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Polydactyly: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

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Polydactyly

Left hand of African woman with postaxial polydactyly.
Left hand of African woman with postaxial polydactyly (Wikimedia Commons Image)

Polydactyly is a congenital physical aberration in which a person has more than five fingers on his/her hand or if his/her foot has more that five toes each. The term is derived from the Greek words ‘polus’ which means ‘many’ and ‘daktulos’ which means ‘fingers’. The extra digit on either hand or toe may be rudimentary or fully formed with or without bones at all. For rudimentary polydactyly, the extra finger or toe is usually a piece of soft tissue. In rare cases, the extra digit may develop fully and become a functional finger or toe.

Polydactyly is one of the most prevalent inborn hand abnormalities which manifests in 1 out of 500 live births. Experts formed a classification for this congenital condition based on its extent and location. Fully formed digits having a complete number of bones and joints are classified as Type A polydactyly while rudimentary fingers or toes are classified as Type B polydactyly. Based on location, polydactyly can be preaxial, central or postaxial. Preaxial when the extra digit occurs near the thumb or big toe; postaxial when it is located near the pinky or near the smallest digit of the foot; and central when the extra digit arises between the  biggest and smallest digits of the limbs. Among Asians, an extra thumb is most likely to arise (preaxial polydactyly) while an extra finger on the small digit side is most common among African-Americans (postaxial polydactyly). Polydactyly may occur as an isolated condition or it may be expressed as a result of an underlying health condition such as Meckel syndrome, trisomy 13  and Grebe type Chondrodysplasia. In most cases however, polydactyly is caused by genetic factors.

Genetic Causes of Polydactyly

The gene that codes for polydactyly is found on one of the short legs of chromosome seven and has an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. Since it is autosomal, its occurrence among males and females is equal. And because it follows a dominant pattern of inheritance, a child with a polydactyl parent has at least 50% possibility to inherit and show the trait.

One of the genes behind polydactyly is GLI3. It serves its function by providing instructions for making a protein (GLI3 protein) that has the capacity to turn on or to turn off gene expression. During embryonic development, GLI3 protein plays a key role in shaping tissues and organs by interacting with other genes. When a mutation or a change related to the GLI3 gene in chromosome seven occurs, deletion or rearrangement of genetic materials for example, limb development becomes severely affected which can lead to polydactyly at birth.

Another gene that can cause polydactyly is the LMBR1 gene which is also located in chromosome seven. Similar to the case of GLI3 gene, a disruption in the LMBR1 region can alter the expression of a protein called Sonic hedgehog homolog (SHH) which regulates vertebrate organogenesis and growth of digits. Defects in this gene are associated with preaxial polydactyly while abnormalities in GLI3 gene are associated with both preaxial and postaxial polydactyly.[ad#co-1]

Diagnosis

Physical examination after birth is the easiest way to diagnose polydactyly. Diagnosis can also be done before childbirth by looking at family histories and by performing several prenatal tests. One of the most commonly used method during pregnancy is a prenatal ultrasound called a sonogram. If polydactyly is seen in the ultrasound, other medical tests may be conducted to determine if the condition is associated with other genetic disorders. In cases where the result of a sonogram becomes unyielding, a method called embryoscopy is also employed. This test involves the the direct visualization of the embryo by inserting a fiber optic scope through the mother’s abdominal wall and uterus. For a more genetic approach and reliable result, amniocentesis is performed. This requires the analysis of amniotic fluid sampled from the mother’s womb primarily to detect chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.

Treatment

Treatment for polydactyly depends on the severity of the disorder. X-ray is usually done to determine the extent of polydactyly so as to apply the corresponding treatment for such condition. For isolated cases where no major health consequences are likely to arise, surgery is used to remove the extra digit. For Type B polydactyly, the extra finger or toe can be surgically removed before the newborn is discharged from the hospital. Type A polydactyly on the other hand is more complicated and requires more surgeries compared to the other type and is usually corrected when the child is above one year of age.[ad#afterpost]

References

  • http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003176.htm
  • http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/003176.htm
  • http://www.healthline.com/galecontent/polydactyly
  • http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site1073/mainpageS1073P1.html
  • http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/greig-cephalopolysyndactyly-syndrome
  • http://www.brighthub.com/science/genetics/articles/47390.aspx
  • http://answers.yourdictionary.com/medical/what-causes-polydactyly.html
  • http://www.springerlink.com/content/d2t10p466rm502kt/

 

Is Body Building Safe for Seniors?

