PHTHISIOMANIA Meaning and
Definition
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Phthisiomania refers to a medical condition characterized by an obsessive and irrational desire to contract tuberculosis. It is derived from the Greek word "phthisis," which means consumption or wasting away, and the suffix "-mania," which denotes an excessive or uncontrollable preoccupation or obsession with a particular behavior or object.
Despite being a rarely encountered condition, phthisiomania can be classified as a form of monomania, a psychological disorder marked by an overwhelming fixation or obsession with a single specific idea or object. Individuals afflicted with phthisiomania typically experience a compulsive desire to contract tuberculosis, a contagious and potentially fatal respiratory disease caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, which primarily affects the lungs.
Throughout history, certain societal beliefs, especially during the Romantic period, have romanticized tuberculosis, associating it with artistic brilliance and heightened sensitivity. Such notions may have contributed to the emergence of phthisiomania, although its underlying causes remain largely unknown. The condition is considered extremely rare and is not recognized by mainstream psychiatric manuals.
Phthisiomania's impact on affected individuals can be significant, leading to desperate attempts to expose themselves to conditions or environments where tuberculosis is more prevalent. Such behavior may involve seeking out sanatoriums, interacting with infected individuals, or even deliberately exposing themselves to the bacteria. However, these attempts are not only dangerous and potentially life-threatening but also raise serious ethical concerns regarding self-harm and the transmission of a highly contagious disease.
In conclusion, phthisiomania is a psychological condition characterized by an irrational and obsessive desire to contract tuberculosis. While a relatively uncommon condition, it poses significant risks and challenges to the affected individuals and society due to its potential to promote self-harm and the spread of infectious diseases.
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A fixed but unfounded belief that one is suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis; tuberculomania.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PHTHISIOMANIA
- phthisiomanaa
- phthisiomanma
- phthisiomanha
- phthisiomanii
- phthisiomanie
- phthisiomanic
- phthighsiomania
- ph thisiomania
- pht hisiomania
- phth isiomania
- phthi siomania
- phthis iomania
- phthisi omania
- phthisio mania
- phthisiom ania
- phthisioma nia
- phthisioman ia
- phthisiomani a
Etymology of PHTHISIOMANIA
The word "phthisiomania" is derived from two Greek terms: "phthisis" and "mania".
"Phthisis" (φθίσις) is a Greek word that means "wasting away" or "consumption". It is commonly associated with tuberculosis, a disease characterized by the gradual wasting away of the body.
"Mania" (μανία) is another Greek word, which refers to an intense enthusiasm or obsession for something.
Therefore, "phthisiomania" combines these two elements to signify an excessive or obsessive enthusiasm for or interest in tuberculosis or consumptive diseases.
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