"Ureterectasia" is a medical term used to describe the dilation or enlargement of the ureter - the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder. The term is spelled with the prefix "uretero-" (pronounced /jʊˈriːtərəʊ/), which refers to the ureter, and the suffix "-ectasia" (pronounced /ɛkˈteɪziə/), which means dilation or enlargement. The correct spelling and pronunciation of this word are important for medical professionals to communicate clearly and accurately about patients who have this condition.
Ureterectasia is a medical term used to describe the dilation or enlargement of the ureter, which is a muscular tube responsible for transporting urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This condition is typically associated with obstruction or the impaired flow of urine through the ureter.
Ureterectasia can occur due to a variety of reasons, including urinary stones (calculi), tumors, inflammation, or congenital abnormalities. When the normal flow of urine is interrupted, pressure builds up within the ureter, causing it to stretch and expand. As a result, the ureter may become wider and lose some of its normal muscular tone, leading to ureterectasia.
Common symptoms of ureterectasia may include flank pain, lower back pain, urinary tract infections, blood in the urine (hematuria), and frequent urination. In severe cases, the enlarged ureter may also compress nearby structures, causing further complications.
Diagnosis of ureterectasia often involves imaging studies, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or intravenous pyelogram (IVP), which help visualize the urinary tract and identify any dilation or blockages. Treatment for ureterectasia depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Conservative management may involve pain control, antibiotic therapy for infections, and lifestyle modifications. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the obstruction, repair the ureter, or create an alternate pathway for urine drainage.
Overall, ureterectasia is a condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement of the ureter, usually caused by obstruction or impaired urine flow. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent further complications and maintain proper urinary function.
Dilatation of an ureter.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ureterectasia" is derived from two Latin roots: "ureter" and "ectasia".
1. "Ureter" originates from the Latin word "uretra", which means "urethra". The term "ureter" specifically refers to the slender, tubular structure that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
2. "Ectasia" is derived from the Greek word "ektasis", meaning "a stretching or dilation". In medical terminology, "ectasia" denotes abnormal enlargement, dilation, or expansion of a tubular structure within the body.
When combined, "ureterectasia" refers to the abnormal dilation or enlargement of the ureter.