Meningeal apoplexy is a medical condition that is characterized by a sudden, severe, and often fatal hemorrhage in the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. The pronunciation of this word is "mɪnɪn'dʒiːl ə'pɒplɛksi," where the stress is on the second syllable of "meningeal." The phonetic symbols in the transcription represent the sounds in the word, with each symbol indicating a specific sound or pronunciation. Proper spelling and pronunciation of medical terms are essential for clear communication between doctors, patients and other healthcare professionals.
Meningeal apoplexy is a medical condition characterized by spontaneous bleeding or hemorrhage within the meninges, which are the protective coverings that surround the brain and spinal cord. This condition is also known as a meningeal hemorrhage.
The meninges consist of three layers: the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater, all of which are responsible for providing support, protection, and nourishment to the central nervous system. Meningeal apoplexy occurs when there is an abnormal rupture or leakage of blood vessels within the meninges, leading to bleeding in this area.
The symptoms of meningeal apoplexy can vary depending on the severity and location of the bleeding. They typically include severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, seizures, changes in consciousness, and even neurological deficits. In some cases, the condition can progress rapidly and lead to a life-threatening situation.
Meningeal apoplexy can be caused by various factors, including head trauma, ruptured aneurysm, arteriovenous malformations, tumors, infections, or blood clotting disorders. The diagnosis is usually made through a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment for meningeal apoplexy often involves addressing the underlying cause of the bleeding, such as surgical repair of an aneurysm or removal of a tumor. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to control pain, reduce inflammation, or prevent complications such as seizures or infections. Close monitoring and supportive care are crucial to ensure optimal recovery.
A. due to hemorrhage from the arteries of the dura mater.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "meningeal apoplexy" is a medical term used to describe a bleeding or hemorrhage within the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. Meningeal: The word "meningeal" is derived from the Latin word "meninx", which means "membrane". It refers to the meninges, which are the three protective layers (the dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater) that cover the central nervous system.
2. Apoplexy: The term "apoplexy" originates from the Greek word "apoplēktikos", meaning "stricken down by violence" or "sudden paralysis". In the medical context, it historically referred to a sudden loss of consciousness or stroke resulting from bleeding in the brain.