INTESTINAL CALCULUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Intestinal calculus refers to a solid, stony mass or concretion that forms in the intestines. It is commonly known as an intestinal stone or fecalith. Intestinal calculi can develop due to the accumulation of fecal matter, mineral salts, and other substances within the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the large intestine.
These calculi are typically composed of hardened feces, which can become compacted and calcified over time, leading to the formation of a hard mass. The accumulation and compaction of fecal matter can occur due to factors such as dehydration, low-fiber diet, poor intestinal motility, or certain medical conditions.
Intestinal calculi can vary in size and may obstruct the passageway of the intestines, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. In severe cases or when left untreated, intestinal stones can cause more serious complications like intestinal perforation, abscess formation, or intestinal obstruction.
Treatment of intestinal calculi involves managing the underlying causes, such as dietary modifications to increase fiber intake, maintaining proper hydration, and ensuring regular bowel movements. In some cases, manual disimpaction or the use of laxatives may be necessary to remove the fecalith. In severe or complicated cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove the intestinal calculi and relieve the obstruction.
Preventive measures for intestinal calculi include maintaining a balanced diet high in fiber and fluids, as well as regular exercise to promote healthy bowel movements and prevent fecal impaction.
-
A concretion in the bowel, either a coprolith or an enterolith.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INTESTINAL CALCULUS
- intestinal calculur
- i ntestinal calculus
- in testinal calculus
- int estinal calculus
- inte stinal calculus
- intes tinal calculus
- intest inal calculus
- intesti nal calculus
- intestin al calculus
- intestina l calculus
- intestinal c alculus
- intestinal ca lculus
- intestinal cal culus
- intestinal calc ulus
- intestinal calcu lus
- intestinal calcul us
- intestinal calculu s
Etymology of INTESTINAL CALCULUS
The etymology of the word "intestinal calculus" can be broken down as follows:
1. Intestinal: The term "intestinal" is derived from the Latin word "intestinus", meaning "internal" or "internal organs". It is related to the Latin word "intestinus (tractus)", referring specifically to the lower part of the digestive system, also known as the intestines.
2. Calculus: The term "calculus" has its roots in the Latin word "calculus", which means "small stone" or "pebble". It originally referred to a method of calculation using pebbles or stones on an abacus. Over time, the word evolved to describe any concretion or stone-like formation occurring within the body.
Therefore, the term "intestinal calculus" combines the Latin roots for "intestines" and "small stone" to describe a stone-like formation found in the intestines.
