Yellow Fever Yellow fever is a serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes and in some areas the virus becomes endemic causing death of many people. It is a viral fever found largely in African countries and in some parts of South America. It is reported that about 50% of people affected with severe form of yellow fever die each year; however this can be prevented by vaccination.
Symptoms :
There will not be any signs and symptoms during the incubation period which may lasts for 3-5 days after you have contracted the virus. After 5 days the virus will assume an acute phase during which there can be mild-moderate symptoms. Some of the symptoms of acute phase of yellow fever are mild fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body pain, drowsiness, muscle aches, acute pain in your back/knees, loss of appetite and redness in your eyes and face.
In the toxic phase, the symptoms will become worse. In some cases, toxic phase can be very dangerous causing life threatening symptoms. The skin color of the infected person becomes yellowish producing jaundice like symptoms. He may have severe abdominal pain followed by blood vomiting. Total urine output may reduce considerably indicating kidney failure. Some people may get bloody discharge from the nose and mouth. The heart function may collapse suddenly and for some there may be brain dysfunction. It can also cause grand mal seizures and coma in some people. Often, the toxic phase of the yellow fever will be fatal if not treated immediately. Due to prolonged infection the virus discharge plenty of toxins in the blood causing the above symptoms.
For many patients, the initial symptoms of acute phase will disappear for 5-7 days if proper treatment is taken. However for others the virus will enter into toxic phase followed by remission of initial symptoms. In the toxic phase, the patient will die within a week or two if the rate of toxicity is severe.
Causes :
Yellow fever is spread by female mosquito of type Aedes aegypti which carries the virus. When it bites the person for sucking blood, it injects the virus into the bloodstream. Many cases of yellow fever are reported in Saharan African regions and tropic areas of S. America. This type of mosquito can breed even in the cleanest form of water.
Monkeys and human-beings are the prime target of yellow fever. The virus will usually travel back and forth from the mosquito infecting several millions of animals or humans. It would enter the mosquito’s bloodstream from the body of the infected person and circulates in its body for some period. Again it will enter the salivary glands of the mosquito preparing itself for getting transmitted into another animal or man.
Tests :
Diagnosing yellow fever is not an easy task like any other disease. The disease cannot be confirmed based on its signs alone since the symptoms given above are the same for many other infectious diseases like malaria, dengue fever and typhoid.
Your doctor will collect complete medical history apart from asking few questions about your recent travels. He would request for complete blood test like ELISA test and polymerase chain reaction test. These tests will give report about the specific antibodies or antigens produced in the body in response to the attacking virus. It will take several days for getting the result of the test. Liver biopsy test done after the death of the patient would also reveal the presence of virus.
Types of Yellow Fever :
Transmission of yellow fever occurs when the infected mosquitoes bite the animals or humans. It is the mosquito that spreads the virus from one host to another.
Sylvatic Yellow Fever : It occurs in the monkeys that live in tropical rainforests of Saharan Africa. The infection spreads to other mosquitoes that feed on the feces of the infected monkeys. The mosquitoes will again spread infection to other monkeys and humans.
Intermediate Yellow Fever : It occurs as epidemic of small scale (restricted to specific zones). The mosquitoes that breed on water medium on the houses and forests will spread the infection to other people and mosquitoes. This occurs in small villages where there is close contact of people who are not vaccinated.
Urban yellow fever occurs when the infected people visit the urban areas spreading the infection in densely populated areas. Around 20-50% of the infected people will face death within two weeks of infection. The infected virus spreads the toxic materials throughout the body causing liver/kidney failure.
Treatment :
At present there is no antiviral drug available for treating yellow fever. Hence treatment can only be given for reducing the symptoms and preventing kidney failure. Blood plasma transfusion is done for removing the infected blood.
Prevention :
It is ideal to get vaccinated for yellow fever to prevent its infection. Effective vaccines are available for yellow fever and people who are planning to visit the Saharan African countries can consult their doctor about taking vaccination. The vaccination should be given at least 2 weeks prior to travel. Taking one shot of vaccination for yellow fever will give you comprehensive protection for ten years. It can cause minor side effects like fever and headache.
Vaccine should not be given for children below 9 years and for older adults since it may produce some complications. Vaccination is not given for pregnant women and infants and young children. Stay protected from mosquitoes by using mosquito repellants and by wearing fully covered thick clothing while visiting the infected areas. Avoid going out when the mosquitoes are in highly active stage. Using products that contain DEET can give you total protection from mosquito bites.
Monday, May 5, 2014
Dengue Fever
Dengue Fever Dengue fever is an acute illness caused by mosquitoes that carries viruses. It is marked by features of joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and fever and skin rash. Dengue fever is an epidemic and the symptoms last only for 2 weeks. Treatment is given for reducing the intensity of symptoms since no medicine is available for treating it. Dengue fever infection can be had by any age group of persons but the people with weakened immunity have increased risk of contracting it. Dengue fever is also called as “dandy fever” and “breakbone fever”.
Who are at risk?
Tropical zones are prone to get attacked by dengue fever. The regions like Puerto Rico in the Caribbean and the Virgin Islands, Cuba of the America developed outbreak of dengue fever. However cases of outbreaks have been reported in Singapore, Thailand, India, Southeast Asian countries and the South Pacific regions also.
How it spreads?
