METHACHOLINE Meaning and
Definition
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Methacholine is a synthetic compound that acts as a pharmacological agent used primarily in medical diagnostic procedures. It is classified as a bronchial challenge agent and is commonly employed in the evaluation and diagnosis of airway hyperresponsiveness, particularly in individuals suspected of having asthma.
When inhaled or administered via an aerosol device, methacholine causes the contraction of smooth muscle cells within the airways, leading to bronchoconstriction. This response is used as a diagnostic tool to assess the sensitivity and reactivity of the airways. By measuring the degree of bronchoconstriction following methacholine administration, healthcare professionals can determine the presence and severity of airway hyperresponsiveness.
The administration of methacholine is typically performed in a controlled clinical setting, under the supervision of trained personnel to closely monitor the patient's vital signs and prevent any potential adverse reactions. It is important to note that methacholine challenges should be avoided in patients with severe underlying respiratory conditions or known hypersensitivity to the compound.
In summary, methacholine is a synthetic substance utilized in medical practices for diagnostic purposes to evaluate airway hyperresponsiveness. Its ability to induce bronchoconstriction allows medical professionals to evaluate the sensitivity and reactivity of the airways, aiding in the diagnosis and assessment of conditions such as asthma.
Common Misspellings for METHACHOLINE
- nethacholine
- kethacholine
- jethacholine
- mwthacholine
- msthacholine
- mdthacholine
- mrthacholine
- m4thacholine
- m3thacholine
- merhacholine
- mefhacholine
- meghacholine
- meyhacholine
- me6hacholine
- me5hacholine
- metgacholine
- metbacholine
- metnacholine
- metjacholine
- methocholine
Etymology of METHACHOLINE
The word "methacholine" is derived from the combination of three components: "metha-", "cho-", and "line".
- "Metha-" is an abbreviation for "methyl", which refers to the presence of a methyl group (CH₃-) in the molecule. In organic chemistry, the term "methyl" is commonly used to indicate the substitution of one hydrogen atom in a hydrocarbon compound with a single carbon atom.
- "Cho-" is derived from "choline", which is a compound that belongs to the group of B-complex vitamins. In the context of "methacholine", "cho-" specifically refers to the presence of a choline group (-N(CH₃)₃⁺) in the molecule.
- "Line" is a suffix indicating that the word refers to a type of compound.
Similar spelling words for METHACHOLINE
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