The word "detritus" can be found in a variety of situations, starting with the doctor’s office and ending with the study of a textbook on the ecology of aquatic ecological systems. Let's figure out what may be hiding behind this term. Indeed, detritus is a word with many meanings.
To begin with, what is common to all phenomena that are denoted by this term. Detritus is the decay product of any tissue (usually organic).
Most often, the term is found in medicine, so we will pay more attention to this issue. But first things first.
What is detritus from the point of view of the life process in aquatic ecological systems?
Despite the importance of this component in aquatic ecosystems, it has not been well studied, so it cannot be given a precise and comprehensive definition.
In general, the word “detritus” means particles of dead organics found in water with microorganisms that live on these particles (fungi, protozoa, etc.). It turns out that detritus is a kind of miniature ecosystem, consisting of living and non-living organisms. Naturally, it functions according to its rather complicated laws. And for the existence of any body of water (no matter a small pond or ocean), detritus is very important.
This can complete the decoding of this term from a non-medical side, since such a process will still be interesting to narrow specialists, and move on to what many people may face in everyday life.
Detritus in medicine: what you need to know
This aspect is more important for ordinary people, therefore, we will consider it from several sides. By studying medical reference books, you can find out that detritus is a product of the breakdown of body tissues. Also, this term refers to scraping, which is collected from the skin of animals artificially infected with smallpox. It is necessary for the production of vaccines that protect against this disease.
Quite often in urology you can hear such a diagnosis as necrotic detritus - this is, in fact, the designation of the strongest inflammation of the organs of the genitourinary system, which occurs with detachment of the epithelium. Having heard this diagnosis, do not panic: competent treatment, including surgical treatment, will help to localize the process, excising dead tissue, but preserving the patient’s life and health.
Many are interested in the answer to the question of what is detritus in a smear. This is completely natural! After all, most often such smears are given by a gynecologist. Having found the word "detritus" in the conclusion, do not be upset. In fact, you just learn that in your body there are remnants of the cervical epithelium and already dead flora, characteristic of the female reproductive system. Nothing wrong with that. And the doctor will undoubtedly confirm this.
Another point when it comes to detritus is the interpretation of the results of the coprogram. In this case, detritus is not a pathology at all. Rather, confirmation of the normal functioning of the digestive system. If there are no references to mucus and white blood cells in the analysis results, then everything is in order. In the case when these elements are, it can be assumed that inflammation occurs in the body. And without the help of a qualified doctor can not do.
Conclusion
Now you know how to decipher a given word depending on the context of its use. So you are safe from many unpleasant moments!