Final answer:
The term myelocele refers to the herniation of the spinal cord, which is a type of pathology similar to types of spina bifida, such as meningocele and myelomeningocele, involving the protrusion of the meninges and possibly the spinal nerves.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term myelocele refers to the herniation of the spinal cord. Based on the context provided, we come to understand that myelocele could logically be inferred as a type of spina bifida where there is a malformation of the spinal cord and the spine. Spina bifida is classified into different types, including spina bifida occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. While occulta is the mildest form and may not present noticeable symptoms as it does not typically affect the spinal cord itself, meningocele and myelomeningocele both involve herniation.
In meningocele, the meninges herniate through a defect in the vertebral column without necessarily involving the nerves, potentially leading to few symptoms but possible complications. In myelomeningocele, both the meninges and the spinal nerves are involved, thereby often resulting in severe neurological symptoms. While the term myelocele isn't explicitly described in the provided references, we can deduce that it relates to a similar pathology involving the spinal elements, likely touching upon the protrusion of the spinal tissues.
When considering the herniation of the nucleus pulposus from a herniated intervertebral disc and the fact that 'myel' refers to the white matter of the spinal cord, as in myelencephalon connected to the medulla, we can conclude that myelocele would refer to the herniation of the spinal cord tissue. This is supported by the evidence that 'myel' is used in anatomical terms to denote the spinal cord or bone marrow, and 'cele' denotes a swelling or herniation.