Glossary for Paralysis symptoms

Medical terms related to Paralysis symptoms or mentioned in this section include:

• AChR deficiency and short channel open time: Extremely rare condition characterized by respiratory insufficiency from birth, facial dysplasia and paralysis of eye muscles.
• Aaa_unused symptom qualifiers: Internal web site information of no relevance to patients
• Abscess: This is an area of puss collected in a cavity which is constituted by necrotised tissue
• Acoustic neuroma: A rare benign tumor that forms in the hearing canal. Can cause tinnitus, progressive hearing loss, headaches, facial numbness, papilledema, dizziness and an unsteady walk. Speaking and swallowing difficulty can occur in advanced stages. Also called acoustic neurilemoma, acoustic neurinoma and acoustic neurofibroma.
• Acute Bokhoror: A brain disease caused by an unknown pathogen which is probably from the Picornavirus family of viruses. Mode of transmission is uncertain but genetic susceptibility may be involved. The incubation period appears to be an average of 15 years. The disease can be classified according to rate of progression: acute or subacute, slowly progressive and chronic. Death is common in the acute phase of the infection which can last from four days to four months.
• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis: A type of encephalitis that usually follows an acute viral infection and involves an immune attack on myelin tissue which is part of the nervous system. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting and drowsiness followed by seizures, coma and paralysis. Often results in permanent neurological disorders.
• Acute VE: A brain disease caused by an unknown pathogen which is probably from the Picornavirus family of viruses. Mode of transmission is uncertain but genetic susceptibility may be involved. The incubation period appears to be an average of 15 years. The disease can be classified according to rate of progression: acute or subacute, slowly progressive and chronic. Death is common in the acute phase of the infection which can last from four days to four months.
• Acute Viliuisk Encephalitis: A brain disease caused by an unknown pathogen which is probably from the Picornavirus family of viruses. Mode of transmission is uncertain but genetic susceptibility may be involved. The incubation period appears to be an average of 15 years. The disease can be classified according to rate of progression: acute or subacute, slowly progressive and chronic. Death is common in the acute phase of the infection which can last from four days to four months.
• Acute Viliuisk Encephalomyelitis: A brain disease caused by an unknown pathogen which is probably from the Picornavirus family of viruses. Mode of transmission is uncertain but genetic susceptibility may be involved. The incubation period appears to be an average of 15 years. The disease can be classified according to rate of progression: acute or subacute, slowly progressive and chronic. Death is common in the acute phase of the infection which can last from four days to four months.
• Acute Vilyuisk Encephalitis: A brain disease caused by an unknown pathogen which is probably from the Picornavirus family of viruses. Mode of transmission is uncertain but genetic susceptibility may be involved. The incubation period appears to be an average of 15 years. The disease can be classified according to rate of progression: acute or subacute, slowly progressive and chronic. Death is common in the acute phase of the infection which can last from four days to four months.
• Acute Vilyuisk Encephalomyelitis: A brain disease caused by an unknown pathogen which is probably from the Picornavirus family of viruses. Mode of transmission is uncertain but genetic susceptibility may be involved. The incubation period appears to be an average of 15 years. The disease can be classified according to rate of progression: acute or subacute, slowly progressive and chronic. Death is common in the acute phase of the infection which can last from four days to four months.
• Acute idiopathic polyneuritis: An inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves The condition is characterized by weakness, numbness or tingling in the legs or arms or occasionally loss of movement and feeling in the legs, arms, upper body and face. Some patients have minor symptoms and others suffer severe symptoms such as paralysis. Also called Guillain-Barre syndrome, infectious polyneuritis or acute febrile polyneuritis.
• Adenoid cystic carcinoma: A malignant cancer in the form of cysts which may occur in the salivary glands, breast, mucous glands of the respiratory tract and sometimes in vulval vestibular glands. Also called adeoncystic carcinoma, adenomyoepithelioma, cribriform carcinoma or cylindroma.
• Adrenal Cancer: A malignant cancer that develops in the adrenal gland. The tumor may be nonfunctioning (does not produce hormones) or functioning in which case excessive levels of hormones can cause a variety of symptoms depending on which hormone is involved. Adrenal hormones made in the cortex (outer part of the gland) are aldosterone, corticosteroids and androgenic steroids. Adrenalin and noradrenalin are the hormones made in the medulla (central part of the adrenal gland).
• Adrenal Cortex Neoplasms: A tumor that develops in the adrenal gland. The tumor may be nonfunctioning (does not produce hormones) or functioning in which case excessive levels of hormones can cause a variety of symptoms depending on which hormone is involved. Adrenal hormones made in the cortex (outer part of the gland) are aldosterone, corticosteroids and androgenic steroids.
• Adrenal adenoma, familial: A benign tumor that develops in the adrenal gland and tends to run in families. The tumor may be nonfunctioning (does not produce hormones) or functioning in which case excessive levels of hormones can cause a variety of symptoms depending on which hormone is involved. Adrenal hormones made in the cortex (outer part of the gland) are aldosterone, corticosteroids and androgenic steroids . Adrenalin and noradrenalin are the hormones made in the medulla (central part of the adrenal gland).
• Adrenal gland hyperfunction: Excessive activity of the adrenal gland which causes excessive production of one or more adrenal hormones (aldosterone, corticosteroids, androgenic steroids, epinephrine and norepinephrine). The increased adrenal gland activity may be caused by an adrenal gland tumor or by excessive stimulation of the gland. Pituitary hormones stimulate adrenal gland activity.
• Adrenal incidentaloma: A tumor of the adrenal gland that is discovered incidentally while performing an imaging examination for reasons other than an adrenal tumor. The tumor may be asymptomatic or can causes excessive secretion of adrenal hormones and resulting symptoms. The tumor may also be malignant or benign.
• Adrenocortical carcinoma: A condition which is characterized by malignancy which affects the adrenocortex.
• Adrenoleukodystrophy, autosomal, neonatal form: A rare inherited disorder involving the adrenal glands, testes and certain parts of the brain (white matter). It is a less severe form of leukodystrophy where an abnormality within the body cells prevents the metabolism of certain fats (long chain fatty acids).
• Adult-onset ALD: Form of ALD in adults.
• Aicardi syndrome: A rare genetic disorder where the structure connecting the two halves of the brain fails to develop which results in seizures and eye abnormalities .
• Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome: A rare inherited progressive disease that affects the brain and immune system.
• Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome 1: A rare inherited progressive disease that affects the brain and immune system. Type 1 is caused by a defect on chromosome 3p21.3-p21.2.
• Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome 2: A rare inherited progressive disease that affects the brain and immune system. Type 2 is caused by a defect on chromosome 13q14-q21.
• Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome 3: A rare inherited progressive disease that affects the brain and immune system. Type 3 is caused by a defect on chromosome 11q13.2.
• Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome 4: A rare inherited progressive disease that affects the brain and immune system. Type 4 is caused by a defect on chromosome 19p13.13.
• Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome 5: A rare inherited progressive disease that affects the brain and immune system. Type 5 is caused by a defect on chromosome 3p21.3-p21.2.
• Alajouanine syndrome: A birth disorder characterized mainly by clubfoot, strabismus and facial paralysis. The facial paralysis is caused by damage to the 6th and 7th cranial nerve.
• Alcohol abuse: Excessive alcohol as a symptom of other conditions
• Alpers Syndrome: A rare syndrome characterized by liver disease, seizures and progressive, episodic psychomotor retardation.
• Alternating Hemiplegia: Episodes of one-sided paralysis.
• Alzheimer disease, familial, 3, with spastic paraparesis and apraxia: This form of Alzheimer's is an early-onset form of Alzheimer's that is linked to a defect on chromosome 14q24.3. It is characterized by features which are atypical for Alzheimer's - spastic paraparesis which occurs before the dementia symptoms and apraxia. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive disorder involving degeneration of the brain. The disease mainly affects brain functions involving thinking, memory, personality and behaviour.
• Amnesic shellfish poisoning: Rare shellfish poisoning sometimes causing amnesia.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A degenerative motor neuron disease marked by weakness and wasting of the muscles which starts at the hands and legs and spreads to the rest of the body. Death occurs in 2 to 5 years. Also called Lou Gehrig's disease or wasting palsy.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 2, juvenile: An inherited disorder involving progressive degeneration of motor neurons which results in muscle weakness and wasting. Type 2 is caused by a defect on chromosome 2q33.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 3: An inherited disorder involving progressive degeneration of motor neurons which results in muscle weakness and wasting. Type 3 is caused by a defect on chromosome 18q21.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 6: An inherited disorder involving progressive degeneration of motor neurons which results in muscle weakness and wasting. Type 6 is caused by a defect on chromosome 16q12.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 7: An inherited disorder involving progressive degeneration of motor neurons which results in muscle weakness and wasting. Type 7 is caused by a defect on chromosome 20p13.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 8: An inherited disorder involving progressive degeneration of motor neurons which results in muscle weakness and wasting. Type 9 is caused by a defect on chromosome 20q13.3 and is a dominantly inherited, late-onset form.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 1: A generally fatal, inherited progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 1 is characterized by adult onset and relatively fast progression of symptoms. It usually occurs in an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 2: A generally fatal, inherited progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 2 is characterized by childhood or adolescent onset of symptoms which progress very slowly over decades. It occurs in an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 3: A generally fatal, inherited progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 3 is characterized late adulthood onset of symptoms which progress slowly over 5 years. It occurs in an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 4: A generally fatal progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 4 is characterized by the onset of symptoms before the age of 25 and slow progression over the next few decades. It occurs in an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 5: A generally fatal, inherited progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 6 is characterized adolescent onset of symptoms with progression varying between 1 and 20 years. It occurs in an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 6: A generally fatal, inherited progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 6 is characterized adult onset of symptoms with progression varying between 1 and 20 years. It occurs in an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 7: A generally fatal, inherited progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 7 is characterized adult onset of symptoms with progression varying between less than 5 years to several decades. It occurs in an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial type 8: A generally fatal, inherited progressive disease where destruction of motor nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Type 8 is characterized by adult onset and relatively slow progression of symptoms. It occurs in an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance.
