Amebic Abscess is a medical condition caused by a parasitic infection. It is typically spelled as "a-m-e-b-i-c" with the stress on the second syllable "bi," and "a-b-s-c-e-s-s" with the stress on the first syllable "ab." The phonetic transcription for amebic is /əˈmiːbɪk/, with the schwa sound at the beginning and an emphasized "ee" sound in the second syllable. The transcription for abscess is /ˈæbsɛs/, with stress on the first syllable and a shortened vowel sound in the last syllable. Proper spelling is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
An amebic abscess refers to a localized collection of pus caused by an infection with the protozoa Entamoeba histolytica. This condition typically occurs as a complication of amebiasis, an infectious disease primarily affecting the intestines.
The abscess is formed when the parasite invades the liver, causing tissue damage and the accumulation of immune system cells, dead cells, and fluid. Amebic abscesses are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, where the prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica is higher.
The symptoms of amebic abscess may vary, but often include fever, abdominal pain, hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), and sometimes weight loss. If the abscess ruptures, it can cause severe complications such as peritonitis, a potentially life-threatening infection of the abdominal cavity.
Diagnosis of amebic abscess primarily involves imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT scan, which reveals the presence of an enlarged liver with one or more fluid-filled cavities. Laboratory tests like serology, stool examination, or detection of antigen or DNA in the abscess fluid or tissues may also be conducted to confirm the presence of Entamoeba histolytica.
Treatment of amebic abscess typically involves a course of specific antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole to control the infection, followed by drainage of the abscess using a needle or surgical intervention if necessary. In severe cases, additional medications may be given to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Regular monitoring and follow-up are vital to ensure complete resolution and prevent complications.
An abscess of the liver, complicating or following tropical dysentery, which contains amebas.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "amebic abscess" is composed of two main components: "amebic" and "abscess".
The word "amebic" is derived from "amoeba", which refers to a single-celled organism belonging to the group Amoebozoa. It comes from the Greek word "amoibē", meaning "change" or "exchange", as these organisms can constantly change shape.
The term "abscess" originates from the Latin word "abscessus", which signifies "a going away" or "a gathering of pus". This word is formed from the prefix "ab-", indicating "away", and the verb "cedere", meaning "to go" or "to yield".
When combined, "amebic abscess" refers to an abscess caused by an infection with the amebae protozoan, typically Entamoeba histolytica.