Clinical Definition Tuberculosis, or TB, is caused by a bacterium, Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria are spread from infected persons through the air, typically tainting the lungs. However, the bacteria can also affect the kidneys, spine and brain. Skin tests and blood tests are used to detect TB infection, while medications are used to treat the debilitating disease.…
Tuberous Sclerosis
Clinical Definition Tuberous sclerosis is a group of two genetic disorders with a spectrum of clinical expressions, including dermatological, neurological, renal and cardiac, and commonly accompanied by epilepsy, autism, developmental delay and skin birthmarks. Mutations in the genes TSC1 or TSC2 are responsible for most cases. Symptoms include patchy red skin or white skin, seizures,…
Tumor
Clinical Definition A tumor is any kind of swelling or enlargement of tissues involving abnormal growth anywhere in the body. A tumor can be cancerous or noncancerous (benign). However, benign tumors can still cause problems. In Our Own Words A tumor is an abnormal growth. Normally, cells in your body grow, divide and then die.…