Bøger udgivet af Foster Academics

The surgical field of medicine concerned with the conditions associated with the musculoskeletal system is known as orthopedic surgery. The human musculoskeletal system consists of the bones of the skeleton, joints, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, muscles, etc. It gives humans the ability to move as it is a system which provides form, movement, support and stability to the body. Foot and ankle surgery is a sub-field of orthopedic surgery. It deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disorders related to the foot and ankle. Ankle arthroscopy, laser surgery and amputation are some of the common surgical methods to treat foot and ankle disorders. This book attempts to understand the multiple branches that fall under the discipline of orthopedic surgery and how such concepts have practical applications. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to orthopedic surgery. Doctors and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

Any disorder that affects the joints is called arthritis. There are over 100 different types of arthritis. Some common forms are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, etc. The most common feature of all kinds of arthritis is pain. Joint stiffness, swelling and aching around the joints are other common symptoms. Decreased mobility combined with other symptoms, cause individuals to become obese and vulnerable to heart disease. Clinical examinations, X-rays and blood tests are performed for making a diagnosis. Based on the diagnosis of the arthritis, a treatment strategy is formed which may involve physical therapy, orthopedic bracing and medications. In eroding forms of arthritis, joint replacement surgery may be required. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relief medications offer a degree of relief to patients with arthritis. Exercises aimed at improving muscle strength, flexibility and endurance can be more effective than medications. The objective of this book is to give a general view of the different types of arthritis and their management strategies. It strives to provide a fair idea about this condition and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in this domain. This book on arthritis is a collective contribution of a renowned group of international experts.

The branch of surgery which deals with the conditions involving the musculoskeletal system is known as orthopedic surgery. Some of the medical conditions in which an orthopedic surgery is useful include spine diseases, infections, sports injuries, musculoskeletal traumas, tumors and degenerative diseases. Arthroscopy, meniscectomy, knee replacement, hip replacement, laminectomy and low back intervertebral disc surgery are some of the common surgical procedures performed by orthopedic surgeons. A minimally invasive surgical process in which an examination or treatment of damage is performed using an endoscope is called arthroscopy. The endoscope is inserted into the joint through a joint incision. The topics included in this book on orthopedic surgery are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Medical conditions in which there are partial or complete breaks in the continuity of the bones are known as bone fractures. They are usually caused by force impact, trauma injury, and some medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, osteogenesis imperfect, etc. As there is an absence of nociceptors in the bone tissue, so there are no specific symptoms associated with bone fractures. However, bone fractures can be extremely painful in some cases. Tests like, radiographic imaging, computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are some of the most common tests to diagnose bone fractures. The book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of bone fracture and the recent researches in the field of orthopedics. From theories to research, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance of this area of study have been included in this book. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students, doctors and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.

The muscles, joints, nerves, tendons, ligaments and the structures supporting the back, neck and limbs together comprise the human musculoskeletal system. The pain, injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system are called musculoskeletal disorders. Such disorders usually arise from sudden exertion, repetitive strain or repeated exposure to force. Carpal tunnel syndrome, hand-arm vibration syndrome, tendinitis, epicondylitis and tension neck syndrome are some of the common examples of musculoskeletal disorders. X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to diagnose musculoskeletal disorders. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of musculoskeletal disorders. It consists of contributions made by international experts. For all those who are interested in musculoskeletal disorders, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

The branch of surgery which deals with the conditions associated with the musculoskeletal system is known as orthopedics. Doctors who have specialized in this field are called orthopedic surgeons. In order to treat disorders like musculoskeletal trauma, sports injuries, congenital disorders, spine disorders and infections related to the musculoskeletal system, orthopedic surgeons use both surgical as well as nonsurgical methods. Pediatric orthopedics, total joint reconstruction, spine surgery, orthopedic trauma, foot and ankle surgery, and musculoskeletal oncology are some of the sub-fields which fall under the scope of orthopedics. Two of the most common procedures performed by orthopedic surgeons are arthroscopy and arthroplasty. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of orthopedics. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on orthopedics have been included herein. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in this area at various levels.

