HOLORRHACHISCHISIS Meaning and
Definition
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Holorrhachischisis is a term used in medical terminology to describe a severe congenital anomaly that affects the development of the central nervous system, specifically the spinal cord. It is often classified as a type of spina bifida, which refers to a group of neural tube defects.
In holorrhachischisis, the spinal cord fails to separate or divide into two distinct halves, resulting in a complete lack of midline closure and fusion. This condition can be observed throughout the entire length of the spinal cord, from the cervical to the sacral region. The defect is typically characterized by a visible open lesion on the back, exposing the neural tissue.
Individuals with holorrhachischisis may experience a range of neurological symptoms due to the extensive damage to the spinal cord. These symptoms may include paralysis or weakness in the limbs, impaired sensation, loss of bladder and bowel control, and potential complications related to hydrocephalus if fluid buildup occurs in the brain.
Holorrhachischisis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Treatment usually involves surgical intervention to repair and close the open neural tube defect, although the outcomes can vary depending on the extent and severity of the damage. Specific management strategies may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including neurosurgery, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care to address the potential long-term effects on the individual's quality of life.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HOLORRHACHISCHISIS
- hoelorrhachischisis
- holowrrhachischisis
- holoarrhachischisis
- h olorrhachischisis
- ho lorrhachischisis
- hol orrhachischisis
- holo rrhachischisis
- holor rhachischisis
- holorr hachischisis
- holorrh achischisis
- holorrha chischisis
- holorrhac hischisis
- holorrhach ischisis
- holorrhachi schisis
- holorrhachis chisis
- holorrhachisc hisis
- holorrhachisch isis
- holorrhachischi sis
- holorrhachischis is
- holorrhachischisi s
Etymology of HOLORRHACHISCHISIS
The word "holorrhachischisis" is a medical term that combines several Greek roots.
- "Holos" (ὅλος) means "whole" or "entire".
- "Rhachis" (ῥάχις) means "spine" or "backbone".
- "Schisis" (σχίσις) means "split" or "cleft".
Therefore, "holorrhachischisis" can be understood as a condition where there is a complete split or cleft in the spine or backbone.
