The word "myelopathy" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /maɪəˈlɒpəθi/. This word is derived from the Greek words "myelo" and "pathos" which mean "marrow" and "disease" respectively. Myelopathy is a neurological condition that affects the spinal cord, causing symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and pain. Spelling words like myelopathy correctly is important to ensure clear communication in the medical field. Accurate spelling helps prevent misunderstandings and ensure proper treatment for patients.
Myelopathy is a medical term that refers to a disorder or a disease affecting the spinal cord, which is a long bundle of nerves that extends from the base of the brain down the back. It typically involves damage, inflammation, or compression of the spinal cord, resulting in various neurological symptoms.
Myelopathy can be caused by a range of conditions, including degenerative diseases, such as spinal stenosis or spondylosis, traumatic injuries, tumors, infections, and autoimmune disorders. The specific symptoms and their severity vary depending on the underlying cause and the location of the damage within the spinal cord.
Common signs of myelopathy include muscle weakness, numbness or tingling sensations, difficulty with coordination and balance, impaired fine motor skills, problems with walking or a sense of heaviness or stiffness in the limbs. In some cases, individuals may experience bladder or bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, or even paralysis.
Diagnosis of myelopathy involves reviewing the patient's medical history, conducting a physical examination, and often imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment of myelopathy depends on the underlying cause and may involve conservative measures such as pain management, physical therapy, and mobility aids. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or remove tumors.
The outlook for individuals with myelopathy varies depending on the cause, severity, and timeliness of treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention generally offer a better prognosis, while delayed or inadequate treatment may result in long-term disability.
1. Any disease of the spinal cord. 2. A disease of the myeloid tissues.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "myelopathy" is derived from two Greek roots: "myelo" and "pathos".
The root "myelo" (μυελός) refers to the spinal cord or bone marrow. It comes from the Greek word "myelos", which means "marrow".
The root "pathos" (πάθος) refers to a disease or disorder. It comes from the Greek word "pathos", which means "suffering" or "passion".
Therefore, "myelopathy" combines these two roots to form a term that describes any pathological condition or disorder affecting the spinal cord or bone marrow.