The spelling of the medical term "chloasma phthisicum" seems daunting at first, but a closer look reveals a logical pattern. The first part, "chloasma," is pronounced kloh-AZ-muh, with the accent on the second syllable. The second part, "phthisicum," is pronounced tih-ZIK-uhm, with the accent on the first syllable. Together, the term refers to a skin condition associated with tuberculosis. While the spelling may seem intimidating, breaking it down phonetically can make it easier to understand and say with confidence.
Chloasma phthisicum is a medical condition characterized by the presence of patches or spots on the skin that are brownish or yellowish in color. It is typically associated with tuberculosis, a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
The term "chloasma" refers to a pigmentation disorder that causes dark or discolored patches on the skin, commonly seen in conditions such as melasma or pregnancy. In the context of chloasma phthisicum, it specifically refers to the skin discoloration that occurs due to tuberculosis.
The term "phthisicum" is derived from the Greek word "ptisis," meaning wasting or consumption. It is used to describe the characteristic wasting away of the body that often accompanies advanced stages of tuberculosis.
Chloasma phthisicum typically presents as symmetrical patches on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, and nose. These patches may be irregularly shaped and have a bluish or brownish appearance. The condition is thought to result from the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, being stimulated by the immune response to tuberculosis infection or the metabolic changes associated with the disease.
Treatment for chloasma phthisicum involves addressing the underlying tuberculosis infection through appropriate anti-tuberculosis medications. Additionally, cosmetic measures such as sunscreen and makeup may be used to manage the appearance of the skin discoloration. Regular medical follow-up is necessary to monitor both the tuberculosis infection and any associated skin changes.
Pigmentation of the chest in pulmonary tuberculosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "chloasma phthisicum" is derived from two different sources.
1. Chloasma: The term "chloasma" comes from the Greek word "khloásma" (χλοάσμα), which means "greenishness" or "green color". In medical terminology, it typically refers to a condition characterized by dark, irregular patches on the skin, often caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy or due to certain medications. The Greek root "khloásma" is related to the word "khlorós" (χλωρός), meaning "green" or "pale yellow".
2. Phthisicum: The term "phthisicum" is derived from the Greek word "phthísikos" (φθισικός), which means "consumptive" or "pertaining to tuberculosis".