How Do You Spell POLYGYRIA?

Pronunciation: [pˌɒlɪd͡ʒˈɪɹi͡ə] (IPA)

Polygyria is a medical term referring to a condition characterized by an excessive number of folds (gyri) on the cerebral cortex. The word is spelled as ['pɑlɪdʒaɪrɪə] in IPA phonetic transcription, with the initial syllable pronounced as "pahl-i" with an "ah" sound, followed by "dʒ" as "j" sound, and "aɪr" as "eye-er." The spelling of the word reflects its Greek origins, with "poly" meaning many, and "gyria" referring to folds on the cortex. Patients with polygyria may experience seizures and developmental delays.

POLYGYRIA Meaning and Definition

1. Polygyria is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by abnormal brain development in which the cerebral cortex displays excessive folding or convolutions. It is a type of cortical malformation that occurs during fetal development, resulting in an irregular and excessive number of gyri, the ridges or folds on the surface of the brain.

   The excessive folding of the cerebral cortex in polygyria leads to a thickened and irregular appearance, causing the brain to have a wrinkled or lumpy appearance instead of the usual smooth surface. This abnormality affects the organization and structure of the brain, potentially leading to various neurological and developmental complications.

   Polygyria can be classified into different types based on the severity and extent of the abnormal folding. It can occur as an isolated malformation or be associated with other brain abnormalities or genetic syndromes.

   Manifestations of polygyria can vary depending on the individual and the extent of brain involvement. Common symptoms include cognitive delays, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, seizures, and neurological impairments. The severity of symptoms can also vary, ranging from mild to severe.

   Polygyria is typically diagnosed through medical imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, which reveal the abnormal folding pattern in the brain. Treatment options for polygyria are limited and primarily focus on managing the associated symptoms and complications, such as seizures, through medication and supportive therapies.

2. The presence of more than the usual number of convolutions on the surface of the brain.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for POLYGYRIA

• polygyeia
• polygy4ia

Etymology of POLYGYRIA

The word "polygyria" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots.

The first part "poly-" is from the Greek word "polys", which means "many" or "much". It is commonly used as a prefix to indicate "many" or "multiple" in various contexts.

The second part "-gyria" is derived from the Greek word "gyros", which means "circle" or "circuit". In medical terminology, "-gyria" is often used to refer to abnormal folding or convolution of the brain's surface.

Therefore, combining these roots, "polygyria" refers to a condition characterized by an excessive number of folds or convolutions on the surface of the brain.