PLEUROCELE Meaning and
Definition
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Pleurocele is a medical term used to describe a condition in which there is an abnormal sac-like protrusion or herniation in the pleural cavity. The pleural cavity is the space between the two layers of the pleura, a thin membrane that covers the lungs and lines the chest cavity. This condition typically occurs as a result of a weakness or defect in the chest wall or the diaphragm, leading to a localized bulge.
Pleuroceles can vary in size and location, and their development can be congenital or acquired. Congenital pleuroceles refer to those that are present at birth, and they tend to arise from a failure of the chest wall or diaphragm to properly form during fetal development. Acquired pleuroceles, on the other hand, are often caused by trauma, surgery, or a weakening of the chest wall muscles due to age, chronic cough, or increased pressure in the thoracic cavity.
Symptoms of pleurocele may include difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing, and wheezing. The severity of symptoms can depend on the size and location of the pleurocele, as well as any underlying conditions.
Treatment of pleurocele typically involves surgical intervention to repair the defect in the chest wall or diaphragm and to remove or reduce the size of the protrusion. In some cases, a pleurocele may require no treatment if it is small and asymptomatic. However, regular monitoring and follow-up are often recommended to ensure the condition does not worsen or cause complications.
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Pneumocele, hernia of the lung.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLEUROCELE
Etymology of PLEUROCELE
The word "pleurocele" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "pleuro-" and "-cele".
1. "Pleuro-" comes from the Greek word "pleurós" (πλευρός), meaning "rib" or "lateral side". The root "pleuro-" is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to the ribs or the side of the body.
2. "-Cele" comes from the Greek word "kḗlē" (κήλη), which means "protrusion", "swelling", or "hernia". The suffix "-cele" is used in medical terminology to denote a pathological condition characterized by an abnormal bulging or protrusion.
