Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare neuromuscular autoimmune disorder characterized by fluctuating weakness of skeletal muscle groups that worsens with use and improves with rest. Pathophysiology Clinical features and treatment response depends on the types of antibodies present in MG. The largest percentage of patients have antibodies that attack the acetylcholine receptors (AChR), disrupting the … Read more
Leukemia refers to a group of cancers affecting the blood and other blood-forming tissues of the lymphatic system, bone marrow, and spleen. Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer but can occur in all age groups. Like other cancers, leukemia results from a mutation in the DNA of cells. The overproduction of abnormal cells crowd … Read more
Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by elevated uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. This type of arthritis is known for its painful flares that can last up to two weeks following periods without any symptoms. Overview Gout primarily occurs when there is an overproduction of … Read more
Pneumothorax or collapsed lung is caused by air leaking into the pleural cavity. In a normal lung, negative pressure exists between the visceral and parietal pleura or the pleural space. This pleural space contains minimal fluid that serves as lubrication when the tissues move. When air enters the pleural space, changes to the pressure will … Read more
Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), also known as C. difficile, is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria. The spores survive in unfavorable conditions and are easily transmitted through contact with objects and humans. C. difficile infection causes colitis and diarrhea. Nursing Process Since C. difficile infection is often related to a current antibiotic regimen that the patient is … Read more
Cardiomyopathy is used to describe a disorder that affects the heart muscle. It is characterized by the thickening, stretching, and stiffening of the heart, affecting the ability of the heart to pump blood. Types of Cardiomyopathy Cardiomyopathy can affect anyone at any age and may have no known cause. These are the three major types … Read more
Cigarette smoking, a leading cause of preventable death all over the world, affects nearly all organs in the body, results in various diseases, and reduces overall well-being. Smoking can cause the following adverse health effects: Tobacco, which is the primary material used in cigarettes, contains toxic substances including carbon dioxide, nicotine, and tar. Carbon dioxide … Read more
Cancer, one of the leading causes of death in the world, is characterized by the unregulated or uncontrolled growth of cells that infiltrate and damage tissues and organs in the body. Symptoms of cancer can vary depending on which part of the body is affected. Some of the general signs of cancer include: Cancer cells … Read more
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD), also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD), is a condition characterized by slow and progressive narrowing of the arteries of the extremities. This condition stems from structural damage in the blood vessels often caused by atherosclerosis when plaque blocks the flow of blood. Though PVD mainly affects the legs and feet, … Read more
Syncope is referred to as a brief lapse in consciousness causing fainting which is related to insufficient blood flow to the brain. Syncope is not usually a cause for concern but can be a warning sign for other illnesses. Overview Common causes of syncope include the following: Syncope can be benign or a symptom of … Read more