Achylia is a medical term that refers to the absence of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. The phonetic transcription of achylia is əˈkaɪliə. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced as a schwa, while the "ch" is pronounced as a hard "k." The final syllable is pronounced with a long "e," and the stress falls on the second syllable. The unique spelling of this word reflects its medical origin and its precise definition. Accurate spelling of medical terms is essential for clear communication in the healthcare field.
Achylia is a medical term used to describe a condition where there is a complete absence or deficiency of gastric juice secretion in the stomach. The term is derived from the Greek words "a," meaning without, and "chylus," referring to a milky fluid produced during digestion. This condition is also known as gastric or stomach atrophy, as it often involves the shrinkage and damage of the stomach lining.
The primary cause of achylia is usually related to an autoimmune process, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the cells responsible for producing gastric juices. Other factors that can contribute to achylia include infections, malnutrition, certain medications, or surgeries that involve stomach removal or bypass procedures.
Symptoms of achylia may vary but commonly include a feeling of fullness, discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and unintentional weight loss. Individuals with achylia often experience challenges in properly digesting food, leading to malabsorption of vital nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins, which can result in deficiencies and nutritional imbalances.
Treatment for achylia primarily aims to manage symptoms and restore nutritional balance. This may involve dietary changes and supplementation to compensate for deficiencies. Patients with achylia may also require regular monitoring and follow-up with healthcare professionals to ensure appropriate management and prevent further complications such as anemia or osteoporosis.
1. Absence of the chyle. 2. Absence of the gastric juice or other digestive ferment.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "achylia" is derived from the Greek word "a-" meaning "without" or "not", and "chyle" which refers to the milky fluid formed in the small intestine during digestion. "Achylia" thus describes a condition characterized by the absence of chyle or the failure to form chyle in the digestive process, particularly in relation to the stomach.