Abstract
Can a non-tissue be inflamed? “Coelomitis” is a peculiar word that has gained popularity in the last 20 y, almost exclusively in the exotic animal pathology and medicine literature.1,2,5 “Coelom” isn’t listed in the index in histology texts that I can find. Where did this word come from? I first heard it 20 y ago from a wildlife/exotics veterinarian in reference to birds.
All vertebrates have coeloms that are lined by a peritoneum, pleura, etc. 4 Why are we using this particular term for feathered, scaly, or mucus-covered animals and not furred? It doesn’t seem overly popular in the poultry literature. Interestingly enough, many birds have a pleural space as well, which is not obvious. 3
A somewhat related tangent to this is the term “ventriculitis” in the brain, which I think is a misnomer despite its common use in the literature. I’d prefer to see “ventricular ependymitis.” I’ve not seen “ventriculitis” diagnosed in the heart.
“Peritonitis,” “pleuroperitonitis,” and “serositis” seem to be clear, concise, comparative, and correct words. I fail to see a reason for a substitute that is no better, nor even their equal.
If others have thoughts about this subject, I’d be interested in hearing their viewpoints. Invertebrates are another story. It’s an interesting field for such discussions.
I think it’s food for thought to consider the utility of this word before it becomes entrenched.
