Organ failure

Organ Failure

Organ failure (pronunciation: /ˈɔːrɡən ˈfeɪljər/) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when one or more of the body's vital organs stop functioning properly.

Etymology

The term "organ failure" is derived from the Latin word "organum," meaning instrument or tool, and the Old English word "fælan," meaning to fail or be deficient.

Definition

Organ failure can be acute or chronic, and it can affect any organ in the body, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and pancreas. It is often the result of a serious illness or injury, such as sepsis, trauma, or cancer.

Symptoms

The symptoms of organ failure depend on the organ affected and the severity of the condition. They may include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling, pain, and changes in urine or stool.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of organ failure typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsies.

Treatment

Treatment for organ failure depends on the organ affected and the underlying cause. It may include medications, lifestyle changes, dialysis, or organ transplantation.

Prognosis

The prognosis for organ failure varies widely depending on the organ affected, the underlying cause, and the patient's overall health. In some cases, organ failure can be managed with treatment, but in others, it may be life-threatening or fatal.

Related Terms

• Acute organ failure
• Chronic organ failure
• Multi-organ failure
• Organ transplantation
• Dialysis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Organ failure
• Wikipedia's article - Organ failure

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