Your Health Matters: Read Our Health Education Blog

Erythromelalgia is a rare, acquired or (very rarely) inherited clinical syndrome of intermittently red, hot, painful extremities. The syndrome usually affects the lower extremities (predominantly the feet) but may also involve the upper extremities (predominantly hands) and rarely concomitantly involves the face. Patients instinctively try to relieve symptoms by cooling the involved areas with fans, cold water, or ice. There is no cure for erythromelalgia; therefore, treatment is focused on improving symptoms. Many patients can be successfully managed with behavioral interventions, topical medications, and aspirin. Other interventions may be beneficial when these measures are insufficient. The epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of erythromelalgia will be reviewed here. EPIDEMIOLOGY Epidemiologic data on erythromelalgia is limited, but erythromelalgia appears to be rare. Population-based studies from the United States, Sweden, and Norway have found incidence ...

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. In the United States, it is the fifth most common cancer in men and women; its incidence increases with age. As survival rates for people with melanoma depend on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis, early diagnosis is crucial to improve patient outcome and save lives. Although most melanomas are detected by patients themselves, clinician detection is associated with thinner, more curable tumors. Most patients with thin, invasive melanoma (Breslow thickness ≤1 mm) can expect prolonged disease-free survival and likely cure following treatment. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. It accounts for a significant proportion of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. This section provides an introduction to melanoma, its classification, and the global burden of the disease. The age-standardized annual incidence of melanoma worldwide is estim...

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various aspects of human health. It is unique because it can be synthesized by the body through exposure to sunlight, as well as obtained from certain foods and supplements. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the secrets of vitamin D, including its sources, functions, benefits, deficiency risks, and optimal levels. Sources of Vitamin D: Sunlight: When the skin is exposed to sunlight, it synthesizes vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) from cholesterol. Diet: Some food sources naturally contain vitamin D, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), cod liver oil, and egg yolks. Additionally, fortified foods like milk, orange juice, and cereals often contain added vitamin D. Forms of Vitamin D: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol): Synthesized in the skin and also found in animal-based food sources. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol): Derived from plant-based sources or fungal sources like mushrooms. Functions and Benefits of Vit...

Sarcopenia (Muscle Atrophy) is a medical condition characterized by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function with aging. It is a common condition among older adults and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. In this article, we will discuss sarcopenia, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Causes of Sarcopenia: The exact cause of sarcopenia is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be a multifactorial condition with several contributing factors, including: Age-related changes in hormones, particularly testosterone, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle, which leads to muscle wasting. Chronic inflammation, which can cause damage to muscle tissue and impair muscle regeneration. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein intake. Genetics and family history. Symptoms of Sarcopenia: The symptoms of sarcopenia can be subtle and may not be noticeable u...

Marburg virus is a highly virulent, hemorrhagic fever-causing virus belonging to the Filoviridae family, which also includes the Ebola virus. Marburg virus was first identified in 1967, when outbreaks occurred simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, and in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, among laboratory workers who had come into contact with infected African green monkeys imported from Uganda. Transmission and Pathogenesis: The natural reservoir of Marburg virus is believed to be fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, which are found in parts of Africa. Human infections occur through direct or indirect contact with infected bats, primates, or other infected humans. Once the virus enters the body, it replicates in the mononuclear phagocytic system, including macrophages and dendritic cells. The virus then spreads throughout the body via the bloodstream, causing damage to multiple organs, including the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes. Clinical Manifestations: Marburg virus infect...