The thyroid gland, or simply thyroid, is an organ located in the base of our neck and produces hormones called thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These regulate metabolism, digestion, heart and muscle function, brain development, and is also in charge of the maintenance of our bones. Continue reading
Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma – Definition, Symptoms, and Treatment
Defining Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma or ACC/AdCC is a very rare form of malignant neoplasm that occurs generally within glandular tissue/secretory glands. It may occur in the breasts, uterus, and more commonly in the upper aerodigestive tract. Most cases of ACC occur within the salivary glands. This is why ACC is often regarded as a common head and neck cancer.
Most cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma are benign although in the rare case that they become malignant there is a 5-10% chance of the cancer cells affecting nearby lymph nodes. In very rare cases bone metastasis and lung metastasis occurs. Continue reading
What is Thyroid Cancer ?
One of the most common cancers is thyroid cancer. In 2014 there were just over 62,900 cases of thyroid cancer in the United States. Fortunately, the chances of complications are low while five year survival rates are high – clocked in at 95%.
Development of Spinal Metastasis
This means only 1 of 20 ever develop serious complications. As of 2014, over 1,800 died from serious complications. One of the most common issues with thyroid cancer is when it spreads to the nearest part of the body – the spine. This is referred to as spinal metastasis. Continue reading
New Studies Indicate H. Pylori Isn’t a Risk Factor for Head and Neck Cancer
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has long been considered one of the main risk factors for head and neck cancer. Since the mid-1980s the germ has been associated with head and neck cancer as much as it had been linked to ulcers and stomach cancer.
A new study however, shows that this concept might be wrong. Continue reading
Understanding Endoscopy Medical Procedure
Endoscopy is a type of non-surgical medical procedure to study the insides of a person’s digestive tract. The endoscope is a long, flexible tube that is built with a special light and camera, allowing the doctor to see what is inside without having to cut the patient open.
There are two main types of endoscopy: upper and lower endoscopy. Upper endoscopy is when the endoscope is passed through the mouth and esophagus. Lower endoscopy is passed through the rectum and the large intestine. This may also be referred to as a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Continue reading
Facial Nerve – Controlling Facial Muscles
The facial nerve is properly referred to as the Cranial Nerve VII. Cranial nerves are special control nerves either emerging from the cranium instead of the spine (those are referred to as spinal nerves). There are twelve altogether and each has their own major function. The seventh cranial nerve is the facial nerve.
Functions of the Facial Nerve
Controls Facial Expressions – the facial nerve’s primary function is to provide control over the facial muscles. The reasons why people can wrinkle their forehead, smile, and whistle are because of properly functioning facial nerves. Continue reading
The Risks and Dangers of Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty refers to cosmetic or corrective surgery of the nose. Most people undergo rhinoplasty to alter the way their nose looks or is structured. It is also conducted to repair or restore a person’s nose that may have been disfigured due to an accident or complications from previous surgeries.
However, as is the case with all forms of surgery, there is the potential for risks and side effects. Even the most successful rhinoplastic operations may lead to some complications. Here is a look at some of the risks and side effects of rhinoplasy. Continue reading