MEGALOSYNDACTYLIA Meaning and
Definition
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Megalosyndactylia is a term used in medicine and genetics to describe a rare congenital anomaly characterized by the abnormal development of the hands or feet. It is a combination of the prefix "megal-" (meaning large or exaggerated) and "syndactylia" (which refers to the joining or fusion of digits).
In megalosyndactylia, the affected individual presents with significantly enlarged digits that are also fused together, leading to the appearance of excessively large and webbed hands or feet. This condition can affect both hands, both feet, or a combination of both. The level of severity may vary, with some individuals experiencing a partial fusion of digits, while others display a complete fusion of all the digits in the affected limb.
Megalosyndactylia is typically classified as a congenital anomaly or malformation due to its presence at birth. The exact cause of megalosyndactylia is not well understood, but it is believed to be a result of abnormal gene expression during embryonic development. Certain genetic mutations have been associated with the occurrence of megalosyndactylia, although the condition can also occur sporadically without a significant family history.
Due to the functional impairment caused by the fused and enlarged digits, individuals with megalosyndactylia may face difficulties with activities requiring dexterity, such as gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks. Treatment of megalosyndactylia typically involves surgical interventions aimed at separating the fused digits and improving function and appearance. Rehabilitation and occupational therapy may also be provided to aid in the development of coordination and fine motor skills.
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A condition of webbed or fused fingers or toes of large size.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MEGALOSYNDACTYLIA
- megalosyndactylie
- megalosyndactylic
- m egalosyndactylia
- me galosyndactylia
- meg alosyndactylia
- mega losyndactylia
- megal osyndactylia
- megalo syndactylia
- megalos yndactylia
- megalosy ndactylia
- megalosyn dactylia
- megalosynd actylia
- megalosynda ctylia
- megalosyndac tylia
- megalosyndact ylia
- megalosyndacty lia
- megalosyndactyl ia
- megalosyndactyli a
Etymology of MEGALOSYNDACTYLIA
The word "megalosyndactylia" is a medical term that combines two Greek roots - "megalos" and "syndactylia".
1. "Megalos" (μεγαλος) comes from the Greek word for "large" or "great". It is often used to describe something that is large in size, quantity, or importance.
2. "Syndactylia" (συν-δακτυλιος) comes from the Greek roots "syn" meaning "together" and "daktylos" meaning "finger" or "toe". It refers to a condition where two or more digits are fused together.
Therefore, "megalosyndactylia" is a term used in medicine to describe a condition characterized by the fusion of two or more large digits, typically fingers or toes.
