How Do You Spell HOLOSCHISIS?

1. Holoschisis is a medical term that refers to a rare congenital birth defect characterized by the incomplete closure or fusion of the neural tube during fetal development. The neural tube is the embryonic precursor to the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. In cases of holoschisis, the neural tube fails to completely close, resulting in a full-length, open midline defect that extends from the cranial region down to the lower spine.

   This condition usually occurs during the first month of pregnancy when the neural tube fails to form correctly, leading to the absence of two parallel halves of the neural tube structure. As a result, affected individuals may present with severe malformations and impairments of the central nervous system, leading to various neurological abnormalities.

   Due to the extensive nature of the defect, holoschisis typically results in profound disabilities, affecting motor and sensory functions, as well as cognitive abilities. The severity of the condition can vary, and the prognosis for affected individuals depends on the extent of the neural tube defect and associated complications.

   Holoschisis is considered a complex condition that requires multidisciplinary interventions involving neurosurgery, rehabilitative therapy, and ongoing medical support. Early diagnosis through prenatal ultrasound examination and subsequent management can help optimize outcomes and improve the quality of life for individuals with this rare birth defect.

2. Simple cleavage of the cell, amitosis.

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

Common Misspellings for HOLOSCHISIS

The word "holoschisis" is derived from two Greek roots: "holo" and "schisis".

The Greek root "holo" (ὅλος) means "whole" or "entire". It is often used as a prefix in English words to indicate that something is complete or encompasses the entirety of a concept.

The Greek root "schisis" (σχίσις) means "a split" or "a division". It is commonly used in medical terminology to describe conditions or abnormalities related to the splitting or division of body parts.

Therefore, "holoschisis" combines these two roots to form a word that refers to a complete or whole splitting or division. In medical terms, it specifically refers to a congenital defect in which a structure or organ fails to fuse or close properly during embryonic development.