Anhydromyelia is a medical term that describes the absence of cerebrospinal fluid in the spinal cord. The word "anhydromyelia" is spelled as /ænhaɪdroʊmaɪˈiːliə/ in IPA phonetic transcription, which can aid in properly pronouncing and understanding the word. The prefix "an-" means absence or lack, "hydro-" refers to water or fluid and "-myelia" relates to the spinal cord, thus making up the meaning of the word. Correct spelling and pronunciation of medical terms are crucial for effective communication in the healthcare industry, promoting patient safety and precise diagnoses.
Anhydromyelia is a medical term that refers to the absence or lack of fluid in the spinal cord. It is derived from the Latin words "an-", meaning without, "hydor", meaning water, and "myelos", meaning spinal cord.
The spinal cord is a crucial part of the central nervous system, responsible for transmitting nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. It is surrounded and protected by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which acts as a cushion and shock absorber. CSF also nourishes and provides necessary substances to the spinal cord.
In the case of anhydromyelia, there is a defect in the production or absorption of cerebrospinal fluid, leading to a deficiency or absence of this fluid within the spinal cord. This condition can be congenital, meaning a person is born with it, or it can be acquired later in life as a result of injury, infection, or other underlying conditions.
The lack of CSF within the spinal cord can lead to various symptoms, depending on the location and extent of the affected area. Common symptoms may include pain, sensory disturbances, weakness, muscle atrophy, and problems with coordination. Diagnosis typically involves medical imaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the spinal cord and identify the absence of fluid.
Treatment options for anhydromyelia can vary depending on the specific cause and symptoms. In some cases, surgical interventions may be recommended to address the underlying issue and restore normal fluid circulation within the spinal cord. Other treatment approaches may focus on managing the symptoms and maximizing the individual's quality of life.
Deficiency in the spinal fluid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word anhydromyelia is derived from the Greek roots an- meaning without, hydor meaning water, myelos meaning spinal cord, and the suffix -ia indicating a condition or state.
Therefore, the word anhydromyelia literally means a condition without water in the spinal cord.