Gaucher (go-SHAY) disease is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the accumulation of certain fatty substances in organs such as the spleen and liver, leading to their enlargement and impaired function. This condition can also affect bone tissue, increasing the risk of fractures and interfering with blood clotting due to bone marrow involvement. The underlying cause is a deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase, which normally breaks down these fatty substances.
Gender dysphoria refers to the distress or discomfort that individuals may experience when their gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. This condition is prevalent among transgender and gender-diverse people, although not all individuals within these groups experience it.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety about everyday situations, often disproportionate to the actual threat. While it's normal to feel anxious at times, those with GAD experience persistent anxiety that interferes with daily life. It can develop in childhood or adulthood and often coexists with other anxiety or mood disorders.
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. While some individuals may not experience symptoms or have very mild ones, they can still transmit the virus to others.
Genital warts are among the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a group of viruses that affect the moist tissues of the genital area. HPV is extremely common, with nearly all sexually active individuals becoming infected with at least one type at some point in their lives.
Geographic tongue, also known as benign migratory glossitis, is a harmless inflammatory condition that affects the surface of the tongue. It is characterized by irregular patches on the tongue that are missing the tiny, pinkish-white bumps called papillae. These patches appear smooth, red, and often have slightly raised borders, resembling a map of sorts on the tongue. The condition can shift locations on the tongue over time, hence the name "geographic tongue."
Germ cell tumors originate from reproductive cells and can be cancerous or non-cancerous. They most commonly occur in the testicles or ovaries but can manifest in other areas like the abdomen, brain, and chest.
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy. Similar to other forms of diabetes, it impacts how the body processes sugar (glucose), leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This condition requires careful management to safeguard both maternal and fetal health.
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the arteries in the head, particularly those in the temples. This condition leads to swelling of the arteries' lining, which can obstruct blood flow and cause various symptoms. GCA is considered a medical emergency due to its potential to cause vision loss if not promptly treated with corticosteroid medications.
Giardia infection, also known as giardiasis, is an intestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite called Giardia lamblia. It is prevalent worldwide, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and unsafe water sources. This infection typically manifests with symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and watery diarrhea.
Gilbert syndrome, pronounced as "zheel-BAYR," is a common, benign liver disorder characterized by impaired bilirubin processing. Bilirubin results from the breakdown of red blood cells and is typically metabolized in the liver. However, individuals with Gilbert syndrome experience a mild deficiency in the enzyme responsible for this process, leading to elevated levels of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood.
Gingivitis is a prevalent and mild form of gum disease characterized by inflammation, redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gingiva, the part of the gum around the base of the teeth. It is essential to address gingivitis promptly as it can progress to a more severe condition known as periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.
Glaucoma encompasses a group of eye conditions that gradually damage the optic nerve, crucial for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. The primary cause is often attributed to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), but it can also occur with normal eye pressure.
Glioblastoma, a highly aggressive form of brain cancer, originates from astrocytes, which are cells supporting nerve cells in the brain or spinal cord. It is characterized by rapid growth and infiltration into healthy brain tissue, making treatment challenging and prognosis generally poor.
