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What are periodontal diseases? The word periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal diseases are also called gum diseases. They are serious bacterial infections that attack the gums and the nearby…

Diabetes that isn’t controlled well can lead to gum (periodontal) disease. This can happen at any age. Gum disease is an infection of the gums and the bones that hold…

What is multifactorial inheritance? Multifactorial inheritance is when more than 1 factor causes a trait or health problem, such as a birth defect or chronic illness. Genes can be a…

What are chromosome studies? Chromosomes are stick-shaped structures in the middle (nucleus) of each cell in the body. Each cell has 46 chromosomes grouped in 23 pairs. When a chromosome…

What is robotic-assisted patent foramen ovale repair? A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a small hole between the 2 upper chambers of the heart, the right and the left atrium.…

Recovering from surgery After surgery, you’ll go to the recovery room. This also may be called the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). There, clinical staff will closely watch you as you…

What is metatarsus adductus in children? Metatarsus adductus (MTA) is a common foot deformity noted at birth. It causes the front half of the child’s foot (forefoot) to turn inward.…

What is mosaicism? Mosaicism is when a person has two or more genetically different sets of cells in their body. Chromosomes are stick-shaped structures in the middle of each cell…

Does this test have other names? MMA What is this test? This test measures the amount of a substance called methylmalonic acid (MMA) in your blood. MMA is typically made…

What is antiphospholipid syndrome? Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disease. This happens when your immune system fights against normal cells. In this condition, your body makes antibodies that attack a kind of…