Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

Alpha-linolenic acid. Aminolevulinic acid, a naturally occurring chemical in the body that is converted to protoporphyrin IX, a light-sensitive compound. Aminolevulinic acid has been used in the photodynamic therapy of skin precancer and cancer. In this therapy topical treatment with forms of ALA sensitizes the tissues to light. Then a special blue or red light depending upon the…

A genetic metabolic disorder due to deficiency of the enzyme homogentisic acid (HGA) dioxygenase. Deficiency of this enzyme leads to the three cardinal features of alkaptonuria (the presence of homogentisic acid in the urine), ochronosis (bluish-black pigmentation in connective tissue), and arthritis. Urine that turns dark is a characteristic feature.

A state in which a person is unable to speak (mute) or move (akinetic). Akinetic mutism is often due to damage to the frontal lobes of the brain.

Related to the loss of the normal ability to move the muscles.

The state of being without movement.

A movement disorder characterized by a feeling of inner restlessness and a compelling need to be in constant motion, as well as by actions such as rocking while standing or sitting, lifting the feet as if marching on the spot, and crossing and uncrossing the legs while sitting. People with akathisia are unable to sit or keep…

In general usage, this would be read to mean “also known as.” However, in medical parlance, AKA means “above the knee amputation.” AKA is as opposed to BKA, a below-the-knee amputation.

Above the knee. Acanthamoeba keratitis. Actinic keratosis.

Partial or complete blockage of the breathing passages to the lungs. Causes include the presence of foreign matter, allergic reactions, infections, anatomical abnormalities, and trauma. Associated respiratory distress may be sudden, with only a cough for a warning. There is often agitation in the early stages. Other signs include labored, ineffective breathing, until the person is no longer breathing (apneic). Loss of consciousness occurs if…

The path that air follows to get into and out of the lungs. The mouth and nose are the normal entry and exit ports for the airway. Entering air then passes through the back of the throat (pharynx) and continues through the voice box (larynx), down the trachea, to finally pass through the bronchi.