Diseases & Conditions

Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum). It causes chest pain, which can be sharp, aching, or pressure-like. The pain often mimics heart attack symptoms, leading to confusion.

Cough headaches are an unusual type of head pain triggered by coughing or other forms of straining. These may include sneezing, laughing, crying, singing, bending over, or even having a bowel movement. There are two main types of cough headaches:

Craniopharyngioma is a rare, noncancerous brain tumor that originates near the pituitary gland. It arises from remnants of Rathke’s pouch, an embryonic structure involved in pituitary development. Although benign, craniopharyngiomas can cause significant morbidity due to their location near critical brain structures.

CJD is characterized by changes in mental abilities, rapid deterioration, and ultimately death. Although it shares some symptoms with Alzheimer’s disease, CJD progresses much faster. Most cases of CJD are sporadic, meaning they occur without any identifiable risk factors. However, a small percentage of cases are hereditary due to mutations in the prion protein gene.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It falls under the category of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Named after Dr. Burrill B. Crohn, who first described it in 1932, this condition can cause significant discomfort and impact daily life. The inflammation can occur anywhere in the digestive tract, but it most commonly affects the small intestine.

Croup, medically known as laryngotracheobronchitis, is a contagious respiratory infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It leads to inflammation and narrowing of the upper airway, causing characteristic symptoms such as a barking cough and difficulty breathing. While most cases are mild, severe episodes can be life-threatening.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating chronic pain condition that primarily affects an arm or a leg. It is characterized by severe pain, swelling, changes in skin temperature, and abnormal hair and nail growth.

Cryoglobulinemia is a rare condition characterized by the presence of cryoglobulins in the serum. These cryoglobulins are immunoglobulins that precipitate at temperatures below normal body temperature (37°C) and redissolve upon rewarming. The clinical presentation and underlying disease triggering cryoglobulin formation can vary significantly.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a vital component of the central nervous system (CNS). It surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing essential functions for their protection, nourishment, and waste removal. Let’s explore CSF in detail.

Anatomy and Production

1. Secretion:

   • The choroid plexus, located within the ventricles of the brain, actively produces CSF. Choroid cells transport ions and other substances from the blood into the ventricles.
   • The blood-brain barrier (BBB) ensures that harmful substances do not enter the brain tissue.

2. Circulation:

   • CSF flows through specific pathways:
     • From the lateral ventricles, it passes through the interventricular foramen (of Monro) into the third ventricle.
     • Through the cerebral aqueduct (of Sylvius), it reaches the fourth ventricle.
     • Some CSF enters the central canal of the spinal cord, while most exits through the apertures of the fourth ventricle.
   • Approximately 600–700 ml of CSF is produced daily, replacing the entire volume around 4 times per day.

3. Absorption:

   • Arachnoid granulations (villi) protrude into venous sinuses, allowing CSF reabsorption into the bloodstream.

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare type of cancer that originates in white blood cells known as T cells (T lymphocytes). These T cells typically play a crucial role in our immune system’s defense against infections and diseases.

Cushing’s syndrome occurs when the body is exposed to excessive levels of cortisol for an extended period. Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and stress. However, when cortisol levels become chronically elevated, it leads to a range of symptoms and complications.

Cutaneous B-cell lymphoma (CBCL) is a rare type of cancer that originates in the white blood cells, specifically B cells or B lymphocytes. Unlike other lymphomas that primarily affect lymph nodes, CBCL specifically targets the skin. It manifests as various skin lesions, which can be mistaken for rashes or bumps. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of CBCL.

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare type of cancer that originates in white blood cells called T cells (T lymphocytes). These abnormal T cells infiltrate the skin, leading to various skin-related symptoms. Let’s delve into the specifics.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome is a chronic functional disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of severe vomiting without an apparent cause. These episodes can last from a single day to several weeks and alternate with symptom-free periods. Let’s delve into the details:

Cyclothymia, also known as cyclothymic disorder, is a relatively rare mood disorder that affects emotional stability. Unlike bipolar I or II disorder, where mood swings are more extreme, cyclothymia presents with milder fluctuations. Individuals with cyclothymia experience periods of elevated mood (hypomania) and mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Let’s delve deeper into the various aspects of this condition.