Clinical Definition Encephalitis is a severe irritation and inflammation of the brain, usually due to infection. Most often, the infection is viral, such as the herpes simplex virus. Other causes include autoimmune disease, an allergic reaction to vaccines, bacteria and parasites, as well as the after effects of cancer. In Our Own Words Encephalitis, a…
Endocarditis
Clinical Definition Endocarditis is an inflammation of the heart valves or the endocardium, most commonly caused by a bacterial infection. It occurs when organisms (usually bacteria, but rarely fungi) enter the bloodstream and then reach the endocardium or the valves. Without proper treatment, endocarditis can be fatal. In Our Own Words Endocarditis occurs when the…
Enlarged Prostate
Clinical Definition A common urinary tract disorder for men over age 60, an enlarged prostate gland presses against the urethra (tubal transport) and can block the flow of urine from the bladder. In Our Own Words The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland at the base of the male bladder that produces a fluid that forms…