The word "hydropic" refers to a medical condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues. The spelling of this term is derived from the Greek word "hydōr" meaning water, and "piēin" meaning to drink, thus the combination 'hydro-pick' gives the correct spelling. The phonetic transcription for this word is /haɪˈdrɒpɪk/, which helps to understand its pronunciation. Hydropic can be a serious condition, and the correct spelling and pronunciation of this term is essential for medical professionals.
Hydropic is an adjective that describes a condition or state characterized by the accumulation or presence of excess fluid in the body's tissues or cavities. The term hydropic is commonly used in medical and biological contexts, particularly in relation to disorders involving abnormal fluid retention or edema.
When applied to cells, hydropic refers to a condition known as cellular hydropic degeneration, in which there is an abnormal influx of fluids into the cytoplasm, resulting in cellular swelling. This can occur due to several factors, such as impaired cellular function, altered membrane permeability, or disruptions in ion channels.
In the medical field, hydropic can also be used to describe an individual suffering from hydrops fetalis, a serious condition in which an excessive accumulation of fluid occurs in the fetus, usually in the abdomen, heart, or lungs. Hydropic fetuses often require medical intervention and monitoring, as the condition can lead to significant complications.
Furthermore, hydropic can be employed to denote a type of distension or swelling of an organ or bodily structure caused by an abnormal increase in fluid volume. For instance, hepatomegaly with hydropic degeneration refers to an enlarged liver characterized by the presence of excessive fluid within its cells.
Overall, the term hydropic is predominantly utilized in scientific and medical contexts to describe the presence of abnormal fluid build-up, swelling, or distension within the body's tissues, cells, or organs.
Resembling dropsy; dropsical.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hydropic" originates from the Greek word "hudropikós" (ὑδρωπικός), derived from "hydor" (ὕδωρ) meaning "water" and "ōps" (ὤψ) meaning "appearance" or "face". In ancient Greek medicine, the term "hydropikós" was used to describe a condition characterized by excessive accumulation of fluid (or water) in the body, resulting in edema or other related symptoms. With time, this term has been adopted into the English language as "hydropic" to refer to conditions or diseases involving fluid retention.