RODENT ULCER Meaning and
Definition
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Rodent ulcer, also known as basal cell carcinoma, is a type of skin cancer that affects the basal cells located in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. It typically occurs on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun for long periods, such as the face, neck, and arms. The term "rodent ulcer" is derived from the appearance of the lesion, which often forms a central ulcer and has raised, rolled edges.
This type of skin cancer usually starts as a small, shiny bump that may have a pearly or translucent appearance. Over time, the bump can enlarge and develop into a red, scaly patch. It may occasionally bleed or form a crust, which can easily break off and reform. Rodent ulcers typically grow slowly and are usually painless, which can contribute to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
The primary cause of rodent ulcers is prolonged exposure to sunlight, especially ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Other risk factors include fair skin, a history of blistering sunburns, a weakened immune system, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, and a family history of skin cancer.
Treatment for rodent ulcers usually involves surgical removal of the cancerous lesion. Depending on the size, depth, and location of the ulcer, the procedure may range from a simple excision to a more extensive surgery, such as Mohs micrographic surgery. Other treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing the lesion), radiation therapy, topical medications, and targeted therapy drugs. Regular follow-up exams are recommended to monitor for recurrence and spot any new lesions.
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• A superficial ulcerating epithelioma of relatively slight malignancy, situated usually on the face, ulcus exedens, ulcus rodens.
• Ulcus exedens, noli me tangere, Jacob's ulcer; a superficial erosion due to the breaking down of a cutaneous epithelioma of slight depth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for RODENT ULCER
- eodent ulcer
- dodent ulcer
- fodent ulcer
- todent ulcer
- 5odent ulcer
- 4odent ulcer
- rident ulcer
- rkdent ulcer
- rldent ulcer
- rpdent ulcer
- r0dent ulcer
- r9dent ulcer
- rosent ulcer
- roxent ulcer
- rocent ulcer
- rofent ulcer
- rorent ulcer
- roeent ulcer
- rodwnt ulcer
- rodsnt ulcer
Etymology of RODENT ULCER
The term "Rodent ulcer" is a historical medical term that dates back to the 19th century. It is a misnomer, as it doesn't actually refer to an ulcer caused by rodents. Instead, it was used to describe a specific type of skin cancer known as basal cell carcinoma.
The word "rodent" in this context is derived from the Latin word "rodens", which means "gnawing". This term was used because basal cell carcinomas tend to slowly grow and erode the surrounding tissues, giving the appearance of something that has been gnawed away.
Meanwhile, the term "ulcer" refers to the open sore or lesion that is characteristic of basal cell carcinomas. It comes from the Latin word "ulcus", meaning "sore" or "wound".
It is worth noting that the term "Rodent ulcer" is now considered outdated and not commonly used in modern medical terminology.
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