Haemophilia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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haemophilia
[ˌhiːməˈfɪliə ]
Definition
medical condition
Haemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to make blood clots. This condition is typically inherited and results from a deficiency in certain clotting factors, which are proteins necessary for blood coagulation. The severity of haemophilia can vary, with some individuals experiencing mild symptoms while others may suffer from severe bleeding episodes. Without effective management, individuals with haemophilia face significant risks, particularly during injuries or surgeries. Treatment often involves replacement therapy, where the missing clotting factors are administered to prevent or control bleeding.
Synonyms
blood-clotting disorder, hemophilia.
Examples of usage
- Many children with haemophilia learn to manage their condition from a young age.
- Haemophilia can lead to unexpected bleeding during physical activities.
- The treatment for haemophilia involves regular infusions of clotting factor.
- Awareness programs for haemophilia are essential for guiding families.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Medical Insights
- Haemophilia is primarily inherited, meaning it can run in families, especially affecting males more than females.
- It’s classified mainly into two types: Haemophilia A, caused by a deficiency of factor VIII, and Haemophilia B, linked to factor IX.
- Treatment often involves replacing the missing clotting factors, which can be done through injections.
Pop Culture
- Haemophilia has been depicted in various movies and TV shows, highlighting the struggles of those living with the condition.
- The famous historical figure, Tsarevich Alexei of Russia, had haemophilia, which significantly influenced Russian history.
Psychological Perspective
- Living with haemophilia can lead to increased anxiety levels, especially around potential injuries and managing everyday activities.
- Support groups are vital for emotional well-being, providing a sense of community and shared experience for those affected.
Historical Context
- During World War I, soldiers with haemophilia were often drafted despite their condition, bringing attention to the disorder's challenges.
- In the early 20th century, a famous royal lineage known as the 'Royal Disease' referred to how haemophilia spread through European royal families.
Origin of 'haemophilia'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Greek roots: 'haima' meaning blood and 'philia' meaning a love or affinity.
- The term has been used since the late 19th century to describe the bleeding disorder.
The term 'haemophilia' derives from the Greek words 'haima', meaning 'blood', and 'philia', meaning 'love' or 'affinity'. The concept of haemophilia dates back to ancient times, although it was not well understood until the 19th century. The first detailed descriptions of the condition emerged in the early 1900s, when scientists began to recognize its hereditary nature. The medical community became increasingly aware of the disorder's genetic components, leading to advancements in diagnosis and treatment in the latter half of the 20th century. Today, haemophilia is primarily categorized into two main types: A and B, differentiated by the specific clotting factor involved.