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, type 6: An inherited disorder involving progressive degeneration of motor neurons which results in muscle weakness and wasting. Type 6 is caused by a defect on chromosome 16q12.
• Amyotrophy, neurogenic scapuloperoneal, New England type: An inherited disorder involving muscle wasting and weakness in the shoulder and lower leg. The exact symptoms that occur may vary from patient to patient with males often being more affected than females. An interesting observation of this condition is that symptoms and rate of progression tends to be more severe with each passing generation.
• Anchovy poisoning (clupeotoxin): Some anchovies contain toxins (Clupeotoxin) which can be poisonous to humans if eaten. Heat does not destroy the toxin and there is still uncertainty as to the origin of the toxin. The toxin appears to be present in higher concentrations in summer and is believed to be possible linked to the consumption of toxic food in its food web. The size and age of the anchovy does not appear to be related to the toxicity. The anchovies are found in coastal waters off Africa and the Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Oceans.
• Ankle paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the ankle due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Anterior spinal artery syndrome: Neurological symptoms caused by the blockage of the anterior spinal artery. The blockage may be caused by such things as trauma, cancer, thrombosis and arterial disease. Symptoms are determined by the exact location of the blockage.
• Apo A-I deficiency: Low plasma HDL cholesterol that tends to run in families.
• Apricot seed poisoning: Apricot seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. The toxic chemicals are not released if the pit remains intact and therefore poisoning usually occurs if the seeds are crushed and eaten. Accidental ingestion is very unusual. Most parts of the apricot plant contain the toxic chemical with the highest concentration in young leaves. Different species of apricots have different levels of toxic chemical. Severe symptoms or even death can occur if children consume more than ten kernels or adults consume more than forty kernels. Theories exist that apricot kernels may help cancer sufferers but there has been no scientific studies that have proven this.
• Arachnoid Cysts: A rare disorder involving a fluid-filled cysts on the arachnoid membrane which is one of the thin layers of tissue that form a membrane which covers the spinal cord and brain. The type and severity of symptoms is determined by the size and location of the cyst.
• Arachnoiditis: A progressive disorder where the arachnoid membrane becomes inflamed and the brain and spinal cord may also become inflamed.
• Arbovirosis: An infectious disease caused by an arbovirus. The virus is transmitted by arthropods such as insects and ticks. Examples of arboviruses include Yellow Fever, Japanese encephalitis and tick-borne encephalitis. The symptoms may vary depending on the type of virus involved. The infection can lead to life-threatening brain inflammation.
• Arm paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the arm due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Arnold-Chiari malformation type 3: An extremely rare malformation where the base of the brain enters into the upper spinal canal. Type 3 involves the herniation of brain or brain stem tissue out of the back of the neck or head. The condition generally has a poor prognosis.
• Arterial dissections with lentiginosis: A rare familial syndrome characterized by the association of aortic dissection and multiple lentigines (brown skin spots). The aorta can rupture in some cases and result in sudden death.
• Arteriovenous Malformation: Birth defect of a tangle of veins and arteries.
• Arthritis: A condition which is characterized by the inflammation of a joint
• Arthrogryposis: A condition which is characterized by the persistent flexure of a joint
• Asiatic porpoise poisoning: The Asiatic porpoise is eaten mainly in China. Eating the liver, internal organs and muscle tissue of the Asiatic porpoise can cause poisoning symptoms in humans if sufficient quantities are consumed. The nature of the toxin is unknown but it is believed that some cases result from very high levels of vitamin A in the liver.
• Ataxia - oculomotor apraxia, type 1: A nerve disorder which affects the motor nerves and results in movement problems which includes the eyes. Gait problems are usually the first symptom and this is followed by speaking difficulty, intention tremor and then eye movement problems.
• Ataxia-oculomotor apraxia syndrome: A nerve disorder which affects the motor nerves and results in movement problems which includes the eyes. Gait problems are usually the first symptom and this is followed by speaking difficulty, intention tremor and then eye movement problems.
• Athabaskan brainstem dysgenesis: A rare neurological disorder caused by abnormal brainstem development and function.
• Athabaskan severe combined immunodeficiency: A severe immunodeficiency disorder found in Navajo and Apache populations.
• Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System: A group of diseases where the body's immune system attacks it's own nervous system. Examples includes opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome, Guillain-Barre syndrome and multiple sclerosis. Symptoms vary depending on which nerves are involved.
• Back paralysis: Paralysis of the back that results in an inability to move it
• Back tumour: The presence of tumour growth in the vertebra, whether due to primary malignancies e.g. leukaemic or myeloma infiltration of the bone marrow, or due to secondary metastases from another site e.g. lung or breast.
• Balo's concentric sclerosis: Demyelination of the brain producing a variety of symptoms depending on the area of the brain affected.
• Basal ganglia disease, biotin-responsive: A neurological disease that affects the part of the brain called the basal ganglia. The disease responds well to biotin administration but relapses within a month if the biotin is stopped. If the condition is diagnosed late or there are recurring episodes, the patient may suffer ongoing symptoms such as paraparesis, mild mental retardation or dystonia.
• Bell's palsy: A one sided muscle paralysis of sudden onset due to a problem with the facial nerve
• Benign astrocytoma: Benign tumors that occur in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms and severity depends on the location and size of the tumors.
• Beriberi: Disease due to vitamin B1 deficiency (thiamine)
• Berk-Tabatznik syndrome: A rare condition characterized by eye and skeletal problems.
• Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis: A rare condition where inflammation of the brainstem results in various symptoms such as ataxia and ophthalmoplegia. The onset of symptoms is usually acute.
• Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis (BBE): A rare condition where inflammation of the brainstem results in various symptoms such as ataxia and ophthalmoplegia. The onset of symptoms is usually acute.
• Bird cherry seed poisoning: Wild cherry seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. The toxic chemicals are not released if the seed remains intact and therefore poisoning usually occurs if the seeds are crushed and eaten. Accidental ingestion is very unusual.
• Bitter almond seed poisoning: Bitter almond seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. Accidental ingestion is very unusual. Bitter almond plants grow mainly in Northern America. Various processes can be used to leach the toxic chemical out of the bitter almonds.
• Blue-ringed octopus poisoning: The blue-ringed octopus is found in shallow Australian ocean water and can deliver venomous, potentially fatal bite. The poison is present in the saliva of the octopus. The venom affects the neuromuscular system.
• Bog rosemary poisoning: Bog rosemary is a type of heath found in bogs and cold peat areas of the more northern parts of the world. It is a small shrub with tall thin stems. The flowers are whit or pink. The plant contains a chemical called grayanotoxin which can cause various symptoms if eaten. The plant is only considered poisonous if large amounts are eaten.
• Boltshauser Syndrome: Boltshauser Syndrome is a rare condition reported in a few generations in one family. The condition is characterized by paralysis of the vocal cords, deafness and movement problems.
• Bone marrow failure - neurologic abnormalities: A rare syndrome characterized by the association of bone marrow failure and neurological abnormalities.
• Bonefish poisoning (clupeotoxin): Some bonefish contain toxins (Clupeotoxin) which can be poisonous to humans if eaten. Heat does not destroy the toxin and there is still uncertainty as to the origin of the toxin. The toxin appears to be present in higher concentrations in summer and is believed to be possible linked to the consumption of toxic food in its food web. The size and age of the bonefish does not appear to be related to the toxicity. The bonefish are found in coastal waters off Africa and the Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Oceans.
• Bottlebrush buckeye poisoning: The Bottlebrush buckeye is a deciduous shrub which bears clusters of white or pink flowers and smooth, leathery fruit containing shiny seeds. The plant originated in southern USA. The plant contains various toxic chemicals (glycoside esculin, saponin aescin) which can cause potentially fatal toxicity if sufficient quantities of the seeds or leaves are consumed.
• Botulism food poisoning: Extremely dangerous food poisoning requiring medical attention, but not always recognized because of its non-abdominal symptoms.
• Brachial Plexus Injury: Damage to the nerves controlling the shoulder and arm (often from childbirth).
• Brain abscess: abscess in the brain may involve any of the lobes of the brain
• Brain cancer: Cancer of the brain.
• Brain compression: Internal compression of the brain
• Brain tumor: A condition which is characterized by the abnormal growth of tissue within the brain
• Brown snake poisoning: The Brown snake is a poisonous Australian snake. They are considered one of the most venomous snakes in the world and their bite can result in death without prompt medical attention. The snake venom contains toxins which affect the blood and nerve systems. Children tend to suffer more severe symptoms due to their smaller body size.
• Brown-Sequard Syndrome: A disorder where spinal cord compression and lesions involve only half of the spinal cord.
• Brushfield-Wyatt syndrome: A rare syndrome characterized mainly by mental deficiency, weakness on one side of the body and large port-wine stains that cover about a third of the skin's total surface. This condition may be a variant of another condition called Sturge-Weber syndrome.
• Buckeye poisoning: Buckeye is a shrub or small tree which contains a toxic compound called aesculin that can cause gastrointestinal or neuromuscular symptoms. Young leaves, flowers and bark are the most toxic parts of the plant. The plant is most common in parts of North America. Eating only one or two seeds may simply cause vomiting or diarrhea but repeated exposure or eating large amounts can cause more serious symptoms.
• Buerger's disease: Buergers's disease is a recurring inflammation and thrombosis (clotting) of small and medium arteries and veins of the hands and feet
• Bush lily poisoning: The Bush lily is a perennial herb which bears long strappy leaves, small funnel-shaped flowers and red berries. The plant originated in South Africa and is often grown in gardens or utilized as a houseplant. The plant contains alkaloids which can cause toxicity symptoms if eaten in large quantities.
• Calcification of basal ganglia with or without hypocalcemia: Calcification of a part of the brain called the basal ganglia. That calcification may be associated with conditions such as hypothyroidism, cytomegalovirus, and AIDS or may occur for no apparent reason. The severity of the condition may vary greatly from asymptomatic to neurological, psychiatric and movement disorders. The disorder may also progress at variable rates or remain stable depending on the underlying disease process.
