Calculus
Calculus (medicine)
Calculus (pronounced: /ˈkælkjʊləs/), in the field of medicine, refers to a hard, stone-like concretion formed within the body, particularly in the gallbladder and kidneys. The term is derived from the Latin word 'calculus', which means 'small stone'.
Etymology
The term 'calculus' is derived from the Latin word 'calculus', which means 'small stone'. This is a reference to the stone-like nature of the concretions that the term describes.
Types of Calculus
There are several types of calculus that can form in the body, including:
- Renal calculus: Also known as a kidney stone, a renal calculus is a hard mass formed from crystals that separate from the urine and build up on the inner surfaces of the kidney.
- Biliary calculus: Also known as a gallstone, a biliary calculus is a hardened deposit within the fluid in the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver.
- Dental calculus: Also known as tartar, dental calculus is a form of hardened dental plaque. It is caused by the continual accumulation of minerals from saliva on plaque on the teeth.
- Salivary calculus: Also known as a salivary stone, a salivary calculus is a calcified structure in a salivary gland or duct.
Related Terms
- Lithiasis: This is a term that refers to the formation of stony concretions or calculi in the body. It is often used in combination with other terms to describe the location of the stone, such as nephrolithiasis for kidney stones or cholelithiasis for gallstones.
- Urolithiasis: This term refers to stones in any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Calculus
- Wikipedia's article - Calculus
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