How Do You Spell TABES DIABETICA?

Pronunciation: [tˈe͡ɪbz dˌa͡ɪəbˈɛtɪkə] (IPA)

Tabes Diabetica is a term used to describe a complication of diabetes that affects the nervous system. The term is pronounced /ˈteɪbiːz/ /ˌdaɪəˈbɛtɪkə/, with the stress on the first syllable of "tabes" and the second syllable of "diabetica". The first word is derived from the Latin word "tabes", meaning wasting or decay, while the second word is derived from "diabetes", which means passing through. This spelling of the term is standard and recognized internationally, allowing for proper communication among medical professionals regarding the condition.

TABES DIABETICA Meaning and Definition

1. Tabes diabetica is a medical term used to describe a late-stage complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by degeneration of the nerves throughout the body. It is also known as diabetic ataxia or diabetic neurotrophic arthropathy.

   Tabes diabetica primarily affects individuals with poorly controlled diabetes who have had the condition for a long time. It is a result of the damaging effects of high blood sugar levels on the peripheral nerves, particularly those responsible for the sensation of pain and touch. The condition typically presents with symptoms such as severe pain, loss of coordination, muscle weakness, and decreased sensitivity to temperature and touch.

   The degeneration of the peripheral nerves in tabes diabetica can lead to various complications. Common complications include foot ulcers, joint deformities, and Charcot joint (a condition where a joint becomes chronically swollen, deformed, and painful). Patients with advanced tabes diabetica may have difficulty walking, experience frequent falls, and have significant impairment of their quality of life.

   Treatment for tabes diabetica primarily focuses on tight glycemic control to prevent further nerve damage. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises may be recommended to help improve coordination, strength, and balance. Additionally, pain management strategies may involve medications that target nerve pain, such as certain antidepressants or antiepileptic drugs.

   In conclusion, tabes diabetica refers to the late-stage nerve degeneration and subsequent complications that arise in individuals with long-standing, poorly controlled diabetes. The condition is characterized by symptoms including pain, loss of coordination, muscle weakness, and sensory abnormalities. Early diagnosis and proper management of diabetes are vital in preventing the progression of tabes diabetica and its associated complications.

2. Diabetic neuritis, especially of the motor nerves of the lower extremities, marked by muscular atrophy and a steppage gait.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for TABES DIABETICA

• tabes diabetici
• tabes diabetice
• tabes diabeticc
• t abes diabetica
• ta bes diabetica
• tab es diabetica
• tabe s diabetica
• tabes d iabetica
• tabes di abetica
• tabes dia betica
• tabes diab etica
• tabes diabe tica
• tabes diabet ica
• tabes diabeti ca
• tabes diabetic a

Etymology of TABES DIABETICA

The term "tabes diabetica" is derived from two different sources:

1. "Tabes" comes from the Latin word "tabes", meaning "decay" or "wasting away". In medical terminology, it refers to a general wasting or wasting disease. It is often associated with tuberculosis, where it describes the progressive emaciation and weakness of the affected individual.

2. "Diabetica" is derived from the Greek word "diabetes", which means "to pass through" or "siphon". It was used to describe a condition characterized by excessive thirst and frequent urination, as it seemed that the body was passing fluid through it.

When combined, "tabes diabetica" refers to a wasting disease specifically associated with diabetes. It was used historically to describe the neurologic complications that can occur in individuals with long-standing diabetes, including nerve damage, muscle wasting, and weakness.