Definition

Relating to the presence of bacteria in the blood.

Example

The patient was diagnosed as bacteremic after the blood tests showed bacteria in his bloodstream.

Conversation

I read that some patients can become bacteremic after certain infections.

Really? That sounds serious; what does it mean exactly?

It means bacteria are present in the bloodstream, which can lead to more complications.

Wow, I didn't know that. It's a good reminder to stay healthy!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bacteremic → It is formed from "bacterium" (from Greek "bakterion", meaning rod or staff, referring to the shape of certain bacteria) and "-emic" (from Greek "haima", meaning blood). The word "bacteremic" refers to the presence of bacteria in the blood.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bacterium' as the 'rod' shaped organism and '-emic' relating to 'blood' — so bacteremic means having bacteria in the blood.

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