Bøger udgivet af Hayle Medical

The pancreas is an organ, which has both an endocrine and an exocrine function. It secretes several important hormones such as insulin, glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide and somatostatin. Also, it is responsible for the secretion of pancreatic juice, which contains digestive enzymes and bicarbonates for the break down of lipids, carbohydrates, proteins and the neutralization of the acid. A perforation of the pancreas may potentially lead to pancreatic self-digestion and damage to organs within the abdomen. Some of the pathological conditions of the pancreas include pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, etc. The surgical removal of the pancreas or part of it is known as pancreatectomy. It can be of several types such as distal pancreatectomy, pancreaticoduodenectomy, total pancreatectomy and segmental pancreatectomy. These procedures are performed for the management of pancreatic cancer, tumor and pancreatitis. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around pancreatic pathology. 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 help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this field.

Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the beta cells of the pancreatic islets, for the regulation of the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. When cells fail to respond to the secretion of the hormone insulin, a pathological condition known as insulin resistance arises. In this, the body's cells are resistant to insulin and therefore unable to use it efficiently. This leads to high blood sugar. To counter that, the beta cells increase insulin production, thereby increasing the blood insulin level. These factors combine to contribute to the incidence of Type 2 diabetes or latent autoimmune diabetes of adults. A high intake of carbohydrates and in particular fructose has been linked with insulin resistance. It may also develop in patients who have recently undergone bariatric or abdominal procedures. The primary treatment for this condition involves exercise and weight loss. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide a clinical perspective of insulin resistance. The various advancements in the understanding of insulin resistance are glanced at and their implications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. Students, researchers, experts and all associated with this area of research will benefit alike from this book.

Diabetes or diabetes mellitus is a group of disorders affecting the human body, characterized by high levels of blood sugar for long periods of time. If untreated, it can cause complications, which may be acute such as hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state or diabetic ketoacidosis, or serious long-term complications like chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, damage to the eyes, stroke, etc. Insulin is the hormone that is responsible for the uptake of glucose from blood and its transfer throughout the cells of the body. Any deficiency of insulin or any insensitivity of insulin receptors can cause diabetes mellitus. There is no known cure of this disease but it can be managed by regulating the blood sugar levels through regular exercise, weight loss, healthy diet and through the right use of medications, such as insulin injections and oral medications. Certain factors that tend to elevate the negative effects of diabetes such as elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, etc. need to be managed. Specialized footwear is used to prevent ulceration or re-ulceration. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of the pathophysiology and treatment of diabetes, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It is a resource guide for experts as well as students.

Metabolic syndrome is the combination of three or more medical conditions, including high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high serum triglycerides, central obesity and low serum high-density lipoprotein. This condition increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Nearly 20-25% of the world's adult population is afflicted by metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is an active area of medical research. The underlying cause is believed to be a disorder of energy storage and utilization. The commonly associated risk factors of metabolic disorders include sedentary behavior, genetics, diet, aging, etc. Recent research points to the contribution of prolonged chronic stress to metabolic syndrome. The objective of this book is to give a general view of the different aspects of metabolic syndrome. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on metabolic syndrome have been included herein. It is a vital tool for all researching or studying this disorder as it gives incredible insights into emerging trends and concepts.

The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland in the neck, which secretes thyroid hormones. These are responsible for protein synthesis and maintenance of the metabolic rate of the body. The thyroid is susceptible to a number of diseases. The conditions of the thyroid gland can be classified into five types- hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, structural abnormalities, benign or cancerous tumors and abnormal thyroid function without clinical symptoms. The gland can develop several nodules. Thyroid nodules may either be hyperplasia or a thyroid neoplasm. Goitres can be uninodular or multinodular or can be diffuse. For the diagnosis of thyroid diseases, the examination of the thyroid gland is crucial. This includes the search for abnormal masses and assessment of thyroid size. Systemic signs such as hair loss, weight gain or loss, swelling of the calves and protrusion of the eyes are some symptomatic signs of an underlying thyroid condition. Hypothyroidism affects around 3-10% adults, with women and the elderly being the most affected. It is estimated that one-third of the world's population has low iodine levels in diet, resulting in high prevalence of goiter. Depending on the diagnosis, medication, surgery and radioiodine therapy may be used for the treatment of thyroid disease. This book explores all the important aspects of thyroid disease in the present day scenario. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing the understanding of thyroid function and pathology are examined in detail. It is an essential guide for both academicians and those who wish to pursue the study of endocrine and metabolic disorders.

