VILLITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Villitis is a medical term referring to inflammation or irritation of the villi within the placenta. The placenta is an organ that develops during pregnancy and is responsible for supplying nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus. It also helps remove waste products from the fetus. The villi are tiny finger-like structures that line the inside of the placenta and are essential for the exchange of nutrients and gases between the mother and the fetus.
When villitis occurs, these villi become inflamed, which can disrupt the functioning of the placenta. This inflammation can be caused by various factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, or unknown causes. The severity of the condition can vary, ranging from mild inflammation to more severe cases where the villi may become damaged or destroyed.
Villitis can have implications for the health of both the mother and the fetus. It may affect the transfer of nutrients and oxygen, potentially leading to restricted growth or impairment of fetal development. Common symptoms of villitis may include reduced fetal movement, abnormal fetal heart rate, or abnormal levels of certain substances in the mother's blood.
Diagnosis of villitis typically involves ultrasound imaging, blood tests, and sometimes a biopsy of the placenta. Treatment options depend on the severity and underlying cause of the inflammation and may include medication to reduce inflammation or manage associated conditions. In severe cases, early delivery may be necessary to protect the health of the unborn baby.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VILLITIS
- cillitis
- billitis
- gillitis
- fillitis
- vullitis
- vjllitis
- vkllitis
- vollitis
- v9llitis
- v8llitis
- viklitis
- viplitis
- violitis
- vilkitis
- vilpitis
- viloitis
- villutis
- villjtis
- villktis
- villotis
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