Thyroid Disorders

What Is the Thyroid? The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that regulates the body’s metabolism and organ function. The gland is located across the base of the neck below the Adam’s apple and in front of the windpipe. The thyroid produces hormones that...
HIV and AIDS

HIV and AIDS

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the most severe form of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). AIDS was first reported in 1981 and is now a worldwide epidemic. HIV progressively destroys the cells of the immune system thereby damaging the body’s...

Pubic Lice, Crabs

What Are Pubic Lice or Crabs? Public lice, or crabs, is the common name for Pediculosis. Pediculosis is a tiny crab-like parasite that is usually found in the pubic hair of infected men and women, and occasionally in the hair of the chest, armpits, eyelashes and...

Molluscum Contagiosum

What Is Molluscum Contagiosum? Molluscum contagiosum is a benign viral infection of the skin caused by the pox virus. Molluscum contagiosum most often affects young children who pass it to each other through saliva while in adults the virus is sexually transmitted....

Hepatitis

What Is Hepatitis? Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by viruses or other factors, including alcohol abuse, certain medications or physical trauma. Some cases of hepatitis are not a serious threat to health, but the disease can become chronic...