ADHESIVE PERICARDITIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Adhesive pericarditis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation and subsequent scarring of the pericardium, which is the double-layered membrane surrounding the heart. This condition typically occurs as a result of a previous episode of pericarditis, wherein the pericardium becomes inflamed due to a viral or bacterial infection, injury, or autoimmune disorder.
During an episode of pericarditis, the inflammatory response causes the two layers of the pericardium to become rough and inflamed. As the inflammation subsides, the pericardium may begin to heal and scar, leading to the development of adhesions – bands of fibrous tissue – that form between the pericardial layers. These adhesions can cause the layers to stick together, restricting the heart's movement and function.
Symptoms of adhesive pericarditis may include chest pain, which is typically sharp and worsens during deep breathing or physical activity, as well as shortness of breath, fatigue, and a persistent cough. Depending on the severity of the adhesions, additional complications such as arrhythmias and fluid accumulation around the heart (pericardial effusion) may occur.
The diagnosis of adhesive pericarditis is typically made through clinical evaluation, medical history, and diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (echocardiogram, CT scan, or MRI), electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood tests to assess inflammation markers.
Treatment for adhesive pericarditis usually involves managing the underlying cause and relieving symptoms. This may include the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or colchicine to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the adhesions
Etymology of ADHESIVE PERICARDITIS
The word "adhesive pericarditis" is composed of two main components:
1. Adhesive: The term "adhesive" originated from the Latin word "adhaerēre", which means "to stick" or "to cling". It refers to a substance or material that has the property of sticking or binding things together.
2. Pericarditis: The term "pericarditis" is a medical term derived from the Greek words "peri", meaning "around", and "kardia", meaning "heart". It refers to the inflammation of the pericardium, which is the sac-like structure surrounding the heart.
Therefore, "adhesive pericarditis" specifically describes a condition in which the pericardium becomes inflamed and subsequently develops adhesions or scar tissue, causing it to stick or adhere to the heart or nearby structures.
Similar spelling word for ADHESIVE PERICARDITIS
