accelerated

Definition & Etymology

In medicine, accelerated describes a process, disease, or physiological response that occurs at a rate faster than its normal or expected course. It signifies a rapid progression or intensification of pathological changes. (from Latin accelerāre, “to hasten”).

Clinical Significance

The term is clinically significant as it signals a critical worsening in a patient’s condition, often a transition to a more aggressive disease stage. Identifying an accelerated phase is crucial for prognosis and necessitates urgent changes in treatment. In oncology, it can mark when a chronic illness becomes acute. In cardiology, an accelerated rhythm may be a benign reperfusion arrhythmia or a sign of pathology. Its use highlights a clinically important deviation from a condition’s typical timeline.

Related Conditions

This modifier qualifies specific diagnoses. Accelerated phase of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a transitional state before the blast phase. Accelerated hypertension involves severely high blood pressure causing acute organ damage. Accelerated idioventricular rhythm (AIVR) is a ventricular rhythm often seen after myocardial reperfusion. Other examples include accelerated graft rejection in transplant medicine, a rapid immune response, and accelerated silicosis, a fast-developing lung disease from intense silica exposure.

Key Takeaways

• Rapid Progression: The term signifies a process or disease developing much faster than its typical course.
• Prognostic Importance: An accelerated state indicates a worsening prognosis, requiring urgent and more aggressive management.
• Broad Application: Used across specialties like oncology (CML), cardiology (AIVR), and immunology (graft rejection).

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.