Pneumonitis is a general term that refers to swelling and irritation, also called inflammation, of lung tissue. It is a condition that can occur in anyone, but it is more common in people who are exposed to airborne irritants or have certain medical conditions. While lung infections such as pneumonia can cause inflammation of lung tissue, pneumonitis is a separate condition that is not caused by an infection.
Pneumothorax is a condition in which air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. This can be a partial or complete collapse of the lung. The air can enter the space through various means, including blunt or penetrating chest injuries, certain medical procedures, or underlying lung diseases.
POEMS syndrome is a rare blood disorder that affects the nerves and other parts of the body. It is a type of plasma cell disorder that is characterized by the production of abnormal amounts of a protein in the bone marrow. This protein can cause damage to various parts of the body, including the nerves, skin, and organs.
Poison ivy rash is a common and highly allergic reaction to an oily resin called urushiol (u-ROO-she-ol). This oil is found in the leaves, stems, and roots of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. The rash can cause intense itching, redness, and swelling, and can last for weeks or even months.
Polio is a highly infectious and debilitating viral disease that affects the nervous system. It is also known as poliomyelitis. The virus mainly targets the nerves in the spinal cord or brain stem, which can lead to severe symptoms such as paralysis, breathing difficulties, and even death. In its most severe form, polio can cause a person to be unable to move certain limbs or even experience respiratory failure.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects millions of women worldwide. It is characterized by irregular menstrual periods, cysts on the ovaries, and high levels of male hormones (androgens). PCOS is often diagnosed in women during their reproductive years, and it can cause significant emotional distress and impact daily life.
Polycythemia vera is a rare type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells. It is characterized by the excessive production of red blood cells, which can lead to thickened blood and potentially life-threatening complications. In this article, we will delve into the causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of polycythemia vera.
Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is a common skin condition that occurs when the skin reacts to sunlight, particularly in the spring and early summer when the sun's rays are strongest. PMLE is characterized by a rash that can appear on various parts of the body, such as the front of the neck and chest. The rash can take many forms, including tiny bumps, raised areas, or blisters.
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes widespread pain and stiffness in the muscles, particularly in the shoulders and hips. It is a common condition that affects older adults, with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 65. PMR is often accompanied by giant cell arteritis, a condition that causes inflammation of the blood vessels, which can lead to headaches, vision difficulties, jaw pain, and scalp tenderness.
Polymyositis (PM) is an uncommon inflammatory disease that causes muscle weakness affecting both sides of the body. It is a chronic condition that can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to perform everyday activities such as climbing stairs, rising from a seated position, lifting objects, or reaching overhead. While there is no cure for PM, treatment can improve muscle strength and function, allowing individuals to regain their independence.
A popliteal artery aneurysm is a rare and serious condition that occurs when the popliteal artery, located behind the knee, becomes weak and balloons out. This ballooning can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and a pulsing feeling in the affected area. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, risk factors, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of popliteal artery aneurysm.
Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare condition that affects the popliteal artery, which is the main artery behind the knee. In this condition, the calf muscle is in the wrong position or is larger than usual, causing it to press on the artery and become trapped. This compression can reduce blood flow to the lower leg and foot, leading to a range of symptoms and complications.
Porphyria is a group of rare genetic disorders that result from a buildup of natural chemicals called porphyrins in the body. Porphyrins are essential for the production of heme, a critical component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying oxygen to the body's organs and tissues. The disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity, although they are more common in certain populations.
Posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) is a rare and complex brain disorder that affects the visual cortex of the brain. It is characterized by the gradual degeneration of brain cells, leading to impaired vision, cognitive decline, and other neurological symptoms. PCA is a type of frontotemporal dementia, which is a group of disorders that affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.