How Do You Spell EXOSTOSIS?

1. Exostosis is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal and excessive growth of bony projections or outgrowths on the surface of bones. These bony growths, known as exostoses, can occur in various parts of the body, including the skeleton, particularly in joints. They can develop on bones within the ear canal (known as external auditory canal exostosis) or in the mouth (oral exostosis). Exostoses are typically benign and can vary in size and shape.

   The exact cause of exostosis is not always clear, but factors such as genetics, trauma, and chronic irritation or pressure on the bones are believed to contribute to their development. These bony growths can be asymptomatic or may cause discomfort, pain, or difficulty in performing certain movements, depending on their location and size. In some cases, exostoses may also impede bodily functions by affecting nearby structures or organs.

   Diagnosis of exostosis usually involves a thorough physical examination coupled with medical imaging techniques such as X-rays or CT scans. Treatment for exostosis is primarily focused on alleviating symptoms and reducing any functional limitations. Conservative measures include pain management through medication or physical therapy. Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases where exostoses are particularly large, causing severe symptoms, or impacting vital structures. Surgery aims to remove the bony outgrowth and restore normal function and mobility.

   Overall, exostosis is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of bony projections on the surface of bones, often causing discomfort or functional impairments.

2. A bony tumor springing from the surface of a bone, most commonly in the form of ossification of muscular attachments.

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

3. In anat., an unnatural projection or growth from a bone; in bot., a wart-like excrescence.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for EXOSTOSIS

The word "exostosis" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots.

The first root is "exo", which means "outside" or "external". This prefix is commonly used in medical terminology to denote that something is located outside or on the surface of something else.

The second root is "osteon", which means "bone" in Greek. This root is also found in other medical terms related to bone, such as "osteoporosis" (porous bones) and "osteotomy" (surgical cutting of a bone).

When these two Greek roots are combined, "exostosis" literally means "a bony growth or projection on the outer surface of a bone". This term is commonly used in medical contexts to refer to the abnormal growth of bone tissue, often caused by factors such as trauma or inflammation.

Similar spelling words for EXOSTOSIS

Plural form of EXOSTOSIS is EXOSTOSES