Etymed
encephalocele
Definition
A congenital defect where brain tissue and membranes protrude through a skull opening
Clinical context
A 24-year-old woman presents with a painless mass on her scalp that has been present since birth. Physical examination reveals a soft, fluctuant mass in the occipital region with normal skin overlying it. CT scan shows a sac-like lesion containing brain tissue through a skull defect. The patient has no neurological deficits but has had recurrent sinus infections.
Mnemonic
ENCEPHALOCELE - 'Encephalo' brain + 'cele' like a hernia - brain tissue protruding through skull defect
These morphemes also unlock…
- encephal/o — brain
- -cele — hernia; swelling