SUPERStudy: Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) Introduction Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic disorder characterized by ongoing hepatocellular necrosis and inflammation, often progressing to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. It is associated with hypergammaglobulinemia, autoantibodies, and histological findings of interface hepatitis. Etiology Idiopathic: The exact cause is unknown. Immune Dysregulation: Triggered by environmental factors (e.g., infections, drugs) in […]
SUPERStudy: Hepatitis B Introduction Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), a partially double-stranded DNA virus of the Hepadnaviridae family. It can cause both acute and chronic liver disease, leading to complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Etiology Causative agent: Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Transmission […]
SUPERStudy: Lead Poisoning (Plumbism) Introduction Lead poisoning (plumbism) is a condition resulting from the toxic accumulation of lead in the body, affecting multiple organ systems, particularly the nervous system, hematopoietic system, and kidneys. It is a major concern in children due to their increased susceptibility to its neurotoxic effects. Etiology Sources of exposure: Lead-based paints […]
SUPERStudy: Folate Supplementation in Pregnancy Introduction: Folate (vitamin B9) is an essential nutrient during pregnancy, playing a crucial role in DNA synthesis, cell division, and the formation of the neural tube in the developing fetus. Folate supplementation is critical for preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Pathophysiology: During pregnancy, folate […]
Introduction Organophosphate poisoning is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by exposure to organophosphate (OP) compounds. These agents irreversibly inhibit acetylcholinesterase, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine and overstimulation of cholinergic receptors. Etiology Sources: Agricultural pesticides (e.g., malathion, parathion). Chemical warfare agents (e.g., sarin, VX gas). Ophthalmologic agents for glaucoma (e.g., echothiophate, isoflurophate). Accidental exposure or […]
Introduction Neurofibromatosis (NF) refers to a group of genetic disorders characterized by the development of multiple benign tumors of the nervous system, skin, and other organs. The two main types are Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also known as von Recklinghausen disease, and Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). Etiology NF1: Caused by mutations in the NF1 gene […]
Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually acquired infection in the world. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a preventive measure aimed at reducing the incidence of HPV-related diseases, including cervical, anal, oropharyngeal, and other cancers, as well as genital warts. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and certain high-risk types (e.g., […]
Introduction Meconium ileus is a neonatal intestinal obstruction caused by abnormally thick and sticky meconium, typically located in the distal ileum. It is a hallmark of cystic fibrosis (CF) and often the first presentation of this genetic disorder. Etiology Primary Cause: Cystic fibrosis due to mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to abnormal chloride and […]
Introduction: Choriocarcinoma is a highly malignant type of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) that arises from abnormal trophoblastic tissue following pregnancy. It is characterized by the proliferation of syncytiotrophoblasts and cytotrophoblasts without the formation of villi. This tumor is highly vascular and prone to hematogenous spread, making it an aggressive cancer. Epidemiology: Choriocarcinoma is reported […]
Introduction Congenital aganglionic megacolon, or Hirschsprung disease (HD), is a congenital disorder characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal bowel due to neural crest cell migration failure during fetal development. This results in a lack of coordinated peristalsis and functional obstruction. Pathophysiology Neural Crest Cell Migration Failure: Ganglion cells in the submucosal […]
