CINCHONISM Meaning and
Definition
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Cinchonism is a medical condition that stems from the use of cinchona alkaloids, predominantly quinine, as a treatment for malaria. The term "cinchonism" originates from the name of the cinchona tree from which the alkaloids are derived. It refers to a set of symptoms and side effects that can occur as a result of quinine administration.
Symptoms of cinchonism range from mild to severe and can include tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears), headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, visual disturbances, and even auditory and visual hallucinations in severe cases. Additionally, patients may experience confusion or altered mental status, muscle weakness or contractions, and cardiovascular effects such as irregular heartbeats or low blood pressure.
Cinchonism is primarily a result of the toxic effects of quinine on various body systems. The exact mechanisms behind cinchonism are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve interference with neurotransmitters, such as decreased levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and direct cellular toxicity. Individuals with reduced liver or kidney function may be more susceptible to developing cinchonism.
Management of cinchonism involves discontinuing quinine administration and providing supportive care to manage the symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required. As quinine is still used as an antimalarial drug, monitoring for signs and symptoms of cinchonism is crucial during treatment.
It is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of cinchonism and its symptoms to promptly recognize and manage any adverse effects associated with quinine use.
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Poisoning by cinchona or its alkaloids, marked by tinnitus aurium headache, and deafness.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In med., a disturbed condition of the body-caused by overdoses of cinchona or quinine.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CINCHONISM
- xinchonism
- vinchonism
- finchonism
- dinchonism
- cunchonism
- cjnchonism
- cknchonism
- conchonism
- c9nchonism
- c8nchonism
- cibchonism
- cimchonism
- cijchonism
- cihchonism
- cinxhonism
- cinvhonism
- cinfhonism
- cindhonism
- cincgonism
Etymology of CINCHONISM
The word "cinchonism" is derived from the name of the genus Cinchona, which represents a group of flowering plants in the Rubiaceae family. These plants are native to the Andean forest regions of South America and are known for containing alkaloids, particularly quinine. Quinine has been historically used as a treatment for malaria, and its excessive or prolonged consumption led to a condition called cinchonism. The term "cinchonism" was coined in the early 19th century to describe the various symptoms and adverse effects caused by the consumption of quinine.
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