Lymphodermia is a medical condition that affects the skin and lymphatic system. The pronunciation of this word is /lɪmfoʊdɜrmiə/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first part of the word, "lympho," refers to the lymphatic system, while "dermia" refers to the skin. The suffix "-ia" is added to indicate that it is a pathological condition. Overall, the spelling of lymphodermia is phonetically accurate, representing the sounds of its constituent parts.
Lymphodermia is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the swelling and inflammation of the skin due to the accumulation of lymphatic fluid. This condition typically occurs when there is a disruption or blockage within the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining excess fluid and waste from the body's tissues.
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's immune function and fluid balance. When the lymphatic vessels are unable to effectively transport lymphatic fluid, it can lead to the build-up of fluid in the surrounding tissues, resulting in lymphodermia.
Common symptoms of lymphodermia include swelling, redness, and thickening of the skin, often accompanied by pain or tenderness. The affected area may also feel heavy or tight, and in severe cases, the skin may develop ulcers or blisters. Lymphodermia commonly occurs in the arms or legs, but it can also affect other parts of the body.
There are several potential causes of lymphodermia, including lymphatic system damage or obstruction due to surgery, radiation therapy, infection, or trauma. Chronic conditions such as lymphedema and filariasis, a parasitic infection, can also contribute to the development of lymphodermia.
Treatment for lymphodermia focuses on managing the underlying cause of the condition and relieving symptoms. This may involve the use of compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage, exercises, and medications to reduce inflammation.
A condition due to any disease of the cutaneous lymphatics.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "lymphodermia" does not have a well-established etymology as it appears to be a combination of the terms "lympho-" and "-dermia". Let's break it down:
1. Lympho-: "Lympho-" is derived from the Greek word "lymphos", meaning "clear water" or "the juice of a plant". In medical terminology, "lympho-" is typically associated with lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) or lymphatic vessels, referring to the clear fluid called lymph which circulates throughout the body.
2. -Dermia: The suffix "-dermia" is used in medical terminology to refer to skin or related medical conditions. It is derived from the Greek word "dermis", meaning "the true skin" or "hide".