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by a body mass index (BMI) of over 30 kg/m2. In this condition, excess fat accumulates in the body over time until it starts having an overall adverse effect on the health. Apart from BMI, waist-hip ratio and cardiovascular risk factors are other markers used for evaluating an obese condition. Clinically, obesity may be categorized as class I, II and III, or severe, morbid or super obesity. The chief treatment for obesity consists of physical exercise and dieting. For short-term benefit, a low carbohydrate diet is considered beneficial while in the long term, all low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets are equally beneficial. Certain medications are also recommended for long-term use, such as lorcaserin, orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, liraglutide, etc. However, the associated side effects of such medicine are also quite significant. Bariatric surgery is considered an effective treatment for obesity and may include procedures such as laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, vertical-sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, etc. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to the evaluation and treatment of obesity. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

The pancreas is an important organ of the body, critical for digestion and endocrine function. Pancreatic surgery is performed either to address conditions causing inflammation such as pancreatitis or to treat tumors. Pancreatitis may either be acute or chronic, and may require surgery when pancreatic tissue atrophies or becomes infected. Pancreatic tumors can be benign or malignant. The surgical management of these typically involves removing the diseased section of the pancreas. The most common form of pancreatic surgery is Whipple surgery, which is done to remove cancerous tumors from the head of the pancreas. Pancreas transplantation may be performed in an insulin-dependent diabetic patient. After the successful completion of pancreatic surgery, post-surgical difficulties may arise which require careful monitoring by a health care team. This book provides comprehensive insights into the clinical principles and practices of pancreatic surgery. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. Scientists and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

Patients who require dedicated care and monitoring along with life-saving support are treated within the domain of intensive care medicine. It is a technologically advanced, expensive and resource-intensive area of medical care. A daily plan comprising of observation, intervention and impression with respect to the vital systems of a patient is implemented in an intensive care strategy. Such care is provided in critical care units. Some of the equipment used in such units are hemodynamic and cardiac monitoring systems, ventricular assist devices, intra-aortic balloon pumps, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuits, continuous renal replacement equipment, etc. Such equipment facilitate mechanical ventilation, hemofiltration, drug infusion and total parenteral nutrition, among others. Nutrition in the intensive care unit is another significant aspect of such care. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital principles and practices of intensive care. 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 includes contributions of experts and scientists, which will provide innovative insights into this field.

Critical and intensive care is concerned with the life support and monitoring provided to individuals with life-threatening conditions. Such care is particularly significant in patients with airway or respiratory compromise, instability, acute renal failure, multiple organ failure or potentially lethal cardiac arrhythmias. An important criterion for the facilitation of intensive care to patients is that the condition is potentially reversible and that the patient can survive. Critical care adopts a system-by-system approach to medicine with emphasis on the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, hematology, respiratory system, endocrine system, gastro-intestinal tract, renal system, etc. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the practice of critical and intensive care. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on critical care medicine have been included in this book. For all those who are interested in critical and intensive care medicine and nursing, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

