An ANA (antinuclear antibody) test detects the presence of antinuclear antibodies in the blood. Their presence usually indicates that a person has an autoimmune disorder. What are Antinuclear Antibodies? Antibodies are the proteins made by the immune system of the body to fight against bacteria, viruses, or other microbes. These antibodies act against the antigens released […]
Basics
Blood Brain Barrier – Structure and Function
The blood brain barrier is a term used for the unique structure and properties of the capillary network of the central nervous system which makes the interface which allows entry of selective substances to the brain whereas holds or blocks others. Thus it is a kind of check that permits some of the circulating things […]
Liver Anatomy, Structure and Function
The liver is the largest gland and second largest organ after the skin. It is a peritoneal organ located under the diaphragm in the upper quadrant of the abdomen and extends to the left upper abdomen. The liver is involved in many functions including synthesis of bile, glycogen storage, and clotting factor production. Hepar is […]
Neurosteroids – Synthesis, Functions and Medical Uses
Neurosteroids or neuroactive steroids are steroids synthesized within the brain and modulate neuronal excitability. The term was coined by the French physiologist Etienne Baulieu. Neurosteroids have a wide range of potential clinical applications from sedation to treatment of epilepsy and traumatic brain injury. What are the Different Types of Neurosteroids? Inhibitory Cause inhibitory actions on […]
Anatomy of the Breast
The breasts are paired structures that lie in front of the anterior thoracic wall over the pectoralis major muscle. In this article, we shall discuss the anatomy of the breast, its nerve supply, blood supply, lymphatic drainage along with various aspects of clinical significance. The breasts contain the mammary glands which are an accessory gland […]
Grey Turner Sign, Cullen Sign and Their Significance
Grey Turner sign is ecchymosis or discoloration of the flanks occurring because of abdominal pathology. Classically it is associated with severe acute necrotizing pancreatitis often in association with Cullen’s sign (periumbilical ecchymosis) but it is not specific to that. The color of discoloration may be green, yellow, or purple depending on the degree of red […]
Cytogenetics – Scope, Techniques and Uses
Cytogenetics is a branch of genetics concerned with the study of chromosomal structure, location, and function of the cells. The study includes chromosome number, appearance or karyotyping, location of genes on chromosomes and chromosomal behavior in cell processes such as cell division. There are various techniques used to study chromosomes which we will discuss later. […]
Thoracic Duct Anatomy and Functions
The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the human body that is responsible for the passage of around 75% of the lymph from the whole of the body except the right upper limb, right breast, right lung and right side of the head and neck. It drains into the venous angle or Pirgoff’s […]
Vagus Nerve Anatomy, Course and Function
Vagus nerve is a cranial nerve [arises from brain] that contains both motor and sensory fibers. It is the longest cranial nerve and has the widest distribution from neck to thorax to the abdomen where its somatic and visceral afferent fibers are distributed. There are 12 cranial nerves on each side of the skull and […]
Spleen Anatomy, Function and Significance
The spleen is the largest organ of your lymphatic system which consists of network of trabeculae, blood vessels and lymphoid tissue. It resides in the upper left of the abdomen and is protected by the rib cage. The region is also known as left hypochondriac region. It provides a milieu where lymphocytes proliferate and old damaged red […]