Diathesis

Diathesis (Gk. disposition) a term applied to a particular constitution of the body in which there is a liability to certain forms of disease. Thus the terms "gouty diathesis," "strumous diathesis" and the like. In the "haemorrhagic diathesis" a tendency to bleeding exists. Thus as the result of a slight wound a considerable loss of blood may occur, profuse bleeding at the nose, too, is a common phenomenon. This curious condition is markedly hereditary and only shows itself as a rule in males, though the diathesis is transmitted as a rule through the mother, she herself remaining unaffected by the condition.