myelogram
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A diagnostic medical image, specifically an X-ray film or image series, produced during a myelography procedure. It visualizes the spinal cord, spinal nerve roots, and the subarachnoid space (the fluid-filled space surrounding the spinal cord) after the injection of a contrast dye.
Usage
A myelogram is used to detect abnormalities affecting the spinal cord, nerve roots, and the surrounding spaces, such as herniated discs, tumors, or spinal stenosis. - The neurologist ordered a myelogram to investigate the cause of the patient's persistent back pain and leg weakness. - The myelogram clearly showed a compression of the nerve root at the L4-L5 level.
Advanced Usage
- Digital myelogram: Refers to a myelogram where the images are captured and stored digitally rather than on traditional X-ray film.
- The digital myelogram allowed for easier sharing of images with the consulting neurosurgeon.
- CT myelogram: A computed tomography (CT) scan performed immediately after the myelography procedure, providing highly detailed cross-sectional images.
- For a more precise view, the doctor recommended a CT myelogram over a standard one.
Variants and Related Words
- Myelography (noun): The diagnostic procedure or technique of taking a myelogram.
- Myelography involves injecting a contrast agent into the spinal canal.
- Myelographic (adjective): Relating to or obtained by myelography.
- The myelographic findings were consistent with a diagnosis of arachnoiditis.
Synonyms
- Spinal contrast study: A general term for imaging procedures using contrast dye to view the spinal structures.
- Myelographic image/study: A more technical synonym often used in medical reports.
Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs)
- Contrast medium/dye: The substance injected to make structures visible on the myelogram.
- Subarachnoid space: The specific anatomical area visualized in a myelogram.
- Radiculopathy: A condition often diagnosed with the help of a myelogram, involving dysfunction of a spinal nerve root.
Noun
- X-ray film of the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots and subarachnoid space