How Do You Spell POLYARTERITIS NODOSA?

1. Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and damage to the small and medium-sized arteries throughout the body. It is a type of vasculitis, which refers to the inflammation of blood vessels. Polyarteritis nodosa predominantly affects the arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the organs including the skin, muscles, and nervous system.

   The exact cause of PAN is still unknown, but it is believed to result from an inappropriate immune system response. Uncontrolled immune activity leads to the formation of nodules, or small knots, on the affected arteries. This disrupts the normal blood flow to the organs and tissues, causing a variety of symptoms.

   Common symptoms of PAN include persistent fever, fatigue, weight loss, muscle and joint pain, skin rashes, abdominal pain, and nerve-related issues such as numbness and weakness. If left untreated, PAN can lead to severe complications including organ damage, kidney failure, and even death.

   Diagnosis of PAN involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as angiography or MRI. Treatment typically involves the use of immunosuppressive medications such as corticosteroids and other drugs that help reduce inflammation and control the immune response.

   Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in managing PAN and preventing complications. Regular follow-up with healthcare professionals is essential to monitor the disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.

2. An affection characterized by the formation of nodules upon the medium-sized and smaller arterial twigs.

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

Common Misspellings for POLYARTERITIS NODOSA

The word "Polyarteritis Nodosa" is a medical term derived from Greek and Latin roots.

The term "poly" is derived from the Greek word "polys", meaning "many" or "multiple". "Arteritis" is formed from the Latin word "arteria", meaning "artery", and the suffix "-itis", indicating inflammation. "Nodosa" comes from the Latin word "nodus", meaning "knot" or "node".

Therefore, "polyarteritis nodosa" literally translates to "inflammation of many arteries forming nodules". This term describes the characteristic feature of the disease, which involves inflammation and the development of nodular lesions in small and medium-sized arteries.