Prostatic calculus is a medical condition where a calcified mass forms in the prostate gland. The pronunciation of this word can be broken down into three parts: /prɒˈstætɪk/ (pro-static), /ˈkælkjʊləs/ (calculus), and a silent "i" between the two (/prəʊˈstætɪk/). The first part refers to the prostate, a gland found only in males that is involved in the production of semen. The second part, calculus, represents the stone-like mass that forms. Overall, the spelling of prostatic calculus can seem complicated, but breaking it down using IPA makes it easier to understand.
Prostatic calculus is a medical term that refers to the presence of a stone or a calcified deposit within the prostate gland. The prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland found in men that surrounds the urethra and plays a crucial role in the production of semen. Prostatic calculi can vary in size and may be composed of different materials such as calcium, phosphate, or a combination of both.
These calculi typically form as a result of the accumulation of minerals, bacteria, and debris within the prostatic ducts. The exact cause of their formation is not fully understood, but factors such as chronic inflammation, prostate infections, and urinary stasis may contribute to their development.
Symptoms of prostatic calculi may vary depending on the size, location, and number of stones present. Common symptoms include pain or discomfort in the pelvic region, difficulty or pain during urination, frequent urination, blood in the urine, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Diagnosis of prostatic calculi is often made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging techniques such as transrectal ultrasound. Treatment options for prostatic calculi depend on the severity of symptoms and may include medications to manage pain and inflammation, antibiotics to treat any associated infections, or in some cases, surgical removal of the stones.
In conclusion, prostatic calculus is the presence of a stone or calcified deposit within the prostate gland. It can cause various symptoms and may require medical intervention depending on the severity of the condition.
One formed in the prostate, usually phosphatic.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "prostatic calculus" consists of two main components: "prostatic" and "calculus".
The adjective "prostatic" refers to the prostate, an accessory gland of the male reproductive system. The word "prostatic" is derived from the Latin word "prostata", which means the female prostate gland. The term "prostata" was initially used by anatomist Nicolaus Massa in the 16th century to describe this gland in women, but later it was applied exclusively to the similar gland in men.
The noun "calculus" has its origins in Latin as well. It comes from the Latin word "calculi", which means "pebble" or "stone". The term "calculus" was originally used to describe small stones found in the urinary system, which were hard and formed by the crystallization of various substances.