IVORY EXOSTOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Ivory exostosis, also known as an ivory osteoma, is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal growth of bone within a specific location in the body. This localized bony overgrowth typically develops on the surface of long bones or within the skull, forming a hard, ivory-like mass.
The term "ivory" refers to the color and texture of the protrusion, resembling the smooth, white appearance of elephant ivory. "Exostosis" denotes a bony outgrowth or protuberance that arises from the surface of a bone. In the case of an ivory exostosis, this growth is dense and compact, resembling a small, benign tumor.
The exact cause of ivory exostosis remains unclear, although it is believed to be a result of genetic factors and possibly environmental triggers. The condition is often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during routine X-rays or medical imaging. However, in some cases, ivory exostosis can lead to complications, such as pain, limited range of motion, or nerve compression if the growth puts pressure on surrounding structures.
Treatment for ivory exostosis is typically conservative, involving monitoring the growth and managing any associated symptoms. Surgical removal may be considered if the mass becomes symptomatic, poses a risk to adjacent structures, or causes functional impairment. Nevertheless, the decision for surgery must be carefully weighed against the potential risks, as complete removal can be challenging due to the dense nature of the mass.
In summary, ivory exostosis refers to the abnormal growth of hard bone, resembling ivory, on the surface of long bones or within the skull. While often asymptomatic, it may require surgical intervention in certain cases.
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A small, rounded, eburnated tumor springing from a bone, usually one of the cranial bones.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for IVORY EXOSTOSIS
- uvory exostosis
- jvory exostosis
- kvory exostosis
- ovory exostosis
- 9vory exostosis
- 8vory exostosis
- icory exostosis
- ibory exostosis
- igory exostosis
- ifory exostosis
- iviry exostosis
- ivkry exostosis
- ivlry exostosis
- ivpry exostosis
- iv0ry exostosis
- iv9ry exostosis
- ivoey exostosis
- ivody exostosis
- ivofy exostosis
- ivoty exostosis
Etymology of IVORY EXOSTOSIS
The word "ivory exostosis" can be broken down into two parts: "ivory" and "exostosis".
1. Ivory: The term "ivory" is derived from the Old French word "yvoire", which came from the Latin "ebur". It originally referred to the hard, creamy-white substance found in elephant tusks, but it is now used more broadly to include the teeth or bones of certain other animals as well. The Latin word "ebur" itself may have roots in the Egyptian word "ab". Over time, "ivory" has come to represent something rare, smooth, white, or resembling the material ivory.
2. Exostosis: The term "exostosis" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "exo" meaning "outward" or "external", and "osteon" meaning "bone".
