Cervical cancer is a malignant condition that develops in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It most commonly arises from long-term infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Cervical cancer usually develops slowly, beginning with precancerous changes that can be detected through screening. Early detection and treatment significantly improve …

Carcinoid tumors are a type of slow-growing neuroendocrine tumor that arise from hormone-producing cells of the neuroendocrine system. They most commonly develop in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the small intestine, appendix, and rectum, as well as in the lungs. These tumors may remain asymptomatic for years and are often discovered incidentally. Some carcinoid tumors produce hormones and chemical substances that …

C. difficile infection, also known as Clostridioides difficile infection or CDI, is a bacterial infection that affects the colon. It commonly develops after the use of antibiotics that disrupt the normal balance of gut bacteria. When this balance is altered, C. difficile can grow excessively and produce toxins that cause inflammation of the colon. The condition can range from mild …

Knee bursitis is a painful condition that occurs when one of the bursae around the knee becomes inflamed. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Knee bursitis commonly develops due to repetitive pressure, prolonged kneeling, injury, or infection, and it can affect people of all ages. Symptoms Symptoms of knee bursitis depend on which …

Bursitis is a condition caused by inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Bursae help reduce friction during movement. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain and restricted movement. Bursitis most commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and heels and can be acute or chronic. …

Meralgia paresthetica is a neurological condition caused by compression or irritation of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, which supplies sensation to the outer thigh. This condition affects sensation only and does not involve muscle weakness. It commonly results in pain, burning, tingling, or numbness along the outer part of the thigh. Meralgia paresthetica is usually not serious but can be …

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. This causes the big toe to lean toward the other toes, leading to a visible protrusion on the side of the foot. Bunions develop gradually and can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes. They are common in adults and tend to …

Bundle branch block is a heart condition in which there is a delay or blockage along the electrical pathways that help control the heartbeat. These pathways, called bundle branches, carry electrical impulses to the left and right sides of the heart’s lower chambers. When a bundle branch block occurs, the heart may beat out of sync, which can affect how …

Bullous pemphigoid is a rare autoimmune skin disorder that causes large, fluid-filled blisters to form on the skin. It most commonly affects older adults and usually develops gradually. The condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the layers of skin, leading to inflammation and blister formation. Bullous pemphigoid is not contagious and can often be managed effectively with medical …

Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by repeated episodes of binge eating followed by behaviors intended to prevent weight gain. These behaviors may include self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, or excessive exercise. People with bulimia often feel a loss of control during binge episodes and experience intense concern about body weight and shape. The condition …