Clinical Diagnosis · Endocrine System · Medium
Thyroiditis
Meaning: Inflammation of the gland in the neck that regulates metabolism, which can cause over- or underactivity.
In practice: Painful neck swelling after a viral illness pointed to subacute thyroiditis.
Word parts
- -itis means inflammation
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: Premature fusion of one or more of the fibrous joints in an infant's skull, causing an abnormal head shape.
Answer: Craniosynostosis
Which word means: Production of an abnormally small amount of urine, often a sign of acute kidney injury.
Answer: Oliguria
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