Idiopathic

usgb/ˌɪdiəˈpæθɪk/
adjective

A term used to describe a disease or condition that arises spontaneously or for which the cause is unknown.

The patient was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, meaning the cause of the disease was unknown.
Visual representation of "idiopathic" - A term used to describe a disease or condition that arises spontaneously or for which the cause is unknown.

Usage tips

Neutral

idiopathic arthritis, idiopathic epilepsy, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "idiopathic"
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Medical Terminology

'Idiopathic' is primarily used in medical contexts for conditions without a known cause.

Illustration for Medical Terminology
The doctor explained that the idiopathic nature of her illness made treatment complex.
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Unknown Origin

In various discussions, 'idiopathic' can mean something that doesn't have a clear source.

Illustration for Unknown Origin
Symptoms can be idiopathic, complicating the diagnosis process.
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Precision in Language

Using 'idiopathic' indicates a specific type of medical classification.

Illustration for Precision in Language
Instead of saying the cause is unknown, saying it's idiopathic is more precise.
Visual representation of the word "Idiopathic"

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