Definition

Noun A mild form of smallpox caused by a less virulent (weaker) form of the virus. It is also known medically as alastrim or variola minor. This disease has symptoms similar to classic smallpox but is much less severe and has a much lower fatality rate.

Usage

The term is used in medical and historical contexts to describe a specific, milder type of smallpox. * The outbreak was caused by pseudosmallpox, so the mortality rate was thankfully low. * Pseudosmallpox was once common but was eradicated along with the more deadly form of the disease.

Advanced Usage

• The term is largely historical, as smallpox has been eradicated worldwide. It is primarily encountered in medical history texts.
• "to be diagnosed with pseudosmallpox": to be formally identified as having this specific disease.
  • Patients were relieved to learn they had been diagnosed with pseudosmallpox rather than the major form.

Variants and Related Words

• Alastrim (n): The standard medical term synonymous with pseudosmallpox.
• Variola minor (n): The Latin-derived scientific name for pseudosmallpox.
• Smallpox (n): The general disease category. Pseudosmallpox is a mild type of smallpox.

Synonyms

• Alastrim
• Variola minor
• Mild smallpox

Antonyms

• Variola major (n): The severe, often fatal form of smallpox.

Noun

1. a mild form of smallpox caused by a less virulent form of the virus