Scarlatina anginosa is a medical term that refers to a type of scarlet fever characterized by throat infection. The proper spelling of this term is /skɑːrlətiːnə ˌændʒɪˈnoʊsə/, which can be broken down into its individual sounds using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). This spelling indicates the pronunciation of each phoneme or sound in the word. Scarlatina anginosa is a serious illness that requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications, so it is important to spell and pronounce it correctly.
Scarlatina anginosa, also known as scarlet fever, is a highly contagious bacterial infection primarily affecting children and characterized by a sore throat, high fever, and a distinct rash. It is caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria, specifically the strain known as Streptococcus pyogenes.
The condition typically begins with a sudden onset of symptoms, including a severe sore throat that may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing. This is often accompanied by a high fever, usually above 101°F (38.3°C). Other common symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, and swollen tonsils.
One of the hallmark features of scarlatina anginosa is the appearance of a characteristic rash. This rash usually starts on the chest and abdomen before spreading to other parts of the body. It presents as red or pink-colored, small, rough-textured dots that resemble a sunburn. Areas around the mouth, known as "circumoral pallor," may appear pale in contrast to the rash.
If left untreated, scarlatina anginosa can lead to complications such as ear infections, sinusitis, pneumonia, and kidney inflammation. Prompt medical attention and prescribed antibiotics such as penicillin are typically required to treat scarlatina anginosa effectively.
Preventing the spread of the infection involves practicing good hygiene, particularly handwashing, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
It is worth noting that scarlatina anginosa is a historically significant disease, as it was a major cause of childhood mortality in the past. However, with improved hygiene and the availability of effective antibiotics, the incidence and severity of scarlatina anginosa have significantly decreased in modern times.
Scarlet fever with severe inflammation of the fauces.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "scarlatina anginosa" has its roots in Latin and Greek.
- "Scarlatina" originated from the Latin word "scarlatinus", which means "scarlet". It refers to the characteristic bright red rash associated with scarlet fever.
- "Anginosa" comes from the Latin word "anginosus", which means "sore-throated" or "pertaining to angina". Angina typically refers to a condition causing pain or discomfort in the throat or chest.
- In Greek, "angina" (ἀγγίνειν) means "to choke", and "anginosis" (ἀγγινόσις) means "choke" or "suffocation".
Therefore, "scarlatina anginosa" describes a specific type of scarlet fever characterized by a sore throat or inflammation of the throat.