Definition

A medical condition where a normal body opening or passage is absent or closed, which can affect areas like the anus, intestine, or ear canal.

Example

The baby was diagnosed with atresia, requiring immediate medical attention to address the closure of the intestinal passage.

Conversation

Have you heard about the condition called atresia?

No, what is it?

It's when there’s an absence or closure of a normal body passage, like the intestines.

That sounds really serious; I hope people get the help they need.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Atresia is derived from the Greek roots "a-" (meaning without) and "tresis" (meaning perforation or opening). The term describes a condition characterized by the absence of a normal opening or passage in the body.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('a-') and 'opening' ('tresis') to remember that atresia refers to a condition where there is no opening.

Visually Confused Words