Category: S

Battery or mains electrically driven portable devices into which a syringe can be loaded to give a continuous infusion to patients who need regular treatment to control severe pain, or to newborns where the volume to be given is critical and difficult to control with other devices. A compact apparatus that combines a medication-filled syringe…

Adhesions between the iris and adjacent structures (e.g. cornea, lens). They usually arise as a result of inflammation of the iris.  

These drugs stimulate the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. There are three group: inotropic and vasoconstrictor sympathomimetics, and those used for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The properties of these drugs vary according to whether they act on alpha or beta adrenergic receptons. Substances that activate the sympathetic nervous system by imitating the impacts of natural compounds…

Sulphonamide derivatives which lower the blood sugar when they are given by mouth, by enhancing the production of insulin. They are effective in treating diabetes mellitus only when some residual pancreatic beta-cell function is present. All may lead to hypoglycaemia if given in overdose and this is particularly common when long acting sulphonylureas are given…

Traditionally this was called ‘cot death’ and implies that a baby has been found dead for no obvious reason, usually between the ages of 1 month and 1 year. Amongst them will be some babies where a definite cause is found at post-mortem examination, for example an overwhelming infection, an undiagnosed. metabolic disorder or congenital…

A degenerative condition of the spinal cord which most commonly occurs as a complication of pernicious anaemia. The motor and sensory nerves in the cord are damaged, causing spasticity of the limbs and an unsteady gait. Treatment is with vitamin B12. Degeneration of the posterior and lateral columns of the spinal column. Clinically, paresthesia, sensory…

A condition in which there is constant desire to pass water, accompanied by a straining sensation, though only a few drops can be voided. It is a symptom of inflammation in the urinary tract.  

A synthetic oestrogen. Its physiological actions are closely similar to those of the natural ovarian hormone, and it has the great merit of being active when taken by mouth. The drug may help patients suffering from cancer of the prostate gland, inducing in some cases regression of the primary tumour and of secondary deposits in…

The procedure using computer-controlled X-ray images whereby precise localization in space is achieved. It is applied to that branch of surgery known as stereotactic neurosurgery, in which the surgeon is able to localize precisely those areas of the brain on which he or she wishes to operate.  

The form of preumoconiosis caused by the inhalation of stannous (tin) oxide, which occurs in tin-ore mining. The deposition of tin oxide dust in the upper or lower respiratory tract. Patients may complain of irritation of the eyes, nasal passages, and other mucous membranes. Chest xray examination often reveals dust deposits in the lungs, but…