"Phymatosis" is a medical term that refers to the abnormal growth and thickening of tissues or organs. The spelling of the word is derived from the Greek root, "phyma," meaning growth or tumor, and "-osis," meaning a medical condition or abnormal condition. The phonetic transcription of "phymatosis" is /faɪˈmætəʊsɪs/, with the stress on the second syllable. This spelling follows the standard English pronunciation and allows for clear communication among medical professionals discussing this condition.
Phymatosis is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the abnormal growth and thickening of certain tissues, commonly in the skin or organs. It typically refers to a localized and often disfiguring enlargement or hypertrophy of an affected area.
In dermatology, phymatosis primarily refers to a condition called rhinophyma, which is the excessive growth and swelling of the nose. This condition is often associated with severe cases of rosacea, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by facial redness and visible blood vessels. Rhinophyma is more common in males and can result in significant nasal distortion, including a bulbous or lobulated appearance. Treatment options for rhinophyma may include medications, laser therapy, or surgical procedures to reduce the excess tissue.
Additionally, phymatosis can refer to overgrowth or hypertrophy of other organs or tissues in the body, such as the breasts (gynecomastia) or the eyelids (blepharochalasis). These conditions may be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetic predispositions, or certain medical conditions.
Overall, phymatosis is used to describe abnormal tissue growth, particularly when it leads to physical changes or disfigurement. It is important for individuals experiencing any symptoms or concerns related to phymatosis to seek medical evaluation and appropriate treatment.
The growth or the presence of phymata or small nodules in the skin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "phymatosis" is derived from the Greek word "phyma" (φῦμα), which means "tumor" or "swelling", and the suffix "-osis", which indicates a pathological condition or process.