Hemiatrophy
Hemiatrophy (pronounced: hee-mee-uh-troh-fee) is a medical condition characterized by the shrinkage or wasting away of one side of the body. The term is derived from the Greek words hemi meaning "half" and atrophy meaning "wasting away".
Definition
Hemiatrophy refers to a condition where one half of the body, or part of one half, is smaller than the other. This can be due to a decrease in the size of the cells, a decrease in the number of cells, or a combination of both. Hemiatrophy can affect any part of the body, including the face, limbs, and torso.
Causes
The causes of hemiatrophy are varied and can include neurological disorders, genetic disorders, and infections. In some cases, the cause of hemiatrophy is unknown.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hemiatrophy can vary depending on the part of the body affected. Common symptoms can include a noticeable difference in size between the two sides of the body, weakness on one side of the body, and difficulty with coordination.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hemiatrophy typically involves a physical examination and medical history. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Treatment
Treatment for hemiatrophy is typically focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hemiatrophy
- Wikipedia's article - Hemiatrophy
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