PINK DISEASE Meaning and
Definition
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Pink disease, also known as acrodynia or erythredema, is a rare condition primarily affecting young children characterized by a distinct reddening or pink discoloration of the skin. The term "pink disease" specifically refers to this particular symptom. Although the condition was more prevalent in the past, it has become increasingly rare due to changes in manufacturing practices.
Pink disease is believed to be caused by exposure to certain chemical compounds, such as mercury, phenols, or related compounds. Historically, it was more common in children who were exposed to mercury-containing medications, teething powders, or soaps. However, modern regulations have mitigated this risk, thereby reducing the incidence of the condition.
Symptoms accompanying the skin discoloration in pink disease can include a range of signs such as irritability, sleep problems, loss of appetite, excessive sweating, swollen hands and feet, and elevated blood pressure. In severe cases, affected individuals may also experience muscle weakness, joint pain, and sensitivity to touch. If left untreated, pink disease can lead to long-term complications, such as peripheral nerve damage.
Treatment for pink disease usually involves removal of the source of exposure to the offending compounds, followed by supportive care to manage the symptoms. This may include pain relief, addressing sleep issues, and providing a well-balanced diet. In most cases, the skin discoloration will gradually fade over time, while other symptoms tend to resolve as the child grows.
Common Misspellings for PINK DISEASE
- oink disease
- link disease
- -ink disease
- 0ink disease
- punk disease
- pjnk disease
- pknk disease
- ponk disease
- p9nk disease
- p8nk disease
- pibk disease
- pimk disease
- pijk disease
- pihk disease
- pinj disease
- pinm disease
- pinl disease
- pino disease
- pini disease
Etymology of PINK DISEASE
The word "pink disease" originally referred to a condition known as acrodynia, which mainly affected young children. However, the etymology of the term "pink disease" is not directly associated with its medical symptoms.
The word "pink" in "pink disease" refers to the pinkish or reddish discoloration of the skin observed in affected individuals. This discoloration was one of the prominent symptoms of acrodynia.
The term "pink disease" was coined in the late 19th century when the condition was first identified by an Australian physician named Arthur D. White. He named it "pink disease" due to the characteristic skin color changes. Initially, the word "pink" provided a simple and descriptive name for the condition's most visible symptom.
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