Subcutaneous dropsy is a medical condition that refers to the accumulation of fluid in the tissues beneath the skin. The word "subcutaneous" is spelled /sʌbkjuːˈteɪniəs/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable. The "c" and "t" sounds are pronounced separately, followed by a "u" sound, as in "put". Dropsy is pronounced /ˈdrɒpsi/ in IPA, with the stress on the first syllable. The "o" sound is followed by a "p" sound, as in "pop", and the "y" sound is pronounced as in "sky".
Subcutaneous dropsy, also known as subcutaneous edema, is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the subcutaneous tissues. The term "subcutaneous" refers to the layer of tissue beneath the skin, while "dropsy" is an archaic term for edema or swelling caused by fluid retention.
In subcutaneous dropsy, an abnormal amount of fluid collects in the subcutaneous tissue due to various underlying causes. These may include heart failure, kidney disease, liver dysfunction, malnutrition, certain medications, or infections. The excess fluid buildup typically leads to swelling, often in the extremities such as the arms, legs, hands, or feet, although it can occur in other areas as well.
The symptoms of subcutaneous dropsy can vary depending on its severity and the underlying cause. Common signs include puffy or swollen skin, a feeling of tightness in the affected area, pale or shiny skin, and possibly pain or discomfort.
Diagnosis of subcutaneous dropsy usually involves a physical examination, medical history review, and various diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or MRI), or a biopsy of the affected tissue.
Treatment options for subcutaneous dropsy aim to address the underlying cause while also managing the fluid retention. This might involve prescribing medications to improve heart or organ function, diuretics to increase urine production and fluid removal, dietary changes, compression garments, or in severe cases, drainage of the excess fluid through a needle or catheter.
Overall, early diagnosis and treatment of subcutaneous dropsy are important to prevent potential complications and improve the patient's quality of life. Consulting a healthcare professional is vital for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
Anasarca, edema.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "subcutaneous dropsy" is a technical medical term used to describe the accumulation of fluid in the subcutaneous tissues, resulting in swelling or edema.
The word "subcutaneous" is derived from Latin, where "sub" means "under" and "cutis" means "skin". Thus, "subcutaneous" literally translates to "under the skin". The term is used to describe something that is situated, occurring, or administered beneath the skin.
The word "dropsy" comes from the Greek term "hydrops", which means "water". Historically, "dropsy" was used to refer to generalized swelling or edema caused by the accumulation of excess fluids in various parts of the body.
Combining these two terms, "subcutaneous dropsy" refers specifically to the accumulation of fluid under the skin, resulting in localized swelling or edema.