Hemorrhagic measles is a rare, but serious complication of the measles virus. The word is spelled /hɛməˈrædʒɪk ˈmiːzəlz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first two syllables, "hemorrhagic", are pronounced as "hem-uh-RA-jik", with stress on the second syllable. The word "measles" is pronounced as "mee-zuhls" with stress on the first syllable. The spelling reflects the medical terminology for the condition, which causes bleeding under the skin and in internal organs. If left untreated, hemorrhagic measles may result in death.
Hemorrhagic measles is a severe and potentially life-threatening complication of the measles infection. Measles, also known as morbilli, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family. The disease primarily affects the respiratory system but can also involve various other organs and systems.
Hemorrhagic measles refers to a rare and severe form of the measles virus that causes widespread hemorrhage or bleeding throughout the body. It is characterized by the appearance of skin rashes, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes – similar to classic measles symptoms. However, in hemorrhagic measles, the infection progresses more aggressively, and the affected individual may develop bleeding manifestations such as petechiae, ecchymosis, epistaxis, or bleeding gums. Internal bleeding in vital organs such as the lungs, liver, or brain may also occur.
These bleeding complications pose significant risks to the individual's health and can lead to severe organ damage, respiratory distress, neurological impairment, and in some cases, death. Hemorrhagic measles is more commonly observed in individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly those suffering from malnutrition or vitamin A deficiency.
The treatment primarily revolves around supportive care aimed at managing and mitigating symptoms, providing hydration, controlling fever, and ensuring respiratory support if necessary. Prevention through routine vaccination against measles is crucial in protecting individuals from acquiring this potentially fatal complication.
A severe form in which the eruption is dark in color due to an effusion of blood into the skin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "hemorrhagic measles" is not commonly used or recognized in medical terminology. However, if we break down the word into its components, we can infer its potential meaning.
1. Hemorrhagic: Derived from the word "hemorrhage", which refers to excessive bleeding. It comes from the Greek word "haimorrhagia", which combines "haima" meaning "blood" and "rhegnumi" meaning "to break forth".
2. Measles: "Measles" refers to a highly contagious viral infection primarily affecting children, characterized by a rash, fever, cough, and runny nose. The term "measles" comes from the Middle English word "maselen" or "measle", meaning a general eruption or spot. It has roots in the Old English word "mǣsli", which denotes a blemish or spot on the body.