The word "Hydrosyringomyelia" is a medical term used to describe a condition where fluid accumulates in the spinal cord. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as "hī-drō-sī-riŋ-gō-mī-ē-lē-ə". The word is made up of several Greek and Latin roots, with "hydro" referring to water or fluid, "syringo" meaning tube or pipe, "myelo" relating to the spinal cord, and "ia" indicating a medical condition. Overall, the spelling of this word reveals its complex etymology and specialized meaning.
Hydrosyringomyelia is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal formation of a fluid-filled cavity or cavity system within the spinal cord. This condition occurs as a result of a hindrance or disruption in the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the spinal cord. CSF normally circulates within the central nervous system and plays a crucial role in protecting and nourishing the spinal cord and brain.
The formation of the fluid-filled cavity, known as a syrinx, gradually expands over time and exerts pressure on the surrounding spinal cord tissues. This can lead to various neurological symptoms and complications, including pain, weakness, loss of sensation, muscle wasting, and abnormal reflexes in the affected areas. The severity and extent of the symptoms depend on the location and size of the syrinx, as well as the underlying cause.
Hydrosyringomyelia can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired due to a traumatic injury, spinal cord tumor, or inflammatory conditions. It is often associated with another medical condition called Chiari malformation, in which the cerebellar tonsils extend downward into the spinal canal, causing an obstruction and disruption of CSF flow.
Diagnosis of hydrosyringomyelia typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history assessment, neurological examination, and neuroimaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment options may include surgical interventions aimed at restoring normal CSF circulation and relieving pressure on the spinal cord. Additionally, symptom management, physical therapy, and pain control measures may be incorporated into the comprehensive management of hydrosyringomyelia.
The presence of abnormal spaces in the spinal cord with distention of the central canal by the cerebrospinal fluid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hydrosyringomyelia" is derived from Greek roots. Here is the breakdown:
1. "Hydro": This comes from the Greek word "hudor" (ὕδωρ), which means "water". In medical terminology, "hydro-" refers to water or fluid.
2. "Syringo": This comes from the Greek word "syrinx" (σῦριγξ), which means "tube" or "pipe". In medical terminology, "syringo-" usually indicates the presence of a cyst or cavity.
3. "Myelia": This comes from the Greek word "muelos" (μυελός), which means "marrow" or "spinal cord". In medical terminology, "-myelia" refers to a disorder or condition affecting the spinal cord.