CERVICAL TABES Meaning and
Definition
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Cervical tabes is a medical condition that refers to the degeneration of the cervical spinal cord, specifically affecting the posterior columns. The term "tabes" is derived from Latin, meaning "wasting" or "wasting away." This condition is usually associated with neurosyphilis, a late-stage manifestation of syphilis infection. However, cervical tabes can also occur due to other neurodegenerative disorders or vitamin deficiencies like pernicious anemia.
The degeneration of the cervical spinal cord results in various symptoms and complications. Common manifestations include impaired proprioception (body position sense), loss of coordination, muscle weakness or atrophy, and sensory abnormalities such as tingling or numbness in the extremities. These symptoms typically start in the lower limbs and gradually progress to the upper body, eventually affecting the cervical region.
The diagnosis of cervical tabes involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid analysis may also be used to aid in the diagnosis. Treatment usually focuses on managing the underlying cause, such as antibiotics for syphilis or vitamin supplementation for nutritional deficiencies, in addition to symptomatic relief with medications aimed at reducing pain and improving nerve function.
Overall, cervical tabes is a degenerative condition of the cervical spinal cord that leads to various neurological symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause are crucial for managing this condition effectively and preventing further deterioration of the nervous system.
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A form of t. dorsalis in which the upper extremities are first affected.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CERVICAL TABES
- cervical tabas
- cervical tabgs
- cervical tabe3
- cervical tabec
- cervical tabeq
- cervical taber
- cervicaltabees
- c ervical tabes
- ce rvical tabes
- cer vical tabes
- cerv ical tabes
- cervi cal tabes
- cervic al tabes
- cervica l tabes
- cervical t abes
- cervical ta bes
- cervical tab es
- cervical tabe s
Etymology of CERVICAL TABES
The word "cervical" comes from the Latin word "cervix" meaning "neck". The word "tabes" also has Latin origins, derived from "tabēs" meaning "wasting away" or "decay".
"Cervical tabes" is a medical term used to describe a neurologic condition called tabes dorsalis, which is a late manifestation of tertiary syphilis. The term "cervical" in this context refers to the involvement of the cervical (neck) region of the spinal cord in the disease. As for "tabes", it signifies the degeneration of the spinal cord due to the impact of syphilis.
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