The mosquito of family Aedes aegypti carries the virus that causes dengue fever and transmits the virus when it bites the person. Even single bite received from carrier mosquito is enough to cause dengue fever. Unlike other infectious diseases, dengue does not spread from one person to the other directly. The mosquito will carry the virus from the bloodstream of the infected person and bite another person nearby thus passing the virus to him.
Symptoms :
The person who is bitten by the infected mosquito will not get the symptoms immediately. There is a gap of 3-10 days from the date of mosquito bite to the onset of first sign which is called as incubation period. Initial symptoms of dengue fever include chills/fever, sudden headache and pain on moving the eyes. The joints of the entire body begin to experience sharp pain from time to time and the pain is felt more on the leg joints. Some people may have nausea, vomiting sensation with severe muscle pain and backache.
Within 2-3 days the fever will begin to rise sharply followed by low blood pressure. It can cause pink colored dark spots on the skin indicating skin rashes. In severe cases, it can cause bleeding of nose and gums indicating damage to the lymph nodes. For some people the liver becomes enlarged due to swelling and the disease progresses to cause poor blood circulation. In extreme cases, it can cause massive internal bleeding and death. Dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome are mostly fatal.
Diagnoses :
It is difficult to diagnose dengue fever based on the above symptoms alone because these symptoms are common for flu and other viral infections. A person is said to have developed dengue fever if he/she has continuous fever, headache and severe muscle ache with eye pain. If you have travelled recently to dengue affected areas it is good to tell your doctor so that he can make easy diagnoses. Recently, FDA has approved a new test called DENV for detecting the virus of dengue fever.
Treatment :
No medication is available for treating dengue fever. Drugs are given only for reducing the intensity of symptoms. The infected person should take complete rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. NSAID and aspirin is given for reducing fever and other symptoms. Tylenol or acetaminophen can be effective for treating headache and joint pain.
Complications :
In severe cases, dengue fever can become fatal disturbing the circulatory system or cause blood hemorrhage inducing death.
Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever :
This type of fever attacks the children below 10 years and people with weak immunity. Typical symptoms are severe abdominal pain, internal bleeding (hemorrhage) and collapse of circulatory system (shock). The person will develop continuous fever, headache, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and severe abdominal pain. The extremities will become cool and weak and there can be blue coloration in the mouth. Due to internal bleeding there can be several blood spots on the skin and bloody discharge from the nose and gums and on the stool.
Prevention :
Currently, no vaccine is available for preventing dengue fever. The only way to prevent this deadly disease is to avoid mosquito bites and not to travel to epidemic prone areas. Mosquitoes are to be eradicated to stop the dengue infection. Stagnant water should be emptied at once to prevent breeding of mosquitoes further.
Wearing long pants with full sleeves is helpful to escape from mosquito bite. You can always use DEET while visiting dengue prone regions. Mosquitoes are fully active during early mornings and before sunset. One has to restrict any outdoor events during this time if you are visiting dengue areas.
Regions where dengue is Prevalent :
India, China, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, most of the Mexico region, African subcontinent and some parts of South America are the common areas that are prone to dengue fever. People living in Mexico-Texas border had an outbreak in 2009.
Who are at risk?
Tropical zones are prone to get attacked by dengue fever. The regions like Puerto Rico in the Caribbean and the Virgin Islands, Cuba of the America developed outbreak of dengue fever. However cases of outbreaks have been reported in Singapore, Thailand, India, Southeast Asian countries and the South Pacific regions also.
How it spreads?
The mosquito of family Aedes aegypti carries the virus that causes dengue fever and transmits the virus when it bites the person. Even single bite received from carrier mosquito is enough to cause dengue fever. Unlike other infectious diseases, dengue does not spread from one person to the other directly. The mosquito will carry the virus from the bloodstream of the infected person and bite another person nearby thus passing the virus to him.
Symptoms :
The person who is bitten by the infected mosquito will not get the symptoms immediately. There is a gap of 3-10 days from the date of mosquito bite to the onset of first sign which is called as incubation period. Initial symptoms of dengue fever include chills/fever, sudden headache and pain on moving the eyes. The joints of the entire body begin to experience sharp pain from time to time and the pain is felt more on the leg joints. Some people may have nausea, vomiting sensation with severe muscle pain and backache.
Within 2-3 days the fever will begin to rise sharply followed by low blood pressure. It can cause pink colored dark spots on the skin indicating skin rashes. In severe cases, it can cause bleeding of nose and gums indicating damage to the lymph nodes. For some people the liver becomes enlarged due to swelling and the disease progresses to cause poor blood circulation. In extreme cases, it can cause massive internal bleeding and death. Dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome are mostly fatal.
Diagnoses :
It is difficult to diagnose dengue fever based on the above symptoms alone because these symptoms are common for flu and other viral infections. A person is said to have developed dengue fever if he/she has continuous fever, headache and severe muscle ache with eye pain. If you have travelled recently to dengue affected areas it is good to tell your doctor so that he can make easy diagnoses. Recently, FDA has approved a new test called DENV for detecting the virus of dengue fever.
Treatment :
No medication is available for treating dengue fever. Drugs are given only for reducing the intensity of symptoms. The infected person should take complete rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. NSAID and aspirin is given for reducing fever and other symptoms. Tylenol or acetaminophen can be effective for treating headache and joint pain.
Complications :
In severe cases, dengue fever can become fatal disturbing the circulatory system or cause blood hemorrhage inducing death.
Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever :
This type of fever attacks the children below 10 years and people with weak immunity. Typical symptoms are severe abdominal pain, internal bleeding (hemorrhage) and collapse of circulatory system (shock). The person will develop continuous fever, headache, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and severe abdominal pain. The extremities will become cool and weak and there can be blue coloration in the mouth. Due to internal bleeding there can be several blood spots on the skin and bloody discharge from the nose and gums and on the stool.
Prevention :
Currently, no vaccine is available for preventing dengue fever. The only way to prevent this deadly disease is to avoid mosquito bites and not to travel to epidemic prone areas. Mosquitoes are to be eradicated to stop the dengue infection. Stagnant water should be emptied at once to prevent breeding of mosquitoes further.
Wearing long pants with full sleeves is helpful to escape from mosquito bite. You can always use DEET while visiting dengue prone regions. Mosquitoes are fully active during early mornings and before sunset. One has to restrict any outdoor events during this time if you are visiting dengue areas.
Regions where dengue is Prevalent :
India, China, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, most of the Mexico region, African subcontinent and some parts of South America are the common areas that are prone to dengue fever. People living in Mexico-Texas border had an outbreak in 2009.
Q Fever
Q Fever Q fever is caused by Coxiella bumetii bacterium and it is a serious infection damaging your liver, heart and other vital organs of the body. Actually, the bacteria would infect the cattle and birds as well as some insects and humans receive this infection by drinking the contaminated milk and droplets of these animals. Individuals who are maintaining cattle and dairy products and vet doctors who treat infected animals are at high risk of developing Q fever.
Symptoms :
Incubation period for these bacteria is about 20-25 days. Often the symptoms of Q fever are mild which include low grade fever, headache, dry cough, muscle pain, loss of appetite and joint pain. For severe cases it may cause skin rash, abdominal pain and chest pain. In rare cases it may produce jaundice like symptoms causing yellowish skin indicating liver problem. Q fever is an acute illness that gets treated within few days. However in some cases it can be chronic causing chills, fever (prolonged) and extreme fatigue.
How it is contracted?
Animals like goat and sheep would carry the microbial in their tissues related to birth. (like that of uterus, placenta and birth fluids). Such animals have the highest content of bacteria when they give birth to young ones. These carrier animals would also release the bacteria in their manure and even milk. Anyone who drinks that raw milk is prone to develop Q fever infection. Similarly people who inhale the spores and dusts that are contaminated with microbes are at high risk of developing this infection. There is every chance for the infection to get transmitted through direct skin contact with infected animals.
Soon after birth, most of the animals will eat the tissues released during birth. In that case, the bacteria would again enter into the digestive tract of these animals and survive through their intestine and released in the form of dung/manure. Thus Q fever has immense chance of spreading into the environment like soil, air and manure. Man can easily develop this infection when he deals with infected manure or soil directly.
Diagnoses :
The doctor will look for the symptoms and assess the nature of job the infected person is involved. He would order for blood profile to measure the number of antibodies in the blood. High number of antibodies indicates infection.
Treatment :
Q fever can be treated with powerful antibiotics like tetracycline. Normally the infected person can fully recover if treatment is taken promptly. The dosage for chronic Q fever is doxycycline 100mg to be taken for every 12 hours. The medication to be continued for at least a week even after the fever subsides. For chronic cases, the doctor may prescribe hydroxychloroquine and doxycycline to prevent liver infection. The medications are to be taken for several weeks and even months to destroy the infectious bacteria completely.
Who are at risk? :
Q fever can be developed by farmers and cattle workers whose job involves frequent contact with animals. Farmers, farm workers, meat packers, stockyard workers, animal researchers and workers who deal with pet animals and lab technician who tests the infected man’s blood sample or tissue can develop Q fever.
Those who are involved in manufacturing animal products like hides and those who manage livestock and those who deal with animals daily like veterinary doctors and lab technicians have the highest risks of developing Q fever. Individuals with congenital heart problems and weakened immunity may also develop this infection easily.
Prevention :
Vaccine is available to prevent Q fever but is usually given to individuals who are at high risk of developing Q fever. This vaccine can become allergic to the person who does not have infected microbe within him. As a matter of precaution, workers who deal with infected animals daily can take Q fever blood test to find whether they have resistance.
By taking personal precautions while handling infected animals one can avoid developing Q fever. One can wear protective clothing which must be washed with special laundry procedures for treating disinfection. One should take extreme care while handling tissues of infected animals especially during birth.
Symptoms :
Incubation period for these bacteria is about 20-25 days. Often the symptoms of Q fever are mild which include low grade fever, headache, dry cough, muscle pain, loss of appetite and joint pain. For severe cases it may cause skin rash, abdominal pain and chest pain. In rare cases it may produce jaundice like symptoms causing yellowish skin indicating liver problem. Q fever is an acute illness that gets treated within few days. However in some cases it can be chronic causing chills, fever (prolonged) and extreme fatigue.
How it is contracted?
Animals like goat and sheep would carry the microbial in their tissues related to birth. (like that of uterus, placenta and birth fluids). Such animals have the highest content of bacteria when they give birth to young ones. These carrier animals would also release the bacteria in their manure and even milk. Anyone who drinks that raw milk is prone to develop Q fever infection. Similarly people who inhale the spores and dusts that are contaminated with microbes are at high risk of developing this infection. There is every chance for the infection to get transmitted through direct skin contact with infected animals.
