Parasitic stomatitis refers to an inflammation of the mouth caused by parasites. The word "parasitic" is pronounced /ˌpærəˈsɪtɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. "Stomatitis" is pronounced /stɒməˈtaɪtɪs/, with the stress on the third syllable. The word is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k" because it is derived from the Greek word "stoma," meaning "mouth." The "c" spelling is more commonly used in medical terminology. Proper spelling is important in the medical field to ensure clear communication and accurate treatment.
Parasitic stomatitis, also known as pestiferous stomatitis or parasitic glossitis, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the mouth due to the presence of parasites. It is a condition primarily seen in animals, particularly domestic pets such as cats and dogs.
Parasitic stomatitis typically occurs when external parasites, such as fleas or ticks, infest the oral cavity and cause damage to the soft tissues, leading to inflammation and infection. The parasites may feed on blood or tissue, leading to further irritation and discomfort for the affected animal. This condition is often accompanied by a range of symptoms, including bad breath, excessive drooling, oral pain, difficulty eating or swallowing, and the presence of sores or lesions in the mouth.
In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, leading to more serious health complications. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the condition from worsening and causing long-term damage to the oral tissues.
Treatment options for parasitic stomatitis involve addressing the underlying parasite infestation through the use of antiparasitic medications, such as topical or oral insecticides. Additionally, supportive care may be provided to manage symptoms, including pain relief, oral hygiene measures, and dietary adjustments.
While parasitic stomatitis is primarily seen in animals, it is important to note that humans can also develop similar conditions if they are exposed to certain parasites that infest the mouth.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "parasitic stomatitis" can be broken down into two parts - "parasitic" and "stomatitis".
The word "parasitic" comes from the Greek word "parasitos", which means "one who eats at another's table" or "a guest". In a medical context, it refers to an organism that lives on or within another organism (the host) and derives nourishment from it, often causing harm to the host.
The word "stomatitis" also has Greek origins. It is derived from "stoma", meaning "mouth", and "-itis", which is a suffix used to denote inflammation. Therefore, "stomatitis" refers to inflammation or irritation of the mouth.
Combining these two terms, "parasitic stomatitis" refers to an inflammation or irritation of the mouth caused by parasitic organisms.