Contagious aphthae, also known as hand, foot, and mouth disease, is a viral infection that primarily affects young children. The word "aphthae" refers to small ulcers that can form in the mouth, while "contagious" refers to its ability to spread from person to person. The spelling of "aphthae" is pronounced as /ˈæfθi/ and is derived from the Greek word "aphtha" which means blister. The spelling of "contagious" is pronounced as /kənˈteɪdʒəs/ and is derived from the Latin word "contāgiō" which means contact or contagion.
Contagious aphthae, also known as herpangina, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children. It is characterized by the appearance of small, painful ulcers or sores in the mouth and throat. The term "contagious aphthae" is derived from the Greek words "aphtha," meaning ulcer, and "kontagion," meaning infection or contagion.
The infection is mainly caused by the Coxsackie group A virus, specifically the Coxsackievirus A type 1-6 and 8-10, or other enteroviruses such as Enterovirus 71. It is typically transmitted through close contact with an infected person, particularly through respiratory droplets when the infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Symptoms of contagious aphthae usually develop within 3 to 6 days after exposure to the virus. Common signs include fever, sore throat, headache, and difficulty swallowing. The characteristic oral lesions, resembling small blisters or ulcers with white or grayish centers and red borders, are a hallmark of the infection. These painful sores may appear on the tonsils, soft palate, uvula, or back of the throat.
Contagious aphthae generally resolves on its own within 7 to 10 days, and treatment focuses on symptom relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, antipyretics, and mouth rinses can help alleviate discomfort. Adequate hydration and a soft diet are also recommended to prevent further irritation. It is important to maintain good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the virus, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
In rare cases, complications may arise, including dehydration due to difficulty swallowing, secondary bacterial infections, or
A. epizooticae.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "contagious aphthae" has its etymology rooted in the Greek language.
The word "aphthae" comes from the Greek word "άφθη" (aphthē), which means "ulcer" or "canker sore".
The word "contagious" originates from the Latin word "contagiosus", which is derived from "contagio" meaning "contact" or "infection". Latin "contagio" itself is formed from the verb "contingo", meaning "to touch" or "to come into contact with".
So, the term "contagious aphthae" essentially combines the Latin word "contagious" with the Greek word "aphthae", to describe a condition where ulcers or canker sores are easily transmitted through contact or infection.