CAROTINEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Carotinemia is a medical condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of carotene, a reddish-yellow pigment found in fruits and vegetables, in the blood. It is also known as hypercarotenemia. Carotene is a provitamin A, meaning it can be converted into vitamin A by the body. This pigment is responsible for the vibrant orange and yellow colors seen in carrots, sweet potatoes, and other similar foods.
In carotinemia, the excessive consumption of carotene-rich foods or supplements leads to the buildup of carotene in the blood. As a result, an individual's skin may develop a yellowish or orange tint. The sclerae or whites of the eyes may also become yellow, but this condition does not cause jaundice or liver dysfunction.
Carotinemia itself is considered a benign condition and typically subsides once the consumption of carotene is reduced. However, it may also be a sign of an underlying condition, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, or anorexia nervosa. Therefore, if carotinemia persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and to rule out any potential underlying disorders.
In summary, carotinemia is an excessive accumulation of carotene in the blood that causes the skin to appear yellow or orange. It is generally harmless and resolves by reducing carotene intake, but may necessitate medical attention if it persists or is associated with other health concerns.
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The presence of carotin in the circulating blood; when in excess it causes a yellow discoloration of the skin resembling jaundice.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CAROTINEMIA
- carottenemia
- carotenemia
- xarotinemia
- varotinemia
- farotinemia
- darotinemia
- czrotinemia
- csrotinemia
- cwrotinemia
- cqrotinemia
- caeotinemia
- cadotinemia
- cafotinemia
- catotinemia
- ca5otinemia
- ca4otinemia
- caritinemia
- carktinemia
- carltinemia
- carptinemia
Etymology of CAROTINEMIA
The word "carotinemia" is derived from two main elements: "carotene" and the suffix "-emia".
The term "carotene" originated from the Latin word "carota" meaning "carrot". Carotene is a pigment found in orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, particularly carrots. It is responsible for the vibrant color of these foods.
The suffix "-emia" comes from the Greek word "haima" meaning "blood". It is commonly used in medical terminology to denote a condition or presence of a substance in the blood.
Therefore, "carotinemia" refers to a condition characterized by the presence of excess carotene in the blood, leading to an orange-yellow discoloration of the skin.
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