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Body building is an intensive activity that many perceive to be only performed by the young and fit. This is not always the case as there is a small growing number of seniors engaging in this impressive activity. Although the lifting of weight can be deemed hazardous, with the proper guidance and care, these risks can be reduced.

Senior citizens face many risks due to their failing health, and to some, letting a senior citizen enter a body building gym is tantamount to manslaughter. However, with the proper care, these risks can be mitigated and body building made safe for senior citizens.

As a person ages, the ability of the heart to supply blood to the body gradually weakens. Cardiovascular endurance is a necessary trait to have when body building and at first glance, it may seem that senior citizens are incapable of exerting the suffice energy required to fully build their body. There are, however, ways to allow them to maximize, and gradually increase their cardiovascular potential. Senior citizens starting out in body building would do well to augment it with another set of exercise. They could do body building and other exercises on alternate days, or could perform them on different parts of the day. Walking, swimming and tai chi are good exercises to alternate with body building since they are low impact exercises that promote relaxation and relief for the body. It can also allow muscles strained from bodybuilding to remain used, but not overly so, enhancing the building effects while minimizing the stress.

The weight room is a veritable garden of danger. Weights may fall on limbs and feet, cables may snap, these and other hazards make the entrance of an elderly person such a risk. However, constant vigilance and proper supervision can minimize these risks. A senior citizen should never engage in a bodybuilding workout without the express, given, written approval of their doctor. They should never engage in any activity inside the weight room without supervision of a trained physical fitness expert and without a skilled medical person nearby.[ad#co-1]

Aging brings loss of coordination, slowing of reflexes, and loss of muscle strength. It is for these reasons that a competent spotter, someone fully capable of easily lifting whatever weights a senior citizen is lifting, is vital. Sudden muscle jerks,  a mistimed pull or a slipped grip can all lead to grave physical injury and may result in death. Having someone on hand in case of these emergencies capable of preventing weights from crushing the life out of a senior citizen can make body building for seniors exponentially safer. Weightlifting should be always taken slow when dealing with seniors.

A proper weight plan should also be implemented. This should consider the senior person’s physical condition and limitations in order to improve their capability to mold their body the way they see fit. A complete physical and a complete examination of the senior’s medical history is thus a necessity.

The weight room is a hazardous place for the careless. Young or old, if you take bodybuilding lightly, It is more likely that you will suffer bodily harm. Bodybuilding can be made safe by taking the proper precautions. Although at first glance it may seem dangerous, with constant vigilance, proper care and a suited fitness plan, body building can be made safe for senior citizens.[ad#afterpost]

References

  • Senior Bodybuilding: Keep It Light And Stay Safe.  Retrieved June 13,14 2011 from http://www.fitness-equipment-health.com/senior_bodybuilding.html
  • Sutton, Lisa.  Senior Fitness retrieved June 14, 2011 from http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/training_for_seniors.htm
  • Caramel,  (2010) Is Body Building Safe for Seniors? Retrieved June 16 2011 at http://www.brighthub.com/health/fitness/articles/78796.aspx

Benefits of Exercise for the 60-Plus Men

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Tai chi
Outdoor tai chi practice in Beijing's Temple of Heaven

Exercise has long been touted for its numerous health benefits. Exercise can help one enjoy a strong immune system, large reserves of energy, and the advantage of feeling and looking good. Exercise has been said to prevent aging and delay the damage it does to our body. But would exercise still have the same beneficial effects for those who are already aged? What could be the benefits of exercise for the 60-plus man?

