CONGENITAL ELEPHANTIASIS Meaning and
Definition
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Congenital elephantiasis refers to a rare, chronic, and progressive condition characterized by abnormal enlargement and swelling of body parts, most commonly the limbs. This condition is present at birth or develops shortly after, usually during infancy or childhood. It is considered a congenital disorder as it is caused by genetic or developmental abnormalities.
The primary cause of congenital elephantiasis is believed to be dysfunction in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for maintaining fluid balance and immune function in the body. Congenital malformation or damage to the lymphatic vessels or nodes can lead to impaired lymphatic drainage, resulting in the accumulation of excessive fluid or lymph in the affected area. This fluid buildup causes persistent swelling, enlargement, and hardening of the affected body part, resembling the thick, rough skin of an elephant.
Congenital elephantiasis can affect various body parts, but it most commonly affects the limbs, particularly the legs. The condition often results in debilitating physical and functional impairments, including restricted movement, pain, recurrent infections, and social stigmatization. Treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary approach aimed at managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and preventing complications. This may include compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, medications, surgical interventions, and supportive care.
Congenital elephantiasis is a lifelong condition that requires long-term management and support. However, early diagnosis, appropriate intervention, and proper management can significantly improve the prognosis and quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.
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Congenital enlargement of one or more of the limbs or other parts, due to dilatation of the lymphatics.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CONGENITAL ELEPHANTIASIS
- c ongenital elephantiasis
- co ngenital elephantiasis
- con genital elephantiasis
- cong enital elephantiasis
- conge nital elephantiasis
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- congenital e lephantiasis
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- congenital eleph antiasis
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- congenital elephan tiasis
- congenital elephant iasis
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- congenital elephantia sis
- congenital elephantias is
- congenital elephantiasi s
Etymology of CONGENITAL ELEPHANTIASIS
The term "congenital elephantiasis" is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement and hardening of body parts, typically the limbs or genital area. The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Congenital: The word "congenital" comes from the Latin word "congenitus", which combines "con-" (meaning "together" or "with") and "genitus" (meaning "born" or "begotten"). Therefore, "congenital" refers to a condition or trait that is present from birth.
2. Elephantiasis: This term derives from the Greek word "elephantiasis", which means "disease of the elephant". This Greek word, in turn, is a combination of "elephant-" (referring to an elephant) and "-iasis" (a suffix used to denote a disease or abnormal condition).
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