Empyemic scoliosis is a medical term used to describe a spinal curvature caused by an infection in the pleural cavity, the cavity surrounding the lungs. The word is spelled as "em-py-em-ic sco-li-o-sis" with the phonetic transcription /ɛm.paɪˈɛm.ɪk skɒliˈoʊsɪs/. The first part of the word "empyemic" is pronounced as "em-py-em-ic", with the stress on the second syllable. The second part of the word "scoliosis" is pronounced as "sco-li-o-sis", with the primary stress on the second syllable.
Empyemic scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal curvature of the spine that occurs as a result of empyema, a severe infection and accumulation of pus in the pleural space (the space between the lungs and the chest wall).
The term "empyemic" refers to the presence of infected or pus-filled fluid, while "scoliosis" describes a sideways or lateral curvature of the spine. In the case of empyemic scoliosis, the infection and pus accumulation cause inflammation and structural changes in the tissues surrounding the spine, leading to the abnormal curvature.
Empyemic scoliosis typically presents with symptoms such as back pain, difficulty breathing, and a visible deformation of the spine. The severity of the scoliosis may vary, ranging from mild to severe depending on the extent of the empyema and the resulting tissue damage.
Diagnosis of empyemic scoliosis involves a thorough physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to assess the degree of curvature and identify the underlying cause. Treatment options for empyemic scoliosis often include a combination of antibiotics to treat the underlying infection, drainage of the empyema, and physical therapy to manage pain and improve spinal alignment. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the spinal deformity and restore normal alignment. Long-term monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure the proper management of the condition and prevent further complications.
S. Due to retraction of one side of the chest following an empyema.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "empyemic scoliosis" does not have a specific etymology as it is a medical term rather than a word in everyday language. However, it can be broken down into its component parts to understand its meaning.
1. Empyemic: This term is derived from the word "empyema", which is a medical term referring to a collection of pus in a body cavity, typically a result of a bacterial infection. The word "empyema" itself comes from the Greek words "em" (in) and "pyon" (pus).
2. Scoliosis: This term refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine. It comes from the Greek word "skoliosis", meaning "crooked" or "curved".
Therefore, "empyemic scoliosis" is a medical term that describes an abnormal curvature of the spine caused by a collection of pus in the body cavity.