• California buckeye poisoning: The California buckeye is a deciduous shrub which bears clusters of white or pink flowers and smooth, leathery fruit containing shiny seeds. The plant originated in California. The plant contains various toxic chemicals (glycoside esculin, saponin aescin) which can cause potentially fatal toxicity if sufficient quantities of the seeds or leaves are consumed.
• California encephalitis: An uncommon mosquito born virus (California encephalitis virus) which can cause brain inflammation in humans. The severity of symptoms is variable. The incubation period can last from a few days to a week. Infants and children tend to be more severely affected than adults who sometimes have no obvious symptoms.
• Canavan disease: Rare genetic degenerative brain disease in infants.
• Canavan leukodystrophy: A rare inherited disorder where a chemical imbalance in the brain leads to spongy degeneration of the central nervous system which results in progressive mental deterioration and associated symptoms.
• Carbamate insecticide poisoning: Excessive ingestion of carbamate insecticide drugs.
• Catatonia: Motor muscle function disorder
• Central pontine myelinolysis: A rare condition where the protective layer around brainstem nerve cells is destroyed which prevents nerve signals being transmitted properly. It generally occurs in response to a rapid change in sodium levels in the body which can be caused by treatment of various conditions or by various conditions that cause rapid sodium level changes.
• Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy, Familial: A rare disorder where abnormal deposits of amyloid in the brain blood vessels causes spasticity, incoordination and dementia. Brain hemorrhage and strokes may also result in severe cases.
• Cerebral Palsy: Any brain disorder causing movement disability
• Cerebral cavernous malformations: A rare disorder where a group of small abnormal blood vessels in the brain. These blood vessels become enlarged, irregularly shaped and thin walled. They swell when filled with blood and are then often unable to return to their original shape and the thin walls means that they can leak blood and cause bleeding in the brain. Severity of symptoms depends on the number and location of the lesions.
• Cerebral hemorrhage: Bleeding in the brain
• Cerebral sarcoma: A type of brain tumor that can be inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. The tumor arises from blood vessels in the brain. Symptoms may vary depending on the size and exact location of the tumor.
• Cerebrovascular accident: Occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted and results in cell injury and death.
• Cervicooculoacoustic syndrome: A rare genetic disorder characterized by ocular palsy, congenital perceptive deafness and fusion of the vertebrae in the neck.
• Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease with pyramidal features, autosomal dominant: CMT is an inherited neurological disease characterized by the gradual degeneration of nerves which starts in the hands and feet and results in progressive numbness, muscle weakness and loss of function. Type 5 has an autosomal dominant inheritance, progresses slowly and involves movement disorders.
• Chemical poisoning - Aldicarb: Aldicarb is a carbamate pesticide used mainly as an insecticide, nematicide and acaricide. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure. The chemical may be absorbed through the skin.
• Chemical poisoning - Allethrin: Allethrin is a chemical used as an insecticide, mainly in households. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Azinphos-methyl: Azinphos-methyl is a chemical pesticide used as an insecticide and acaricide. The chemical is an organophosphorus compound and ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure. The chemical may be absorbed through the skin.
• Chemical poisoning - Bromide: Bromide is a chemical used for many applications - flame retardant, industrial uses, pesticides, sanitary products, fumigants, medicines, dyes, photographic solutions and water purification. Bromides act as central nervous system depressants and the ingestion of excessive quantities can cause serious symptoms. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Carbaryl: Carbaryl is a carbamate pesticide used mainly as an insecticide and acaricide. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure. The chemical may be absorbed through the skin.
• Chemical poisoning - Chlorpyrifos: Chlorpyrifos is a chemical used mainly in as an insecticide. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The chemical may be absorbed readily through the skin. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Coumaphos: Coumaphos is used as a pesticide. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The chemical may be absorbed readily through the skin. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Cresols: Cresols are a group of chemicals that occur naturally in mammals and various plants. It is also manufactured and used in the production of disinfectants, deodorizers and pesticides. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The chemical is readily absorbed through the skin. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Cresylic acid: Cresylic acids are a group of chemicals that are used as solvents and in the manufacture of various products such as deodorants, disinfectants, pesticides, glues, paints, herbicides, pharmaceuticals as well as others. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The chemical is readily absorbed through the skin. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Dimethyl Phthalate: Dimethyl Phthalate is a chemical used mainly as an insect repellant . Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Glaze: Glazes are used to put a shiny finish on various surfaces such as pottery. Glazes contain chemicals such as lead and zinc oxide which can cause serious symptoms if sufficient quantities are eaten. The chemicals cause damage to the gastrointestinal lining and the damage may continue for weeks after the poison was ingested. Death can result in severe cases. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Chemical poisoning - Monocrotophos: Monocrotophos is a chemical insecticide. The chemical is an organophosphorus compound and ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure. The chemical may be absorbed through the skin.
• Chemical poisoning - Propoxur: Propoxur is a carbamate pesticide used mainly as an insecticide and acaricide. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure. The chemical may be absorbed through the skin.
• Chemical poisoning - Thiram: Thiram is a chemical used mainly in the rubber industry, latex manufacture and as a pesticide. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Cherry laurel seed poisoning: Wild cherry seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. The toxic chemicals are not released if the seed remains intact and therefore poisoning usually occurs if the seeds are crushed and eaten. Accidental ingestion is very unusual. Wild cherry plants grow mainly in eastern Europe, Western Asia and Britain.
• Cherry seed poisoning: Cherry seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. The toxic chemicals are not released if the seed remains intact and therefore poisoning usually only occurs if the seeds are crushed and eaten. Accidental ingestion is very unusual.
• Chiari Malformation: Protrusion of the brain down the spinal column.
• China Tree poisoning: The China tree is a deciduous tree which bears clusters of numerous pinkish-purple flowers. It also produces a yellow-green fruit. The fruit and leaves contain a chemical called tetranortriterpene neurotoxin which can cause poisoning symptoms if consumed in large quanitites.
• Chokecherry seed poisoning: Chokecherry seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. The toxic chemicals are not released if the seed remains intact and therefore poisoning usually occurs if the seeds are crushed and eaten. Accidental ingestion is very unusual. Chokecherry plants grow mainly in Northern America.
• Choking: Sensation of blockage or inability to breathe.
• Chromosome 7 ring syndrome: A rare chromosomal disorder where the ends of chromosome 7 have been deleted and the two broken ends have rejoined to form a ring shape resulting in a range of symptoms determined by the size of the genetic deletion.
• Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: A rare disorder involving swelling of nerve roots and destruction of the protective layer around nerves. Severe symptoms can take up to a year or more to develop.
• Chédiak-Higashi syndrome: An inherited immune system disorder characterized by reduced pigmentation, recurrent infection and neurological disorders.
• Clupeotoxism: A potentially fatal condition caused by eating fish such as herrings and anchovies from the Clupeidae family of fish. Severe poisoning can result in death within half an hour of ingestion. Outbreaks have been reported in the Caribbean Sea and the Indian-Pacific area.
• Coastal leucothoe poisoning: The coastal leucothoe is an evergreen shrub which bears small clusters of bell-shaped, white flowers in the apex of the leaves. It also bears small capsulated fruit. The leaves and flower nectar contain a chemical called andromedotoxin which is very toxic and can cause death if sufficient quantities are eaten.
• Cobra poisoning: The Cobra is a poisonous snake which can be found in Africa, Asia and other parts of the world. Some cobras are able to spit venom into the victims eye and cause serious symptoms.
• Collapse: Physical or mental process shutdown
• Compartment syndrome: compartment syndrome involves the compression of nerves and blood vessels within an enclosed space. This leads to impaired blood flow and muscle and nerve damage
• Cone shell poisoning: A number of species of cone shells are capable of envenomating humans. The toxin is a neurotoxin and thus primarily affects the nervous system. Cone shells are found mainly in shallow waters of the Indian and Pacific oceans. The toxicity varies amongst species with some delivering a benign stink whereas others are capable of causing death. The cone snails a proboscis on the end of which is a poison-filled barb.
• Congenital ichthyosis, microcephalus, quadriplegia: A rare birth disorder characterized by scaly skin, small head and paralysis of legs and arms.
• Congenital stenosis of cervical medullary canal: A rare birth anomaly where the spinal canal in the upper part of the back is narrower than normal. The narrowing may be inherited or acquired (e.g. trauma). The narrowing of the canal can result in spinal cord compression and associated symptoms.
• Conn's syndrome: An adrenal gland disorder where excess aldosterone hormone is produced resulting in symptoms such as headache, fatigue, nocturia and increased urine production. Also called primary hyperaldosteronism.
• Conversion Disorder: A psychological condition where physical symptoms arise due to emotional dilemmas.
• Corn Lily poisoning: Corn Lily is a poisonous plant native to the Sierra Nevada mountains. It's appearance is similar to the corn grown as a crop. The plant poison primarily affects the nervous system.
• Craniodiaphyseal dysplasia: A very rare bone disorder where excess calcium is deposited mainly in the skull bones which can result in compression of various nerves in the skull and even the brain.
• Craniometaphyseal dysplasia, autosomal recessive type: A rare genetic disorder characterized by head and facial abnormalities as well as mild limb abnormalities. It is a milder form of the disease than the autosomal dominant type.
• Cutaneomeningospinal angiomatosis: A rare inherited disorder involving a skin birthmark as well as a blood vessel malformation in the spinal cord (angioma). The severity of the spinal involvement is variable with neurological problems occurring as a result of compression of the spinal cord or bleeding. Other cases may be undiagnosed as the cause no symptoms.
• Cycad nut poisoning: The cycad nut contains a toxic chemical called cyasin which can be leeched out by soaking in water. The nuts are often used as a food source but it is important to leech out the toxic chemicals first. Eating nuts that still contain the toxin can cause serious symptoms. Cycad nuts may also increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
• Deafness conductive stapedial ear malformation facial palsy: A rare disorder characterized by conductive deafness, malformed external ears and facial paralysis. The deafness is due to an abnormal bone (stapes) in the inner ear which vibrates to transmit sound messages.
