Friday, 20 December 2013

Transitional Cell Cancer (Malignant Neoplasm of Ureter)

What is a Malignant Neoplasm of the Ureter? The tube that connects the kidneys to the bladder is known as the ureter. Most healthy people have two kidneys and, therefor, two ureters. The top of each ureter is found in the middle of the kidney in an area known as the renal pelvis. Urine collects in the renal pelvis and is drained by the ureter into the bladder. The renal pelvis and the ureter are lined with specific types of cells called transitional cells. These cells are able to bend and stretch without breaking apart. When cancer develops in the renal pelvis or ureter, it begins in the transitional cells. This type of cancer is known as malignant neoplasm of the ureter. It is more commonly called transitional cell cancer. Neoplasm is another word for tumor or cancer. In many instances, transitional cell cancer metastasizes. Metastasis occurs when cancer from one organ or part of the body spreads to another organ or part of the body. http://kyleleonreviewscam.sosblogs.com/The-first-blog-b1/Are-these-stars-too-thin-b1-p13.htm

What Causes Transitional Cell Cancer? Transitional cell cancer is extremely rare. The causes of the disease have not been fully identified. However, genetic factors have been noted to cause the disease in some patients. Other potential risk factors for the development of this type of cancer include: abuse of certain pain medications or over-the-counter medications for long periods of time, primarily phenacetin, which has not been sold in the U.S. since 1983 (Colin et al., 2009) people who worked in the chemical industry and plastics industry, as well as people exposed to coal, tar, and asphalt (Colin et al., 2009) smoking This type of cancer can be difficult to diagnose. Your doctor will initially complete a physical exam to check for signs of the disease. He or she will order a urinalysis to check your urine for blood, protein, and bacteria. Based on the results of these tests, your doctor may order additional tests to evaluate the inside of the bladder, ureter, and renal pelvis. Additional tests may include: a uteroscopy to check for abnormalities in the ureter and renal pelvis an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) to evaluate the flow of fluid from the kidneys to the bladder a CT scan of the kidneys and bladder an ultrasound of the abdomen an MRI a biopsy of cells from the renal pelvis or ureter Read more How Is Transitional Cell Cancer Treated? Proven Treatment Options Current treatments for malignant neoplasm of the ureter include: Nephroureterectomy: http://kyleleonreviewscam.blog.com/2013/12/19/stars%E2%80%99-diet-for-weight-loss/

This procedure involves the removal of the kidney, ureter, and bladder tissue. Segmental resection: This procedure involves the removal of the part of the ureter that contains the cancer. Clinical Trials Clinical trials are new therapies that are currently being tested for treatment of a disease. Clinical trials for the treatment of malignant neoplasm of the ureter include: Fulguration: This is a surgical procedure that destroys cancer cells with an electrical current. Segmental resection of the renal pelvis: This procedure involves the removal of the part of the renal pelvis that contains the cancer. Laser surgery: Laser surgery uses laser beams to target the cancer and destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is standard treatment for many types of cancers. Chemotherapy drugs are now being developed to treat malignant neoplasm of the ureter. Regional biological therapy: This therapeutic approach uses biological agents to target the cancer cells in the ureter.http://kyleleonreviewscam.snappages.com/blog/2013/12/18/stars%E2%80%99-diet-for-weight-loss

Hypocalcemia

Definition Hypocalcemia, a low bood calcium level, occurs when the concentration of free calcium ions in the blood falls below 4.0 mg/dL (dL=one tenth of a liter). The normal concentration of free calcium ions in the blood serum is 4.0–6.0 mg/dL. Description Calcium is an important mineral for maintaining human helath. It is not only a component of bones and teeth, but is also essential for normal blood clotting and necessary for normal muscle and nerve functions. The calcium ion (Ca2+) has two positive charges. In bone, calcium ions occur as a complex with phosphate to form crystals of calcium phosphate. In the bloodstream, calcium ions also occur in complexes, and here calcium is found combined with proteins and various nutrients. However, in the bloodstream, calcium also occurs in a free form. Normally, about 47% of the calcium in the blood plasma is free, while 53% occurs in a complexed form. Although all of the calcium in the bloodstream serves a useful purpose, it is only the concentration of free calcium ions which has a direct influence on the functioning of our nerves and muscles. http://www.ez9articles.appspot.com/article/chronological-presentation-of-the-main-scientific-studies

