Herpangina

/ˌhɜrpænˈdʒaɪnə/ noun

Definition

A viral infection, usually in children, causing painful sores in the mouth and throat.

Etymology

From Greek 'herpes' (creeping or spreading eruption) combined with 'angina' (Greek angkhone, strangling or throat condition), describing a throat infection with spreading sores.

Kelly Says

Despite its scary name that combines 'herpes' and 'angina,' herpangina is usually caused by harmless Coxsackieviruses and rarely serious, but medical terminology sometimes scares patients more than the actual disease warrants.

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