Basophilia is a medical term referring to an increase in the number of basophils in the blood. The spelling of the word is based on the Greek root "baso-" meaning "deep" or "base," and the suffix "-philia" which means "love of" or "tendency towards." The correct pronunciation of basophilia is [bæsəˈfɪliə], with the stress being on the second syllable. It is important to use correct spelling and pronunciation of medical terms to ensure they are understood and used effectively in medical communication.
Basophilia is a medical term that refers to an abnormal increase in the number of basophils in the bloodstream. Basophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the body's immune response, particularly in allergic reactions. They are characterized by their distinctive blue-purple staining when viewed under a microscope.
In a normal healthy individual, basophils make up a very small percentage of the total white blood cell count. When a person experiences basophilia, there is an excessive production or release of basophils from the bone marrow or increased circulation of these cells, resulting in higher than normal levels in the blood.
Basophilia can be a result of various conditions, including certain types of infections, inflammation, allergic reactions, or autoimmune diseases. It can also be associated with certain types of leukemia or myeloproliferative disorders, where there is an abnormal overproduction of blood cells. Medical professionals may frequently screen for basophilia through a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures the number and proportion of various types of blood cells.
Symptoms of basophilia may vary depending on the underlying cause, but can include fatigue, weakness, recurrent infections, itchiness, and generalized allergic symptoms. Treatment of basophilia typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as treating infection, managing inflammation, or utilizing specific therapies for certain blood disorders.
1. A condition in which basophil or mast cells are present in undue number. 2. A degenerative condition of the erythrocytes in which they present a number of minute granules taking a basic stain; granular degeneration, basophilic degeneration, punctate basophilia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "basophilia" is derived from two Greek roots: "baso-" and "-philia".
1. "Baso-" comes from the Greek word "basos", meaning "base" or "alkali". This root often refers to substances or cells that have a basic or alkaline nature.
2. "-philia" is derived from the Greek word "philia", which translates to "love" or "attraction". In scientific terminology, "-philia" is typically used to describe an abnormal liking or affinity for a particular substance or condition.
Combining these two roots, "basophilia" refers to a condition or phenomenon characterized by an abnormal attraction or increase in the number of basophilic white blood cells. These cells stain with basic dyes and play a role in immune responses and allergic reactions.