The disorders of the endocrine system are known as endocrine disorders. Major endocrine glands are the pineal and the pituitary glands, the thymus, thyroid gland, adrenal gland, the pancreas and the ovary and the testes. Endocrine disorders include endocrine gland hypersecretion that leads to excessive hormone production, endocrine gland hyposecretion which leads to hormone deficit, and benign or malignant tumors of the endocrine glands. When abnormal chemical reactions occur in the body and alters the normal metabolic process of the body, it results in a metabolic disorder. It is an inherited genetic condition that creates an enzyme deficiency. The symptoms of metabolic disorders can be categorized as acute, progressive general, late-onset acute and permanent. Some common symptoms are weight loss, lethargy, seizures and jaundice. This book contains some path-breaking studies related to endocrine and metabolic disorders. It unravels the recent studies in the diagnosis, prevention and management of these disorders. For all readers who are interested in these domains, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.

The condition in which high blood sugar levels persist over prolonged periods of time in the human body is known as diabetes or diabetes mellitus (DM). Some of its symptoms are increased thirst and hunger, unintended weight loss and frequent urination. These symptoms may vary for Type 1 and Type 2 DM. Headache, blurred vision, fatigue and itchy skin may also occur. Diabetic emergencies can arise in cases of severe drops in blood sugar levels, diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. DM can also result in long-term complications, such as damage to the eyes, nerves and kidneys, diabetes-related foot problems, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, etc. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from basic science to clinical practice in the field of diabetes. From theories to research, case studies related to all medical aspects of relevance have been included herein. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.

In healthcare, an important treatment for patients with severe life-threatening conditions and injuries is provided by critical and intensive care units. A combination of close monitoring, constant care, life support using specialized equipment, and specific medications help to ensure health and normal bodily functions. Patients are generally treated for trauma, sepsis, multiple organ failure and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Patients who have undergone highly invasive surgical procedures and are at risk of complications, or patients with rapidly deteriorating health conditions are eligible for critical care. Dedicated nursing is integral to critical care. Performing assessment of critical conditions, operating and maintaining life support systems, providing intensive therapy and medications, ensuring adequate tissue and organ perfusion are crucial aspects of critical care nursing. This book brings forth some of the most innovative practices and elucidates the unexplored aspects of critical care. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing technologies and evolution of this field are examined in detail. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

Critical care medicine is a branch of medicine that is concerned with the diagnosis and management of critical health issues, which may require advanced life support and dedicated monitoring. The ultimate goal of life support is to sustain life, while the underlying diseases or injury is being evaluated or treated. Some of the diverse therapies and techniques involved in the care of patients in intensive care are mechanical ventilation, defibrillation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, dialysis, total parenteral nutrition, etc. The care of premature or ill newborn infants is undertaken in a neonatal intensive care unit. Administration of high-risk medications and antibiotics, management of infants requiring ventilator support, surgical care and resuscitation, etc. are crucial to neonatal critical care. There are psychiatric intensive care units in psychiatric wards. These are designed to care for patients who pose a degree of risk to themselves or others. Patients are cared for in such units until their mental state is stable. Critical care is an upcoming field of medicine that has undergone rapid development over the past few decades. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of critical care and the recent researches in this field. It will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge in this field.

An eating disorder is a mental disorder in which a person's mental and physical health takes a toll owing to abnormal eating habits. Eating disorders may be in the form of binge eating, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, pica, rumination disorder, etc. Substance abuse, anxiety disorders and depression are common manifestations of eating disorders. The treatment of eating disorders depends on the type and severity of the disorder. Exercising, counseling, proper diet and medication can have positive outcomes. Cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, music therapy, recreation therapy, nutrition counseling, etc. may also be recommended for the management of eating disorders. Often, it is seen that eating disorders can lead to complications such as miscarriages, relapse and attachment insecurity. This book explores all the important aspects of eating disorders in the modern day scenario. It strives to provide a fair idea about the complications of eating disorders along with their medical care and management strategies. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and post-graduate students.

