What does the word mucus mean?
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A substance, analogous to vegetable mucilage; from which, however, it differs, by affording subcarbonate of ammonia on distillation. Mucus exudes through the skin, in a state of combination with a peculiar oily matter; and, drying, forms the epidermis. It constitutes, in part the different epidermeous productions, as the hair, nails, wool, and horn of animals, feathers of birds, and scales of fish. It is found at the surface of the mucous membranes, and presents some difference in its composition and properties, according to the particular mucous membrane from which it is obtained. its chief organic constituent is an albuminoid compoud, - mucin, mucosin. Mucus preserves the membranes moist, and in a state best fitted for the performance of their functions. The French give the term glaire to the thick, stringy mucus, secreted by the mucous membranes when in a state of disease. When mucus is examined with the microscope it is found to contain numerous epithelial scales or flattened cells; together with round, granular bodies, commonly termed mucous corpuscles or mucous globules, which are contained in a fluid portion- liquor muci.
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[ Latin] The clear viscid liquid secreted by a mucous membrane. It consists of water containing mucin and inorganic salts with a small amount of suspended matter( epithelial cells, leucocytes, granular débris).
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Usage examples for mucus
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" If you will know, I shall insert this in the throat," he replied, deliberately advancing towards the cot, " and remove the mucus by suction." – Love's Usuries by Louis Creswicke
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When toxins are discharged in mucus through tissues not designed to handle them, the tissues themselves become irritated, inflamed, weakened and thus much more subject to bacterial or viral infection. – How and When to Be Your Own Doctor by Dr. Isabelle A. Moser with Steve Solomon
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Sometimes the fit of coughing is interrupted for a minute or two, so that a little rest is obtained; and is then succeeded by another fit of coughing and another hoop, until after a succession of these actions the paroxysm terminates by vomiting, or a discharge of mucus from the lungs, or both. – The Maternal Management of Children, in Health and Disease. by Thomas Bull, M.D.
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