• Deafness, Conductive Stapedial, With Ear Malformation and Facial Palsy: A rare syndrome characterized by an ear abnormality (due to a stapedial defect) which causes conductive deafness as well as malformed external ears and facial paralysis. The degree and extent of facial paralysis is variable - can affect only one side of face or may be a weakness rather than a paralysis.
• Decompression sickness: Condition from overly rapid decompression, especially when diving.
• Delphinium poisoning: Delphinium is a member of the Buttercup family and contains toxic alkaloids. It's seeds are very toxic but other parts of the plant are also poisonous. As the plant ages, it becomes less poisonous. Toxicity varies amongst species.
• Demyelinating disorder: Any condition that is characterised by the destruction of the myelin sheaths of the nerves
• Depersonalization disorder: A disorder where the patient suffers episodes of loss of sense of self or reality.
• Desmoplastic cerebral astrocytoma of infancy: A rare type of brain tumor that occurs in infants. The tumor consists of cancerous astrocytes.
• Desmoplastic infantile ganglioma: A rare type of brain tumor that occurs in infants. The tumor may be slow-growing and benign or fast-growing and malignant.
• Devic disease: A rare nerve disorder involving demyelination of spinal cord and eye nerves.
• Diabetes-like symptoms: Symptoms similar to those of diabetes
• Diphtheria: Infectious bacterial respiratory disease
• Dobrow syndrome: A very rare syndrome characterized mainly by abnormal webbing inside the mouth, short stature, eye problems, mental retardation and small head, jaw, eyes and mouth.
• Donepezil toxicity: The toxic reaction of the body to the substance, possibly via allergic reaction or overdose.
• Dysbarism: A reaction caused by exposure to a sudden change in environmental pressure.
• Eijkman's syndrome: A group of nervous symptoms that is associated with vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency. The deficiency leads to a condition called Beri-Beri. Severe cases result in progressive paralysis leading to convulsions and death as the nerves become increasingly inflamed and wasted.
• Elapid poisoning: Sea snakes, Kraits and cobras are from the Elapid group of snakes. The toxicity of the venom varies depending on the species. The venom is usually toxic to the nerves or heart. Early symptoms such as drowsiness can occur within 30 minutes with more severe symptoms developing over the next few hours. Severe envenomation can result in death within hours.
• Elbow paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the elbow due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Electrical burns: Burns caused when an electric current pass through the body or part of it. The symptoms and severity of the burn depends on the strength of the electrical current, the duration of the exposure and the part of the body involved. Prompt treatment in more severe cases can improve the prognosis.
• Encephalitis: Infection of the brain (as a symptom)
• Encephaloceles: Improper protrusions of parts of the meninges and brain.
• Enterovirus antenatal infection: Fetal infection with enterovirus. The condition is extremely rare but infection around the time of birth often results in death or paralysis in survivors. The type and severity of symptoms is determined by the exact type of virus involved and at what stage of development the infection occurs.
• Enteroviruses: Viruses affecting the digestive tract.
• Epilepsy: Paroxysmal transient disturbances of brain function that may manifest as loss of consciousness, abnormal motor phenomena
• Epileptic encephalopathy, early infantile, 4: A genetic form of epilepsy which is severe and starts during infancy. This form of the condition is caused by a defect on the STXBP1 gene.
• Erb's Palsy: Paralysis of the arm or hand often related to childbirth injury (also Brachial plexus palsy).
• Everlasting pea poisoning: The everlasting pea is a vine which bears pink, pea-like flowers and flat seed pods. It's usually found growing in the wild in many parts of the world. The seeds contains various chemicals (amines, phenol, glycoside) which can cause poisoning symptoms if large quantities are eaten.
• Extradural hematoma: Bleeding in the skull outside the brain
• Eye paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the eye due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Eyelid paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the eyelid due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Fabry's Disease: An inherited metabolic disorder where phospholipids are deposited mostly in the blood vessels as well as other tissues and organs. Symptoms include skin lesions, small red spots on the abdomen, thighs and scrotum, fever, peripheral edema, hypertension and renal failure. Also called angiokeratoma corporis diffusion, Anderson's syndrome, Anderson-Fabry disease, Morbus Anderson-Fabry, Ruiter-Pompen syndrome or Sweeley-Klionsky disease.
• Facial asymetry - temporal seizures: A rare condition characterized mainly by seizures that originate from the temporal lobe of the brain.
• Facial asymmetry - temporal seizures: A rare condition characterized mainly by seizures that originate from the temporal lobe of the brain as well as facial asymmetry.
• Facial paralysis: Paralysis of one or both sides of the face
• Fahr's Syndrome: A rare neurologic disorder where calcium is deposited in various parts of the brain resulting in progressive loss of motor and mental function.
• Familial infantile metachromatic leukodystrophy - late infantile: An infantile form of an inherited biochemical disorder involving a deficiency of an enzyme called cerebroside sulfatase. The enzyme deficiency causes cerebroside sulfate to build up within the body and causes damage to the nervous system including the brain. The late infantile form of this disease is much more common than the juvenile or adult form.
• Female carrier ALD: Mild form of ALD in female carriers
• Fetterbush poisoning: Fetterbush is an evergreen shrub which bears elongated spikes of small, urn-shaped flowers. The plant is found mainly in the US. The leaves and flower nectar contain andromedotoxin which is very poisonous if eaten. Severe poisoning can result in death.
• Fever: Raised body temperature usually with other symptoms.
• Fibrocartilaginous embolism: A rare disorder where some of the material from a vertebral disc enters the blood supply to the spinal cord where it causes an obstruction. Symptoms are determined by where the obstruction occurs. The obstruction causes damage to part of the spinal cord resulting in neurological symptoms which can result in death depending on the size and location of the obstruction.
• Finger paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the finger due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Fisher (M.) syndrome: A rare type of nerve disease involving muscle coordination problems, eye muscle paralysis and absent reflexes. It appears to be caused by the body's own immune system destroying the protective layer around nerves. The condition is usually preceded by a viral illness and is not life-threatening.
• Flaccid paralysis: A condition which is characterized by marked
• Flax poisoning: Flax is slender-stemmed herb which bears blue flowers and capsulated fruit containing smooth brown seeds. The plant originated in Europe but is found in many parts of the world growing wild. The plant contains a chemical called linomarin (a cyanogenic glycoside) which can cause symptoms if eaten in large quantities. Skin irritation can also result from skin exposure.
• Florida leucothoe poisoning: The Florida leucothoe is a shrubby plant often grown in gardens. The leaves contain andromedotoxin which can cause serious symptoms if eaten. The plant is considered very poisonous and can result in death if sufficient quantities of leaves are consumed.
• Focal cortical dysplasia type II: Abnormal development of the brain cortex which results in severe, untreatable seizures which occur several times a day.
• Focal cortical dysplasia type IIA: Abnormal development of the brain cortex which results in severe, untreatable seizures which occur several times a day. Type IIA is distinguished by the lack of balloon cells wheras type IIB has balloon cells present. Balloon cells are abnormal cells in the brain tissue.
• Focal cortical dysplasia type IIB: Abnormal development of the brain cortex which results in severe, untreatable seizures which occur several times a day. Type IIB is distinguished by the presence of balloon cells wheras type IIA has no balloon cells present. Balloon cells are abnormal cells in the brain tissue.
• Foix-Alajouanine syndrome: A rare type of spinal cord disease caused by malformations in blood vessels supplying the spinal cord. Insufficient blood flow to the spinal cord causes muscle problems.
• Foot paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the foot due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Fowl Paralysis: A viral disease that affects poultry - it is very contagious and is a herpes virus. The virus tends to affect the nerves and cause tumors in internal organs. Poultry may be unable to lay eggs or may even die. Young birds are more susceptible than older birds with death most common between the ages of 8 and 20 weeks. The virus may attack the nervous system and result in paralysis or it may attack the visceral system and cause tumors in the internal organs. Some birds may die without any obvious symptoms.
• Fowl paralyses: A viral disease that affects poultry - it is very contagious and is a herpes virus. The virus tends to affect the nerves and cause tumors in internal organs. Poultry may be unable to lay eggs or may even die. Young birds are more susceptible than older birds with death most common between the ages of 8 and 20 weeks. The virus may attack the nervous system and result in paralysis or it may attack the visceral system and cause tumors in the internal organs. Some birds may die without any obvious symptoms.
• Fractures: Breakage of bones
• Fucosidosis type 1: A rare biochemical disorder involving deficiency of an enzyme (alpha-fucosidase) which results in accumulation of certain chemicals (glycosphingolipids) in the central nervous system and other body tissues. It is an infantile form of fucosidosis which starts early and rapidly progresses to early death.
• Fucosidosis type II: A form of the biochemical disorder called fucosidosis where an enzyme deficiency (alpha-fucosidase) results in the accumulation of certain chemicals (glycosphingolipids) in the central nervous system and other body tissues. Symptoms start later and progress slower than in type I and is distinguished by warty skin growths.
• Functioning pancreatic endocrine tumor: Tumors that develop in the pancreas and cause excessive secretion of one or more pancreatic hormones such as insulin, somatostatin, glucagons, gastrin, ACTH (corticosteroids) and vasoactive intestinal peptidase.
• Fungal meningitis: Fungal meningitis is an infection that causes swelling and irritation of the tissue around the brain and spinal cord. It usually strikes people whose weakened immune systems can't fight off infection. The disease is not common. but it can be very serious.
• GM2-gangliosidosis, AB variant: A very rare inherited disorder where the brain and spinal cord nerve cells (central nervous system) are progressively destroyed.
• Gangliosidosis, generalized GM1 type 2: A rare biochemical disorder involving a deficiency of an enzyme (beta-galactosidase 1) which results in the accumulation of harmful chemicals (GM1 gangliosides) in the central nervous system and other body tissues. Type III involves a lesser degree of accumulation than type II or I. Death can occur early in life in severe cases but milder cases can survive into late childhood.
• Gelineau's syndrome: A neurological disorder sudden uncontrollable urge to sleep, sleep paralysis and other symptoms.
• Golden Chain tree poisoning: The Golden Chain tree is a relatively small tree which produces bright yellow flowers. The plant contains a chemical called cytisine which can cause similar effects to nicotine if ingested and can be serious if patients have underlying health problems. All parts of the plant are poisonous if sufficient quantities are consumed.
• Graves disease: A condition which is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid resulting hyperthyroidism
• Guam disease: A nerve degeneration disorder that occurs particularly in Guam and involves progressive dementia and parkinsonism which ultimately leads to death.
• Guillain-Barre Syndrome: An acute condition which is characterized by polyradiculoneuropathy that affects the peripheral nervous system
• Guillain-Barre syndrome: An acute condition which is characterized by polyradiculoneuropathy that affects the peripheral nervous system
