How Do You Spell PERICARDITIS EXTERNA?

1. Pericarditis externa is a medical term referring to inflammation of the outer layer of the pericardium, which is a thin, membranous sac that surrounds and protects the heart. The prefix "peri-" means around, while "-card" pertains to the heart, and "-itis" denotes inflammation. Also known as epicarditis, pericarditis externa specifically involves the outer layer of the pericardium.

   When pericarditis externa occurs, the outer layer of the pericardium becomes inflamed due to various underlying causes. It can be caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, or may be a result of trauma, surgery, or certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. In some cases, pericarditis externa may be idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown.

   The inflammation of the outer layer of the pericardium can lead to symptoms such as sharp chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing, and a sensation of the heart beating rapidly or irregularly. These symptoms may be similar to those of other heart and lung conditions, making diagnosis important to determine appropriate treatment.

   Treatment for pericarditis externa aims to reduce inflammation and manage the underlying cause. This may involve the use of anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics or antifungals in case of infection, and addressing any underlying medical conditions. In severe cases, drainage of any accumulated fluid around the heart may be necessary. Close monitoring and follow-up are important to ensure resolution of the condition and prevent complications.

2. Inflammation of the outer surface of the pericardium, practically always coexistent with inflammation of the serous surface of the pericardium and of the cellular tissue of the mediastinum.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PERICARDITIS EXTERNA

The term "pericarditis externa" is a medical term, specifically referring to inflammation of the outer layer of the pericardium, which is the protective membrane surrounding the heart.

The etymology of "pericarditis" can be broken down as follows:

- "Peri-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "peri", meaning around or surrounding.

- "Card-" is derived from the Latin word "cardia", meaning heart.

- "-itis" is a suffix used to indicate inflammation.

Therefore, "pericarditis" can be translated to "inflammation around the heart".

The term "externa" is a Latin adjective meaning external or outer. So, when combined, "pericarditis externa" refers to the external inflammation of the pericardium.