How Do You Spell VARIOLA MILIARIS?

1. Variola miliaris is a medical term that refers to a specific form of smallpox, a highly contagious and potentially deadly viral infection. It is an acute febrile illness characterized by the eruption of numerous small, raised skin lesions on the body. The term "variola" comes from the Latin word for smallpox, while "miliaris" refers to the numerous tiny lesions resembling millet seeds that appear on the skin.

   The variola miliaris form of smallpox is typically more benign compared to other forms of the disease. In this form, the fever and general symptoms are usually less severe, and the rash is characterized by the eruption of minute, raised, red-colored papules that gradually develop into pustules filled with fluid. These lesions tend to be more concentrated on the face, mouth, hands, and feet. Over time, the pustules scab and eventually heal, but they can leave behind permanent scarring.

   Historically, variola miliaris was considered a milder form of smallpox and had a lower mortality rate compared to other variants of the disease. However, it still posed a significant threat, particularly to children and individuals with weakened immune systems. With the successful global eradication of smallpox in 1980 through widespread vaccination efforts, variola miliaris is now only of historical interest and is no longer a public health concern.

2. A form of varioloid in which the eruption consists of miliary vesicles without the formation of pustules.

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

Common Misspellings for VARIOLA MILIARIS

The word "variola miliaris" is derived from Latin.

"Variola" originates from the Latin word "varius", which means "speckled" or "spotted". It refers to the characteristic appearance of the pustules on the skin during an infection of smallpox, which is caused by the variola virus.

"Miliaris" also comes from Latin and is derived from "miliarius", meaning "pertaining to millet seeds". It was used to describe lesions that resembled small millet seeds, which are small and round.

Therefore, "variola miliaris" describes smallpox lesions that are spotted and resemble millet seeds, which is an older term for a mild form of smallpox.