Micromelia is a medical term used to describe a rare condition characterized by unusually short limbs. The spelling of "micromelia" can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "mi-" is pronounced /maɪ/, the second syllable "-cro-" is pronounced /krəʊ/, and the third syllable "-melia" is pronounced /mɛliə/. The IPA allows us to accurately transcribe the sounds of each syllable, resulting in the correct spelling of this complex medical term.
Micromelia is a medical term used to describe a rare congenital condition characterized by the abnormal shortening of the limbs during fetal development. It is a type of skeletal dysplasia that affects the formation and growth of long bones in the arms and/or legs. The condition is typically diagnosed through prenatal ultrasound.
Individuals with micromelia have disproportionately short limbs compared to their trunk and head. This abnormal limb shortening can range from mild to severe. In some cases, the limbs may be significantly underdeveloped, making them much shorter than the average length for a person of the same age and sex. This limb deformity can lead to difficulties with mobility, coordination, and everyday activities.
Micromelia may occur as an isolated condition or be associated with other genetic abnormalities or syndromes. It can be inherited in an autosomal recessive or autosomal dominant manner, depending on the specific genetic mutation involved.
Treatment for micromelia depends on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. While there is no cure, management may include orthopedic interventions, physical therapy, assistive devices, and surgical procedures to improve limb function and overall quality of life.
In summary, micromelia is a rare congenital condition characterized by the abnormal shortening of the limbs during fetal development, which can affect mobility and everyday activities.
Achondroplasia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "micromelia" is derived from the Greek words "mikros", meaning small, and "melos", meaning limb.