How Do You Spell TABETIC ARTHROPATHY?

1. Tabetic arthropathy, also known as Charcot joint or neurogenic arthropathy, is a progressive degenerative disorder affecting joints, often observed in individuals with untreated or inadequately managed tertiary syphilis, as well as those suffering from advanced stages of diabetic neuropathy.

   Tabetic arthropathy is characterized by the destruction of the weight-bearing joints, particularly the feet and ankles. It is caused by neurovascular changes that result from the damage to the peripheral nerves, leading to the loss of sensation and proprioception. Without the ability to feel pain or properly sense joint position, individuals with tabetic arthropathy continue to use afflicted joints despite potential damage or stress, eventually leading to joint deformity and destruction.

   The most prominent features of tabetic arthropathy include joint swelling, redness, warmth, and severe painless deformities. The affected joints appear swollen due to inflammation and effusion. As the condition progresses, the joints may become destabilized, and their structure might deteriorate, leading to significant bone loss and dislocation. The visible deformities coupled with the absence of pain can sometimes lead to joint destruction, fractures, and eventual mobility impairment.

   The diagnosis of tabetic arthropathy is made based on clinical findings, history of underlying syphilis or diabetes, and radiological imaging such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause, such as appropriate antibiotic therapy for syphilis or optimizing glycemic control in diabetes, in addition to pain management, physical therapy, and orthopedic interventions when necessary. Early detection and comprehensive management are crucial in minimizing joint damage and preventing further disability.

2. Charcot's disease, an enlargement of a joint, due to rarefying osteitis, often associated by spontaneous fractures, occurring in tabes dorsalis.

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

Common Misspellings for TABETIC ARTHROPATHY

The word "tabetic arthropathy" has its roots in medical terminology and is derived from two primary terms: "tabetic" and "arthropathy".

1. Tabetic: The term "tabetic" refers to tabes dorsalis, which is a condition caused by advanced stages of tertiary syphilis. It primarily affects the nervous system and can lead to various symptoms, including locomotor ataxia, neuropathic pain, and sensory loss. The term "tabes dorsalis" is derived from Latin, where "tabes" means "wasting" or "degeneration", and "dorsalis" means "of the back" or "dorsal".

2. Arthropathy: The term "arthropathy" broadly refers to any disease or disorder affecting the joints.