CHALCOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Chalcosis is a medical term used to describe the accumulation of copper in the body's tissues, particularly the liver and brain, due to excessive exposure or overload of copper. It is a condition associated with a variety of diseases, including Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to process and eliminate copper. Chalcosis can also occur as a result of occupational exposure to copper, such as in workers involved in copper smelting, mining, or refining.
The excessive deposition of copper in the affected organs can lead to various symptoms and complications. In the liver, it can cause liver damage, inflammation, and fibrosis, potentially progressing to cirrhosis if left untreated. In the brain, chalcosis can result in neurological symptoms, including movement disorders, tremors, muscle stiffness, and cognitive impairment.
Diagnosis of chalcosis typically involves blood tests to measure copper levels, as well as direct examination of affected tissues through a biopsy. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause but may include chelation therapy, where medications are used to bind and remove excess copper from the body. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be necessary to prevent further organ damage.
Prevention of chalcosis primarily involves minimizing exposure to copper, particularly in occupational settings where copper exposure is high. Additionally, for individuals with genetic predispositions like Wilson's disease, regular monitoring and lifelong management of copper levels are essential to prevent complications associated with chalcosis.
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1. Chronic copper poisoning. 2. A deposit of fine particles of copper in the lungs or other parts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHALCOSIS
- xhalcosis
- vhalcosis
- fhalcosis
- dhalcosis
- cgalcosis
- cbalcosis
- cnalcosis
- cjalcosis
- cualcosis
- cyalcosis
- chzlcosis
- chslcosis
- chwlcosis
- chqlcosis
- chakcosis
- chapcosis
- chaocosis
- chalxosis
- chalvosis
- chalfosis
Etymology of CHALCOSIS
The word "chalcosis" does not have a widespread etymology or an established historical origin. It is a term that currently does not have a fixed definition in medical or scientific dictionaries. In some instances, it has been used to refer to a condition caused by the inhalation of copper particles or dust, leading to lung damage or respiratory issues. However, the term appears to be used infrequently and may not be recognized by all medical professionals. As a result, it is difficult to trace the exact etymology of "chalcosis" since it does not have a significant historical or linguistic usage.
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