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Germ Cell Tumors (GCTs) in Children What are germ cell tumors in children? A type of cell that forms as a fetus (also called an embryo) develops is called a germ cell. Germ cells are the cells that make the eggs (ova) in females and the sperm in males. Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are

Newborn Metabolic Screening Most babies look healthy and perfect when they are born—just ask their parents. But because some potential problems aren't readily seen, all newborns are tested for certain conditions, including metabolic disorders. A metabolic disorder is one that

Emphysema What is emphysema? Emphysema is a progressive chronic lung condition in which the tiny air sacs (alveoli) are damaged or destroyed. When this happens, it causes the tiny air sacs to rupture and create one big air pocket instead of many tiny ones. Air becomes trapped in

Endometriosis What is endometriosis? The tissue that lines the uterus is called the endometrium. Normally, if a woman doesn’t get pregnant, this tissue is shed each month during her period. In endometriosis, tissue that looks and acts like endometrial tissue implants outside the

Encopresis What is encopresis? Encopresis is when your child leaks stool into their underwear. It's also called stool soiling. It's most often because of long-term (chronic) constipation. Encopresis happens to children ages 4 and older who have already been toilet trained. In

Prematurity What is prematurity? A baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered premature or born too early. Other terms used for prematurity are preterm and the nicknames "preemie" or "premie." About 1 in every 10 infants are born prematurely. Twins and other multiples

Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) What is ataxia telangiectasia (A-T)? Ataxia telangiectasia is a rare childhood disease that affects the nervous system, immune system, and other body systems. It is an inherited disease. The symptoms of A-T often begin to show up by age 5. How to say

Vaginitis What is vaginitis? Vaginitis is any inflammation or infection of the vagina. It's common in women of all ages. About 1 in 3 women have vaginitis at some time in their lives. What causes vaginitis? Bacteria, yeast, viruses, parasites, and chemicals in creams or sprays

Appendicitis What is appendicitis? Appendicitis is a medical emergency. It happens when your appendix becomes sore, swollen, and diseased. The appendix is a thin tube that is joined to the large intestine. It sits in the lower right part of your belly (abdomen). The appendix is a

Chronic Bronchitis What is chronic bronchitis? Bronchitis is inflammation of the breathing tubes. These are the airways called bronchi. This inflammation causes too much mucus to be made and other changes. Bronchitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Chronic