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Medical Dictionary:
Diseases and Conditions
Diseases and medical conditions can be very confusing, particularly those with long, hard-to-pronounce names. HowStuffWorks' Diseases and Conditions Dictionary provides down-to-earth, comprehensive definitions of thousands of ailments and illnesses. Each listing identifies causes, incidence and risk factors, notes symptoms, outlines tests and discusses treatments and support groups where applicable. Diseases and conditions are listed alphabetically below. Click on a name to see a definition and related information.
Featured Diseases and Conditions:

Tooth decay is one of the most common of all disorders, second only to the common cold. It usually occurs in children and young adults but can affect any person. It is the most important cause of tooth loss in younger people.

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, a member of the herpesvirus family. The same virus also causes herpes zoster, shingles, in adults.

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The bacterium may enter the body through wounds, or they may live in improperly canned or preserved food.

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, which results in pain, swelling, and limited movement. Arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage normally protects the joint, allowing for smooth movement.

 
The Diseases and Conditions Dictionary Library: