Clinical Diagnosis · Urinary System · Medium
Polyuria
Meaning: Passing abnormally large volumes of urine, over about 3 litres a day.
In practice: With excessive thirst, think of diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus or hypercalcaemia.
Word parts
- poly- means many
- -uria means urine
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related clinical diagnosis words.
Which word means: Discontinuous popping lung sounds heard on auscultation.
Answer: Crackles
Which word means: Diffuse swelling of a whole finger or toe, giving a sausage-like appearance.
Answer: Dactylitis
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