anencephalic

Definition

Medical terminology describing the absence of a major portion of the brain, skull, and scalp—a rare and severe neural tube defect incompatible with long-term survival. It's one of those terms that makes medical students grateful for Latin roots that obscure the devastating reality. This condition represents a tragic developmental failure occurring very early in pregnancy.

Example Usage

The prenatal ultrasound revealed anencephalic features, prompting the medical team to have a difficult conversation with the expectant parents about their options.

Source: Medical terminology

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