How Do You Spell SUBCUTANEOUS EMPHYSEMA?

1. Subcutaneous emphysema is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal presence of air or gas underneath the skin. It occurs when air or gas from the deeper tissues of the body, such as the lungs or the gastrointestinal tract, leaks and accumulates in the layer of tissue just beneath the skin, called the subcutaneous tissue.

   The most common cause of subcutaneous emphysema is a rupture or tear in the lung tissue, which allows air to escape into the surrounding tissues. This can be a result of trauma, such as a rib fracture, or a complication of lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. However, subcutaneous emphysema can also occur due to air or gas leakage from the gastrointestinal tract, especially in cases of perforated ulcers or intestinal obstructions.

   The characteristic symptom of subcutaneous emphysema is the presence of a crackling or "crepitus" sensation when pressure is applied to the affected area of the skin. Other signs and symptoms can include swelling, pain, and a puffy or swollen appearance. In severe cases, subcutaneous emphysema can lead to respiratory distress, difficulty breathing, or other complications.

   Treatment for subcutaneous emphysema primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause, such as repairing a lung or gastrointestinal tear. Supportive care, including pain management, oxygen therapy, or respiratory support, may also be necessary. In most cases, subcutaneous emphysema resolves once the underlying cause is addressed, but medical monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure complete recovery.

2. The presence of air or gas in the subcutaneous connective tissues.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for SUBCUTANEOUS EMPHYSEMA

The word "subcutaneous emphysema" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.

- "Subcutaneous" comes from the Latin prefix "sub-" meaning "below" or "under", and the Latin word "cutis" meaning "skin".

- "Emphysema" comes from the Greek word "emphysāo" which means "to inflate" or "to blow".

Therefore, "subcutaneous emphysema" refers to the condition where air or gas is trapped in the tissue layers beneath the skin, causing it to become swollen or inflated.