Epispadias

/ˌɛpɪˈspeɪdiəs/ noun

Definition

A congenital condition affecting males where the opening of the urethra is positioned on the upper surface of the penis instead of at the tip.

Etymology

From Greek epi- 'upon' + spadon 'cleft/split,' used in medical Latin as -ias (feminine nominative ending). Formalized in 18th-century medical textbooks.

Kelly Says

Epispadia exists on a spectrum with exstrophy (where the bladder itself is exposed)—together they reveal how early embryonic development in the genital region is surprisingly vulnerable, but fortunately correctable!

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