合併症

• Reading: がっぺいしょう
• Romaji: gappeishou
• Kanji breakdown: 合 (gou/ga) — combine, fit; 併 (hei) — together, merge; 症 (shou) — symptom, condition
• Pronunciation: /ɡap.peː.ɕoː/

Meaning

Complication; secondary condition arising from a disease or its treatment.

A medical noun referring to an additional health problem that develops as a consequence of an existing illness, surgery, or medical treatment. Frequently discussed in the context of diabetes (糖尿病の合併症), post-surgical risks, and chronic diseases. A key term in doctor-patient conversations about treatment risks.

Examples

1. 糖尿病の合併症として、目や腎臓に影響が出ることがある。 Complications from diabetes can affect the eyes and kidneys.
2. 手術後の合併症を防ぐために、定期的に検査を受けてください。 Please get regular check-ups to prevent post-surgical complications.
3. 合併症のリスクについて、医師から詳しく説明を受けた。 I received a detailed explanation from my doctor about the risk of complications.

Usage Guide

Context: medical, hospitals, health education

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 合併 (gappei, combination/merger) + 症 (shou, symptom/condition). Literally 'a condition that combines with' the primary illness.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal