Adipocele, pronounced /ædɪpəʊsiːl/, is a medical term that refers to a herniation of the fatty tissue through a defect in the abdominal wall. The word is derived from two roots: "adipo-" meaning fat, and "-cele" which refers to a sac or cyst. The spelling of the word is consistent with the pronunciation as it follows the rules of English phonetics, with the stress falling on the second syllable. As with many medical terms, it can be challenging to spell, but learning the IPA phonetic transcription can make it more accessible.
An adipocele is a medical condition characterized by the presence of a hernia containing fatty tissues. It refers to an abnormal protrusion or bulge in the abdominal region or inguinal canal, resulting from an opening or weakness in the abdominal wall. This allows the peritoneum (the thin lining of the abdomen) to push through and form a sac, wherein fatty tissues accumulate.
Typically, an adipocele is painless and slow-growing. It is most commonly found in areas where fat tissue is abundant, such as the groin or lower abdomen. Adipoceles can occur in people of all ages, although they are more frequent in men than women. Those who are overweight or obese may be at a higher risk of developing an adipocele due to increased intra-abdominal pressure.
Clinical diagnosis of an adipocele involves a physical examination, wherein a doctor may palpate and feel the protrusion. Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI might be utilized to confirm the diagnosis and help determine the size and location of the hernia.
While adipoceles may not cause any symptoms or serious complications, surgical intervention is often recommended to repair the hernia and prevent potential complications like bowel obstruction or strangulation. Surgery typically involves repairing the weakened abdominal wall and returning the fatty tissues to their normal position within the abdomen.
Overall, an adipocele is a hernia that contains fatty tissues and requires medical attention to prevent any potential complications.
The presence of fatty tissue without intestine in a hernial sac.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "adipocele" is derived from two Latin roots: "adipo" meaning fat, and "cele" meaning swelling or hernia.