GAS ABSCESS Meaning and
Definition
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A gas abscess refers to an encapsulated collection of gas within a tissue or organ in the body, typically caused by infection or tissue necrosis. It is characterized by the presence of gas-producing bacteria, which generate gas as a byproduct of their metabolic activities. The gas produced accumulates within the affected area, leading to the formation of a pocket filled with gas and pus.
Gas abscesses most commonly occur in deep tissues, such as muscles and organs, but can also be found in superficial areas. The main causative agents for gas abscesses are certain bacterial species, including Clostridium perfringens, Bacteroides fragilis, and Escherichia coli, among others. These bacteria invade the tissue, initiating an infection that subsequently promotes gas production.
Symptoms of a gas abscess typically include localized pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. The affected area may also feel tender to the touch. In some cases, individuals may experience systemic symptoms such as fever and chills. Gas abscesses require prompt medical attention to prevent further complications, as they can cause tissue destruction and spread of infection to other areas of the body.
Diagnosis of a gas abscess is usually determined through a combination of physical examination, imaging techniques (such as X-ray, computed tomography or CT scan), and laboratory tests (including culture and sensitivity of pus). Treatment typically involves a combination of surgical drainage of the abscess and administration of antibiotics to eliminate the infection.
In summary, a gas abscess is an enclosed collection of gas and pus caused by bacterial infection, commonly found in deep tissues, which requires medical intervention for management and treatment.
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An a. containing gas, due to the presence of Bacillus aerogenes or other species of gas-forming microorganism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GAS ABSCESS
- fas abscess
- vas abscess
- bas abscess
- has abscess
- yas abscess
- tas abscess
- gzs abscess
- gss abscess
- gws abscess
- gqs abscess
- gaa abscess
- gaz abscess
- gax abscess
- gad abscess
- gae abscess
- gaw abscess
- gas zbscess
- gas sbscess
- gas wbscess
- gas qbscess
Etymology of GAS ABSCESS
The word "gas abscess" is a medical term that is composed of two separate components: "gas" and "abscess".
1. "Gas": The term "gas" is derived from the Greek word "chaos" (meaning "empty space") through the Latin word "chaos" (meaning "vaporous exhalation"). Over time, the meaning of "gas" evolved to refer to a substance that expands to fill any given space. The word "gas" started being used in English in the early 17th century.
2. "Abscess": The term "abscess" comes from the Latin word "abscessus", which means "a going away" or "departure". In Latin, it specifically referred to the evacuation of humors or decayed matter from the body.
