Dysmelia

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Dysmelia

Dysmelia (pronounced dis-mee-lee-uh) is a term used in the medical field to describe a variety of congenital limb malformations. The word originates from the Greek words "dys" meaning bad or difficult, and "melia" meaning limb.

Definition

Dysmelia is a congenital disorder characterized by the absence or malformation of one or more limbs. This can include both the upper and lower limbs, and can range from minor deformities to the complete absence of a limb. Dysmelia can occur as a result of genetic factors, environmental factors, or a combination of both.

Types of Dysmelia

There are several types of dysmelia, including:

  • Phocomelia: This is a severe form of dysmelia where the arms or legs are extremely shortened or absent, with the hands or feet attached directly to the body.
  • Amelia: This is a type of dysmelia where one or more limbs are completely absent.
  • Meromelia: This is a type of dysmelia where a part of a limb is missing.

Causes

The causes of dysmelia are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some cases of dysmelia have been linked to the use of certain drugs during pregnancy, such as thalidomide, which was used to treat morning sickness in the 1950s and 1960s.

Treatment

Treatment for dysmelia depends on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of the individual. This can include physical therapy, prosthetics, and in some cases, surgery.

Related Terms

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