.Antibiotics:For bacterial infections: Specific antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin for Salmonella, metronidazole for C. diff, or azithromycin for Campylobacter).C. difficile colitis: Treated with oral vancomycin or fidaxomicin.Antibiotics for parasitic infections (e.g., metronidazole for Giardia or Entamoeba histolytica).Antiviral treatment: For certain viral infections, antiviral medications may be considered, but most viral infections (like norovirus or rotavirus) are self-limiting.Avoiding antibiotics for self-limited infections: In some cases, such as with Shigella or Salmonella infection, antibiotics may not be needed and can even cause harm (e.g., in the case of non-typhoidal Salmonella).Probiotics: In some cases, probiotics may be recommended to help restore the normal gut flora, especially after treatment with antibiotics, although their role is still debated. Prevention Prevention strategies for infective colitis include:Hand hygiene: Thorough handwashing, especially before eating and after using the restroom.Food safety: Proper food handling, cooking, and storage to prevent bacterial contamination.Water safety: Ensuring access to clean water and avoiding untreated water sources.Vaccination: Vaccines for rotavirus can prevent viral gastroenteritis in children. Read more about Infective Colitis Filter Alphabet I
Hair Thinning and Hair Loss Hair Thinning and Hair Loss Home Overview Hair thinning and hair loss have an effect on men and women both and can cause reduced hair density and bald patches. Types Androgenetic alopecia: This is a prevalent form of hair loss seen in both men and women. It is often referred to as "male pattern baldness" in men and "female pattern hair loss" in women. In men, hair loss follows a defined pattern, originating above the temples and gradually receding to form a characteristic "M" shape. Thinning also occurs at the top of the head, which may lead to partial or complete baldness over time. In women, thinning occurs primarily at the top of the head, with a widening of the middle part. The hairline generally remains intact and does not recede. Complete baldness is rare in women with androgenetic alopecia.Telogen effluvium: This is a temporary type of hair loss affecting people who experience severe stress or a major change in their body, such as hormonal changes or illness. Hair thinning is observed, which is generally concentrated around the top of the head. Symptoms Thinning hairReceding hairlineBald patches Causes GeneticsHormonal changesStressNutritional deficiencies Diagnosis Scalp examination and medical history by a dermatologist. Treatment Hair loss treatment includes PRP therapyRegenera ActivaFair mesotherapy, based on the underlying cause. Read more about Hair Thinning and Hair Loss Filter Alphabet H
Lip Darkening Lip Darkening Home Overview Lip darkening refers to the discolouration of the lips, making them appear darker than their natural colour. Types Hyperpigmentation: Darkening due to excess melanin.Cyanosis: Blue or purple discolouration due to low oxygen levels. Symptoms Darkened lipsUneven lip colour Causes Sun exposureSmokingDehydrationCertain medicationsUnderlying health conditions Diagnosis Visual examination and medical history review. Treatment Topical lightening agentsQ-Switch YAG laserLifestyle changes Read more about Lip Darkening Filter Alphabet L
Stretch Marks Stretch Marks Home Overview Stretch marks, or striae, are long, narrow streaks or lines that develop due to rapid stretching of the skin. Types Striae rubrae: New, red, or purple stretch marks.Striae albae: Old, white, or silver stretch marks. Symptoms Indented streaks on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, or other areas. Causes PregnancyRapid weight gain or lossGrowth spurtsCorticosteroid use Diagnosis Physical examination by a dermatologist. Treatment Topical treatments (retinoids)Laser therapy (Harmony XL Pro)Microneedling, or PRP therapy as deemed suitable. Read more about Stretch Marks Filter Alphabet S
Irregular Pigmentation Irregular Pigmentation Home Overview Pigmentation involves skin darkening caused by excessive melanin production. Types Hypopigmentation: It is marked by a lighter skin tone in the affected area.Hyperpigmentation: It is marked by a darker skin tone in the affected area. Symptoms Dark or lighter patches or spots on the skin. Causes Sun exposureHormonal changesCertain diseasesInflammation Diagnosis Skin examination and medical history by a dermatologist. Treatment Topical agentsChemical peelsLaser therapyPRP therapy, depending on the condition and underlying cause Read more about Irregular Pigmentation Filter Alphabet I
Freckles Freckles Home Overview Freckles are small and flat brown spots that commonly appear on skin areas exposed to the sun. Types Common freckles (Ephelides): Typically small, red to light brown spots that are most common in fair-skinned individuals. These freckles appear generally during childhood, increase during adolescence, and may fade with age. They are usually seen on the face, neck, chest, and arms and darken during summertime.Age spots (Lentigines): Larger and darker than common freckles, age spots are more common after age 50 on areas with chronic sun-exposure (like the face, hands, and forearm). Unlike common freckles, their pigmentation remains consistent throughout the year. Symptoms SmallBrown spots on the faceArmsShoulders Causes Sun exposureGenetic predisposition Diagnosis Visual examination by a dermatologist. Treatment Laser treatmentsChemical peelsTopical lightening agents, based on the cause and severity Read more about Freckles Filter Alphabet F
Amoebic Colitis Amoebic Colitis Home Overview Amoebic colitis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. It is a type of amoebiasis, a disease primarily affecting the colon, although it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, and brain. Causes The infection is transmitted via the faecal-oral route, typically through the consumption of food or water contaminated with Entamoeba histolytica cysts. It is common in areas with poor sanitation, particularly in parts of the developing world.Pathogenesis:Ingestion of cysts: The cysts are ingested through contaminated food or water. Once they reach the intestines, they release trophozoites, which are the active form of the parasite.Invasion of the colonic mucosa: The trophozoites invade the mucosal lining of the colon, causing inflammation and ulceration. They can also spread to other organs, especially the liver, leading to abscess formation.Tissue damage: The parasite produces enzymes and other factors that cause tissue destruction, leading to the symptoms of amoebic colitis. Symptoms Diarrhoea (which may be bloody and mucousy)Abdominal pain (cramping or constant)FeverNausea and vomitingWeight lossFatigueIn severe cases, the condition can lead to colonic perforation and sepsis. Diagnosis Stool examination: Identification of Entamoeba histolytica cysts or trophozoites in stool samples.Serological tests: Detection of antibodies or antigens related to the parasite.Endoscopy or colonoscopy: Visual examination of the colon can reveal characteristic ulcers or lesions.Imaging: In cases where there is suspicion of extra-intestinal involvement (like liver abscess), imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan) may be used. Treatment Antiprotozoal medications:Metronidazole or Tinidazole: These are the first-line treatments for amoebic colitis, as they effectively kill the trophozoites.Luminal agents (e.g., Paromomycin or Iodoquinol): These are used to treat any remaining cysts in the intestines after the systemic infection has been controlled.Supportive care: Fluid and electrolyte management to prevent dehydration, especially in severe cases with diarrhoea.Surgical intervention: In rare cases where there is perforation, abscess formation, or severe complications, surgery may be required. Prevention Improved sanitation: Access to clean water and proper sanitation can significantly reduce the risk of infection.Handwashing: Regular handwashing, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food.Food and water safety: Avoiding potentially contaminated food or drinking water, especially in areas with poor hygiene. Read more about Amoebic Colitis Filter Alphabet A