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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - acroparaesthesia Acroparaesthesia refers to an abnormal tingling or “pins and needles” sensation affecting the extremities, particularly the hands and feet. This sensation may occur intermittently or persist for longer periods and is often associated with disturbances in nerve function or circulation. It belongs to a broader group of sensory disturbances known as paraesthesia, which involve unusual sensations without an obvious external stimulus.


The condition can arise from several causes, including nerve compression, circulatory disorders, metabolic conditions, or exposure to cold temperatures. In some individuals, acroparaesthesia may be a temporary symptom, while in others it may indicate an underlying neurological or vascular disorder. Medical evaluation may therefore be necessary if the symptoms are persistent or accompanied by other neurological signs.

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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - acromion
​The acromion is a bony projection located at the top of the spine of the scapula, or shoulder blade. It forms the highest point of the shoulder and serves as an important attachment site for muscles and ligaments that stabilize the shoulder joint.



Part of the acromion connects with the clavicle, or collarbone, forming the acromioclavicular joint. This joint plays a significant role in allowing a wide range of shoulder movements. Injuries or degenerative changes affecting this region can lead to shoulder pain or restricted movement, particularly in conditions such as shoulder impingement syndrome.

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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - Actinobacillus
​Actinobacillus is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria that are typically nonmotile and aerobic. These bacteria usually appear spherical or rod-shaped under the microscope, although in some cases they may form branching filaments.



Actinobacillus species are primarily associated with diseases in animals. However, certain infections can be transmitted from animals to humans, making them relevant in veterinary and human medicine. Because of this zoonotic potential, understanding the characteristics of these bacteria is important in the prevention and management of animal-to-human infections.

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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - actin
​ Actin is a protein found in muscle cells that plays a key role in the process of muscle contraction. It forms thin filaments that interact with another protein called myosin to produce movement within muscle fibres.



During muscle contraction, actin filaments slide past myosin filaments in a coordinated process that shortens the muscle fibre and generates force. This mechanism is fundamental to many bodily movements, including voluntary movements controlled by skeletal muscles as well as contractions in certain other muscle types. Actin is therefore an essential component of the structure and function of striated muscle.

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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone) ACTH, or adrenocorticotrophic hormone, is a hormone produced and stored in the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in the body’s response to stress by stimulating the adrenal glands to release corticosteroid hormones. The secretion of ACTH is regulated by corticotrophin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus.


When the body experiences stress, ACTH levels increase, leading to higher production of adrenal hormones such as cortisol. These hormones help regulate metabolism, immune responses, and the body’s adaptation to stress. In clinical medicine, a synthetic analogue of ACTH called tetracosactide may be administered by injection to evaluate adrenal gland function in diagnostic procedures known as Synacthen tests.

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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - acrosclerosis
Acrosclerosis is a skin disorder considered a variant of generalized scleroderma, a condition characterized by thickening and hardening of the skin due to abnormal connective tissue changes. In acrosclerosis, these changes mainly affect the extremities and certain facial areas, leading to tight, stiff skin.


The disorder often also shows features similar to Raynaud’s disease, in which small blood vessels in the extremities temporarily constrict. As a result, the hands, feet, and sometimes the face may experience changes in colour, temperature, and sensation when exposed to cold or emotional stress. The combination of skin thickening and vascular symptoms can significantly affect the function and comfort of the affected areas.
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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - acrylic resin
Acrylic resin refers to a group of synthetic polymeric materials widely used in dentistry. These materials are valued for their durability, ease of shaping, and compatibility with oral tissues. Acrylic resins are commonly used to produce denture teeth, denture bases, and orthodontic appliances.


In the past, acrylic resin was also used as a dental filling material. Although newer materials have largely replaced it for fillings, acrylic resins remain important in prosthetic dentistry due to their aesthetic appearance and ability to mimic the natural colour of teeth and gums. Their versatility makes them a fundamental component of modern dental restorative and prosthetic techniques.
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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - acrosome
​ The acrosome is a cap-like structure located at the front end of a sperm cell, known as a spermatozoon. This structure contains enzymes that are essential for fertilization. The acrosome forms during sperm development and covers the anterior portion of the sperm head.



Just before fertilization occurs, the acrosome undergoes a process known as the acrosome reaction. During this reaction, the acrosomal membrane breaks down and releases enzymes that help the sperm penetrate the protective layers surrounding the ovum, including the follicle cells and the zona pellucida. If the acrosome reaction fails to occur properly, fertilization cannot take place, and this malfunction may contribute to male infertility.

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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - actinomycin D
​Actinomycin D is another name for the chemotherapy drug dactinomycin. It is an antibiotic substance that interferes with DNA-dependent RNA synthesis, thereby inhibiting cell growth and replication.



Because of this ability to block genetic activity within cells, actinomycin D is used in cancer treatment to slow or stop the growth of rapidly dividing tumour cells. It is used particularly in certain childhood cancers and other specific malignancies. The drug must be administered carefully due to its potent biological effects and potential side effects.

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KembaraXtra - Medical Terms - actinomycosis Actinomycosis is a chronic, noncontagious infection caused by the bacterium Actinomyces israelii. The disease most commonly affects the jaw region but may also involve the lungs, brain, or digestive organs. The bacteria normally live harmlessly in the mouth but can become pathogenic if they enter deeper tissues.


This often occurs following dental infections, such as an apical abscess, or after tooth extraction. The infection is characterized by the formation of abscesses and multiple sinus tracts that may open onto the skin. Treatment generally involves surgical drainage of infected areas combined with a prolonged course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria.
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