ATONIC ULCER Meaning and
Definition
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An atonic ulcer refers to a type of ulcer that occurs as a result of weakened or diminished muscular tone in the affected area. Ulcers, in general, are open sores or wounds that develop on the skin or mucous membranes. However, an atonic ulcer specifically arises due to lack of muscle tone, which can cause the affected tissues to become more susceptible to injury, damage, or failure to heal properly.
Typically, atonic ulcers are most commonly found in the gastrointestinal system, particularly in the stomach or duodenum. In these cases, the weakened muscular wall fails to contract adequately, leading to reduced motility and impaired digestion. The impaired muscle tone and decreased function create an environment where digestive acids and enzymes may damage the lining of the stomach or duodenum over time, resulting in the formation of an ulcer.
Symptoms of atonic ulcers may include chronic or recurrent abdominal pain, digestive disturbances like bloating or nausea, weight loss, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Proper diagnosis of an atonic ulcer is often made through a combination of physical examination, medical history evaluation, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, ultrasound, or barium X-rays.
Treatment for atonic ulcers aims to address the underlying cause while promoting healing and symptom relief. This could involve lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and stress management, medications to reduce acid secretion or promote healing, and, in severe cases, surgery to correct any structural issues or complications. Prompt and appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent potential complications associated with atonic ulcers.
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One which shows little or no tendency to heal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ATONIC ULCER
- ztonic ulcer
- stonic ulcer
- wtonic ulcer
- qtonic ulcer
- aronic ulcer
- afonic ulcer
- agonic ulcer
- ayonic ulcer
- a6onic ulcer
- a5onic ulcer
- atinic ulcer
- atknic ulcer
- atlnic ulcer
- atpnic ulcer
- at0nic ulcer
- at9nic ulcer
- atobic ulcer
- atomic ulcer
- atojic ulcer
- atohic ulcer
Etymology of ATONIC ULCER
The word "atonic" originates from late Latin "atonus", which is derived from the Greek word "átonos" (ἄτονος). "Atonos" is a combination of the prefix "a-" (meaning "without" or "not") and the word "tonos" (meaning "tension" or "tone").
The term "ulcer" comes from the Latin word "ulcus", meaning "sore" or "ulcer". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*elek(w)-", which means "to cut" or "to tear". The word "ulcer" reflects the aspect of the skin or mucous membrane being damaged and eroded.
Therefore, when combined, "atonic ulcer" refers to an ulcer that occurs due to the lack of muscular tension or tone, resulting in the erosion of the skin or mucous membrane.
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