What is aldesleukin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Aldesleukin is a man-made protein that has the same action as native human interleukin-2 (IL-2) that is used for treating cancer of the kidney and skin. Interleukins are the messengers by which white blood cells communicate with each other to coordinate inflammation and immunity. Among its actions, IL-2 increases...
What Triggers Bipolar Disorder?
What is bipolar disorder? Bipolar disorder is a mental condition that causes unusual and extreme shifts in mood. Bipolar disorder is characterized by periods of deep, prolonged and profound depression that alternate with periods of an excessively elevated or irritable mood known as mania. Bipolar disorder is also called manic-depressive illness or manic depression. Bipolar disorder does not have any cure,...
What Triggers Temporal Arteritis and Is It Serious?
What is temporal arteritis? Temporal arteritis is a rare but serious autoimmune disease. Temporal arteritis is a potentially serious condition with many complications if left untreated. Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, is an inflammation of the arteries around the scalp and neck region. It is often associated with a condition called polymyalgia rheumatica, a feeling of aching...
Ammonium Lactate (Amlactin) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is ammonium lactate topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Ammonium lactate is an anti-itch topical medication formulated from 12% lactic acid and ammonium hydroxide. Ammonium lactate hydrates the outermost skin layer and promotes skin moisturizing for a prolonged time. Ammonium lactate also prevents keratinization of epidermal skin layer, which keeps skin smoother and hydrated for a...
Which Sprouts Should Not Be Eaten Raw?
Sprouts are hailed for various health benefits including boosting heart health and immunity. Sprouts are hailed for various health benefits including boosting heart health and immunity. However, there have been concerns about their adverse health effects, particularly when they are consumed raw. Consumption of any of the raw sprouts including alfalfa, radish, beans and clover sprouts may lead to harmful...
Who Is Most at Risk for Esophageal Cancer? Causes & Risks
Esophageal Cancer A person who both smokes and consumes alcohol may be more at risk of getting esophageal cancer than the one who consumes either of it. When cancer starts from the food pipe (esophagus), it is called esophageal cancer. Esophageal cancer can affect anyone. But certain factors can increase one’s risk of getting it. These are known as risk...
Why Are Calcium Levels Low in Renal Failure?
Why are calcium levels low in renal failure? The kidneys help regulate calcium levels in the body. There is a complex coordination between the calcium controlling glands (the parathyroid gland), vitamin D (made by the skin or a diet) and the kidneys that is affected once kidney disease progresses. Renal failure usually causes calcium imbalance. During renal failure, the kidneys...
Why Am I Getting Period Cramps With No Blood?
What are period cramps? Period cramps are uaully a normal sign of menstruation, however, there may be times when you don't have blood. Signs of possible other conditions including ovulation, pelvic inflammatory disease, a ruptured ovarian cyst, endometriosis, and irritable bowel syndrom (IBS). Period cramps, sometimes called dysmenorrhea, are the pain associated with menstruation. Mild pain is a normal part...
alemtuzumab (Campath): Leukemia Drug Side Effects & Dosage
What is alemtuzumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Alemtuzumab is an injectable drug used for the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). People with CLL have too many of a type of white blood cell called lymphocytes in the blood and bone marrow. Alemtuzumab is an antibody that targets a protein called CD52 that is found...
Who Is at a High Risk of Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer affects men and women equally. It is more common among people who are 50 years and older but can rarely occur in teenagers as well. Colon cancer affects men and women equally. It is more common among people who are 50 years and older but can rarely occur in teenagers as well. Although some factors can increase the...