Hydradenitis is a medical term derived from the Greek words "hudor" meaning water or sweat, "aden" for gland, and "itis" to signify inflammation. The correct pronunciation of hydradenitis is [hahy-druh-dn-ahy-tis], with the primary stress on the second syllable. The "y" in "Hydradenitis" is pronounced as the short "i" sound, and the "a" is pronounced as "ah." The "tis" at the end of the word is pronounced "tiss" with a soft "s" at the end. This skin condition refers to the inflammation of sweat glands, most commonly in the armpits or groin.
Hydradenitis, also known as hidradenitis suppurativa, is a chronic skin condition characterized by the inflammation and formation of painful, recurrent nodules or abscesses. It primarily affects areas of the body where apocrine sweat glands are located, such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks.
The condition is believed to occur due to a combination of factors, including clogged hair follicles, bacterial colonization, and abnormal immune response. The initial symptoms often include the formation of tender, red bumps that can enlarge and become painful over time. These bumps may rupture and drain pus, forming sinus tracts. The healing process typically results in scarring and the development of more nodules.
Hydradenitis commonly appears after puberty and is more prevalent among women. It is often associated with other conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and smoking. The exact cause of hydradenitis remains unclear, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
The treatment of hydradenitis aims to control symptoms, reduce inflammation, and manage infections. This can be achieved through various approaches, such as the use of topical or oral antibiotics, corticosteroids, pain medications, and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove affected tissue or create drainage paths for abscesses.
Although hydradenitis can significantly impact a person's quality of life due to pain, discomfort, and potential scarring, ongoing research is being conducted to better understand the condition and develop more effective treatments.
Inflammation of a sweat gland.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Hydradenitis" is a medical term that refers to a condition known as hidradenitis suppurativa. Its etymology is derived from two Greek words.
The first part, "hidros", means sweat, and it comes from the Greek word "ἱδρώς" (idrós). This root denotes any term related to sweat glands or perspiration.
The second part, "aden", refers to glands. This term is derived from the Greek word "ἀδήν" (adḗn), which represents glands or lymph nodes.
Therefore, "hidradenitis" combines these two Greek roots to describe a condition characterized by inflammation and infection of sweat glands.