BEJEL Meaning and
Definition
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Bejel refers to a chronic and non-venereal treponemal infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum endemicum. It is commonly found in certain regions of the world, including Africa, Middle East, and parts of Asia. Bejel is classified as a treponemal disease, belonging to the same family as syphilis and yaws. The infection is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infectious lesions, such as skin abrasions or mucous membranes, typically occurring during childhood.
The symptoms of bejel can vary depending on the stage of infection. Initially, individuals may experience mild symptoms such as painless skin lesions, enlarged lymph nodes, or ulcers in the mouth or genitals. As the infection progresses, more severe symptoms such as bone and joint deformities, skin thickening, and gummatous lesions may occur. Bejel is generally considered less severe than syphilis, but it can still cause significant health complications if left untreated.
Diagnosis of bejel involves a combination of clinical assessment, examination of symptoms, and laboratory testing. Serological tests can detect the presence of specific antibodies against T. pallidum, aiding in confirming the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves a course of intramuscular penicillin, which is highly effective in eliminating the infection and reducing the risk of complications. In some cases, oral antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin may be used as alternatives.
Prevention of bejel involves improving basic hygiene practices and reducing the likelihood of direct contact with infected individuals. Public health interventions, such as health education programs and antibiotic treatment campaigns, are crucial in controlling the spread of bejel in endemic regions.
Common Misspellings for BEJEL
Etymology of BEJEL
The word "Bejel" is a medical term referring to a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is also known as non-venereal syphilis or endemic syphilis. The etymology of the word "Bejel" can be traced back to Arabic.
The term "Bejel" originates from the Arabic word "bajil", which means "to shine" or "to be radiant". The word then entered the Turkish language as "bejel" with a similar meaning. The disease acquired this name because it was observed to cause shiny or radiant scars on the affected individual's skin.
During the 19th-century, when European physicians encountered this disease, they adopted the name "bejel" to refer to the specific form of endemic syphilis prevalent in the Mediterranean region.
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