For this reason, the measurement of the concentration of free calcium is more important, in the diagnosis of disease, than measuring the level of total calcium or of complexed calcium. The level of total calcium in the blood serum is normally 8.5–10.5 mg/dL, while the level of free calcium is normally 4–5 mg/dl. Causes and symptoms Hypocalcemia can be caused by hypoparathyroidism, by failure to produce 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, by low levels of plasma magnesium, or by failure to get adequate amounts of calcium or vitamin D in the diet. Hypoparathyroidism involves the failure of the parathyroid gland to make parathyroid hormone. Parathyroid hormone controls and maintains plasma calcium levels. The hormone exerts its effect on the kidneys, where it triggers the synthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. Thus, hypocalcemia can be independently caused by damage to the parathyroid gland or to the kidneys. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D stimulates the uptake of calcium from the diet and the mobilization of calcium from the bone. Bone mobilization means the natural process by which the body dissolves part of the bone in the skeleton in order to maintain or raise the levels of plasma calcium ions. Low plasma magnesium levels (hypomagnesia) can result in hypocalcemia. Hypomagnesemia can occur with alcoholism or with diseases characterized by an inability to properly absorb fat. Magnesium is required for parathyroid hormone to play its part in maintaining plasma calcium levels. http://kyleleonhealthreview.blogspot.com/2013/12/are-these-stars-too-thin.html

For this reason, any disease that results in lowered plasma magnesium levels may also cause hypocalcemia. Hypocalcimia may also result from the consumption of toxic levels of phosphate. Phosphate is a constituent of certain enema formulas. An enema is a solution that is used to cleanse the intestines via a hose inserted into the rectum. Cases of hypocalcemia have been documented where people swallowed enema formulas, or where an enema has been administered to an infant. Symptoms of severe hypocalcemia include numbness or tingling around the mouth or in the feet and hands, as well as in muscle spasms in the face, feet, and hands. Hypocalcemia can also result in depression, memory loss, or hallucinations. Severe hypocalcemia occurs when serum free calcium is under 3 mg/dL. Chronic and moderate hypocalcemia can result in cataracts (damage to the eyes). In this case, the term "chronic" means lasting one year or longer.http://teslio.com/blog/post/kyleleonreviewscam/are-these-stars-too-thin-5174

Septic Shock

Septic Shock Septic shock is what happens as a complication of an infection where toxins can initiate a full-body inflammatory response. It often occurs in people who are elderly or have a weakened immune system. It is thought that the inflammation resulting from sepsis causes tiny blood clots to form, which can block oxygen and nutrients from reaching vital organs. As a result, the organs fail, causing a profound septic shock. This may cause a drop in blood pressure and may result in death. In fact, septic shock is the most common cause of death in intensive care units in the United States (Fitch, et al., 2002). Doctors have identified three stages of sepsis: sepsis, when an infection reaches the bloodstream and causes inflammation throughout the body severe sepsis, which occurs when infection disrupts blood flow to the brain or kidneys, leading to organ failure. Blood clots cause gangrene (tissue death) in the arms, legs, fingers, and toes. septic shock, when blood pressure drops significantly. This can lead to respiratory, heart, or organ failure and death. What Are the Symptoms of Septic Shock? If you recently had surgery, have been released home, and experience any of the symptoms below, immediate medical treatment may be necessary. http://www.yooarticles.net/article/consumption-of-psychotropic-drugs

