AMMONIAEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Ammoniaemia, also known as hyperammonemia, is a medical condition characterized by an elevated level of ammonia in the bloodstream. Ammonia is a waste product produced during the metabolism of protein in the body. It is normally converted into urea in the liver, and then eliminated through urine. However, when the liver is unable to properly convert ammonia, it can build up in the bloodstream, leading to ammoniaemia.
Ammoniaemia can be classified into two primary types: congenital and acquired. Congenital hyperammonemia occurs due to inherited genetic mutations that disrupt the liver's ability to process ammonia. Acquired hyperammonemia, on the other hand, is usually caused by liver dysfunction or damage resulting from various factors such as liver disease, medication side effects, or alcohol abuse.
The symptoms of ammoniaemia can range from mild to severe and may include confusion, disorientation, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, irritability, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, coma or death. The presence of high ammonia levels in the blood can have toxic effects on the central nervous system, leading to neurological impairments.
Diagnosing ammoniaemia typically involves blood tests to measure ammonia levels. Treatment options for this condition aim to reduce ammonia levels in the blood and include interventions such as dietary changes, medications, and in severe cases, dialysis. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent further complications and manage the underlying cause contributing to the condition.
In summary, ammoniaemia refers to the condition of having elevated levels of ammonia in the bloodstream, often due to liver dysfunction. It can lead to various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe, and requires appropriate medical intervention for management.
Etymology of AMMONIAEMIA
The word "ammoniaemia" is derived from two main components: "ammonia" and the medical suffix "-emia".
The term "ammonia" comes from the Latin word "ammoniacum", which refers to gum-resin obtained from the plant called Dorema ammoniacum. This resin has a strong odor that resembles ammonia. The Latin "ammoniacum" has its roots in Greek, derived from "ammōniakon" or "ammoniakē" meaning "made of an Egyptian gum resin".
The suffix "-emia" is a combining form from the Greek word "aima", meaning "blood". It is commonly used in medical terms to indicate a condition or presence in the blood.
Therefore, "ammoniaemia" can be understood as a medical term denoting the presence of ammonia in the blood.
