CRETINISM Meaning and
Definition
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Cretinism is a medical condition that is primarily caused by a deficiency in thyroid hormone during early childhood. It is characterized by stunted physical and mental development, resulting in profound retardation and disabilities.
Cretinism is usually caused by either a congenital defect that impairs the production or function of thyroid hormones or by severe iodine deficiency in the diet. The lack of thyroid hormone affects the normal growth and development of various body systems, including the brain, bones, and muscles.
Physical manifestations of cretinism include short stature, a large, protruding tongue, a puffy face, and a stocky build. These individuals may also have delayed or impaired motor skills, speech difficulties, and intellectual disabilities. Additionally, individuals with cretinism often experience hearing and vision problems, as well as heart and digestive disorders.
Treatment for cretinism typically involves lifelong hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormones. Early intervention is crucial to mitigate the long-term consequences of the condition on physical and cognitive development. Adequate dietary intake of iodine through supplements or a balanced diet that includes iodized salt can prevent cases related to iodine deficiency.
In summary, cretinism is a congenital condition primarily occurring due to a deficiency in thyroid hormones, resulting in severe physical and mental retardation. Effective management involves hormone replacement therapy and, in cases of iodine deficiency, dietary modifications.
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Congenital myxedema, occurring both sporadically and endemically; it appears during the first three years of life and results in an arrest of bodily growth and of mental development, the subjects of the disease being dwarfed idiots.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A peculiar kind of idiocy, attended with deformity, that prevails in districts about the Alps and other mountains.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CRETINISM
Etymology of CRETINISM
The word "cretinism" is derived from the French word "crétin", which was originally used to refer to a person who was mentally and physically disabled. It originates from the Swiss Alpine dialect, particularly spoken in the Valais region of Switzerland, where cases of severe congenital hypothyroidism (a thyroid hormone deficiency) were widely observed.
It is believed that the term "crétin" has its roots in the Latin word "christianus", meaning "Christian". In the Middle Ages, the Valais region of Switzerland had a significant population of beggars, many of whom were intellectually disabled individuals. These beggars were often referred to as "crestiaun", which eventually evolved into "crétin".
In the past, individuals with cretinism were commonly associated with the idea that their condition was a punishment from God or the result of a lack of faith.
Similar spelling words for CRETINISM
- croatian,
- creation,
- cretin,
- creeden,
- croton,
- creationism,
- creatin,
- cretan,
- Chretien,
- cretinous,
- craton.
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