STEATITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Steatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the adipose tissue, commonly found in fish, especially in those that rely on a high-fat diet. This condition is also referred to as "fat necrosis" or "yellow fat disease." Steatitis can occur due to the excessive intake of unsaturated fats, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids, which become rancid and cause inflammatory responses in the adipose tissues.
The inflammation in steatitis can lead to the deposition of fibrous tissues and abnormal fat accumulation, resulting in the formation of yellowish nodules in the affected tissues. These nodules can be found in various parts of the fish's body, including the muscle tissues, liver, and organs. This condition primarily affects fish species that predominantly feed on oily and fatty diets, such as pelagic fish like mackerel, tuna, and salmon.
Steatitis is generally considered a non-infectious disease and is often associated with improper handling and storage of fish. It can also be caused by nutritional imbalances, such as inadequate vitamin E intake, which serves as an antioxidant and protects against fat oxidation. The symptoms of steatitis include yellowish nodules, inflammation, necrosis, and potential internal organ damage.
Prevention of steatitis involves proper fish handling and storage methods, ensuring that fish are not exposed to excessive heat or oxygen, which can promote fat oxidation. Additionally, a well-balanced diet with appropriate levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids and sufficient vitamin E can help minimize the risk of developing steatitis.
Common Misspellings for STEATITIS
Etymology of STEATITIS
The word "steatitis" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from two Greek words: "stear", meaning "fat" or "tallow", and "itis", meaning "inflammation". Therefore, "steatitis" refers to inflammation of fat or adipose tissue.
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