Macrostomia is a medical term that refers to an abnormally large mouth opening. The word is spelled as "mækrəʊstəʊmiə", according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first syllable, "macr", represents the Greek word for "large" or "long". The second syllable, "o", indicates the absence of a consonant between two vowels. The third syllable, "sto", means "mouth" in Greek, and the suffix "-mia" signifies a condition or abnormality. The pronunciation of the word is approximately "mak-roh-stoh-mee-uh".
Macrostomia is a medical term used to describe a congenital or acquired condition characterized by an abnormally large mouth. The word is derived from the Greek terms "macro," meaning large, and "stoma," meaning mouth. In individuals with macrostomia, the dimensions of the oral cavity are significantly larger than those considered normal for their age and sex.
Congenital macrostomia refers to a rare birth defect where the baby is born with an unusually wide mouth due to partial or complete absence of the muscles that control mouth closure. This can lead to functional and aesthetic issues, as well as difficulties with feeding and speech development.
Acquired macrostomia, on the other hand, can occur as a result of trauma, surgery, or certain underlying medical conditions. Traumatic macrostomia may happen due to accidents, burns, or surgical procedures gone wrong. Some medical conditions, such as certain genetic syndromes or conditions affecting the nerves or muscles of the face, can also cause acquired macrostomia.
The treatment of macrostomia depends on its underlying cause and severity. Surgical intervention is often required to repair the defect and improve the function and aesthetics of the mouth. In some cases, physical therapy or other supportive treatments may also be recommended to enhance speech and motor skills. It is important for individuals with macrostomia to receive appropriate medical attention and support to address any associated physical or psychological challenges they may face.
Abnormally large size of the mouth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Macrostomia" is derived from the Greek terms "makros" meaning "large" or "long" and "stoma" meaning "mouth". The prefix "macro-" referring to "large" is often used in medical terminology to indicate an anomaly or condition involving an abnormal size or enlargement. Therefore, "Macrostomia" refers to a medical condition characterized by an unusually large or wide mouth.