Chordoma is a rare type of cancer that develops from remnants of the notochord, a structure present during early fetal development that helps form the spine. These tumors typically grow slowly but are locally aggressive and most often occur at the base of the skull (clivus) or in the spine, particularly the sacrum. Although chordomas grow gradually, they can cause …

Chondrosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that develops in cartilage cells, the connective tissue that cushions the ends of bones. It most commonly affects the pelvis, hips, shoulders, ribs, and long bones such as the femur or humerus. Chondrosarcoma typically grows slowly but can be aggressive in higher-grade forms. It mainly occurs in adults and is less responsive to …

Cholestasis of pregnancy, also known as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, is a liver condition that occurs during pregnancy, typically in the third trimester. It is characterized by a reduction or stoppage of bile flow from the liver, leading to a buildup of bile acids in the bloodstream. While the condition usually resolves after delivery, it can pose risks to the …

Cholera is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It primarily affects the small intestine and leads to severe watery diarrhea and dehydration. Cholera is usually transmitted through contaminated water or food and is most common in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water. If not treated promptly, cholera can be life-threatening, but …

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile used for digestion. The condition most commonly occurs when gallstones block the cystic duct, causing bile to build up and irritate the gallbladder lining. Cholecystitis can be acute, developing suddenly, or chronic, resulting from repeated episodes of inflammation. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important …

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a disease of the bile ducts. It causes chronic inflammation in your bile ducts (cholangitis), which eventually causes scarring (sclerosis). Scar tissue in your bile ducts causes them to narrow, which restricts the flow of bile through the ducts (biliary stricture). When bile can’t flow, it backs up into your liver, where it came from. This does …

Chlamydia trachomatis is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide and often affects the genital tract, rectum, and eyes. Many infected individuals do not experience noticeable symptoms, which allows the infection to persist and spread unknowingly. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious reproductive and systemic …

Childhood obesity is a medical condition in which a child has excess body fat that negatively affects their health and well-being. It is typically identified when a child’s body mass index (BMI) is significantly higher than what is considered healthy for their age and sex. Childhood obesity has become increasingly common worldwide and is associated with both immediate and long-term …

Child abuse refers to any action or lack of action by a parent, caregiver, or other responsible adult that causes harm, potential harm, or threat of harm to a child. It can affect a child’s physical health, emotional well-being, development, and safety. Child abuse may occur in homes, schools, institutions, or communities and can have lifelong consequences if not identified …

Chilblains, also known as pernio, are small, inflamed areas of skin that develop after exposure to cold, damp conditions. They occur due to an abnormal reaction of small blood vessels in the skin when exposed to cold temperatures and then rewarmed too quickly. Chilblains are not caused by freezing but can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. They most commonly affect …