The word "chiloschisis" refers to a birth defect where the lip and palate do not properly fuse during prenatal development. The spelling reflects its Greek roots, with "chilo" meaning lip and "schisis" meaning split. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /ˌkaɪloʊˈskɪsɪs/. As this condition can have significant impacts on a child's ability to speak, swallow, and later in life, socially interact, early detection and treatment are crucial for a positive outcome.
Chiloschisis is a medical terminology that refers to a congenital condition characterized by the abnormal splitting or fissuring of the lip. Specifically, it refers to a cleft or separation of the upper lip. This condition is typically present at birth and occurs due to incomplete fusion of the tissues that form the upper lip during fetal development.
Chiloschisis is commonly referred to as a cleft lip, and it is one of the most prevalent congenital facial anomalies. The severity of the condition can vary, ranging from a small notch in the lip to a complete separation that extends up to the nostril. It can occur unilaterally, affecting only one side of the lip, or bilaterally, affecting both sides.
The exact cause of chiloschisis is not fully understood, but both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. There is also evidence suggesting that certain medications, maternal smoking, and nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy could increase the risk of developing this condition.
Treatment for chiloschisis generally involves surgical intervention to correct the separation of the lip. This typically occurs within the first few months of life to allow for proper feeding and speech development. Additionally, individuals born with chiloschisis often require ongoing care from a multidisciplinary team, including speech therapists, orthodontists, and psychologists, to manage potential associated complications such as speech difficulties, dental issues, and psychological impacts.
In summary, chiloschisis is a congenital condition characterized by an abnormal split or fissure of the upper lip, commonly known as a cleft lip. It requires surgical intervention and multidisciplinary care to address the associated challenges and ensure optimal outcomes for affected individuals.
Harelip.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "chiloschisis" derives from the Greek roots "cheilos" meaning "lip" and "schisis" meaning "cleft" or "split". Therefore, "chiloschisis" refers to a medical condition known as cleft lip, which is a congenital birth defect characterized by a split or opening in the upper lip.