SPONDYLOSCHISIS Meaning and
Definition
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Spondyloschisis is a rare medical condition that primarily affects the fetal development of the spine. It is characterized by the failure of the neural tube to close properly during the early stages of embryonic development. The neural tube is a structure that eventually forms the spinal cord and the brain.
The term "spondyloschisis" is derived from the Greek words "spondylo," meaning spine or vertebra, and "schisis," meaning fissure or split. Therefore, it describes the condition where there is a split or gap in the vertebrae of the spine.
This condition can lead to serious spinal abnormalities, including exposed neural tissue, spinal cord malformations, or even complete absence of the spinal cord. It often affects the lower thoracic and lumbosacral regions of the spine.
Spondyloschisis is typically diagnosed prenatally during ultrasound examinations or after birth through physical examination and imaging tests. Treatment options for spondyloschisis depend on the severity of the condition and can include surgical intervention to repair the defect, orthopedic devices to support the spine, or management of associated complications such as hydrocephalus.
Overall, spondyloschisis is a complex congenital abnormality that requires multidisciplinary medical care. With appropriate interventions, individuals with spondyloschisis may achieve improved quality of life and functionality. However, the prognosis can vary depending on the extent of neurological damage and the presence of associated anomalies.
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Congenital fissure of one or more of the vertebral arches, rhachioschisis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPONDYLOSCHISIS
Etymology of SPONDYLOSCHISIS
The word "spondyloschisis" is a medical term used to describe a congenital condition where there is a cleft or fissure in the spine. The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. "Spondylo-" comes from the Latin word "spondylus", which means "vertebra" or "spine".
2. "-schisis" is derived from the Greek word "skhízein", which means "to split" or "to cleave".
Therefore, "spondyloschisis" combines elements from Latin and Greek to describe the condition of a split or cleft spine.