Mood disorders are a set of psychological conditions affecting the mood of an individual. They fall under the groups of elevated mood disorders (mania or hypomania), depressive disorders and moods that cycle between mania and depression. Cyclothymic disorder, dysthymic disorder and major depression are some of the common depressive disorders. Depressive disorders can be of different types, such as atypical depression, psychotic major depression, melancholic depression, catatonic depression, seasonal affective disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, besides others. A mood disorder may be induced by a substance such as alcohol, benzodiazepine, etc. Several medical conditions such as, endocrine diseases, neurological disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, cancer, pulmonary disease, etc. can also trigger mood disorders. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the understanding of mood disorders. It presents this complex medical condition in the most comprehensible language. For someone with an interest and eye for detail, this book covers the most significant aspects of such disorders.

Mood disorders refer to a group of elevated and depressed mood conditions. These are classified as depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, substance-induced disorders or triggered by other medical conditions. Major depressive disorder or depression is a disorder that is characterized by low mood present across all situations and accompanied by a loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities, low self-esteem, low energy and pain caused by an unidentifiable cause. Antidepressants are generally recommended for people with depression. Bipolar disorder is another mental disorder, which causes periods of abnormally elevated mood and depression. During the elevated phase, an individual feels abnormally energetic, happy or irritable, while during depressive periods, there may be a general negative outlook towards life, crying and poor eye contact with people. Antipsychotics, mood stabilizers and melatonin may be prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorders. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders. It aims to give a general view of the different types of mood disorders and their implications in the psychological health of individuals. Students, researchers, experts and all associated with psychiatry, psychology and neurology will benefit alike from this book.

Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder, which causes periods of abnormally elevated mood and periods of depression. The elevated mood may be classified as mania or hypomania, depending on its severity and the presence or absence of signs of psychosis. An individual is likely to make quick decisions with little regard for consequences when in manic periods. During depression, negative outlook towards life, crying and poor eye contact with others are common. There is a high risk of suicide and self-harm in people with this disorder. Bipolar disorder may be caused due to genetic, environmental and neurological triggers. Abnormalities in the function or structure of certain brain circuits, and abnormal action and production of neurotransmitters may result in this disorder. Treatment usually follows a course of medications such as antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, and psychotherapy. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around bipolar disorders. The objective of this book is to give a general view of the different clinical, psychological and behavioral aspects of bipolar disorders. It will help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this field.

Autoimmune disease is the clinical condition that arises due to an abnormal immune response to a body part. There are around 80 different kinds of autoimmune diseases. Certain common autoimmune diseases are diabetes mellitus type 1, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, etc. The diagnosis of an autoimmune disease can be difficult to determine and depends on the type of the condition or its severity. Autoimmune diseases may have certain pathological effects such as damage or destruction of tissues and altered organ function or organ growth. They may evolve into chronic, debilitating and even life-threatening conditions in some cases. The treatment of an autoimmune disease generally targets the symptoms rather than the disease itself as the causative factor is still not defined. Immunosuppressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and intravenous immunoglobulin are commonly used for treatment. This book explores all the important aspects of autoimmune diseases in modern day healthcare. It strives to provide a fair idea about the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in this area. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

The examination of the form of the breast and the investigation of any underlying condition such as lesions and cancers is done through a medical diagnostic technique known as breast imaging. It comprises of a set of techniques such as mammography, xeromammography, galactography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and scintimammography. For women in the age group of 50-74, mammography is recommended every two years. For women undergoing breast surgeries, such as breast reduction, breast enlargement and mastopexy, mammograms should be done less frequently. Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) provides higher degree of accuracy as compared to traditional mammography. Medical ultrasonography is used for both diagnosis and screening. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the domain of breast imaging. The topics covered herein deal with the core techniques of breast imaging. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Diagnostic imaging is the practice of creating visual representations of the interior of a body. It is done for assessing organ and tissue function and for designing medical interventions for the treatment of abnormalities and disorders. Some of the common imaging procedures include radiography, medical ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray computed tomography (CT). Such diagnostic techniques make use of X-rays, ultrasound, strong magnetic fields, radiopharmaceuticals, etc. Research in the application and interpretation of the medical images generated by diverse imaging techniques is covered under the field of radiology. The act of performing medical procedures with the guidance of imaging technologies is called interventional radiology. Most of the topics introduced in this book cover new techniques and applications of radiology. From theories to research to practical applications, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this field have been included in it. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts and researchers.

