Chylous effusion refers to the accumulation of chyle, a milky fluid composed of lymph and emulsified fats, within a body cavity. Chyle is normally formed in the small intestine during the digestion of dietary fats and is rich in lymphocytes, fats, and proteins. Chylous effusion occurs when there is a disruption in the normal drainage of lymph, causing chyle to accumulate in spaces such as the pleural cavity (pleural chylous effusion) or the peritoneal cavity (peritoneal chylous effusion).
T lymphocytes, also known as T cells, are a type of white blood cell (WBC) that plays a significant role in protecting the body against viral infections and cancer. T cells are a part of the immune system and are responsible for recognizing and responding to specific antigens, which are molecules present on the surface of pathogens like viruses and abnormal cells like cancer cells.
Azotemia refers to a medical condition characterized by elevated levels of nitrogen-containing compounds, such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine, in the bloodstream. BUN and creatinine are waste products produced by the breakdown of proteins and are normally excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels of BUN and creatinine in the blood can indicate impaired kidney function or other underlying health issues.
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell (WBC) that play a significant role in the immune system's response to multicellular parasites and certain types of infections, particularly those involving allergic reactions and inflammation. Eosinophils are characterized by their granules, which contain various proteins and enzymes.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the Gram-negative bacteria responsible for causing the sexually transmitted infection known as gonorrhea. These bacteria are often referred to as "coffee bean-shaped diplococci" due to their characteristic appearance under the microscope.
Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Neisseria gonorrhoeae primarily infects the mucous membranes of the genital tract, rectum, and throat.
The description you provided is characteristic of acute bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that causes inflammation of the meninges, which are the protective layers of tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The infection leads to the accumulation of pus and inflammatory fluids in the subarachnoid space, which is the space between the arachnoid and pia mater layers of the meninges.
Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell (WBC) and the most prevalent granulocyte in the bloodstream. They play a vital role in the immune system as one of the first responders to infections and are considered a crucial component of the body's defense against pathogens.
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when there's an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints and tissues, leading to sudden and severe pain, inflammation, and discomfort. Uric acid is a natural waste product that is usually filtered out by the kidneys and excreted in urine. However, in some cases, either the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys cannot eliminate it effectively, leading to its deposition in joints and soft tissues.
The INR is a standardized measurement used to monitor and assess the effectiveness of anticoagulation therapy, especially with medications like warfarin. It quantifies the time it takes for blood to clot by comparing the patient's prothrombin time (PT) to a reference value. The INR is essential for maintaining appropriate anticoagulation levels while minimizing the risk of bleeding.
Petechiae are small, flat, red or purple spots that appear on the skin due to bleeding under the surface. They result from the leakage of blood from tiny blood vessels called capillaries into the skin or mucous membranes. Petechiae are often small, pinpoint-sized spots and can occur individually or in clusters.
An effusion refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid within a body cavity. This can occur in various parts of the body, such as the pleural cavity (around the lungs), pericardial cavity (around the heart), or joint spaces. Effusions can result from various underlying causes, including inflammation, infection, injury, or other medical conditions.
Erythrocytes, which are more commonly known as red blood cells (RBCs). These specialized blood cells play a crucial role in the transportation of oxygen (O2) from the lungs to the body's tissues and organs and the removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the tissues back to the lungs for exhalation.
Ammonium urate crystals indeed form in urine with an alkaline pH. These crystals are a type of crystal that can be found in the urine and are associated with certain medical conditions, particularly in infants and young children. They are typically more common in individuals with alkaline urine pH levels.
Nephrotic syndrome is a medical condition characterized by the excretion of too much protein through the urine due to kidney dysfunction. It is a collection of symptoms that result from damage to the filtering units (glomeruli) of the kidneys, leading to increased permeability of blood vessels in the glomeruli and subsequent protein leakage into the urine.
