The word "encephalophyma" refers to a rare medical condition involving the growth of a benign tumor in the brain. The word is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription as "ɛnˌsɛfələˈfaɪmə". It contains the prefix "encephalo-", meaning "related to the brain", and the suffix "-phyma", meaning "tumor". The use of the silent "h" in "encephalo" follows the common practice in medical terminology of retaining Latin or Greek spellings. The correct spelling of this word is important in medical contexts to ensure clarity and accuracy in communication.
Encephalophyma is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the abnormal growth or swelling of the brain tissues. It is a rare disorder that involves the progressive enlargement of the brain, which can result in various neurological symptoms and complications.
Encephalophyma can be classified as either primary or secondary. Primary encephalophyma refers to cases where the abnormal growth originates within the brain itself, often due to conditions such as brain tumors or vascular malformations. Secondary encephalophyma, on the other hand, occurs when the brain tissues become affected by an underlying systemic disease, infection, or inflammation.
The symptoms of encephalophyma can vary and may include headaches, seizures, cognitive and behavioral changes, visual disturbances, increased intracranial pressure, and focal neurological deficits. The severity and progression of symptoms can depend on the underlying cause and the specific areas of the brain affected by the abnormal growth.
Diagnosis of encephalophyma typically involves a combination of medical history analysis, neurological examination, imaging studies (such as magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography scans), and sometimes brain biopsy. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may include surgical intervention, radiation therapy, and medication to manage symptoms and control the abnormal growth.
While encephalophyma is a rare condition, it is important to seek medical attention if any concerning neurological symptoms arise. A prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and management of this condition.
An intracranial tumor; a brain-tumor.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "encephalophyma" is a medical term derived from two Greek roots:
1. "Encephalo-" is derived from the Greek word "enkephalos" (ἐγκέφαλος), meaning "brain". This root often appears in medical terminology related to the brain, such as "encephalitis" (inflammation of the brain) or "encephalopathy" (disease or disorder of the brain).
2. "-Phyma" comes from the Greek word "phyma" (φῦμα), which means "swelling" or "tumor". This root is used to describe an abnormal growth or mass in various medical terms, such as "lipoma" (a benign fatty tumor) or "fibroma" (a benign fibrous tumor).