How Do You Spell COMPRESSION MYELITIS?

1. Compression myelitis, also known as compressive myelopathy or spinal cord compression, is a medical condition characterized by the compression or narrowing of the spinal cord. It refers to the impingement or pressure on the spinal cord, which can lead to damage and subsequent dysfunction of the nervous tissue within it.

   Compression myelitis can occur due to various causes, including spinal injuries, degenerative changes in the spine, spinal tumors, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or other conditions that can lead to the compression of the spinal cord. The compression can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, weakness, numbness or tingling sensations, difficulty with coordination and balance, and problems with bowel and bladder control.

   Prompt diagnosis and treatment of compression myelitis are crucial to prevent further deterioration and disability. The treatment approach may depend on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. Conservative treatment options include physical therapy, pain management, and medication to reduce inflammation. However, in more severe cases or when conservative treatments are not effective, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve the compression on the spinal cord.

   Timely intervention and management of compression myelitis are essential to minimize the risk of permanent damage and maximize the chances of recovery. It is important for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of compression myelitis to seek medical attention promptly to receive a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

2. Chronic inflammation, or simple atrophy, of the spinal cord due to pressure by a tumor, hemorrhage, meningeal thickening, or angular curvature of the spine.

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

Common Misspellings for COMPRESSION MYELITIS

The word "compression myelitis" can be broken down into two parts: "compression" and "myelitis".

The term "compression" comes from the Latin word "comprimere", which means "to press or squeeze together". It refers to the action of applying pressure or constriction to something. In the context of medicine, compression refers to external pressure on a body part, which can cause inflammation, restricted blood flow, and damage to the tissues.

The term "myelitis" also has its root in Latin, derived from the word "medulla", meaning "marrow" or "spinal cord". "Myelitis" refers to the inflammation of the spinal cord, specifically the gray matter within it.

Therefore, "compression myelitis" is a medical term that describes inflammation of the spinal cord resulting from compression or pressure applied to it, which can lead to various impairments and neurological symptoms.