LEUCOMYELITIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Leucomyelitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the white matter in the spinal cord. The term is derived from the combination of "leuco," which refers to white, and "myelitis," which denotes inflammation of the spinal cord. It is a rare disorder that disrupts the normal functioning of the central nervous system.
The condition typically occurs as a result of an autoimmune response, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy cells within the spinal cord. This leads to inflammation, which can cause various symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and paralysis in the affected areas of the body. Leucomyelitis can also lead to disturbances in sensory perception, muscle coordination, and bowel and bladder control.
The exact cause of leucomyelitis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While there is no definitive cure for leucomyelitis, treatment often focuses on managing the symptoms and reducing the inflammation. This may include the administration of anti-inflammatory medications and immunosuppressants to suppress the immune response.
A prompt diagnosis and medical intervention are crucial in managing leucomyelitis to prevent further neurological damage. This condition requires specialized medical attention from neurologists and other healthcare professionals experienced in the treatment of central nervous system disorders. Ongoing physical therapy and rehabilitation may also be recommended to help improve mobility and enhance the patient's quality of life.
-
Inflammation of the white substance or conducting tracts of the spinal cord.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LEUCOMYELITIS
- keucomyelitis
- peucomyelitis
- oeucomyelitis
- lwucomyelitis
- lsucomyelitis
- lducomyelitis
- lrucomyelitis
- l4ucomyelitis
- l3ucomyelitis
- leycomyelitis
- lehcomyelitis
- lejcomyelitis
- leicomyelitis
- le8comyelitis
- le7comyelitis
- leuxomyelitis
- leuvomyelitis
- leufomyelitis
- leudomyelitis
- leucimyelitis
Etymology of LEUCOMYELITIS
The word "leucomyelitis" is a medical term derived from Greek roots. It consists of two parts: "leuco" and "myelitis".
1. "Leuco" comes from the Greek word "leukos" (λευκός), meaning "white".
2. "Myelitis" comes from the Greek word "myelos" (μυελός), which refers to the spinal cord.
Therefore, "leucomyelitis" can be broken down as "leuco" (white) + "myelitis" (inflammation of the spinal cord). It describes a condition characterized by an inflammation that affects the spinal cord and results in white matter involvement.
