Angioelephantiasis

/ˌændʒioʊˌɛləfənˈtaɪəsɪs/ noun

Definition

A condition of abnormal enlargement of blood vessels leading to massive swelling and thickening of body parts, resembling elephant-like proportions.

Etymology

Greek 'angeion' (blood vessel) + 'elephantis' (elephant-like, from 'elephas'). This rare term combines vascular disease terminology with the classical medical reference to elephant-like swelling.

Kelly Says

Angioelephantiasis is one of the most dramatic medical conditions—the blood vessels in affected areas swell so much that limbs can become absolutely enormous, literally elephant-sized, which is why doctors named it that way!

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