• HERNS syndrome: A rare inherited syndrome characterized by blood vessel disease which causes eye and kidney disease and strokes. Neurological manifestations tend to occur around the 2nd and 3rd decade of life due to the blood vessels in the brain being affected.
• HIV/AIDS: HIV is a sexually transmitted virus and AIDS is the progressive immune failure that HIV causes.
• Head injury: Any injury that occurs to the head
• Head trauma: injury to the haed
• Heerfordt syndrome: A disorder sometimes associated with sarcoidosis and characterized by inflammation of the uvea of the eye, enlarged salivary gland, fever and facial paralysis.
• Hemiparesis: One-sided paralysis of the body
• Hemipariesis: Slight or partial paralysis of one side of the body.
• Hemiplegia: Paralysis of one side of the body.
• Hendra Virus: A paramyxoviridae virus that is transmitted from animals to humans from body fluids and excretions
• Herbal Agent overdose - Lobelia: Lobelia can be used as a herbal agent to treat respiratory congestion, muscle spasms and to assist in quitting smoking. The herbal agent contains a certain chemicals which can imitate the effects of nicotine but which can cause various symptoms if excessive quantities are taken.
• Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia: A slow-progressing degeneration of the tract that connects the brain to the spinal cord (corticospinal tract) resulting in muscle spasticity, weakness and paralysis. The severity of symptoms is determined by the nature and extent of the damage.
• Hereditary peripheral nervous disorder: A group of inherited disorders affecting the peripheral nerves (nerves other than the brain and spinal cord). The motor, sensory and/or autonomic nerves may be affected. Examples of such conditions includes Dejerine-Sottas disease and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
• Herpes zoster oticus: Facial and auditory effects of herpes zoster
• Herring poisoning (clupeotoxin): Some herrings contain toxins (Clupeotoxin) which can be poisonous to humans if eaten. Heat does not destroy the toxin and there is still uncertainty as to the origin of the toxin. The toxin appears to be present in higher concentrations in summer and is believed to be possible linked to the consumption of toxic food in its food web. The size and age of the herring does not appear to be related to the toxicity. The herrings are found in coastal waters off Africa and the Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Oceans.
• Hip cancer: The presence of tumour growth in the bone of the hip, whether due to primary malignancies e.g. leukaemic or myeloma infiltration of the bone marrow, or due to secondary metastases from another site e.g. lung or breast; cancer affecting bone of hip likely to affect other bones e.g. vertebra, ribs
• Hodgkin's Disease: A form of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.
• Hodgkin's disease, adult: A type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system in adults. The lymphatic system forms part of the body's immune system. This type of cancer can also occur in children.
• Hodgkin's disease, childhood: A type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system in children. The lymphatic system forms part of the body's immune system. This type of cancer can also occur in children.
• Homocystinuria syndrome: A rare genetic connective tissue disorder caused by an enzyme deficiency and characterized by dislocation of eye lens, malar flush and osteoporosis.
• Horseshoe Crab poisoning: The Asiatic horseshoe crab is eaten mainly in parts of Asia. Various parts of the crab become toxic during the reproductive season - flesh, unlaid green eggs and viscera. Poisoning most often occurs in Thailand. Eating the crabs should be avoided during reproductive season as poisoning can readily result in death.
• Hydranencephaly: A very rare condition where fluid replaces a portion of the brain.
• Hydrocephalus: A condition which is characterized by marked dilatation of the cerebral ventricles
• Hyper-IgE syndrome, autosomal recessive: A recessively inherited immunodeficiency disorder characterized by excessive production of IgE and frequent bacterial infections mainly involving the skin. There is no skeletal involvement as in the dominantly inherited form of the condition.
• Hyperadrenalism: Excessive levels of adrenal hormones in the body. Symptoms depend on which hormone is involved and the degree of involvement. Adrenal hormones are aldosterone, corticosteroids, androgenic steroids, epinephrine and norepinephrine.
• Hyperkalemia: Abnormally high levels of potassium in the blood
• Hypokalemia: Abnormally low levels of potassium in the blood.
• Hypokalemic periodic paralysis: A rare inherited muscle condition characterized by periods of severe muscle weakness or paralysis which can last from hours to days. Episodes can occur as often as daily or only rarely.
• Hypopigmented lesions in children:
• Hypothyroidism: The decreased activity of the thyroid gland
• Hysteria: hysteria describes a state of mind, one of unmanageable fear or emotional excesses
• Incontinentia Pigmenti: A rare genetic skin pigmentation disorder characterized by eye, teeth, bone, nail and hair malformations as well as central nervous abnormalities and mental deficiency.
• Indian Tobacco poisoning: The Indian Tobacco plant contains alkaloids such as lobeline which can result in similar effects to nicotine. The plant is sometimes used in herbal preparations which is usually how poisoning occurs.
• Infantile onset spinocerebellar ataxia: A rare disorder that has neurological origins and causes progressive ataxia, impaired tendon reflexes, abnormal limb movements, and sensory, eye muscle and hearing impairment.
• Injury: Any damage inflicted in the body
• Insulinoma: A rare form of pancreatic cancer that causes excessive secretion of the hormone insulin. A relatively small number of cases are malignant.
• Intercostal neuralgia: Nerve pain affecting the ribs
• Internal carotid agenesis: A very rare malformation where the carotid artery fails to develop. Other brain blood vessels enlarge to try to compensate for the defect and this leads to compression of parts of the brain which can cause neurological symptoms. The severity of symptoms is determined by how well the existing brain blood vessels are able to compensate for the absence of the carotid artery.
• Intracranial Hemorrhages: Bleeding inside the skull. The condition is a medical emergency and the greater the bleeding, the more severe the condition.
• Japanese andromeda poisoning: An evergreen flowering shrub originating from Asia. The leaves and flower nectar contain a chemical called andromedotoxin which is highly toxic. Ingesting the leaves or nectar can result in death as the plant is considered highly toxic.
• Japanese encephalitis: A form of encephalitis caused by a flavivirus (Japanese B encephalitis virus - JBEV) and transmitted by mosquito bites. Most cases are mild and asymptomatic but severe cases can lead to death.
• Jaw paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the jaw due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Jessamine poisoning: Jessamine is an evergreen shrub which bears aromatic flowers and small white or purplish berries. It is often utilized as a houseplant or grown in gardens. The unripe berries contain various alkaloids which can be toxic if large quantities of the berries are eaten.
• Katayama fever: An acute disease due to infection with Schistosoma parasites. Transmission can occur through contact with infected waters.
• Kearns-Sayre Syndrome: A rare neuromuscular disorder characterized by pigmented deposits on the retina, heart disease and progressive paralysis of some eye muscles.
• King Cobra poisoning: The King Cobra is a large venomous snake usually found in southeast Asia and India. Most bites from this snake results in envenomation due to the ferocity of their bite. The poison primarily affects the neuromuscular system but can also affect blood clotting.
• Klippel Feil Syndrome: A rare congenital disorder characterized by abnormal fusion of two or more vertebrae in the neck. The disorder is often associated with other abnormalities but their incidence is highly variable.
• Klippel-Feil syndrome recessive type: A rare recessively inherited disorder characterized by abnormal fusion of two or more vertebrae in the neck. The disorder is often associated with other abnormalities but their incidence is highly variable.
• Klippel-Feil syndrome, dominant type: A rare dominantly inherited disorder characterized by abnormal fusion of two or more vertebrae in the neck. The disorder is often associated with other abnormalities but their incidence is highly variable.
• Knee paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the knee due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Krabbé Disease: Brain myelin disorder with various symptoms.
• Lathyrism: A condition caused by eating certain legumes from the Lathyrus genus of plants. Some of the spacies involved are Lathyrus sativa, cicera, ochrus and clymenum. The chemicals within the legumes of these plants are toxic to the nerves.
• Lead poisoning: A type of heavy metal poisoning caused by excessive exposure to lead.
• Leg paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the leg due to either a muscular or neural mechanism
• Leukoencephalopathy, arthritis, colitis, and hypogammaglobulinema: A rare condition characterized by the association of arthritis, colitis, low blood gammaglobulin levels and brain anomalies.
• Lissauer paralysis: Diffuse degeneration of one side of the cerebral cortex which causes dementia, weakness and seizures.
• Lobelia poisoning: Lobelia is a herbaceous plant which bears elongated shafts of small blue, white or red flowers. The plant contains alkaloids such as lobeline which can result in similar effects to nicotine. The plant is sometimes used in herbal preparations which is usually how poisoning occurs.
• Lupus: Autoimmune disease with numerous effects on various organs and linings.
• Lyme disease: Lyme disease is an emerging infectious disease caused by at least three species of bacteria belonging to the genus Borrelia.
• Lymphocytic choriomeningitis: Rodent-borne viral disease often causing meningitis or encephalitis
• MELAS: A mitochondrial disorder characterized by stroke-like episodes, headaches, vomiting and other neurological symptoms.
• Malignant astrocytoma: A very malignant primary brain tumor consisting of astrocytes. The tumor spreads throughout the brain and a third of patients dying in the first year.
• Malnutrition: Any disorder that relates to inadequate intake of nutrients.
• Mareck's disease - nervous system: A viral disease that affects poultry - it is very contagious and is a herpes virus. The virus tends to affect the nerves and cause tumors in internal organs. Poultry may be unable to lay eggs or may even die. Young birds are more susceptible than older birds with death most common between the ages of 8 and 20 weeks. The virus may attack the nervous system and result in paralysis or it may attack the visceral system and cause tumors in the internal organs. Some birds may die without any obvious symptoms.
• Mareck's disease - visceral: A viral disease that affects poultry - it is very contagious and is a herpes virus. The virus tends to affect the nerves and cause tumors in internal organs. Poultry may be unable to lay eggs or may even die. Young birds are more susceptible than older birds with death most common between the ages of 8 and 20 weeks. The virus may attack the nervous system and result in paralysis or it may attack the visceral system and cause tumors in the internal organs. Some birds may die without any obvious symptoms.
• Marek disease: A viral disease that affects poultry - it is very contagious and is a herpes virus. The virus tends to affect the nerves and cause tumors in internal organs. Poultry may be unable to lay eggs or may even die. Young birds are more susceptible than older birds with death most common between the ages of 8 and 20 weeks. The virus may attack the nervous system and result in paralysis or it may attack the visceral system and cause tumors in the internal organs. Some birds may die without any obvious symptoms.
• Marek's disease: A viral disease that affects poultry - it is very contagious and is a herpes virus. The virus tends to affect the nerves and cause tumors in internal organs. Poultry may be unable to lay eggs or may even die. Young birds are more susceptible than older birds with death most common between the ages of 8 and 20 weeks. The virus may attack the nervous system and result in paralysis or it may attack the visceral system and cause tumors in the internal organs. Some birds may die without any obvious symptoms.
