NEPHROGENOUS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "nephrogenous" is an adjective that relates to or originates from the kidneys, specifically the renal system or the process of kidney function. The word is derived from the combination of the Latin root "nephr-" meaning kidney, and the suffix "-genous" meaning producing or originating from.
In the context of medical literature, "nephrogenous" often refers to conditions, substances, or factors that are directly related to kidney function. For instance, "nephrogenous diabetes insipidus" is a specific type of diabetes insipidus caused by the inability of the kidneys to concentrate urine due to a defect in the kidneys' response to the hormone vasopressin.
Additionally, the term "nephrogenous" can be used to describe substances produced by the kidneys, such as "nephrogenous sclerosing fibrosis," which refers to the abnormal formation of fibrous tissue in the kidneys.
In a broader sense, "nephrogenous" can also describe any processes, medications, or diagnostic techniques that involve or affect the kidneys, such as "nephrogenous hypertension," which refers to high blood pressure caused by kidney dysfunction.
Overall, "nephrogenous" is a versatile term used to describe anything related to the kidneys or their function, allowing for a more precise and specific understanding within the field of medicine and healthcare.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NEPHROGENOUS
Etymology of NEPHROGENOUS
The word nephrogenous is derived from two root words: nephro- and -genous.
- Nephro- comes from the Greek word nephros, which means kidney. This root is commonly used to form words relating to the kidneys, such as nephritis (inflammation of the kidney) or nephrology (the study of kidneys).
- -Genous is a suffix derived from the Greek word genos, meaning kind or origin. It is often used to indicate something that is generated or produced.
Therefore, nephrogenous combines these two root words to form a term that literally means kidney-generated or originating from the kidney.
