SEROPNEUMOTHORAX Meaning and
Definition
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Seropneumothorax is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the presence of both air (pneumothorax) and fluid (serum) in the pleural cavity of the chest. The pleural cavity is the space between the lungs and the chest wall. It normally contains a minimal amount of fluid, allowing the lungs to expand and contract smoothly during respiration.
A seropneumothorax typically occurs as a complication of trauma, such as a puncture or a broken rib, which causes air to leak into the pleural cavity. This accumulation of air can result in lung collapse or impaired lung function, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and decreased oxygen levels. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening.
The addition of serum to the pleural cavity further complicates the condition, as it indicates the presence of additional fluid, often resulting from damage to blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. This mixture of air and fluid creates a potentially dangerous situation, increasing the pressure within the pleural cavity and potentially causing further lung compression.
Managing a seropneumothorax typically involves the insertion of a chest tube to drain the accumulated fluid and air, relieving pressure and allowing the lung to expand. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair any damage or remove adhesions that prevent lung re-expansion. Prompt and effective treatment is crucial to prevent complications and maintain respiratory function.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SEROPNEUMOTHORAX
- seropneumothora8
- seropneumothorah
- seropneumothorap
- seropneumothoray
- seropneumothoraxe
- seropneumothoarax
- s eropneumothorax
- se ropneumothorax
- ser opneumothorax
- seropn eumothorax
- seropne umothorax
- seropneu mothorax
- seropneum othorax
- seropneumo thorax
- seropneumot horax
- seropneumoth orax
- seropneumotho rax
- seropneumothor ax
- seropneumothora x
Etymology of SEROPNEUMOTHORAX
The word "seropneumothorax" is derived from the combination of three roots: "sero-", "pneumo-" and "-thorax".
1. "Sero-" is derived from the Greek root "seros", meaning "serum" or "watery fluid". This prefix is commonly used to refer to serous fluid, which is a clear bodily fluid that can be found in various parts of the body.
2. "Pneumo-" is derived from the Greek word "pneuma", meaning "air" or "breath". It is often used as a prefix related to air or gas.
3. "-thorax" is derived from the Greek word "thōrax", which refers to the chest or thoracic cavity.
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