The word "microcardius" is spelled with a combination of three roots: "micro" meaning small, "cardi" referring to the heart, and "us" indicating something that possesses the qualities of the previous two roots. The correct pronunciation can be represented through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription as /maɪkroʊˈkɑrdiəs/. This scientific term denotes a small heart or a heart-shaped structure, commonly referred to in medical language. The proper spelling and pronunciation of "microcardius" are crucial in medical terminology to ensure the effective communication of important concepts among healthcare professionals.
Microcardius is a medical term that refers to a congenital heart anomaly characterized by an abnormally small size of the heart, particularly the left ventricle. This condition is classified as a type of hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which encompasses a group of structural abnormalities resulting in underdevelopment of the left side of the heart. Microcardius is a rare condition and can lead to significant health complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
In individuals with microcardius, the left ventricle, which is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the body, does not develop to its normal size or function properly. This deficit in the left ventricle can result in diminished blood flow and reduced oxygen supply to the body, causing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, poor growth, and bluish tint of the skin.
The exact cause of microcardius is unknown; however, it is believed to be related to abnormal fetal development during the early stages of pregnancy. This condition is typically diagnosed prenatally using fetal echocardiography, a specialized ultrasound test that examines the cardiac structures of the developing fetus. Treatment options for microcardius often include surgical interventions, such as heart reconstruction or heart transplantation, depending on the severity of the condition.
In summary, microcardius is a rare congenital heart anomaly characterized by an exceptionally small left ventricle. It can lead to serious health complications if left untreated and typically requires surgical intervention for optimal management.
A monster with abnormally small heart.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.