The word "acromastitis" is spelled as "əkrəʊmæ'staɪtɪs". IPA phonetic transcription is used to accurately represent the sounds in the word. The first two syllables, "a" and "cro", are pronounced with a schwa sound followed by a "k" and "r" sound respectively. The third syllable "ma" is pronounced with a short "a" sound, and "st" is pronounced as "s" and "t" separately. The last two syllables "i" and "tis" are pronounced as "eye" and "tis" respectively.
Acromastitis is a medical term that refers to the inflammation of the mammary glands, which are located in the breasts. Specifically, it relates to inflammation that occurs in the nipples or the central part of the breast.
This condition primarily affects lactating individuals, occurring as a result of complications in breastfeeding. Acromastitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, commonly by staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria enters the breast tissue through small cracks or openings in the nipples, which can be a result of improper latching or nipple irritation.
Symptoms of acromastitis often include breast pain, tenderness, and soreness that can be localized to a specific area. The affected breast may appear red, swollen, and warm to the touch. Some individuals may also experience fever, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.
Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the infection from spreading and causing complications such as an abscess or mastitis. Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. It is also recommended to continue breastfeeding or pumping milk to ensure proper milk drainage. Applying warm compresses and maintaining good hygiene practices, such as cleaning the nipples before and after each breastfeeding session, can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
In summary, acromastitis is an inflammation of the mammary glands, specifically occurring in the nipples or central breast area, primarily caused by a bacterial infection. It commonly affects lactating individuals and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.
Thelitis, inflammation of the nipple.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "acromastitis" is derived from two Greek roots: "acro-" and "mastitis".
1. "Acro-" is a prefix that comes from the Greek word "akros", meaning "extremity" or "topmost part". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to the highest or farthest point of a body part or structure.
2. "Mastitis" is a term originating from the Greek word "mastos", which means "breast". It refers to the inflammation or infection of the breast tissue, typically caused by bacteria.
Therefore, "acromastitis" combines these two elements to describe the inflammation or infection that specifically occurs in the uppermost part of the breast.