Etymed
hemorrhagic diathesis
Definition
A constitutional tendency to bleed excessively or easily, often due to a coagulation disorder or vascular fragility
Clinical context
A 28-year-old woman presents to the emergency department after sustaining a large hematoma following a minor fall. She has a history of frequent nosebleeds and excessive bleeding during dental procedures. Her family history reveals similar bleeding tendencies in her mother and maternal uncle. Physical examination shows no signs of active bleeding, but multiple petechiae are noted on her lower extremities.
Mnemonic
Hemorrhagic diathesis = HEMORRHOIDS (bleeding easily) + DIATHESIS (tendency)
These morphemes also unlock…
- hemorrhag/o — bleeding; hemorrhage
- ic — pertaining to
- diathes/o — constitutional tendency; predisposition