Toxemia
- Pronunciation
- /TOHK-see-mee-uh/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Toxemia
- Plural
- Toxemias
Definition
A condition in which toxins produced by an organism, typically an insect or other arthropod, enter and circulate throughout the host's bloodstream.
Etymology
From Greek 'toxikos', meaning 'poisonous', and 'haima', meaning 'blood'.
Example
Toxemia in humans can be caused by the venom of certain insects, leading to symptoms such as fever and hypotension.
Related Terms
- Phytotoxemia
- Hemiptera
- Plant toxins
Usage Notes
Toxemia is a serious condition that can have significant impacts on the health of the host organism.