PHARYNGOSCLEROMA Meaning and
Definition
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Pharyngoscleroma is a medical term used to describe a rare, chronic infectious disease that affects the pharynx, or the upper part of the throat. It specifically refers to the formation of dense, fibrous nodules or granulomas in the pharynx and nearby tissues. These nodules are composed of inflamed and hardened connective tissue, and they can cause gradual narrowing of the pharynx, leading to symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing, hoarseness, and nasal congestion.
The condition is primarily caused by the bacterium Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis, which is transmitted through direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected individuals. It is more common in certain regions of the world, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Risk factors for acquiring pharyngoscleroma include malnutrition, poor hygiene, and overcrowded living conditions.
Diagnosis of pharyngoscleroma typically involves a thorough examination of the throat and nose, as well as the use of imaging techniques like X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans to visualize the affected tissues. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotic therapy, aimed at eradicating the bacterium, and surgery to remove the fibrous nodules and restore the proper functioning of the pharynx.
If left untreated, pharyngoscleroma can progress and compromise the airway, leading to severe respiratory complications. Therefore, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing this condition effectively. Regular follow-up care is also necessary to monitor the patient's condition and prevent relapses.
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A scleroma, or indurated patch in the mucous membrane of the pharynx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PHARYNGOSCLEROMA
Etymology of PHARYNGOSCLEROMA
The word "pharyngoscleroma" is derived from two main components: "pharyngo-" and "scleroma".
1. "Pharyngo-" is a combining form that refers to the pharynx, which is the part of the throat that connects the nasal cavity and mouth to the esophagus and larynx.
2. "Scleroma" comes from the Greek word "sklērōma" (σκλήρωμα), which means "hardness" or "induration". It is derived from the Greek verb "sklēroō" (σκληρόω), meaning "to harden".
Combining these two components, "pharyngoscleroma" refers to a condition characterized by the hardening or induration of the tissues in the pharynx, often caused by a chronic infectious disease.