Cardiovascular imaging is undertaken to investigate a heart condition. Various techniques are used for cardiac imaging such as coronary catheterization, intravascular ultrasound, echocardiogram, cardiac CT scan, cardiac PET scan, cardiac MRI, etc. Coronary catheterization requires blood sampling and monitoring of blood pressure by inserting a catheter into the heart to determine heart function. Intravascular ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses a long, thin, specially designed catheter that is attached to ultrasound equipment to visualize the interior wall of blood vessels and visualize the lumen. An echocardiogram is done by using ultrasonic waves for the visualization of the heart chamber and blood flow. This book explores all the important aspects of cardiovascular imaging in the present day scenario. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. Scientists and students actively engaged in cardiovascular imaging will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

An endoscopy is a medical diagnostic technique, which uses an endoscope to examine the interior of a cavity or a hollow organ in the body. A patient is either put under anesthesia or is fully conscious during the procedure. It is performed to investigate the conditions of the digestive system, diagnose conditions such as cancers, inflammation, anemia or bleeding, and also treat a bleeding vessel, a narrow esophagus, a polyp or a foreign object. Endoscopy can be done for the investigation of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract), the respiratory tract, the female reproductive system, the urinary tract, ears and closed body cavities such as the abdominal or pelvic cavity. It is also performed during pregnancy, orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, endodontic surgery, etc. This book contains some path-breaking studies in the domain of endoscopy. It outlines the processes and applications of endoscopy in detail. This book includes contributions of experts and scientists, which will provide innovative insights into this field.

The advances in optical and MRI based imaging technology have expanded the frontiers of neuroscience and neurovascular research. Some common neurovascular imaging techniques include computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetoencephalography (MEG), positron emission tomography (PET), and cerebral angiography. In a computed tomography (CT) scan, there is a use of computer-processed combinations of X-ray measurements taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional images of a specific body organ or the scanned object. In a magnetic resonance imaging, there is a use of nuclear magnetic resonance to form pictures of the anatomy and the physiological processes of the body. A CT scan of the head is useful in the detection of tumors, calcifications, infarction bone trauma, and haemorrhage, whereas, an MRI of the head is useful in diagnosing nuerological cancers, cerebrovascular disease, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, demyelinating diseases, etc. This book studies, analyzes and upholds the pillars of neurovascular imaging and its utmost significance in modern times. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to the advanced techniques of neurovascular imaging. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

The field of medicine, which deals with the health of nails, skin, hair and scalp, and their associated disorders, is known as dermatology. It is a clinical specialization, which integrates both surgery and medicine. Skin diseases are generally skin neoplasms and skin infections. Acneiform eruptions, autoinflammatory syndromes, dermatitis, erythemas, congenital anomalies, chronic blistering, lichenoid eruptions, genodermatoses, etc. are some of the skin conditions treated in dermatology. The therapies typically used in clinical dermatology include laser hair removal, cryosurgery, cosmetic filler injections, intralesional treatment, liposuction, vitiligo surgery and allergy testing, besides many others. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the current techniques and procedures of dermatology. It aims to present the new researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. It is a vital tool for all researching or studying dermatology as it gives incredible insights into emerging trends and concepts.

