varices

varices

A doctor examines the patient's varices during a checkup.

Definition
  1. Noun (plural of ):
    • Medical condition: "varices" refers to abnormally dilated, tortuous, and enlarged veins, most commonly occurring in the esophagus (esophageal varices) or legs (varicose veins). This condition results from weakened vein walls or valves, leading to blood pooling and swelling.
    • Pathological anatomy: In medical contexts, "varices" specifically denotes the swollen, twisted veins that are prone to rupture and bleeding, often associated with portal hypertension or chronic venous insufficiency.
Usage Examples
  • (Abnormally dilated veins in the esophagus due to liver disease.)
  • (Varicose veins in the legs.)
  • (Enlarged veins visible during an internal examination.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Ruptured varices": a medical emergency where dilated veins burst, causing severe bleeding.

    • Ruptured esophageal varices are a leading cause of death in patients with cirrhosis. (Life-threatening bleeding from enlarged veins.)

  • "Gastric varices": varices occurring in the stomach lining, often associated with splenic vein thrombosis.

    • Gastric varices are less common but more difficult to treat than esophageal varices. (Enlarged veins in the stomach.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Varix (n, singular): a single abnormally dilated vein.

    • The surgeon ligated the varix to prevent further bleeding. (A single enlarged vein.)

  • Varicose (adj): relating to or affected by varices.

    • She wears compression stockings for her varicose veins. (Veins that are swollen and twisted.)

  • Varicosis (n): the condition of having varices.

    • Chronic varicosis can lead to skin changes and leg ulcers. (The state of having varicose veins.)
Synonyms
  • Varicose veins: a common term for varices in the legs.
  • Venous dilatation: medical term for the abnormal widening of veins.
  • Phlebectasia: the medical condition of dilated veins (less common).
Related Idioms (Medical Context)

  • "Varices of the esophagus": a specific phrase used in gastroenterology.

    • Band ligation is the standard treatment for varices of the esophagus. (Enlarged veins in the gullet.)

  • "Bleeding varices": a critical condition requiring urgent intervention.

    • The patient was admitted for bleeding varices due to liver failure. (Varices that have ruptured and are hemorrhaging.)