Soon after birth, most of the animals will eat the tissues released during birth. In that case, the bacteria would again enter into the digestive tract of these animals and survive through their intestine and released in the form of dung/manure. Thus Q fever has immense chance of spreading into the environment like soil, air and manure. Man can easily develop this infection when he deals with infected manure or soil directly.
Diagnoses :
The doctor will look for the symptoms and assess the nature of job the infected person is involved. He would order for blood profile to measure the number of antibodies in the blood. High number of antibodies indicates infection.
Treatment :
Q fever can be treated with powerful antibiotics like tetracycline. Normally the infected person can fully recover if treatment is taken promptly. The dosage for chronic Q fever is doxycycline 100mg to be taken for every 12 hours. The medication to be continued for at least a week even after the fever subsides. For chronic cases, the doctor may prescribe hydroxychloroquine and doxycycline to prevent liver infection. The medications are to be taken for several weeks and even months to destroy the infectious bacteria completely.
Who are at risk? :
Q fever can be developed by farmers and cattle workers whose job involves frequent contact with animals. Farmers, farm workers, meat packers, stockyard workers, animal researchers and workers who deal with pet animals and lab technician who tests the infected man’s blood sample or tissue can develop Q fever.
Those who are involved in manufacturing animal products like hides and those who manage livestock and those who deal with animals daily like veterinary doctors and lab technicians have the highest risks of developing Q fever. Individuals with congenital heart problems and weakened immunity may also develop this infection easily.
Prevention :
Vaccine is available to prevent Q fever but is usually given to individuals who are at high risk of developing Q fever. This vaccine can become allergic to the person who does not have infected microbe within him. As a matter of precaution, workers who deal with infected animals daily can take Q fever blood test to find whether they have resistance.
By taking personal precautions while handling infected animals one can avoid developing Q fever. One can wear protective clothing which must be washed with special laundry procedures for treating disinfection. One should take extreme care while handling tissues of infected animals especially during birth.
Peritonsillar Abscess
Peritonsillar Abscess An abscess can be defined as collection of pus and peritonsillar abscess develops on the throat region close to tonsils. The skin that surrounds the tonsils gets infected accumulating body fluid forming an abscess. This may cause considerable difficulty in swallowing and drinking and for some people it can also affect normal speaking and breathing. This infection is common among adults and is caused by bacteria. Needle aspiration is the best treatment for peritonsillar abscess.
Causes :
If there is any infection that develops on the tonsils it may spread quickly affecting the soft tissues in that area causing irritation and abscess. Peritonsillar abscess is a common condition of tonsillitis and is seen often on adults. Usually only one side of the tonsils are affected to form an abscess and the infection is caused by bacteria. Bacteria find entry into the body through the nearby glands and spreads infection. For some people dental procedures can also cause this infection. Smoking and severe form of tonsillitis can also cause peritonsillar abscess.
Symptoms :
The infection often begins with sore throat. Some of the signs of peritonsillar abscess are mild fever, swelling inside the throat, difficulty in swallowing and also speaking. This infection of tonsillitis can occupy the region of uvula (that hangs in the middle of your throat) causing irritation and pain. On account of fluid deposits lymph glands of the neck may become swollen. Sometimes your voice may sound muffled and you may not be able to speak properly. For severe cases it can also cause ear pain on the side in which abscess has developed. It is the streptococcus pyogenes that cause peritonsillar abscess.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor will physically examine the throat and collect the medical history. Peritonsillar abscess can be diagnosed easily. If necessary, he may use a tongue depressor and use lighting for detecting tonsillitis. He may also collect some tissue or pus from the abscess for testing in the lab to detect the kind of bacteria.
Treatment :
Suitable antibiotics are prescribed for destroying bacteria. The most effective way for treating peritonsillar abscess is to remove the abscess completely. Depending on the report of the diagnoses suitable antibiotics is chosen and prescribed. Penicillin was often used for treating the abscess in olden days but now it has been replaced with clindamycin.
Some doctors still use penicillin combined with metronidazole given in suitable doses twice daily. For severe types of abscess, surgery is the best way. Depending on the size and growth of abscess needle aspiration or drainage or incision is done. Tonsillectomy is to be followed after draining the abscess.
Causes :
If there is any infection that develops on the tonsils it may spread quickly affecting the soft tissues in that area causing irritation and abscess. Peritonsillar abscess is a common condition of tonsillitis and is seen often on adults. Usually only one side of the tonsils are affected to form an abscess and the infection is caused by bacteria. Bacteria find entry into the body through the nearby glands and spreads infection. For some people dental procedures can also cause this infection. Smoking and severe form of tonsillitis can also cause peritonsillar abscess.
Symptoms :
The infection often begins with sore throat. Some of the signs of peritonsillar abscess are mild fever, swelling inside the throat, difficulty in swallowing and also speaking. This infection of tonsillitis can occupy the region of uvula (that hangs in the middle of your throat) causing irritation and pain. On account of fluid deposits lymph glands of the neck may become swollen. Sometimes your voice may sound muffled and you may not be able to speak properly. For severe cases it can also cause ear pain on the side in which abscess has developed. It is the streptococcus pyogenes that cause peritonsillar abscess.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor will physically examine the throat and collect the medical history. Peritonsillar abscess can be diagnosed easily. If necessary, he may use a tongue depressor and use lighting for detecting tonsillitis. He may also collect some tissue or pus from the abscess for testing in the lab to detect the kind of bacteria.
