komplikaation

Komplikation, or komplikaation, is an undesirable development that arises during the course of a disease or after a medical intervention and is not an inherent part of the underlying condition. Complications can result from disease progression, treatment effects, or interactions with other health factors and may alter prognosis, required care, or duration of illness.

In medical practice, complications are described as acute or chronic, minor or major, and either disease-related or iatrogenic (caused by medical care). They can involve infection, bleeding, organ dysfunction, respiratory or cardiovascular problems, wound issues, thromboembolism, or adverse drug reactions, among others.

Risk factors include advanced age, comorbidity, malnutrition, emergency procedures, longer procedures, immune suppression, and inadequate monitoring. Preventive strategies focus on risk assessment and may include vaccination when appropriate, prophylactic antibiotics, thromboembolism prophylaxis, meticulous sterile technique, glycemic control, early mobilization, and close postoperative surveillance.

Detection and management depend on the context. Diagnosis relies on clinical observation, laboratory tests, and imaging, followed by targeted treatment to address the complication while adjusting the primary therapy if needed. The goal is to prevent escalation and minimize harm while maintaining appropriate care for the original condition.

Etymology and usage: the term derives from Latin complicare, “to fold together,” reflecting how a complication diversifies the course of illness or treatment. In many languages, it is synonymous with the English term complication.