How Do You Spell EXTERNAL HYDROCEPHALUS?

Pronunciation: [ɛkstˈɜːnə͡l hˈa͡ɪdɹə͡ʊsfˌaləs] (IPA)

External hydrocephalus is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space, that is, the space between the brain and the skull. The word "hydrocephalus" is pronounced as /ˌhaɪdrəʊˈsɛfələs/ (hy-druh-SEF-uh-luhs) in IPA phonetics. Its spelling can be broken down as "hydro-", meaning water, and "-cephalus", meaning head. The word "external" in external hydrocephalus refers to the location of the fluid accumulation outside the ventricles of the brain. This condition can occur in infants and adults and may require surgical intervention to alleviate symptoms.

EXTERNAL HYDROCEPHALUS Meaning and Definition

1. External hydrocephalus refers to a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the spaces surrounding the brain, known as the subarachnoid spaces. While hydrocephalus typically refers to the excessive accumulation of CSF within the ventricles of the brain, external hydrocephalus primarily affects the subarachnoid spaces. This condition is commonly found in infants and is often associated with macrocephaly, a condition characterized by abnormally large head size.

   External hydrocephalus occurs due to an imbalance between the production and absorption of CSF, leading to an increase in fluid within the subarachnoid spaces. This surplus of CSF puts pressure on the brain, potentially leading to symptoms such as developmental delays, motor difficulties, seizures, and cognitive impairment. It is crucial to differentiate external hydrocephalus from other forms of hydrocephalus, as the treatment approach may vary.

   Diagnosing external hydrocephalus involves a comprehensive medical evaluation, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI. Treatment primarily involves managing the symptoms through interventions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medications to control seizures if present.

   While external hydrocephalus may cause concern for parents and caregivers, it is important to consult with healthcare professionals to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs. With appropriate management, many individuals with external hydrocephalus can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their developmental milestones.

2. An accumulation of fluid in the subarachnoid spaces of the brain.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for EXTERNAL HYDROCEPHALUS

• external hydrocephaluc
• external hydrocephaluq
• external hydrocephalur
• e xternal hydrocephalus
• ex ternal hydrocephalus
• ext ernal hydrocephalus
• exte rnal hydrocephalus
• exter nal hydrocephalus
• extern al hydrocephalus
• externa l hydrocephalus
• external h ydrocephalus
• external hy drocephalus
• external hyd rocephalus
• external hydr ocephalus
• external hydro cephalus
• external hydroc ephalus
• external hydroceph alus
• external hydrocepha lus
• external hydrocephal us
• external hydrocephalu s

Etymology of EXTERNAL HYDROCEPHALUS

The word hydrocephalus is derived from the Greek words hydro meaning water and kephalos meaning head. Hydrocephalus can be translated as water on the brain or water in the head.

The term external hydrocephalus combines hydrocephalus with the adjective external. In this context, external relates to the location of the excess cerebrospinal fluid buildup outside the brain ventricles, typically in the subarachnoid space, which is the area between the brain and the skull. This condition is also known as benign extra-axial fluid of infancy or external non-communicating hydrocephalus.