HEMIENCEPHALUS Meaning and
Definition
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Hemiencephalus is a medical term used to describe a rare congenital malformation of the brain. It refers to a condition in which only half of the brain has developed properly, resulting in the incomplete formation of the cerebral hemispheres.
The term "hemiencephalus" is derived from the Greek words "hemi," meaning half, and "encephalon," referring to the brain. This condition is typically present at birth and usually occurs due to abnormal development during fetal development. It is considered a severe form of holoprosencephaly, where the brain does not divide into two separate hemispheres as it should.
Individuals affected by hemiencephalus often exhibit various neurological abnormalities that can vary depending on the extent of brain development. These may include cognitive impairments, seizures, vision problems, hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain), and developmental delays. In some cases, physical anomalies such as facial malformations or limb abnormalities can also occur.
Due to the complex nature of this condition, treatment options are limited and often focus on managing symptoms and providing supportive care. Depending on the specific manifestations and associated complications, a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other specialists may be required to address the various challenges faced by individuals with hemiencephalus.
In conclusion, hemiencephalus is a rare and severe brain malformation characterized by incomplete cerebral hemisphere development. It results in a range of neurological abnormalities and physical anomalies, requiring comprehensive medical management.
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A monster with but one cerebral hemisphere.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEMIENCEPHALUS
- hemicephalus
- hemi cephalus
- gemiencephalus
- bemiencephalus
- nemiencephalus
- jemiencephalus
- uemiencephalus
- yemiencephalus
- hwmiencephalus
- hsmiencephalus
- hdmiencephalus
- hrmiencephalus
- h4miencephalus
- h3miencephalus
- heniencephalus
- hekiencephalus
- hejiencephalus
- hemuencephalus
- hemjencephalus
- hemkencephalus
Etymology of HEMIENCEPHALUS
The word "hemiencephalus" is a medical term derived from two Greek roots: "hemi" meaning "half" or "one side" and "encephalus" meaning "brain".
"Hemi" comes from the Greek word "hémi(s)" (ἡμι-), meaning "half" or "one side". It is often used as a prefix in various words to indicate something that is divided or affects only one side.
"Encephalus" comes from the Greek word "énképhalos" (ἐγκέφαλος), which means "brain". This root is frequently used in medical terminology to refer to the brain or brain-related conditions.
