How Do You Spell PHTHIRIASIS?

Pronunciation: [fθˈɪɹɪˌasiz] (IPA)

Phthiriasis is a medical term referring to an infestation of lice. The spelling of this word can be attributed to the presence of two consecutive consonants, "th" and "r," which is a common occurrence in Greek-derived medical terms. The correct pronunciation of Phthiriasis is fthi-ˈrī-ə-səs, with the "ph" sound becoming an "f" sound, and the "th" and "r" sounds blending together into one consonant. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to accurately represent the sounds of this complicated word.

PHTHIRIASIS Meaning and Definition

1. Phthiriasis is a medical condition characterized by the infestation of body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis), a type of parasitic insect that feeds on human blood. It is specifically caused by the presence of the body louse, which lays eggs (nits) in clothing or bedding, and the lice eventually migrate to the skin to feed. Phthiriasis most commonly affects individuals living in unsanitary conditions with inadequate hygiene practices, or those with poor access to clean water and sanitary facilities.

   Symptoms of phthiriasis typically include intense itching, redness, and inflammation of the affected areas, with small, reddish-brown spots or bite marks visible on the skin. The infestation primarily occurs in areas of the body where the lice can feed, such as the groin, armpits, and other hairy regions. Scratching the affected areas may also lead to skin infections or secondary infections.

   Treatment of phthiriasis involves the primary goal of eliminating the lice and their eggs from the affected person and their environment. This is usually achieved through the use of topical insecticides or medicated creams that effectively kill the lice. Additionally, thorough cleaning and washing of all clothing, bedding, and personal items is crucial to prevent re-infestation.

   Preventing phthiriasis involves maintaining good personal hygiene, particularly regular bathing and wearing clean clothes. It is also important to avoid sharing personal items like clothing, bedding, or towels with infested individuals to prevent the spread of lice.

2. Pediculosis, lousiness.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. A disease in which lice are bred in and infest the body; cutaneous vermination.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PHTHIRIASIS

• phthiriasjis

Etymology of PHTHIRIASIS

The word "Phthiriasis" is derived from the Greek word "phtheiriasis" (φθειρίασις), which means "infestation with lice". It is formed by combining the word "phthir" (φθείρ), meaning "louse", and the suffix "-iasis", which denotes a condition or state of being.

Plural form of PHTHIRIASIS is PHTHIRIASES