The earlier that treatment with antibiotics and intravenous (IV) fluids can be administered, the greater a person’s chance for surviving septic shock. Symptoms of septic shock require that only one of the following signs be present: patches of discolored skin noticeably lower amounts of urination confusion problems breathing abnormal heart functions, such as palpitations or rapid heart rate chills due to fall in body temperature extreme weakness or lightheadedness If you have symptoms of sepsis, the next step is to conduct tests to determine how far along the infection is. Diagnosis is often made with a blood test. This type of test can determine if any of the following factors are present: bacteria in the blood problems with clotting due to low platelet count excess waste products in the blood abnormal liver or kidney function decreased amount of oxygen electrolyte imbalance Depending on your symptoms and the results of the blood test, there are other tests that a doctor may want to perform to determine the source of your infection, including: urine test wound secretion test (if you have an open area that looks infected) mucus secretion test (to see what type of germ is behind the infection) brain and spinal fluid test In cases where the source of the infection is not clear from the tests above, a doctor might want to get an internal view of your body using one of the following: http://www.sarticles.net/article/chronological-presentation-of-the-main-scientific-studies

 X-rays, which allow a doctor to get a good view of the lungs computed tomography (CT) scans, which give the doctor a view of possible infections in the appendix, pancreas, or bowel areas ultrasound, which allows a doctor to view infections in the gallbladder or ovaries magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which gives doctors a view of any soft tissue infections, such as spinal abscesses Read more How Is Septic Shock Treated? The earlier sepsis is diagnosed and treated, the more likely you are to survive. Once sepsis is diagnosed, you will most likely be admitted to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for treatment. Doctors use a number of medications to treat septic shock, including: intravenous antibiotics to fight infection vaso pressure medications – drugs that constrict blood vessels and help increase blood pressure insulin for blood sugar stability corticosteroids to help with inflammation Large amounts of IV fluids will be administered to prevent dehydration and help increase blood pressure. A respirator for breathing may also be necessary. Surgery may be performed to remove a source of infection, such as draining a pus-filled abscess or removing infected tissue.http://www.ezine9.us/article/chronological-presentation-of-the-main-scientific-studies

Pulmonary Embolism

What Is a Pulmonary Embolism? A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that affects the lungs. Typically, a blood clot travels from another area in the body before becoming lodged in one of the arteries that supply blood to the lungs. A pulmonary embolism can damage part of the lung due to restricted blood flow, decrease oxygen levels in the blood, as well as damage other organs (NHLBI). Large or multiple blood clots can be fatal. The blockage can be life threatening, but immediate emergency treatment greatly increases your chances of avoiding permanent lung damage. A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that affects the lungs. Typically, a blood clot travels from another area in the body before becoming lodged in one of the arteries that supply blood to the lungs. A pulmonary embolism can damage part of the lung due to restricted blood flow, decrease oxygen levels in the blood, as well as damage other organs (NHLBI).  http://www.ez9articles.appspot.com/article/cannot-rule-out-the-various-problems-arising

