The spelling of the medical term "stercoral fistula" may seem complex, but it's actually quite straightforward when using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced /stɜːrkɒrəl ˈfɪstjʊlə/ and is derived from the Latin word "stercus" meaning "excrement" and "fistula" meaning "a tunnel-like channel." Therefore, a stercoral fistula is a medical condition that involves the formation of an abnormal passageway between the colon or rectum and the skin or other organs, resulting in the leakage of feces.
Stercoral fistula is a medical term used to describe an abnormal connection or passageway that forms between the large intestine or rectum and the skin surface or another organ, allowing the passage of fecal matter to discharge through it. The term "stercoral" refers to feces or waste material, while "fistula" refers to an abnormal tube-like connection or tract.
A stercoral fistula typically occurs as a complication of longstanding or severe constipation, where a large mass of hardened stool, known as a fecal impaction, forms in the colon. Over time, the pressure and irritation caused by the impacted stool may lead to the formation of a channel that connects the colon or rectum to the outside world or other organs within the body.
Common symptoms of stercoral fistula include the presence of fecal material or pus draining from the affected area, foul-smelling discharge, pain or discomfort in the involved region, and sometimes the development of infections or abscesses. Diagnosis of stercoral fistula is typically made through physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), or colonoscopy.
Treatment for stercoral fistula usually involves a combination of medical management and surgery. The primary goal is to address any underlying issues, such as relieving fecal impaction and improving bowel movements, to prevent further formation or recurrence of fistulas. Surgery may be required to remove any dead tissue or abscesses, repair or close the fistula, and resolve associated complications.
In summary, stercoral fistula is an abnormal communication or passage that allows feces to exit through an unintended pathway due to chronic constipation. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent complications and restore normal
Fecal f.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "stercoral fistula" is derived from Latin.
- "Stercoral" comes from the Latin word "stercus" meaning "dung" or "feces". It is often used in medical terminology to refer to conditions related to feces.
- "Fistula" is also from Latin, derived from the word "fistula" meaning "pipe" or "tube". It is used to describe an abnormal connection or passageway between two organs or a body cavity and the skin.
Therefore, "stercoral fistula" literally means a fistula or abnormal passageway that involves feces, suggesting a connection between the intestines or colon and the skin.