Atresia Hymenalis is a medical condition that refers to the complete closure or absence of the hymen, a membrane that surrounds the vaginal opening. The spelling of this term may seem daunting, but it can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. "ˌætɹiʒə haɪməˈneɪlɪs" indicates the stress on the second and fifth syllables of the word. Understanding the phonetics behind medical terminology can facilitate communication between healthcare professionals and patients.
Atresia hymenalis refers to a medical condition characterized by the presence of a hymen that has an imperforate or closed opening, obstructing the passage of menstrual blood from the uterus during menstruation. The hymen is a thin membrane of tissue located at the opening of the vagina, typically covering the vaginal opening partially or completely.
In the case of atresia hymenalis, the hymen does not have an opening or has a very small opening that prevents menstrual blood from being discharged from the body, leading to the accumulation of blood in the vagina. This can result in symptoms such as cyclic abdominal pain, absence of menstrual periods (primary amenorrhea), and occasionally, a palpable mass in the lower abdomen. It is typically noticed during adolescence when menstruation should begin.
Atresia hymenalis is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth, and its exact cause is not well understood. It may be attributed to abnormal development of the hymen during fetal development. If left untreated, the condition can lead to complications like hematocolpos (accumulation of blood in the vagina), hematometra (retention of blood in the uterus), and even renal failure due to the pressure exerted on the urinary tract.
Treatment for atresia hymenalis involves a minor surgical procedure called hymenotomy, which involves creating an opening in the hymen to allow for the normal passage of menstrual blood. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and has a high success rate, effectively alleviating the symptoms associated with atresia hymenalis.
Closure of the vagina by an imperforate hymen.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "atresia hymenalis" is composed of two etymological components:
1. Atresia: The word "atresia" has its roots in the Greek language. It comes from the Greek term "a-" meaning "without" or "not" and "tresis" meaning "perforation" or "passage". Therefore, "atresia" can be understood as the lack of perforation or closure of a bodily passage.
2. Hymenalis: The word "hymenalis" is derived from the Latin word "hymen", which refers to the thin membrane that partially covers the opening of the vagina. The suffix "-alis" is a Latin suffix that is commonly used to form adjectives, indicating "relating to" or "pertaining to".