Health Library

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a medical term used to describe a group of conditions caused by a sudden reduction or blockage of blood flow to the heart. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. ACS includes unstable angina...

Addison’s disease is a rare, long-term condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough essential hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones are vital for maintaining blood pressure, metabolism and the body’s...

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects white blood cells. It develops quickly and requires urgent treatment, but outcomes—especially in children—have improved significantly. Key...

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It develops when the body produces large numbers of abnormal white blood cells, which interfere with the production of healthy blood cells. Key facts: Develops...

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often called ALS, is a progressive neurological condition that affects the nerve cells that control voluntary movement. These nerve cells are called motor neurones, so ALS is also commonly known as motor neurone...

Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in glandular cells. These cells are found in the lining of many organs and produce fluids such as mucus, digestive juices and other secretions. Key facts: Adenocarcinoma can develop in several parts...

An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a major cosmetic procedure used to improve the shape and contour of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat. In many cases, it also includes tightening the tissues and muscles of the...

Skin tags, also called acrochordons, are small, soft, benign skin growths that commonly develop in areas where the skin folds or rubs together, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids. Key facts: Harmless, non-cancerous growths made of skin...

Asperger’s syndrome is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that sits within autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and affects how a person communicates, socialises, and processes information. It is not an illness, and with the right support, many...

Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in the urinary tract, most commonly kidney stones. A thin telescope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter or kidney, allowing the surgeon to...