How Do You Spell HYDRANENCEPHALY?

1. Hydranencephaly is a rare condition that describes a severe neurological disorder characterized by the absence or near-total absence of the cerebral cortex (the outer part of the brain) and its replacement by cerebral spinal fluid. In this condition, the hemispheres of the brain are completely or almost completely missing, leaving behind only a thin layer of brain tissues surrounding the fluid-filled cavities.

   This condition is believed to result from damage to the brain's blood supply during early stages of development, usually before birth. It can be caused by various factors such as genetic abnormalities, infections, or prenatal injuries. Hydranencephaly is different from anencephaly, as the latter refers to the absence of both the cerebral hemispheres and the brainstem, while hydranencephaly specifically relates to the loss of the cerebral cortex.

   Individuals with hydranencephaly often exhibit severe developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and a variety of neurological symptoms. These symptoms may include vision and hearing problems, seizures, muscle stiffness or weakness, and difficulties with movement and coordination. Due to the severity of the condition, individuals with hydranencephaly may have a shortened life expectancy and require comprehensive medical care and support throughout their lives.

   Diagnosis of hydranencephaly is typically performed using prenatal ultrasound or imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after birth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for hydranencephaly, and treatment mostly focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care to improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

2. Internal hydrocephalus, distention of the ventricles of the brain by an accumulation of fluid.

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

Common Misspellings for HYDRANENCEPHALY

The word "Hydranencephaly" is derived from two roots: "hydr-" and "-encephaly".

1. "Hydr-" comes from the Greek word "hydor" (ὕδωρ), meaning "water". It is used in medical terminology to refer to fluids or water-related conditions.

2. "-Encephaly" comes from the Greek word "enkephalos" (ἐγκέφαλος), which means "brain". It is a common suffix used in medical terms to refer to conditions or abnormalities related to the brain.

Therefore, the compound word "Hydranencephaly" combines these two roots to describe a condition characterized by the absence or severe underdevelopment of the cerebral hemispheres, which are replaced by sacs filled with cerebrospinal fluid.