Moth
Moth (Medicine)
Moth (/mɒθ/), in the context of medicine, is not a term directly related to the insect species, but rather a colloquial term often used to describe certain skin conditions that resemble the irregular, often mottled patterns seen on the wings of many moth species.
Etymology
The term "moth" in this context is derived from the Old English moððe meaning "moth". It is used metaphorically in medicine due to the visual similarity between the patterns seen on moth wings and certain skin conditions.
Related Terms
- Dermatology: The branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases. Moth-like patterns on the skin are often studied within this field.
- Vitiligo: A long-term skin condition characterized by patches of the skin losing their pigment. The patches of skin affected become white and usually have sharp margins. The hair from the skin may also become white. The inside of the mouth and nose may also be involved. Typically both sides of the body are affected. Often the patches begin on areas of skin that are exposed to the sun. It is more noticeable in people with dark skin. Vitiligo may result in psychological stress and those affected may be stigmatized.
- Melasma: A tan or dark skin discoloration. Although it can affect anyone, melasma is particularly common in women, especially pregnant women and those who are taking oral or patch contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medications. It is often associated with the "moth-eaten" appearance of skin.
- Tinea Versicolor: A condition characterized by a skin eruption on the trunk and proximal extremities. The condition is caused by the fungus Malassezia furfur, which is normally found on the human skin. It is referred to as "moth" due to the appearance of the skin after the rash.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Moth
- Wikipedia's article - Moth
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