Pathological Anatomy

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal opening in the interatrial septum, often due to the failure of the foramen ovale to close after birth. This diagram provides a clear visual representation of the heart's anatomy, highlighting the location and impact of this defect on blood flow between the atria. Exploring this image offers valuable insights into the condition's implications and its relevance to cardiovascular health.

Congenital heart defects are structural abnormalities present at birth that affect the heart's functionality, often impacting blood flow and oxygenation. This diagram illustrates four common types—patent foramen ovale, coarctation of the aorta, patent ductus arteriosus, and tetralogy of Fallot—providing a visual guide to their anatomical differences. Understanding these defects through this image offers valuable insights into their diagnosis and management.

The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," is a small but vital structure located in the sella turcica of the sphenoid bone, just below the brain. This diagram illustrates the normal anatomy of the pituitary gland and the changes caused by a pituitary tumor, highlighting its potential to affect vision due to its proximity to the optic chiasm. Understanding these illustrations provides key insights into the gland's function and the clinical implications of tumor growth.

Spina bifida is a congenital condition affecting the spinal cord, resulting from the incomplete closure of the neural tube during early development. This diagram illustrates the four main types of spina bifida, providing a visual comparison of normal spinal structure and the varying degrees of malformation. Exploring these illustrations helps in recognizing the anatomical changes and their implications for those affected by this condition.

The human eye offers a fascinating window into the autonomic nervous system's influence, with pupil dilation, or mydriasis, serving as a key indicator of physiological responses. This image captures a striking example of mydriasis, where the pupil appears significantly enlarged due to the activation of sympathetic pathways or the application of specific medications like phenylephrine. Delving into this visual provides valuable insights into the eye's anatomy and the mechanisms behind its involuntary adjustments, making it an essential topic for anyone interested in ocular health.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition affecting synovial joints, often resulting from aging or prolonged wear and tear, leading to the erosion of articular cartilage, inflammation, joint stiffness, and pain. This condition disrupts the joint’s ability to move smoothly, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. This article examines the pathological changes in a synovial joint affected by osteoarthritis, its anatomical alterations, physical effects, and clinical implications for effective management.

A knee injury from a strong lateral blow to an extended knee can lead to the "unhappy triad," involving the tibial collateral ligament, medial meniscus, and anterior cruciate ligament, as depicted in this medical diagram. This article explores the anatomical impact of this injury, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, providing a comprehensive guide for managing this complex knee trauma effectively.

Fractures of the humerus and radius are common injuries caused by falls or direct blows, affecting the upper arm and forearm, as illustrated in this detailed medical diagram. This article explores the types of fractures in these bones, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, providing a comprehensive guide for understanding and managing these injuries effectively.

A herniated intervertebral disc occurs when the nucleus pulposus protrudes through a weakened anulus fibrosus, compressing spinal nerves and causing pain or muscle weakness, as depicted in this anatomical diagram. This article explores the structure of the intervertebral disc, the mechanisms of herniation, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing this common spinal condition.

Osteoporosis is an age-related disorder that weakens bones, leading to a gradual collapse of the thoracic vertebrae and resulting in kyphosis, as shown in this medical image. This article explores the impact of osteoporosis on the spine, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, providing a comprehensive guide for managing this condition and maintaining spinal health.