Omphalitis
Omphalitis
Omphalitis (pronounced om-fuh-LY-tis) is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the umbilicus, commonly known as the belly button, due to a bacterial infection.
Etymology
The term "Omphalitis" is derived from the Greek word "omphalos" which means "navel" and "-itis" which is a common suffix in medical terminology used to denote inflammation.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of Omphalitis include redness, swelling, and warmth around the navel area, along with possible discharge of pus. In severe cases, it can lead to systemic infection, causing symptoms such as fever and lethargy.
Causes
Omphalitis is typically caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly by Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli. It is most common in newborns, particularly those with a compromised immune system or an improperly cared for umbilical stump.
Treatment
Treatment for Omphalitis usually involves antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove the infected tissue.
Related Terms
- Inflammation: The body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain.
- Umbilicus: Also known as the belly button, it is the scar on the abdomen that is caused when the umbilical cord is cut at birth.
- Staphylococcus aureus: A type of bacteria that can cause various infections.
- Escherichia coli: A type of bacteria that lives in the intestines of humans and animals. Some strains can cause severe illness.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Omphalitis
- Wikipedia's article - Omphalitis
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