Osteoarthritis is a joint disorder. It results from the breakdown of underlying bone and joint cartilage. Stiffness, joint pain, joint swelling and weakness in the arms and legs are some of its common symptoms. Sometimes, a person may also experience joint locking and joint instability. Joint injury and abnormal joint development are the main causes of osteoarthritis. X-rays are effective in diagnosing osteoarthritis. Changes in joints, like joint space narrowing, osteophytes and subchondral sclerosis can be detected easily through X-rays. Exercise and analgesics are the most effective strategies to relieve the pain caused by osteoarthritis. Other treatment methods include physical therapy, manual therapy, use of knee braces, joint injection, osteotomy, arthroscopic surgery and joint replacement surgery. The topics included in this book on osteoarthritis are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It aims to elucidate the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis. This book is an essential guide for clinicians, doctors and medical students.

All disorders related to the functioning of the joints are categorised as arthritis. The common symptoms of arthritis include reduced motion, joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and redness. Ankylosing spondylitis is one of the most common types of arthritis. It involves the long term inflammation of the joints of the spine, pelvis, shoulder, and hips. Back pain, stiffness in the affected area, eye and bowel problems are some of the common symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Medical imaging and blood tests are two of the common ways of diagnosis. Arthritis treatment methods include the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), pain replacements and anti-inflammatory drugs, joint replacements, etc. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to arthritis care and management. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to arthritis. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

A cataract surgery is a kind of surgery which involves the removal of the natural lens of the eye, which has developed an opacification. It is replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). Two of the most common cataract surgery procedures include phacoemulsification (phaco) and extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE). A machine having an ultrasonic handpiece equipped with a titanium or steel tip is used while performing phacoemulsification. In the process of extracapsular cataract extraction, almost the entire natural lens is removed but the elastic lens capsule is left intact to allow the implantation of an intraocular lens. The ever growing need of advanced technology is the reason that has fueled the research in the field of cataract surgery in recent times. This book explores all the important aspects of cataract surgery in the present day scenario. Doctors, ophthalmologists, researchers and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the clinical condition, which results in blurred vision or vision loss at the center of the visual field, due to a damage to the macula. Such a loss of central vision can make it difficult to recognize faces, read, drive or perform activities of daily life. Visual hallucinations are also common in people with this condition. It typically occurs in older people, but may be prevented by exercising and adhering to a good diet. Depending on the severity of AMD, it can be early, intermediate and late AMD. The diagnosis of AMD is through an eye examination. There is no treatment for vision loss but the management strategy strives to slow down the progression of AMD, by removing risk factors. This happens through mineral and antioxidant supplementation, and vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, among others. This book contains some path-breaking studies in age-related macular degeneration. It unfolds the innovative aspects in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. This book will help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this field. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about this medical condition.

Glaucoma is a set of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve and leads to a loss of vision. It is characterized by high intraocular pressure (IOP). Some types of glaucoma are open-angle glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma. It is caused by a variety of factors such as diet, genetics, ethnicity, etc. If untreated, it can result in blindness, which cannot be reversed. Its symptoms include blurred vision, redness of the eye, mid-dilated pupil, severe eye pain and nausea. The screening for glaucoma is performed by a standard eye examination or by techniques like tonometry, gonioscopy, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, optical coherence tomography, etc. The mainstay of glaucoma treatment is lowering IOP through various pharmaceutical and surgical interventions. The objective of this book is to give a general view of the different causes, symptoms and treatment methodologies of glaucoma. From theories to research to practical applications, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this field have been included in this book. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students.

Ophthalmology is the study of medicine which deals with the structure and the functioning of the eye along with its diseases. This field also encompasses the treatment of eye diseases with the strategic use of medications, laser therapy and surgery. Eye diseases are diagnosed through eye examinations and specialized tests such as ultrasonography, fluorescein angiography, etc. Cataract and macular degeneration are two common eyes diseases. The clouding of the eye lens which results in decreased eye vision is known as cataract. Some of its symptoms include blurred vision, faded colours, trouble with bright lights, etc. Macular degeneration is an eye disorder in which the vision in the center of the visual field gets blurred or lost due to age. Ophthalmology is an upcoming field of medicine that has undergone rapid development over the past few decades. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of ophthalmology. It will help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this field.

Skin cancers are the cancers arising from the skin, caused due to an abnormal development of cells, which invade and spread to other parts of the body. These are of three main types, squamous-cell skin cancer, basal-cell skin cancer and melanoma. Melanomas are aggressive cancers. Symptoms vary as per the underlying cancer and may include a painless raised area of skin, a color or shape change in a mole, etc. More than 90% of all cases of skin cancer are caused due to an exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Its diagnosis is done based on a histopathological examination and through a biopsy. The treatment of skin cancer is designed based on the location of the cancer, the type of cancer and the age of the person. Whether the cancer is primary or a recurrence also determines the treatment modality. Radiation therapy, topical chemotherapy, cryotherapy, surgery and immunotherapy may be used for the management of skin cancer. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of skin cancer. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied diagnostic and management strategies of skin cancer. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this area.

Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer, affecting 12% of women worldwide. Some of the risk factors contributing to the incidence of this disease are obesity, alcohol consumption, hormone replacement therapy, lack of physical exercise, etc. Between 5-10% of breast cancer cases are attributed to genetics. Breast cancers are easy to diagnose through a biopsy or a microscopic analysis of the affected area of the breast. Its treatment can be a multidisciplinary procedure involving surgical and non-surgical modalities. The tumor is removed surgically along with the surrounding tissue, and one or more lymph nodes may also be biopsied. For someone with high risk factors, medications such as raloxifene or tamoxifen may be used to prevent this disease. The topics covered in this extensive book deal with the clinical aspects of breast cancer. The aim of this book is to present researches that have transformed this domain and aided its treatment and management. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about breast cancer.

The prostate is an endocrine gland of the male reproductive system, which secretes the alkaline fluid component of semen. The cancer which develops in the prostate is known as prostate cancer. In the initial stage, it may not cause any symptom, but it can cause several complications in the later stage. Some of the common symptoms include problems associated with urination, like frequent urination, nocturia, hematuria and dysuria. It may also cause problems associated with sexual organs, such as painful ejaculation and difficulty in achieving erection. Ultrasound, digital rectal examination (DRE), cystoscopy, transrectal ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are some of the common diagnostic methods useful in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Treatment methods include radiation therapy and radical prostatectomy. Prostate cancer research is an upcoming field of medical research that has undergone rapid development over the past few decades. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Neurodevelopmental disorder is a disorder of brain function, which impairs memory, learning ability, self-control and emotion. It includes autism spectrum disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, tic disorders, several motor disorders and genetic disorders, etc. There can be several factors that can cause neurodevelopmental disorders, such as diseases, nutritional factors, deprivation from social and emotional care, physical trauma, etc. Chromosome microarray analysis, which detects chromosomal abnormalities, is the first line genomic test for the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders. Many of these disorders do not have a viable line of treatment. Their management includes behavioral treatments, psychosocial treatments, cognitive-behavioral treatments, occupational therapy, psychomotor therapy, etc. as interventions to assist people. This book unravels the recent studies in the area of neurodevelopmental disorders. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Gynecological oncology is a specialized field of medicine, which is concerned with the study, diagnosis and management of cancers of the female reproductive system. Some gynecological cancers are ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, cervical cancer, vaginal cancer and vulvar cancer. Gynecologic ultrasonography, gynoroentgenology and speculoscopy are certain imaging techniques used for detecting gynecological malignancies. Many gynecological malignancies are treated surgically, such as cervical, uterine, ovarian or endometrium tumors and uterine fibroids. Oophorectomy or the surgical removal of the ovaries is frequently combined with hysterectomy to decrease the risk of ovarian cancer or as a therapeutic strategy to treat cancer. In gynecological oncology, the surgical removal of the uterine cervix or cervicectomy is performed as a surgical alternative to radical hysterectomy to treat younger women with cervical cancer. To manage necrosis of the clitoris or remove malignancy of the clitoris, a clitoridectomy is performed. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in gynecological oncology. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. Those with an interest in gynecological cancers would find this book helpful.

