Peliosis rheumatica is a medical condition that affects blood vessels and results in the formation of multiple blood-filled cavities in the organs or tissues. Its pronunciation is /pɛliˈoʊsɪs rɛuˈmætɪkə/, and the spelling of the word is derived from the Greek pelios meaning "livid" and rheumatikos meaning "relating to rheumatism," indicating the condition's association with the inflammation of the joints. The spelling of the word is challenging due to the diphthong "eo" and the combination of the consonants "s" and "t."
Peliosis rheumatica is a rare vascular disorder characterized by the formation of blood-filled cysts within the connective tissues of different organs, especially the liver and spleen. This condition primarily affects adults, with a higher incidence in males, and its exact cause is unknown.
The most commonly affected organ, the liver, displays multiple cysts that are often small in size and interconnected, leading to an enlargement of the affected organ. This can cause liver dysfunction, including abnormal liver function tests, jaundice, and in severe cases, liver failure. Involvement of the spleen can also lead to enlargement and may result in symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort.
While the majority of cases of peliosis rheumatica are asymptomatic, some individuals may experience non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, fever, or weight loss. The diagnosis of this condition is made through imaging studies, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan, which reveal the presence of cysts within the affected organs.
The treatment of peliosis rheumatica is primarily focused on managing the associated symptoms and complications, such as addressing liver dysfunction or managing pain. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if there is significant organ damage or risk of rupture. Long-term follow-up is important to monitor for any progression or potential complications of the condition.
The word "peliosis rheumatica" is a combination of two terms: "peliosis" and "rheumatica".
- "Peliosis" is derived from the Greek word "pelios", meaning "mottled", which refers to the characteristic appearance of affected tissue.
- "Rheumatica" is derived from the Greek word "rheumatikos", meaning "flowing with or discussing rheum". The term "rheum" refers to a watery discharge, often associated with inflammatory conditions. In this context, "rheumatica" refers to a condition involving inflammation, typically in the joints.
Therefore, "peliosis rheumatica" can be understood as a condition that involves mottled tissue appearance and inflammation in the joints.