Ankylocheilia

/ˌæŋkɪloʊˈkaɪliə/ noun

Definition

A medical condition characterized by the abnormal adhesion or fusion of the lips, causing them to be permanently stuck together or severely restricted in movement.

Etymology

From Greek "ankylos" (stiff, fused) and "cheilos" or "cheilia" (lip). This medical term follows Greek anatomical naming conventions combining roots for stiffness and lip structures.

Kelly Says

While ankylocheilia is rare, it reveals something fascinating about how your body heals—sometimes scar tissue forms in such a way that it literally glues lips shut, showing how aggressively your immune system can try to close wounds.

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