The field of neurogenetics explores the role of genetics in neurological disorders. Any structural, electrical and biochemical abnormality in the brain, spinal cord or other nerves can be termed as a neurological disorder. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease are a subset of neurological disorders. While the genetic influence on simple neurological diseases have been established, the genetics of complex disorders is a matter of significant research. Using genome wide association studies, the genetic variability within the human population and the associated link with diseases can be investigated. Research in neurogenetics strives to find strategies to reverse the progression of neurodegenerative disorders, which till date have no viable cure. The aim of this book is to present researches pertaining to the genetics of neurological disorders that can advance the understanding of neurological diseases and aid in their clinical management. It presents this complex study in the most comprehensible language. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Disorders of movement are the clinical conditions characterized by insufficient voluntary and involuntary movements or excess of movement. These are conventionally divided into hyperkinetic and hypokinetic movement disorders. Hyperkinetic movement disorders refer to dyskinesia, or repetitive, excessive involuntary movements, which intrude with the normal flow of motor activity. Some of such disorders are dystonia, spasmodic torticollis, blepharospasm, myoclonus, etc. Hypokinetic movement disorders may refer to hypokinesia, akinesia, bradykinesia and rigidity. Examples include primary or idiopathic parkinsonism, striatonigral degeneration, Hallevorden-Spatz disease, etc. The first step in the management of such disorders is making a differential diagnosis of the disorder and then confirming the diagnosis through metabolic screening, CSF examinations and neurophysiological and pharmacological tests. Treatment of each disorder is different and depends on the diagnosis. The objective of this book is to give a general view of the different disorders of movement along with their diagnoses. It elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to the management of movement disorders. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a noninvasive electrophysiological monitoring tool that is used for recording electrical activity of the brain. It measures voltage fluctuations arising in the brain due to the ionic currents flowing through the neurons of the brain. EEG is often used for diagnosing epilepsy, depth of anesthesia, coma, sleeping disorders, encephalopathies and brain death. EEGs are primarily used for epilepsy monitoring in order to distinguish epileptic seizures from psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, sub-cortical movement disorders, etc. It is also used to characterize seizures and localize the area of the brain where a seizure originates. This book elucidates new techniques and applications of electroencephalography in a multidisciplinary manner. It strives to provide a fair idea about EEG and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in this technology. It is a vital tool for all researching or studying neuroscience and neurology as it gives incredible insights into emerging trends and concepts.

The part of the nervous system which includes the brain and the spinal cord is known as central nervous system (CNS). It is a system responsible for integrating the received information, coordinating it, and influencing the activities of all body parts. In humans, the skull protects the brain, whereas the spinal cord is protected by the vertebrae. The brain and the spinal cord are enclosed in membranes, called meninges. The neuroglial cells are responsible for supporting the interneuronal space in the central nervous system. Neurological imaging of the brain is useful in diagnosing brain disorders. This book provides significant information about the central nervous system to help develop a good understanding of its development and maintenance. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of central nervous system and the recent researches related to it. This book is a collective contribution of a renowned group of international experts.

Sleep medicine is a field of medicine that deals with sleep disorders, their diagnosis and management. Sleep medicine requires a specialist to treat a diverse plethora of disorders, such as Kleine-Levin syndrome, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, circadian rhythm disturbances, etc. Sleep disorders are divided into three main groups, primary sleep disorders, those associated with substance abuse or a medical condition and those that are secondary to mental disorders. A thorough medical history check, previous medication review, evaluation of the patient's Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), polysomnography, a multiple sleep latency test, etc. are used for diagnosing sleep disorders. Practitioners of sleep medicine seek to address both the underlying cause of the disorder and the sleep problem itself. Various methodologies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, patient education about sleep hygiene, etc. are used for the management of sleep disorders. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of sleep medicine. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of sleep medicine and the recent researches in this field. For all those who are interested in this field, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

Parkinson's disease affects the central nervous system, thus impacting vital motor skills. The most common symptoms are motor related. Rigidity, tremor, postural instability and slowness of movement are common signs of the disease. Other recognized symptoms are related to gait and posture disturbances such as festination, freezing of gait, mask-like facial expression, a slurred monotonous quiet voice, etc. Cognitive deficits can also occur. These include executive dysfunction, problems with abstract thinking, lack of cognitive flexibility, attention deficit, uninhibited action, etc. The primary pathological mechanism of Parkinson's disease is cell death in the brain's basal ganglia. The chief line of defense against the deterioration of motor functions due to Parkinson's disease is a set of drugs comprising of levodopa, MAO-B inhibitors and dopamine agonists. Surgery, subcutaneous waking day apomorphine infusion, deep brain stimulation and enteral dopa pumps may also be used after the body stops reacting to medications. This book contains some path-breaking studies in Parkinson's disease. It explores the fundamental as well as the modern understanding of the symptoms, pathophysiology and treatment of Parkinson's disease. This book is a collective contribution of a renowned group of international experts. It is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this disease.

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting the central nervous system, with gradually deteriorating motor abilities. After Alzheimer's disease, it is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Hallucinations or delusions occur in 50% of the cases with Parkinson's disease, and may indicate the start of dementia. There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but various treatment pathways aimed at providing relief such as surgery, physical treatment and medications are available to improve quality of life. Typically, antiparkinson medications such as levodopa with dopamine agonists are prescribed for patients in the initial stages of the disease. Lesional and deep brain stimulation surgery is performed on those for whom medications fail. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around Parkinson's disease. Its objective is to give a general view of the different clinical aspects of this disease. A number of latest researches have been included in this book to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study.