Large or multiple blood clots can be fatal. The blockage can be life threatening, but immediate emergency treatment greatly increases your chances of avoiding permanent lung damage. Read more What Causes a Pulmonary Embolism? Blood clots can form for a variety of reasons. Pulmonary embolisms are most often caused by deep vein thrombosis, a condition in which blood clots form in veins deep in the body. The blood clots that most often cause pulmonary embolisms typically begin in the legs or arms. Factors that increase a person’s risks of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism include: cancer a close family member with a history of embolisms fractures of the leg or hip genetic blood clotting disorders (hypercoagulable states), including Factor V Leiden, prothrombin gene mutation, and elevated levels of homocysteine a history of heart attack or stroke major surgery obesity a sedentary lifestyle Symptoms of a Pulmonary Embolism Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism depend on the size of the clot and the location in your lung where it becomes lodged. The most common symptom of a pulmonary embolism is shortness of breath. This may be gradual or sudden. If you experience sudden shortness of breath, you should seek medical attention immediately. Other symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include: anxiety clammy or bluish skin coughing chest pain that may extend into your arm, jaw, neck, and shoulder fainting irregular heartbeat lightheadedness rapid breathing rapid heartbeat restlessness spitting up blood weak pulse If you notice one or more of these symptoms, especially shortness of breath, you should seek medical attention immediately. Read more How Is a Pulmonary Embolism Diagnosed? In some cases, a pulmonary embolism can be difficult to diagnose. This is especially true if you have an underlying lung or heart condition, such as lung disease or high blood pressure. When you first see your doctor about your symptoms, he or she will ask about your overall health and any pre-existing conditions you may have as part of a complete health profile. Your doctor will typically perform one or more of the following tests to discover the cause of your symptoms: chest X-ray: this standard, noninvasive test allows doctors to see your heart and lungs in detail, as well as any problems with the bones around your lungs. electrocardiography (ECG): this test measures your heart’s electrical activity. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): this scan uses radio waves and magnetic field to produce detailed images computed tomography (CT) scan: this scan gives your doctor the ability to see cross-sectional images of your lungs pulmonary angiography: this test involves making a small incision so your doctor can guide specialized tools through your veins. A special dye is injected so that the vessels of the lung can be seen. duplex venous ultrasound: this test uses radio waves to visualize the flow of blood and to check for blood clots in your legs. venography: this is a specialized X-ray of the veins of your legs.. Read more Treating a Pulmonary Embolism Your treatment for a pulmonary embolism depends on the size and location of the blood clot. If the problem is small and caught early, your doctor may opt for medication as the primary treatment. Some drugs can break up small clots. Drugs your doctor may use include: anticoagulants: also called blood thinners, the drugs heparin and warfarin prevent new clots from forming in your blood. These can save your life in an emergency situation. clot dissolvers (thrombolytics): these drugs speed up the breakdown of a clot. These are typically reserved for emergency situations because side effects may include dangerous bleeding problems. Surgery may be required to remove problematic clots, especially those that restrict the blood flow to the lungs or heart. Some surgical procedures your doctor may use in the case of a pulmonary embolism include (Mayo): vein filter: a small incision is made to use a thin wire to install a small filter in your inferior vena cava­­—the main vein that leads from your legs to the right side of your heart. http://www.myhotarticles.us/article/consumption-of-psychotropic-drugs

The filter prevents blood clots from traveling from your legs to your lungs. clot removal: large clots may need to be suctioned out of your artery using a thin tube called a catheter. It isn’t an entirely effective method because of the difficulty involved, so it’s not always a preferred method of treatment. open surgery: open surgery is used only in emergency situations when a person is in shock or medications aren’t working to break up the clot. Read more Follow-Up Care After you’ve been properly treated for a pulmonary embolism at the hospital, you’ll be advised to treat the underlying cause. This is typically deep vein thrombosis. You’ll most likely be put on anticoagulant medications, such as heparin and warfarin to prevent blood clots from returning. You may also be given compression stockings—similar to really tight socks—or another device to prevent clots from forming in your legs. Regularly exercising your legs will also be a key component of therapy after a pulmonary embolism. Your doctor will give you complete instructions on how to care for yourself to prevent future blood clots. Read more.
http://www.euarticles.net/article/consumption-of-psychotropic-drugs

Hypovolemic Shock

What Is Hypovolemic Shock? Hypovolemic shock, also called hemorrhagic shock, is a life-threatening condition that results when you lose more than 20 percent (one-fifth) of your body’s blood or fluid supply. This severe fluid loss makes it impossible for the heart to pump sufficient blood to your body. Hypovolemic shock can cause many of your organs to fail. The condition requires immediate emergency medical attention in order to survive. Hypovolemic shock, also called hemorrhagic shock, is a life-threatening condition that results when you lose more than 20 percent (one-fifth) of your body’s blood or fluid supply. This severe fluid loss makes it impossible for the heart to pump sufficient blood to your body. Hypovolemic shock can cause many of your organs to fail. The condition requires immediate emergency medical attention in order to survive. Learn How to Bike Safely and Avoid Injury Read more What Causes Hypovolemic Shock? Hypovolemic shock results from significant blood and/or fluid losses in your body. http://www.yooarticles.net/article/improvement-of-health-conditions

