MILIARY ABSCESS Meaning and
Definition
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A miliary abscess refers to a localized collection of pus or an infective material, characterized by a small, multiple, and widely scattered formation of abscesses within an organ or body part. Typically caused by a bacterial infection, a miliary abscess can arise in various organs, such as the liver, lungs, brain, or spleen.
The term "miliary" is indicative of the distribution pattern of these small abscesses, resembling a millet seed, as they are tiny and scattered throughout the affected area. These abscesses are encapsulated cavities formed as a result of an immune response to the presence of microorganisms, which the body tries to isolate and contain.
The development of a miliary abscess is often associated with a systemic or disseminated infection. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system from an initial infection site, spreading throughout the body and leading to the formation of multiple abscesses. Symptoms of miliary abscess can vary based on the organ affected, but commonly include fever, chills, sweats, fatigue, and localized pain.
Diagnosis of miliary abscess usually involves a combination of physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) scans or ultrasounds. Treatment typically involves the administration of antibiotics tailored to target the specific bacteria causing the infection, alongside drainage or surgical removal of the abscesses if necessary.
If left untreated, miliary abscesses can result in severe complications, including organ dysfunction or failure. Therefore, early diagnosis and prompt medical intervention are crucial for successful management of this condition.
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One of a number of minute collections of pus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MILIARY ABSCESS
- miliary abscers
- miliary absces3
- miliary abscesc
- miliary abscesq
- miliary abscesr
- m iliary abscess
- mi liary abscess
- mil iary abscess
- mili ary abscess
- milia ry abscess
- miliar y abscess
- miliary a bscess
- miliary ab scess
- miliary abs cess
- miliary absc ess
- miliary absce ss
- miliary absces s
Etymology of MILIARY ABSCESS
The word "miliary abscess" comes from combining two terms: "miliary" and "abscess".
1. The term "miliary" originated from the Latin word "miliāris", meaning "of millet". This term was used to describe small, seed-like structures since millet seeds are tiny. Over time, the word became associated with the appearance of small, closely grouped lesions or nodules, similar to the size of millet seeds.
2. The word "abscess" has its roots in the Latin term "abscessus", which means "a going away, departure" or "a gathering of humors or pus". In medical terminology, an abscess refers to a localized collection of pus caused by inflammation or infection.
Therefore, when combined, "miliary abscess" refers to numerous small abscesses or localized collections of pus that are distributed closely together.
