METAPLASTIC OSSIFICATION Meaning and
Definition
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Metaplastic ossification refers to a pathological process in which non-osseous tissues are converted into bone. This condition involves the abnormal formation of bone in tissues that do not normally possess this structure. Typically, this process is a response to injury or inflammation, where the body attempts to repair the affected area by converting soft tissues into bone tissue.
Metaplastic ossification can occur in various locations within the body, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. It is often associated with conditions such as trauma, chronic inflammation, infections, and genetic disorders. The exact mechanisms leading to this phenomenon are not fully understood but may involve abnormal signaling pathways and genetic factors.
Clinically, metaplastic ossification can lead to pain, restricted movement, and deformities in the affected area. Additionally, it can cause functional impairments, such as limiting joint mobility or compressing nearby structures. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging techniques, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
Treatment options for metaplastic ossification depend on the severity and location of the condition. Conservative measures may include pain management, physiotherapy, and immobilization. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the abnormal bone tissue or release compressed structures.
Overall, metaplastic ossification is an abnormal process characterized by the formation of bone in non-osseous tissues, leading to functional impairments and deformities.
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The formation of bony tissue in various soft structures, such as the muscles, lungs, brain, tumors, etc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METAPLASTIC OSSIFICATION
- m etaplastic ossification
- me taplastic ossification
- met aplastic ossification
- metapl astic ossification
- metapla stic ossification
- metaplas tic ossification
- metaplast ic ossification
- metaplasti c ossification
- metaplastic o ssification
- metaplastic os sification
- metaplastic oss ification
- metaplastic ossi fication
- metaplastic ossif ication
- metaplastic ossifi cation
- metaplastic ossific ation
- metaplastic ossifica tion
- metaplastic ossificat ion
- metaplastic ossificati on
- metaplastic ossificatio n
Etymology of METAPLASTIC OSSIFICATION
The etymology of the word "metaplastic ossification" can be broken down as follows:
1. Metaplastic: The term "meta-" comes from the Greek word "meta", meaning "beyond" or "after". In medical terminology, "meta-" typically denotes a change or transformation. "Plastic" comes from the Greek word "plastikos", meaning "capable of being shaped or molded". Thus, "metaplastic" refers to a process of transformation or change. It implies a shift in the normal developmental pathway.
2. Ossification: The word "ossification" comes from the Latin word "os", meaning "bone". "Ossification" refers to the process of formation and development of bone tissue.
Therefore, "metaplastic ossification" refers to the abnormal or atypical formation of bone tissue, beyond the usual or expected developmental process.
