ANGIECTASIA VENOSA Meaning and
Definition
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Angiectasia venosa refers to a medical condition characterized by the formation of small, dilated blood vessels or veins in the gastrointestinal tract, predominantly the colon. Sometimes referred to as colonic angiodysplasia, this condition typically occurs in individuals over the age of 60, although it can be found in younger individuals as well.
Angiectasia venosa is thought to develop due to abnormalities in the structure and function of blood vessels in the colon. These blood vessels become fragile and prone to rupture, leading to the development of small vascular malformations or lesions. These lesions are typically small, measuring between 2 to 10 millimeters in diameter, and are usually found on the right side of the colon.
The exact cause of angiectasia venosa is not fully understood, but it has been associated with age-related changes in blood vessel walls, such as degenerative changes in the elastic fibers and collagen. Other potential risk factors for developing angiectasia venosa include chronic kidney disease, von Willebrand disease, atherosclerosis, and the use of certain medications.
The presence of angiectasia venosa may not always cause noticeable symptoms, but when symptoms occur, they can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include intermittent episodes of painless, bright red rectal bleeding, which may occur spontaneously or during bowel movements. In some cases, the bleeding may be significant and require medical attention.
Diagnosis of angiectasia venosa typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, endoscopy, or angiography. Treatment options for angiectasia venosa depend on the severity of symptoms and may include medication to reduce bleeding, endoscopic procedures to cauterize or remove the lesions, or, in rare cases
Etymology of ANGIECTASIA VENOSA
The etymology of the word "Angiectasia venosa" can be broken down as follows:
1. Angiectasia:
- "Angi-" comes from the Greek word "angeion", meaning "vessel" or "container".
- "-ectasia" comes from the Greek word "ektasis", meaning "stretching" or "dilation".
Therefore, "Angiectasia" refers to the stretching or dilation of a vessel.
2. Venosa:
- "Venosa" is derived from the Latin word "venosus", which means "venous" or "pertaining to veins".
Combining these components, "Angiectasia venosa" refers to the dilation or stretching of venous vessels.