Blood loss of this magnitude can occur because of: bleeding from cuts or wounds bleeding from blunt traumatic injuries due to accidents or seizure activity internal bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract or ruptured ectopic pregnancy In addition to actual blood loss, the loss of body fluids can cause a decrease in blood volume. blood in your body to drop. This can occur in cases of: excessive diarrhea severe burns protracted and excessive vomiting excessive sweating When heavy bleeding occurs, there is not enough blood flow to the organs in your body. Blood carries oxygen and other essential substances to your organs and tissues. When these substances are lost more quickly than they can be replaced, organs in the body begin to shut down. As your heart shuts down and fails to circulate an adequate amount of blood through your body, symptoms of shock occur. Blood pressure plummets and there is a massive drop in body temperature, which can be life threatening. According to the Mayo Clinic, hemorrhagic shock is the leading cause of death in people with traumatic injuries. Untreated hypovolemic shock will lead to death. A lack of blood and fluid in your body can lead to the following complications: damage to organs such as your kidney or brain gangrene of the arms or legs heart attack The effects of hypovolemic shock depend on the amount and speed at which you are losing blood and/or fluids. The extent of your injuries can also determine your chances for survival. If you have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or heart, lung, or kidney disease, these conditions can increase the likelihood you will experience more complications from hypovolemic shock. Read more How Is the Condition Diagnosed? http://www.sarticles.net/article/cannot-rule-out-the-various-problems-arising

There are often no advance warnings of shock. Instead, symptoms tend to arise only when you are already in the throes of the condition. A physical examination can reveal signs of shock, such as low blood pressure and rapid heartbeat. The person may also be less responsive when asked questions by the emergency room doctor. While heavy bleeding is immediately recognizable, internal bleeding sometimes isn’t found until someone shows signs of hemorrhagic shock. In addition to physical symptoms, your physician may use a variety of testing methods to confirm you are experiencing hypovolemic shock. These include: blood testing to check for electrolyte imbalances and kidney function CT scan or an ultrasound to visualize body organs echocardiogram to measure heart rhythm endoscopy to examine the esophagus and other gastrointestinal organs right heart catheterization to check how blood is circulating urinary catheterization to measure the amount of urine in the bladder. http://www.ezine9.us/article/cannot-rule-out-the-various-problems-arising

Dissection of the Aorta

The aorta is a large artery that carries blood out of your heart. If you experience a dissection of the aorta, it means that blood has entered the wall of the artery, between the inner and middle layers. This can happen if the inner layer of your aorta tears, allowing blood to pass from the main body of the artery into the wall. Sometimes, blood hemorrhages from the tiny vessels that supply the outside wall of your aorta. This can also lead to blood accumulating inside the layers of the aortic wall. The danger is that the dissection could channel blood out of your aorta, causing a fatal rupture of the artery. Serious complications can arise if the dissection channels blood into the space around your heart or lungs. If you have severe chest pain or other symptoms of an aortic dissection, call 911 immediately. http://www.ez9articles.appspot.com/article/support-and-care-of-physical-health

The aorta is a large artery that carries blood out of your heart. If you experience a dissection of the aorta, it means that blood has entered the wall of the artery, between the inner and middle layers. This can happen if the inner layer of your aorta tears, allowing blood to pass from the main body of the artery into the wall. Sometimes, blood hemorrhages from the tiny vessels that supply the outside wall of your aorta. This can also lead to blood accumulating inside the layers of the aortic wall. The danger is that the dissection could channel blood out of your aorta, causing a fatal rupture of the artery. Serious complications can arise if the dissection channels blood into the space around your heart or lungs. If you have severe chest pain or other symptoms of an aortic dissection, call 911 immediately. Read more Types of Dissections of the Aorta Aortic dissections are classified as Type A or Type B. The aorta travels in an upward direction when it first leaves your heart. This is called the ascending aorta. It then arches downward, passing from your chest into your abdomen. This is known as the descending aorta. Type A A dissection can occur in the ascending or descending part of your aorta, but most are found in the ascending section, where they are classified as Type A. Type B Dissections in the descending aorta are classified as Type B. They tend to be less life-threatening than Type A and require less urgent treatment. Your doctor will examine you and use a stethoscope to listen for abnormal noises coming from your aorta. When the doctor takes your blood pressure, the reading may be different in one arm than in the other. A test called an ECG (electrocardiogram) may be needed to see if you are having a heart attack. http://www.myhotarticles.us/article/improvement-of-health-conditions

