PATHOGNOMONIC Meaning and
Definition
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Pathognomonic is an adjective that describes a sign or symptom that is characteristic and conclusive of a particular disease or condition. The term is commonly used in medical and diagnostic contexts.
A pathognomonic sign is highly specific and unique to a particular disease or condition, enabling medical professionals to easily identify and diagnose the underlying issue. It is the hallmark or identifying feature that helps to distinguish one disease from another. Pathognomonic signs are typically reliable indicators, as they are rarely found in other diseases. However, it is important to understand that not all diseases or conditions possess pathognomonic signs, and sometimes a combination of signs and symptoms must be considered in order to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Furthermore, pathognomonic can also apply to certain tests or results that are indicative of a particular disease or condition. For example, if a specific blood test detects the presence of a unique antibody that is only associated with a particular disease, it would be considered a pathognomonic finding.
The term "pathognomonic" is derived from the Greek words "pathos" meaning "disease" and "gnomon" meaning "indicator" or "judge". In essence, it represents a significant clue that helps clinicians recognize and identify the root cause of a medical condition.
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Characteristic or indicative of a disease, noting certain typical symptoms.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Designating that which is inseparable from a disease; distinctive.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PATHOGNOMONIC
- oathognomonic
- lathognomonic
- -athognomonic
- 0athognomonic
- pzthognomonic
- psthognomonic
- pwthognomonic
- pqthognomonic
- parhognomonic
- pafhognomonic
- paghognomonic
- payhognomonic
- pa6hognomonic
- pa5hognomonic
- patgognomonic
- patbognomonic
- patnognomonic
- patjognomonic
- patuognomonic
- patyognomonic
Etymology of PATHOGNOMONIC
The word "pathognomonic" is derived from two Greek roots.
1. "Patho" comes from the Greek word "pathos", which means "suffering" or "disease".
2. "Gnomonic" is derived from the Greek word "gnomon", which means "indicator" or "judge".
When these roots are combined, "pathognomonic" literally translates to "a judge or indicator of disease". It is commonly used in medicine to describe a sign or symptom that is so characteristic of a particular disease or condition that it can be used to make a definitive diagnosis.
