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Medical Genetics: Types of Genetic Changes The human body has about 20,000 different genes in each cell. Genes are located on chromosomes, which are stick-shaped structures in the middle of the cell (nucleus). Each cell usually has 46 chromosomes grouped in 23 pairs. Each gene

Herpes Simplex Virus (Cold Sores) in Children What are cold sores in children? Cold sores are small blisters around the mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus. They are sometimes called fever blisters. What causes cold sores in a child? The most common cause of cold sores is

HIV Home Care for a Child What is HIV? HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that causes AIDS, which is advanced HIV disease. HIV infection may lead to the body's immune system not fighting off infections as well as it should. A child with HIV needs more care to remain

Meningitis in Children What is meningitis in children? Meningitis is a swelling (inflammation) of the thin membranes that cover the brain and the spinal cord. These membranes are called the meninges. What causes meningitis in a child? Meningitis is most often caused by a

High Blood Pressure in Children and Teens What is high blood pressure in children? Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls. Two numbers are recorded when measuring blood pressure: Systolic pressure. This is the higher number. It refers to the

Menstrual Disorders Many menstrual conditions affect adolescent females and require the clinical care of a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Amenorrhea Dysmenorrhea Premenstrual

Immune Deficiencies Many different immune system deficiencies require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) Common Variable

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) in Children What is SCID in children? SCID is a very rare disease. It causes a child to have a very weak immune system (immunodeficiency). As a result, the child is unable to fight off even mild infections. The disease is also known as the

Juvenile Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases What are juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases in children? Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that causes pain and swelling. Juvenile arthritis is the term used for arthritis in children. The most common form of

Juvenile Dermatomyositis What is juvenile dermatomyositis? Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the blood vessels, muscles, and skin. It's different from other muscle diseases because it also causes skin problems. Symptoms often