LATENT EMPYEMA Meaning and
Definition
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Latent empyema is a medical term used to describe a condition where pus accumulates in the pleural space of the chest without causing any noticeable symptoms. The pleural space is the area between the lungs and the inner lining of the chest cavity. Empyema refers to the presence of infected fluid or pus in this space.
In a typical case of latent empyema, the infection develops slowly, and the individual remains asymptomatic. The pus may accumulate over an extended period without causing any discomfort or obvious signs of illness. Therefore, latent empyema is often discovered incidentally during medical examinations, imaging tests, or surgical procedures on unrelated conditions.
The condition can arise from various causes, including pneumonia, lung abscess, tuberculosis, or chest trauma. If left untreated, latent empyema can progress to an overt empyema, which is the symptomatic stage characterized by chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, and other signs of infection.
The diagnosis of latent empyema is typically made through imaging tests, such as chest X-rays, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scans. Once the condition is detected, treatment usually involves drainage of the accumulated pus from the pleural space. This is achieved through a procedure known as thoracentesis, where a needle is inserted into the chest to remove the infected fluid.
Prompt recognition and management of latent empyema are crucial to prevent complications and the development of severe symptoms. Therefore, regular medical check-ups and appropriate diagnostic tests play a significant role in identifying the condition when it is still in its latent stage.
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The presence of pus in a cavity, especially one of the accessory sinuses, unattended with subjective symptoms.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LATENT EMPYEMA
- latent empyela
- latent empyemi
- latent empyeme
- latent empyemc
- l atent empyema
- la tent empyema
- lat ent empyema
- late nt empyema
- laten t empyema
- latent e mpyema
- latent empy ema
- latent empye ma
- latent empyem a
Etymology of LATENT EMPYEMA
The word "latent empyema" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.
The term "latent" originated from the Latin word "latens", which means "hidden" or "concealed". In medical contexts, "latent" implies that a condition or disease is present but not currently manifesting any symptoms. It can also indicate a period of inactivity or dormancy.
"Empyema" has its origin in the Greek language. The word is a combination of "em-" which means "in" or "within", and "pyon", meaning "pus". Therefore, "empyema" refers to a collection of pus within a cavity, usually referring to the pleural space around the lungs.
