phocomelia (Meaning)
phocomelia (n)
an abnormality of development in which the upper part of an arm or leg is missing so the hands or feet are attached to the body like stumps; rare condition that results from taking thalidomide during pregnancy
Synonyms & Antonyms of phocomelia
No Synonyms and anytonyms found
phocomelia Sentence Examples
- The rare birth defect phocomelia causes the absence or underdevelopment of limbs, giving affected individuals a seal-like appearance.
- The thalidomide tragedy resulted in thousands of cases of phocomelia worldwide, leading to severe physical and psychological consequences.
- Scientists are still investigating the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of phocomelia.
- Phocomelia can occur spontaneously or be caused by prenatal exposure to certain medications, infections, or environmental toxins.
- The severity of phocomelia varies from mild, affecting only one or two limbs, to severe, leading to the absence of all four limbs.
- Individuals with phocomelia often require specialized medical care, prosthetics, and assistive devices to navigate their environment.
- Despite the physical challenges posed by phocomelia, many individuals with the condition live fulfilling and active lives.
- The Phocomelia Foundation provides support, advocacy, and information to individuals and families affected by the condition.
- Research into the causes and treatment of phocomelia is ongoing, with the hope of improving outcomes for affected individuals.
- The term "phocomelia" comes from the Greek words "phoke" (seal) and "melos" (limb), referring to the characteristic seal-like appearance of affected individuals.
FAQs About the word phocomelia
an abnormality of development in which the upper part of an arm or leg is missing so the hands or feet are attached to the body like stumps; rare condition that
No synonyms found.
No antonyms found.
The rare birth defect phocomelia causes the absence or underdevelopment of limbs, giving affected individuals a seal-like appearance.
The thalidomide tragedy resulted in thousands of cases of phocomelia worldwide, leading to severe physical and psychological consequences.
Scientists are still investigating the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of phocomelia.
Phocomelia can occur spontaneously or be caused by prenatal exposure to certain medications, infections, or environmental toxins.
