How Do You Spell ATHELIA?

Pronunciation: [aθˈiːli͡ə] (IPA)

Athelia is a term used to describe the absence of nipples on the chest. The word is pronounced /əˈθiːliə/ (uh-THEE-lee-uh) and is spelled with the letters A-T-H-E-L-I-A. The "th" sound in the second syllable is represented by the combination "th" which creates a voiced dental fricative sound as in "this" or "them". The "ia" at the end is pronounced as "ee-uh". This word is commonly used in medical contexts to describe a developmental abnormality in breast tissue.

ATHELIA Meaning and Definition

1. Athelia is a medical term that refers to a rare congenital abnormality characterized by the absence or complete absence of one or both nipples. Derived from the Greek words "a," meaning absence, and "thēlē," meaning nipple, Athelia is considered a developmental anomaly of the breasts. It is typically present from birth and is often associated with other breast malformations, such as polymastia (the presence of additional nipples) or amastia (the complete absence of breast tissue).

   Athelia is primarily caused by a failure of embryonic development during the early stages of pregnancy, specifically in the formation of the mammary ridge or milk lines. This condition is usually not accompanied by significant health risks or functional limitations, as it mainly affects the cosmetic appearance of the breasts.

   However, Athelia can potentially be a sign of an underlying genetic disorder or syndrome, such as Poland syndrome or ectodermal dysplasia, which may involve additional impairments or affect other parts of the body. Therefore, a thorough medical evaluation, including diagnostic tests and examinations, may be necessary to rule out associated conditions or investigate further if necessary.

   In summary, Athelia is an uncommon congenital condition characterized by the absence of one or both nipples. Although it is generally a benign condition, it is important to consider the possibility of underlying genetic syndromes and seek appropriate medical advice for further assessment and care.

2. Absence of the nipples.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ATHELIA

• athalia
• Athila
• zthelia
• sthelia
• wthelia
• qthelia
• afhelia
• aghelia
• ayhelia
• a6helia
• a5helia
• atbelia
• atnelia
• atjelia
• atuelia
• atyelia
• athdlia
• athrlia
• ath4lia
• ath3lia

Etymology of ATHELIA

The word "Athelia" is derived from the Greek words "a" meaning "without" and "thelē" meaning "nipple" or "teat". In medical terminology, Athelia refers to a congenital absence of one or both nipples.