HYPERSPLENISM Meaning and
Definition
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Hypersplenism is a medical condition characterized by abnormal functioning of the spleen, resulting in excessive destruction of blood cells and a subsequent decrease in their numbers in the bloodstream. The term "hypersplenism" is derived from the prefix "hyper," meaning excessive or overactive, and the word "spleen," which refers to the large organ located in the upper left side of the abdomen, involved in filtering and storing blood cells.
In individuals with hypersplenism, the spleen becomes enlarged and exhibits increased activity, leading to the accelerated breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis), white blood cells (leukopenia), and platelets (thrombocytopenia). Consequently, there is a reduction in the number of these important blood components circulating in the body, which can lead to various symptoms and complications.
Common signs and symptoms of hypersplenism may include fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, pale skin, and an enlarged liver. Additionally, hypersplenism can result in anemia, a compromised immune response, and an increased risk of bleeding disorders.
Causes of hypersplenism may include underlying medical conditions such as liver disease, certain cancers, infections, and autoimmune disorders. Treatment for hypersplenism typically involves addressing the underlying cause, if possible, and managing the symptoms. In severe cases, a splenectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the spleen, may be considered to alleviate the excessive destruction of blood cells.
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A condition in which the hemolytic action of the spleen is greatly increased.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPERSPLENISM
- gypersplenism
- bypersplenism
- nypersplenism
- jypersplenism
- uypersplenism
- yypersplenism
- htpersplenism
- hgpersplenism
- hhpersplenism
- hupersplenism
- h7persplenism
- h6persplenism
- hyoersplenism
- hylersplenism
- hy-ersplenism
- hy0ersplenism
- hypwrsplenism
- hypsrsplenism
- hypdrsplenism
Etymology of HYPERSPLENISM
The term "hypersplenism" is derived from the combination of two words:
1. "Hyper": It is a prefix of Greek origin, meaning "excessive" or "over". In medical terminology, it usually indicates an increased or excessive amount.
2. "Splenism": It is derived from the word "spleen", which refers to an organ located in the upper left side of the abdomen. The spleen plays a role in filtering blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells, producing some types of white blood cells, and storing platelets.
Therefore, "hypersplenism" refers to a condition where the spleen becomes overactive or overactive, resulting in an excessive destruction of blood cells, particularly red blood cells.
Similar spelling words for HYPERSPLENISM
- hypercapnia,
- hyperextension,
- hypericism,
- hypersensitive,
- hypersensitised,
- hyperextend,
- hypercalcemia,
- hypersensitized,
- hypersomnia,
- hypersecretion,
- hypericales.
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