ARACHNOID DROPSY Meaning and
Definition
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Arachnoid dropsy, also known as arachnoid cyst or leptomeningeal cyst, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of a fluid-filled sac or cyst within the arachnoid membrane of the brain. The arachnoid membrane is a thin, transparent layer that covers the brain and spinal cord, acting as a protective barrier.
The cyst that develops in arachnoid dropsy contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is the fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord. This cyst can vary in size and location within the arachnoid membrane, and it may put pressure on adjacent structures, leading to various neurological symptoms.
Symptoms of arachnoid dropsy can include headaches, seizures, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, changes in behavior or personality, developmental delays (in children), and difficulties with motor or cognitive functions. However, it is important to note that some individuals with arachnoid dropsy may not experience any noticeable symptoms, and the cyst may only be discovered incidentally during routine medical imaging.
The causes of arachnoid dropsy are not fully understood, and it can occur spontaneously or due to certain underlying conditions or injuries. Treatment options for arachnoid dropsy involve surgical intervention to either drain the cyst or remove it entirely, depending on its size, location, and the severity of symptoms. Regular monitoring and follow-up examinations may be necessary to assess the progression of the cyst and to manage any associated symptoms.
Etymology of ARACHNOID DROPSY
The word "arachnoid" in "arachnoid dropsy" refers to the arachnoid membrane, which is one of the three layers of the meninges, the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. The term "arachnoid" comes from the Greek word "aráchnē", meaning "spider's web", which describes the delicate and web-like appearance of the arachnoid membrane.
The term "dropsy" is an older and less commonly used term for edema, which refers to abnormal swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues. The word "dropsy" has its roots in the Latin word "hydropsis" and the Greek word "hydrosis", both meaning "water" or "fluid". It was commonly used in medical terminology in the past to describe various conditions characterized by swelling due to fluid retention.
