Arteritis deformans, also known as rheumatoid arthritis, is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): /ɑːtəraɪtɪs dɪˈfɔːrmənz/. The first syllable is pronounced with an "aa" sound, followed by "tə" and "raɪtɪs". The second word, "deformans", is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, "fɔːrmənz". This word is important in the medical field as it helps to diagnose and treat patients suffering from this condition.
Arteritis deformans, also known as temporal arteritis or giant cell arteritis, is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the large and medium arteries, especially those found in the head, neck, and arms. This condition is characterized by inflammation and damage to the blood vessels, resulting in their narrowing, thickening, and, in severe cases, complete blockage.
The most common symptoms of arteritis deformans include severe headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain, and vision problems. Patients may also experience fatigue, weight loss, fever, and generalized body aches. If left untreated, arteritis deformans can lead to serious complications such as blindness, stroke, or aortic aneurysm.
The precise cause of arteritis deformans remains unknown; however, it is believed to involve an autoimmune response, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own blood vessels. The disease primarily affects individuals over the age of 50, with women being more commonly affected than men.
The diagnosis of arteritis deformans is based on clinical symptoms, blood tests that show elevated levels of inflammatory markers, and a biopsy of an affected artery to confirm the presence of giant cells. Treatment usually involves high-dose corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the blood vessels. Other immunosuppressive medications may also be prescribed to manage the condition.
Overall, arteritis deformans is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the blood vessels, predominantly in the head and neck region. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and preserve the patient's overall well-being.
Endarteritis deformans chronic inflammation of the intima with thickening and subsequent degeneration.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "arteritis deformans" is a medical term used to describe a type of arterial inflammation known as Takayasu arteritis. This condition primarily affects the aorta and its branches, leading to progressive narrowing, thickening, and damage to the arteries.
The etymology of the term "arteritis deformans" comes from Latin and Greek roots.
1. "Arteritis" is derived from the Latin word "arteria", which means artery, and the suffix "-itis", which refers to inflammation. Therefore, "arteritis" denotes inflammation of the arteries.
2. "Deformans" is a Latin word that means "deforming" or "changing shape".
Therefore, "arteritis deformans" can be understood as "inflammation of the arteries causing deformity or changes in shape". This term was traditionally used to describe the condition now known as Takayasu arteritis.