TEPHROMALACIA Meaning and
Definition
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Tephromalacia is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by softening or degeneration of the lung tissue due to inhalation or exposure to volcanic ash and other airborne particulate matter. The term is derived from the Greek words "tephra," meaning ash, and "malakia," meaning softening.
When a person breathes in volcanic ash, tiny and abrasive particles can damage the respiratory system, including the lungs. Tephromalacia refers specifically to the condition where the lung tissue becomes softened or weakened as a result of this exposure. The severity of tephromalacia can vary, ranging from mild inflammation and irritation to more severe lung damage.
Symptoms of tephromalacia may include coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the condition may lead to respiratory distress or even respiratory failure, requiring immediate medical attention.
The treatment for tephromalacia typically involves removing the individual from the source of volcanic ash or airborne particulate matter. Supportive care, such as oxygen therapy and bronchodilators, may be provided to relieve symptoms and improve lung function. In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
Prevention of tephromalacia involves avoiding areas with volcanic activity or wearing respiratory masks when such exposure is inevitable. Regular monitoring of air quality in volcanic regions is crucial to reduce the risk of tephromalacia and promote the health and well-being of individuals residing or working in these areas.
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Softening of the gray matter of the brain or spinal cord.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TEPHROMALACIA
- rephromalacia
- gephromalacia
- yephromalacia
- 6ephromalacia
- 5ephromalacia
- twphromalacia
- tsphromalacia
- tdphromalacia
- trphromalacia
- t4phromalacia
- t3phromalacia
- teohromalacia
- telhromalacia
- te-hromalacia
- te0hromalacia
- tepgromalacia
- tepbromalacia
- tepnromalacia
- tepjromalacia
- tepuromalacia
Etymology of TEPHROMALACIA
The word "tephromalacia" is derived from two Greek roots:
1. "Tephra" (τέφρα): meaning "ashes". This term is commonly used in geology to refer to volcanic materials that are ejected during an eruption and fall to the ground as ash and other small particles.
2. "Malakia" (μαλακία): meaning "softness" or "weakness". It is a general term used to describe a state of being soft, weak, or flaccid.
Combining these two roots, "tephromalacia" is a medical term used to describe a condition where the soft tissues or organs of the body are affected by inhalation or exposure to volcanic ash or similar materials.
