What is a 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) test? This test measures the amount of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) in the blood. 17-OHP is a hormone made by the adrenal glands, two glands located on top of the kidneys. The adrenal glands make several hormones, including cortisol. Cortisol is important for maintaining blood pressure, blood sugar, and some functions of the immune […]
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Achondroplasia What is Achondroplasia? It is a disorder of bone growth that causes the most common type of dwarfism. What are the causes of Achondroplasia? It is one of a group of disorders called chondrodystrophies, or osteochondrodysplasias. It may be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, which means that if a child gets the defective
Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tendon that connects the back of your leg to your heel becomes swollen and painful near the bottom of the foot. This tendon is called the Achilles tendon. It allows you to push your foot down. You use your Achilles tendon when walking, running, and jumping. What are the causes
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ACL reconstruction is surgery to reconstruct the ligament in the center of your knee. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) connects your shin bone (tibia) to your thigh bone (femur). A tear of this ligament can cause your knee to give way during physical activity, most often during side-step or crossover movements. Description Most people have general
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An acoustic neuroma is a slow-growing tumour of the nerve that connects the ear to the brain. This nerve is called the vestibular cochlear nerve. It is behind the ear, right under the brain. An acoustic neuroma is benign. This means that it does not spread to other parts of the body. However, it can
The ACTH stimulation test measures how well the adrenal glands respond to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol. How the Test is Performed The test is done the following way: Your blood is drawn. You then receive a shot (injection)
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The ACTH test measures the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the blood. ACTH is a hormone released from the pituitary gland in the brain. How the Test is Performed A blood sample is needed. How to Prepare for the Test Your doctor will likely ask you to have the test done early in the morning.
What is an Abscess? An abscess is a collection of pus in any part of the body. In most cases, the area around an abscess is swollen and inflamed. What are the causes of an abscess? Abscesses occur when an area of tissue becomes infected and the body’s immune system tries to fight it. White
What is a carbon dioxide (CO2) blood test? Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an odourless, colourless gas. It is a waste product made by your body. Your blood carries carbon dioxide to your lungs. You breathe out carbon dioxide and breathe in oxygen all day, every day, without thinking about it. A CO2 blood test measures
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What is a nasal swab? A nasal swab, is a test that checks for viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections. There are many types of respiratory infections. A nasal swab test can help your provider diagnose the type of infection you have and which treatment would be best for you. The test may be done by taking a