LEUCOCYTHEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Leucocythemia, also known as leukocythemia, is a medical condition characterized by an excessive or abnormal increase in the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood. White blood cells play a crucial role in the body's immune system, defending against infections and diseases. However, in leucocythemia, the overproduction of these cells disrupts the balance and functionality of the immune system.
Leucocythemia is broadly classified into two main types: acute and chronic. Acute leucocythemia progresses rapidly and causes a rapid increase in abnormal white blood cells. It can be potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Chronic leucocythemia, on the other hand, develops more slowly and may not initially cause noticeable symptoms. However, it can progress over time and become more severe if not managed properly.
Symptoms of leucocythemia can vary depending on the specific type and stage of the disease but commonly include fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, weight loss, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and easy bleeding or bruising. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination, complete blood count (CBC), and a bone marrow biopsy to determine the abnormality in white blood cells.
Treatment options for leucocythemia depend on several factors including the type, stage, and overall health of the individual. They may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplantation. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.
In summary, leucocythemia is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal increase in white blood cells, which can disrupt the immune system's normal functioning. It can be acute or chronic and requires proper diagnosis and treatment for optimal management.
Common Misspellings for LEUCOCYTHEMIA
- keucocythemia
- peucocythemia
- oeucocythemia
- lwucocythemia
- lsucocythemia
- lducocythemia
- lrucocythemia
- l4ucocythemia
- l3ucocythemia
- leycocythemia
- lehcocythemia
- lejcocythemia
- leicocythemia
- le8cocythemia
- le7cocythemia
- leuxocythemia
- leuvocythemia
- leufocythemia
- leudocythemia
- leucicythemia
Etymology of LEUCOCYTHEMIA
The word "leucocythemia" is derived from two Greek roots: "leuko" meaning "white" and "cythemia" meaning "blood condition".
The term was initially coined in the late 19th century to describe a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the bloodstream. It was used as an early designation for what is now known as leukemia, a type of cancer that affects the blood-forming tissues and results in overproduction of immature white blood cells.
The Greek prefix "leuko" refers to "white" and is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate the presence or involvement of white blood cells. The suffix "-cythemia" is derived from the Greek word "kýtos" meaning "container" or "cell" and "haíma" meaning "blood". Thus, "cythemia" signifies a blood-related condition.
Similar spelling words for LEUCOCYTHEMIA
