ETHMOCEPHALUS Meaning and
Definition
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Ethmocephalus is a rare medical condition characterized by the abnormal fusion and closure of the midline structures of the frontal bone and the ethmoid bone in the skull during embryonic development. In this condition, there is a failure of the normal formation of the bones, leading to the presence of an abnormal bony structure that seals the front of the brain, thereby causing significant craniofacial defects.
This congenital malformation typically manifests as a skull deformity, where the front portion of the brain is encased or protrudes through the underdeveloped or fused bones. It is classified as a type of craniofacial abnormality and is usually observed in newborns. The exact cause of ethmocephalus is yet to be fully understood, although genetic factors are believed to play a role.
Individuals affected by ethmocephalus commonly exhibit a range of symptoms including facial dysmorphism, such as a flattened appearance of the face, widely spaced eyes, and a broad nose. They may also experience neurological issues due to the compression of the brain, including intellectual disability and developmental delays. Additionally, some cases may involve abnormalities in other organs or systems of the body.
Treatment for ethmocephalus usually requires surgical intervention to correct the craniofacial deformities and relieve pressure on the brain. The specific approach and techniques utilized in treatment may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of the affected individual. Additionally, follow-up care and management by a multidisciplinary medical team are essential to address potential complications and support the overall well-being and development of the patient.
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A monster with imperfect and deformed features.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ETHMOCEPHALUS
- wthmocephalus
- sthmocephalus
- dthmocephalus
- rthmocephalus
- 4thmocephalus
- 3thmocephalus
- erhmocephalus
- efhmocephalus
- eghmocephalus
- eyhmocephalus
- e6hmocephalus
- e5hmocephalus
- etgmocephalus
- etbmocephalus
- etnmocephalus
- etjmocephalus
- etumocephalus
- etymocephalus
- ethnocephalus
- ethkocephalus
Etymology of ETHMOCEPHALUS
The word "ethmocephalus" is a medical term used to describe a rare congenital condition where there is a fusion between the ethmoid bone (part of the skull located between the eyes) and the cranium.
Breaking down the word, "ethmo-" refers to the ethmoid bone, while "-cephalus" comes from the Greek word "kephalē", meaning "head" or "skull". Therefore, the etymology of "ethmocephalus" can be understood as a combination of "ethmoid" and "cephalus", directly describing the fusion or connection between the ethmoid bone and the cranium in this condition.
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