Cortisone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cortisone

[ˈkɔːrtɪsoʊn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical treatment

Cortisone is a type of steroid hormone that is produced by the adrenal cortex. It is commonly used in medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including inflammation and allergic reactions. Cortisone can help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain, making it effective for conditions like arthritis and asthma. However, long-term use may lead to side effects such as weight gain and weakened bones. Cortisone can be administered in several ways, including injections and oral tablets.

Synonyms

anti-inflammatory, hydrocortisone, steroid.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor prescribed cortisone for his arthritis.
  • She received a cortisone injection to reduce inflammation.
  • Cortisone helps alleviate severe allergic reactions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Uses

  • Cortisone is commonly used in treating conditions like arthritis and allergies, providing relief from inflammation.
  • It can be administered through injections, pills, or topical creams, depending on the condition being treated.

History

  • Cortisone was one of the first steroid hormones to be successfully synthesized and is considered a breakthrough in medicine.
  • The discovery of cortisone led to the development of steroid therapy, revolutionizing the treatment of various diseases.

Biology

  • Cortisone plays a significant role in the body’s stress response, helping to regulate metabolism and immune function.
  • It is derived from another hormone called cortisol, which increases during stressful situations.

Pop Culture

  • Cortisone injections have made their way into sports media as athletes have used it to manage pain and injuries.
  • References to cortisone can be found in discussions about wellness and alternative medicine, often highlighting its importance.

Origin of 'cortisone'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'cortisone' comes from 'cortex,' which refers to the outer layer of the adrenal gland where it is produced.
  • Originally discovered in the 1940s, its name indicates its relation to the hormones generated by the adrenal cortex.

The term 'cortisone' was first coined in the 1940s. It is derived from the name 'cortex,' which refers to the outer layer of the adrenal gland where cortisone is produced. Cortisone is a product of the steroid hormones and closely related to cortisol, which is a hormone that plays a vital role in the stress response. The discovery of cortisone and its effects marked a significant advancement in the field of endocrinology and medicine, allowing for practical applications in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. Over the decades, cortisone's applications have expanded, and it has become a common treatment option for managing various medical issues, especially those involving inflammation.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,266, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.