hypersplenism

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Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A medical condition characterized by an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) and a reduction in the number of one or more types of blood cells (cytopenia). It is not a disease itself but is associated with or secondary to many other disorders.
Usage
  • The term is used in medical contexts to describe a specific syndrome of splenic overactivity. It explains how an enlarged spleen can prematurely destroy or sequester blood cells, leading to low counts.
Examples
  • Noun:
    • The patient's anemia and low platelet count were attributed to hypersplenism caused by liver cirrhosis.
    • Hypersplenism is a common complication of certain chronic infections and inflammatory diseases.
    • Treatment for the underlying disorder can sometimes alleviate the symptoms of hypersplenism.
Advanced Usage
  • "Secondary hypersplenism": The most common form, where the condition arises due to another primary disease affecting the spleen, such as portal hypertension, lymphoma, or malaria.
  • "Hypersplenic cytopenia": A more specific term emphasizing the reduction in blood cell counts (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia) that defines the condition.
Variants and Related Words
  • Splenomegaly (n): The medical term for an enlarged spleen, which is a key component of hypersplenism.
  • Cytopenia (n): A deficiency in the number of blood cells.
  • Splenectomy (n): The surgical removal of the spleen, a potential treatment for severe hypersplenism.
Synonyms
  • Splenic overactivity: A descriptive synonym focusing on the spleen's excessive function.
  • Hypersplenic syndrome: An alternative term sometimes used interchangeably.
Related Medical Concepts
  • Sequestration: The process by which the spleen traps and holds blood cells, contributing to their reduced circulation.
  • Peripheral blood cytopenia: Low blood cell counts in the bloodstream, as measured by a standard blood test, which is a hallmark of hypersplenism.
Noun
  1. enlarged spleen and a decrease in one or more types of blood cells; associated with many disorders