PARENCHYMATOUS NEPHRITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Parenchymatous nephritis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation and progressive damage of the renal parenchyma, which is the functional tissue of the kidney responsible for filtration and urine production. Also known as glomerulo-nephritis or glomerular nephritis, this condition primarily affects the small blood vessels (glomeruli) in the kidney's nephrons.
In parenchymatous nephritis, the delicate structures within the glomeruli become inflamed, leading to impaired kidney function and potential complications such as proteinuria (the presence of excessive protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), and decreased urine production. The inflammation in the renal parenchyma can also affect other components of the kidney, including the tubules (tubulo-nephritis) and interstitium (interstitial nephritis).
The causes of parenchymatous nephritis can vary, ranging from autoimmune disorders like systemic lupus erythematosus or certain infections to exposure to certain medications, toxins, or hereditary factors. Symptoms may include fluid retention, high blood pressure, fatigue, and overall decline in renal function.
Treatment for parenchymatous nephritis usually involves managing the underlying cause, providing supportive care to relieve symptoms, and addressing any potential complications. Medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression. In severe cases, dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary for individuals experiencing end-stage renal disease.
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Inflammation of the stroma of the kidneys; the chronic form constitutes what is called the large white kidney, see chronic n.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PARENCHYMATOUS NEPHRITIS
Etymology of PARENCHYMATOUS NEPHRITIS
The term "parenchymatous nephritis" can be broken down into two parts: "parenchymatous" and "nephritis".
1. Parenchymatous: This word originated from the Greek word "parenkhyma", which means "something poured in beside", referring to the tissue filling the interstices of an organ. It is derived from the combination of "para", meaning "beside", and "enkhyma", meaning "infusion".
2. Nephritis: This word is derived from the Greek word "nephros", which means "kidney". It is combined with the suffix "-itis", used to denote inflammation. Therefore, nephritis refers to inflammation of the kidneys.
Combining these two parts, "parenchymatous nephritis" refers to inflammation specifically affecting the renal parenchyma, which is the functional tissue of the kidney.
