DISCITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Discitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the intervertebral discs, the cushions that separate the vertebrae in the spine. This inflammation typically arises as a result of an infection, although it can also occur due to injury or be of unknown origin. Discitis most commonly affects the discs in the lower back (lumbar spine), but can also occur in the neck (cervical spine).
The primary symptom of discitis is persistent and severe back or neck pain, which is often worse with movement or activity. Other symptoms may include stiffness, tenderness, and limited range of motion in the affected area. In some cases, individuals may experience fever, chills, and weight loss. Discitis can be a particularly challenging condition to diagnose because symptoms may mimic other spinal disorders, such as herniated discs or spinal arthritis.
Treatment for discitis involves addressing the underlying cause, which is typically an infection. This often involves a combination of antibiotic therapy and pain management techniques. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for intravenous antibiotics. Surgery may be necessary in rare cases if conservative measures are not effective or if there are complications such as abscess formation or neurological impairment.
Overall, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in managing discitis and preventing potential complications, such as spinal deformity or nerve damage. A thorough medical evaluation, including imaging studies, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.
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Inflammation of any disc, especially of an interarticular cartilage; meniscitis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DISCITIS
- discities
- siscitis
- xiscitis
- ciscitis
- fiscitis
- riscitis
- eiscitis
- duscitis
- djscitis
- dkscitis
- doscitis
- d9scitis
- d8scitis
- diacitis
- dizcitis
- dixcitis
- didcitis
- diecitis
- diwcitis
- disxitis
Etymology of DISCITIS
The word "discitis" is derived from the Latin term "discus" (meaning "disc" or "disk") and the suffix "-itis" (indicating inflammation). So, "discitis" refers to the inflammation of the intervertebral discs in the spine.
