Myxedema: meaning, definitions and examples

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myxedema

 

[ mɪkˈsiːdəmə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Myxedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism that occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormones. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, including swelling of the skin and underlying tissues, particularly around the eyes and face, and can lead to serious complications if not treated. This condition can be life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.

Synonyms

myxedema syndrome, severe hypothyroidism

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with myxedema due to untreated hypothyroidism.
  • Symptoms of myxedema can include lethargy, weight gain, and skin changes.
  • In severe cases, myxedema coma can develop, requiring hospitalization.

Translations

Translations of the word "myxedema" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mixedema

🇮🇳 मिक्सेडेमा

🇩🇪 Myxödem

🇮🇩 mixedema

🇺🇦 мікседема

🇵🇱 miksedema

🇯🇵 粘液水腫

🇫🇷 myxédème

🇪🇸 mixedema

🇹🇷 miksödem

🇰🇷 점액부종

🇸🇦 وذمة مخاطية

🇨🇿 myxedém

🇸🇰 myxedém

🇨🇳 粘液性水肿

🇸🇮 miksedem

🇮🇸 myxedema

🇰🇿 микседема

🇬🇪 მიქსედემა

🇦🇿 miksedema

🇲🇽 mixedema

Etymology

The term 'myxedema' originates from the Greek words 'myxa,' meaning mucus, and 'oedema,' meaning swelling. It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the swelling associated with severe hypothyroidism. The condition arose when researchers began to understand the implications of thyroid function on health. The historical context emphasizes the link between the thyroid gland's activity and bodily functions, revealing how a deficiency in thyroid hormones manifests physically, leading to a unique presentation of symptoms. Over time, the understanding of myxedema has evolved, reflecting advancements in medical knowledge and practices related to endocrine disorders.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,374 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.