Tag Archives: healthy kids

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) facts *Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) facts medical author: Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a relatively rare genetic disease that causes benign (noncancerous) tumors to grow in the brain and other vital organs (for example, kidneys, heart, eyes, lungs, and skin). It occurs in about one in …

What is methylphenidate hydrochloride, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Methylphenidate is a medication used for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It stimulates the central nervous system (CNS or brain) in a manner that is similar to amphetamines; however, its actions are milder than amphetamines. Amphetamines stimulate the brain by increasing the level of neurotransmitters, dopamine and …

What is clonidine (Kapvay extended-release), and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Kapvay is an oral medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. This drug has been used to reduce blood pressure in adults for many years but has been approved for another indication by the FDA. Kapvay works by stimulating alpha-2 receptors …

Treacher Collins syndrome definition and facts* Share Your Story *Treacher Collins syndrome facts medically edited by: Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD Treacher Collins syndrome (TCS) is a condition (genetic disease) that alters the development of bones and other tissues in the face. Signs and symptoms vary from almost unnoticeable face changes to severe facial and ear alterations, cleft palate and …

Loeys-Dietz syndrome facts Loeys-Dietz syndrome is a recently-described connective tissue disorder that predisposes to the development of aortic aneurysms and other connective tissue defects. Loeys-Dietz syndrome is known to be a result of mutations in the TGF-beta-receptor I (TGFBR1) or II (TGFBR2) genes and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Genetic testing is performed to identify the mutation and …

Shaken baby syndrome facts Inflicted trauma (especially shaken baby syndrome) is a leading cause of childhood (especially infant) mortality. There are several risk factors associated with an increased risk for shaken baby syndrome. Multiple behavioral symptoms and physical signs enable physicians to establish the diagnosis of shaken baby syndrome. Successful treatment for shaken baby syndrome demands accurate diagnosis and removal …

What is Landau-Kleffner syndrome? Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) is a childhood disorder. A major feature of LKS is the gradual or sudden loss of the ability to understand and use spoken language. All children with LKS have abnormal electrical brain waves that can be documented by an electroencephalogram (EEG), a recording of the electric activity of the brain. Approximately 80 percent …

What is Leigh’s Disease? Leigh’s disease is a rare inherited neurometabolic disorder that affects the central nervous system. This progressive disorder begins in infants between the ages of three months and two years. Rarely, it occurs in teenagers and adults. What causes Leigh’s disease? Leigh’s disease can be caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA or by deficiencies of an enzyme …

Newborn jaundice and kernicterus facts Jaundice in newborns is yellowing of the skin due to excessive bilirubin. Kernicterus is a type of brain damage due to excessive bilirubin in the blood. Signs and symptoms of jaundice include skin yellowing of the face, then chest, abdomen and extremities; the whites of the eyes may become yellowish. Contact your baby’s doctor if …

The urinary tract consists of two kidneys, which filter waste materials and excess water from the blood two ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder the bladder, where urine is stored until it is released the urethra, where urine flows out of the body Normal urinary tract We rely on our kidneys and urinary system to keep …