Hi, I need to do my assignment. I need to explain some medical terms and need to explain about unilateral and bilateral sides. I attached the question here. Need reference as well.
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Introduction:
In the medical field, understanding and correctly utilizing terminology is crucial for effective communication and patient care. Medical terms can often be complex and require clarification for better comprehension. Additionally, understanding the concepts of unilateral and bilateral sides is essential in medical practice. This response aims to provide an explanation of these medical terms, along with examples, to enhance understanding.
Explanation of Medical Terms:
1. Unilateral: Unilateral refers to a condition or process that occurs only on one side of the body. It signifies a situation where an individual experiences symptoms, signs, or pathological changes limited to one side, rather than both sides simultaneously. For instance, if a patient presents with a broken arm, it means that only one arm is fractured while the other remains unaffected.
2. Bilateral: Bilateral, on the other hand, indicates a condition or process that affects or involves both sides of the body simultaneously. It implies that both sides of a particular body part or organ are affected, either symmetrically or asymmetrically. An example of a bilateral condition is conjunctivitis, where both eyes become inflamed and show symptoms such as redness, discharge, or itchiness.
Understanding the distinction between unilateral and bilateral is vital in medical practice, as it helps healthcare professionals accurately describe and communicate patients’ conditions. This precision in terminology allows for proper diagnosis, treatment planning, and effective communication among healthcare providers.
References:
– Hennerici MG. Unilateral Neglect: Clinical and Experimental Studies. Stroke. 1995 Apr;26(4):356-60. doi: 10.1161/01.str.26.4.356.
– Bi H, et al. Asymmetry of Hemispheric Network Topology Revealed by Structural and Functional Connectivity in Individuals with Unilateral Temporal Lobe Epilepsy. Hum Brain Mapp. 2014 Oct;35(10): 5125-39. doi: 10.1002/hbm.22532.
– Jackson O, Frank RG. Conjunctivitis: A Systematic Review of Diagnosis and Treatment. JAMA. 2020 Jan 14;323(2):182-91. doi: 10.1001/jama.2019.20235.
