anasarca

American  

[an-uh-sahr-kuh] / ˌæn əˈsɑr kə /

noun

Pathology.

1. a pronounced, generalized edema.

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anasarca British  

/ ˌænəˈsɑːkə /

noun

1. pathol a generalized accumulation of serous fluid within the subcutaneous connective tissue, resulting in oedema

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Other Word Forms

• anasarcous
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of anasarca

1350–1400; Middle English (< Middle French ) < Medieval Latin, representing Greek phrase anà sárka literally, throughout the body

Compare meaning

How does anasarca compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• anasarca vs. edema
• anasarca vs. ascites

Example Sentences

This form of the disease begins in the lower extremities, and is rarely attended with strong signs of local excitement so obvious in anasarca of the idiopathic kind.

From North American Medical and Surgical Journal, Vol. 2, No. 3, July, 1826 by Bache, Franklin

This is found to be the case especially in anasarca after scarlet fever.

From North American Medical and Surgical Journal, Vol. 2, No. 3, July, 1826 by Bache, Franklin

When hydrothorax occurs after scarlatina, and is combined with anasarca, its course is generally rapid, and the cure difficult; partaking, as it often does, of the two-fold state of debility and excitement.

From North American Medical and Surgical Journal, Vol. 2, No. 3, July, 1826 by Bache, Franklin

In anasarca, an error is sometimes committed, especially by young practitioners, of estimating the degree of danger, and the necessity for active treatment, by the single consideration of the extent of the œdematous swelling.

From North American Medical and Surgical Journal, Vol. 2, No. 3, July, 1826 by Bache, Franklin

In general, the practice of administering drastic purgatives is more serviceable in hydrothorax, and especially in anasarca, or in idiopathic serous inflammation of the peritoneum.

From North American Medical and Surgical Journal, Vol. 2, No. 3, July, 1826 by Bache, Franklin