How Do You Spell WANDERING KIDNEY?

1. A wandering kidney is a medical condition characterized by the displacement or abnormal mobility of the kidneys within the abdominal cavity. Normally, the kidneys are positioned in the upper abdominal area, on either side of the spine, and are held in place by several strong ligaments, as well as by the surrounding organs. However, in the case of a wandering kidney, these supportive structures become weak or loose, allowing the kidney to move freely from its normal position.

   This condition is also known as floating kidney, renal ptosis, or nephroptosis. The wandering kidney usually descends downwards when the affected individual stands up or moves, and can even reach a significantly lower position than its usual anatomical location. This movement may cause symptoms such as dull or sharp flank pain, abdominal discomfort, or even urinary problems, including blood in the urine or frequent urination. The pain may be intermittent, and can sometimes be relieved when lying down.

   The causes of a wandering kidney are not fully understood, but certain factors seem to contribute to its development. These include a congenital weakness in the supporting ligaments, inappropriate weight loss or dieting, physical trauma, pregnancy, or activities or occupations that involve excessive physical strain or repetitive motion.

   Treatment for a wandering kidney may involve conservative measures such as lifestyle modifications, avoidance of heavy lifting or strenuous activities, and the use of support garments or waistbands to stabilize the kidney. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to reposition and fixate the kidney into its proper place.

2. Floating k.

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

Common Misspellings for WANDERING KIDNEY

The term "wandering kidney" is a colloquial phrase that is not used in medical terminology anymore. It was used in the past to describe a condition called nephroptosis, which refers to a prolapsed or displaced kidney.

The word "wandering" in this context comes from the idea that the affected kidney would move or wander from its normal anatomical position. The term "kidney" is derived from the Old English word "cynēoce", which is believed to have come from the Latin word "renes", meaning "kidneys". The Latin word itself might have been derived from an earlier Etruscan or Greek term.

Overall, the etymology of "wandering kidney" is a combination of the concept of the kidney moving and the historical naming conventions for the organ.