ACROCEPHALIA Meaning and
Definition
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Acrocephalia is a term originating from the Greek words "akros" meaning "high" and "kephalē" meaning "head". It is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal shape of the skull in which the top or upper portion of the head appears excessively high or peaked. Also known as tower skull, conical skull, or oxycephaly, it is a type of craniosynostosis, a condition in which the sutures between the bones of the skull close prematurely.
In individuals with acrocephalia, the sagittal suture, which runs along the top of the skull from front to back, fuses prematurely, causing the head to grow in a cone-like or tower-like shape. This abnormality can lead to various complications including pressure on the brain, potential vision problems, developmental delays, and cognitive impairments.
The exact cause of acrocephalia is still not fully understood, but it is thought to be primarily genetic in nature. Certain genetic mutations and inherited syndromes have been associated with an increased risk of acrocephalia. Prenatal exposures to certain medications or substances, as well as maternal illnesses or infections during pregnancy, may also contribute.
Treatment for acrocephalia usually involves surgical intervention to correct the skull shape, relieve pressure on the brain, and allow for normal growth and development. The specific surgical procedures vary depending on the severity of the condition and the age of the affected individual. In some cases, additional therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy may be recommended to address associated developmental delays or impairments. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure optimal outcomes for individuals with acrocephalia.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ACROCEPHALIA
- acrocephally
- acrocephalyy
- acrocephalic
- accrocephalic
- zcrocephalia
- scrocephalia
- wcrocephalia
- qcrocephalia
- axrocephalia
- avrocephalia
- afrocephalia
- adrocephalia
- aceocephalia
- acdocephalia
- acfocephalia
- actocephalia
- ac5ocephalia
- ac4ocephalia
- acricephalia
- acrkcephalia
Etymology of ACROCEPHALIA
The term "acrocephalia" is derived from two Greek words: "acros", meaning "extreme", and "kephalē", meaning "head". When combined, the word "acrocephalia" literally translates to "extreme head", which is a condition characterized by abnormal shape or development of the skull.
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