Perihepatitis is a medical term that refers to inflammation around the liver. The word is spelled "per-i-hep-a-ti-tis," with the stress on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /pɛrɪhɛpətaɪtɪs/. It is composed of three morphemes: peri-, meaning "around", hepato-, meaning "of the liver", and -itis, meaning "inflammation". The spelling of this word can be challenging due to its length and use of multiple vowels, but understanding its composition can make it easier to remember.
Perihepatitis, also known as Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome, is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the tissue surrounding the liver. The term "perihepatitis" is derived from the Greek words "peri," meaning around, and "hepar," meaning liver.
The condition is most commonly caused by a sexually transmitted infection called Chlamydia trachomatis, which typically spreads from the lower genital tract to the upper abdomen, affecting the liver capsule and the tissue around it. However, it can also be caused by other bacterial infections, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae or other gastrointestinal infections.
The main symptom of perihepatitis is a sharp or dull pain in the upper right abdomen, often radiating to the right shoulder. The pain can worsen with deep breaths, physical activity, or sexual intercourse. Other possible symptoms include fever, fatigue, and a swollen liver.
Diagnosis of perihepatitis is typically based on the patient's symptoms, physical examination findings, and medical history, along with laboratory tests to detect the underlying infection. Imaging techniques like ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be employed to visualize the inflammation and assess liver function.
Treatment of perihepatitis usually involves addressing the underlying infection with appropriate antibiotics. Pain medications can be prescribed to relieve the discomfort. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for intravenous antibiotic therapy and close monitoring of the patient's condition.
In conclusion, perihepatitis refers to the inflammation of the tissue surrounding the liver, often caused by bacterial infections such as Chlamydia trachomatis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and promote recovery.
Inflammation of the serous, or peritoneal, covering of the liver.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "perihepatitis" is derived from two roots: "peri-" and "hepatitis".
1. "Peri-" is a prefix in Greek meaning "around" or "surrounding". It is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate the area or tissue surrounding a specific organ.
2. "Hepatitis" is a term of Greek origin as well, which combines "hepar" meaning "liver" and "-itis" indicating inflammation or infection. It refers to inflammation of the liver.
Therefore, "perihepatitis" literally translates to "inflammation around the liver".