Trajectory
Trajectory
Trajectory (/trəˈdʒɛktəri/; from the Latin trajectus, meaning "thrown") is a term used in physics and mathematics to describe the path that an object follows through space as a function of time. In a medical context, it is often used to describe the progression of a disease or condition over time.
Etymology
The term "trajectory" originates from the Latin trajectus, which means "thrown". It was first used in English in the 1690s to describe the path of a projectile in motion. The term was later adopted in the medical field to describe the progression of diseases or conditions.
Related Terms
- Pathogenesis: The process by which a disease develops, from the initial infection to the ultimate disease state.
- Prognosis: A prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease.
- Epidemiology: The study of how often diseases occur in different groups of people and why.
- Disease progression: The course a disease takes in an individual after its onset, the sequence and speed of its stages.
- Clinical course: The progression and outcome of a disease, which can be acute, sub-acute, or chronic.
Usage in Medicine
In medicine, the term "trajectory" is often used to describe the progression of a disease or condition over time. This can include the initial onset of symptoms, the progression of the disease, and the eventual outcome. For example, the trajectory of a chronic disease like diabetes or heart disease can be significantly influenced by factors such as lifestyle changes, medication adherence, and other interventions.
The concept of disease trajectory is important in patient care and healthcare planning, as it can help healthcare providers predict the likely course of a disease and plan appropriate interventions. It can also help patients understand what to expect and how to manage their condition.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Trajectory
- Wikipedia's article - Trajectory
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