iatrogeenis

Iatrogenesis is a term used in medical fields to describe the act of creating a need for a medical solution or treatment out of a situation where no need existed previously. This term is often associated with iatrogenic problems, which are those caused by the medical professional's actions.

In iatrogenesis, a medical condition or problem is artificially created or worsened by the medical treatment itself. This can be due to various reasons, such as a medication having unintended side effects, a surgical procedure causing complications, or a medical device malfunctioning.

Iatrogenesis can occur through various means, including overprescription of medications, surgical errors, or even a misdiagnosis leading to an unnecessary intervention. It can also be a result of an attempt to cure one problem while inadvertently causing another.

Some examples of iatrogenesis include the development of antibiotic resistance, which occurs when overuse of antibiotics leads to the creation of bacteria that are resistant to their effects. Another example is the case of Vioxx, a painkiller that was recalled from market because it increased the risk of heart attacks and strokes in users.

Iatrogenesis is considered a significant issue in medical fields, as it can result in harm to patients and increased healthcare costs. As such, the medical community emphasizes the importance of careful patient monitoring, responsible use of treatments, and adherence to evidence-based practices to minimize the risk of iatrogenesis.