Uricolysis (/jʊəˈrɪkəlaɪsɪs/) is a medical term used to describe the process of breaking down uric acid within the body. The initial "u" in the word is pronounced as /jʊə/ due to the phonetic principles of English language. The following syllables are pronounced as /ˈrɪkə/ and /laɪsɪs/, respectively. The spelling of "uricolysis" is derived from the Latin "uricus" meaning pertaining to urine and "lysis" meaning breakdown. Overall, the term describes a crucial biochemical process that helps maintain a healthy balance of uric acid within the body.
Uricolysis is a medical term that refers to the process or treatment of dissolving or breaking down uric acid crystals in the body. Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, which occurs when the body breaks down substances such as certain foods and cells. Normally, uric acid is excreted through the kidneys and eliminated from the body via urine. However, in some cases, the levels of uric acid can become abnormally high, leading to the formation of sharp crystals. These crystals can accumulate in joints, tissues, and organs, causing a condition known as gout.
Uricolysis aims to alleviate the symptoms and complications associated with excess uric acid by promoting the dissolution or disintegration of urate crystals. This process can involve various approaches such as medication, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. Medications commonly used in uricolysis include uricosuric agents, which increase the excretion of uric acid through the urine, and xanthine oxidase inhibitors, which reduce the production of uric acid in the body.
Dietary changes for uricolysis often focus on avoiding purine-rich foods, such as red meat, shellfish, and alcoholic beverages, as these can contribute to elevated levels of uric acid. Increasing fluid intake and maintaining a healthy weight are also important in managing uric acid levels. By effectively promoting uricolysis, healthcare providers aim to decrease the frequency and severity of gout attacks, prevent the development of tophi (nodules of urate crystals), and minimize the risk of long-term complications, such as joint damage and kidney stones.
Decomposition of uric acid into urea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "uricolysis" is derived from Greek roots. The root "urico" comes from "ouron", meaning urine, and the suffix "-lysis" is derived from "lysis", meaning loosening or dissolution. Therefore, "uricolysis" refers to the process of loosening or dissolving uric acid.