PROATLAS Meaning and
Definition
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Proatlas is a medical term which refers to a congenital skeletal anomaly occurring in the upper cervical spine (neck region), specifically involving the first cervical vertebra, also known as the atlas. The atlas is responsible for supporting and connecting the skull with the spinal column. In the case of proatlas, there is an abnormality in the formation of the atlas bone, resulting in an altered anatomy.
Typically, the atlas consists of a bony ring with two prominent arches and lateral masses that articulate with the occipital bone of the skull and the axis (second cervical vertebra) respectively. However, in proatlas, there is a malformation or additional bone present, leading to an atypical structure of the atlas. This abnormality may present as an accessory bony process or fusion with other nearby vertebrae.
Proatlas is a rare condition that is typically detected during medical imaging studies such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The clinical significance of proatlas varies depending on the degree of abnormality and associated symptoms. In some cases, it may be asymptomatic and incidentally discovered, while in others it can cause pain, restricted neck motion, nerve compression, or even impact the stability of the upper cervical spine.
Treatment options for proatlas will depend on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced by the individual. Non-surgical approaches such as physical therapy, pain management, and neck immobilization may be employed. In more severe cases, surgical intervention might be necessary, aiming to alleviate nerve compression and restore stability and functionality to the affected area.
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A vertebral element intercalated between the atlas and occipital bone in Crocodilia, traces of which are sometimes seen as an anomaly on the under surface of the occipital bone in man.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PROATLAS
- oroatlas
- lroatlas
- -roatlas
- 0roatlas
- peoatlas
- pdoatlas
- pfoatlas
- ptoatlas
- p5oatlas
- p4oatlas
- priatlas
- prkatlas
- prlatlas
- prpatlas
- pr0atlas
- pr9atlas
- proztlas
- prostlas
- prowtlas
- proqtlas
Etymology of PROATLAS
The word "Proatlas" is a combination of two components: "pro-" and "atlas".
The prefix "pro-" is derived from the Greek word "pro", meaning "before" or "in front of". It is commonly used as a prefix to indicate something that is earlier, preceding, or taking priority over something else.
The term "atlas" has its roots in Greek mythology. Atlas was a Titan who was punished by Zeus to hold the heavens on his shoulders for eternity. Later, the term "atlas" came to be associated with a collection of maps or charts due to the depiction of the Titan holding the celestial spheres.
In the context of the word "Proatlas", the prefix "pro-" suggests that it is something that comes before or precedes the concept of an "atlas". It implies that "Proatlas" may refer to an earlier, more foundational version or concept of an atlas.
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