MALACOPLAKIA Meaning and
Definition
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Malacoplakia is a rare chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the genitourinary tract, but can also affect other organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, or skin. It is characterized by the formation of soft, yellow or brown plaques or nodules in affected tissues. These plaques consist of immune cells called macrophages, which have abnormal features known as Michaelis–Gutmann bodies.
The exact cause of malacoplakia is not fully understood, but it is believed to be associated with a defect in the normal process of phagocytosis or ingestion of bacteria by macrophages. This defect leads to the accumulation of bacteria and eventual formation of Michaelis–Gutmann bodies. Risk factors for malacoplakia include immunosuppression, chronic infections, and certain medications.
Clinically, malacoplakia can present with nonspecific symptoms such as urinary tract infections, abdominal pain, or skin lesions. Diagnosis is confirmed through histopathological examination of affected tissues, which reveals the characteristic Michaelis–Gutmann bodies.
Treatment of malacoplakia typically involves the use of antibiotics, especially those effective against gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, managing underlying infections and improving the immune system function can help resolve the condition. In some cases, surgical excision of the plaques may be necessary.
Overall, malacoplakia is a rare condition characterized by the formation of abnormal plaques in various tissues. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to prevent complications and improve outcomes for affected individuals.
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The presence of soft fungoid patches in the mucous membrane of a hollow organ, as the stomach or the bladder.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MALACOPLAKIA
- nalacoplakia
- kalacoplakia
- jalacoplakia
- mzlacoplakia
- mslacoplakia
- mwlacoplakia
- mqlacoplakia
- makacoplakia
- mapacoplakia
- maoacoplakia
- malzcoplakia
- malscoplakia
- malwcoplakia
- malqcoplakia
- malaxoplakia
- malavoplakia
- malafoplakia
- maladoplakia
- malaciplakia
- malackplakia
Etymology of MALACOPLAKIA
The word "Malacoplakia" derives from the combination of two Greek words: "malakos" meaning soft, and "plakos" meaning plaque or patch. The term was coined by a German pathologist, Michaelis and Gutman, in 1902 to describe a rare inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of soft, yellowish plaques or patches within various organs of the body.
