How Do You Spell CHOLERA SICCA?

1. Cholera sicca, also known as dry cholera or algid cholera, is a rare and severe form of cholera, a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Unlike the typical form of cholera, where individuals experience profuse diarrhea, cholera sicca is characterized by a lack of significant bowel movement.

   In cholera sicca, the symptoms appear abruptly and progress rapidly. Affected individuals may experience severe dehydration, intense thirst, dry and cracked lips, dry mouth, decreased urine output, and sunken eyes. The absence of diarrhea in cholera sicca is due to the rapid absorption of fluid from the intestinal tract, leading to extreme dehydration without the typical cholera-related watery stool.

   This condition is considered a medical emergency due to its severity and rapid progression, requiring prompt medical attention and treatment. Intravenous fluid replacement may be necessary to address the severe dehydration. Antibiotics may also be administered to treat the bacterial infection and halt its spread in the body.

   Cholera sicca is most commonly observed in individuals who have compromised immune systems or pre-existing medical conditions that weaken their ability to fight off infections. It can also occur in individuals who have already undergone partial or full resection of the small intestine. However, with the implementation of improved sanitation and access to clean drinking water in most parts of the world, cholera sicca has become increasingly rare.

2. A malignant form in which death occurs from toxemia before diarrhea has begun.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for CHOLERA SICCA

The term "cholera sicca" is derived from two different sources:

1. Cholera: The term "cholera" comes from the Greek word "kholera", which means "a flow of bile". It was further derived from the Greek word "khole", meaning "bile". The disease was named based on the observation of intense diarrhea associated with the condition.

2. Sicca: The word "sicca" originates from the Latin word "siccus", which means "dry" or "dryness". It is used as an adjective to describe a condition characterized by dryness or lack of moisture.

Therefore, "cholera sicca" combines these two terms. It refers to a form or variant of cholera where the typical symptoms of diarrhea and severe fluid loss may be absent, leading to a presentation of dryness or dehydration.