Epispadia is a medical condition where the urethra opens on the upper surface of the penis or clitoris instead of the tip. The spelling of the word "Epispadia" is pronounced as /ɛpɪspeɪdiə/. The word is a combination of the Greek words "epi," meaning above or on top, and "spadia," meaning a sword or knife. The word's spelling is derived from its Greek roots and is commonly used in medical terminology to describe this rare congenital defect.
Epispadia is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal opening in the urethra, in which the opening is located on the upper side of the penis (in males) or in the upper part of the vulva (in females). This condition is considered to be a rare congenital anomaly that occurs during fetal development.
In a normal anatomical structure, the urethra opens at the tip of the penis (in males) or at the vaginal opening (in females). However, in individuals with epispadia, the urethral opening is misplaced and can be found anywhere from the base of the penis to the glans of the clitoris.
Epispadia can lead to various complications related to the urinary system. These may include urinary incontinence, difficulty in controlling urination, and urinary tract infections. Additionally, affected individuals may experience other associated abnormalities such as malformation of the bladder, the presence of a double urethra, or even spinal cord defects.
Treatment for epispadia typically involves surgical intervention to correct the abnormality and restore normal urination. The specific procedure will depend on the severity and extent of the condition, as well as the individual's overall health. Surgical techniques aim to reconstruct the urethra and close the abnormal opening. In some cases, multiple surgeries may be required to achieve the desired outcome.
Epispadia is a complex congenital condition with varying degrees of severity and associated complications. Early diagnosis and appropriate medical management are crucial in order to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.
Epispadias.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "epispadia" originates from the Greek roots "epi" meaning "above" or "upon" and "spadon" meaning "a crack or fissure". Therefore, the term "epispadia" essentially means "a fissure on top" or "a split on the upper surface". It is specifically used to describe a rare congenital disorder where the urinary opening is located on the upper (dorsal) surface of the penis in males, or on the upper (ventral) surface of the urethra in females.