SYNENCEPHALOCELE Meaning and
Definition
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Synencephalocele is a medical term that refers to a rare type of cranial neural tube defect characterized by the protrusion of brain tissue and fluid through an opening or defect in the skull. It is considered a severe form of encephalocele, a condition where brain matter extrudes through openings in the skull, but in the case of synencephalocele, there is incomplete fusion of the midline of the brain leading to the more extensive herniation of brain tissue.
This abnormality occurs during fetal development when the neural tube, which ultimately forms the brain and spinal cord, fails to close completely. As a result, the protective layers of bone and soft tissue do not fully develop, and brain tissue can herniate through this defect. The protruding brain matter is often covered by a thin sac filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
Synencephalocele is typically located in the region around the nose and forehead, leading to characteristic facial deformities such as a broad nasal root or split in the face. It may also be associated with other congenital malformations, such as cleft lip or palate.
Treatment for synencephalocele typically involves surgical intervention to remove the protruding brain tissue and close the skull defect. Depending on the size and location of the defect, multiple surgeries may be required to achieve optimal outcomes. The prognosis for individuals with synencephalocele can vary depending on the severity of associated complications and the success of the surgical interventions.
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Protrusion of brain substance through a defect in the skull, with adhesions preventing reduction.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SYNENCEPHALOCELE
Etymology of SYNENCEPHALOCELE
The word "synencephalocele" is derived from Greek and Latin roots.
The prefix "syn-" comes from the Greek word "syn" (σύν), which means "together" or "with".
The root "encephalo-" comes from the Greek word "enkephalos" (ἐγκέφαλος), which means "brain".
The suffix "-cele" comes from the Latin word "cēlum", which means "cavity" or "tumor".
Therefore, "synencephalocele" can be broken down as follows:
- "syn-" (together)
- "encephalo-" (brain)
- "-cele" (cavity or tumor)
Combined, it is a medical term referring to a condition in which there is a protrusion of brain tissue through a defect in the skull.
