LYMPHANGIOLEIOMYOMA Meaning and
Definition
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Lymphangioleiomyoma is a rare medical condition characterized by the formation of multiple benign tumors called leiomyomas in the lymphatic system. Leiomyomas are smooth muscle tumors that usually develop in the uterus (fibroids) or gastrointestinal tract, but in the case of lymphangioleiomyoma, they form in the lymphatic vessels.
These tumors primarily affect women and are typically found in the lungs, although they can also occur in other areas such as lymph nodes, skin, and other organs. Lymphangioleiomyoma is strongly associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow in various organs of the body.
Symptoms of lymphangioleiomyoma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumors. Common symptoms include difficulty breathing, coughing, chest pain, and pneumothorax (collapsed lung). As the condition progresses, it can lead to lung function impairment and ultimately respiratory failure.
The exact cause of lymphangioleiomyoma is unknown, but research suggests that it is related to genetic mutations. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs, along with a biopsy to confirm the presence of leiomyomas.
Treatment options for lymphangioleiomyoma focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications. These may include medication to reduce tumor growth, surgical removal of larger tumors, lung transplantation in severe cases, and other supportive therapies.
In summary, lymphangioleiomyoma is a rare condition characterized by benign smooth muscle tumors that form in the lymphatic vessels, primarily in the lungs. It is often associated with tuberous sclerosis complex and can cause respiratory symptoms and complications. Treatment aims to manage symptoms and prevent further complications.
Common Misspellings for LYMPHANGIOLEIOMYOMA
- kymphangioleiomyoma
- pymphangioleiomyoma
- oymphangioleiomyoma
- ltmphangioleiomyoma
- lgmphangioleiomyoma
- lhmphangioleiomyoma
- lumphangioleiomyoma
- l7mphangioleiomyoma
- l6mphangioleiomyoma
- lynphangioleiomyoma
- lykphangioleiomyoma
- lyjphangioleiomyoma
- lymohangioleiomyoma
- lymlhangioleiomyoma
- lym-hangioleiomyoma
- lym0hangioleiomyoma
- lympgangioleiomyoma
- lympbangioleiomyoma
- lympnangioleiomyoma
- lympjangioleiomyoma
Etymology of LYMPHANGIOLEIOMYOMA
The word "lymphangioleiomyoma" is derived from several parts:
1. "Lymphangio-" comes from the Greek word "lympha", meaning "clear water" or "pure water", and "angeion", meaning "vessel". In medical terminology, it refers to lymph vessels.
2. "Leio-" comes from the Greek "leios", meaning "smooth".
3. "Myoma" comes from the Greek "muoma", meaning "swelling" or "tumor-like mass".
Combining these components, "lymphangioleiomyoma" refers to a tumor-like mass composed of smooth muscle cells that affects lymph vessels.
