Pyelonephrosis is a medical condition involving the kidney and the urinary system. It is pronounced as /paɪəloʊnɛˈfroʊsɪs/ and is spelled as follows: "pye" as in "pie", "lo" as in "low", "ne" as in "nephew", "phr" as in "phrase", "o" as in "go", and "sis" as in "sister". The IPA phonetic transcription of the word helps explain the pronunciation of individual sounds and their corresponding letters, aiding in accurate spelling and proper pronunciation. It is an important skill for medical professionals to have, as errors in spelling or pronunciation can hinder effective communication and treatment.
Pyelonephrosis is a medical condition characterized by the obstruction or blockage of the renal pelvis, which is the funnel-shaped area in the inner part of the kidney. This obstruction usually occurs as a result of urinary tract infection that ascends from the lower urinary tract, such as the bladder, to the upper urinary tract, which includes the kidneys.
The renal pelvis serves as a collection point for urine before it is transported to the bladder. When an obstruction occurs, urine backs up and accumulates in the kidneys, causing swelling and enlargement. This obstruction can lead to severe damage to the kidneys over time, as the urine-filled kidney tissues become distended and the normal flow of urine is disrupted.
Symptoms of pyelonephrosis often include severe pain in the side or back, accompanied by fever, chills, and frequent urination. Medical professionals typically diagnose the condition through imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or CT scans, which allow visualization of the kidneys and detection of any obstructions.
Treatment for pyelonephrosis usually involves addressing the underlying cause, most commonly through the administration of antibiotics to clear the infection and relieve the obstruction. In some cases, the blockage may require surgical intervention to restore normal urine flow and prevent recurrent infections or kidney damage.
If left untreated or inadequately managed, pyelonephrosis can lead to complications such as kidney failure, sepsis, or the formation of abscesses. Therefore, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for preventing further damage to the kidneys and ensuring optimal patient outcomes.
Any disease of the pelvis of the kidney.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pyelonephrosis" derives from Greek roots.
"Pyelo-" comes from the Greek word "pýelos", which means "pelvis" or "basin", referring specifically to the renal pelvis, which is the funnel-shaped part of the kidney where urine collects before moving to the ureter.
The second part, "-nephro-", is derived from the Greek word "nephros", meaning "kidney".
Lastly, the suffix "-osis" indicates a condition, illness, or abnormal state.
Combining all the elements, "pyelonephrosis" means the pathological condition of the kidney in which there is dilation and/or distension of the renal pelvis due to an obstruction or urinary reflux, which often results from a urinary tract infection.