Glossary

List of terms beginning with Ac

Acid reflux: Acid reflux, or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), is a condition where the liquid contents of the stomach are regurgitated into the oesophagus. This liquid irritates the oesophagus, and is a common cause of heartburn.
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS): Serious chronic disease caused by infection with a virus called the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The virus weakens the immune system making the patient vulnerable to infection, certain cancers and other disorders.
Acute: A disease of short duration that is typically severe. Often contrasted with chronic.
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL): Type of leukaemia in which too many immature lymphocyte, white blood cells are produced. Acute leukaemia can progress very quickly, if untreated. The main type of leukaemia in children but can also affect adults.
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML): Type of leukaemia in which the body produces too many granulocyte or monocyte precursor cells (types of white blood cells collectively known as 'myeloid' cells). Acute leukaemia can progress very quickly, if untreated.
Acute non-lymphocytic leukaemia: The term for any acute leukaemia that does not involve lymphocyte white blood cells. Includes acute myeloid leukaemia, the most common form.