MYELOMENINGITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Myelomeningitis, also known as meningomyelitis, is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of both the spinal cord and the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The term "myelomeningitis" originates from the combination of "myelo," referring to the spinal cord, and "meningitis," denoting the inflammation of the meninges.
This condition is often caused by an infection, most commonly bacteria or viruses, that infiltrate the spinal cord and meninges. The inflammation resulting from this invasion can lead to a range of symptoms, such as neck stiffness, severe headache, fever, muscle weakness or paralysis, numbness, and altered sensation. In some cases, myelomeningitis may also cause disturbances in bladder or bowel control.
The diagnosis of myelomeningitis usually involves a thorough medical examination, including the evaluation of clinical symptoms, a detailed patient history, and specialized tests such as cerebrospinal fluid analysis or imaging studies like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment for myelomeningitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In bacterial cases, antibiotics are typically prescribed, while antiviral medications may be used for viral infections. Additionally, supportive care, including rest, pain management, and hydration, is vital for the comfort and recovery of the patient.
Since myelomeningitis involves inflammation of critical components of the central nervous system, prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent potential complications such as permanent neurological damage or even death.
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Inflammation of the spinal cord and its membranes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MYELOMENINGITIS
- nyelomeningitis
- kyelomeningitis
- jyelomeningitis
- mtelomeningitis
- mgelomeningitis
- mhelomeningitis
- muelomeningitis
- m7elomeningitis
- m6elomeningitis
- mywlomeningitis
- myslomeningitis
- mydlomeningitis
- myrlomeningitis
- my4lomeningitis
- my3lomeningitis
- myekomeningitis
- myepomeningitis
- myeoomeningitis
- myelimeningitis
- myelkmeningitis
Etymology of MYELOMENINGITIS
The word "myelomeningitis" is derived from Greek and Latin roots.
- "Myelo" comes from the Greek word "myelos" meaning "marrow" or "spinal cord".
- "Mening" comes from the Latin word "meninx" meaning "membrane" or "cover".
- "Itis" is a suffix in Greek and Latin used to indicate inflammation.
Therefore, "myelomeningitis" combines these roots to describe an inflammation (-itis) of the spinal cord (myelo-) and its surrounding membranes (mening-).
