EPIDURAL ABSCESS Meaning and
Definition
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An epidural abscess is a rare but serious medical condition characterized by the development of a collection of pus, or an abscess, that forms in the epidural space of the spinal cord. The epidural space is the area between the outer protective covering of the spinal cord and the surrounding vertebrae.
The abscess usually occurs as a result of a bacterial infection that spreads to the epidural space from other regions of the body, such as the skin, respiratory or urinary tract, or through bacteria entering the bloodstream. This infection can lead to the accumulation of bacteria, white blood cells, and dead tissue, causing swelling and pressure on the spinal cord and its surrounding nerves.
The symptoms of an epidural abscess typically develop gradually and may include severe back pain, fever, weakness or paralysis in the limbs, loss of sensation, difficulty with bowel or bladder control, and an overall decline in neurological function. Prompt medical attention is crucial as delayed treatment can result in severe complications, including permanent nerve damage, spinal cord injury, or even paralysis.
Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans to visualize the abscess and determine its location and size. Treatment often involves the administration of intravenous antibiotics to control the infection, followed by surgical drainage or debridement to remove the abscess and alleviate pressure on the spinal cord.
Overall, epidural abscess is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention to prevent serious complications and preserve neurological function.
Common Misspellings for EPIDURAL ABSCESS
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Etymology of EPIDURAL ABSCESS
The word "epidural" comes from two Latin roots: "epi", meaning "upon" or "over", and "dura", meaning "hard" or "tough". In medical terminology, "epidural" refers to the space that lies just above the protective outer layer of the spinal cord called the dura mater.
The term "abscess" also has Latin origins, derived from the Latin word "abscessus", meaning "a going away, abscess". It refers to a localized collection of pus that forms within tissues of the body as a result of infection.
Therefore, "epidural abscess" describes an abscess that develops within the epidural space, which is the space between the spinal cord and the protective covering around it.
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