PLICA VILLOSA Meaning and
Definition
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Plica villosa is a medical term that refers to the appearance of prominent and elongated folds on the surface of the tongue. This condition is also commonly known as hairy tongue due to the hairy or furry texture these elongated papillae give the tongue. These folds are composed of keratin, a tough protein that forms the outer layer of the skin, hair, and nails.
Plica villosa is a benign and usually painless condition that is characterized by excessive growth and accumulation of epithelial cells on the surface of the tongue. This buildup occurs when the normal shedding of dead cells from the tongue is disrupted, causing a thickening of the papillae. This alteration results in the elongation and discoloration of the affected areas, which can range from yellowish to dark brown or black.
Multiple factors are associated with the development of plica villosa, including poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, chronic alcohol consumption, certain medications such as antibiotics or antifungals, and a systemic condition known as xerostomia (dry mouth). Additionally, the condition is more commonly observed in individuals who have compromised immune systems or who are undergoing treatments that affect the immune system.
Treatment for plica villosa usually involves ensuring proper oral hygiene practices, which include regular brushing of the tongue to remove the excessive accumulation of cells. In severe cases, a healthcare professional may recommend gentle scraping or the use of certain medications that can help promote the shedding of excess cells.
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One of the ridges of the mucous membrane of the stomach in the region of the pylorus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLICA VILLOSA
- plica villnsa
- plica villo3a
- plica villoca
- plica villoqa
- plica villora
- plica villosi
- plica villose
- plica villosc
- plicavillowsa
- pl ica villosa
- pli ca villosa
- plic a villosa
- plica v illosa
- plica vi llosa
- plica vil losa
- plica vill osa
- plica villo sa
- plica villos a
Etymology of PLICA VILLOSA
The term "plica villosa" is derived from two Latin words: "plica" meaning "fold" or "wrinkle" and "villosa" meaning "hairy" or "shaggy". In medical terminology, it refers to a condition characterized by the presence of excessive and elongated folds on the surface of the tongue.
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