tetany

[ tet-n-ee ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a state marked by severe, intermittent tonic contractions and muscular pain, due to abnormal calcium metabolism.

tetany

/ ˈtɛtənɪ /

noun

1. pathol an abnormal increase in the excitability of nerves and muscles resulting in spasms of the arms and legs, caused by a deficiency of parathyroid secretion

Word History and Origins

Origin of tetany¹

From the New Latin word tetania, dating back to 1880–85. See tetanus, -y ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of tetany¹

C19: from French tétanie. See tetanus

Example Sentences

When tetany follows operations for goitre it is due to the removal of these glands.

From Project Gutenberg

Lastly, in the tetany of children, or that following operations on the thyreoid gland, the spasms are of a jerking character, affect chiefly the hands and fingers, and yield to medicinal treatment.

From Project Gutenberg

Trousseau's sign is the production of tetany by applying firm and prolonged pressure to the brachial nerve in the upper arm.

From Project Gutenberg

In man, a condition of nervous over-excitability has been described as tetany.

From Project Gutenberg