SPHACELISM Meaning and
Definition
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Sphacelism is a term derived from the Greek word "sphakelos," meaning "gangrene" or "decay." The term refers to the process or condition of tissue necrosis or putrefaction, particularly in plants or other organisms. It is a pathological condition characterized by the death and decay of cells, tissues, or organs due to various factors such as infection, injury, or lack of proper nutrients. Sphacelism often manifests as a darkening or blackening of the affected area, accompanied by a foul odor.
In botany, sphacelism usually occurs as a result of fungal or bacterial infections, where the invading microorganisms release toxins that cause cellular death and subsequent decay. This can lead to the wilting, necrosis, or death of leaves, stems, fruits, or other plant parts. Sphacelism can spread rapidly within a plant and is often associated with the loss of vitality and decline in overall plant health.
In medical and veterinary contexts, the term is used less commonly but is still relevant in describing certain pathological conditions. It may refer to the necrotic decay of tissues caused by bacterial infection or the death of soft tissues resulting from reduced blood flow or compromised blood vessels. Sphacelism in animals or humans can be a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention, as it can lead to the formation of abscesses, systemic infections, or the need for surgical intervention.
Overall, sphacelism is a term used to describe the destructive process of tissue death and decay, which can occur in various organisms and under different circumstances.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPHACELISM
- aphacelism
- zphacelism
- xphacelism
- dphacelism
- ephacelism
- wphacelism
- sohacelism
- slhacelism
- s-hacelism
- s0hacelism
- spgacelism
- spbacelism
- spnacelism
- spjacelism
- spuacelism
- spyacelism
- sphzcelism
- sphscelism
- sphwcelism
- sphqcelism
Etymology of SPHACELISM
The word "sphacelism" can be traced back to the Greek word "sphakelismos" (σφακελισμός), which means "gangrene" or "mortification". It ultimately derives from the Greek word "sphakelos" (σφάκελος), meaning "gangrene". This Greek word has its origins in the verb "sphakellō" (σφάκελλω), which denotes the action of gnawing or consuming something slowly. In the medical context, "sphacelism" refers to the process of tissue necrosis or death due to inadequate blood supply or infection.
