Pyemic is a medical term referring to a state of fever caused by pyemia or the presence of pus-forming bacteria in the bloodstream. The spelling of this word is derived from its Greek origin, with ‘py’ representing ‘pus’ and ‘emic’ meaning ‘of the blood’. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /paɪˈɛmɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. The term is seldom used nowadays due to advancements in medical science enabling early identification and treatment of such conditions.
Pyemic is an adjective used in medical terminology to describe a condition or process associated with the spread of bacterial infections through the bloodstream, leading to the formation of abscesses or pus-filled cavities in various organs or tissues of the body. The term derives from the merging of two words: "pyemia" and "ic."
Pyemia refers to a severe form of septicemia, which is the presence of pathogenic microorganisms, usually bacteria, in the bloodstream. It occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream through infection sites, such as wounds, surgical incisions, or inflammation in specific organs. The bacteria then multiply rapidly within the blood, leading to the formation of abscesses in multiple body sites.
The suffix "-ic" in pyemic denotes a condition or state. When added to the word pyemia, it gives rise to pyemic, indicating a condition characterized by the presence of pyemia.
The manifestations of pyemic infections vary depending on the organs involved and the bacteria responsible. Common symptoms of pyemic infections include fever, chills, generalized body pain, malaise, and, in severe cases, organ failure. Prompt medical intervention, typically antibiotics tailored to the specific bacteria causing the infection, is crucial in treating pyemic conditions.
In conclusion, pyemic is an adjective used to describe the presence of widespread bacterial infection in the bloodstream, leading to the formation of abscesses in various body sites. It is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Relating to or suffering from pyemia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word pyemic is derived from the medical term pyemia, which originated in the mid-19th century. Pyemia is a combination of two Greek roots: pyon, meaning pus, and haima, meaning blood. Therefore, pyemic essentially means relating to or characterized by the presence of pus in the blood.