Pathology · Nervous System · Hard

Tabes

Meaning: Degeneration of the dorsal columns of the spinal cord in late neurosyphilis.

In practice: Loss of joint position sense, a stamping gait and lightning pains result; the full name adds 'dorsalis'.

Quick check

Two questions on related pathology words.

Which word means: Germ cell tumour containing tissue from all three embryonic layers, such as hair, fat and teeth.

Which word means: A life-threatening condition of inadequate tissue perfusion, causing organ failure.

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