Treatment :
Suitable antibiotics are prescribed for destroying bacteria. The most effective way for treating peritonsillar abscess is to remove the abscess completely. Depending on the report of the diagnoses suitable antibiotics is chosen and prescribed. Penicillin was often used for treating the abscess in olden days but now it has been replaced with clindamycin.
Some doctors still use penicillin combined with metronidazole given in suitable doses twice daily. For severe types of abscess, surgery is the best way. Depending on the size and growth of abscess needle aspiration or drainage or incision is done. Tonsillectomy is to be followed after draining the abscess.
Tinea Capitis
Tinea Capitis Tinea capitis (commonly known as ringworm) is an infection affecting the hair on the scalp. It causes itchy patches on your head and the infection is contagious. Often school going children and infants picks up this infection. Suitable medications are given for treating this infection. The pattern of infection of tinea capitis is not the same for all the people since it varies with the organisms that cause it. Sometimes animals can be the host for carrying the micro-organisms which in turn enters the skin through the scalp causing skin irritation and red scaly patches.
Symptoms :
Some of the common signs of T. capitis are scaly red patches on the scalp. The patches will start as a small red spot which will slowly grow in size forming circular patches. The hair will eventually fall off in the place where patches are formed. It causes consistent itching and irritation on the affected area. Often it is the brittle hair that gets infected first on your scalp. Since the infection is commonly seen in young children and infants you need to consult your doctor once you notice any changes in his scalp or hair loss.
Causes :
A fungus is the main cause for T. capitis. It attacks the outermost layer of the skin surface on the scalp. Ringworm or tinea capitis is not caused by worm. It derives the name due to the formation of ring like patches on the scalp.
How it is contracted?
The fungus can be transmitted to humans from other human beings (child to child), from animals to humans (from pet animals which often become carriers) and also from other objects (touched by infected person) to humans. The object can vary from clothing to combs or brushes used by infected person.
Who are at risk?
Toddlers and school going children and those who are in day care centers are at increased risk for developing T. capitis. A sudden outbreak of ringworm is common in child centers and schools where infection can spread easily. Children who play with pet animals that is infected are prone to develop this infection. In severe cases, it can form painful inflammation on the scalp leading to hair loss.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor will examine the scalp of the affected child closely and if necessary he would collect small amount of scrapings from the scalp for testing. On testing under the microscope it would reveal the type of fungus that has caused the infection.
Treatment :
Often antifungal medications like Grifulvin V or Gris peg is prescribed for T. capitis. It is necessary for the affected child to follow complete course of medication without interruption. Depending on the intensity of infection, 4-6 weeks of medications are prescribed. Alternatively fluconazole or terbinafine are also given. Your doctor may also prescribe medicated shampoo for your child to remove the leftover spores from the scalp. You should not send the infected child to school or child care center since the infection may easily spread to other children.
Pictures of Tinea Capitis :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Tinea Capitis
Prevention :
It is difficult to prevent T. capitis since the ringworm fungus is highly contagious. You need to inform your children about the ringworm and teach him/her the methods of avoiding infection. Ensure that your child is having regular head wash so that no dirt accumulates there.
If you are having pet animals, ensure that they are safe and free from any infection. In most of the cases, the animals may not show any signs hence it is difficult to identify the infection. Instruct your children not to share any personal items with other children since it gives high risk of developing the infection.
Symptoms :
Some of the common signs of T. capitis are scaly red patches on the scalp. The patches will start as a small red spot which will slowly grow in size forming circular patches. The hair will eventually fall off in the place where patches are formed. It causes consistent itching and irritation on the affected area. Often it is the brittle hair that gets infected first on your scalp. Since the infection is commonly seen in young children and infants you need to consult your doctor once you notice any changes in his scalp or hair loss.
Causes :
A fungus is the main cause for T. capitis. It attacks the outermost layer of the skin surface on the scalp. Ringworm or tinea capitis is not caused by worm. It derives the name due to the formation of ring like patches on the scalp.
How it is contracted?
The fungus can be transmitted to humans from other human beings (child to child), from animals to humans (from pet animals which often become carriers) and also from other objects (touched by infected person) to humans. The object can vary from clothing to combs or brushes used by infected person.
Who are at risk?
Toddlers and school going children and those who are in day care centers are at increased risk for developing T. capitis. A sudden outbreak of ringworm is common in child centers and schools where infection can spread easily. Children who play with pet animals that is infected are prone to develop this infection. In severe cases, it can form painful inflammation on the scalp leading to hair loss.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor will examine the scalp of the affected child closely and if necessary he would collect small amount of scrapings from the scalp for testing. On testing under the microscope it would reveal the type of fungus that has caused the infection.
Treatment :
Often antifungal medications like Grifulvin V or Gris peg is prescribed for T. capitis. It is necessary for the affected child to follow complete course of medication without interruption. Depending on the intensity of infection, 4-6 weeks of medications are prescribed. Alternatively fluconazole or terbinafine are also given. Your doctor may also prescribe medicated shampoo for your child to remove the leftover spores from the scalp. You should not send the infected child to school or child care center since the infection may easily spread to other children.
Pictures of Tinea Capitis :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Tinea Capitis
Prevention :
It is difficult to prevent T. capitis since the ringworm fungus is highly contagious. You need to inform your children about the ringworm and teach him/her the methods of avoiding infection. Ensure that your child is having regular head wash so that no dirt accumulates there.