Behavioral neurology is a specialization of neurology, which is concerned with the study of the impact of neurological diseases and damage on cognitive function, behavior and memory. It also deals with the treatment of all such damages and conditions. Some of the diseases and disorders under study in behavioral neurology are amnesia, aprosodia, autism, dementia, apraxia, psychosis, traumatic brain injury, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, etc. In vivo neuroimaging techniques are widely used for the understanding of structural and functional correlations of brain lesions with behavioral dysfunction in individuals. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of behavioral neurology. It presents this complex subject in the most comprehensible language. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system which integrates anatomy, physiology, developmental biology, molecular biology, psychology, mathematical modeling and cytology to understand the functioning of neurons and neural circuits. Such investigations are furthered by cellular and molecular studies of individual neurons, and imaging of sensory motor tasks occurring in the brain. Progress in the fields of electrophysiology, molecular biology and computational neuroscience have advanced the frontiers of neuroscience. Such studies are particularly significant in the medical sciences such as psychosurgery, neurology, neurosurgery, neuropathology, etc. as they allow the diseases of the nervous system to be directly addressed. Psychiatry focuses on the management of behavioral, cognitive, affective and perceptual disorders, while neurology focuses on the conditions of the central and peripheral nervous systems. This book contains some path-breaking studies in the field of neuroscience. It unravels the recent studies in brain exploration. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Neuroscience is a multidisciplinary branch of biology that is concerned with the scientific study of the nervous system. It integrates principles of molecular biology, anatomy, developmental biology, cytology, physiology, etc. to develop an understanding of neurons and neural circuits. At the cognitive level, the understanding of psychological functions and their production by neural circuitry is addressed from the branch of cognitive neuroscience. Neuroimaging techniques like PET, SPECT, fMRI scans etc., human genetic analysis and electrophysiology are combined with advanced sophisticated experimental techniques to provide insights into human cognition and emotion. The complex questions pertaining to the interactions of the brain with its environment are dealt through an integration with social and behavioral sciences. The developmental, physiological and genetic mechanisms of behavior are studied in behavioral neuroscience. Research in behavioral neuroscience investigates changes relative to increase or decrease of neural function and enhanced neural activity. This can be measured using electroencephalography, fMRI, PET, various optical techniques, etc. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around behavioral and cognitive neuroscience. It presents these complex subjects in the most comprehensible language. Researchers and students in these fields will be assisted by this book.

Nephrology is the study of the kidney function and the diseases associated with them. It also involves the diagnosis, prevention and the treatment of kidney diseases. The assessment of the blood pressure and the condition of the heart, lungs, abdomen and joints is required for diagnosing kidney diseases. Examination of the urine is the most common and direct way to assess kidney problems. In some cases, blood tests for checking the concentration of hemoglobin, platelets, calcium, urea or creatinine in the blood are also used to assess kidney problems. Imaging techniques like ultrasonography, computed axial tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are also used to diagnose the structural abnormalities in the kidneys. The various advancements in nephrology are glanced at in this book and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on nephrology have also been included in it. This book is an essential guide for both academicians and those who wish to pursue this discipline further.

Nephrology is a branch of medicine. It studies the functioning of kidneys and their diseases. Some common kidney diseases are kidney stones, acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease. Kidney stones are the solid pieces of material in the urinary tract. They can cause blockage of the ureter which may result in severe pain in the back and abdomen. Acute renal failure is associated with sudden kidney failure or kidney damage that develops within a few hours or a few days. Chronic kidney disease is an illness in which the loss of kidney functioning occurs gradually over a few months or years. This book traces the progress of the field of nephrology and highlights some of its key aspects. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects and the recent researches in this field. For all those who are interested in nephrology, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

Internal medicine is a medical specialty, which deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases in adults. Specialists in this field are involved in the management of complex multisystem disease conditions, such as weight loss, chest pain, dyspnoea, fatigue, etc. as well as multiple chronic diseases or comorbidities. Some of the subspecialties in this field are allergy, asthma and immunology, endocrinology, hematology, gastroenterology, rheumatology, etc. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the current practices and procedures of internal medicine. The aim of this book is to present the new researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. It is a vital tool for all researching or studying internal medicine as it gives incredible insights into emerging trends and concepts.