Pachysomia is a rare medical term that refers to the thickening of the connective tissue surrounding the muscles. The pronunciation of this word, as per the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), is /pækɪˈsoʊmiə/. The initial "p" sound is followed by the short "a" sound, then a "k" sound, and later the "i" sound pronounced as "ee". The stress falls on the second syllable 'so'. The last two syllables of the word are pronounced as 'me-a'. When learning medical terminology, mastering correct pronunciation and spelling can help individuals communicate more effectively with other healthcare professionals.
Pachysomia is a rare medical condition characterized by an abnormal thickening or enlargement of the body's sensory organs, particularly the sense of touch. The term derives from the Greek words "pachy," meaning thick or enlarged, and "somia," referring to the sensory perception or senses.
Individuals affected by pachysomia may experience a heightened sensitivity to touch, including an intensified perception of pressure and pain. This abnormal augmentation of sensory input can lead to discomfort and pain during regular physical contact with objects or surfaces that would otherwise be considered non-painful. It is important to note that this condition primarily affects the sense of touch, while other sensory modalities such as hearing, smell, taste, and vision remain unaffected.
The exact underlying cause of pachysomia is currently unknown due to its rarity, which makes comprehensive study and research challenging. However, it is believed to be a neurological disorder, potentially stemming from abnormal nerve fiber development or processing of sensory information within the somatosensory cortex of the brain.
Due to the limited understanding surrounding pachysomia, treatment options are currently limited and largely focused on managing symptoms. This may involve the use of analgesic medications to alleviate pain and discomfort. Physical therapy techniques, such as desensitization exercises, may also be employed to help individuals adapt to their heightened sensory perception and manage their symptoms effectively.
Pathological thickening of the soft parts of the body, notably in acromegaly.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.