HYDROMENINGOCELE Meaning and
Definition
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Hydromeningocele is a medical term used to describe a rare congenital condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) between the meninges (the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and the overlying skin. The condition is usually present at birth and typically results from a defect in the development of the neural tube during fetal development.
In hydromeningocele, the excess fluid causes a sac-like protrusion on the affected region of the skull or spinal column, which may vary in size. The fluid-filled sac can put pressure on surrounding tissues and structures, potentially causing a range of neurological symptoms. Common signs and symptoms associated with hydromeningocele may include cranial enlargement, bulging fontanelles (soft spots on an infant's head), developmental delays, motor impairments, hydrocephalus (abnormal accumulation of CSF in the brain), and, in severe cases, complications such as neurological deficits and paralysis.
Diagnosis of hydromeningocele is typically made through medical imaging tests, such as ultrasound during pregnancy or MRI scans after birth. Treatment options depend on the severity and location of the hydromeningocele, and may involve surgical intervention to remove the sac, repair the underlying defect, and restore normal CSF flow. In some cases, a shunt may be required to drain excess fluid and manage hydrocephalus if present.
Overall, hydromeningocele is a rare condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate management to optimize outcomes, alleviate symptoms, and minimize potential complications.
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Protrusion of the meninges of brain or spinal cord through a defect in the bony wall, the sac so formed containing fluid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYDROMENINGOCELE
- gydromeningocele
- bydromeningocele
- nydromeningocele
- jydromeningocele
- uydromeningocele
- yydromeningocele
- htdromeningocele
- hgdromeningocele
- hhdromeningocele
- hudromeningocele
- h7dromeningocele
- h6dromeningocele
- hysromeningocele
- hyxromeningocele
- hycromeningocele
- hyfromeningocele
- hyrromeningocele
- hyeromeningocele
- hydeomeningocele
- hyddomeningocele
Etymology of HYDROMENINGOCELE
The word "hydromeningocele" is derived from several Greek roots.
1. "Hydro" comes from the Greek word "hudōr" (ὕδωρ), meaning "water" or "fluid".
2. "Meningo" refers to the meninges, which are the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It is derived from the Greek word "meninx" (μῆνιγξ), meaning "membrane".
3. "Cele" is derived from the Greek word "kele" (κήλη), which means "tumor" or "swelling".
Therefore, "hydromeningocele" is a term that combines these roots to describe a medical condition characterized by an abnormal collection of fluid within the meninges, resulting in a swelling or cyst-like structure.