A skin neoplasm is an unusual growth of tissue on the skin. It can be cancerous, noncancerous or precancerous. A benign neoplasm does not spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body and stays localized. However, it can still cause damage to organs and tissues around it. Some of the common forms of benign skin neoplasms are lipoma, cherry angioma, epidermoid cyst, etc. A malignant neoplasm is cancerous and grows uncontrollably and invades other organs. It travels through the body producing new tumors. Some of its types are squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, lymphoma of the skin, etc. Some neoplasms are termed as precancerous because they can potentially turn into a cancer if untreated. Some types are actinic keratosis and Bowen's disease. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the diagnosis and treatment of skin neoplasms. The various advancements in this domain are glanced at and their implications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. For someone with an interest and eye for detail, this book covers the most significant topics in dermatology and oncology.

Computed tomography (CT) is a medical procedure that combines computer-processed combinations of X-ray measurements taken from different angles for producing cross-sectional images of specific areas of the scanned object. A three- dimensional volume of the interior of the object is generated using digital geometry processing. Computer tomography can be of different types, such as X-ray CT, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET). CT has applications in medical imaging, disease screening and preventive medicine. The detection of tumors, haemorrhages, infarctions, trauma, acute and chronic lung conditions, abdominal diseases, visualization of venous and arterial vessels, etc. are done using computed tomography scans. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of computed tomography. The ever growing need of advanced technology for medical diagnosis is the reason that has fueled the research in the field of CT in recent times. As this field is emerging at a rapid pace, the contents of this book will help the readers understand the modern concepts and applications of computed tomography.

The development of cancer in the prostate is known as prostate cancer. The growth of such cancers can be slow or quick. It may even spread to other body parts, especially the bones and the lymph nodes. Its symptoms usually appear in the later stages. These include difficulty while urinating, pain in the back or pelvis while urinating, nocturia, blood in the urine and painful ejaculation. It can be diagnosed with the help of digital rectal examination, cystoscopy, prostate MRI, prostate biopsy and transrectal ultrasonography. Treatment methods include high-intensity focused ultrasound, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy and cryosurgery. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on prostate cancer have been included in this book. It includes contributions of experts and scientists, which will provide innovative insights into this medical condition. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on prostate cancer.

Chinese medicine is a traditional medicine practice, which involves different forms of acupuncture, exercise, herbal medicine, massage and dietary therapy. It is based upon the belief that the vital energy of a person's body flows through channels, known as meridians, which have branches connected to the bodily organs and functions. It distinguishes several types of vital energy or qi, on the basis of different cardinal functions, including actuation, warming, defense, containment and transformation. Tui na is a Chinese manual therapeutic technique involving the brushing, pressing, kneading and rolling of the areas between the joints. This is done in order to open the body's defensive qi, to enable it to move freely in the meridians. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of Chinese medicine. It aims to give a general view of the different healing and therapeutic techniques of Chinese medicine and their applications. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Renal failure refers to the medical condition in which the kidneys are no longer able to function. It is also called end-stage kidney disease. It can be classified into two types, namely, acute kidney failure and chronic kidney failure. Some of its common symptoms include vomiting, nocturia, more frequent urination or less frequent urination, difficulty in urination, blood in the urine, muscle cramps and foamy or bubbly urine. Acute kidney injury is usually caused by injuries, accidents, and drug overdoses. Some of the common causes of chronic kidney disease include high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and polycystic kidney disease. Assessment of glomerular filtration rate is helpful in diagnosing renal failure. This book provides significant information about renal failure to help develop a good understanding of its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. For all those who are interested in renal failure, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

The abnormal immune system reaction occurring after eating some specific foods is known as food allergy. The symptoms of the reactions can be both mild and severe, and usually occur within minutes to few hours of exposure. Some of the common symptoms include vomiting, itching, diarrhea, low blood pressure, swelling of the tongue and trouble in breathing. Wheat, peanuts, cow's milk, rice, soy, fish, fruits and eggs are examples of common foods causing allergic reactions. Diagnostic methods include examination of medical history, oral food challenge, skin prick test and elimination test. Epinephrine, steroids and antihistamines are effective in treating food allergies. This book provides significant information about food allergies to help develop a good understanding of their treatment methods. 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.