Introduction Sarcoidosis is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease that can affect multiple organs in the body, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. It is characterized by the formation of small clusters of inflammatory cells called granulomas. These granulomas can…
Introduction Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the respiratory tract, especially in infants and young children. While RSV usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, it can lead to more serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly…
Introduction Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammation of the pleura, which are the two large, thin layers of tissue that separate the lungs from the chest wall. These layers are normally smooth and lubricated, allowing the lungs to…
Introduction Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing symptoms such as cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can range from mild…
Introduction Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory infection that affects the small airways (bronchioles) in the lungs, primarily in infants and young children under two years of age. It is often referred to as obstructive bronchitis in this age group due…
Introduction Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. The condition can be either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection and resolves within…
Introduction Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by infection with Legionella bacteria. The illness is named after an outbreak at an American Legion convention in 1976, but cases now occur worldwide. Legionnaires’ disease most commonly affects older…
Introduction Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Unlike hepatitis A, hepatitis B can become chronic, leading to long-term liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. Hepatitis B is spread through contact with…
Introduction Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is usually a short-term illness that does not lead to chronic liver disease, but it can cause significant discomfort and, in rare cases, severe…
Introduction Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Gallstones can range in size from tiny grains to large stones and…
