Cephalitis

/ˌsɛfəˈlaɪtɪs/ noun

Definition

Inflammation of the head or brain, or more specifically, encephalitis (inflammation of brain tissue).

Etymology

From Greek 'kephale' (head) + '-itis' (inflammation suffix). This medical term follows the standard pattern for naming inflammatory conditions by adding '-itis' to the affected body part.

Kelly Says

Cephalitis is a serious condition where the brain's protective tissues swell—it's one of those medical situations where the precise Greek terminology helps doctors convey the severity and location of inflammation immediately.

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