ANENCEPHALOUS HYDROCELE Meaning and
Definition
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Anencephalous hydrocele is a medical condition characterized by the presence of excessive fluid accumulation, known as a hydrocele, in the scrotum of a male infant with an absent or severely underdeveloped brain (anencephaly). This condition is extremely rare and is considered a variation of the more common hydrocephalus.
The term "anencephalous" refers to the absence or severe malformation of the brain, specifically the cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum. It is typically caused by a failure of the neural tube to close during fetal development, leading to incomplete brain formation. This major anomaly is typically fatal, and individuals with anencephaly are born with severely impaired cognitive and sensory functions.
A hydrocele, on the other hand, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the scrotal sac, resulting in swelling. In anencephalous hydrocele, the fluid-filled sac develops within the scrotum due to abnormal communication with the peritoneal cavity. This is often caused by abnormalities in the development of the scrotum during embryogenesis.
Due to the presence of anencephaly, anencephalous hydrocele is typically identified prenatally during routine ultrasound examinations. The condition is usually incompatible with life, and most affected infants do not survive long after birth.
Treatment options for anencephalous hydrocele are limited due to the absence or severe malformation of the brain. Palliative care may be provided to ensure the comfort of the infant. Genetic counseling may also be offered to the parents to discuss the underlying causes and potential recurrence risks in future pregnancies.
Etymology of ANENCEPHALOUS HYDROCELE
The term "Anencephalous Hydrocele" is not an actual word with an established etymology. It appears to be a combination of medical terms used to describe two distinct conditions: anencephaly and hydrocele.
1. Anencephaly: The prefix "an-" in anencephaly is derived from the Greek word "an" meaning "without" or "lacking". The word "encephalo" refers to the brain, and the suffix "-aly" indicates a condition or state. Therefore, anencephaly literally means "without a brain" and is a birth defect where a significant portion of the brain and skull is missing in a developing fetus.
2. Hydrocele: The word "hydrocele" comes from the Greek roots "hydro", meaning "water", and "cele", meaning "cavity" or "pouch".
