Antipleuritic

/ˌæn.tɪ.plʊˈrɪt.ɪk/ adjective

Definition

Effective against pleurisy (inflammation of the membranes around the lungs) or used to treat pleuritic conditions.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + pleuritic (relating to pleurisy, from Greek pleura, side/rib). A medical term for treatments targeting this painful respiratory inflammation.

Kelly Says

Pleurisy—painful inflammation of the lung membranes—was so common in the past that doctors kept 'antipleuritic' remedies ready. Today it's mostly forgotten because antibiotics cured many bacterial causes, showing how medical language preserves diseases we've nearly eliminated.

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