APOPLEXIA MYELITICA Meaning and
Definition
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Apoplexia myelitica refers to a medical condition characterized by the sudden onset of neurological symptoms resulting from the disruption of blood supply to the spinal cord. It is also known as spinal cord infarction or spinal stroke.
In this condition, a blockage or restriction in the blood vessels supplying the spinal cord occurs, causing a reduced blood flow to the affected region. The compromised blood flow leads to the death of spinal cord cells and subsequent damage to the nervous tissue. The main cause of apoplexia myelitica is often attributed to embolism or thrombosis, where a blood clot or other substances obstruct the blood vessels.
The symptoms of apoplexia myelitica may vary depending on the location and extent of the spinal cord damage. Common clinical manifestations include sudden and severe back pain, muscle weakness or paralysis, loss of sensation, alterations in bowel and bladder control, and impaired reflexes. These symptoms typically appear acutely, often within a few hours or days.
Diagnosis of apoplexia myelitica involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, which can help detect any abnormalities or ischemic lesions in the spinal cord.
Treatment for apoplexia myelitica primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause, relieving symptoms, and managing complications. Therapeutic approaches may include anticoagulant medications to prevent further clot formation, pain medications, physical rehabilitation, and supportive care to minimize disability and improve quality of life.
Overall, apoplexia myelitica is a relatively rare but serious condition that can lead to significant neurological impairment due to insufficient blood supply to the spinal cord.
Etymology of APOPLEXIA MYELITICA
The term "Apoplexia myelitica" is made up of two components: "apoplexia" and "myelitica".
1. "Apoplexia" is derived from the Latin word "apoplexia" which was borrowed from the Greek word "apoplēxia". It originally referred to the sudden loss of consciousness or the paralysis caused by a stroke or hemorrhage in the brain. The word is a combination of "apo" (meaning "away" or "off") and "plexis" (meaning "a stroke" or "a blow"). Over time, the meaning of "apoplexia" expanded to include similar conditions affecting other parts of the body.
2. "Myelitica" is derived from "myelitis", which originates from the Greek word "muelos" meaning "marrow" and the suffix "-itis" indicating inflammation.
