LYMPHANGIECTASIA Meaning and
Definition
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Lymphangiectasia refers to a medical condition characterized by the abnormal dilation or enlargement of the lymphatic vessels. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and lymph nodes that play a crucial role in the body's immune response and fluid balance.
In lymphangiectasia, there is a disruption in the normal flow of lymph, which can lead to the accumulation of lymph fluid in various tissues and organs. This condition can be either congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life.
Congenital lymphangiectasia is often associated with genetic disorders or developmental abnormalities. It may result in the abnormal dilation of the lymphatic vessels in various parts of the body, including the intestine, lung, and skin. Newborns with this condition may present symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal swelling (ascites), and malnutrition if the digestive system is affected.
Acquired lymphangiectasia can occur secondary to various underlying conditions, such as infections (e.g., filariasis), lymphatic obstruction due to tumors, surgeries, or radiation therapy. It primarily affects the intestines, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and subsequent symptoms like weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalances.
Diagnosis of lymphangiectasia typically involves imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may involve dietary modifications (e.g., low-fat diets), nutritional support, or surgical removal of affected lymphatic tissue. Management of associated symptoms plays a critical role in alleviating the impact of lymphangiectasia on a person's quality of life.
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Dilatation of the lymphatic vessels; lymphangiectasis, lymphangioma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LYMPHANGIECTASIA
- kymphangiectasia
- pymphangiectasia
- oymphangiectasia
- ltmphangiectasia
- lgmphangiectasia
- lhmphangiectasia
- lumphangiectasia
- l7mphangiectasia
- l6mphangiectasia
- lynphangiectasia
- lykphangiectasia
- lyjphangiectasia
- lymohangiectasia
- lymlhangiectasia
- lym-hangiectasia
- lym0hangiectasia
- lympgangiectasia
- lympbangiectasia
- lympnangiectasia
Etymology of LYMPHANGIECTASIA
The word "lymphangiectasia" has its roots in Latin and ancient Greek.
The term can be divided into two parts: "lymphangio-" and "-ectasia".
"Lympangio-" comes from the Greek word "lymphanx" (λυμφαγγός), meaning "lymph vessel" or "lymphatic vessel". The word "lympathos" (λύμφαθος) in Greek also means "clear liquid" or "lymph".
The suffix "-ectasia" is derived from the Greek word "ektasis" (ἔκτασις), meaning "dilation" or "expansion".
Therefore, "lymphangiectasia" combines "lymphangio-" and "-ectasia", to describe a condition characterized by the dilation or expansion of the lymphatic vessels.
Similar spelling words for LYMPHANGIECTASIA
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