Sometimes an aortic dissection can be mistaken for a heart attack, and sometimes you can have both conditions at the same time. You may also need to have imaging scans done. These can include a chest X-ray, a CT (computed tomography) scan, and an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. You might also have an echocardiogram. This involves passing a device that emits sound waves down your throat, until it is close to the area of your heart. The sound waves are used to create an image of your heart and aorta. Read more Treating Dissections of the Aorta Type B dissection can often be treated with medication, while Type A normally requires surgery. Medications You will receive drugs to relieve your pain (usually morphine), and medication to lower your blood pressure (usually beta-blockers). Surgeries The torn section of your aorta is removed and replaced with a synthetic graft. If one of your heart valves has been damaged, this will also be replaced. You may also need surgery if your Type B dissection continues to worsen even when your blood pressure is under control.http://www.euarticles.net/article/improvement-of-health-conditions

Hypotension

What Is Hypotension? Hypotension is low blood pressure. Your blood pushes against your arteries with each heartbeat. The pushing of the blood against the artery walls is called blood pressure. Low blood pressure is good in most cases. Sometimes, however, low blood pressure can make you feel tired or dizzy. Hypotension can be a sign of an underlying condition that should be treated. Blood pressure is measured both when your heart beats and in the periods of rest in between. The measurement of your blood pumping through your arteries is called systolic pressure. The measurement for the periods of rest is called diastolic pressure. Blood pressure is written with the systolic number above the diastolic number. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) defines hypotension as being 90/60 or loweWhat Causes Hypotension? Everyone’s blood pressure drops at one time or another, often without adverse reaction. https://secure.web.emory.edu/forums/read.php?9,2094,2094#msg-2094

Certain conditions can cause prolonged period of hypotension that can become dangerous if left untreated. These include: pregnancy (due to an increase in demand for blood from both mother and the growing fetus) large amounts of blood loss through injury impaired circulation caused by heart attacks or faulty heart valves weakness and a state of shock that sometimes accompany dehydration anaphylactic shock, a severe form of allergic reaction infections of the bloodstream endocrine disorders such as diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, and thyroid disease Medications might also cause a drop in blood pressure. Beta-blockers and nitroglycerin, used to treat heart disease, are common culprits. Diuretics, tricyclic antidepressants, and erectile dysfunction drugs can also cause hypotension. Some people have low blood pressure for unknown reasons. This form of hypotension, called chronic asymptomatic hypotension, usually does not cause harm. People with hypotension may experience unpleasant symptoms when their blood pressure drops below 90/60. Symptoms of hypotension can include: fatigue lightheadedness dizziness nausea clammy skin depression loss of consciousness blurry vision Symptoms can range in severity. Some people may be slightly uncomfortable, while others may feel quite ill. Notify your doctor if you are concerned about your symptoms and blood pressure levels. http://www.sarticles.net/article/support-and-care-of-physical-health

 Read more Treatment for Hypotension Your doctor will treat the underlying condition that causes your hypotension. This may include medications for heart disease, diabetes, or infection. Drink plenty of water to avoid hypotension due to dehydration. Treat orthostatic hypotension with slow, gradual movements. Instead of standing up quickly, work your way into a sitting or standing position using small movements. You can also avoid orthostatic hypotension by not crossing your legs when you sit. Hydration can also help treat and prevent the symptoms of neurally mediated hypotension. If you suffer from low blood pressure when standing for long periods, be sure to take a break to sit down. Reduce your stress levels to avoid emotional trauma. Shock-induced hypotension is the most serious form of the condition. Severe hypotension must be treated immediately. Emergency personnel will give you fluids and possibly blood products to increase your blood pressure and stabilize your vital signs. http://www.ezine9.us/article/support-and-care-of-physical-health