Sclerosis
Localized hardening of skin. Sclerosis is generally caused by underlying diseases, such as diabetes and scleroderma. Treatment is directed toward the cause.
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- Sclerosis, multiple
A disease that is characterized by loss of myelin (demyelinization). Abbreviated MS. Myelin, the coating of nerve fibers, is composed of lipids (fats) and protein. It serves as insulation and permits efficient nerve fiber conduction. In MS, demyelinization usually affects white matter in the brain, but sometimes it extends into the gray matter. When myelin […]
- Sclerotherapy
The injection of a chemical irritant into a vein to sclerose (‘harden’) it. The chemical irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to swell and the blood to clot. The vein turns into scar tissue that fades from view. Blood flow shifts to nearby healthy blood vessels. Sclerotherapy may be done to treat varicose […]
- SCN (severe congenital neutropenia)
A condition characterized by a lack of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that is important in fighting infection. It is usually, but not always, hereditary. Children with severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) suffer frequent infections from bacteria, which in the past led to death in three-quarters of cases before three years of age. Children […]
- Scoliosis
Lateral (sideways) curving of the spine. The degree of scoliosis may range from mild to severe. Of every 1,000 children, 3 to 5 develop spinal curvature that is considered severe enough to need treatment. Adolescent idiopathic (of unknown cause) scoliosis is the most common type and appears after the age of 10, commonly in teens. […]
- Scoliosis, acquired
Lateral (sideways) curving of the spine that is neither present at birth nor results from a condition that is present at birth.