Trachoma is an eye disease caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. The infection can cause irreversible blindness. It’s an issue in poor and rural areas throughout the world with poorer hygiene, limited access to clean water and sanitation, and problems with crowding. How common is trachoma? In 2020, there were an estimated 32.8 million people in the world treated with antibiotics for trachoma, …
Trachoma
Diagnosis Trachoma can be diagnosed through a physical examination by your doctor. In some cases, a sample of bacteria from the eyes may be sent to a laboratory for testing. Lab tests may not always be available in areas where trachoma is common. Treatment Treatment for trachoma depends on the stage of the disease. MedicationsIn early stages, antibiotics alone may …
Toxoplasmosis
Diagnosis A diagnosis of toxoplasmosis is primarily based on blood tests. Laboratory tests detect two types of antibodies: • One antibody indicates a new and active infection with the parasite• The other antibody shows if you had an infection at any time in the past Depending on results, your healthcare provider may repeat the test after two weeks. Additional diagnostic …
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Diagnosis There is no single test for toxic shock syndrome. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history, and laboratory tests. Tests may include: • Blood and urine samples to check for staph or strep infection• Swabs from the vagina, cervix, or throat for laboratory analysis• Additional tests to assess organ function, which may include CT scans, lumbar puncture, or chest …
Tourette Syndrome
Diagnosis There is no specific test for Tourette syndrome. Diagnosis is based on the history of signs and symptoms. Criteria for diagnosing Tourette syndrome include: • Both motor tics and vocal tics are present, though not necessarily at the same time• Tics occur several times a day, nearly every day or intermittently, for more than a year• Tics begin before …
Tooth Abscess
Diagnosis To diagnose a dental abscess, your dentist will examine your tooth and surrounding area and may: • Tap on your teeth to check for sensitivity, as an abscessed tooth is usually painful to touch or pressure• Recommend an X-ray to identify the abscess and determine whether the infection has spread to other areas• Suggest a computerized tomography (CT) scan …
Tonsillitis
Diagnosis To diagnose tonsillitis, a healthcare professional typically begins with a physical exam. During the exam, they: • Use a lighted instrument to inspect the throat, ears, and nose• Check for a scarlatina rash, which may be linked to strep throat• Gently palpate the neck to assess for swollen glands• Listen to breathing with a stethoscope• Check the spleen for …
Tonsil Cancer
Diagnosis To diagnose tonsil cancer, a healthcare professional will typically begin with a close examination of your mouth and throat. Additional tests and procedures may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the cancer. Examining the throat and neckA healthcare professional may use a mirror or a small camera to inspect the mouth and throat. They …
Tongue Cancer
Diagnosis Tongue cancer is often first identified by a doctor, dentist, or other healthcare professional during a routine checkup. Several tests and procedures may be used to diagnose tongue cancer, depending on your medical history and symptoms. Testing may include: • Examining the mouth and throat: A physical exam checks for lumps on the tongue and swollen lymph nodes in …
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Diagnosis Trigeminal neuralgia is diagnosed primarily based on your description of the pain. Key factors include: • Type – Sudden, brief, electric shock-like pain.• Location – The areas of the face affected indicate which branch of the trigeminal nerve may be involved.• Triggers – Pain may be triggered by eating, talking, light facial touch, or even a cool breeze. Healthcare …