EPIGLOTTITIDES Meaning and
Definition
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Epiglottitides is the plural form of the medical term "epiglottitis." Epiglottitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, a flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue in the throat. The epiglottis plays a crucial role in preventing food and liquids from entering the windpipe during swallowing and breathing.
The primary cause of epiglottitis is usually a bacterial infection, commonly caused by the bacteria Haemophilus influenzae type B. The condition can also be triggered by other pathogens, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria invade the epiglottis, leading to inflammation and subsequent swelling, which can severely obstruct the airway.
Symptoms of epiglottitis include high fever, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, muffled or hoarse voice, drooling, and respiratory distress, which may result in a medical emergency. Due to the potentially life-threatening nature of epiglottitis, prompt medical attention is crucial.
Diagnosis of epiglottitis involves a thorough examination of the throat, airway, and symptoms. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, might also be used to visualize the swelling and assess the severity of the condition.
Treatment typically involves hospitalization, where the patient is closely monitored. Intravenous antibiotics are administered to fight the underlying infection, along with medications to reduce swelling. In some cases, a breathing tube may be necessary to ensure proper airflow. With timely and appropriate medical interventions, the prognosis for epiglottitis is generally excellent, and most individuals recover fully.
Common Misspellings for EPIGLOTTITIDES
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- epihlottitides
Etymology of EPIGLOTTITIDES
The word "Epiglottitides" is derived from two main components: "epiglottitis" and the suffix "-ides".
1. Epiglottitis: This term originates from the Latin words "epi" meaning "upon" or "above", and "glottis" which refers to the part of the larynx that contains the vocal cords. Epiglottitis is a medical condition where the epiglottis, a flap of cartilage at the base of the tongue, becomes inflamed and can block the flow of air into the trachea. The term "epiglottitis" was coined in the late 19th century and is used to describe this specific condition.
2. The suffix "-ides": This suffix is commonly used in medical terminology to denote a condition or disease that resembles or is related to a specific root term.
