Definition

A medical condition characterized by inflammation in the area of the kidney where urine collects before it moves to the bladder, often due to a bacterial infection.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with pyelitis after she complained of severe back pain and fever.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of pyelitis?

No, what is it?

It's an inflammation of the kidney's pelvis, usually caused by an infection.

That sounds serious; I hope it’s not common!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pyelitis is formed from "pyelo-" (from Greek "pyelos", meaning basin or pelvis) and "-itis" (from Greek "itis", meaning inflammation). The term refers to the inflammation of the renal pelvis, which is the basin-like structure in the kidney.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pyelo-' as referring to the 'basin' of the kidney, and '-itis' meaning 'inflammation'. So, pyelitis is the inflammation of the kidney basin.

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