How Do You Spell CHORIOMENINGITIS?

Pronunciation: [kˌɔːɹɪˌə͡ʊmɪnɪnd͡ʒˈa͡ɪtɪs] (IPA)

Choriomeningitis (/ˌkɔːriəʊmɛnɪŋˈɡaɪtɪs/) is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system. The word's spelling reflects its Greek roots; "chorio-" (meaning "membrane" or "skin") and "meningitis" (meaning inflammation of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord). The letter combination "-io-" represents the elimination of a vowel sound ("o"), a common feature of Greek-derived medical terms. Mastering the spelling of complex medical terms like choriomeningitis can aid in accurate communication between healthcare professionals and improve patient care.

CHORIOMENINGITIS Meaning and Definition

1. Choriomeningitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and swelling in the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, specifically the meninges. It is often caused by infection with the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), a type of virus from the family Arenaviridae.

   The symptoms of choriomeningitis can vary from mild to severe and may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, muscle aches, and fatigue. In some cases, the infection can also lead to neurological complications, such as confusion, seizures, and paralysis.

   Choriomeningitis primarily spreads through direct contact with infected rodents, such as mice and hamsters, or their urine, saliva, or droppings. It can also be transmitted from infected mother to fetus during pregnancy, resulting in congenital choriomeningitis.

   Diagnosis of choriomeningitis often involves laboratory testing to identify the virus in the patient's blood or cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment typically focuses on supportive care, such as rest, fluids, and medication to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases or for individuals at higher risk, antiviral medications may be prescribed.

   Prevention of choriomeningitis involves practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with rodents or their droppings, and properly cleaning and disinfecting areas that may be contaminated. Pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems should take extra precautions to reduce the risk of infection.

Common Misspellings for CHORIOMENINGITIS

• choriomenjngitis

Etymology of CHORIOMENINGITIS

The word "choriomeningitis" is derived from Greek roots.

- "Chorio" (χορίο) comes from the Greek word "chorion" (χορίον), which means "skin" or "membrane". It refers to the outermost layer of the two membranes surrounding the fetus during pregnancy.

- "Meningitis" comes from the Greek word "meninx" (μῆνιγξ), meaning "membrane" or "cover", and the suffix "-itis", which means inflammation. It is a medical term referring to the inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Thus, when combined, "choriomeningitis" literally means "inflammation of the membranes surrounding the fetus and the meninges", typically referring to a viral infection affecting these areas.

Plural form of CHORIOMENINGITIS is CHORIOMENINGITES OR CHORIOMENINGITISES