elephantiasis etymology

Etymology:

  • elephantiasis (n.)
    • from New Latin, from Greek elephantiasis "elephantiasis," from elephas "elephant"
    • alluding to the thickening and enlargement of the skin caused by the disease

Meaning:

Elephantiasis is a chronic disease caused by the infection of the lymphatic system with parasitic worms, typically filarial worms. It leads to the thickening and hardening of the skin and underlying tissues, particularly in the legs and genitals.

Origin:

The term "elephantiasis" was first coined by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates (c. 460-377 BC). He described the disease as a thickening and hardening of the skin, resembling the skin of an elephant. The term has been used since then to refer to this condition.

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