PARAPLEURITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Parapleuritis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the lining surrounding the lungs, called the pleura. The pleura consists of two layers, the visceral pleura which covers the lungs, and the parietal pleura which lines the chest wall and diaphragm. Parapleuritis specifically refers to inflammation that affects the parietal pleura.
The most common cause of parapleuritis is an infection, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis. In these cases, the bacteria or other microorganisms can spread to the pleural spaces, leading to inflammation. Other possible causes include connective tissue diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, certain medications, or trauma to the chest.
The inflammation in parapleuritis can cause symptoms such as chest pain, which is often sharp and worsens with deep breathing or coughing. The pain may be localized to one side of the chest or spread to the shoulder or back. Other symptoms can include difficulty breathing, coughing, fever, and in some cases, the presence of a pleural effusion, which is an excess of fluid within the pleural space.
Diagnosis of parapleuritis often involves a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans. Treatment generally includes addressing the underlying cause, such as treating the infection with antibiotics or managing the underlying condition. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, drainage of the pleural fluid may be necessary. Overall, the prognosis for parapleuritis depends on the underlying cause and prompt treatment.
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Inflammation of the thoracic wall.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PARAPLEURITIS
Etymology of PARAPLEURITIS
The word "parapleuritis" is a medical term that is derived from Greek and Latin roots.
The prefix "para-" in Greek means "beside" or "near", indicating that this condition affects something located near the pleura.
The term "pleura" is derived from the Latin word "pleura" meaning "rib" or "side". The pleura is a thin membrane that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs.
The suffix "-itis" comes from the Greek word "-itis" meaning "inflammation". It is commonly used to denote inflammation in medical terms.
Therefore, "parapleuritis" can be defined as an inflammation occurring near the pleura, typically referring to an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the pleura.