There are many misconceptions that prevent the elderly from enjoying the benefits of exercise in their twilight years. They may avoid exercise because they perceive that it is futile, that exercise would be meaningless for them who are already old. They may perceive that engaging in exercise activities would only put them into greater risk of injury. That they are too old and tired to try exercising, and that they would just get worn down more and accelerate their demise. They may have physical disabilities that prevent them from experiencing a wide range of motion, thus they see no benefit in even attempting to exercise.

Those who believe these misconceptions should see the truth; that exercise at whatever age can accrue numerous health benefits. Exercise, whether for the young, the middle aged or the elderly is sure to improve one’s life. Let us take a look at some of the many health benefits of exercise for the 60-plus man.

As a person ages, his metabolism gradually slows down. This leads to accumulation of fat, leading to obesity and other health disorders. A feeling of bloating, constant fatigue and lack of vigor characterize obese elderly men. Exercise helps burn those excess calories off that would eventually lead to weight loss which can help prevent the occurrence of many health concerns.

Aside from burning fat, exercise can also fine-tune the machinery of the body, making it more capable of performing daily tasks.  Exercise in 60-plus men can lower incidences of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure and reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Exercise can help strengthen their muscles and bones, preventing osteoporosis and muscle atrophy. Muscle and bone strength will also be beneficial in improving their mobility, flexibility and coordination to reduce their risk of incurring grave injury.

Aside from these great physical benefits, exercising can benefit the mental welfare of seniors. Exercise helps in prolonging their sleep as well as improving sleep quality. Engaging in exercise can also improve an elderly person’s mental well-being. It promotes a positive outlook in life, enhancing one’s self confidence, self-esteem and thinking. It also makes the brain active, increasing oxygen blood flow and enabling the elderly to avoid debilitating mental disorders.

Cardio exercises for seniors are sure to improve daily energy; rejuvenating them and making them feel young again. Strength training would enhance their ability to withstand and prevent injuries, making them more nimble, less clumsy, and more balanced and coordinated.

Exercises need not be tiring activities for seniors. Daily activities like walking, gardening and doing chores are already forms of exercise. Swimming, dancing and yoga are just some of the more low impact exercises the elderly may want to try to improve their health.

Exercise for the elderly induces many benefits. All that is needed is the willpower to start and try exercises that allow them to gradually improve their health. Growing old need not be and unhealthy prospect, and with the many benefits of exercise for the 60-plus man, it may lead not to a feeling of life slipping away, but of new life starting.

Reference

  • Sarah Kovatch, M.F.A, Melinda Smith, M.A., and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., (2010) Senior Exercise and Fitness Tips How to gain energy and feel stronger retrieved from http://www.helpguide.org/life/senior_fitness_sports.htm

How To Get Rid Of Lower Back Fat

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There is something in our bodies that makes us store fat against our will. Scientists feel it’s because of the ‘thrifty gene’ theory according to which, early man used to face long periods of starvation before he could lay hands on a prey. The body adapted to such scarcity by saving energy as fat which could be used slowly over a long period. Though times have changed and now we have more than enough to gorge on, the human body is still in the mode of hoarding fat.

From double chin, potbelly to bulky thighs and saggy chest, there are several places where fat accumulation is absolute. Another place where fat can prove to be very stubborn is lower back also called “love handles”. Here we tell you how to get rid of lower back fat and acquire that perfect ’V’ shape that most male models are popular for.

Replace it with muscle

As you know whenever you do any exercise, it will reduce fat and replace it with muscles. Since the love handles are near your stomach and back, you have to build core muscles. This will not only give you a toned tummy, a stronger back but also lends a trimmed waist. Sit ups, using weights, front squats, and deadlifts are some of the exercises you can use. Exerting your core means more energy is required which will come from the fat which slowly and steadily gets replaced by muscles.

Lie down on your stomach and extend your arms above your head while keep your legs straight. Lift your right arm and left leg as high as you can. The position depicts a flying superman. Hold it as long as you can and repeat it with another side. Start with 10 reps and keep increasing as you go along.

Stability ball exercises can be another good option. Place your hips on the ball just under the highest point and stick your feet against a wall. Place your hands on the sides of your head and bend forward over the ball just like while doing stomach crunches. Lift yourself up by contracting your lower back muscles. Hold as long as you can and repeat.

