Fecalith
Fecalith
A Fecalith (pronounced: /ˈfiːkəlɪθ/), also known as a stercoralith or coprolith, is a hard, stone-like mass of feces that forms within the digestive tract, typically in the appendix or colon. The term is derived from the Latin words "faeces" meaning "dregs" and "lithos" meaning "stone".
Etymology
The term "Fecalith" is derived from the Latin "faeces" meaning "dregs" or "waste" and the Greek "lithos" meaning "stone". It is used to describe a hardened mass of feces that forms within the digestive tract.
Causes and Symptoms
Fecaliths are often caused by a low-fiber diet, dehydration, or prolonged immobility, which can slow down the passage of stool and cause it to harden. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, appendicitis or bowel obstruction.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of a fecalith typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment often involves increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake to help soften the fecalith and facilitate its passage. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Related Terms
- Appendicitis: An inflammation of the appendix, often caused by a fecalith.
- Bowel obstruction: A blockage in the digestive tract, which can be caused by a fecalith.
- Abdominal ultrasound: An imaging test used to diagnose a fecalith.
- CT scan: A type of imaging test that can be used to diagnose a fecalith.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fecalith
- Wikipedia's article - Fecalith
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