• Mayapple poisoning: The Mayapple is a small flowering plant which is often found growing naturally. It bears small single flowers and apple-like fruit which turns yellow when ripe. The unripe fruit and leaves contain a chemical called podophyllin which can cause poisoning if eaten. The plant is considered highly toxic and death can occur if sufficient quantities are eaten. The leaves, roots and unripe fruit are toxic but the ripe fruit is edible. The plant has been used to treat venereal warts.
• Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome: A rare inherited neurological disorder involving episodes of facial paralysis and swelling.
• Memory loss: The loss of ones ability to recall from their memory.
• Mental retardation, X-linked - corpus callosum agenesis - spastic quadriparesis: A rare disorder characterized by mental retardation, abnormal development of a part of the brain called the corpus callosum and spastic quadriparesis. The disorder is inherited in a X-linked manner which means that only males display the full range of symptoms whereas female carriers may have mild or no symptoms.
• Mercury poisoning: A type of heavy metal poisoning caused by excessive exposure to mercury.
• Mercury poisoning - Folk Remedies: Various folk remedies and medicines contain inorganic mercury and mercury salts. They can lead to mercury poisoning and severe cases can result in death. Children tend to be more sensitive to the effects of mercury poisoning than adults. Even low levels of exposure can cause neurological symptoms in infants and young children. Fetal exposure to mercury can also result in symptoms.
• Mercury poisoning - consumption of contaminated fish: Eating fish contaminated with mercury can lead to mercury poisoning in humans. The severity and range of symptoms experienced can vary greatly depending on the level and duration of exposure. Severe poisoning can lead to death. Pregnant women who eat mercury contaminated fish may give birth to infants who suffer symptoms such as ataxia, tremors, seizures, mental retardation and cerebral palsy. An epidemic was reported where hundreds of Japanese villagers suffered mercury poisoning after eating fish contaminated by a nearby factory. Nearly half of the victims eventually died and children born during that period suffered a variety of neurological problems.
• Mesothelioma, adult malignant: A rare type of malignant cancer that occurs in the pleura (chest lining) or peritoneum (abdominal lining). The cancer develops in people who have inhaled asbestos fibres. Symptoms tend to occur many years or even decades after the exposure.
• Mesothelioma, adult malignant - pleural: A rare type of malignant cancer that occurs in the pleura (chest lining). The cancer develops in people who have inhaled asbestos fibers. Symptoms tend to occur many years or even decades after the exposure.
• Metachromatic Leukodystrophy: An inherited biochemical deficiency involving a deficiency of the enzyme called arylsulfatase A which leads to a harmful buildup of fatty material in the body.
• Metastatic insulinoma: A rare form of pancreatic cancer that causes excessive secretion of the hormone insulin and can spread to other parts of the body (metastasis).
• Metatropic dwarfism: A rare genetic disorder characterized by extremely small stature, short limbs and skeletal abnormalities.
• Methylmalonicaciduria, vitamin B12 unresponsive, mut 0: A metabolic disorder whose severity is somewhat variable - most patients die within months of birth with survivors having neurological problems. The condition involves abnormal metabolism of vitamin B12 which doesn't respond to treatment using vitamin B12 administration. This disorder is more severe than the mut (-) form
• Microcephaly: A smaller than average brain
• Microcephaly with spastic quadriplegia: A very rare disorder characterized by an abnormally small head and quadriplegia.
• Microencephaly: Small brain. The condition is often characterized by a small head and neurological problems. The type and severity of symptoms are variable.
• Migraine: Severe complex headaches that occur periodically
• Minicore myopathy with external ophthalmoplegia: A rare congenital muscle disorder involving muscle weakness and wasting. The term minicore comes from the small core structures that occur in the muscle tissue. There are four subgroups of the disorder: classic form (rigid spine syndrome), progressive form with hand involvement, antenatal form with arthrogryposis multiplex congenital and the ophthalmoplegic form. The ophthalmoplegic form is distinguished by the presence of eye muscle weakness. The severity of symptoms is variable.
• Mobius syndrome: Type of facial paralysis.
• Moebius syndrome 1: A very rare syndrome characterized mainly by facial paralysis due to problems with 6th and 7th nerve development (Moebius sequence) and ophthalmoplegia.
• Monkshood poisoning: Monkshood is a poisonous plant with distinctive flowers. The perennial plant is native to Europe but is also grown in parts of the US and is sometimes used as a medicinal herb.
• Motor neuron diseases: Any of various disorders of the "motor neurons", nerves that control movement.
• Mountain Laurel poisoning: The mountain laurel is a large evergreen shrub which bears clusters of small flowers. The plant contains chemicals (andromedotoxin, arbutin) which can cause poisoning symptoms if eaten. The plant is considered highly toxic if ingested. The level of toxicity varies amongst species but it is unlikely that eating less than three leaves or flowers would cause symptoms.
• Mountain andromeda poisoning: The Mountain Andromeda is an evergreen flowering shrub bearing elongated clusters of white flowers. The leaves and flower nectar contain a chemical called andromedotoxin which is highly toxic. Ingesting the leaves or nectar can result in death as the plant is considered highly toxic.
• Movement symptoms: Changes to movement or motor abilities
• Moyamoya Syndrome: A very rare disorder involving progressive blocked arteries at the base of the brain (basal ganglia).
• Moyamoya disease: Brain blood vessel disorder.
• Multiple Sclerosis: Autoimmune attack on spinal nerves causing diverse and varying neural problems.
• Multiple myeloma: A rare malignant cancer that occurs in the bone marrow. More common in skull, spine, rib cage, pelvis and legs.
• Muscle paralysis: The inability to use a muscle
• Muscle weakness: Weakness of the muscles or loss of tone
• Muscular Dystrophy: Any of various muscle wasting diseases
• Myasthenia Gravis: An autoimmune disorder which interferes with nerve impulses to muscles and hence results in weak, easily fatigued muscles.
• Myopathy - ophthalmoplegia - hypoacousia - areflexia: A rare disorder characterized mainly by muscle weakness, paralysis of eye muscles, lack of reflexes and partial hearing loss.
• N syndrome: A rare genetic disorder characterized by mental and physical retardation, eye abnormalities, retarded growth, hearing impairment and a high risk of developing cancers, particularly leukemia. It is an extremely rare condition originally described in two brothers.
• Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy is characterized by the classic tetrad of excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, hypnagogic hallucinations, and sleep paralysis.
• Nephronophtisis familial, adult form - spastic quadriparesia: A rare familial condition characterized by kidney disease and spastic quadriparesis.
• Nerve compression: Compression of a nerve that becomes trapped in a confined space due to any cause e.g. trauma, inflammation or a disease process. This usually occurs near joints. The resulting pressure on the nerve can be very painful and if left untreated can result in damage to the nerve and eventually muscle weakness and wasting. Conditions such as bone spurs, joint swelling due to injury, cysts and trauma can result in nerve entrapment. The exact symptoms will depend on which nerve is trapped and the duration and severity of the entrapment.
• Nerve entrapment: Compression of a nerve that becomes trapped in a confined space due to any cause e.g. trauma, inflammation or a disease process. This usually occurs near joints. The resulting pressure on the nerve can be very painful and if left untreated can result in damage to the nerve and eventually muscle weakness and wasting. Conditions such as bone spurs, joint swelling due to injury, cysts and trauma can result in nerve entrapment. The exact symptoms will depend on which nerve is trapped and the duration and severity of the entrapment.
• Nerve symptoms: Symptoms affecting the nerves
• Neural tube defect: Any defect that occurs to the neural tube
• Neurofibromatosis-2: Genetic disorder often leading to tumors on nerves.
• Neuropathy sensory spastic paraplegia: A very rare syndrome characterized mainly by sensory nerve degeneration and spastic paraplegia. The extremities of the hands and feet have reduced pain sensation and disfiguring ulcers tend to develop.
• Neuropathy, distal hereditary motor, type VIIA: An inherited neuromuscular disease that causes progressive muscle wasting and weakness in the limbs and vocal cord paralysis. There is no sensory impairment.
• Neuropathy, hereditary, sensory, radicular: A rare inherited degenerative disorder of the nervous system characterized by sensory loss in limbs, pain and foot ulcers.
• Neurosyphilis: Syphilis affecting the nervous system.
• Neurosyphilis - general paresis: A complication of untreated syphilis where the infection invades the brain cells and causes a range of neurological symptoms. The condition is progressive and life-threatening.
• Neurosyphilis - meningovascular: A complication of untreated syphilis where the infection invades the central nervous system and causes cranial nerve palsies and pupil abnormalities.
• Neurosyphilis - tabes dorsalis: A complication of untreated syphilis where the infection invades the spinal cord and progressively impairs muscle function and nerve damage may also occur. This form of the condition is progressive and life-threatening.
• Normokalemic periodic paralysis: A rare disorder characterized by periods of muscle weakness that is not associated with abnormal potassium levels.
• Numbness: Loss of feeling or sensation
• Nyssen-Van Bogaert syndrome: An adult form of an inherited biochemical disorder involving a deficiency of an enzyme called cerebroside sulfatase. The enzyme deficiency causes cerebroside sulfate to build up within the body and causes damage to the nervous system including the brain.
• Ocular Muscular Dystrophy: A slow progressing paralysis of the muscles surrounding the eyes. Eventually the eyes are unable to move.
• Organophosphate insecticide poisoning: Excessive ingestion of organophosphate insecticides. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the exact poison ingested and the quantity.
• Osteopetrosis autosomal dominant type 2: A very rare dominantly inherited syndrome characterized mainly by increased bone density that affects mostly the spine, pelvis and base of the skull. The increased bone density results because old bone is not resorbed and replaced with new bone.
• Paget's disease of bone: A chronic, slowly progressing bone disorder where the bone is destroyed rapidly and replaced by abnormal bone which is dense and fragile.
• Paragonimiases - lung infection: Infection by a parasitic worm, Paragonimus westermani, which are a type of lung fluke which invade the lungs and other organs where they cause problems. Infection occurs through eating freshwater crabs and crayfish which have not been cooked sufficiently.
• Paralysis symptoms: Loss of body control and/or feeling.
• Paralytic shellfish poisoning: Rare food poisoning from eating contaminated shellfish
• Paraplegia: Paralysis of the lower half of the body.
• Paraplegia - brachydactyly - cone-shaped epiphysis: A very rare syndrome characterized mainly by paraplegia, short fingers and bone abnormalities. The paraplegia progresses slowly.
• Parasomnia: Parasomnia are a category of sleep disorders that involve abnormal and unnatural movements, behaviors, emotions, perceptions, and dreams that occur while falling asleep, sleeping, between sleep stages, or arousal from sleep.
• Paresthesias: Tingling, prickling, numbness or burning sensations
• Parkinson's Disease: Degenerative brain condition characterised by tremor.
• Partial paralysis: The partial paralysis of the musculoskeletal system
• Peach seed poisoning: Peach seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. The toxic chemicals are not released if the seed remains intact and therefore poisoning usually occurs if the seeds are crushed and eaten. Accidental ingestion is very unusual. Most parts of the peach plant contain the toxic chemical with the highest concentration in young leaves.
• Peripheral neuropathy: Any loss in the function of the peripheral nervous system
• Pernettya poisoning: Pernettya is a shrubby plant found mainly in the southern parts of the world. It is often utilized as an ornamental shrub. The leaves, berries and flower nectar contain a chemical called andromedotoxin which can cause symptoms if eaten. Serious cases of poisoning can result in death.
• Persian violet poisoning: The persian violet is a small flowering herb which bears red, pink or white scented flowers. It is often used as an ornamental indoor or outdoor plant or in floral arrangements. If large quantities of the root (rhizome) of the plant are eaten, poisoning symptoms can result. Skin contact with the roots can result in minor skin irritation. Poisoning is unlikely due to the bitter taste of the root.
• Pituitary apoplexy: A rare disorder usually caused by bleeding or blood vessel blockage of a pituitary tumor. It causes symptoms such as headache, nausea, vision problems and altered consciousness.
• Plant poisoning - Acetylandromedol: Acetylandromedol is a chemical found naturally in plants from the Ericaceae family which includes rhodendrons. Human poisoning can occur through eating honey made from pollen and nectar from these flowers or from eating other parts of the plant. The severity of symptoms may vary from mild to life-threatening depending on the amount consumed.
• Plant poisoning - Aconitum: Aconitum is a toxin found in certain plants from the Aconitum genus e.g. Monkshood. It is a highly poisonous neurotoxin that affects the heart and other parts of the body. It can cause serious symptoms and even death in severe cases. The toxin can be absorbed through the skin to some degree.
• Plant poisoning - Andromedotoxin: Andromedotoxin is a toxin found naturally in plants such as aloe vera, senna, rhubarb and Cascara buckthorn. The main symptoms are gastrointestinal which can range in severity depending on the amount consumed. Severe cases can result in kidney damage and gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Plant poisoning - Conline: Conline is a toxin found naturally in plants such as aloe vera, senna, rhubarb and Cascara buckthorn. The main symptoms are gastrointestinal which can range in severity depending on the amount consumed. Severe cases can result in kidney damage and gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Plant poisoning - Cytisine: Cytisine is a chemical found naturally in plants from the Faboideae family e.g. Laburnum, Cytisus, Genista and Sophora. It tends to have an effect similar to nicotine.
• Plant poisoning - Grayanotoxin: Grayanotoxin is a chemical found naturally in plants from the Ericaceae family which includes rhodendrons. Human poisoning can occur through eating honey made from pollen and nectar from these flowers or from eating other parts of the plant. The severity of symptoms may vary from mild to life-threatening depending on the amount consumed.
• Plant poisoning - Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata): Ingestion of parts of the Indian tobacco plant may cause various symptoms and severe cases may result in a coma.
• Plant poisoning - Lobeline: Lobeline is a chemical found naturally in plants called lobelias. Ingesting plants containing the chemical produces symptoms similar to the effects of nicotine.
• Plant poisoning - Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum): Ingestion of parts of the Poison hemlock plant may cause various symptoms and severe cases may result in a coma.
• Plant poisoning - Rhodotoxin: Rhodotoxin is a chemical found naturally in rhodendrons. Human poisoning can occur through eating honey made from pollen and nectar from these flowers or from eating other parts of the plant. The severity of symptoms may vary from mild to life-threatening depending on the amount consumed.
• Plant poisoning - Tetranortriterpene: Tetranortriterpene is a toxin that occurs naturally in some plants (e.g. Chinaberry tree). It functions as a natural insect repellant but is toxic to the human nervous system. Ingesting plant parts with this chemical can cause poisoning symptoms.
• Plant poisoning - tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum): Ingestion of parts of the tobacco plant may cause various symptoms and severe cases may result in a coma.
• Polio: Dangerous virus now rare due to vaccination.
• Poliomyelitis: Dangerous virus now rare due to vaccination.
• Polyarteritis nodosa: A serious blood vessel disease where small and medium-sized arteries become swollen and damaged and are unable to adequately supply oxygenated blood to various tissues in the body. The disease can occur in a mild form or a serious, rapidly fatal form.
• Polyradiculoneuropathy: An inflammatory disorder that affects the peripheral nerves and the spinal nerve roots. The onset and progression of the disease is variable with severe cases resulting in premature death. The condition is chronic and progressive but periodic relapses can occur.
• Porencephaly: A central nervous system disorder involving cysts in the brain cortex caused by stroke, infection or genetic anomaly.
• Porphyria: A group of disorders characterized by excess production of porphyrin or its precursors which affects the skin and/or nervous system.
• Porphyria, Ala-D: A very rare inherited disorder where involving a lack of the enzyme delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase.
• Post-vaccinial encephalitis: Post-vaccinial encephalitis is a brain infection that occurs after a smallpox vaccination.
• Primary Hyperaldosteronism: An adrenal gland disorder where excess aldosterone hormone is produced resulting in symptoms such as headache, fatigue, nocturia and increased urine production. Also called Conn's syndrome.
• Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy: Progressive degenerative condition of the brain.
• Progressive cerebellocerebral atrophy: A rare progressive disorder characterized mainly by a small head, mental retardation and spastic quadriplegia. The disorder most often occurs in children with a severe lack of oxygen around the time of birth or in infants who have had a congenital infection. Some cases are believed to be familial and involve no infection or low oxygen problems.
• Proprioception: is the sense of the relative position of neighbouring parts of the body large increases or drops in bodyweight, it may be abnormal in certain conditions new levels of flexibility
• Proximal spinal muscular atrophy, type 1: A type of spinal muscular atrophy which is a progressive genetic motor neuron disease involving the nerves and muscles. The condition is relatively rare and is characterized by muscle weakness which leads to structural deformities and loss or reduced capability of normal body movements. SMA type I is the most debilitating form as muscular weakness is evident at birth and diagnosis usually occurs within the first three months.
• Putti-Chavany syndrome: Irritation of one of the sciatic nerves which causes back and foot pain followed by reduced pain and paralysis and sensory abnormalities in the foot.
• Quadriparesis: Weakness of all four limbs, both arms and both legs
• Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four limbs and usually the entire trunk from the neck down; due to spinal cord damage at level of cervical spine (neck).
• Rabies: An infectious disease that can affect any mammal including humans and is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. The infectious agent is the Neurotropic lyssavirus which affects the salivary gland and also causes neurological symptoms.
• Radiation-Induced Brachial Plexopathy: A nerve injury that occurs as a complication of radiation treatment to the upper chest area.
• Radiculopathy: A condition characterized by disease of the nerve roots
• Ramsay Hunt I syndrome: Reactivation of the chicken pox virus wich affects the facial nerves.
• Rasmussen subacute encephalitis: A very rare progressive brain disease possibly caused by immune system problems. Symptoms become progressively worse and then the condition often stabilizes with a long life possible despite permanent neurological damage.
• Rasmussen's Encephalitis: Rare possibly-autoimmune brain condition.
• Red Whelk poisoning: Red Whelk are colorful, carnivorous snail found mainly in Britain and Japan. The salivary gland of some whelks contains tetramine which can cause symptoms in humans if eaten. Raw, cooked or canned whelk can cause poisoning. Red whelk have the highest concentration of toxins in the summer. Whelk is often used as fish bait.
• Red buckeye poisoning: The red buckeye is a shrubby plant which bears a cluster of small red flowers and brown seeds with distinctive pale markings. The plant originated in the US. The seeds and leaves contain various chemicals (glycoside aesculin, saponin aescin and alkaloids) which can cause poisoning symptoms if eaten. The plant is considered very toxic and death can result in cases of severe poisoning.
• Rib symptoms: Symptoms affecting the ribs
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever: A bacterial disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by ticks. The condition causes fever and a characteristic rash and may be fatal in severe or untreated cases.
• SPG: A group of neurodegenerative disorders involving progressive spasticity and increased reflexes in the legs. The rate of progression and severity is variable depending on the subtype involved.
• Salivary gland cancer: Salivary gland cancer is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the salivary glands in the mouth, neck or throat
• Sarcoidosis: Rare autoimmune disease usually affecting the lungs.
• Sardine poisoning (clupeotoxin): Some sardines contain toxins (Clupeotoxin) which can be poisonous to humans if eaten. Heat does not destroy the toxin and there is still uncertainty as to the origin of the toxin. The toxin appears to be present in higher concentrations in summer and is believed to be possible linked to the consumption of toxic food in its food web. The size and age of the sardines does not appear to be related to the toxicity. The sardines are found in coastal waters off Africa and the Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Oceans.
• Scapuloperoneal syndrome, neurogenic type: An inherited disorder involving muscle wasting and weakness in the shoulder and lower leg. The legs are often affected first.
• Scapuloperoneal syndrome, neurogenic, Kaeser type: An inherited disorder involving muscle wasting and weakness in the shoulder and lower leg. The legs are often affected first.
• Schistosomiasis: Parasitic fluke infection in developing countries
• Schizencephaly: A very rare disorder where the brain fails to develop normally and slits or clefts form in the brain. They type and severity of symptoms is determined by the degree of abnormality.
• Sea snake poisoning: The Sea snake is a poisonous snake found in the warmer western parts of the Pacific and Indian Ocean. Sea snakes have scales but not gills or fins so they still need to go to the surface of the water to breathe. Sea snake venom is particularly poisonous but their bite fails to achieve any significant envenomation. The venom is toxic to the nervous system and muscles.
• Sea wasp poisoning: The sea wasp can deliver a serious sting and can be found in the waters of Northern Australia and the Philippines. Death can occur in as little as a few minutes if a person is severely stung.
• Sea wasp poisoning (Chiropsalmus quadrigatus): The Chiropsalmus quadrigatus jellyfish can deliver a serious sting and can be found in the waters of Northern Australia and the Philippines. Death can occur in as little as a few minutes if a person is severely stung.
• Sea wasp poisoning - Chironex fleckeri: The Chironex fleckeri jellyfish is one of the deadliest jellyfish in the world. It can deliver a serious sting and can be found mainly in the waters of Northern Australia and the Philippines. Death can occur in as little as a few minutes if a person is severely stung.
• Sensations: Changes to sensations or the senses
• Sheep laurel poisoning: Sheep laurel is a small shrub which bears clusters of small white or pink flowers and encapsulated fruit. The plant contains chemicals (andromedotoxin and arbutin) which can cause various symptoms if ingested. The plant is considered to be very toxic and death can result if sufficient quantities are eaten.
• Shingles: Infectious viral infection occuring years after chickenpox infection.
• Sick: Feeling ill or off color
• Simian B virus infection: A type of herpesvirus which occurs in monkeys but can be transmitted to humans through bites or through contact with infected monkey tissue as in a laboratory situation. The virus infects the brain (encephalitis) and the surrounding membrane (meningitis).