Also, you have to concentrate on losing fat from all over, not just from lower back to achieve greater success because our bodies are not accustomed to shedding fat from just one particular area. A cardiovascular workout like jogging, cycling and even brisk walking can do wonders.

Anybody who has been to a gym knows that you also need to give equal thought to rest to let the muscles build up. Have eight hours of sleep so that your body recuperates from the workout and builds muscles more easily.

Follow a healthy diet

No amount of fat loss is possible by relying only on exercise. You have to keep a check on what you eat because if you continue to gorge on unhealthy food, the new fat will start replacing the one you burn in the gym and you are back to square one. Increase the amount of protein, minerals and vitamins in your diet by including egg whites, fruits and vegetables. Another good way to lose weight is portion control. Divide your three big meals in six smaller meals because this will help your body break up the food easily and hence the speed of metabolism increases which is what you should be aiming for if you want to lose weight.

Drink lots of water because it aids in fast disposal of stored fat. Prefer lean meats, fish and whole grains and cut back on salt, sugar, cheese and butter.

So grab those barbells or get a gym membership card now and start working out to get rid of that ugly lower back fat.

Understanding the Serum Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test

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Space-filling models of angiotensin I (left) and II (right).
Space-filling models of angiotensin I (left) and II (right). (Wikimedia Image)

Serum angiotensin converting enzyme test is a test that measures the amount of angiotensin converting enzyme in blood levels. Angiotensin converting enzyme is an enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. These two proteins play a vital role in regulating blood pressure. Angiotensin I is usually inactive, but when acted upon by angiotensin converting enzyme, it becomes angiotensin II.

Angiotensin II is the active form of angiotensin I. Angiotensin II causes the blood vessels to narrow. When there is a decrease in area, fluids (in this case, blood), flows faster, causing a resultant increase in blood pressure. Serum angiotensin converting enzyme test is primarily carried out to test for suspected cases of sarcoidosis, a disease that results in the formation of structures called granulomas in various organs. Granulomas are abnormal aggregations of inflammatory cells that, in some organs, form nodules.

Sarcoidosis may occur in an individual for years without any symptoms. When an organ is affected by sarcoidoisis, several symptoms may appear. These include weight loss, fatigue, arthritis and dry eyes. Skin symptoms may include rashes and lesions particularly on the face, neck and ears. The lymph nodes near the affected area may exhibit swelling (lymphadenophaty).

Sarcoidosis may also cause other symptoms depending on the area where it is located. When sarcoidosis affects the lungs, there would be lessening of the lungs air intake as well as blockages when severity increases. Sarcoidosis is usually asymptomatic, thus it is usually accidentally detected when undertaking mundane tests like x-rays, blood tests, CT scans of the chest area and lung biopsy.

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High angiotensin converting enzyme levels are a sign of sarcoidosis. An individual afflicted with sarcoidosis would have elevated levels of angiotensin converting enzyme. This could be 50% to 80% more than normal. Serum angiotensin levels are also related to the severity of sarcoidosis; rise and fall of the levels signify intensity or improvement of the condition.

Testing for serum angiotensin converting levels requires obtaining blood from the patient. Normal test results would be from 8 to 27 U/ml (units per milliliter). Individuals below the age of twenty have naturally high serum angiotensin converting enzyme levels, which may mask the presence of sarcoidosis.

There are several causes if a serum angiotenesin converting enzyme test results show low level of the enzyme. Low levels of angiotensin converting enzyme may be caused by hypothyroidism, a disorder that signifies a decrease in thyroid production. This disorder is primarily caused by iodine deficiency though other factors like radioactivity, genetics and environment may contribute to the development of the disorder.

Low levels of serum angiotensin converting enzyme may also be caused by the eating disorder anorexia nervosa. Anorexia nervosa is a disorder that generally manifests as a loss of any desire to consume food.

