The spelling "macula gonorrhoica" refers to a symptom of the sexually transmitted infection, gonorrhea. The word "macula" is pronounced /ˈmakjʊlə/ and means a flat, discolored spot on the skin. "Gonorrhoica" is pronounced /ˌɡɒnəˈriːkə/ and refers to something related to gonorrhea. The unique spelling of "gonorrhoica" reflects the Greek origins of the word. While difficult to spell, it is important for healthcare professionals to correctly identify this symptom in order to properly diagnose and treat patients with gonorrhea.
Macula gonorrhoica, also known as gonorrheal macula, is a medical term used to describe a specific sign or symptom associated with gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
The term macula refers to a small, flat, and discolored area on the skin or mucous membranes, typically characterized by a change in color or texture. In the context of gonorrhea, macula gonorrhoica specifically refers to small, red or purplish macules that appear on the skin or mucous membranes as a result of the infection.
These macules typically manifest on the genital area, particularly in individuals with untreated or poorly managed gonorrhea. Macula gonorrhoica is often observed as a distinctive visual clue in the diagnosis of gonorrhea, especially when other symptoms might be absent or less pronounced. However, it is important to note that the presence of macula gonorrhoica alone may not be sufficient to confirm a gonorrhea infection since other conditions may cause similar skin manifestations.
Early detection and treatment of gonorrhea, including the removal of macula gonorrhoica, are crucial to prevent further spread of the infection and potential complications. Prompt diagnosis through laboratory testing and subsequent treatment with appropriate antibiotics is typically recommended to manage gonorrhea effectively. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of this sexually transmitted infection.
A spot of brighter red than the surrounding membrane, the congested lips of the duct of Bartholins gland, sometimes seen in gonorrhea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term macula gonorrhoica is a Latin medical term used to describe a symptom of the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea, which causes a rash or discoloration on the skin.
The word macula in Latin means spot or stain, and gonorrhoica is derived from the Greek word gonorrhoia, which is a combination of gonos meaning seed and rhein meaning to flow. This reflects the discharge characteristic of gonorrhea.
Therefore, the etymology of macula gonorrhoica can be broken down as macula from Latin meaning spot, and gonorrhoica derived from Greek meaning gonorrhea discharge.