HYDROCEPHALIC IDIOCY Meaning and
Definition
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Hydrocephalic idiocy refers to a condition characterized by both hydrocephalus (an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain) and idiocy (a severe intellectual disability).
Hydrocephalus occurs when there is an imbalance between the production and drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. It can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to various factors such as infection, tumor, or trauma. In hydrocephalus, the excessive CSF accumulation causes the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces) in the brain to expand, exerting pressure on the surrounding brain tissue. This can lead to various neurological symptoms, such as cognitive impairments, motor deficits, and physical abnormalities.
Idiocy, on the other hand, refers to a severe intellectual disability that manifests early in life and is characterized by significant limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive behaviors. Individuals with idiocy may have difficulties with communication, learning, problem-solving, and daily activities.
When hydrocephalus and idiocy coexist, the term hydrocephalic idiocy is used to describe the specific condition. It implies that the individual has both the physical abnormalities associated with hydrocephalus and the impaired cognitive abilities seen in idiocy.
Treatment for hydrocephalic idiocy typically involves surgical intervention to alleviate the pressure caused by the excess CSF. However, the intellectual disabilities associated with idiocy may require additional support and therapies to maximize and promote the individual's functioning and quality of life.
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I. Associated with chronic hydrocephalus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYDROCEPHALIC IDIOCY
- hydrocephalic idiocq
- hydrocephalic idiocx
- h ydrocephalic idiocy
- hy drocephalic idiocy
- hyd rocephalic idiocy
- hydr ocephalic idiocy
- hydro cephalic idiocy
- hydroc ephalic idiocy
- hydroceph alic idiocy
- hydrocepha lic idiocy
- hydrocephal ic idiocy
- hydrocephali c idiocy
- hydrocephalic i diocy
- hydrocephalic id iocy
- hydrocephalic idi ocy
- hydrocephalic idio cy
- hydrocephalic idioc y
Etymology of HYDROCEPHALIC IDIOCY
The term "hydrocephalic idiocy" encompasses two main components: "hydrocephalic" and "idiocy".
1. "Hydrocephalic" comes from the Greek roots "hydro" meaning "water" and "cephalic" meaning "relating to the head". The word "hydrocephalic" refers to a medical condition called hydrocephalus, which is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the cavities of the brain. This condition leads to an enlarged head and can cause various neurological impairments.
2. "Idiocy" is derived from the Greek word "idios" meaning "one's own" or "private". It was used historically to describe individuals with severe intellectual disabilities or mental retardation. The term gradually fell out of use as it became regarded as offensive and stigmatizing. Today, it is considered an outdated and derogatory term.
