SYMPHALANGISM Meaning and
Definition
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Symphalangism is a medical term referring to a rare congenital condition characterized by the fusion or lack of mobility of certain bones in the fingers or toes. Specifically, it involves the fusion of the jointed bones known as phalanges within the digits. The term "symphalangism" is derived from the Greek words "syn," meaning together, and "phalanx," referring to a row of finger or toe bones.
In individuals with symphalangism, there is a loss of joint mobility due to either the presence of bony connections between adjacent phalanges or the absence of joints altogether. This fusion can affect one or more fingers or toes and can vary in severity from partial fusion to complete absence of separate joints.
Symphalangism is typically a rare genetic disorder, often inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, although sporadic cases can also occur. It has been associated with several specific gene mutations.
The condition can cause significant functional limitations, impacting the affected individual's ability to perform fine motor tasks, grasp objects, walk, or engage in activities that require manual dexterity or flexibility in the toes. Treatment options for symphalangism may include surgical intervention to release or separate the fused bones, physical therapy to improve function and mobility, or the use of assistive devices to compensate for the lack of joint mobility.
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1. Syndactylism. 2. Ankylosis of the finger- or toe-joints.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SYMPHALANGISM
- symphalangus
- aymphalangism
- zymphalangism
- xymphalangism
- dymphalangism
- eymphalangism
- wymphalangism
- stmphalangism
- sgmphalangism
- shmphalangism
- sumphalangism
- s7mphalangism
- s6mphalangism
- synphalangism
- sykphalangism
- syjphalangism
- symohalangism
- symlhalangism
- sym-halangism
- sym0halangism
Etymology of SYMPHALANGISM
The word "symphalangism" is derived from the combination of two Greek terms: "syn" (σύν), meaning "together", and "phalanx" (φάλαγξ), which refers to a formation of soldiers standing closely together in a row. Additionally, the suffix "-ism" indicates a condition or state. Thus, etymologically, "symphalangism" refers to a condition where the phalanges (the bones of the fingers or toes) are fused or joined together.
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