CRANIOTABES Meaning and
Definition
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Craniotabes is a medical condition characterized by softening of the skull bones in infants. The term is derived from two Greek words, "kranion" meaning skull and "tabes" meaning softening. It is primarily observed in newborns and infants, and is commonly associated with nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin D deficiency.
In this condition, the skull becomes abnormally soft due to the impaired formation and mineralization of bone tissue. It typically manifests as a depression or flattening of the cranial bones, especially along the sagittal suture (the line that runs from the front to the back of the skull) and the fontanelles (soft spots), which may be wider and more palpable than usual. These physical abnormalities can be detected through physical examination of the infant's head.
Craniotabes is often linked to inadequate exposure to sunlight, low consumption of vitamin D-rich foods, or impaired absorption of vitamin D from the gastrointestinal tract. Other risk factors include premature birth, maternal vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy, and certain medical conditions that affect calcium metabolism.
The treatment for craniotabes primarily involves addressing the underlying cause, such as improving nutrition and ensuring sufficient vitamin D intake. Supplemental vitamin D may be prescribed by a healthcare provider if deficiency is confirmed. Regular follow-up is necessary to monitor the progress and resolution of the condition.
If left untreated, craniotabes may lead to complications like delayed closure of fontanelles, abnormal skull growth, and potential neurological issues.
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Circumscribed craniomalacia; a disease marked by the presence of areas of thinning and softening in the bones of the skull, usually of syphilitic or rachitic origin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CRANIOTABES
- xraniotabes
- vraniotabes
- franiotabes
- draniotabes
- ceaniotabes
- cdaniotabes
- cfaniotabes
- ctaniotabes
- c5aniotabes
- c4aniotabes
- crzniotabes
- crsniotabes
- crwniotabes
- crqniotabes
- crabiotabes
- cramiotabes
- crajiotabes
- crahiotabes
- cranuotabes
- cranjotabes
Etymology of CRANIOTABES
The word "craniotabes" is derived from two Greek roots: "kranion" meaning "skull" and "tabes" meaning "a wasting away" or "a softening". "Craniotabes" is a medical term used to describe a condition in which the bones of the skull become softened or fragile.
Similar spelling words for CRANIOTABES
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