• Sjogren's Syndrome: Autoimmune disease damaging the eye tear ducts and other glands.
• Sleep paralysis: The occurrence of paralysis during ones sleep
• Slickhead poisoning (clupeotoxin): Some slickhead contain toxins (Clupeotoxin) which can be poisonous to humans if eaten. Heat does not destroy the toxin and there is still uncertainty as to the origin of the toxin. The toxin appears to be present in higher concentrations in summer and is believed to be possible linked to the consumption of toxic food in its food web. The size and age of the slickhead does not appear to be related to the toxicity. The slickhead are found in coastal waters off Africa and the Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Oceans.
• Spastic paralysis: a chronic pathological condition in which the muscles are affected by persistent spasms and exaggerated tendon reflexes because of damage to motor nerves of the central nervous system
• Spina bifida: A congenital condition which is characterized by the abnormal closure of the vertebral arch
• Spinal AVM: Spinal AVM's refers to a group of abnormal blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the spinal canal. The severity of symptoms depends on the size and growth of the blood vessel malformation. Severe complications such as paralysis can result if the malformed blood vessels rupture and bleed.
• Spinal Muscular Atrophy type I: Type of SMA, a genetic motor neuron disease affecting nerves and muscles.
• Spinal arthritis: Inflammation of the spine joints. The inflammation can be the result of such things as degenerative joint disease, gout, infection, trauma and autoimmune conditions.
• Spinal atrophy - ophthalmoplegia - pyramidal syndrome: A very rare syndrome characterized by weak eye muscles, progressive spinal cord deterioration resulting in muscle weakness and wasting
• Spinal cord injury: spinal cord injury causes myelopathy or damage to white matter or myelinated fiber tracts that carry sensation and motor signals to and from the brain
• Spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress 1: An inherited neuromuscular disease that causes progressive weakness in the arm and chest muscles leading to severe respiratory problems early in life. Sufferers are never able to sit independently and breathing problems progress rapidly with breathing assistance needed within the first five years.
• Spinal shock: A state of spinal shock accompanied by temporary paralysis of the lower extremities often associated with spinal injury.
• Spine symptoms: Symptoms affecting the spine
• Spinocerebellar ataxia, Machado-Joseph type III: A rare genetic disorder (chromosome 14q32.1defect) characterized by later onset of symptoms such as weak eye muscles and peripheral neuropathy. Gait ataxia and dysarthria (speech disorder) also occur and are symptoms common to all the spinocerebellar ataxia types.
• Spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia with joint laxity: A rare skeletal disorder where the spine and long bones grow and develop abnormally. Loose joints and severe curvature of the spine is also present. The condition is severe and death in the first couple of decades is common.
• Staggerbush poisoning: Staggerbush is a shrubby plant with small pink or white droopy flowers. The plant originated in the US. The leaves and flower nectar contain andromedotoxin which is very poisonous if eaten. Severe poisoning can result in death.
• Stroke: Brain-related symptoms of bleeding or blockage.
• Stroke symptoms: Brain-related symptoms of bleeding or blockage.
• Sturge-Weber Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder characterized by excessive blood vessel growth, calcium accumulation inside the brain and seizures.
• Subacute granulomatous thyroiditis: Subacute thyroiditis is a self-limited thyroid condition associated with a triphasic clinical course of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and return to normal thyroid function.
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage: subarachnoid hemorrhage is bleeding in the area between the brain and the thin tissues that cover the brain. This area is called the subarachnoid space
• Subdural hematoma: A condition which is characterized by a blood clot beneath the dura mater
• Sweetshrub poisoning: The sweetshrub is a large deciduous shrub which bears brownish-red flowers and seeds enclosed in a thick fiber casing. The plant may be found growing in the wild or in gardens as an ornamental plant. The crushed leaves have a strawberry odor. The seeds contain chemicals (calycanthin, alkaloids) which can cause symptoms if eaten in large quantities. The ingestion of large quantities by patients with underlying heart problems is more likely to cause symptoms.
• Syphilis: A sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacteria (Treponema pallidum). The condition is often asymptomatic in the early stages but one or more sores may be present in the early stages. Untreated syphilis usually results in remission of visible symptoms but further severe damage may occur to internal organs and other body tissues which can result in death.
• Syringobulbia: A neurological disorder that progresses slowly and is characterized by a fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord and brain stem.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus: chronic autoimmune disease that can be fatal, though with recent medical advances, fatalities are becoming increasingly rare.
• TIA: Transient ischemic accident
• Tacrine toxicity: The toxic reaction of the body to the substance, possibly via allergic reaction or overdose.
• Tarpon poisoning (clupeotoxin): Some tarpon contain toxins (Clupeotoxin) which can be poisonous to humans if eaten. Heat does not destroy the toxin and there is still uncertainty as to the origin of the toxin. The toxin appears to be present in higher concentrations in summer and is believed to be possible linked to the consumption of toxic food in its food web. The size and age of the tarpon does not appear to be related to the toxicity. The tarpon are found in coastal waters off Africa and the Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Oceans.
• Tay Sachs: Rare genetic disease leading to fatty deposits in the brain.
• Tay Sachs Disease: A condition which is causes GM2 gangliosidosis
• Tetanus: A disease caused by chemicals which are produced by a bacterium (clostridium tetani) and are toxic to the nerves. The infection usually occurs when the bacteria enter the body through a deep wound - these bacteria are anaerobic and hence don't need oxygen to survive.
• Thigh Paralysis: Loss of control of the thigh muscles
• Thiolase deficiency: A rare syndrome involving a deficiency of an enzyme called thiolase which results in mental retardation and muscle problems.
• Tick paralysis: Paralysis from Australian tick bites
• Tick-borne encephalitis: A viral infection (flavivirdae) of the central nervous system which is transmitted by ticks. Ticks usually feed on small rodents who are the main carriers of the virus. Transmission may also occur through the consumption of untreated milk. The incubation period is usually 1 to 2 weeks. The symptoms occur in two phases: the first involves symptoms of a general viral illness (fever, headache, nausea, aching muscles) followed by a period of remission and then central nervous system inflammation such as meningitis. However, many patients only suffer the first phase of the disease.
• Tingling: Tingling, prickling, or pins-and-needles sensations
• Todd paralysis: Paralysis of an arm or leg on one side of the body that occurs after an epileptic attack. The paralysis can last from minutes to days.
• Todd's Paralysis: Recurrent episodes of seizure and paralysis.
• Total paralysis: A condition which is characterized by a total inability to move the legs and arms
• Transient Ischemic Attack: temporary disturbance of blood supply to a restricted area of the brain, resulting in brief neurologic dysfunction that persists, by definition, for less than 24 hours.
• Transient ischemic attack: temporary disturbance of blood supply to a restricted area of the brain, resulting in brief neurologic dysfunction that persists, by definition, for less than 24 hours.
• Transverse myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord which results in various neurological and muscle symptoms. The inflammation can occur for no obvious reason or may result from a virus, bacterial infection, autoimmune disease or vaccination. The type and severity of symptoms is determined by the location and degree of inflammation.
• Tropical Reef Crab poisoning: The tropical reef crab is commonly found and eaten in the Indo-Pacific region. These crabs can contain toxic chemicals which can cause severe poisoning in humans if eaten. The best way to avoid poisoning is to not eat these crabs at all.
• Trumpet flower poisoning: The trumpet flower is a flowering vine-like plant that bears fairly large, colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers. It is often grown in gardens as an ornamental plant. The leaves and flowers of the plant contain chemicals (solanine, solanidine) which are highly toxic. Ingestion of sufficient flowers and leaves can result in death.
• Tucker syndrome: A rare syndrome characterized by vocal cord paralysis and droopy eyelids.
• Tumor: Abnormal tissue growth which may be malignant or benign.
• Vanishing white matter leukodystrophy: Degeneration of the brain white matter. The condition tends to progress relatively slowly but a sudden deterioration of symptoms can occur after a head trauma or an illness involving fever. Some degree of recovery can occur after the sudden deterioration but other cases can result in coma and death. Survival is possible into the third decade.
• Varicella virus antenatal infection: The infection of a mother with the varicella virus whilst she is pregnant
• Velopharyngeal incompetence: A condition which is characterised by the incompetence of the velopharyngeal to close due to any cause
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A deficiency of Vitamin B12 primarily causes anemias the body is unable to make sufficient quantities of normal red blood cells. Severe cases can lead to permanent nervous system problems. The vitamin B12 deficiency can result from absorption problems, insufficient dietary intake, certain medications (e.g. metformin), inherited conditions (e.g. transcobalamin deficiency) and certain chronic parasitic intestinal infestations.
• Vocal cord paralysis: Paralysis of the vocal cords leading to a change in voice or loss of ability to speak.
• Wallenberg's Syndrome: A rare neurological condition caused by a stroke (involving the cerebellar artery) and resulting in symptoms such as facial paralysis or weakness on one side of body.
• Weakness: Symptoms causing weakness of the body
• Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome: A rare degenerative brain disorder caused by thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency. Chronic alcoholics are prone to this condition.
• Wild cherry seed poisoning: Wild cherry seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin which breaks down into cyanide in the human body. The toxic chemicals are not released if the seed remains intact and therefore poisoning usually only occurs if the seeds are crushed and eaten. Accidental ingestion is very unusual.
• Wilson's disease: Wilson disease, or hepatolenticular degeneration, is a neurodegenerative disease of copper metabolism.
• Wrist paralysis: A loss of the motor and or sensory function of the wrist due to either a muscular or neural mechanism.
• X-linked mental retardation - hypotonia: A very rare inherited disorder characterized primarily by mental retardation. Initial symptoms of muscle weakness gives way to spasticity and contractures.

Rate This Website

What do you think about the features of this website? Take our user survey and have your say:

Website User Survey

Medical Tools & Articles:

Next articles:

• Surveys
• Join in at the forums

Tools & Services:

• Bookmark this page
• Surveys relating to Paralysis symptoms
• Symptom Search
• Symptom Checker
• Medical Dictionary
• Give your feedback

Medical Articles:

• Disease & Treatments Search
• Misdiagnosis Center
• Full list of interesting articles

Forums & Message Boards

• Ask or answer a question at the Boards:
• I cannot get a diagnosis. Please help.
• Tell us your medical story.
• Share your misdiagnosis story.
• What is the best treatment for my condition?
• See all the Boards.

Enter your search terms Submit search form
Search The Web Search wrongdiagnosis.com

Common Health Mistakes

Symptom
Checker

Search Specialists by State and City