Rachischisis (Noun)
Meaning
A not uncommon congenital defect in which a vertebra is malformed; unless several vertebrae are affected or there is myelomeningocele there are few symptoms; can be diagnosed by amniocentesis.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- The ultrasound revealed a case of rachischisis, a congenital defect that would require close monitoring throughout the pregnancy.
- Rachischisis is a type of spina bifida that occurs when a vertebra is malformed, but in mild cases, symptoms may not be apparent.
- The doctor explained that the rachischisis was isolated to a single vertebra and that the baby was unlikely to experience any significant health issues.
- Prenatal testing, including amniocentesis, can detect rachischisis, allowing parents to prepare for the birth of a child with this condition.
- In some cases of rachischisis, the spinal cord may protrude through the opening in the vertebra, leading to more severe symptoms and complications.