If you are having pet animals, ensure that they are safe and free from any infection. In most of the cases, the animals may not show any signs hence it is difficult to identify the infection. Instruct your children not to share any personal items with other children since it gives high risk of developing the infection.
Flesh Eating Disease
Flesh Eating Disease Flesh eating disease also known as necrotizing fasciitis is an infectious disease that causes death of tissues causing organ failure. It is actually the bacteria that eat away the flesh or connective tissues cause necrosis (death of tissue). Various types of bacteria can cause this infectious disease. This infection spreads rapidly to the connective tissues of fascial planes thus destroying them. It usually starts from the existing infection.
Antibiotics are the best treatment for this disease and sometimes surgery has to be done for removing the infected part from the body. Fascial planes are connective tissues that envelop the nerves, muscles and blood vessels of our body. They are binding structures that facilitate flexible movement of the body and infection can occur on any part of the tissue.
Causes :
Flesh eating disease is caused by different types of bacteria. Predominantly streptococcus pyogenes is responsible for spreading infection on the tissues. In rare cases fungus can also cause this disease.
Type 1 infection is caused by polymicrobial bacteria and Type 2 by strep bacteria. In case gas is present in the infection Clostridium bacteria can also cause infection. In many cases non-anaerobic bacteria initially damages the tissue which leads to hypoxia (reduction of oxygen) which becomes easy base for the anaerobic bacteria to attack on them.
Symptoms :
Often, flesh eating disease or necrotizing fasciitis begins in the existing infection or wound in the body. It can be either in the hands or legs or even on the trunk. Some of the common kinds of infectious areas are wounds, cuts on the skin, surgical incisions or injury caused by insect bite etc. Once the bacteria enter into the spot it multiplies rapidly spreading the infection to the connective tissues of the organ. Now the infected area becomes swollen and red.
Some of the symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis are sharp pain, redness and swelling on the wound or site of infection accompanied by fever and chills. The skin may form ulcers or fluid filled blisters or black scabs or sometimes gas is formed inside the tissues. It may also cause oozing of yellowish pus like liquid from the infected wound. Depending on the type of bacteria the symptoms can be mild to severe. For some people, the infection begins on the deep facial planes of the connective tissue and for others it starts after minor skin injury like cuts or abrasions. In case the infection attacks the immune system the patient may develop liver problems like hepatitis or liver disease. In rare cases infants that are born prematurely are prone to develop this disease.
Risk Factors :
Any person who carries a wound or insect bite or injury on any part of the body is prone to further infection like necrotizing fasciitis. Infants, elderly people, people who are diabetic (for long periods) and people with weakened immunity disorders like cancer or AIDS and those who are undergoing chemotherapy are prone to get infection easily.
People who have undergone surgery recently particularly on their bones, joints or muscles are at high risk of getting infected. Do not delay the treatment if you suspect something is wrong since it can cause loss of organs or any other complication.
Diagnoses :
The doctor would initially examine the affected part of the body after collecting the medical history of the person. He would ask few questions about the injury or wound. Depending on the site of infection he may order for several tests. If a diabetic patient complains of intense pain with swelling and changes in skin color it can be due to Fournier’s gangrene. Once the doctor suspects an attack from bacteria he would promptly put the patient on antibiotics to prevent further complications.
Biopsy of the tissue (infected) is done for testing in the laboratory for detecting the type of organism. If the doctor suspects gas in the tissues then he may order for imaging tests like X-rays, CT or MRI scans to detect the extent of infection. In addition, complete blood test is done to detect WBC count and for studying the level of blood urea nitrogen.
Treatment :
Depending on the health condition of the patient, he will be hospitalized and put on IV fluids to start with antibiotic therapy. A combination of various antibiotics is normally used if the doctor suspects multiple bacterial infections. Report from the lab will help in detecting the type of bacteria that has caused infection and accordingly the antibiotics are administered.
Surgery :
Debridement of the tissue is done if the infection is deep. The risk of complications or death is reduced by early intervention of surgery to remove the dead tissues. If the patient is very sick and has developed organ failure or other complications he/she should be treated on emergency basis. The patient will be supplemented with breathing tube and given lot of drugs and antibiotics to prevent further growth of bacteria and death of tissues. Complete recovery of the patient depends on the organ/site infected and also on the intensity of the infection.
Prevention :
If you suspect any infection on the cuts or wounds then you should immediately start treatment with your doctor. Early therapy can prevent the person from getting flesh eating disease. You need to thoroughly check your body for any swelling or infection on the cuts/wounds. This is more important for diabetic patients who may have lost the sensation of pain. Wash your hands properly before eating any food. Follow good hygiene to prevent any type of infection.
A person whose immunity is compromised should take due care to avoid any infection since it can become severe. They should avoid seafood and uncooked meat of any kind. If you have recently undergone any surgery follow the instructions of your doctor to prevent the site from getting infected. Though flesh eating disease is not contagious still you can avoid physical contact with people who are likely to get infected with wounds, cuts or abrasions.
Antibiotics are the best treatment for this disease and sometimes surgery has to be done for removing the infected part from the body. Fascial planes are connective tissues that envelop the nerves, muscles and blood vessels of our body. They are binding structures that facilitate flexible movement of the body and infection can occur on any part of the tissue.
Causes :
Flesh eating disease is caused by different types of bacteria. Predominantly streptococcus pyogenes is responsible for spreading infection on the tissues. In rare cases fungus can also cause this disease.
