PROCTOCOLITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Proctocolitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the rectum and the colon, which are two parts of the large intestine. More specifically, proctocolitis refers to the inflammation that affects both the rectum and the sigmoid colon, which is the S-shaped part of the colon located just above the rectum.
The inflammation in proctocolitis can occur due to various factors, such as infections, autoimmune diseases (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease), or exposure to certain medications or toxins. The condition can lead to symptoms including diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, urgency to have bowel movements, and an increased frequency of defecation. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause and the individual.
The diagnosis of proctocolitis involves a thorough medical history review, physical examination, laboratory tests, and possibly imaging studies or endoscopic procedures such as a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. Treatment for proctocolitis typically depends on the underlying cause and may involve medications to address the inflammation, control symptoms, and target the specific cause if known. In some cases, dietary modifications or lifestyle changes may also be recommended.
It is important to seek prompt medical attention if experiencing symptoms of proctocolitis, as timely diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.
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Inflammation of the rectum and a certain extent of the colon.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PROCTOCOLITIS
- oroctocolitis
- lroctocolitis
- -roctocolitis
- 0roctocolitis
- peoctocolitis
- pdoctocolitis
- pfoctocolitis
- ptoctocolitis
- p5octocolitis
- p4octocolitis
- prictocolitis
- prkctocolitis
- prlctocolitis
- prpctocolitis
- pr0ctocolitis
- pr9ctocolitis
- proxtocolitis
- provtocolitis
- proftocolitis
- prodtocolitis
Etymology of PROCTOCOLITIS
The word "proctocolitis" is derived from two parts: "procto-" and "-colitis".
The prefix "procto-" comes from the Greek word "proktos", which means "anus" or "rectum". It is commonly used as a combining form to indicate that something is related to the rectum or anus.
The suffix "-colitis" originates from the Greek word "kolon", which means "colon" or "large intestine", and the suffix "-itis", meaning "inflammation" or "inflammatory condition". "-Colitis" is commonly used to refer to inflammation of the colon or large intestine.
Therefore, when combined, "proctocolitis" refers to inflammation of both the rectum and colon, commonly used as a medical term.
