How Do You Spell ANKYLOCHEILIA?

Pronunciation: [ˌaŋkɪlət͡ʃˈe͡ɪli͡ə] (IPA)

Ankylocheilia is spelled with the letter combination 'ch', which is pronounced as a voiceless palato-alveolar affricate [tʃ]. This dental condition refers to the fusion or webbing of the upper and lower lips, leading to a limited opening of the mouth. The term "ankylo" means fused, and "cheilia" refers to the lips. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /æŋkaɪloʊkilaɪə/, with stress on the second syllable. Though the spelling of ankylocheilia may seem complex, its phonetic transcription helps to clarify its pronunciation.

ANKYLOCHEILIA Meaning and Definition

1. Ankylocheilia is a medical term that refers to a condition in which the lips become fused or adhere together. This rare condition occurs due to the formation of excessive scar tissue or due to an abnormality in the development of the lip tissue.

   In ankylocheilia, the fusion of the lips can occur either partially or completely, resulting in difficulty in opening the mouth and performing oral functions such as speaking, eating, and drinking. The fusion can be observed in both the upper and lower lips, affecting either one or both sides of the mouth.

   This condition can occur as a congenital defect, meaning it is present at birth, or it can result from trauma, injury, or certain medical conditions. Ankylocheilia can be associated with other malformations or abnormalities in the face and oral cavity.

   If left untreated, ankylocheilia can lead to significant functional and aesthetic problems. Treatment usually involves surgical intervention to separate the lips and restore normal lip function. This typically includes the excision of scar tissue and reconstruction of the affected area to ensure adequate range of motion and appearance.

   In some cases, ongoing care may be required to manage any complications that arise after the surgical procedure. Moreover, multidisciplinary collaboration with specialists such as oral and maxillofacial surgeons and plastic surgeons may be necessary to address associated facial deformities or functional impairments.

   Overall, ankylocheilia is a condition characterized by the fusion of the lips, which can cause significant challenges in oral functions.

Etymology of ANKYLOCHEILIA

The word "Ankylocheilia" is derived from the Greek roots "ankylo-", meaning "bent" or "crooked", and "cheilos", meaning "lip". In medical terminology, "ankylocheilia" refers to a condition where the lips become abnormally stiff, fixed, or fused together. The term combines these Greek roots to accurately describe the clinical manifestation of the condition.

Similar spelling words for ANKYLOCHEILIA

• ankylochilia,
• Ankylochelie.