ICTERUS GRAVIS Meaning and
Definition
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Icterus gravis, also known as severe jaundice, refers to a medical condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin, sclera (whites of the eyes), and mucous membranes due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that results from the breakdown of red blood cells.
In cases of icterus gravis, the level of bilirubin in the blood is significantly elevated, typically above 5 mg/dL, leading to a more pronounced yellow discoloration compared to milder forms of jaundice. This condition arises when there is a significant impairment in the liver's ability to process and excrete bilirubin.
The causes of icterus gravis can vary and may include various liver diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Blockage of the bile ducts by gallstones or tumors can also obstruct the flow of bile, leading to the development of severe jaundice. In some cases, the condition may be a result of certain genetic disorders or blood disorders, such as hemolytic anemia.
Icterus gravis may present with additional symptoms such as generalized weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, dark-colored urine, and pale stools. Treatment for this severe form of jaundice focuses on addressing the underlying cause, such as managing liver diseases or surgically correcting bile duct blockages.
Due to its potential association with serious liver conditions, it is crucial for individuals experiencing icterus gravis or severe jaundice to seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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Jaundice associated with high fever and delirium, seen in acute yellow atrophy and other destructive diseases of the liver.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ICTERUS GRAVIS
- ucterus gravis
- jcterus gravis
- kcterus gravis
- octerus gravis
- 9cterus gravis
- 8cterus gravis
- ixterus gravis
- ivterus gravis
- ifterus gravis
- idterus gravis
- icrerus gravis
- icferus gravis
- icgerus gravis
- icyerus gravis
- ic6erus gravis
- ic5erus gravis
- ictwrus gravis
- ictsrus gravis
- ictdrus gravis
- ictrrus gravis
Etymology of ICTERUS GRAVIS
The term "icterus gravis" is a Latin medical term used to describe a severe form of jaundice. The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. Icterus: The word "icterus" comes from the Greek word "ikteros" (ἴκτερος), which means "jaundice". Ancient Greeks believed that the condition of jaundice was caused by the presence of excessive bile in the body.
2. Gravis: The word "gravis" is also a Latin term, which means "severe" or "heavy". It is used to indicate the seriousness or intensity of a medical condition.
Therefore, when combined, "icterus gravis" translates to "severe jaundice" in English.
