Antifungal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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antifungal
[หรฆntiหfสลษกษl ]
Definitions
medical treatment
Capable of preventing the growth of fungi.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antifungal |
This term is commonly used in medical and healthcare settings to refer to substances that treat or prevent fungal infections. It is a general term and can be applied to a wide range of medications, creams, and treatments.
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| antimycotic |
This word is another term for antifungal substances and is often used in both medical and veterinary contexts. It is somewhat less common in everyday conversations compared to 'antifungal'.
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| antifungicidal |
This term is more specific and scientific, referring to substances that kill fungi rather than just inhibiting their growth. It is primarily used in scientific literature and technical discussions.
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Examples of usage
- Antifungal medication is often prescribed to treat fungal infections.
- Antifungal creams are commonly used to treat athlete's foot.
medical field
A substance that inhibits the growth of fungi.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antifungal |
As this word is a repeat listing, it shares the same context and applications as mentioned earlier. It's essential in medical treatments to curb fungal infections by inhibiting fungal growth.
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| antimycotic |
This term is used in both medical and scientific contexts, particularly in European or more formal settings, to describe substances that both prevent and treat fungal infections. It may be found in professional or academic discussions.
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| antifungicidal |
This term is used in more specific scientific or medical contexts to refer to substances that kill fungi directly, as opposed to merely inhibiting their growth. It is typically used in detailed medical literature or research.
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Examples of usage
- Antifungals are commonly used in the treatment of fungal infections.
- Some antifungal drugs target specific types of fungi.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The first antifungal medication, griseofulvin, was discovered in the 1930s from a type of mold.
- Penicillin, known for its antibacterial properties, is derived from a mold but led researchers toward the discovery of antifungal therapies.
Science
- Fungi are found everywhere, with some species capable of causing infections in humans, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
- Antifungals work by disrupting the cell membrane of fungi, preventing their growth and reproduction.
Pop Culture
- In popular media, antifungals are often mentioned in connection with medical dramas highlighting hospital settings and treatment plans.
- Some antifungal creams even make appearances in comedic scenarios in films or TV shows, where characters have funny mishaps with foot powder or spray.
Health and Psychology
- Fungal infections can sometimes lead to significant psychological distress due to their visible nature, like athlete's foot or nail fungus.
- Studies are being conducted on the role of certain antifungal treatments in mental health, exploring their potential effects on mood disorders.
Origin of 'antifungal'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'anti-' meaning against, and 'fungus', a type of organism like mold or mushrooms.
- Fungi have existed for millions of years, and the term began appearing in medical texts in the 20th century.
The term 'antifungal' originates from the combination of 'anti-' meaning against, and 'fungal' related to fungi. Antifungal agents have been used for centuries in various forms to treat fungal infections, with modern medicine developing more targeted and effective antifungal treatments over time.