ACUTE ABSCESS Meaning and
Definition
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Acute abscess is a medical condition characterized by a localized collection of pus in the body, typically resulting from a bacterial infection. The term "acute" refers to the sudden onset and rapid progression of the abscess, indicating that it develops over a short period of time.
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms when the body's immune system attempts to fight off an infection, walling off the affected area. In the case of an acute abscess, this process occurs swiftly due to the aggressive nature of the infection, resulting in the rapid accumulation of pus. The abscess is often accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, and severe pain in the affected area.
Common sites for acute abscess formation include the skin, teeth, gums, and other internal organs. Bacterial infections, typically caused by organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, are the most common causes of acute abscesses. However, they can also be a result of other factors like trauma, foreign objects, or obstructed glands.
Treatment for acute abscess usually involves draining the pus from the affected area using a needle or surgical procedure. Antibiotics are often prescribed to eliminate the underlying infection. In some cases, surgical removal of the abscess may be necessary. Pain relief medication and warm compresses are also commonly used to manage symptoms.
Prompt medical attention is crucial in cases of acute abscess to prevent the infection from spreading and causing further complications. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and reduce the risk of recurrent infections.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ACUTE ABSCESS
- zcute abscess
- scute abscess
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Etymology of ACUTE ABSCESS
The term "acute abscess" consists of two individual words:
1. "Acute" originates from the Latin word "acutus", which means "sharpened" or "pointed". In the medical context, "acute" is used to describe a condition that has a sudden onset, is severe, and lasts for a relatively short period.
2. "Abscess" comes from the Latin word "abscessus", which means "a going away" or "departure". It is derived from the verb "abscedere", meaning "to go away". In medical terminology, an abscess refers to a localized collection of pus within tissues, usually caused by an infection.
Therefore, the term "acute abscess" describes a sudden, severe, and relatively short-lasting collection of pus resulting from an infection.
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