Health conditions and diseases starting with P. Explore reliable details on symptoms, causes, and treatments to protect your well-being.
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare, acquired hematologic disorder marked by chronic intravascular hemolysis, bone marrow failure, and a heightened risk of thrombosis. It stems from a somatic mutation in the PIGA gene in hematopoietic stem cells, resulting in defective glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins that regulate complement activity. This deficiency renders red blood cells highly
Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia (PAT) is a type of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) characterized by sudden, episodic bursts of rapid heart rate originating from an ectopic focus in the atria, outside the sinoatrial node. These episodes occur abruptly and terminate just as suddenly, often lasting from seconds to several hours. PAT is typically non-life-threatening but may cause
Paroxysmal atrial flutter is a type of supraventricular tachycardia marked by intermittent episodes of rapid and regular atrial contractions. Unlike persistent or chronic atrial flutter, paroxysmal forms are self-limited, lasting for minutes to several hours, and often terminate spontaneously. This condition poses significant clinical relevance due to its potential progression to atrial fibrillation and increased
Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is a subtype of atrial fibrillation characterized by sudden and recurrent episodes of irregular heart rhythm that typically resolve on their own within 7 days, often within 24 hours. These episodes can occur sporadically and without warning, potentially progressing into more persistent or permanent forms of AFib if not effectively managed. It
Paronychia is an infection or inflammation of the periungual tissue, which surrounds the fingernails or toenails. It is one of the most common infections affecting the hand and is often caused by bacterial, fungal, or mixed pathogens. Paronychia can be acute or chronic and may lead to significant pain, swelling, and functional limitations if not
Parkinsonism refers to a group of neurological disorders characterized by symptoms similar to those of Parkinson’s disease. These include bradykinesia, rigidity, resting tremor, and postural instability. While Parkinson’s disease is the most well-known cause, other neurodegenerative and secondary conditions may also lead to parkinsonian features. Parkinsonism is not a diagnosis but a clinical syndrome, and
Paratyphoid fever is a systemic bacterial infection caused by Salmonella enterica serovars Paratyphi A, Paratyphi B, and Paratyphi C. It is part of the enteric fever complex, closely related to typhoid fever, but is generally considered less severe. Paratyphoid fever remains a significant public health concern in many low- and middle-income countries, particularly where sanitation
Parathyroid hyperactivity, typically associated with primary hyperparathyroidism, results from excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Accurate localization of hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue is essential to guide surgical intervention, particularly for patients undergoing minimally invasive parathyroidectomy. The success of treatment depends heavily on precise preoperative and intraoperative identification of the overactive gland(s). Pathophysiology of Parathyroid Hyperactivity The
Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare but aggressive endocrine malignancy originating from the parathyroid glands. It accounts for less than 1% of primary hyperparathyroidism cases yet is a critical differential diagnosis in patients presenting with severe hypercalcemia. The excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) leads to markedly elevated serum calcium levels, posing life-threatening systemic complications. Unlike
Parasitic infections remain a significant global health concern, especially in regions with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. A parasitic infection occurs when a parasite—an organism that lives on or inside a host—invades the human body and disrupts normal physiological functions. These organisms derive nutrients at the host’s expense, often leading to severe