Type 1 infection is caused by polymicrobial bacteria and Type 2 by strep bacteria. In case gas is present in the infection Clostridium bacteria can also cause infection. In many cases non-anaerobic bacteria initially damages the tissue which leads to hypoxia (reduction of oxygen) which becomes easy base for the anaerobic bacteria to attack on them.
Symptoms :
Often, flesh eating disease or necrotizing fasciitis begins in the existing infection or wound in the body. It can be either in the hands or legs or even on the trunk. Some of the common kinds of infectious areas are wounds, cuts on the skin, surgical incisions or injury caused by insect bite etc. Once the bacteria enter into the spot it multiplies rapidly spreading the infection to the connective tissues of the organ. Now the infected area becomes swollen and red.
Some of the symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis are sharp pain, redness and swelling on the wound or site of infection accompanied by fever and chills. The skin may form ulcers or fluid filled blisters or black scabs or sometimes gas is formed inside the tissues. It may also cause oozing of yellowish pus like liquid from the infected wound. Depending on the type of bacteria the symptoms can be mild to severe. For some people, the infection begins on the deep facial planes of the connective tissue and for others it starts after minor skin injury like cuts or abrasions. In case the infection attacks the immune system the patient may develop liver problems like hepatitis or liver disease. In rare cases infants that are born prematurely are prone to develop this disease.
Risk Factors :
Any person who carries a wound or insect bite or injury on any part of the body is prone to further infection like necrotizing fasciitis. Infants, elderly people, people who are diabetic (for long periods) and people with weakened immunity disorders like cancer or AIDS and those who are undergoing chemotherapy are prone to get infection easily.
People who have undergone surgery recently particularly on their bones, joints or muscles are at high risk of getting infected. Do not delay the treatment if you suspect something is wrong since it can cause loss of organs or any other complication.
Diagnoses :
The doctor would initially examine the affected part of the body after collecting the medical history of the person. He would ask few questions about the injury or wound. Depending on the site of infection he may order for several tests. If a diabetic patient complains of intense pain with swelling and changes in skin color it can be due to Fournier’s gangrene. Once the doctor suspects an attack from bacteria he would promptly put the patient on antibiotics to prevent further complications.
Biopsy of the tissue (infected) is done for testing in the laboratory for detecting the type of organism. If the doctor suspects gas in the tissues then he may order for imaging tests like X-rays, CT or MRI scans to detect the extent of infection. In addition, complete blood test is done to detect WBC count and for studying the level of blood urea nitrogen.
Treatment :
Depending on the health condition of the patient, he will be hospitalized and put on IV fluids to start with antibiotic therapy. A combination of various antibiotics is normally used if the doctor suspects multiple bacterial infections. Report from the lab will help in detecting the type of bacteria that has caused infection and accordingly the antibiotics are administered.
Surgery :
Debridement of the tissue is done if the infection is deep. The risk of complications or death is reduced by early intervention of surgery to remove the dead tissues. If the patient is very sick and has developed organ failure or other complications he/she should be treated on emergency basis. The patient will be supplemented with breathing tube and given lot of drugs and antibiotics to prevent further growth of bacteria and death of tissues. Complete recovery of the patient depends on the organ/site infected and also on the intensity of the infection.
Prevention :
If you suspect any infection on the cuts or wounds then you should immediately start treatment with your doctor. Early therapy can prevent the person from getting flesh eating disease. You need to thoroughly check your body for any swelling or infection on the cuts/wounds. This is more important for diabetic patients who may have lost the sensation of pain. Wash your hands properly before eating any food. Follow good hygiene to prevent any type of infection.
A person whose immunity is compromised should take due care to avoid any infection since it can become severe. They should avoid seafood and uncooked meat of any kind. If you have recently undergone any surgery follow the instructions of your doctor to prevent the site from getting infected. Though flesh eating disease is not contagious still you can avoid physical contact with people who are likely to get infected with wounds, cuts or abrasions.
Hodgkins Disease
Hodgkins Disease Hodgkin’s disease is a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system where the cells in the immune system grow into abnormal size and spread to other organs. As the disease progresses it limits the function of immune system that fights it. Hodgkins lymphoma is one of the common types of lymphatic system cancer.
Symptoms :
Some of the symptoms of Hodgkin’s lymphoma include extreme fatigue, fever/chills, swelling of lymph nodes (more on the neck, groin and armpits), excess of sweat in nights, sudden weight loss (without any effort), irresistible cough, difficulty in breathing, loss of appetite and itching.
Causes :
The exact cause of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is not known. It is believed to be caused due to gene mutation. It can be due to B cell mutation which divides rapidly causing death of healthy cells. This results in the accumulation of excess of B cells in the body leading to swelling of lymph nodes and they become overcrowded thus blocking the activity of healthy cells.
Two major types of lymphoma are recognized.
Classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma :
Individuals with this type of lymphoma will have large sized abnormal cells in their body which are called Reed Stemberg cells.
Lymphocyte predominant lymphoma :
This is a rare type of Hodgkin’s lymphoma and the abnormally sized cells in this type resemble popcorns.
Who are at risk?
People who are in the age group of 20-35 and those who are above 55 years are prone to develop Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Individuals who are predisposition having parents or close relatives with this type of cancer are at increased risk of developing this disease. People with weak immunity and those who are infected with Epstein Barr virus are prone to get Hodgkin’s disease.
