3 Translations of Atteinte in a Medical Context: French to English Translation Difficulties8/14/2023 In a medical context, the French word atteinte can have several meanings depending on the specific use. As a result, it’s difficult to translate: the translator must pause and consider which meaning is used in the source and must double check their chosen translations during the editing step. The translator cannot simply do a search and replace with one word. It has been one of the most challenging words for me to translate. I’ve even had to explain to the client why I did not consistently use the same English translation in a single document. Below are the main three meanings: 1. Damage/Injury or Impairment: In medical terminology, atteinte can refer to damage, impairment, or disruption of a specific organ, system, or function. For example, atteinte hépatique can mean “liver damage” or “hepatic impairment,” indicating that there is a problem affecting the normal functioning of the liver. As an illustration, the French website Doctissimo explains the term as being a general meaning for various more specific types of liver damage. 2. Involvement or Affectedness: Atteinte can also convey the idea of involvement or affectedness. For instance, if a medical report mentions atteinte articulaire, it implies that a joint is involved or affected by a disease or condition, indicating that there is an issue related to the joint's functioning. 3. Affected Area or Site: Sometimes, atteinte can be used to describe a specific affected area or site within the body. For instance, if a patient has skin lesions due to a dermatological condition, a medical professional might describe the atteinte cutanée, which refers to the affected area on the skin. Overall, the term atteinte in a medical context is versatile and can encompass meanings related to damage, involvement, affectedness, or specific affected areas, depending on the particular medical scenario being discussed. In closing, I’d like to share an example of how one phrase can have any of the above meanings and therefore will require three different translations.
Example: in a dermatological context - atteinte cutanée can mean 1) affected skin or 2) skin involvement or 3) skin damage – 1) The affected skin was treated with a cream. 2) Skin involvement is present in up to one-third of patients. OR 3) Symptoms include… lesions or sores, leading to permanent skin damage and disfigurement. (A great example of this term in French can be found here) Don't forget, if you want to find out more about my services (translation or editing), head to my services page or contact me here.
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