TROPICAL ABSCESS Meaning and
Definition
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Tropical abscess is a medical condition characterized by the formation of a localized collection of pus, typically within the soft tissues, in tropical regions. It is also known as an amoebic liver abscess or tropical liver abscess, as it often affects the liver in these regions.
Tropical abscess is predominantly caused by the amoeba parasite known as Entamoeba histolytica. This parasite is commonly found in contaminated water and food sources in tropical and subtropical areas, especially where sanitation is poor. Upon ingestion, the amoeba can invade the intestinal lining, causing a condition known as amoebic dysentery. However, in some cases, the parasite can reach the liver through the bloodstream, leading to the formation of abscesses within the liver parenchyma.
Symptoms of tropical abscess may include fever, abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, and an enlarged liver. The abscesses can gradually grow in size and may rupture, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
The diagnosis of tropical abscess often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or computed tomography), and serological tests to detect the presence of Entamoeba histolytica antibodies in the blood.
Treatment for tropical abscess typically involves a combination of antibiotic therapy, such as metronidazole or tinidazole, to eliminate the parasite, and drainage of the abscess through percutaneous aspiration or, in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Overall, early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in managing tropical abscess to prevent its potential complications and ensure a successful recovery.
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Amebic a., a. of the liver associated with amebic dysentery, occurring chiefly in Europeans long resident in hot countries.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TROPICAL ABSCESS
Etymology of TROPICAL ABSCESS
The word "tropical abscess" can be broken down into two parts: "tropical" and "abscess".
1. "Tropical": The term "tropical" refers to something relating to or characteristic of the tropics, which are the regions of the Earth surrounding the equator. The word "tropical" originated from the Late Latin word "tropicus", which itself came from the Greek word "tropikos", meaning "pertaining to a turn" or "turning". This is because the Sun appears to "turn back" from its northernmost and southernmost positions during the solstices, creating the tropics.
2. "Abscess": The word "abscess" comes from the Latin word "abscessus", which means "a going away" or "a gathering of humors".
