Caput medusae
Caput medusae
Caput medusae (pronounced: /ˈkæpʊt mɪˈduːsiː/), also known as Medusa's head, is a medical term used to describe a specific sign of portal hypertension. The term is derived from the Latin caput, meaning "head", and the Greek mythological figure Medusa, who had snakes for hair. This is due to the appearance of the condition, which resembles the snake-like hair of Medusa.
Etymology
The term "Caput medusae" originates from the Latin caput meaning "head" and Medusa, a gorgon in Greek mythology known for her hair of living, venomous snakes. The condition is so named because the distended veins around the navel can appear to look like snakes, similar to the hair of Medusa.
Definition
Caput medusae refers to the appearance of distended and engorged paraumbilical veins, which are seen radiating from the navel across the abdomen. This condition is typically a sign of severe liver disease, specifically portal hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the portal vein system.
Related Terms
- Portal hypertension: A condition characterized by increased pressure within the portal vein system, often due to liver disease.
- Paraumbilical veins: Veins that drain the front part of the abdominal wall and communicate with the portal vein.
- Liver disease: A type of medical condition that affects the liver.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Caput medusae
- Wikipedia's article - Caput medusae
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