The disorders mentioned above can be very serious. They may escape the notice of several other tests. Undergoing a serum angiotensin converting enzyme test lets one know the possible occurrence of these disorders. This would better help him to take the appropriate steps to facilitate treatment and return to a healthy life.[ad#afterpost]

References

  • James, William D.; Berger, Timothy G.; et al. (2006). Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin: clinical Dermatology. Saunders Elsevier.
  • McGonagle D, McDermott MF (2006) A proposed classification of the immunological diseases. PLoS Med
  • White, E.S.; Lynch Jp, 3rd (2007). Current and emerging strategies for the management of sarcoidosis. Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
  • Kumar MS, Safa AM, Deodhar SD, Schumacher OP (1977). The relationship of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) in primary thyroid failure.  American Journal of Clinical Pathology

Benefits and Side Effects of Castor Seed Oil

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Castor beans
Castor beans

Castor seed oil is derived from the seed of castor oil plant (Ricinus communis). Many people all over the world use castor oil for its many health benefits. Castor oil however, also has several side effects that many users should be aware of.

Ricinus communis can naturally be found all over the tropics, but it originated from India, Eastern Africa and the South Eastern Mediterranean. It is easily cultivated and can grow to tree-like size. The seed contains a large percentage of oil (40-60%) that contains numerous triglycerides, particularly the compound ricinolein. It is this compound that is responsible for castor oil’s potency as a laxative.

Health Benefits

Castor oil has many health benefits. Cold pressed castor oil has traditionally been used as a skin application to treat rashes, eczema, wounds, and burns. When used on the skin, it can also improve texture and conditioning. It can also reduce outbreaks of acne and pimples. To apply for this use, simply dab a piece of cotton or cloth containing a few drops of castor oil into the area to be treated.

Castor seed oils can also be used to massage swollen joints and tendons, reducing swelling and easing pain. A castor oil wrap can be made by treating a piece of cloth with castor oil, and placing a plastic wrap over it. It can be placed over a tender region, especially sore muscles and arthritic joints. A heat source (warm bottle of water or a heating pad is then placed over the wrap to maximize the effect.

Castor oil has been used in Italy during Mussolini’s fascist regime to induce diarrhea as a form of torture. It can, in moderate amounts, be a very effective laxative. A teaspoon of castor oil taken with lukewarm milk, ginger juice or orange juice can purge the body of toxins and intestinal parasites.  The effect starts an hour after taking the concoction. The effect may be unpredictable and can sometimes cause abdominal pain.

Abdominal cramps and headaches can be alleviated by rubbing the oil on the affected area.

Castor oil can be rubbed on the sides of the nose, under the eyes and behind the ears to relieve sinusitis.

A small portion rubbed into the breasts of a lactating woman is traditionally believed to improve the quantity of milk produced.

Applied to hair and scalp, castor oil effectively reduces dandruff and improves hair growth and luster. It can also reduce hair loss.

Applied to fungal infections like athlete’s foot, castor oil is an effective remedy.

Side Effects

The health benefits of castor oil are numerous; however, ingesting castor oil can also lead to several side effects. Castor oil contains the toxic compound ricin which can cause death when ingested in high amounts. Moderately high doses of ingested castor oil exaggerate its laxative effects, causing extreme diarrhea and vomiting. Use of castor oil in persons with intestinal infections or inflammations would further complicate the illness. Pregnant women should take very special care when using castor oil, since it can lead to abortions or premature births. Children should also never take castor oil since it is easy for them to overdose, leading to death. People with kidney disorders should also avoid using castor oil.

Castor oil is highly effective for a number of illnesses. The myriad uses of castor oil makes having a bottle handy in every household a good idea. However, bottles of castor oil should always be kept out of reach of children. Correct castor oil dosage should be followed since it also contains a very potent toxic substance. Proper care should always be used when ingesting castor oil, preferably under a physician’s or herbalist’s guidance.

References

  • Wedin, G.P., Neal, J.S., Everson, G.W., and Krenzelok, E.P. (1986). Castor bean poisoning. Am J Emerg Med.
  • Fae, Rita (2007) The benefits of Castor Oil retrieved from http://www.lifescript.com/Health/Alternative-Therapies/Supplements/The_Benefits_Of_Castor_Oil.aspx