The correct spelling of the medical term "hydrocele spinalis" involves breaking down its components. "Hydrocele" means a fluid-filled sac and "spinalis" refers to the spine. The pronunciation of this word in IPA phonetic transcription is hʌɪdrəʊsiːl spʌɪnəlɪs. The "hy-" is pronounced like "hi", "dr-" is pronounced like "druh", and "-cele" is pronounced like "seal". "Spinalis" is pronounced with emphasis on the "spi-" and "nəl" syllables. With this breakdown, it is easier to spell and understand the proper pronunciation of this medical term.
Hydrocele spinalis, also known as spinal hydrocele, is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the spinal canal. CSF is the clear liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord, providing nutrients and cushioning against injury. In a healthy individual, CSF is produced and absorbed at a balanced rate, maintaining normal pressure within the spinal canal.
However, in cases of hydrocele spinalis, there is an abnormal accumulation of CSF due to a disruption in the production, flow, or absorption of this fluid. This can occur as a result of various factors, including birth defects, spinal cord injury, infection, tumor growth, or obstruction within the spinal canal.
The excessive accumulation of CSF causes the spinal canal to expand, exerting pressure on the surrounding nerve tissue. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including back pain, numbness or weakness in the legs, difficulty walking, bladder or bowel dysfunction, and even loss of sensation below the level of the hydrocele.
Diagnosis of hydrocele spinalis typically involves thorough physical and neurological examinations, as well as imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment options depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition, but they generally involve surgical intervention to correct the underlying problem and drain the accumulated CSF.
Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment of hydrocele spinalis are crucial to prevent further damage to the spinal cord and relieve the associated symptoms. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, including neurologists, neurosurgeons, and radiologists, is often necessary to provide optimal care for individuals with this condition.
Spina bifida.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "hydrocele spinalis" is a combination of two words: "hydrocele" and "spinalis". Here is the etymology of each word:
1. Hydrocele: The word "hydrocele" originates from the Greek roots "hydro-" meaning "water" and "-cele" meaning "tumor" or "swelling". In medical terminology, a hydrocele refers to the accumulation of serous fluid around the testicles or within the scrotum.
2. Spinalis: The word "spinalis" is derived from the Latin word "spina" meaning "thorn" or "spine". In medical terminology, "spinalis" usually refers to the structures related to the spine or spinal cord.
When combined, "hydrocele spinalis" refers to a relatively rare condition where fluid collects within the spinal canal or around the spinal cord, resulting in swelling or a cystic mass.