Pleocytosis
Pleocytosis
Pleocytosis (/pliːəˈsaɪtəsɪs/) is a medical condition characterized by an increased number of cells, typically white blood cells, in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Etymology
The term "Pleocytosis" is derived from the Greek words "pleio" meaning more, and "kytos" meaning cell.
Definition
Pleocytosis is a condition that is often associated with infections of the central nervous system, such as meningitis and encephalitis. It can also occur in other conditions such as multiple sclerosis, neurosyphilis, and subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pleocytosis is typically made through a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, where a sample of cerebrospinal fluid is taken and analyzed. An increased number of white blood cells in the CSF is indicative of pleocytosis.
Treatment
Treatment of pleocytosis is dependent on the underlying cause. For example, if the cause is a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the cause is a viral infection, antiviral medications may be used. In some cases, such as with multiple sclerosis, treatment may involve managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease with medications such as corticosteroids and immunomodulators.
Related Terms
- Leukocytosis: An increase in the number of white blood cells in the blood.
- Cerebrospinal fluid: The fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
- Lumbar puncture: A procedure used to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pleocytosis
- Wikipedia's article - Pleocytosis
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