Tests :
Your doctor will look for the above symptoms after completing the physical examination. He checks for the presence of swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits. He would order for blood profile, imaging tests like X-rays, CT or MRI scanning, and sometimes even a biopsy. For some people, small tissue is removed from the bone marrow to test for cancer.
Stages :
Hodgkin’s lymphoma is divided into 4 stages and it is essential for your doctor to determine the right stage before starting any treatment.
First stage: In this stage the cancer is only on a single lymph node affecting only one organ
Second stage: In this stage, at least two lymph nodes are affected. Here the cancer cells are still limited to only particular organ or portion of the body.
Third stage: At this stage, the cancerous cells will multiply spreading to other lymph nodes of the body both below and above the diaphragm. Some portion of the spleen can be affected with cancer cells at this stage.
Fourth stage: This is the most advanced stage in which cancerous cells are found in almost all the organs and tissues. By now the lymphoma has advanced to all the lymph nodes and many parts of the body.
Treatment :
Depending on the stage of the cancer, your age, health condition and diagnoses treatment is given. The ultimate aim of the treatment is to kill the entire cancer cells and to control the symptoms.
Chemotherapy :
Here medications are administered for destroying lymphoma cells. It is either given in the form of infection or pills which travels into the bloodstream so that it can be easily accessed by all parts of the body. Often, radiation therapy is also combined with chemotherapy for treating Hodgkin’s lymphoma. There can be many side effects of chemotherapy drugs like hair loss, nausea and constipation.
Radiation :
It is another effective therapy in which high powered beams of light are sent directly into the affected portion to kill cancerous cells. Individuals who are on first or second stage will be benefited by radiation method. This method can cause hair loss and redness or scarring of the skin.
Stem cell Transplant :
Transplantation of stem cells is done to replace the infected bone marrow. Healthy stem cells are taken from your blood and injected into the body after destroying cancerous cells by radiation or chemotherapy. Stem cells will eventually help in building healthy cells.
Coping :
You need to be well informed about the lymphoma and its consequences. Get help from support groups so that you will understand that you are not alone. You can set rational goals that can be reached easily. Eat healthy balanced diet and do regular exercises. Be active and socialize well to expand your activities.
Symptoms :
Some of the symptoms of Hodgkin’s lymphoma include extreme fatigue, fever/chills, swelling of lymph nodes (more on the neck, groin and armpits), excess of sweat in nights, sudden weight loss (without any effort), irresistible cough, difficulty in breathing, loss of appetite and itching.
Causes :
The exact cause of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is not known. It is believed to be caused due to gene mutation. It can be due to B cell mutation which divides rapidly causing death of healthy cells. This results in the accumulation of excess of B cells in the body leading to swelling of lymph nodes and they become overcrowded thus blocking the activity of healthy cells.
Two major types of lymphoma are recognized.
Classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma :
Individuals with this type of lymphoma will have large sized abnormal cells in their body which are called Reed Stemberg cells.
Lymphocyte predominant lymphoma :
This is a rare type of Hodgkin’s lymphoma and the abnormally sized cells in this type resemble popcorns.
Who are at risk?
People who are in the age group of 20-35 and those who are above 55 years are prone to develop Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Individuals who are predisposition having parents or close relatives with this type of cancer are at increased risk of developing this disease. People with weak immunity and those who are infected with Epstein Barr virus are prone to get Hodgkin’s disease.
Tests :
Your doctor will look for the above symptoms after completing the physical examination. He checks for the presence of swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits. He would order for blood profile, imaging tests like X-rays, CT or MRI scanning, and sometimes even a biopsy. For some people, small tissue is removed from the bone marrow to test for cancer.
Stages :
Hodgkin’s lymphoma is divided into 4 stages and it is essential for your doctor to determine the right stage before starting any treatment.
First stage: In this stage the cancer is only on a single lymph node affecting only one organ
Second stage: In this stage, at least two lymph nodes are affected. Here the cancer cells are still limited to only particular organ or portion of the body.
Third stage: At this stage, the cancerous cells will multiply spreading to other lymph nodes of the body both below and above the diaphragm. Some portion of the spleen can be affected with cancer cells at this stage.
Fourth stage: This is the most advanced stage in which cancerous cells are found in almost all the organs and tissues. By now the lymphoma has advanced to all the lymph nodes and many parts of the body.
Treatment :
Depending on the stage of the cancer, your age, health condition and diagnoses treatment is given. The ultimate aim of the treatment is to kill the entire cancer cells and to control the symptoms.
Chemotherapy :
Here medications are administered for destroying lymphoma cells. It is either given in the form of infection or pills which travels into the bloodstream so that it can be easily accessed by all parts of the body. Often, radiation therapy is also combined with chemotherapy for treating Hodgkin’s lymphoma. There can be many side effects of chemotherapy drugs like hair loss, nausea and constipation.
Radiation :
It is another effective therapy in which high powered beams of light are sent directly into the affected portion to kill cancerous cells. Individuals who are on first or second stage will be benefited by radiation method. This method can cause hair loss and redness or scarring of the skin.
Stem cell Transplant :
Transplantation of stem cells is done to replace the infected bone marrow. Healthy stem cells are taken from your blood and injected into the body after destroying cancerous cells by radiation or chemotherapy. Stem cells will eventually help in building healthy cells.
Coping :
You need to be well informed about the lymphoma and its consequences. Get help from support groups so that you will understand that you are not alone. You can set rational goals that can be reached easily. Eat healthy balanced diet and do regular exercises. Be active and socialize well to expand your activities.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)