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A rare neurological disorder with frequent temporary episodes of paralysis of one side of the body (hemiplegia) usually beginning before the age of 18 months. The eye movements, face, or limbs can be paralysed on either side of the body, but on only one side at a time. The cause is unknown. Abbreviated AHC. Also known as…

An enzyme normally present in liver and heart cells that is released into the bloodstream when the liver or heart is damaged. The blood ALT levels are elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise ALT levels. ALT is also called serum…

A progressive genetic disorder characterized by obesity, deafness, and visual problems in childhood and diabetes with insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes) and kidney failure in adulthood. Individuals with Alstrom syndrome have been identified in over 20 countries. Although the syndrome is generally rare, it is unusually frequent among Acadians, both those living in Nova Scotia and those in Louisiana. The syndrome first described by…

A progressive genetic disorder characterized by obesity, deafness, and visual problems in childhood and diabetes with insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes) and kidney failure in adulthood. Individuals with Alstrom syndrome have been identified in over 20 countries. Although the syndrome is generally rare, it is unusually frequent among Acadians, both those living in Nova Scotia and those in Louisiana. The syndrome first described by…

ALS8. A form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) inherited in an autosomal dominant manner due to mutation in a gene on chromosome 20ptel.

ALS7. A form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) inherited in an autosomal dominant manner due to mutation in a gene on chromosome 20ptel.

ALS6. A form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) inherited in an autosomal dominant manner due to mutation in a gene on chromosome 16q12.

ALS5. A form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) inherited in an autosomal recessive manner due to mutation in a gene on chromosome 15q15.1-q21.1.

ALS4. A juvenile-onset form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with no bulbar involvement, inherited in an autosomal dominant manner and caused by mutation in a gene on chromosome 9q34.

ALS3. An adult-onset form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) inherited in an autosomal dominant manner and caused by mutation in a gene on chromosome 18q21.