Chondrodystrophy (/ˌkɒndroʊˈdɪstroʊfi/) is a medical condition characterized by abnormal development of cartilage and bone growth, leading to shortened limbs and abnormal skeletal structure. The word is derived from "chondro-" meaning cartilage, "-dystrophy" meaning abnormal growth, and "-trophy" meaning nourishment. The correct spelling of this condition is quite complicated due to the use of Greek roots and medical jargon. Pronouncing it correctly requires a close examination of its individual sound components using International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription.
Chondrodystrophy is a medical condition characterized by abnormal growth and development of the cartilage, resulting in various skeletal abnormalities. The term "chondrodystrophy" is derived from the Greek words "chondros" meaning cartilage and "dystrophy" meaning abnormal growth or development.
Individuals with chondrodystrophy often exhibit characteristic physical features, such as a short stature, disproportionately short limbs, and a large head relative to the body size. This condition typically occurs due to a genetic mutation affecting the production or structure of cartilage, impairing its ability to form properly. As a result, bones may be shorter, thicker, or irregularly shaped.
There are several types of chondrodystrophy, including achondroplasia, hypochondroplasia, and more. Achondroplasia is the most common form, accounting for approximately 70% of cases, and is characterized by shortening of the long bones in the arms and legs and a characteristic facial appearance, including a prominent forehead and a flattened bridge of the nose.
While chondrodystrophy is typically present from birth, the severity of symptoms can vary widely among affected individuals. Treatment for chondrodystrophy often focuses on managing the associated complications, such as orthopedic issues and breathing problems, as well as providing supportive care to improve quality of life.
In summary, chondrodystrophy is a condition characterized by abnormal cartilage development leading to skeletal abnormalities, resulting in a distinctive physical appearance and potential health complications.
Achondroplasia, a disturbance in the normal process of ossification in cartilage, dating from intrauterine life, resulting in arrested growth of the long bones and a condition of stocky dwarfism; the head is large, the nates and abdomen are prominent, the fingers are divergent (see cut under trident hand), and the extremities are disproportionately short in comparison with the torso.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "chondrodystrophy" is derived from two Greek roots: "chondro", meaning "cartilage", and "dystrophy", meaning "abnormal development".
The term is commonly used in medical and scientific contexts to describe various genetic disorders that affect the development of cartilage and result in abnormal growth and skeletal deformities.