Synovitis sicca is a medical term used to describe a condition where inflammation occurs in the synovial fluid, which lubricates and protects joints. The spelling of synovitis sicca follows the rules of Latin pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˌsaɪnəvaitɪs ˈsɪkə/, where the stress is on the second syllable of synovitis and the first syllable of sicca. This condition can cause pain, swelling and stiffness, and can be treated by anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy.
Synovitis sicca is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and dryness of the synovial tissues within a joint. The term "synovitis" refers to the inflammation of the synovial membrane, which lines the joint capsule and produces synovial fluid, while "sicca" pertains to dryness or lack of moisture.
The synovial membrane is responsible for lubricating the joint and allowing smooth movements. In synovitis sicca, the synovial tissues become inflamed and irritated, leading to a reduction in the production of synovial fluid. This causes a decrease in the lubrication and nourishment of the joint structures, which can result in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Synovitis sicca can occur as a primary condition, often seen in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, or as a secondary condition driven by factors such as trauma, infection, or autoimmune disorders. Over time, the persistent inflammation may lead to the thickening of the synovial tissues and the formation of scar tissue within the joint, further limiting its function and causing additional discomfort.
Symptoms of synovitis sicca may vary depending on the underlying cause and the joint affected, but common signs include joint pain, swelling, warmth, and restricted movement. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, imaging tests, and sometimes a joint aspiration to analyze the synovial fluid.
Treatment for synovitis sicca aims to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and restore joint mobility. This may involve the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention to remove damaged tissues or address underlying conditions.
Dry s.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "synovitis sicca" is derived from two words: synovitis and sicca.
1. Synovitis: The word "synovitis" originates from the Greek words "syn" meaning "together" or "with" and "ovum" meaning "egg". It was first used in the medical field in the mid-18th century, referring to the inflammation of the synovial membrane, which is the lining of the joint capsules and tendon sheaths.
2. Sicca: The word "sicca" comes from the Latin word "siccus", meaning "dry" or "parched". It is typically used to describe conditions related to dryness, such as dry eyes (sicca syndrome) or dry skin (xerosis sicca).